Lagan Valley LeisurePlex Goes Pink for Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Over 100 women and men dressed in pink gathered at Lagan Valley LeisurePlex to take part in two fitness classes in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Participants enjoyed lively Zumba Gold and Pretty in Pink Aerobics sessions filled with energy, fun and a dash of pink clothing! The event aimed to raise awareness of breast screening as well promote the importance of staying active to enhance your health and wellbeing.

The morning also included a relaxed social café where attendees enjoyed home baked goods, tea and coffee, while hearing from guest speaker, Lucy McCusker, Corporate Fundraising Manager at Action Cancer.

Alongside Lucy, participants were moved by the stories of two inspiring breast cancer survivors, Sam and Geraldine, who shared their personal journey and experience of diagnosis and recovery from cancer.

Speaking at the event, Mayor Amanda said, “It’s wonderful to see so many people come together to show their support for my charity, Action Cancer. Cancer has touched many lives and I have seen the difference early detection can make. Events like today help to raise vital awareness but also bring our community together in such a positive and uplifting way.

Hearing Sam and Geraldine’s stories reminds us all just how important it is to prioritise our health and get screened. I hope the message to take away from the session is simple but life-saving – get yourself screened. Men get breast cancer too. Awareness is strength, check yourself.”

Councillor Tim Mitchell, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee added, “It was truly inspiring to hear how Geraldine has benefited from our Cancer Rehabilitation Programme. Her story highlights the real impact these programmes can have helping people rebuild their confidence, improve their wellbeing and discover a love for fitness again.

I would like to thank our Health & Wellbeing team for organising such a fun and engaging morning that also highlighted the valuable work of Action Cancer in our communities.”

For more information on Action Cancer and the services they provide please click here.

Pictured - Mayor Amanda and Councillor Tim Mitchell, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, with Andrea Stanbridge, Health & Wellbeing Co-Ordinator and representatives from Action Cancer.