<![CDATA[Living with & Beyond Cancer]]>Most cancer survivors learn to live with the shadow of the disease. But what happens when fear, systems failure, and personal trauma collide? In this deeply authentic episode, twice-diagnosed kidney cancer patient and counselor Steve Pointon shares his extraordinary journey from shock to resilience—and how he’s now turning his pain into purpose.

You’ll discover the raw truth about the mental and practical battles cancer patients face—covering everything from life-saving treatments like immunotherapy (IL-2), to navigating the crushing bureaucracy of benefits and employment systems, and the loneliness of waiting on scans. Steve dives into the often-overlooked emotional toll, the importance of peer support, and the power of storytelling in healing and advocacy.

We break down:

  • The moment doctors dropped a terminal diagnosis on Steve, and how he fought to find hope
  • The hidden struggles of returning to work after cancer and fighting for workplace justice
  • Why systemic failures in healthcare, benefits, and employment make survival even harder
  • How community support, charities, and real stories can be lifelines during the darkest times
  • The inspiring ways Steve is giving back—becoming a counselor, patient advocate, and international speaker

This episode is perfect for anyone fighting their own cancer battle, supporting loved ones, or advocates pushing for systemic change. If you’re ready to hear the unfiltered truth about what it really takes to survive—and rewrite the narrative of beyond cancer—hit play now.

Steve Pointon is a cancer survivor, counselor, and advocate for patient rights. His story of resilience, advocacy, and transformation highlights the importance of community, systemic reform, and hope.

Don’t miss this raw, empowering conversation—because survival is more than remission; it’s a journey we all share.

]]>www.stevepointoncounsellingamdsupport.co.ukRiverside.fm (https://riverside.com)Sun, 05 Jul 2026 14:36:56 GMTSun, 01 Feb 2026 08:00:01 GMT60Steve Pointon<p>Most cancer survivors learn to live with the shadow of the disease. But what happens when fear, systems failure, and personal trauma collide? In this deeply authentic episode, twice-diagnosed kidney cancer patient and counselor Steve Pointon shares his extraordinary journey from shock to resilience—and how he’s now turning his pain into purpose.</p><p>You’ll discover the raw truth about the mental and practical battles cancer patients face—covering everything from life-saving treatments like immunotherapy (IL-2), to navigating the crushing bureaucracy of benefits and employment systems, and the loneliness of waiting on scans. Steve dives into the often-overlooked emotional toll, the importance of peer support, and the power of storytelling in healing and advocacy.</p><p>We break down:</p><ul><li>The moment doctors dropped a terminal diagnosis on Steve, and how he fought to find hope</li><li>The hidden struggles of returning to work after cancer and fighting for workplace justice</li><li>Why systemic failures in healthcare, benefits, and employment make survival even harder</li><li>How community support, charities, and real stories can be lifelines during the darkest times</li><li>The inspiring ways Steve is giving back—becoming a counselor, patient advocate, and international speaker</li></ul><p>This episode is perfect for anyone fighting their own cancer battle, supporting loved ones, or advocates pushing for systemic change. If you’re ready to hear the unfiltered truth about what it really takes to survive—and rewrite the narrative of beyond cancer—hit play now.</p><p>Steve Pointon is a cancer survivor, counselor, and advocate for patient rights. His story of resilience, advocacy, and transformation highlights the importance of community, systemic reform, and hope.</p><p>Don’t miss this raw, empowering conversation—because survival is more than remission; it’s a journey we all share.</p>episodicSteve Pointoninfo@stevepointoncounsellingandsupport.co.ukno<![CDATA[Episode 12 - World Kidney Cancer Day Special - Action Kidney Cancer - Emotional Wellbeing]]>The podcast episode features a discussion on the importance of emotional well-being and the support networks available for kidney cancer patients. It delves into the initial reactions to kidney cancer diagnosis, coping strategies, the role of support networks, and the value of peer support and information sharing. The episode also highlights the access to clinical trials and the significance of volunteering and paying it forward.

Takeaways

  • Emotional well-being is crucial for kidney cancer patients
  • Peer support and information sharing are invaluable for patients
  • Access to clinical trials and support services is essential for comprehensive care

Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction to Living With and Beyond Cancer
  • 08:44 Support and Coping Strategies
  • 14:04 The Value of Peer Support and Information Sharing
  • 20:31 The Role of Support Networks in Emotional Well-being
  • 29:26 Support Services and Resources
  • 36:09 Accessing Clinical Trials and Information
]]>39394ae1-23e6-4c01-a839-50ae355b3649Sun, 21 Jun 2026 13:03:58 GMT<p>The podcast episode features a discussion on the importance of emotional well-being and the support networks available for kidney cancer patients. It delves into the initial reactions to kidney cancer diagnosis, coping strategies, the role of support networks, and the value of peer support and information sharing. The episode also highlights the access to clinical trials and the significance of volunteering and paying it forward.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Emotional well-being is crucial for kidney cancer patients</li><li>Peer support and information sharing are invaluable for patients</li><li>Access to clinical trials and support services is essential for comprehensive care</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Introduction to Living With and Beyond Cancer</li><li>08:44 Support and Coping Strategies</li><li>14:04 The Value of Peer Support and Information Sharing</li><li>20:31 The Role of Support Networks in Emotional Well-being</li><li>29:26 Support Services and Resources</li><li>36:09 Accessing Clinical Trials and Information</li></ul>no00:41:16112Episode 12 - World Kidney Cancer Day Special - Action Kidney Cancer - Emotional Wellbeingfull<![CDATA[Episode 11 - Is Mental Health Support for Cancer Patients is Falling Short? - Dr Alex Turner]]>This episode features Dr. Alex Turner, a psychologist and cancer survivor, who shares her journey of being diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer and her approach to recovery. Dr. Alex also discusses her career in sports psychology and the impact of environment on performance. The conversation delves into the late diagnosis, coping with dismissal, taking ownership of diagnosis and recovery, and the need for mental health support and trauma of diagnosis. The conversation delves into the impact of a cancer diagnosis, the mental health challenges associated with it, and the need for psychological support. It also explores the importance of psychological safety, emotions, acceptance, and well-being in the context of cancer recovery. The discussion highlights the need for more psychological support for cancer patients and the significance of celebrating milestones in the recovery journey.

Takeaways

  • Late cancer diagnosis can be traumatic and may require a holistic approach to recovery.
  • The impact of environment on performance and recovery is significant in both sports and cancer treatment. Psychological support is crucial for cancer patients
  • Well-being and recovery are interconnected

Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction to Living With and Beyond Cancer
  • 06:03 The Development of Psychology in Sport
  • 11:27 Late Diagnosis and Coping with Dismissal
  • 20:35 Mental Health Support and Trauma of Diagnosis
  • 28:12 Impact of Cancer Diagnosis
  • 36:15 Acceptance and Expectations
  • 44:34 Personal Health Journey
  • 50:49 Well-being and Recovery
]]>ba01a6a3-33fd-4afb-8a96-598fe3e6c26fSun, 07 Jun 2026 06:57:24 GMT<p>This episode features Dr. Alex Turner, a psychologist and cancer survivor, who shares her journey of being diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer and her approach to recovery. Dr. Alex also discusses her career in sports psychology and the impact of environment on performance. The conversation delves into the late diagnosis, coping with dismissal, taking ownership of diagnosis and recovery, and the need for mental health support and trauma of diagnosis. The conversation delves into the impact of a cancer diagnosis, the mental health challenges associated with it, and the need for psychological support. It also explores the importance of psychological safety, emotions, acceptance, and well-being in the context of cancer recovery. The discussion highlights the need for more psychological support for cancer patients and the significance of celebrating milestones in the recovery journey.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Late cancer diagnosis can be traumatic and may require a holistic approach to recovery.</li><li>The impact of environment on performance and recovery is significant in both sports and cancer treatment. Psychological support is crucial for cancer patients</li><li>Well-being and recovery are interconnected</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Introduction to Living With and Beyond Cancer</li><li>06:03 The Development of Psychology in Sport</li><li>11:27 Late Diagnosis and Coping with Dismissal</li><li>20:35 Mental Health Support and Trauma of Diagnosis</li><li>28:12 Impact of Cancer Diagnosis</li><li>36:15 Acceptance and Expectations</li><li>44:34 Personal Health Journey</li><li>50:49 Well-being and Recovery</li></ul>no00:50:43111Episode 11 - Is Mental Health Support for Cancer Patients is Falling Short? - Dr Alex Turnerfull<![CDATA[Episode 10 - From Cancer Diagnosis to Making A Real Difference For Others - Fay Peace]]>Faye shares her journey of being diagnosed with gynaecological cancer, the challenges of getting a correct diagnosis, and the impact of cancer treatment on her mental health. Her story highlights the importance of early detection and the need for better support for mental health during cancer treatment. The conversation delves into life after cancer treatment, the impact of the 'no evidence of disease' diagnosis, the anxiety surrounding regular checkups, turning personal experience into advocacy, and the achievements in cancer advocacy. Takeaways include the lasting impact of cancer on life and the importance of self-advocacy in healthcare.

Takeaways

  • Early cancer symptoms can be misdiagnosed or overlooked
  • The impact of cancer treatment on mental health Life after cancer is never the same
  • Advocating for oneself is crucial in the healthcare journey

Chapters

  • 00:00 Faye's Cancer Journey Begins
  • 08:00 The Diagnosis and Treatment
  • 23:03 Coping with Treatment and Mental Health
  • 31:49 Life After Treatment
  • 41:33 Turning Experience into Advocacy
  • 53:31 Advocacy Achievements
]]>89c2bf69-1c5f-4ed1-82f2-c7a33d49005aMon, 01 Jun 2026 19:26:31 GMT<p>Faye shares her journey of being diagnosed with gynaecological cancer, the challenges of getting a correct diagnosis, and the impact of cancer treatment on her mental health. Her story highlights the importance of early detection and the need for better support for mental health during cancer treatment. The conversation delves into life after cancer treatment, the impact of the 'no evidence of disease' diagnosis, the anxiety surrounding regular checkups, turning personal experience into advocacy, and the achievements in cancer advocacy. Takeaways include the lasting impact of cancer on life and the importance of self-advocacy in healthcare.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Early cancer symptoms can be misdiagnosed or overlooked</li><li>The impact of cancer treatment on mental health Life after cancer is never the same</li><li>Advocating for oneself is crucial in the healthcare journey</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Faye's Cancer Journey Begins</li><li>08:00 The Diagnosis and Treatment</li><li>23:03 Coping with Treatment and Mental Health</li><li>31:49 Life After Treatment</li><li>41:33 Turning Experience into Advocacy</li><li>53:31 Advocacy Achievements</li></ul>no00:54:34Episode 10 - From Cancer Diagnosis to Making A Real Difference For Others - Fay Peacefull<![CDATA[Episode 9 - From moving in together to heart brake: How Love and Loss Unfolded in Just 5 months ]]>The podcast episode features Tracy's journey as a carer for her partner, Graham, who faced challenges with remote diagnosis, delayed diagnosis, and a lack of support and care in the healthcare system. The story unfolds with the transition to a new living accommodation, Graham's health decline, a hospital ordeal, a terminal diagnosis, financial and work challenges, and the lack of compassion and care in some aspects of the healthcare system. The conversation delves into the journey of resilience and emotional support in the face of adversity. Tracy's experiences highlight the importance of closeness, emotional support, and the challenges faced in the healthcare system. The story also emphasizes the significance of anticipatory grief and the coping strategies adopted during difficult times.

Takeaways

  • Remote diagnosis challenges
  • Impact of delayed diagnosis
  • Lack of support and care in healthcare system Resilience in the face of adversity
  • The importance of support and closeness in difficult times

Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview
  • 06:25 Challenges with Remote Diagnosis and Care
  • 13:57 Hospital Ordeal and Lack of Support
  • 21:11 Terminal Diagnosis and Emotional Impact
  • 27:28 Financial and Work Challenges
  • 33:53 Lack of Compassion and Care in Healthcare System
  • 39:12 Coping and Emotional Support
  • 44:46 Challenges and Christmas
  • 50:25 Marriage and Emotional Moments
  • 58:44 Challenges with Hospice Staff
]]>06c22c35-6757-45d8-be8a-d92d5587be57Sun, 24 May 2026 10:02:43 GMT<p>The podcast episode features Tracy's journey as a carer for her partner, Graham, who faced challenges with remote diagnosis, delayed diagnosis, and a lack of support and care in the healthcare system. The story unfolds with the transition to a new living accommodation, Graham's health decline, a hospital ordeal, a terminal diagnosis, financial and work challenges, and the lack of compassion and care in some aspects of the healthcare system. The conversation delves into the journey of resilience and emotional support in the face of adversity. Tracy's experiences highlight the importance of closeness, emotional support, and the challenges faced in the healthcare system. The story also emphasizes the significance of anticipatory grief and the coping strategies adopted during difficult times.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Remote diagnosis challenges</li><li>Impact of delayed diagnosis</li><li>Lack of support and care in healthcare system Resilience in the face of adversity</li><li>The importance of support and closeness in difficult times</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview</li><li>06:25 Challenges with Remote Diagnosis and Care</li><li>13:57 Hospital Ordeal and Lack of Support</li><li>21:11 Terminal Diagnosis and Emotional Impact</li><li>27:28 Financial and Work Challenges</li><li>33:53 Lack of Compassion and Care in Healthcare System</li><li>39:12 Coping and Emotional Support</li><li>44:46 Challenges and Christmas</li><li>50:25 Marriage and Emotional Moments</li><li>58:44 Challenges with Hospice Staff</li></ul>no01:00:31Episode 9 - From moving in together to heart brake: How Love and Loss Unfolded in Just 5 months full<![CDATA[Episode 8 - From Caregiver to Patient - Richard Barker]]>The Living With and Beyond Cancer podcast features Richard Barker's journey with kidney cancer, including his experience as a caregiver, post-operative recovery, and life changes. Richard shares his challenges, coping mechanisms, and advocacy for cancer patients, along with his plans for life after cancer.

Takeaways

  • Caregiver support is crucial
  • Post-operative recovery can be challenging
  • Advocacy and support are essential for cancer patients

Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction to Living With and Beyond Cancer Podcast
  • 08:48 Caring for a Loved One with Cancer
  • 17:08 Post-Operative Recovery and Life Changes
  • 29:15 Challenges and Coping Mechanisms
  • 43:45 Support and Advocacy for Cancer Patients
  • 53:18 Life After Cancer and Future Plans
]]>2e185a5e-2870-4d1e-96af-f7740894a9f3Sun, 10 May 2026 06:06:21 GMT<p>The Living With and Beyond Cancer podcast features Richard Barker's journey with kidney cancer, including his experience as a caregiver, post-operative recovery, and life changes. Richard shares his challenges, coping mechanisms, and advocacy for cancer patients, along with his plans for life after cancer.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Caregiver support is crucial</li><li>Post-operative recovery can be challenging</li><li>Advocacy and support are essential for cancer patients</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Introduction to Living With and Beyond Cancer Podcast</li><li>08:48 Caring for a Loved One with Cancer</li><li>17:08 Post-Operative Recovery and Life Changes</li><li>29:15 Challenges and Coping Mechanisms</li><li>43:45 Support and Advocacy for Cancer Patients</li><li>53:18 Life After Cancer and Future Plans</li></ul>no00:44:1218Episode 8 - From Caregiver to Patient - Richard Barkerfull<![CDATA[Episode 7 - Real life treatment struggles - Ali Stripling]]>The conversation delves into Ali's journey with anal cancer, from the initial symptoms and diagnosis to the challenges of treatment and its impact on her daily life. It also highlights the importance of patient advocacy and shared decision-making in the treatment process. The conversation covers Ali's journey through cancer treatment, recovery, and the challenges she faced post-treatment. It delves into the emotional struggles, reintegration into society, and the importance of support and awareness.

Takeaways

  • Understanding the impact of cancer on daily life
  • The importance of patient advocacy and shared decision-making in cancer treatment Cancer treatment and recovery are physically and emotionally challenging
  • Support and awareness are crucial for post-treatment reintegration

Chapters

  • 00:00 The Journey Begins
  • 06:00 Acceptance and Realization
  • 11:22 Challenges and Coping Mechanisms
  • 22:27 Impact on Daily Life
  • 30:04 Treatment Challenges and Realization
  • 35:26 Dietary Challenges and Coping
  • 41:36 Stigma and Awareness of Anal Cancer
  • 49:43 Reintegration and Support
  • 57:36 Emotional Struggles and Relationships
]]>dcdd2808-56d7-4388-8c91-884d88c34c32Sun, 26 Apr 2026 06:38:02 GMT<p>The conversation delves into Ali's journey with anal cancer, from the initial symptoms and diagnosis to the challenges of treatment and its impact on her daily life. It also highlights the importance of patient advocacy and shared decision-making in the treatment process. The conversation covers Ali's journey through cancer treatment, recovery, and the challenges she faced post-treatment. It delves into the emotional struggles, reintegration into society, and the importance of support and awareness.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Understanding the impact of cancer on daily life</li><li>The importance of patient advocacy and shared decision-making in cancer treatment Cancer treatment and recovery are physically and emotionally challenging</li><li>Support and awareness are crucial for post-treatment reintegration</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 The Journey Begins</li><li>06:00 Acceptance and Realization</li><li>11:22 Challenges and Coping Mechanisms</li><li>22:27 Impact on Daily Life</li><li>30:04 Treatment Challenges and Realization</li><li>35:26 Dietary Challenges and Coping</li><li>41:36 Stigma and Awareness of Anal Cancer</li><li>49:43 Reintegration and Support</li><li>57:36 Emotional Struggles and Relationships</li></ul>no00:52:1717Episode 7 - Real life treatment struggles - Ali Striplingfull<![CDATA[Episode 6 - From Cancer worker and Counsellor to Cancer Patient - Amanda Burridge]]>Amanda Burridge shares her journey from working in the cancer field to being diagnosed with bowel cancer. She discusses her transition to becoming a counselor and the impact of her diagnosis on her work. The story highlights the challenges and emotional experiences of a cancer diagnosis and the journey of treatment and recovery. Amanda Burridge shares her personal journey through cancer, from diagnosis to recovery, highlighting the challenges and insights gained along the way. She emphasizes the importance of mindfulness and the value of being fit to cope with the effects of cancer treatment.

Takeaways

  • Cancer diagnosis impact on work
  • Transition to becoming a counselor
  • Challenges of cancer treatment and recovery Mindfulness in the midst of illness
  • The importance of being fit to cope with cancer treatment

Chapters

  • 00:00 Radiotherapy Experience
  • 52:01 Counseling Modality and Conclusion
]]>a1562a30-5f8c-4e43-9331-b05bed6d52f5Sun, 12 Apr 2026 09:48:35 GMT<p>Amanda Burridge shares her journey from working in the cancer field to being diagnosed with bowel cancer. She discusses her transition to becoming a counselor and the impact of her diagnosis on her work. The story highlights the challenges and emotional experiences of a cancer diagnosis and the journey of treatment and recovery. Amanda Burridge shares her personal journey through cancer, from diagnosis to recovery, highlighting the challenges and insights gained along the way. She emphasizes the importance of mindfulness and the value of being fit to cope with the effects of cancer treatment.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Cancer diagnosis impact on work</li><li>Transition to becoming a counselor</li><li>Challenges of cancer treatment and recovery Mindfulness in the midst of illness</li><li>The importance of being fit to cope with cancer treatment</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Radiotherapy Experience</li><li>52:01 Counseling Modality and Conclusion</li></ul>no00:46:2816Episode 6 - From Cancer worker and Counsellor to Cancer Patient - Amanda Burridgefull<![CDATA[Episode 5 - Not your ordinary school trip - Sarah Briggs]]>The podcast episode features a conversation with Sarah Briggs, a cancer patient, and covers her journey from diagnosis to recovery. It explores the impact of the diagnosis, the hospital experience, mental state, and the support offered during the treatment. Sarah's determination and recovery process are also highlighted. Sarah Briggs shares her journey of survival and resilience after being diagnosed with cancer. From desperate determination to return home to living life to the fullest, Sarah's story is one of courage, hope, and finding joy in every day. Despite devastating news and financial challenges, Sarah's mindset and belief to live have been instrumental in her unexplained survival and positive outlook on life.

Takeaways

  • Hospital experience and diagnosis delivery can have a significant impact on the patient's emotional state.
  • The support offered during the treatment plays a crucial role in the patient's recovery. Resilience and Determination
  • Finding Joy in Every Day

Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview
  • 07:01 Hospital Experience and Diagnosis Delivery
  • 13:19 Impact of the Diagnosis
  • 23:05 Treatment Plan and Support Offered
  • 28:47 Mental State and Surgery Preparation
  • 34:36 Managing Pain and Recovery
  • 40:16 Bucket List and Determination
  • 45:38 Navigating the Benefit System
  • 51:25 Treatment Options and Scans
  • 58:23 Peer Support and Shared Experiences
]]>480a2ef8-c8f9-40f7-bbb3-54f6b62c3d15Sun, 29 Mar 2026 07:44:28 GMT<p>The podcast episode features a conversation with Sarah Briggs, a cancer patient, and covers her journey from diagnosis to recovery. It explores the impact of the diagnosis, the hospital experience, mental state, and the support offered during the treatment. Sarah's determination and recovery process are also highlighted. Sarah Briggs shares her journey of survival and resilience after being diagnosed with cancer. From desperate determination to return home to living life to the fullest, Sarah's story is one of courage, hope, and finding joy in every day. Despite devastating news and financial challenges, Sarah's mindset and belief to live have been instrumental in her unexplained survival and positive outlook on life.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Hospital experience and diagnosis delivery can have a significant impact on the patient's emotional state.</li><li>The support offered during the treatment plays a crucial role in the patient's recovery. Resilience and Determination</li><li>Finding Joy in Every Day</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview</li><li>07:01 Hospital Experience and Diagnosis Delivery</li><li>13:19 Impact of the Diagnosis</li><li>23:05 Treatment Plan and Support Offered</li><li>28:47 Mental State and Surgery Preparation</li><li>34:36 Managing Pain and Recovery</li><li>40:16 Bucket List and Determination</li><li>45:38 Navigating the Benefit System</li><li>51:25 Treatment Options and Scans</li><li>58:23 Peer Support and Shared Experiences</li></ul>no00:55:2815Episode 5 - Not your ordinary school trip - Sarah Briggsfull<![CDATA[Episode 4 - Giving back to others - Sharron Moffatt]]>The conversation covers Sharron Moffatt's journey with cancer, from her initial diagnosis to the challenges of treatment and recovery. It delves into the psychological impact of cancer, financial struggles, coping strategies, and the misconceptions surrounding cancer treatment and recovery. Sharron's work in raising awareness and fundraising for cancer support is also highlighted. The conversation covers the experiences of cancer treatment and mental health challenges, highlighting coping mechanisms, recovery, and the need for mental health support. It also delves into the impact of cancer diagnosis on mental health and the importance of advocacy and support for cancer patients.

Takeaways

  • Psychological impact of cancer
  • Navigating the challenges of cancer treatment Cancer treatment experiences
  • Mental health challenges

Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction and Background
  • 06:00 Impact of Diagnosis and Treatment Plan
  • 13:09 Living in the Present
  • 22:27 Navigating Benefits and Social Stigma
  • 30:29 Brave the Shave Fundraiser
  • 39:32 Mental Health Challenges and Support
  • 48:20 Mental Health and Cancer Diagnosis
  • 56:07 Advocacy and Support
]]>926bbd28-1ee6-46c6-ae43-06b85d52da7cSun, 15 Mar 2026 21:14:12 GMT<p>The conversation covers Sharron Moffatt's journey with cancer, from her initial diagnosis to the challenges of treatment and recovery. It delves into the psychological impact of cancer, financial struggles, coping strategies, and the misconceptions surrounding cancer treatment and recovery. Sharron's work in raising awareness and fundraising for cancer support is also highlighted. The conversation covers the experiences of cancer treatment and mental health challenges, highlighting coping mechanisms, recovery, and the need for mental health support. It also delves into the impact of cancer diagnosis on mental health and the importance of advocacy and support for cancer patients.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Psychological impact of cancer</li><li>Navigating the challenges of cancer treatment Cancer treatment experiences</li><li>Mental health challenges</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Introduction and Background</li><li>06:00 Impact of Diagnosis and Treatment Plan</li><li>13:09 Living in the Present</li><li>22:27 Navigating Benefits and Social Stigma</li><li>30:29 Brave the Shave Fundraiser</li><li>39:32 Mental Health Challenges and Support</li><li>48:20 Mental Health and Cancer Diagnosis</li><li>56:07 Advocacy and Support</li></ul>no00:52:1914Episode 4 - Giving back to others - Sharron Moffattfull<![CDATA[Episode 3 - Cancer Whilst Pregnant - Louise Wilson]]>The conversation covers the journey of a cancer diagnosis, pregnancy, and the challenges of managing work while undergoing treatment. It explores the emotional impact of diagnosis, the complexities of pregnancy and cancer treatment, and the support received from the workplace during this challenging time. The conversation covers Louise's journey through cancer treatment, from navigating uncertainty to life after treatment. It explores the psychological impact, fear of reoccurrence, reconstructive surgery, and ongoing health concerns. Louise shares valuable advice for cancer patients, emphasizing the personal nature of the journey and the importance of finding small wins in every experience.

Takeaways

  • Early Cancer Diagnosis
  • Pregnancy and Cancer
  • Work and Cancer Surviving cancer is a deeply personal journey
  • The fear of reoccurrence and progression is a common experience for cancer survivors

Chapters

  • 00:00 Employment and Organizational Support
  • 31:22 Radiotherapy and Post-Treatment Concerns
  • 40:10 Reconstructive Surgery and Complications
  • 47:58 Life After Treatment and Ongoing Health Concerns
  • 53:08 Advice for Cancer Patients
]]>20aa5e2b-acb3-4a22-9719-e48f47db9454Sun, 01 Mar 2026 21:59:07 GMT<p>The conversation covers the journey of a cancer diagnosis, pregnancy, and the challenges of managing work while undergoing treatment. It explores the emotional impact of diagnosis, the complexities of pregnancy and cancer treatment, and the support received from the workplace during this challenging time. The conversation covers Louise's journey through cancer treatment, from navigating uncertainty to life after treatment. It explores the psychological impact, fear of reoccurrence, reconstructive surgery, and ongoing health concerns. Louise shares valuable advice for cancer patients, emphasizing the personal nature of the journey and the importance of finding small wins in every experience.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Early Cancer Diagnosis</li><li>Pregnancy and Cancer</li><li>Work and Cancer Surviving cancer is a deeply personal journey</li><li>The fear of reoccurrence and progression is a common experience for cancer survivors</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Employment and Organizational Support</li><li>31:22 Radiotherapy and Post-Treatment Concerns</li><li>40:10 Reconstructive Surgery and Complications</li><li>47:58 Life After Treatment and Ongoing Health Concerns</li><li>53:08 Advice for Cancer Patients</li></ul>no00:51:0113Episode 3 - Cancer Whilst Pregnant - Louise Wilsonfull<![CDATA[Episode 2 - A shocking twist after tragic loss - Charlotte Forster]]>In this episode of Living With and Beyond Cancer, host Steve Pointon speaks with Charlotte Forster, who shares her deeply personal journey through love, loss, and resilience in the face of cancer. Charlotte recounts her relationship with Andy, who was diagnosed with kidney cancer, and the challenges they faced together, including treatment, side effects, and the impact on their family life. After Andy's heartbreaking passing, Charlotte unexpectedly receives her own cancer diagnosis, leading her to navigate her recovery while raising their daughter. Throughout the conversation, Charlotte emphasizes the importance of community support, mental health, and the profound changes that a cancer diagnosis brings to one's life. She also discusses her advocacy work for bereavement support and the need for reform in financial assistance for young widows.

Link to the bereavement payment petition that Charlotte talks about Raise Bereavement Support Payment and extend beyond 18 months - Petitions

]]>3c14f95f-1b6c-484e-80da-9fb58471028dMon, 16 Feb 2026 06:22:41 GMT<p>In this episode of Living With and Beyond Cancer, host Steve Pointon speaks with Charlotte Forster, who shares her deeply personal journey through love, loss, and resilience in the face of cancer. Charlotte recounts her relationship with Andy, who was diagnosed with kidney cancer, and the challenges they faced together, including treatment, side effects, and the impact on their family life. After Andy's heartbreaking passing, Charlotte unexpectedly receives her own cancer diagnosis, leading her to navigate her recovery while raising their daughter. Throughout the conversation, Charlotte emphasizes the importance of community support, mental health, and the profound changes that a cancer diagnosis brings to one's life. She also discusses her advocacy work for bereavement support and the need for reform in financial assistance for young widows.</p><p>Link to the bereavement payment petition that Charlotte talks about <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/752501" target="_blank">Raise Bereavement Support Payment and extend beyond 18 months - Petitions</a></p>no00:56:0012Episode 2 - A shocking twist after tragic loss - Charlotte Forsterfull<![CDATA[Episode 1 - How did we get here?]]>Most cancer survivors learn to live with the shadow of the disease. But what happens when fear, systems failure, and personal trauma collide? Join Steve Pointon, a twice-diagnosed kidney cancer patient, as he shares his extraordinary journey from shock to resilience—and how he’s now turning his pain into purpose.

]]>4422cacb-43ab-4e0b-9880-c6023dd908e1Mon, 02 Feb 2026 22:02:34 GMT<p>Most cancer survivors learn to live with the shadow of the disease. But what happens when fear, systems failure, and personal trauma collide? Join Steve Pointon, a twice-diagnosed kidney cancer patient, as he shares his extraordinary journey from shock to resilience—and how he’s now turning his pain into purpose.</p>no00:48:091Episode 1 - How did we get here?full