Q&A with Larissa MacLean, Biokineticist and Fitness Trainer at The Well, Cayman Islands’ first immersive wellness experience integrating a clinical and holistic approach to care.
What service do you provide through our Wellness Program?
I studied Human Movement Science and specialized in Biokinetics, so my primary focus is on those who need help with strength and mobility training pre/post-surgery or through injury/illness recovery. Going through surgery/radiation/chemo takes a significant toll on the body, and jumping straight back into sports and a regular workout routine can be really challenging. I usually begin by doing a physical assessment and looking at the individual’s fitness, strength and range-of-motion. Using information gathered during this assessment, I provide exercises that will bridge the gap between where the individual currently is, and where they want to be. My end goal for all my BCF clients is that they have the strength and range-of-motion to do all activities of daily living, and are able to safely engage in physical activity once again.
When did you start partnering with BCF and why?
I first started working with the BCF in 2018. It was my first year on island, and a physiotherapist I worked closely with suggested we connect because of my background in rehabilitative exercise. Personally, this has been a really special journey for me as I watched my grandmother go through all the stages of her breast cancer treatment, and have seen her thrive since her recovery. Being able to help others on their journey is a privilege, and I’m always amazed by the resilience of those I meet through this programme.
Why does your personal training help breast cancer patients and their families in Cayman?
I’ve had clients who require the use of their upper body to make a living – being unable to hold and manipulate a mop or a paintbrush when you are a cleaner or painter makes earning a living impossible. For some of the individuals I’ve worked with, their primary goal is to return to work to provide an income for their household. For some, the setback has a profound impact on their mental health and motivation to “start over”. Having a trainer who will push and encourage you to build up your strength and fitness is often the catalyst for bettering their mental health as well. I’ve also had clients who simply want to reintegrate into group exercise classes but have no idea where to start. My role is to give them a framework for building back up, and educate them on any physical boundaries that may be relevant to them.
Are there any tips to help breast cancer patients and survivors during their breast cancer journey?
Nominate someone who is motivated and who loves you to hold you accountable. You’re not always going to feel like doing the things you need to do, to get to where you want to. Set SMART goals (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound) and share them with the person who will be cheering you on. Families – learn more about health & wellness surrounding cancer recovery and participate where possible to keep your loved one motivated. It’s difficult to order a salad when everyone around you is eating deep fried processed food.
Can you tell us a memorable experience since being part of our Wellness Program?
I had a lady start sessions with me who could hardly raise her arms next to her head, but needed to get her range back to return to work. We did regular, short sessions, and she did some homework in between. I remember the first time she pressed 2lb dumbbells overhead. Along with her increase in strength, I noticed her whole mood shift and lighten as she got stronger. It was so encouraging to see the positive impact of being able to do things that most of us take for granted and really put things in perspective for me.
An interesting fact about you?
During my first year here I found a stunned rooster who had been caught by a dog. He wasn’t bleeding but didn’t look ok. I called the vet who advised me to put him in a dark room so he could recover and that he should be ok after an hour or so. I carried him home and left him in our bathroom with the lights off. An hour later I went to check on him and discovered that he had made a full recovery, but also realized that I now had to catch a very flappy rooster and set him free outside.