YCE goes to Sicily for YARN's Healthy Lifestyles Bootcamp
The Healthy Lifestyle Bootcamp took place at Città del Mare in Terrasini, Sicily as part of the of the European Youth Cancer Network (YARN) project and it was organised by CEIPES ETS in collaboration with Youth Cancer Europe.
Bringing together 49 members of the Youth Cancer Council (YCC), the programme engaged young people with lived experience of cancer in a range of activities centred on healthy living, wellbeing, and peer connection.
Through a combination of practical workshops and educational sessions, participants explored topics such as balanced nutrition, physical activity, mental wellbeing, and sustainable habits, while also sharing experiences and building meaningful connections with peers from across Europe.
Programme highlights included:
- Yoga and mindfulness sessions focused on breathing techniques and gentle movement;
- Expert-led discussions on nutrition led by a professional nutritionist from ISMETT;
- A healthy cooking class organised together with Sicilian chef Peppe Agliano, inspired by Sicilian culinary traditions and focused on the benefits of the Mediterranean diet;
- A trekking experience to Capo Rama guided by Fiato Corto, where participants had the opportunity to connect with nature and discover the local Sicilian flora and fauna.
As the bootcamp came to an end, participants shared their experiences and takeaways from the journey:
- “One of the most meaningful parts was the reunions: seeing familiar faces again while also meeting new people who instantly felt important.”
- “As someone whose life was changed by cancer, spaces like this remind me that survivorship is not only about recovery. It is also about friendship, advocacy, joy, movement, purpose, and allowing yourself to dream again.”
- “I’m leaving Sicily feeling grateful, proud, humbled, and hopeful for what comes next. The future of youth cancer advocacy is bright because of the incredible people behind these moments.”
