PEOPLE affected by cancer living in Hamilton and surrounding areas will have access to a free eight-week education, exercise and wellness program commencing on May 10, 2023.

Cancer Council Victoria’s Cancer Wellness and Exercise program provides people who have completed their cancer treatment with one-hour group fitness sessions delivered by experienced exercise specialists.

This is followed by a short education session each week.

Cancer Council Victoria’s head of cancer information and support services, Katherine Lane, said the program provided invaluable support and information for people recovering from cancer treatment.

“We often speak with people affected by cancer who share how challenging it is to return to their lives after their treatment ends. Finding a ‘new normal’ is physically and emotionally complex so we’re looking forward to continuing to support individuals impacted by cancer through the process,” she said.

Katherine said research showed exercise rehabilitation programs help cancer survivors manage pain, reduce fatigue and improve their quality of life.

“This program provides people affected by cancer with the tools to deal with the changes in their lives at home and at work, as well as the confidence to exercise and increase their strength and fitness,” she said.

On average, 135 people in the Southern Grampians Shire are diagnosed with cancer each year.

The program will take place at the Western District Health Service Allied Health Centre and will assist participants to increase their strength and fitness, improve their ability to perform daily tasks, learn strategies for managing fatigue and connect with others.

A previous participant said the program gave them the energy to complete day-to-day tasks.

“It showed me concrete things I can do to help myself. I’m grateful to have these kinds of programs for patients,” they said.

Another participant said – “It was a great benefit to both my physical and mental wellbeing. It increased my fitness and positive outlook.”

To register or for more information, please contact Samuel Burns at wdhs.intake@wdhs.net