Thursday 10 May 2012

Guest Blog: Fitness and Its Immense Benefits In Fighting Cancer

David Haas
I am delighted to welcome David Haas with his guest blog.  It's a sensitive but significant subject area being dealt with in this post; well worth absorbing if you, or someone close to you, is touched by cancer.   While I have no experience of cancer myself (personally or professionally) it does seem that we have something in common: the belief that staying in good shape helps us to remain more resilient through life's challenges.  In this article David talks the issue through but first of all, a little more about the man himself:

Joining the organization in 2011, David Haas is a cancer support group and awareness program advocate at the Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance. In addition to researching the many valuable programs available to our site’s visitors, David often blogs about programs and campaigns underway at the Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance, as well as creative fitness ideas for those dealing with cancer, while creating relationships with similar organizations.

Cancer is an ugly word that sends fear and panic through the minds of most who hear this word in a doctor's office. For those battling cancer, research indicates exercise is just what the doctor ordered to help fight this disease.

According to Rush University Medical Center,
exercise not only helps prevent chronic diseases such as cancer, it also helps those suffering from these conditions. Research shows those preparing for surgery or chemotherapy after any kind of cancer diagnosis, whether it is a blood cancer like Leukemia or rare lung cancer like mesothelioma, often fare better in surgery and recovery if they exercise regular prior to the operation. Exercise helps cancer patients stay alert and less tired while dealing with treatment.

In addition to the health benefits of exercise during the treatment process, the American Cancer Institute reports that cancer survivors can reduce the risk of their cancer returning or developing into secondary cancers by keeping active. 

While fitness is always important, anytime an illness strikes it is even more necessary to focus on healthy living. Naturally, dealing with such a powerful disease as cancer can knock the wind out of anyone's sails. Despite the instinct to curl up and hide under the covers, studies suggest exercise can prevent depression that often accompanies a serious illness such as cancer. 


So how can cancer patients best stay fit while fighting this dreadful disease? Here are some tips:

1. Take a long walk. Look at nature, experiencing the peaceful sounds of birds, pleasant aroma of fresh cut grass and the beauty that exists all around you. Bring some headphones and your favorite music along to truly enjoy the time alone. Bring a friend if you need to talk, laugh or just vent about the challenges you are facing.

2. Go for a swim. A pool helps you relax when you need some solitude or can get your heart rate going when you need a good cardiovascular workout. Do some laps, and then take some time just to enjoy the water.

3. Ride your bike. Hit the highway, pedal through the park or just cruise your neighborhood to get your workout in and take your mind off your troubles.

Fitness should always be a priority in our lives, even in times of physical illness. For those fighting cancer, it can make a world of difference.






9 comments:

  1. Fitness is really very essential for each and every field of the world. Fitness really help cancer patient to fight against cancer.Remember to eat clean any chance you can. Skip preservatives, chemicals and added sugars that cause inflammation, fat build-up and cravings.
    Vancouver Fitness: Helping you create a fit and healthy lifestyle

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    1. Thanks Samual; sounds like a wise comment about avoiding additives to foods and maybe a bit of 'people power' can make a difference with the food industry?

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  2. Thanks for sharing such useful information. Your blog is awesome I bookmark your blog for future assistance.Good job keep it up !!

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    1. Many thanks Jurmaine, good to have you on board.

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  3. Many people focus solely on their weight as a sign of their fitness progress and become exasperated that they aren't looking any better even as their kilos go down.

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  4. That's an interesting view, many thanks. Surely being the right weight is very important and perhaps looking lighter happens sooner or later?

    Doug.

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  5. That really good update here I found.

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  6. Hello! I've been reading your web site for some time now and finally got the bravery to go ahead and give you a shout out from Dallas Texas! Just wanted to mention keep up the great work!
    Also see my website: diets that work for Women

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    1. Hi Michelle

      Many thanks for visiting and leaving a comment. Just had a quick look at your website - seems the diet business is significant in your part of the world and I think you're right to refer to some as fads.

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