Ankit's Story

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"We’ve come to ease our minds, to relax, to take away all the tension that we’ve got in life."

Canal trips have a slower pace than those on a yacht — perfect for Ankit to take control of his recovery at a speed which worked for him.

Ankit has had health issues since being diagnosed with a brain tumour in 2009. The yacht trips were hard because of his mobility, so he decided to give canal boating a go.

"Because of my mobility, and my sight has gone weak, the canal boat is better for me. There's lots more space, there's a disabled toilet and walk-in shower.

"This is more relaxing because you can just steer the boat and go at a smooth pace."

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"You’re able to chat to each other and enjoy each other’s company more."

With his mobility in mind, Ankit was anxious about the new environment and whether he would be able to take part.

“I was actually very worried. I wanted to know if the boat would actually be suited for me, the height of the boat, would I be able to walk around with my cane.

"This boat was quite open, you’re able to walk around safely and you’ve got a lovely place to sit down and a lovely place to sleep. It’s just amazing.”

With the help of his crew, he was able to open locks on the canal, something he said was ‘fantastic’ and ‘amazing’.

"We’ve come on this trip to ease our minds, to relax, to take away all the tension that we’ve got in life."

It meant Ankit was able to relax and get to know his crewmates, which he found easier than on a yacht trip.

“Because there are less people, you’re able to chat to each other and enjoy each other’s company more. Because everyone is loving and wants to support each other, they also want to help each other out.

"We have become a family. We’ve come on this trip to ease our minds, to relax, to take away all the tension that we’ve got in life.”

Housebound and unable to travel long distances, the trip gave Ankit a sense of independence and confidence, realising along the way that he is still capable to do the things he wants to do.

Feeling inspired or want to help others like Ankit?

If you, or someone you know, could benefit from Trust support, or you want to make a difference to young lives after cancer, here's how you can...

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