You Go Girl!

She is one of those who does the hard work of getting healthy. A few years ago, her doctor told her she needed to lose weight, and start exercising and eating better. She did it; changed her eating habits and joined my Body & Soul Fitness class.

Last week, she was diagnosed with lung cancer. I really did not expect her to be back to exercise class. Wrong! Thursday morning, she was the first one there. She shared with our class why, now more than ever, she needs to stay strong for the battle ahead. Could exercise help her through cancer treatments?

Absolutely!

Karen Basen-Engguist, Ph.D., at MD Anderson’s Center for Energy Balance in Cancer Prevention and Survivorship wrote a recent article with these findings from The American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO).

“The science shows that exercising during cancer treatment eases fatigue, anxiety and depression while improving quality of life and physical function,” Basen-Engquist says. “Staying active helps patients continue engaging in the regular activities of daily life.”¹

Now we have another amazing benefit of exercise. These clinical trials also revealed that physical activity improves symptoms and side effects of radiation, chemotherapy and even helps in recovery from surgery with fewer complications.

As my courageous friend left class, she said, “There might come a day when I can’t do this but today is not that day!”

Her faith and determination is inspiring. 2 Timothy 1:7 says “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.”  NIV.

You go girl!

Vicki Heath is a certified fitness instructor for the American Council on Exercise, and a certified life coach. Vicki is author of the books My First Place , Don’t Quit Get Fit and Wellness Journey of a Lifetime . Vicki is passionate about Christ and has a desire to help others understand the value of caring for their bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit.