One step at a time

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Members of the Online Community have shared how helpful getting outside and walking has been for their mental health and wellbeing, even if it’s only a few steps around the garden or a few quiet moments in nature.

This thread is a space for anyone in the Online Community to share those moments. You’re welcome to:

  • Share when you’ve been for a walk or spent some time outside
  • Talk about how you were feeling before or after
  • Share encouraging thoughts or quotes
  • Post photos from your walk (while staying safe and not sharing identifying details)

There’s no pressure, targets, or competition. The idea is simply to encourage one another, share the small moments that help, and enjoy some of the wellbeing benefits that can come from fresh air, movement, and time spent outdoors.

  • Hi everyone

    I haven't really posted for a while but things are returning to  "normal" for me.

    I went back to work at the end of July, working 4 weeks on phased return, and then back full time for the last 5 weeks.

    Since I returned to work, I have got a daily exercise routine - cycle to/from work, walk during the day around the work grounds, and then cycle and walk in the evenings. I have music and podcasts on my phone, and listen to them as I am walking and cycling. Clears the head and keeps me physically active.

    I hope everyone is doing well, and have a great week-end and be safe.

    Tony

  • Good morning Tony,

    What a joy to hear such a positive story, so pleased that you are getting back to some sort of normal and that the return to work has been OK. 

    I am with you in the exercise approach- keep it up ( and maybe get some reflective clothing for the darker months ahead!!!)

    Take care

    Stay positive, be strong

    KrisPy  

    Older man

  • Since I returned to work, I have got a daily exercise routine - cycle to/from work, walk during the day around the work grounds, and then cycle and walk in the evenings. I have music and podcasts on my phone, and listen to them as I am walking and cycling. Clears the head and keeps me physically active.


    Hey , that sounds like a really good routine. What sort of podcasts are you enjoying at the moment?

    All the best,
    Matthew
    Macmillan Online Community Team

  • I am with you in the exercise approach- keep it up ( and maybe get some reflective clothing for the darker months ahead!!!)

     , that's a good shout. Given the change in seasons, it probably wouldn't hurt to get some reflective waterproofs. Umbrella

    All the best,
    Matthew
    Macmillan Online Community Team

  • Hi Tony. That’s a good exercise routine that you have put in place & with podcasts & your fav music too. Also good that you have got back to work

    Best wishes & keep on trucking

    Andy. 

  • Hi Tony. Went to Belfast for a long weekend 5 or 6 years ago. Made sure we landed at George Best Airport & not the other - too far away. Also went to Derry, popping in Spoons The Diamond while we were there. Went to The Titanic museum while we were there as well as Crumlin Gaol. Both vibrant cities with friendly people. Also have been to Dublin, but had bit of a problem with my Brum accent!! Hope your thyroid removal op goes ok, but of course it will!! 
    Best wishes

    Andy. 

  • Hi everyone,

    I hope you’re able to get out and about a little this weekend.

    There have been some great experiences and advice shared on this thread. Thank you to everyone who has been involved so far. I wanted to share these two blogs below, as you might find them helpful when thinking about walking and exercise while living with cancer.

    If you have any clinical questions, please feel free to get in touch with one of our cancer information nurse specialists. They are available free of charge (in the UK) on 0808 808 00 00.

    Best wishes,
    Dylan

    Macmillan's Online Community Team

  • I have Parotid saliva duct cancer I’m 82 and have been offered ADT therapy or a neck resection and removal of the cancer by surgery which is a big operation with 7 days in hospital. I would like to hear from anyone who has had ADT which reduces testosterone and slows the cancer down. What are the side effects like I’m given to believe they are bad. 

  • Hello  

    A warm welcome to the online Community although I am so sorry to find you joining us.

    Yes - ADT removes your testosterone and there is a wide list of side effects - the main ones being fatigue and erectile dysfunction. I have been on ADT for almost 5 years on and off and you can read my journey by clicking on my user name avatar. ADT affects everyone differently but the fitter you are the better!

    As you have Parotid saliva duct cancer it would be a great idea to join this group where you will find others in the same or similar situation:

    Head and neck cancer forum 

    Just click on the link I have provided and once the page opens up. click on "join" on the black banner at the bottom of the page. Once you have joined the group why not introduce yourself in the "New Here - Say Hello Section.

    If you need any help in navigating the Community or want to chat about ADT please do get back to me.

    I wish you well on your personal journey.

    Best wishes - Brian.

    Community Champion badge

    Macmillan Support Line - 0808 808 00 00, 7 days a week between 8am-8pm

    Strength, Courage, Faith, Hope, Defiance, VICTORY.

    I am a Macmillan volunteer.

  • Welcome to October, everyone. 

    I hope each step you take this month brings you a little peace and strength as you face whatever challenges may come your way.

    I’ve got into a routine of a weekly walk in the woods and have really been enjoying taking photos of the mushrooms each time. Here are two photos from my latest walk. 

    Do you have any autumn routines that involve getting outdoors?

       

    Best wishes,
    Dylan

    Macmillan's Online Community Team