The OPTIMISE programme aims to help support referred patients to prepare physically, mentally and emotionally for cancer treatment by enhancing strength, fitness and overall health before and during treatment.
Sessions are held weekly at the Riverside Stadium and the Herlingshaw Centre in Eston.
What does each session involve?
- A 1 hour exercise session, adapted to individual patient needs
- 1 hour of one-hour of refreshments, social and emotional support, and activities based around goal-setting and mindfulness.
The programme offers our patients a unique opportunity to support themselves in improving their fitness during their cancer journey, whilst getting behind the scenes experience of the Riverside Stadium.
Personalised cancer care prehabilitation lead, Chloe McMurray said: “I am delighted to be partnering with Middlesbrough Football Club Foundation to expand access to high-quality cancer prehabilitation across our local community.
“A cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but prehabilitation gives people the power to step into treatment feeling stronger, more prepared, and more in control.
"By supporting physical health, nutrition, emotional wellbeing, and confidence, we help individuals realise that they are not facing this journey alone. Delivering sessions within such iconic welcoming community venues allows us to bring personalised, evidence‑based support closer to home.”
Eligibility and contact details
To be eligible, you must be referred to the OPTIMISE cancer prehabilitation service via a healthcare professional involved in your care.
For more information please email [email protected] or [email protected] or alternatively call 01642 282792.