Moving Forward: Ellen’s Story of Healing and Resilience
At Halo, we are proud to support our members on their unique journeys to better health and wellbeing. Today, we want to share the inspiring story of Ellen Atkin one of our most dedicated members who has overcome incredible challenges with strength and determination.
Ellen is 72 and grew up in Northern Ireland but has lived in Hereford for decades. She was diagnosed with breast cancer in the summer of 2022 and, in the three years since, and on a journey to today’s remission she’s had a mastectomy, all her lymph nodes removed and a course of chemotherapy. She’s also had bone infusions to help strengthen her bones after the treatment. But it was the lymphoedema – now a lifelong condition as a result of the surgeries – that brought Ellen to Halo Leisure in Hereford when her nurse specialist recommended exercising in our Toning Suite to help fluid drainage in her arms. But the benefits have kept on coming, says Ellen.
What did you think you’d find at the Toning Suite?
I imagined a huge gym to be honest and was feeling intimidated, wondering if it would be right for me. But the nurse who’d recommended the Toning Suite took me in and introduced me to Wendy who showed me how everything worked. It was so welcoming I went back on my own the next morning and signed up. I have never looked back.
How did it help?
It started to deliver the physical benefits the nurse had hoped for – by working my arms it keeps the fluids moving – but there was something about it that changed the way I thought about the day. When you’ve had cancer, you live with the fear it will come back, and you can wake up thinking about it. But this gave me a focus each morning and a routine which was so good for me. And then there was the friendship. I’ve met so many people – new people, some who have been through illness journeys of their own – and we’ve become friends, going for coffee after our session. I do the same 45-minute slot – 11.05am every morning Monday to Friday – and I get a little buzz as I go in. I wouldn’t miss it. I simply feel happy. I am doing something I didn’t think I’d be able to do, with people I didn’t know would become an important part of my life and routine. And I am sure the endorphins help too as I am working out. Even my girls – I have two grown up daughters who live close by – saw the difference in me. They can see how much happier I am and how I am coping with everything.
Advice for others?
Go into the Toning Suite and take a look and have a chat with the team. My diagnosis shocked me, and the chemo floored me completely. Working out at a leisure centre was the last thing I thought I’d want to do after that experience, but I wouldn’t miss my session. I hope my story encourages others to give it a go. To surprise themselves with how good it will make them feel.
Inspired by Ellen? Let’s Support Your Next Step
If you’re recovering from injury or illness, or simply want to feel stronger and healthier, Halo is here to support you every step of the way.
Give us a call on 01432 842075 to chat with our team and find the right support for you.
