The Hard Truths About Health; Gratitude, Exercise, and What Cancer Taught Me

We talk about health as if it’s simple.
Eat better. Exercise more. Stay positive.

But here’s what I’ve learned through my work, my family, and my own life: health isn’t simple. It’s messy. It’s unfair. And it can change in an instant.

This past year has forced me to face that head-on.

Gratitude vs Toxic Positivity

You’ve probably heard it: “just stay positive” or “good vibes only.”
It’s said to people struggling with illness, stress, or burnout as if positive thinking alone can erase pain.

But that’s not gratitude. That’s toxic positivity; silencing real human emotions under a smiley mask.

Gratitude, when done properly, is powerful. It’s not about ignoring hardship. It’s about holding both truths: life can be hard, and there are still things to be thankful for.

I’ve seen clients grow stronger by practicing gratitude this way. Not by pretending their struggles don’t exist, but by grounding themselves in what does matter alongside the hard. That balance builds resilience. That balance gets you through.

The Myth of Being “Too Unfit to Exercise”

This one makes my blood boil.

I’ve worked with people living with cancer, diabetes, obesity, and long-term mental health struggles. Every single one of them, at some point, has said: “I’m too unfit to exercise.” 

And too often, the system reinforces it. Doctors, trainers, even family members tell them to wait until they’re “fitter.” But waiting only makes things harder.

The truth is, you’re never too unfit to move.
What you need is the right kind of movement: safe, adapted, evidence-based. Something that builds you up instead of breaking you down.

Movement is medicine. And if you’ve been told otherwise, you’ve been failed by a system that doesn’t understand you.

What Cancer Taught Me

My dad’s cancer changed everything for me. Watching him fight for care; not just against the disease but against being dismissed... is what pushed me into this work.

And now, here I am, waiting for my own breast clinic appointment after noticing changes. It’s terrifying.

But it’s also a wake-up call.

It’s made me more determined than ever to be strong and healthy, not for vanity but for resilience. For my girls. For my future.

Cancer has been my greatest (and most unwanted) teacher. It taught me health is never guaranteed. But it also taught me that how I fuel my body, how I move it, how I treat it... that’s in my control.

The Lesson

Whether you’re facing illness, struggling with motivation, or just stuck in the myth that you’re “too unfit” the truth is this:
You don’t need perfection. You don’t need the “right time.”
You need consistency, compassion, and the courage to start now.

Because health isn’t a luxury. It’s the foundation of everything. And later might be too late.

👉 If this resonates with you and you’re ready to take ownership of your health. before you’re forced to, I’d love to help. Enquire today and let's have a chat!