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Climbing is the ideal way to tune out of other worries and be present in the moment

Climbing. Cancer. Two words that I wouldn’t typically use in the same sentence, unless perhaps I was making the analogy of cancer being a mountain to climb. But climbing as an activity when you’re living with or beyond cancer? Absolutely, says Cassandra who recently discovered the joy of climbing…

“Before I was diagnosed with breast cancer in September 2024, I was always very active and loved my morning runs so having a positive mindset came naturally to me. However, once treatment started the physical impact was a shock – I was constantly exhausted and needed afternoon naps. My morning runs became a thing of the past. 

I discovered the Climbers Against Cancer course and it has been the perfect way to get active again. It taught me that I can overcome challenges and even fight my fear of heights.

It’s also become a proper family activity where my husband and I can participate together and it’s something we looked forward to. He’s been right there with me supporting and encouraging, making it a true team effort and is able to share in my achievements rather than it be something I had to do alone. It’s brought us all closer.

We were able to bring our children and the team encouraged them to join in with us, so watching my daughters (aged 10 and 12) grow in self-belief and strength with me has been the ultimate reward. We’ve also found a wonderful, supportive community in our fellow climbers.

At 38, if I hadn’t had this opportunity, I don’t think I would have had the motivation to be particularly active again during treatment. I’ve loved every moment and would recommend climbing to anyone in recovery, for both the physical and mental challenge”.

Dominic Oughton is a Trustee for Climbers Against Cancer (https://www.climbersagainstcancer.org/) and passionately believes in the positive impact that climbing can have for someone navigating a cancer diagnosis.

“We know that physical activity can drastically improve physical and mental health among individuals living with and beyond cancer”, says Dom. “Climbing is a perfect example of this. It’s safe, accessible, inclusive, social and supportive. In addition it’s easy to tailor it to an individual’s needs and abilities. It offers both a physical and mental challenge, the ideal way to tune out of other worries and be present in the moment. Above all else, it offers fun for any age”. (https://climbersagainstcancer.org/the-benefits-of-climbing-beyond-cancer/)

Climbers Against Cancer was founded by well-known and loved climber John Ellison who was diagnosed with cancer in 2011. They raise funds and awareness for cancer research and initiatives through the power of the global climbing community. A variety of courses and climbing programmes run regularly across the UK and beyond. 

“The conclusion of one of the climbing programmes was celebrated recently”, says Dom. “Cassandra and her family joined more than twenty other participants and friends for an ‘outdoor celebration’ event, taking their new skills onto real rock in the Peak District to start the next part of their journey in ‘Climbing Beyond Cancer’. Watch this space for news of new programmes starting across the country in the autumn”. 

Climbing walls around the world have partnered with Climbers Against Cancer to create CAC centres, helping to raise awareness and support their mission. These gyms and facilities play a vital role in promoting CAC by hosting fundraising events, selling merchandise and spreading the word about their cause.