From Recovery to Role Models
Maria and Michelle Are Inspiring Others After Breast Cancer
This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we’re sharing the inspiring stories of two remarkable woman – Maria and Michelle – who have turned their personal battles with breast cancer into careers helping others.
Both were once participants in Lincs Inspire’s Active Forever referral programme. Today they are qualified instructors, using their lived experience to inspire, guide and support others.
Their efforts – and the programme that supported them – has recently been recognised with the Innovation Award at the NEL Health and Care Excellence Awards, recognising the exceptional support for people living with health conditions.
Maria: From Diagnosis to Determination
Maria was diagnosed with an aggressive form of breast cancer in 2020, while also caring for her terminally ill father. Her treatment included multiple surgeries, hormone therapy, and radiotherapy, but it was during her recovery that she discovered the power of physical activity.
Initially nervous, Maria joined the Active Forever programme, where she felt supported and encouraged. It was there that she had a pivotal moment. “I remember thinking, I’d love to give back in some way,” she says.
That thought became a reality. Maria retrained as a fitness professional and is now cancer-free. She works with others facing similar challenges, sharing both her expertise and her lived experience.
Michelle: Finding Confidence and a New Purpose
Michelle’s diagnosis came in 2015. Following chemotherapy and radiotherapy, she was referred to Active Forever by the Pink Rose Suite. At first, she was hesitant to attend. “I was scared and very anxious,” she recalls.
But with gentle encouragement, Michelle found a supportive environment that helped her regain her confidence. “I was receiving counselling at the time and was asked what my happy place was. I said, ‘The Wellness Hub.’ That’s how much it meant to me.”
After completing the programme, she retrained, gaining multiple fitness qualifications. Now in remission, Michelle works at Cleethorpes Leisure Centre and often supports new referrals who are walking the same path she once did.
Strength in Shared Experience
Maria and Michelle’s connected stories prove that healing is not only possible but can be the start of a whole new chapter. Today, they use their positions as instructors to empower others.
“I always say,” Maria adds, “‘It doesn’t matter how many times you get knocked down, it’s how you get back up.’ And when I get back up, I want to do something really good.”
Michelle agrees: “This job continues to help me as much as it helps others. I’ve had a complete career change because of breast cancer – and I’m proud of that.”
Recognised for Excellence
The Active Forever referral programme continues to play a critical role in the lives of people managing long-term health conditions, disabilities, and recovery from illness. The Innovation Award highlights its commitment to reaching those who may otherwise struggle to access support. Active Forever rebuilds not just the body, but confidence and community.
Thanks to funding from the National Lottery Reaching Communities Fund, part-funded Active Forever places are available for eligible participants. The programme currently costs £34 for 12-weeks. There is also a £5 admin fee.
Maria and Michelle also lead low impact group sessions in the new LIFE Studio at Cleethorpes Leisure Centre, including Chair Based Stretches, Mindfulness and Music, and Seated Movement to Music – all designed to improve wellbeing and build community.
Contact Us
If you or someone you know is living with a medical condition and would benefit from supported, specialist-led physical activity, speak to your GP or health professional about a referral, visit Active Forever or phone (01472) 323200.
