Outside of their work helping local people in need feel better, many of CancerCare’s therapists have extraordinary hobbies. Debra Edson is CancerCare’s Nutritional Therapist. She advises and supports clients who are struggling with their nutrition, but in her spare time Debs teaches Tai Chi. To celebrate her 60th birthday this October, she is hosting a beginner’s Tai Chi session – and everyone’s invited!
On 17th October 2025, from 10am to 11am, Debs will be hosting a virtual Tai Chi taster session. Whether you are a complete beginner or already know a few moves, she would love for you to join this gentle session designed to give you a flavour of this ancient Chinese martial art.
The 30/40 minute session is free, but donations to CancerCare are very much appreciated.
There are limited in-person sessions available at both Kendal and Lancaster centres, however we are encouraging groups to meet up for their sessions, streaming Debs in via Zoom. Perhaps you could meet with friends or family ahead of joining the session?
Debs has been working as a Dietitian at CancerCare for two years.
“I have learned what a privilege it is to get to 60 years old,” said Debs. “I teach a form of Tai Chi called Qigong. This is an accessible, gentle exercise that can support leg strength, body flexibility and is remarkably relaxing. It can be done standing or seated, and I am keen to share this practice with anyone wanting to move who is not able to access more traditional exercise.
“My dream is to have 60 people, either face to face or via Zoom, doing a short Tai Chi set together, wrapping a big CancerCare hug of Tai Chi around Lancashire and South Cumbria.
“The session is given for free but on a principle of dharma or reciprocity, whereby if you feel you benefit from the session you offer a donation to CancerCare.
“This kind of session usually costs around £9, but if people cannot send this then anything is gratefully received. Equally, if you can give more you would be supporting those who cannot and also supporting/encouraging more activities like this.”
“It would be lovely if groups joined in; they could be together at home or all dial in separately but be together in the class. We already have some sheltered accommodation joining us, care homes and gyms. The class can be taken anywhere there is a large screen and enough room for movement.”
To book Debs’ Tai Chi Birthday Event, please email her: debra@meditatingspaniel.co.uk or have a chat when you next see her in and around the CancerCare centres.
For more information on Debs and her experience, please visit her website: www.meditatingspaniel.co.uk