WORLD CANCER PREVENTION DAY


years short of my 30, and what a great decision that was, for had I not been retiring I may not have bothered to have this lump checked out,” explained Shaun. “I was diagnosed with an


aggressive head and neck cancer; the same cancer comedian Rhod Gilbert has recently been treated for and shared his experience of. I underwent surgery and then 30 sessions of radiotherapy and six rounds of chemotherapy, that have, touch wood, left me cancer free. But that was just the start as I needed significant help to gain my fitness back. “I contacted Flint House and applied for their cancer rehabilitation treatment. I was invited to Flint House within a month of contacting them, and received the physical rehabilitation I needed to strengthen my wasted


muscles and gain the energy levels that enable me to have as active a lifestyle as possible. At the end of my treatment a bespoke training regime was designed for me to continue after leaving the centre. “In short, the treatment I received on the cancer rehab course was fantastic, I would not be in the physical condition I am now without their support, treatment and guidance, it was, simply put, life changing.” The work of Kate, and the other physios


at Flint House, is life changing to so many that pass through their doors, helping retired and serving officers to get the physical fitness they depend on. Their work also helps combat symptoms


such as fatigue. Fatigue is a common and lingering side effect of cancer treatment, affecting the energy levels and daily functioning of survivors. Physical rehabilitation incorporates targeted exercises and energy conservation strategies to manage fatigue and improve endurance. By gradually increasing physical activity, survivors can enhance their energy levels, reduce fatigue-related distress, and reintegrate into a more active lifestyle. The impact of physical rehabilitation


extends beyond the immediate post- treatment period. Survivors such as


“My physio, Kate, was trained in this procedure and I received life-changing results as it cleared the problem quickly, having suffered it for months and still waiting for the NHS to offer treatment!” He added: “Having been prepared by my


“Rehabilitation plays a crucial role in


restoring physical strength, functionality, and emotional wellbeing, enabling survivors to regain control over their lives.”


Shaun often face long-term effects such as neuropathy, lymphedema, and musculoskeletal issues. Rehabilitation programmes provide ongoing support to manage and mitigate these issues, helping survivors adapt to any lingering challenges and maintain their physical wellbeing over the long term. Fortunately for Shaun the physios


at Flint House are trained in different specialities, including lymphedema. Shaun continued: “Crucially for me, I received treatment for the lymphedema that I was suffering in the chin neck area due to glands being scarred and not draining the fluid normally.


physio with an exercise regime to follow after leaving Flint House, I was given the belief that post-cancer I could return to as much of my old life as possible with the confidence I had when I was still in the force. “I also can’t put into words the support I got from fellow officers at Flint House - the natural bond between officers supporting each other through difficult treatment is ever present there and a huge strength towards achieving recovery.” Physical rehabilitation


after successful cancer treatment is a crucial component of the


recovery journey. It plays a pivotal role in restoring physical function, addressing emotional wellbeing, managing treatment-related side effects, and promoting a holistic approach to recovery. By tailoring rehabilitation programmes


to the unique needs of each survivor, those at Flint House, and the other police rehabilitation centres, contribute to the enhancement of the overall quality of life for individuals who have triumphed over cancer. The importance of physical rehabilitation extends far beyond recovery; it is an integral part of empowering survivors to thrive in their lives beyond cancer.


11 | POLICE | FEBRUARY | 2024


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