Ellie’s story
“The boat is my happy place.”
Ellie found her breast cancer early, but after reconstructive surgery she was left with permanent pain. This was compounded upon by bouts of depression, which she has dealt with since her teens, as well as an unexpected heart attack. Getting involved in dragon boat paddling has helped with her recovery both socially and physically. By finding a group of people who’d been through similar circumstances and experiences, she’s not just found an activity she enjoys, but also an entire community of support.
How Ellie gets moving
Ellie mostly keeps active through dragon boat paddling, whether she’s doing warm-ups with the team or paddling in the water. The group she paddles with is entirely made up of other people affected by breast cancer, which provides both friendships and support. She also occasionally attends Pilates classes in her local cancer support centre, though she’ll skip these if she isn’t feeling too great.
Since we last spoke to Ellie, she has been diagnosed with osteoarthritis. Ellie is learning to adapt her activities to suit her multiple conditions. She has started aqua aerobics and says that “jumping in the pool is one of [her] favourite things”. She has even made a new group of friends in the classes, who often meet for coffee and a chat.
Trying new activities
You might just be starting to get active, or you might be looking to try something new. Either way, there are some things that might be helpful to bear in mind when you’re trying out a new way of moving.
Cancer
A cancer diagnosis can make things feel very uncertain and living with a long-term condition after your diagnosis is difficult. Being active before, during and after treatment can improve your outlook and help you manage your symptoms. Because it doesn’t matter whether it’s something small and new, or just that little bit more of something you already do. It all makes a difference.
Multiple Health Conditions
Living with two or more physical or mental health conditions can make day-to-day life unpredictable. Symptoms can flare up and juggling multiple medications and treatments, new diagnosis and recovery can be challenging. Making movement meaningful to you is the best way to start and stay active.
Find activities you enjoy
Being active doesn’t have to involve traditional ways of moving. You can find something that you genuinely enjoy doing and have tonnes of fun doing it. It’s easier to stay motivated when you move in a way that you enjoy.