From chemotherapy to 500 consecutive weeks of movement
Even during six months of chemotherapy and two weeks in hospital, Sigrid Ferrari never gave up on her weekly exercise goal streak: "In hospital, I walked the corridors and climbed stairs to reach my weekly goal."
From chemotherapy to 500 consecutive weeks of movement: Sigrid's story of strength
When Sigrid Ferrari first signed up for Vitality Active Rewards, her goal was to maintain her Diamond Vitality status. But over time, that weekly goal became much more than a tick-box exercise, it became a personal mission.
Now, as she nears her 500th weekly exercise goal streak, Sigrid often reflects on the quiet determination that carried her through, especially during one of the most challenging chapters of her life.
A director at an engineering and manufacturing company, Sigrid leads on IT and HR, drawing on her BSc and BCom degrees. While her work is technical, her approach to health is deeply personal. "I've always believed that if you care, you track. Know your steps. Know your points," she says.
Her favourite ways to stay active include spinning, stand-up paddleboarding, and wing surfing. But she's quick to point out that movement doesn't have to be extreme to count. "People forget that cleaning your house for an hour and a half can earn you 300 points," she laughs.
Her commitment was tested when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. During six months of chemotherapy and two weeks in hospital, Sigrid never gave up on her health goals. "Even in hospital, I walked the corridors and climbed stairs. When the physio came to 'mobilise' me, I still managed to reach 80% of my heart rate," she recalls. That determination became her daily routine in hospital, helping her stay mentally strong and physically engaged during treatment.
She also knows how to balance drive with grace. "Some days, I just don't feel like it and that's okay. I usually aim to earn most of my points on weekends so the week feels manageable."
Sigrid credits her lifestyle for helping her navigate not just cancer, but life's everyday demands with energy and resilience. "After so many years of consistent exercise, it's hard to separate the benefits. It's just who I am now."
Her advice to others is simple but powerful: "Don't stop your workout at 58 minutes. Don't go to bed with 9,850 steps. Those last few moments are where the magic, and the habit, lives."