Exercise to cope with leukaemia

[KnitEatCrochetRepeat]

Hi all,

Another question from me about your experiences. I'm hoping to do a video about experiences of using exercise to cope with a blood cancer journey, whatever stage of the journey you might be at.

Would anyone mind sharing their experiences about this? You wouldn't have to be in the video if you prefer (even better if you do want to be in it!), I could just read out your story anonymously as an example. I currently have a local health professional coming in to discuss the benefits of exercise as a cancer patient, but I would really love to supplement this with a story of someone who has seen the benefits.

You can direct message if you prefer, or email me at [e-mail].

Thanks!

Charlotte

[2003UK]

Hi Charlotte, sorry I have been so slow to reply. I think exercise can take many forms and just getting out in the fresh air and walking is so important, it is what our bodies are meant to do, and it is vital for my lungs, bones, muscles and skin and wellbeing as I always interact with other people. I also wear my Walkman with my music playing in my head .Exercise is so important as it stops me living in my head with my fears, thoughts and feelings whizzing around. I go to the gym and I use mostly cardiac equipment to keep my heart working healthily and it also strengthens my leg and arm muscles. However I prefer group exercise and I am a pilates girl and it has really improved my core muscles, posture and strength. As I also have osteoporosis this is vital to me. I also love my Zumba classes and I don't care what I look like and again it improves my posture, core strength, energy and muscles. The gym also means I have a social life there and as they say laughter is the best medicine.

[KnitEatCrochetRepeat in reply to 2003UK]

Hi,

No problem, it's been a popular topic in private messages, thank you for sharing your experiences in public. I like that you mention the many different aspects of your life that exercising can help with; it obviously helps your overall fitness but also importantly your social life. I also love a bit of pilates and Zumba!

I'm hoping to video/record people sharing their experiences of how exercise helps them cope with their illness, let me know if you're interested.

Best wishes.

[2003UK in reply to KnitEatCrochetRepeat]

Hi Charlotte, thanks for your response, yes, I would be happy to video/record. Take care and thanks for all you and everyone at Leukaemia Care are doing. I have been videoed before by Leukaemia Care so you might wish to go with someone who has not for a fresh face and that's fine by me, I won't sulk.

[littledab in reply to KnitEatCrochetRepeat]

Hi, i think exercise is very therapeutic, i used to do Zumba all the time was very fit person, till i got diagnosed with CLL blood cancer 2016, i don’t have the energy like i used to, but i really try, walking 🚶‍♀️ yoga, dancing 💃.. all are great for the mind and soul!! We have blood cancer but thAt is not going to stop 🛑 me from who we are!! Much stronger than the C word!!

God bless

Xo

Littledab

[ColX-UK]

Hi CharlotteLCare

I have CML and have had a mixed experience with exercise since diagnosis in July 2016.

I get short of breath quite often so running is difficult. Have also found that yoga can hurt my joints, eg wrists, and inversions can make me feel nauseous.

On the plus side golf and walking are good, especially as they are outside in the fresh air.

[JigFettler]

I have CLL. Previously fit, vigorous and a ton of stamina. Eroded by CLL WnW. I employed a good PT and worked my fitness. Fit and stronger after 6 mths of FCR chemo! Now at 3 months post chemo Feel liken did 5 years ago I have invested heavily in my PTrainer. I believe it's been massively helpful to body and mind.

I am happy to share in detail.

Best wishes

Jig