Move More Taster Sessions at Witton Park

Moving More to Help Cope & Recover from the Negative Effects of Cancer

Cancer survivor, Gill Jackson of Blackburn, praises the work of the MacMillan Move More programme in the borough.

Gill, who was diagnosed with breast cancer about 8 years ago, talks about her process of recovery and rehabilitation since her years of treatment in Blackburn and Preston hospitals.

Gill told us that, “After my operation and all the treatment, I was left fatigued, depressed and had lost confidence. It is difficult to get back to normal when you have gone through so much. It puts strains and stresses not only on yourself, but on friends and family around you.

“On a visit to Pendleside Hospice, I picked up a leaflet about the MacMillan Move More programme and it seemed like the perfect option to help me get some confidence and fitness back.”

Kathryn Creech, local Move More Co-ordinator added, “Gill came to us and we helped her get back to the gym and try a range of activities including Water Walking sessions at Darwen Leisure Centre. People often lack confidence with the impact of cancer treatment and physical activity can help reduce fatigue; reduce anxiety; help to maintain a healthy weight; manage the side effects of treatment; reduce osteoporosis and helps to look after your heart.

“There is also a social aspect to the programme, which gives people confidence to get out and about again.”

The programme supports a whole range of activities including gym, walking, cycling, archery, spinning, swimming and even partycise classes.”

Gill added, “I would urge people to give the programme a go. Look at me! It's given me a new level of self-confidence to the point where I took part in the 24-hour Relay for Life in aid of Cancer Research. Without the support of the Move More programme I could not have imagined doing something so ambitious.”

Move More have created some taster sessions for people wanting to give the programme a trial. The first of these is a cycle session at Witton Park Cycling Centre on Saturday 1st July 10.00am – 12.00pm. The session is aimed at people who have had a cancer diagnosis at some point in their life. However, they can bring a friend too and the activity is for all abilities. There will be the opportunity to learn to ride, improve skills or just to use the bike around the park. The cost of the session is £1 and people need to book prior to attending. To book a place email kathryn.creech@blackburn.gov.uk or call 01254 585992.

Further “Dance for your Cuppa” sessions are also scheduled in Whalley (4th July) and Accrington (20th July) and more information can be found on the re:fresh Blackburn with Darwen Facebook Page www.facebook.com/refreshBlackburnwithDarwen/

More general information about the Move More programme can also be found on the re:fresh Blackburn with Darwen website www.refreshbwd.com/service/movemore/

Pictured Above Form Left to Right: Katherine Creech, Liz Beaumont and Gillian Jackson