Anything goes when it comes to the Cardio for Cancer Challenge which is raising money for Dunedin’s Wellness Gym, an organisation which runs gym-based exercise programmes for cancer survivors in active treatment.
Jenny McMahon is participating in the fundraiser after recently being diagnosed with breast cancer, and said exercise would be a major key to her long-term physical and mental recovery.
The 67-year-old company director said she was diagnosed after a routine breast screen, but it was not detected early enough to avoid chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
"I’ve had surgery and I’m undergoing chemo at the moment, and radiotherapy is still to come.
"I do have clear surgical margins, but I understand the chemotherapy and radiotherapy is to mop up any escapee cells.
"The chemotherapy isn't for the faint-hearted.
"While I have been fortunate not to have major side-effects, I have been rendered extremely tired."
Dr McMahon said she was trying to maintain a level of exercise despite her tiredness, because the release of endorphins and dopamine made her feel better.
The exercise would also give her a better starting point for when she had finished her treatment.
"It is recommended for good reason.
"Though I do have to face the fact I will need to restart and regain decent fitness once the chemotherapy and radiotherapy are over, I have an excellent personal trainer and he will help me do it again."
The challenge starts on Saturday and runs until May 5, and a Givealittle page has been set up.
The Wellness Gym delivers high-quality, research-led exercise programmes for survivors of all cancer types.
It tailors exercises to the individual, taking into account treatment, medications, abilities and personal motivation from a strong community of cancer survivors who support each other.
