WHEN 65-year-old Parkerville breast cancer survivor Anne Clohessy signed up for a Cancer Council WA Life Now exercise class in August 2025, it had been years since she had set foot inside a gym.

Twelve weeks later, she had gained 2.1 kilograms of muscle, built the confidence to train independently, and discovered a new part of her identity.

Now Ms Clohessy is encouraging people living with cancer and their carers to join Cancer Council WA’s Life Now program, offering free in-person and online courses starting April 2026.

“The exercise course has literally been life-changing for me,” Ms Clohessy said.

“I had very little experience with gyms or exercise programs and I was really daunted by the idea of joining one.

“The course gave me real, measurable results that showed me this wasn’t just helping emotionally, it was changing my body and my health for the better. It gave me the confidence to exercise safely, to use equipment properly, and to challenge myself in ways I never thought I could.

“Before my cancer diagnosis, I hardly exercised at all. Now it’s part of my weekly routine and part of my identity.”

The Life Now program provides a range of courses designed to support wellbeing during cancer treatment and recovery.

Participants can explore exercise, meditation, mindfulness, mindful art, Tai Chi, and yoga, with classes available across Western Australia and online to suit all needs and locations.

Cancer Council WA Life Now program coordinator Annika English said the purpose of the program is to introduce mind-body practices in a safe and supportive environment and to empower people to manage their own physical and mental wellbeing.

“Our evidence-based Life Now courses offer physiological, psychological, and social support to people like Anne affected by cancer and their primary carers,” she said.

“We know that people with cancer who exercise regularly have fewer and milder side effects from their treatments.”

Applications are essential and eligibility criteria applies. For more information on Life Now courses go to the calendar or apply via the online application form.

You can also email ‘subscribe’ to lifenow@cancerwa.asn.au for regular updates and information or call 13 11 20 to speak with a cancer nurse.