Cancer patients at East Suffolk and North Essex NHS Foundation Trust (ESNEFT) can now take part in free exercise classes to increase their strength and stamina and boost their confidence.
The sessions will support people before, during and after their cancer treatment. Four are available:
- Swimming sessions, which take place at Colchester Leisure World and Clacton Leisure Centre.
- General exercise groups, which are held at Colchester Leisure World, Clacton Leisure Centre, Harwich Park Pavilion, Jaywick Community Resource Centre and the Columbine Centre in Walton on the Naze.
- Exercises classes for breast cancer patients in the Ipswich and Felixstowe areas.
- Online pelvic floor exercise classes for men with prostate and bladder cancer.
Among those to take part in the swimming sessions in Colchester is Rob Muir (pictured), who was diagnosed with cancer in April and has since had his prostate removed.
Credit: David John Ward
“I used to be very active before my cancer diagnosis and loved to swim, run and cycle,” said Rob. “Taking part in the swimming sessions helps me to keep mentally positive. I’ve also been encouraged by meeting other friendly people who are in the same situation.
“Physical exercise gives me something to aim for and challenges me. It may be a small thing like adding a few more laps each time, but having goals has a big impact on my wellbeing. For me, exercising has also reduced the continence problems related to prostate cancer by at least 90%.
“I am determined to get my fitness levels back so that I can complete the Serpentine swim soon. I would encourage others living with cancer to keep trying and never give up.”
The exercise sessions are among a range of personalised support available through ESNEFT’s cancer wellbeing centres. Patients and their families can also access counselling, dietary advice, practice support, complementary therapies, specialist information and signposting.
Louise Smith, Macmillan deputy lead cancer nurse at ESNEFT, said: “Exercise is really important before, during and after treatment for cancer as it helps to support recovery and prevent recurrence.
“These free sessions will help to improve people’s stamina and strength, boost their mood and emotional wellbeing and help them to stay a healthy weight. We would encourage anyone who wants to find out more to get in touch.”
For more information or to book a place, contact Colchester Cancer Wellbeing Centre on 01206 745347 or email esneft.cancerwell-beingcentre@esneft.nhs.uk
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