Karen’s Story

I’ve always loved being active, whether it’s netball, home workouts, or just getting out for a walk with my family. It’s always been a big part of my daily life but when I was diagnosed with bowel cancer in December 2023, I didn’t realise just how much keeping active would help me through some very difficult times.

The cancer diagnosis was a total shock. I didn’t have any symptoms, so hearing the news was surreal. Waiting for the biopsy results was incredibly hard, but keeping active helped me cope. I continued with my workouts and my daily walks. It gave me something to focus on and helped calm my mind.

After surgery to remove the tumour, the doctors encouraged me to get up and walk the very next day. That first walk felt like a huge step forward. From then on, I made it my goal to walk a little more each day. It gave me a sense of purpose and control. It also made me feel better mentally. My surgeon later said that being fit and active going into surgery, helped me recover quicker.

Then in February 2024, I found out I have Lynch Syndrome, a genetic condition that increases the risk of certain cancers. It was a lot to take in and process. Whilst all this was happening, my dad was fighting his own cancer battle. Sadly, he passed away in the March. The day after he died, I went for a long walk. It helped me start to process everything and gave me space to breathe.

Knowing I’m now at higher risk of certain cancers, I made staying active a priority. I went back to netball, started daily workouts, and even joined a women’s walking football group, which I love! It’s not just about the exercise though; the friendships, the fun and the feeling of being part of something is so important to me.

Then in June 2025, due to the higher risk of endometrial and ovarian cancer, I had a full hysterectomy. Once again, I used my activity levels as a benchmark for how well I was recovering. Walking every day really helped. I started slow and built up gradually. It helped me heal, lifted my mood, and gave me something to aim for. My surgeon was amazed at how quickly I recovered.

Setting goals like getting back to netball and walking football gave me something positive to focus on. Hitting these goals has felt amazing. Being active has helped me through some really tough times. It’s given me strength, hope and a way to keep moving forward.

If you’re facing your own cancer journey, or know someone who is, please remember that you’re not alone. Keeping active with a short walk, some gentle stretching or even a game of walking football, can really help your body and mind.