How exercise helped Michelle survive cancer
Michelle was 40 kilograms overweight and struggling to walk when she was diagnosed with cancer. The 64-year-old is now fitter than ever and cancer free, sharing her story and inspiring others.
Five years ago, Michelle was in pain and struggling to walk.
After a routine blood test and subsequent investigations, Michelle was diagnosed with cancer.
Today the 64-year-old Bupa customer says she’s more active than ever and embarking on a personal training course so she can help others on their journey to a healthier life.
Michelle’s sharing her story, in the hope of inspiring other people to take that first step, saying it feels like she has a new lease on life.
“Exercise completely changed my life,” Michelle said.
“A routine blood test in 2019 uncovered that I have chronic lymphoma, but I was also suffering from osteoarthritis, and I couldn't walk. I was too embarrassed to go out, I was 40 kilos overweight, and it was crushing my knees.”
“That’s the point when I told myself I had to keep going. I had to try because I didn't want cancer to take over my body.”
I had to try because I didn't want cancer to take over my body.
“I started with a personal trainer and followed their exercise and nutrition program religiously. The weight was starting to come down and I began being called the Gym Girl.”
“One of the other positive side effects of my new way of living was the boost in my mental health.”
“In 2021, in lockdown, I started having alarming symptoms and was diagnosed with colon cancer - that devastated me. Within three weeks I was on the operating table and had 30 centimetres of my colon removed. I was very lucky the cancer hadn’t spread.”
“As soon as I recovered, they wanted to start chemo to make 100% sure that it was gone. I used that time to keep going to the gym, the whole time I was on chemo. I just did what I could and then I’d go home and rest.”
I used that time to keep going to the gym, the whole time I was on chemo. I just did what I could and then I’d go home and rest.
“I’m now cancer-free and making the most of life. Exercise is in my blood now. It’s my passion and I want to help anyone around my age to see just how important movement is. Even increasing your steps can make a big difference.”
“It’s not too late. I started training at 60 and I'm the strongest I've ever been, and this week I’m starting a TAFE course in Personal Training,” she said.
Learn more about Michelle’s experience and find information on prevention, key checks and living with cancer on Blua.
