On Thursday 9th November, Cath Koutna and Sarah-Jane Savage from the ICB cancer team had the privilege of attending the Lincolnshire Sport & Physical Activity Awards 2023, hosted by Active Lincolnshire. They attended with representatives from the Lincoln City Foundation and some of the remarkable people who are currently going through or have been through treatment for cancer.
They were nominated for their collaborative efforts delivering the Fighting Fit programme through the Lincoln City Foundation. The competition was tough, but the Fighting Fit programme emerged as the winners and were honoured to receive the Impact on Health Award along with the Lincoln City Foundation.
Cath Koutna is one of our Cancer Team project managers and it was her dream and vision five years ago to establish an exercise class that people living with or beyond cancer in Lincolnshire could attend. This stemmed from Cath’s personal experience of breast cancer in 2018, and as she moved through her treatment she used walking and running as an opportunity to heal mentally and physically.
Cath recognised the power of movement and was given an opportunity to support in the creation of a safe, non-judgemental space where people who have experienced cancer could exercise together, when she joined the cancer team in 2021. Keeping physically active not only supports a speedier recovery post-treatment, but forms a vital role in prehabilitation , and preparing people for their treatment.
“To receive this award has been the icing on the cake. It is clear to see and hear just how vital these sessions have become in supporting peoples’ physical and mental wellbeing whilst navigating cancer. I could not be prouder of seeing this programme extend beyond what I ever imagined, and working alongside the Lincoln City Foundation and other partners has really helped us to reach as many people as possible. I am really excited to see how the programme will continue to grow,” comments Cath.
This accomplishment is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and unwavering commitment of the teams involved. It was really heartening to see first-hand the relationships the people who attend the sessions have built with each other, and the Fighting Fit delivery team . The Fighting Fit group is more than just a fitness class for the people of Lincolnshire, it is a huge support to them in a difficult time and a place where lifelong friendships are being made.
We would also like to extend our thanks to Dr Sunil Hindocha for stepping in as the camera man on the night. Sunil’s efforts allowed our colleagues who were attending the Macmillan Cancer Awards in Glasgow to witness the award presentation remotely.
This recognition is a significant milestone for us, highlighting the positive impact we are making on the lives of people living with or beyond cancer across Lincolnshire. It also serves as a reminder that our efforts are not in vain and that we are truly making a difference in the community we serve.