Zest

I signed up for active steps to try and get my confidence back with exercise after having breast cancer. I nearly didn’t turn up on the first day as I wasn’t sure what to expect. Well, I can safely say it was one of the best decisions I have made! This group is the therapy I didn’t know I needed!! I felt welcome and part of the group from the moment I walked through the door. I have met some of the most inspirational people who now I would definitely call friends. Active steps gave us the space and opportunity to chat, laugh, sometimes cry (usually me!) all while gaining confidence with exercise. I really can’t express how much it has helped me ❤️

— Naomi Moody

“After six months of being in and out of hospital for intensive chemotherapy for acute leukaemia, I was very debilitated. I hated feeling so weak but had no idea how to begin with any sort of rehabilitation.
Joining this group has felt like my salvation — being able to start from such a low bar, with a trainer who has lived experience of a similar situation, who is so supportive of small gains, and with fellow participants who are all an inspiration.
Over six weeks we have all made progress, not just in strength, mobility, balance and stamina, but also in our confidence. This is more than an exercise class; it is an opportunity to feel less alone in what can seem like a very lonely journey.
I do not believe I would have found exactly what I needed to motivate my physical recovery anywhere else.”

— Judith Short

Being part of this group has lifted a cloud for me, such an inspiring supportive space in my recovery journey xxxx

— Caroline Brookfield

I am grateful for this exercise class. Each one of us has faced cancer and experienced the debilitating treatment that has weakened us. This class is enabling us to build physical strength as well as sharing friendship with each other that enables us to see a future beyond this disease.

— Kathryn Newton

I am so thankful for this group after two years of ongoing cancer treatment it’s finally something I can attend that I can actually achieve and improve ! Trying to build strength and fitness through cancer treatment is so difficult and Jo makes it so much easier and more accessible by building up steps gradually. With a mixture of hard work, companionship and humour this group is an absolute lifeline and step on the road to fitness through cancer treatment and beyond.

— Charlotte Rowlands

Prior to active steps, I felt quite isolated & alone having been hospitalised & then housebound for nearly 2 years. I was seeking a group activity but my physical limitations made this challenging.
Jo believed in me & the opportunity to join this amazing group. Our shared challenges brought strength, being in this together. The compassionate connection created a much needed space to get to know your body again. Active steps helped me grow physically & emotionally most importantly I’ve gained amazing new friends. I no longer feel lost & instead it feels wonderful to see everyone shine… including me Forever thankful x

— Michelle

I’m really surprised at how much fitter and stronger I ferl since joining the active steps programme. I was hesitant at first as hadn’t done any regular exercise for several years and thought it might too much but Jo broke everything down into manageable steps and my physical improvement has and I helped me mentally. Am sleeping better and able to deal with stress better. I think meeting the others in the group has aided my wellbeing. It’s a very welcoming group and a place where I feel accepted and understood. So good to meet the other course members. Everyone’s amazing ❤️😊✊

— Jude

The active step program has given me the confidence and motivation to start regular exercise. The group environment with people who have had similar experiences has been key to its success. I hope the program can continue on a long term

— Howard

About Weston Park Cancer Charity

One in two of us will face cancer at some point in our lives.

Directly or indirectly, we can all expect cancer to change everything for us one day, and when it does, Weston Park Cancer Charity is here to change everything too.

Its services, advice, therapies and support centre are for patients and the family and friends close to them, helping everyone affected to live with and beyond cancer.

The funds they raise also support vital, pioneering research and clinical trials led by the exceptional medical experts at Weston Park Cancer Centre. The charity aims to care in every sense for patients and family members, standing with them at every step, for free.