Over 121 kilometers, divided into six stages, a group of 15 women undergoing cancer treatments, have traveled different Galician cities like Ferrol, Pontedeume, Betanzos and Sigüeiro. This route known as “the English Way", ended with the entourage's arrival at the Obradoiro square in Santiago de Compostela.
This year, the city celebrates a Xacobeo Holy year, and the group of women and the medical team who has assisted them along the way, had the opportunity to visit sites such as the Portico of Glory, which is the western entrance of the Santiago de Compostela cathedral.
The group has lived different experiences during the journey and also tested their physical abilities. According to studies, some of the side effects of cancer treatments include chronic fatigue, joint pain and muscle mass loss. For this reason, the Medical Oncology service of the Infanta Cristina de Parla University Hospital explains: "Patients who exercise during adjuvant therapy (chemotherapy, radiotherapy or hormone therapy) experience fewer side effects, which decreases the risk of suffering other related consequences."
The Sacyr Foundation supports these initiatives, which contribute to patients being able to share in a more direct way with their doctor how they feel during their day-to-day life. In addition, they improve their self-esteem with positive reinforcement through self-improvement. And also raise awareness about the importance of physical activity for its direct health benefits.