Paul Hampson, 69, from Middlesbrough, was referred to the group in January after being diagnosed with bladder cancer.
He said the sessions were “a little safe place for a couple of hours, twice a week”.
Hampson said he also found it difficult to speak to others once getting the diagnosis, as he felt they did not understand what he was going through.
“Some people are a little bit unsure of how to treat you, unsure of what to say, it makes them uncomfortable, because cancer, that word makes people feel uncomfortable,” he added.
He has lost 2 st (12.7kg) and improved his fitness, since joining, which he said helps him through his treatment.
The sessions have been held twice a week since January for cancer patients to build up their strength ready for treatment or surgery.
The first half is focused on physical exercise, walking, lifting weights and cardio – then people are given a chance to to sit around a table and share their experiences.
The project was initially funded by the foundation, working with University Hospitals Tees (UHT), which provides the patient referrals.
The first nine months saw 55 people take up the sessions.
In September, the programme was given funding by the English Football League, to become part of the Versus Cancer scheme, which is held at football clubs across the country.
In partnership with the Northern Cancer Alliance, the programme now provides post-treatment rehabilitation and recovery sessions.
