Chantal Verlinden, Author at Big C Cancer Charity

Big C and Alive Bring Free Cancer Rehab to King’s Lynn

Big C Cancer Charity is working in partnership with Alive, part of the Borough Council of King’s Lynn & West Norfolk to offer free rehabilitation sessions for recovering cancer patients.

Building on the success of Big C’s rehabilitation group at Riverside Leisure Centre in Norwich, the sessions are being extended further into West Norfolk where a 12-week programme will start at Alive Lynnsport in King’s Lynn.

The sessions are being launched on 4 February to coincide with World Cancer Day, an international day dedicated to raising awareness around cancer and encouraging prevention, detection and treatment. They are open to anyone who has had cancer, is now in remission or well enough to be partaking in physical exercise.

Cancer Rehab patient seated on exercise bike with instructor explaining controls.

Karen Vincent, Chief Executive at Big C says “We are delighted to be working in partnership with Alive Lynnsport, bringing cancer rehabilitation into the heart of the King’s Lynn community.

“Launching these sessions on World Cancer Day makes this moment especially meaningful for us, as it highlights the importance of supporting people to live well with and beyond cancer.”

Karen Vincent, Big C Chief Executive, leaning against a handrail at Big C's Head Office

The idea of the programme is to support people back to fitness following a cancer diagnosis, and help them build confidence, so ultimately, they will feel more comfortable about joining a class.

Amy Goreham, Physical Activity and Wellbeing Practitioner explains “Our Big C Rehab Class will provide a welcoming space to enjoy exercise safely and confidently, guided by a Qualified Level 4 cancer rehabilitation practitioner.

“Whether you’re a seasoned gym-goer or trying exercise for the first time, these sessions can boost your fitness and rebuild body confidence.

“These classes will help you to move as part of a supportive group, feel empowered and learn to use equipment with ease. There’s no need to feel apprehensive about coming into a gym class – we’re there to support you every step of the way.”

The circuit-based activities are multi-level, ensuring all abilities are catered for, and concentrate on cardio, strength and agility. A buddy system is in place to make sure everyone is supported in the best possible way.

The sessions involve 45 minutes of activity, followed by an hour of an optional post-class social over a cup of tea. Big C’s support team are on hand to offer any support or advice needed, but it gives the opportunity for people to chat with other members of the group who may be going through a similar experience.

Cancer Rehab patient seated on rowing machine with an instructor providing support.

Cllr Jo Rust, Cabinet Member for People and Communities says “In addition to the great work we’re doing with the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in King’s Lynn, we’re delighted to be partnering with Big C on this new venture.

“Our goal is to make West Norfolk a healthier, happier place, and the rehab class is a really important step in working together and building healthier communities.”

If you are interested in joining the group, please contact Big C who can provide further information and do an initial screening before getting you started. Bookings can be made each week, so there is no pressure to join in every session. To find out more call 0800 092 7640, email support@big-c.co.uk or visit www.big-c.co.uk.

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Join us at a Big C fundraising event!

Looking for a fun new challenge? We have a fantastic line-up of fundraising events coming up, and we’d love for you to get involved. Fundraise for Big C and support local people affected by cancer.

Big C’s Big Cuppa

Big Cuppa returns this year for World Cancer Day to recognise and raise awareness of the vital cancer support and research happening right here in Norfolk and around the world.

We are inviting everyone to come together from 26 January to 13 February to enjoy a good cup of tea and slice of cake all in aid of Big C.

Your Big Cuppa can be whatever you want it to be. You could have a traditional coffee morning at work and treat your colleagues to some homemade goods, have a bake sale in your front garden or even host your own Bake Off competition with friends!

Strictly Big C

On 28 February our fabulous Big C contestants will be heading onto the dance floor once again to see if they can win the Strictly Big C glitter ball!

Working with the very talented dancers from Miller Dance Studios, our contestants from local Norwich businesses have been very busy working on their dance routines ready to see if they can get that perfect 10!

This event is now sold out, and we can’t wait to welcome everyone who has secured a ticket. Expect a night of spectacular performances, music from a live DJ and plenty of sequins as we dance the night away!

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Running events

The always popular Blickling Spring Half Marathon will once again be taking place on 29 March, and we are delighted that so many people have decided to enter this sold-out race and run in aid of Big C.

Runners are taken through the beautiful North Norfolk countryside before crossing the finish line in front of the iconic Blickling Hall where they will receive their medal.

This half marathon will be a two lap course through the wonderful Blickling Estate and is a multi-terrain route with a short road section.

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If you’re looking to push yourself a little further or would simply like to add some coastal views to your run, then why not sign up for the Norfolk Marathon or Half Marathon.

Happening on 19 April, the route will take runners through the picturesque Norfolk countryside and coastal villages, before finishing at the church in Cromer.

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Big C runner smiling at the cheering crowd

100k in May

In May, we are challenging you to complete 100k throughout the month!

With friends and family, on your own or with your dog, you can take on 100k in whatever way you choose! Will you take a paddle board along the Broads, cycle with the family or walk the Norfolk coast with a four-legged friend?

We’re excited to hear how you will spend your May whilst supporting Big C!

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Big C XI
Charity Football Match

If you’re looking for a family-friendly day out, then why not join us and the Big C XI team at Wroxham Football Club for our Charity Football Match on Sunday 3 May. It will be a day of football, penalty shoot-outs and fun!

Enjoy watching the beautiful game with a great line-up as the Big C XI squad take on Help Delete Cancer. Ticket sales will open soon!

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A group of football players smiling at the camera

We hope you’re able to come and support us at one of these events! If you’re hosting your own fundraising event with friends, family or colleagues, our fundraising team would love to hear from you. Whatever you’re planning to do this year, get in touch and we’ll support you every step of the way!

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Big C announces HM Lord-Lieutenant of Norfolk, the Lady Dannatt MBE, as new Patron

Big C is honoured to announce HM Lord-Lieutenant of Norfolk, the Lady Dannatt MBE, as its new Patron.

In recognition of the work the charity does supporting local people affected by cancer in Norfolk and beyond, Lady Dannatt said “As Lord-Lieutenant of Norfolk it is a great honour to be asked to be Patron of Big C. Big C is a phenomenal Norfolk cancer charity that touches and enriches so many lives across the county, and as such is close to my heart.”

(Lady Dannett, centre of the photo, during a recent lab tour visit at Norwich Research Park)

A group of six adults stands in a line outside a building with large glass doors. They are dressed in smart, semi-formal clothing and smiling at the camera. The group includes three men and three women of varying ages. The background shows the building’s interior through the glass and some outdoor reflections.

Lady Dannatt has been close to Big C for a number of years, alongside a variety of other hard-working Norfolk charities with which she is involved. As a trained professional counsellor, latterly working at the Sue Lambert Trust, she knows only too well the importance of support for vulnerable people.

Karen Vincent, Chief Executive at Big C said “We are delighted and deeply honoured that HM Lord-Lieutenant of Norfolk, the Lady Dannatt MBE has graciously accepted the role as our Patron.

“As we mark 45 years of supporting local people affected by cancer, Lady Dannatt’s patronage holds special significance. This milestone follows the profound loss of our beloved President and co-founder David Moar MBE and so to have Lady Dannatt alongside us going forward means so much.”