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On the morning of Wednesday 8th March, preparations were busily underway for the very first Wellbeing Day hosted by LinkAge’s Macmillan Prevention and Re-enablement project.
The ‘Discover a New You’ Wellbeing Day, aimed to welcome and support people aged 55+ living with and beyond cancer, and their carers/supporters, to try a variety of fun, creative and physical activities and to also access the variety of fantastic support services that are available across Bristol.
A marketplace of stall holders were present at the event, with the Hope Course, Macmillan Bristol Buddies, Healthwatch, Penny Brohn UK, Carers Support Centre, Macmillan Wellbeing Centre and Energise, all showcasing services for those living with and beyond cancer. Specsavers were also present at the event, offering guests free eye and hearing tests.
There was a great atmosphere on the day, as guests were welcomed upon arrival with a goody bag and a hot drink, before settling down for a welcome talk by Macmillan’s Prevention and Re-enablement Project Manager, Hannah Currant. After a brief welcome and introduction to the day ahead, Paul Emsley from Energise gave a talk on how the quality of life for people affected by cancer, can be improved through taking part in regular physical activity.
The programme of activities for the day, started with a lively first session of Chair Aerobics. Participants were led by instructor Clair to the beat of fun soundtracks. One participant Wendy said she was left feeling “energised and uplifted” from the session.
This session was followed by a Relaxation Class, led by Sophie Bayley from Penny Brohn UK, who shared some effective relaxation techniques that guests could try at home.
Ballroom Dancing was a whirl; with guests pairing up and being taught step-by-step some gentle ballroom moves, whilst others happily watched on with a cup of tea in hand.
After a healthy and delicious lunch, guests were treated to a calming Tai Chi session. Instructor Frank guided guests through a variety of sequences. One guest stated how she now “feels inspired to take up Tai Chi.”
Amongst the backdrop of activities and stallholders, there was also the option for guests to have a free massage and try their hand at some arts and crafts.
It was fantastic to see so many people come together on the day to try new things, meet new people and support each other.
“So friendly, generous people giving up their facilities and time. [I] made a couple of new friendships at the same time.”
“There is so much support around; once you have found one it opens the doors to other areas.”
We would like to thank Burges Salmon for kindly hosting the Wellbeing Day.
Planning is already taking place for another Macmillan Wellbeing Day in early-mid June. So if you would like to register your interest, then please contact the Macmillan team on 0117 353 3042.
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The Macmillan Prevention and Re-enablement project supports people (aged 55+) affected by cancer, to connect with positive and fun activities that are available across the city.
As part of the project, we are offering people who have been affected by cancer a Taster Token which gives access to 5 LinkAge activities for FREE.
If you have been affected by cancer, and would like a Taster Token, or more information on the project, please contact the LinkAge office on 0117 353 3042 and speak to the Macmillan team.