For recent Life Now Exercise participant and Winthrop resident, Karyn Shanahan, the Life Now Program has helped her regain strength and find an important sense of connection after her cancer diagnosis.
Karyn had previously experienced a small benign cyst in her breast, so when she discovered another lump, she assumed it was the same.
"I knew I had a higher risk because I had the BRCA2 gene, but I didn't really think it was cancer." Karen recalls.
After further tests and a biopsy, Karyn received a call from her GP confirming the diagnosis: It was stage two triple negative breast cancer.
Karyn underwent five months of intensive chemotherapy before making the difficult decision to have a double mastectomy.
During her recovery, Karyn heard about the free Life Now exercise course and decided to sign up.
"The course was life changing," she said. "I'd never really been to a gym before, but learning to use all the gym equipment and seeing the benefits of building up strength in different sets of muscles was great.
Research shows that regular exercise can help reduce the severity and frequency of treatment side effects, and Life Now is designed to ensure these benefits are accessible to all who need them.
Beyond the physical benefits, Karyn found herself surrounded by women who understood exactly what she was facing, many diagnosed with breast cancer, including some still undergoing treatment.
"That camaraderie was so important," she said.
It was really helpful to meet people who were going through similar experiences.
Designed to introduce mind-body practices in a safe and supportive environment. The Life Now program offers evidence-based physiological, psychological, and social support to people affected by cancer and their primary carers.
The courses help participants build physical strength, improve emotional wellbeing, and feel more confident managing their health.
Our Life Now Program offers free of charge introductory Exercise, Meditation, Mindfulness, Mindful Art, Tai Chi and Yoga courses at locations across Western Australia and online.
Applications are essential. Eligibility criteria apply.
