Cancer survivor starts running group - just two years after diagnosis
Rebecca O'Hara feels a group, specific to those with or recovering from the condition, can be hugely beneficial.
Last updated 6th Feb 2023
A Culbokie mum hopes to tackle the isolation felt by those living with cancer by starting a new running group.
Rebecca O'Hara, 38, was diagnosed with breast cancer in March 2021.
While her physical recovery was relatively quick, the impact of the condition led her to struggling mentally.
After seeing her own wellbeing improve with exercise, she feels a group specific to those with or recovering from the condition can be hugely beneficial.
"Emotional impact" of cancer
Despite a history of cancer within her family, Rebecca revealed she was shocked to hear about her diagnosis due to how young she was.
She said: "I really struggled to manage the emotional impact of the cancer.
"I'd ran on and off for years for my health, but in the wake of the diagnosis some of friends and I arranged to run once a week which I found really helpful.
"It got me out on days when I wouldn't probably have been able to get myself out alone.
"That experience was so beneficial to me when I was navigating cancer that I wanted to be able to offer that to other people, but with the added advantage of doing it with others who are in a similar boat.
"It can feel very isolating. Even with the support of great friends and family, I think it can help to know other people who are going through something similar."
Beginner and experienced runners welcome
Rebecca had surgery after her cancer was caught relatively quickly and is now on hormone treatment.
She says her physical recovery was very quick, but is now focused on dealing with psychological effects the condition has had on her.
Rebecca hopes she can use her experience to help others going through a similar process.
She added: "With the stress and anxiety when you're going through cancer, the rush of endorphins and the relaxed feeling you feel after more vigorous exercise can help you clear your mind a bit and help you calm down.
"I wouldn't want people who hadn't run before who don't consider themselves to be a runner to be put off because it's not just a running group.
"We are about being a warm, supporting and encouraging group and incorporating elements of mindfulness, people are going to be asked to listen to how they're feeling.
"We'll be walking and jogging, alternating between the two, it's going to be very gradual and progressive. "
Incredible Feet are starting beginner sessions at Ness Islands in Inverness on March 4th at 10am.
For more information on how to get involved click here