Mrs Christie was just 39 when she was diagnosed with breast cancer.

A week before Christmas 2015, she noticed a lump and testing revealed it was cancer, and that it had spread to lymph nodes and a nearby pectoral muscle.

Mrs Christie has undergone a range of treatments including chemotherapy, radiation and a double mastectomy, and “so far, so good”.

For survivors, exercise can present challenges. The treatments can have physical side-affects which impact workout options, which is where the YWCA NSW’s Encore program comes in.

The free program, which runs for eight weeks, is a combination of exercise and information sharing, as well as an opportunity for women to meet others who may have had similar experiences.

Mrs Christie is now a program facilitator after initially attending as a participant.

“It’s a great program and a great way to give each other encouragement,” she said.

The next Wagga program begins on February 6. To enrol, call 1800 305 150 or email encore@ywcansw.com.au