Thursday 25 May 2023

Meet Exercise Physiologist, Grace Williams!

Grace has been working at Exercise@ONJ since 2021. Since her very first year of university, Grace had a strong interest in exercise-oncology.

“I feel so grateful for the opportunity to work with individuals living with cancer, using ‘exercise as a medicine’ to help them improve their fitness, physical function and quality of life,” she says.

A big part of Grace’s role is talking with patients, and providing education to help facilitate life-long habits around exercise and physical activity.

“Seeing the difference in people’s energy, mood and confidence levels, how they move and seeing them return to their favourite hobbies is one of the most rewarding aspects of my job.”

“We love to have a chat and laugh with our patients. Hearing stories about their lives is always a highlight of my day,” Grace adds.

May 22-28 is Exercise Right Week, an annual awareness campaign aimed at highlighting the benefits of exercise for health and well-being for all Australians, regardless of their age, background or current health status.

This year's theme is all about bringing attention to all the misinformation around health and exercise that is out there, and the importance of seeking advice from a qualified exercise professional who can provide personalised guidance based on the unique needs of the individual.

“As Accredited Exercise Physiologists (AEP) working in the exercise-oncology space, we have specialised expertise in this area and understand the implications patients undertaking cancer-treatment face everyday.”

Grace highlights the importance of tailoring exercise to the individual, and ensuring what is prescribed is safe and appropriate depending on individual diagnosis, treatment and side effects that may be experienced.

For those living with cancer, working with an AEP and accessing the correct information to support their treatment and journey is crucial.

Grace adds: “Our team is passionate about implementing the latest research findings into our clinical practice, to provide the most up-to-date education and exercise prescription to help improve the lives of those living with cancer.”

For more resources, visit Exercise Right.