Pictured above: John Griffiths, Life Now participant
People living with cancer in WA will be able to access free, in-person or online courses, with the commencement of our Life Now Term 3 timetable in July 2022.
Our Life Now Coordinator, Jessamie Skinner, said the purpose of the Life Now Exercise and Meditation programs is to introduce exercise and meditation in a safe and supportive environment and to empower people to manage their own physical and mental wellbeing.
“Research has found that exercise is an effective medicine for people with cancer; people with cancer who exercise regularly have fewer and milder side effects from their treatments,” Ms Skinner said.
“These courses are offered to people who are affected by cancer and their primary carers”.
For 70-year-old Peel cancer patient and recent Life Now Exercise participant, John Griffiths, the Life Now Program helped him feel better both mentally and physically following his diagnosis.
“I was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2020 when I was 68 years old,” Mr Griffiths said.
“The exercise sessions through the Life Now courses were incredibly helpful with my recovery, and I now do regular workouts at the gym three times a week, as well as swim.
“I am so grateful to the team at Cancer Council WA whose professionalism and care was such a motivating part of my recovery.”
Ms Skinner said she is always delighted to hear such positive feedback from participants.
“We know through numerous studies that there are a range of benefits from participating in exercise and meditation, including improved wellbeing and reducing anxiety and stress, but it’s wonderful to hear first-hand from people like John, just how Life Now courses have improved their lives,” she said.
To apply, visit Life Now or call 13 11 20 to speak to a cancer nurse.
Eligibility criteria apply. Registrations are essential as spaces are limited.