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Diving Back In: Cancer Rehab Is Changing Lives
Since the beginning of our Cancer Rehab programme, it’s been incredible to witness the power of rehabilitation and dedicated support, and sometimes, the most impactful stories come directly from those whose lives have been touched. We recently received a heartfelt message from one of our cancer rehab members that perfectly illustrates the positive outcomes our gym team, and specifically Sarah, can achieve:
“I would like to thank Sarah & her team at the YMCA for their help in getting me back to a hobby I never thought I’d be able to do again. At the age of 61, having undergone surgery on my knee and hand, and then receiving a cancer diagnosis of Chronic Lymphocytic Leukaemia, morale was low and walking was a struggle. I was convinced my scuba diving days were over! Sarah encouraged me to think otherwise, researching and arranging a rehabilitation programme to specifically target the goal of building up my strength to improve walking and ultimately target the goal of getting back to diving.
Knowing someone cared enough to make those efforts makes a difference. My strength has indeed grown and the efforts have paid off. I’ve just come back from a week of scuba diving in the Red Sea with a great group of dive friends, managing 14 dives over the week. Getting back to a hobby I love, with people I love, has been a massive shot in the arm for my confidence and well-being. That’s down to the efforts of Sarah and her team who encouraged me to set and achieve a goal I had previously given up on. I can’t praise them enough. Thank you.
Time to set a new goal and see if we can get there.”
This is a brilliant reminder of why we do what we do. Our team goes beyond providing fitness instruction, they work hard to create an environment of personalised support and encouragement. They empower individuals to set and achieve goals they once thought were out of reach, helping them rediscover passions and improve their quality of life.
Sarah, Deputy Gym Manager and Cancer Rehab Instructor said:
“I couldn’t be prouder of Ken and the team. Ken was told by the hospital team he wouldn’t be able to dive again due to his serious injuries and cancer diagnosis, but with a little bit of research and guidance, he overcame the impossible. This is really just one story of many. I am so proud of the gym team…Ken’s picture says it all.”
At YMCA Gym, we’re dedicated to improving the quality of life of those experiencing cancer, and showing that recovery is an active process with the help of specialist instructors. If you or someone you know could benefit from the programme, please visit our website to find out more, or alternatively, contact us at ymcagym@ymcanorthtyneside.org. You might be surprised at what you can achieve!
New Year, New Starters
As the New Year approaches, new January starters will come flooding through our gym doors. For some, it will be their first time stepping foot in a gym, for others it won’t be their first time restarting their fitness journey. Whatever their situation may be, it’s especially important to be kind, have empathy and welcome the new members into our gym community with encouraging smiles.
Get Ready for Gym At Home!
YMCA is now offering a new membership for those who like the flexibility of sweating it out at home.
New Outdoor Exercise Classes in North Shields
As of 29th March 2021, outdoor exercise is permitted as part of the Governments Road map out of lockdown. With this in mind, YMCA Gym has launched a number of fun and engaging outdoor classes in North Shields.
Workout to Help Out
During the pandemic we’ve all been advised to stay indoors and this has had a huge impact on our mental and physical health. With the support of the YMCA Gym team, we’re encouraging people to get involved with Workout to Help Out and get motivated again to help fight the risks of Covid-19.
GNR Virtual
Great North Run 2020 may have been cancelled, but if you’re still keen to grab your running gear and take on that 13.l mile dash… Great run have now made it possible to get involved and raise vital funds YMCA North Tyneside.
Age is just a Number
We have just celebrated one of our Group Exercise Instructors 80th Birthday! John has been a valued member of our Gym Team for over 15 years. He took over an already established Boxercise and Circuit class teaching every Tuesday and Thursday night and made it his own....