Huddersfield hospital staff and patients star in breast cancer fitness DVD

May 18 2009 Huddersfield Daily Examiner

IT WAS lights, camera, action for staff and patients from Huddersfield Royal Infirmary as filming got underway for a new exercise DVD for breast cancer sufferers.

The fitness stars put on their Lycra to take part in a DVD designed to help women recovering from breast surgery across the country.

HRI breast cancer nurse Susan Booker and oncology physiotherapist Lisa Wright came up with the bright idea to get women moving again after major operations.

The pair made an amateur video for local patients several years ago to help women recover after treatment.

Now the charity Breast Cancer Care has thrown its weight behind the project to help the duo produce a professional DVD to help breast cancer patients nationally.

A production team was sent to film the group carrying out the routines at Greens Gym in Baildon last week.

The finished DVD is expected to be available later this year.

Susan, who thought up the idea for her patients after watching other exercise videos, said: “Exercise is so important as it helps patients regain mobility and flexibility after their treatment and it also produces an extra feeling of well-being.

“We are delighted that what started as a local idea in Huddersfield will now benefit patients all over the country.”

Physiotherapist Lisa led the group through the gentle warm-ups, exercises and cooling down routines aimed at recovering confidence and strength in the arms and upper body.

Breast cancer patient Gillian Hobson, from Crosland Moor, was delighted to be taking part.