Exercise!

[Elizabeth Allen]

I remember that right after my treatment ended, whenever I would go back to the clinic for checkups, my oncologist would ask me, "Now what have you been doing for exercise?" As I realize even more now that I'm older, staying healthy through exercise is really important for survivors especially; thanks to the chemo and other treatments we received, we are at a greater risk for many health conditions, including heart disease.

At the time, it was an exhausting question. Treatment had put me way out of shape; even climbing stairs made me tired. Before I was diagnosed, I played soccer enthusiastically, but not really doing anything physical for about a year and a half really affected that. Thanks to the persistence of my parents, though, I worked to get back on track.

It was a tough road. I started out slow, going for walks or riding the stationary bike to build up stamina. I played soccer recreationally, although not on the level I had before; I lost a lot of my skills because I hadn't played for so long, and my coordination had deteriorated. When I got to high school, I tried out for the soccer team, but was cut because I couldn't keep up on the six-mile run. Ironically, my parents pushed me to join the cross-country team instead, which I reluctantly did.

That first year was tough. I was the slowest on the team, almost always finishing last at our multiple-school meets. But as I progressed through high school, I slowly got back into shape. Running actually became fun! Don't get me wrong, I'm no super athlete or anything. But now, going to the gym or going out for a run on campus is enjoyable for me, and I'm happy knowing that I'm doing something good for my body. It took me awhile to get there, but I think I'm finally "in-shape."

I'd love to hear about other people's experiences with this issue, or thoughts in general!

[Natasha Bear]

I can totally relate! I played volleyball competitively and I tried to get back into it but since I had cancer in my leg, it wasnt really an option.  I guess I should start trying to get in shape! Thanks for this post!

[Lexi Chopp]

I definitely agree - I appreciate it so much more now.  My treatment was pretty rough on my body though, and my lungs don't function the way they should.  This makes it impossible for me to do anything that requires endurance which makes exercise really difficult.  My joints have suffered, as well, so anything impact related leaves me feeling like I'm 70 for the next few days. 

[Kane Weinberg]

When I was diagnosed, I was a senior in high school and I played football and basketball, so I was definitely in the best shape of my life then. Slowly but surely, though, I have started to regain my strength and endurance. I agree with both of you in that a person cherishes their health much more after going through an illness.

[Elizabeth Allen]

Exactly! Good health/being in shape is always much more appreciated than before =)

[Allison DeSoto]

Same thing happened to me!  I played soccer for ten years and had stopped playing about two years before I was diagnosed but I still kept in shape in other ways, but going through cancer made me so incredibly weak!  Like you though, I started out easy with walking in the park then slowly progressed on.  I'd like to say I'm in the best shape of my life, but I was extremely fit in soccer, so I'm in the second best shape of my life but I appreciate it more now than I did then. (;