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'Walking gives me a lot of time to think'

MY RUNNING LIFE: Jacquie Daniel has kept up her walking regime despite being diagnosed with breast cancer and undergoing chemotherapy…

MY RUNNING LIFE
Mon Oct 1 2012 - 01:00

MY RUNNING LIFE:Jacquie Daniel has kept up her walking regime despite being diagnosed with breast cancer and undergoing chemotherapy

When did you start exercising and why?I started exercising a long time ago, as in going for walks with family members or with my baby (in her buggy).

I exercise more now because I was diagnosed with breast cancer last December. When my chemotherapy started in February I wanted to walk more because I was put on steroids and I heard that you can gain weight, which I did not want.

How has your treatment changed your exercise?It hasn't changed it at all. I still walk at every chance I get because with chemotherapy you can be very sick and tired, which in my case did not happen.

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I was never sick (only one time I was in hospital as my blood levels where low), and through my seven months of this treatment I had two bad days. But because of the support of my partner Carl and family members it was all a breeze.

What benefits has it brought over the past year?I have met a lot of wonderful people.

The best thing about the exercise?Walking gives me a lot of time – if walking by myself – to think and to tell myself things could be worse. I'm still here, so never look back.

Where's your regular route?Clontarf and Raheny.

What are you training for?Because I've been diagnosed with cancer, and am only 27, my partner's aunt asked me to do a photo for ARC Cancer Support Centre for a Torch of Hope Relay that is being held on October 14th. Me and a lot of family and friends will be taking part. We all go out walking as much as we can.

Your aim for the year?Be as happy as I can be and treasure every moment.

Do you like to get out in the morning or evening?Mornings are best if the weather is okay.

Good or bad diet?I have a fairly good diet, eating healthily. We are all allowed a day off, which is a Friday night for Chinese takeaway and a glass of wine.

What do you wear on your feet?Good runners.

What's on your iPod when running?Sometimes I would listen to my iPod or have the radio on my phone.

Any niggly injuries?No.

Ever been chased by an animal?Ha, ha, no.

Favourite motivational tip?Be positive in mind and body and never look back.

The ARC Cancer Support Centre Torch of Hope Relay around Dublin Bay is on Sunday 14th October. A torch will be passed between teams, with cancer survivors completing the last kilometre: arcchallenges.com