When Dawn was diagnosed with breast cancer, she decided to increase her physical activity to get the best treatment outcome she could. She tells us about her journey, and her weightlifting triumphs along the way.
Can you tell us about your breast cancer diagnosis?
I first went to the GP with what I thought was ‘menopausal boobs’. He found a lump and I was referred to the 2-week breast cancer clinic. The mammogram and ultrasound were clear, but the lump remained. So, I called back for a 6-week biopsy and that showed no cancer.
9 months later, the lump was still there. I went back again and this time the biopsy showed stage 3 ductal cancer. That was the day I decided to do everything in my power to give myself the very best shot. I was a single mum of 3 and my children needed their mum.
So, operation ‘beat this’ started. I followed a healthy diet recommended for breast cancer, I upped my immune protection, and I stepped up my exercise. I was already a weightlifter and generally a sporty person, but I knew that exercise would prepare me for treatment.
How did you increase your exercise at that time?
I had 6 weeks to get ready for chemotherapy. I got stronger and fitter, with more cardio and, more importantly, more weights.
2 weeks before my chemotherapy started, I competed in the British Masters Weightlifting Championships in Glasgow. and I won gold! Just recently, I became the English Champion for 2024. This focus was so important to keep me going and give me a purpose outside of cancer.
What impact did physical activity have on your wellbeing during and after treatment?
I think exercise was key to my cancer journey being straight forward. I completely understand that not everyone is going to want to do Olympic weightlifting. But I think that getting fit and strong before accelerated chemotherapy, along with a healthy diet, meant I didn’t get a single infection.
During my treatment, it was also crucial to stay strong and train, to keep me mentally focused and keep the bugs away. I think it helped my treatment target the cancer and reduced my side effects. My top tip is to drink lots of water on chemo day. It helps flush the chemo through your system and keep you hydrated. Often, I was back to work the next day.
Between chemo and surgery, I started running again. I raised money for Breast Cancer Now by doing ‘30 miles in March’ 2024. And then in June, post-surgery, I did the Race for Life with my children. Running has been harder since being on oestrogen blockers, but I can row and cycle instead. Just moving again has been such a boost to my mental health.
What support did you receive along the way?
I was super lucky to have a group of friends who encouraged and supported me to get through my workouts, no matter how tough.
My lifting family at Evolution Weightlifting Club and my coach Sam Heenan were and are amazing. They provided me with social contact and lots of laughs.
My exercise programme was tailored to my treatment timings and day-to-day changes gave me focus. It helped me cope with the routine of chemotherapy twice a week and stopped me feeling like a cancer patient.
The club always made sure the gym was clean and safe for me to train and that reassured me. Every chemo patient needs an Evolution Weightlifting Club in their life. It’s better than therapy!
How did you stay motivated to exercise?
My mantra was always do something no matter how rubbish I felt. I knew that I’d feel so much better afterwards and that it was helping me fight the critter that came to visit.
Some days it was like I wasn’t even poorly but some days it was really difficult. So, having a plan gave me the focus I needed, and the satisfaction of ticking a workout as done.
What tips do you have for anyone who is going through breast cancer?
Exercise is good for managing side effects of treatment, and there’s no doubt that it’s good for your mental health too. Get a plan and try your very best to stick to it. It will be hard some days but it all helps, both during and after cancer.
I trained throughout chemo. Yes, I lost some strength, but I was still able to train and had a goal. Goals are good and they’re something you can control when there are things you can’t.
My goal was to win the English master’s Olympic Weightlifting Championships in December. That was my focus throughout my treatment and recovery.
Is there anything else you’d like to share about your experience?
Get strong doing what you love, even when you hate it. Stay strong doing what you love and build to a new post cancer life when you are able.
Let’s kick cancer and give ourselves the best chance to live longer. Control what you can and be empowered to achieve your goals. This is your journey!
Before you start any vigorous exercise, talk to your GP or your treatment team. They can talk to you about the most suitable physical activity for you.
If you’re worried about breast cancer or have a question about breast health, Breast Cancer Now is here to support you every step of the way. Speak to our expert nurses now by calling our free helpline on 0808 800 6000 or visit forum.breastcancernow.org.
Want to get active?
If Dawn’s story has inspired you to get active following a breast cancer diagnosis, you can find information and support to help you get back into exercise through our We Are Undefeatable campaign.