When Sharon was undergoing cancer treatment, the last thing on her mind was the gym. But thanks to some encouragement from her nephew, Sharon found motivation, support (and a good cup of tea!) with a cancer rehab exercise class.

In 2021, I was diagnosed with Endometrial Cancer and underwent surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. The news – whilst devastating – literally changed my life.

“I knew I was amongst friends…”

My nephew, a cancer rehab instructor, encouraged me to attend his weekly class at the local gym. Gentle exercise, followed by tea, biscuits and a chance to chat with others. From the moment I walked in I knew I was amongst friends who understood exactly how I was feeling. They offered words of encouragement, alleviated my fears and turned tears into laughter. I even attended the class throughout my treatment as I suffered very few side effects, much to the amazement of my medical team.

More challenges

In 2024, during a routine scan, nodules were found in both my lungs and following further tests, it was confirmed as a Secondary Cancer. Alongside my treatment, it was recommended that I attend the gym twice a week; cardio to strengthen my lungs and weight training to strengthen my joints.

Again, I cannot underestimate the support received from my rehab family. Some days I used almost every piece of equipment to work off my aggression, while on other days conversations were had taking a gentle stroll on the treadmill.

Another pitch

My latest CT scan was in March, and showed no sign of cancer anywhere in the body. To celebrate, my nephew (Mark) invited me to Cancer Kickers Walking Football, a new weekly, low intensity walking football session led by Mark as the cancer rehabilitation practitioner and Victor/ Shaun from The Active Wellbeing Society. Having never kicked a ball in my life, I made it clear I was happy to attend but not to play.

I think I was most surprised to find myself fully involved in the game, walking around the pitch trying hard not to run. There was great team spirit and no pressure to do more than what felt comfortable. I can’t believe the following week I purchased my first pair of football boots!

While I am recovering from an injury, I am enjoying sitting on the sidelines watching the antics, joining in with the banter and enjoying a well-earned cup of tea, cake and chat. The Cancer Kickers Walking Football brings together people who understand each other’s experiences, gives them the space to be active at their own pace, and puts both physical and mental wellbeing at the heart of the game.

Through my cancer journey I have met some amazing people, become more active and learnt new skills. I have even documented my cancer experience in a series of light-hearted poems to hopefully bring about better understanding and raise a smile in the face of adversity.

The Cancer Kickers Walking Football session takes place on Wednesdays, 11am-1pm at Birmingham County FA HQ.