Stéphanie Motton: Making rugby a weapon against cancer
A therapeutic tool
Originally, the creation of the club was experimental. “The oncology center in which I work was contacted by the French rugby federation in 2016. They wanted to set up a pilot action to test the therapeutic tool that is the practice of sport,” recalls Stéphanie. 5 players per team, tackling prohibited, unlimited substitutions during a match… The rules reassure the first patients concerned… And the other participants. Because hospital staff also take part in the sessions. A no-brainer for Stéphanie: “It’s an important persuasion criterion. Even before perhaps the therapeutic benefits: when we leave the consultation room, we meet in the field, that changes everything!”
His enthusiasm is contagious and is gradually gaining ground: the club continues to grow. “When a treatment proves itself, we want to share it with as many people as possible,” she exclaims. And for good reason, the benefits of training are no longer in doubt. According to ANSES, regular physical activity would prevent 20% to 25% of breast, colon and endometrial cancers, independently of other risk factors. “Players benefit from the benefits of healthy sport, which supports them in remission and also limits the risk of relapses in 30 to 40% of cases,” adds the woman who is also a mother of two children.
Regain confidence
But beyond that, sport pushes you to regain confidence, to overcome physical challenges. “In rugby, the players move forward in line, the team progresses together: there is no situation of failure. The solidarity that must be shown and the values transmitted by this combat sport are essential. In rugby, you get used to touch again. My patients were wounded in their flesh as in their heart. Practicing this sport allows you to regain confidence in your body and your physical abilities,” adds Stéphanie.
During matches, the captain is a patient, it is she who gives instructions to the players. Relations with the doctor are thus disrupted. “At the hospital, I see patients for bad news. The Rubies club makes it possible to share moments of joy. It also fuels my personal motivation,” continues the woman who took training as a trainer to “be sure to understand and apply the rules”. In fact, this original Marseillaise was more familiar with the rules of football.
Smiling, Stéphanie Motton is a woman with a busy schedule but who is not in a hurry. And his determination can be seen both on the field and in his medical office.
