An 85-year-old cancer patient is a shining example of how staying active and maintaining a positive outlook is the key to longevity and vitality.
Sheila Mason, of Kendal, is taking part in charity CancerCare’s walking challenge Every Step Counts.
CancerCare provides complementary therapies and free support services to children and adults across South Cumbria and North Lancashire who have been affected by cancer, life-shortening illness and bereavement.
Shelia, who regularly heads out on solo expeditions and is also a member of the outdoor club K Fellfarers, has always been a keen walker.
Sheila said: “I’ve always loved the fresh air and exercise. Staying active is the most important thing in life, whether you’ve had cancer or not, and whether you’re young or old.”
Shelia was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin lymphoma 15 years ago. She learnt she had the disease after a second operation on a melanoma on her knee.
Shelia recalled the moment she received the diagnosis. She said: “The consultant asked me if I wanted the good or the bad news. He said that while the melanoma hadn’t spread, I did have something called Non-Hodgkin lymphoma. I chose not to have treatment at the time. The doctor said to me that I should get on with enjoying my life. I fully took that advice and now I do just that!”
Shelia is a long-term supporter of CancerCare and she is one of the charity’s most consistent crafters. She creates a range of seasonal items for CancerCare to sell during the year, including bunnies, winter hats, festive gonks, doves and aprons.
Shelia is still a working woman at 85 – she makes samples and works in production for the Kendal-based business CoolCrafting.
Shelia first spotted CancerCare’s Every Step Counts challenge advertised in the charity’s Kendal centre.
Every Step Counts is a family-friendly walking challenge which is all about taking time out of our busy lives to explore the breathtaking landscape in and around the local area. Upon sign up, participants will receive a handmade knitted bird and a free Walker’s Guide, which includes details of 12 local routes.
Shelia has completed two walks so far, though she now has friends looking to tag along on her next adventures. She has currently raised £300 for her efforts.
Shelia takes her handmade bird, Chirpy, along with her on her walks. No two knitted birds are the same and each one has been crafted by CancerCare volunteers.
“I’ve only just scratched the surface with my fundraising,” said Shelia, who is working on getting more Every Step Counts routes in the bag this spring and summer.
When asked how she stays active into her 80s, Shelia said: “I’ve seen people have horrible things wrong with them completely give up. But you must not. A lot of it has to do with your mindset; my mantra is always mind over matter.
“You’ve got to be positive in life. Even when I feel a bit lonely or down, I would walk down to the shop just to see people. I’ve always worked, too, and I’ve always tried to keep my life as normal as possible as I’ve gotten older.
“When you’re on your own you’ve got to be positive. I have my family if I need them, but I also try to look after myself the very best I can.”
