General News
24 August, 2023
Free exercise program to support cancer patients
An exercise program aimed at helping people with cancer to self-manage their condition and boost their wellbeing is headed to Maryborough next month. Run by Maryborough District Heath Service (MDHS) in partnership with the Cancer Council, the free...
An exercise program aimed at helping people with cancer to self-manage their condition and boost their wellbeing is headed to Maryborough next month.
Run by Maryborough District Heath Service (MDHS) in partnership with the Cancer Council, the free, eight week program begins in September, open to anyone with a cancer diagnosis, undergoing treatment or who has completed treatment.
MDHS exercise physiologist Demi Tangey said the program runs once a week with 90 minutes sessions in a fun and supportive environment.
“The program aims to provide people on a cancer journey with the knowledge they need to help maintain their physical and social wellbeing,” she said.
“Past participants have described the program as brilliant. It covers topics such as healthy eating, physical activity and exercise, managing fatigue, emotions and wellness, bone and foot health, intimacy and more.
“Exercise is an excellent form of medicine — it is good for cancer patients and has many protective benefits before, during and after treatment.
“Exercise programs are tailored to meet individual needs. Benefits include improved quality of life, a reduction in the severity of treatment related side-effects such as fatigue, stress relief and an increase in survival rates.”
Family, friends and carers are also welcome to join.
Participants can self-refer to the program, or a referral can be provided by a medical professional. An assessment is required before starting the program.
For more information or to enrol call 5461-0333 (and press 1). Enrolments close on August 31.
The weekly sessions will take place at the health service’s Health and Movement Centre in Maryborough.