Paddy heads up cancer charity’s walking challenge

Cancer Focus Northern Ireland, the new name for the Ulster Cancer Foundation, has launched ‘Walking for Life’ in the Londonderry area – a new service for anyone who has been affected by cancer, whether currently undergoing, or having completed their cancer treatment.
By The Newsroom
Published 6th Aug 2012, 12:29 BST

This is a free service and family or friends are welcome. Walks will be starting in September and the first walks will be:

Strabane Canal Walk – Monday 10th September – evening; Ness Country Park – Saturday 15th September – morning; Sion Mills – Thursday 20th September - morning; Baypark, Londonderry – Wednesday 26th September - evening.

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Liz Atkinson, Head of Care Services, Cancer Focus, said, “Research shows that cancer patients who engage in moderate exercise while under-going treatment suffer less from the debilitating effects of fatigue.

“Fatigue is one of the most commonly reported symptoms affecting cancer patients and has the greatest impact on quality of life. It can lead to a reduction of mood, anxiety and in many cases depression. However regular gentle exercise during and after treatments has significantly been shown to improve well being.”

Local man Paddy Warren, who has just signed up to be a walking group leader, said: “I was diagnosed with prostate cancer seven years ago and since then I have received tremendous support from Cancer Focus through their prostate cancer support group which regularly meets at Altnagelvin Hospital.

“Many people have been so generous with their time in helping me through my diagnosis and treatment and now that I’m retired it is an ideal opportunity for me to give something back.

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“I recently started volunteering three days per week at the Cancer Focus charity shop in Shipquay Street and as a keen walker I’m looking forward to leading walking groups in the North West.

“I’ve been working with other walking group leaders from the area and staff from Cancer Focus to assess and develop new walks which will help build energy levels as well as take in some spectacular local scenery.

“The walks will not be demanding but enjoyable and most importantly convenient for people to access in the local area.

“I’m looking forward to meeting people who have been through a cancer diagnosis, their family and friends and I’m sure that there will be plenty of craic along the way!”

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Liz from Cancer Focus added, “Our free service follows a slow and progressive walking programme that allows the body to gradually rebuild its normal levels of fitness, helping you increase your confidence, stamina and energy levels.

“’Walking for Life’ is also ideal for anyone who has completed their treatment and we encourage participants to bring along a family member or friend. It is a great opportunity to meet new people and chat to others who are in a similar situation as well as enjoying the psychological and health benefits of exercising in the great outdoors.”

If you would like to take part in ‘Walking for Life’, please contact Morag Chambers on 028 9066 3281 or email [email protected]

For more information on Cancer Focus click on www.cancerfocusni.org or follow us on Facebook or Twitter @CancerFocusNI