National Cancer Survivors Day - Sunday 8th June 2025
Held on the first Sunday in June, National Cancer Survivors Day, is a celebration for all those who have been diagnosed with cancer and, following treatment, have been given the all clear.
It is a day that is celebrated around the world and a chance to reflect on what cancer patients endure and the effect on their families.
One local group that embodies the spirit of this day all year round is 5K Your Way Cwmbran. 5K Your Way, Move Against Cancer is a community-based initiative to encourage those living with and beyond cancer, their families and friends, and those working in cancer services to walk, jog, run, cheer or volunteer at designated parkrun events on the last Saturday of every month.
Sian Lewis, Macmillan AHP Cancer Lead and 5K Your Way Ambassador, is one of the leads for the Cwmbran group.
“I attend 5K Your Way as I know how important it is for any one affected by cancer to have support and do some physical activity,” she said.
We also spoke to other local ambassadors, several of whom are cancer survivors themselves.
Meet Lena Evans, who was diagnosed with breast cancer, now regularly attends the group.
“I attend 5K Your Way to show there is life after cancer and to maintain a level of fitness.”
Andrew Spencer, also a survivor, shared:
“I attend 5K Your Way as having survived cancer it provides great support for others and shows that exercise is a positive step forward.”
Catherine Spencer, Andrew’s wife and carer during his treatment, added:
“I attend 5K Your Way as being a carer attending parkrun gave me the boost to see me through the coming week and that much needed sense of normality that I needed.”
Dr Jane Mathlin, a retired Consultant Radiographer and 5K Your Way Ambassador, explained:
“I attend 5K Your Way as I have seen first-hand how exercise can help people going through cancer treatments.”
Would you - or someone you know - benefit from the support and community of 5K Your Way? Find out more at: https://www.moveagainstcancer.org/events/cwmbran/