Let's Talk Blood Cancer, The Patients' Podcast

On this episode of Let’s Talk Blood Cancer: The Patients Podcast, host Adam Joyce sits down with Luke and Lauren Parker and Consultant Paediatric Haematologist Dr Gemma Barnard to discuss their daughter Isla’s journey through Acute Myeloid Leukaemia (AML).They share Isla’s diagnosis, the challenges of intensive chemotherapy and two stem cell transplants, and the incredible resilience she showed throughout treatment. Dr Barnard also explains AML, the importance of clinical research, and the challenges of treating children with rare and aggressive blood cancers.Now recovering from her successful transplant and returning to school, Isla and her family look towards the future together.Find out more about Cure Leukaemia and how you can get involved and support blood cancer patients across the globe: https://www.cureleukaemia.co.uk/

On this episode of Let’s Talk Blood Cancer, special guest host and childhood leukaemia survivor Hughie Higginson sits down with Andrea, a Macmillan Nurse. Andrea shares her journey into paediatric oncology, the realities of meeting families on some of the hardest days of their lives, and the importance of helping children and parents feel informed, supported and in control throughout treatment.Find out more about Cure Leukaemia and how you can get involved and support blood cancer patients across the globe: https://www.cureleukaemia.co.uk/

On this episode of Let’s Talk Blood Cancer, we are joined by Mark Chandler, a father of three whose life was turned upside down when he was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukaemia (AML). Mark shares his journey from being a fit and active family man, through an unexpected diagnosis and a devastating prognosis, to an experimental treatment, stem cell transplant, and ultimately remission. He also reflects on saying goodbye, the importance of family, and how cancer has completely changed the way he views life.What’s in this episode:- The first symptoms Mark experienced, including pain across his shoulders, severe shivering and shaking, and rapidly worsening health that eventually led him to A&E- Breaking the news to his wife and three children, and the challenges of helping children of different ages understand and cope with a cancer diagnosis- Mark’s difficult treatment journey, including two rounds of intensive chemotherapy that failed to control his disease and the devastating news that he was no longer eligible for a stem cell transplant- Being given just two to four weeks to live, choosing to return home to spend his remaining time with his family, and the emotional reality of preparing to say goodbye- Mark's unexpected hospital wedding, followed by Mark’s own goodbye party with friends, which he described as a celebration of life- The unexpected turnaround that gave Mark more time, leading to further treatment and eventually a much more aggressive and experimental chemotherapy approach- Receiving a stem cell donation from a 28-year-old donor in Chile and undergoing the long-awaited transplant- Being told on 30 December 2025 that he was officially in remission, marking a new chapter after an extraordinary cancer journey- How Mark’s experience has changed his perspective on life, family and happiness, and why he now believes that “the mundane things are where the happiness is”Find out more about Cure Leukaemia and how you can get involved and support blood cancer patients across the globe: https://www.cureleukaemia.co.uk/

On this episode of Let’s Talk Blood Cancer, we are joined by Dr. Tom Hunt, a junior doctor whose life changed forever when he was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia (ALL) at just 18 years old. Tom shares his journey from recognising the first warning signs, through diagnosis and intensive treatment, to remission, becoming a doctor himself, and how his experience has shaped both his career and outlook on life.What’s in this episode:- Tom’s first symptoms, including swollen lymph nodes, extreme fatigue, and the warning signs he initially dismissed while preparing for university and travelling across Europe- The moment blood tests revealed he had no blood counts, hearing the word leukaemia for the first time, and how his diagnosis unfolded- Tom’s determination to begin treatment immediately and the positive mindset that helped him face chemotherapy- The physical and emotional challenges of treatment, including his toughest moments, a seizure during chemotherapy, and the unwavering support of his mum, family, and friends- Reaching remission after seven months of intensive treatment, continuing maintenance therapy for two years, and learning to live with the uncertainty that follows cancer- Returning to medical school, qualifying as a junior doctor, and how living through blood cancer has influenced the way he cares for patients- The lasting psychological impact of cancer, including health anxiety, panic attacks, and how therapy helped him move forwardFind out more about Cure Leukaemia and how you can get involved and support blood cancer patients across the globe: https://www.cureleukaemia.co.uk/

On this episode of Let’s Talk Blood Cancer: The Patients' Podcast, childhood leukaemia survivors Hughie Higginson and Jude Hawkridge share their experiences of being diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia (ALL), the challenges of treatment, and how they’ve rebuilt their lives after cancer. They also reflect on the hope the ATICUS Network brings for future generations of children with blood cancer.What’s in this episode:- Hughie and Jude’s experiences of being diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia (ALL), including the symptoms they experienced and how long it took to receive a diagnosis- The emotional impact of hearing the word "cancer" as a child and navigating treatment at a young age- Jude’s treatment journey, from chemotherapy and CAR-T cell therapy to receiving a stem cell transplant- The realities of spending long periods in hospital, coping with isolation, missing family and friends, and finding comfort in the small things during treatment- How treatment affected everyday life, including changes in appetite, missing school and football, and the importance of being treated like any other child- The lasting impact Professor Rob Wynn had on both Hughie and Jude’s treatment journeys- Why the ATICUS Network is so important in developing less toxic treatments, expanding access to innovative clinical trials, and improving outcomes for children undergoing stem cell transplantsFind out more about Cure Leukaemia and how you can get involved and support blood cancer patients across the globe: https://www.cureleukaemia.co.uk/

On this episode of Let’s Talk Blood Cancer, we are joined by Dr. Katharine Patrick, Consultant Paediatric Haematologist at Sheffield Children’s Hospital, to explore the realities of treating children with blood cancer, supporting families through diagnosis, and the exciting advances shaping the future of paediatric care and research.What’s in this episode:- Dr. Patrick’s journey into medicine and how a six-month placement inspired her to specialise in paediatric haematology- The emotional challenges and rewards of caring for children with blood cancer, and the importance of the multidisciplinary team supporting patients and families- How childhood leukaemia is diagnosed and common symptoms- The conversations doctors have with families following a diagnosis, including providing reassurance, hope, and tailored support throughout treatment- Why exercise is becoming an increasingly important part of childhood cancer care, helping children recover more quickly and maintain their long-term health- Katharine's fundraising challenge, cycling The Route (all stages of the Tour de France Femmes Avec Zwift) and why funding research is essential- The importance of the ATICUS Network in expanding access to clinical trials, accelerating new treatments for children undergoing stem cell transplants, and improving supportive careFind out more about Cure Leukaemia and how you can get involved and support blood cancer patients across the globe: https://www.cureleukaemia.co.uk/

On this episode of Let’s Talk Blood Cancer, The Patients’ Podcast, we are joined by Professor Rob Wynn, Consultant Paediatric Haematologist and Director of Blood and Bone Marrow Transplantation at Manchester Children’s Hospital.What’s in this episode:- Rob’s journey into medicine and how a last-minute decision at sixth form led him to a career in paediatric haematology- Why haematology appealed to him as a specialty, combining both the science and philosophy of medicine- The remarkable advances he has witnessed in childhood blood cancer treatment during more than 30 years in the field- Why giving families hope, alongside honesty, is essential when a child is diagnosed with leukaemia- What a true cure means to Rob, and the importance of helping children live healthy, normal lives after treatment- The role of blood and bone marrow transplantation in treating childhood blood cancers and the potential of cord blood donations- How immunotherapy, targeted treatments and transplantation are creating new options when chemotherapy alone is not enough- The motivation that continues to drive his work, including improving outcomes and reducing treatment-related side effects- His vision for the future through the ATICUS Network, with a focus on curing every child while minimising toxicity- The story behind completing Tour 21 despite breaking his elbow on day two, and why supporting blood cancer research remains so importantFind out more about Cure Leukaemia and how you can support pioneering blood cancer research and patients across the globe: https://www.cureleukaemia.co.uk/

On this episode of Let’s Talk Blood Cancer, The Patients’ Podcast, we are joined by James McLaughlin, Chief Executive of Cure Leukaemia. What’s in this episode: James’ route into Cure Leukaemia, from his career in sport with organisations including Nike, Watford FC and Edgbaston Cricket Club How meeting Cure Leukaemia co-founders Professor Charlie Craddock and Graham Silk inspired him to join the charity’s mission Why his commercial and marketing background has helped drive the charity’s growth and fundraising success The importance of keeping patients at the heart of every decision and seeing first-hand the impact of clinical research The partnerships and fundraising milestones that helped transform Cure Leukaemia The story behind Tour 21 and the moment Cure Leukaemia came within “an hour of going bust” James’ vision for the future, including expanding access to clinical trials and growing the ATICUS Network to improve treatment options for children with blood cancer Find out more about Cure Leukaemia and how you can get involved and support blood cancer patients across the globe: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.cureleukaemia.co.uk/⁠

On this special International Clinical Trials Day episode of Let’s Talk Blood Cancer, The Patients’ Podcast, we are joined by Professor Chris Fox, Professor of Haematology at Nottingham University Hospitals and Medical Director of the Trials Acceleration Programme (TAP), to discuss the vital role clinical trials play in advancing blood cancer treatment and improving patient outcomes. What’s in this episode: Professor Fox’s journey into haematology and lymphoma, and the differences between lymphoma and leukaemia How he balances patient care with leading and designing clinical trials to bring new treatments to patients Why clinical trials are essential for developing safer and more effective therapies for blood cancers The major advances transforming lymphoma treatment, including immunotherapy, CAR-T cell therapy, and bispecific antibodies The impact of the Trials Acceleration Programme (TAP) in improving access to pioneering clinical trials across the UK Why Professor Fox believes the future of lymphoma treatment is incredibly promising, with continued progress expected over the next decade Find out more about Cure Leukaemia and how you can get involved and support blood cancer patients across the globe: ⁠⁠ https://www.cureleukaemia.co.uk/⁠

In this special International Nurses Day episode of Let’s Talk Blood Cancer, The Patients' Podcast, host Adam Joyce is joined by Jesusa (Jes) Sulit, Sian Fowdur, and Abi Sutcliffe — three Clinical Research Nurses from Nottingham University Haematology Ward — to explore the vital role research nurses play in blood cancer clinical trials and patient care. What’s in this episode: - What a Clinical Research Nurse does- Supporting patients through long-term clinical trials from consent to treatment and beyond - Why research nurses are often described as “navigators” for patients throughout their cancer journey - How clinical trials help turn today’s research into tomorrow’s standard of care - The impact research has had on blood cancer treatment, including less toxic therapies and home-based treatments - Why research nurses are essential to running safe and effective clinical trials - Addressing misconceptions and fears patients may have about joining clinical trials - The emotional highs and lows of supporting patients through treatment and remission - Why the role is so rewarding and the lasting difference research nurses can make to patient outcomes - Reflections on International Nurses Day and the future of blood cancer care Thank you to all Clinical Research Nurses for the incredible work they do to improve outcomes for blood cancer patients around the world.

In this episode, we’re joined by Professor Steve Knapper a Consultant Haematologist Hospital at Wales. Find out more about Cure Leukaemia and how you can get involved and support blood cancer patients across the globe: ⁠⁠https://www.cureleukaemia.co.uk/⁠

In this episode, we’re joined by Jenna Ostrowski, who was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukaemia (AML) at 33 years old — after a visit to the dentist for persistent bleeding gums following a holiday.What’s in this episode: The early symptoms Jenna experienced and why they were initially overlooked The pivotal dentist visit that led to her diagnosis Receiving a life-changing AML diagnosis and breaking the news to loved ones Her experience being treated with Mylotarg and the impact of research-led care Spending seven months in hospital and the mental challenges of isolation Reaching remission and rebuilding life after treatment Taking on the London to Paris cycle ride just months after recovery Life today, including marriage, motherhood, and more... Thank you to HCR Law for kindly sponsoring this epsiode. Find out more about Cure Leukaemia and how you can get involved and support blood cancer patients across the globe: ⁠⁠https://www.cureleukaemia.co.uk/⁠

In this episode, we’re joined by Mark Nicholas, who was diagnosed with Chronic Myeloid Leukaemia after months of unexplained symptoms that he initially put down to a lingering sports injury. What began as a persistent rotator cuff issue from rugby that wouldn’t heal led to further investigation. Alongside noticeable weight loss, fatigue a routine blood test revealed something far more serious. What’s in this episode: The early signs Mark experienced, including a rugby injury that wouldn’t heal and increasing fatigue The emotional impact of receiving a Chronic Myeloid Leukaemia diagnosis on him and his family His treatment journey and the setbacks he went through The physical and mental challenges of isolation during recovery Meeting his stem cell donor and the powerful connection that followed- His recovery journey and the importance of listening to his body post-transplant How he found purpose through endurance challenges and supporting Cure Leukaemia Find out more about Cure Leukaemia and how you can get involved and support blood cancer patients across the globe: ⁠⁠https://www.cureleukaemia.co.uk/⁠

In this episode, we’re joined by five Tour 21 riders, riding all 21 stages of the Tour de France, just one week ahead of the professionals this summer. These riders are part of a wider team of amateur cyclists, taking on one of the toughest endurance events in the world. In this episode, we are joined by returning riders and new riders all with their own motivations as to why they are taking on such a challenge!• What actually is Tour 21, and what does it involve• The personal stories behind each rider• What made them sign up for the challenge and their motivators • Their fundraising tactics and event advice from returning riders • And much more... If you feel inspired by these riders and would like to support the Tour 21 2026 team, you can donate here: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/thetour212026 To learn more about Tour 21 and how you can get involved in 2026 or 2027, visit: ⁠ https://www.thetour21.co.uk/

In this episode, we’re joined by four The Route riders who are preparing to ride all 9 stages of The Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift this summer, one day ahead of the professionals. All of the riders are inspired to take on the challenge for their own reason. These riders are part of a wider group of 20 amateur cyclists taking on this extraordinary journey together. In this episode, we explore: • What actually is The Route and what does it involve• The individual motivations behind why each rider signed up • The mental and physical resilience required to train for such an intense endurance event • The empowerment and camaraderie of being part of an all-women team • How their efforts are helping to raise awareness and vital funds for children living with blood cancer across the UK If you feel inspired by these riders and would like to support the Route 2026 riders, you can donate here: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/theroute2026 To learn more about The Route and how you can get involved in 2026 or 2027, visit: ⁠https://theroute.co.uk/

In this episode, we’re joined by four Tour 21 riders all living with or recovering from blood cancer, speaking from their training camp in Calpe, as they prepare for an extraordinary challenge - riding all 21 stages of the Tour de France, just one week ahead of the professionals this summer. These riders are part of a wider team of amateur cyclists, taking on one of the toughest endurance events in the world. In this episode, we explore: What actually is Tour 21, and what does it involve The personal journeys behind each rider’s diagnosis and recovery What made them sign up for the challenge The physical and emotional challenges of training during or after treatment What it means to reclaim strength and identity through sport How their ride is raising awareness and funds for blood cancer research If you feel inspired by these riders and would like to support the Tour 21 2026 team, you can donate here: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/thetour212026 To learn more about Tour 21 and how you can get involved in 2026 or 2027, visit: https://www.thetour21.co.uk/

In this episode, we’re joined by Eleanor Woulfe, who was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia (ALL) at just 32 years old — while 24 weeks pregnant with her first child. What started as concern over swollen lymph nodes ahead of a wedding quickly turned into a life-changing visit to her GP. Like many expectant mothers, Eleanor initially believed the symptoms she was experiencing were simply part of pregnancy. Instead, she found herself facing a cancer diagnosis while preparing to become a first-time mum. What’s in this episode: The moment Eleanor decided to visit her GP after noticing swollen lymph nodes before attending a wedding Symptoms she initially believed were simply part of pregnancy Being diagnosed with ALL while 24 weeks pregnant as a first-time mum Navigating the shock and emotions of a cancer diagnosis during pregnancy Her treatment plan and how research-led care supported decisions for both her and her baby Undergoing chemotherapy while pregnant and how it impacted her pregnancy The challenges treatment created during the early months of motherhood Find out more about Cure Leukaemia and how you can get involved and support blood cancer patients across the globe: ⁠⁠https://www.cureleukaemia.co.uk/⁠

In this episode, we’re joined by Lizzie Dean , who shares her journey after being diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukaemia (AML). After two relapses and being told she had just two months to live, Lizzie had run out of treatment options — until a clinical trial gave her hope and ultimately saved her life.In this episode, we cover:Lizzie’s diagnosis story and the early warning signs she experiencedFacing two relapses and being left with limited treatment optionsThe devastating moment she was told she had two months to liveWhat a clinical trial is and how the clinical trial process worksThe role of a Research Nurse and the importance of dedicated Cure Leukaemia Research NursesWhat a bone marrow biopsy is and what the procedure involvesLizzie’s determination to give back, including helping to raise six figures for Cure LeukaemiaFind out more about Cure Leukaemia and how you can get involved and support blood cancer patients across the globe: ⁠⁠https://www.cureleukaemia.co.uk/⁠

In this episode, we’re joined by Jo Hawkridge, mother of Jude Hawkridge, who was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia at just 7 years old.What’s in the episode:- Jo shares Jude’s diagnosis story and the early symptoms that raised concern- A deep dive into Jude’s complex treatment journey, including CAR-T therapy and a bone marrow transplant- The realities of isolation, and how his family navigated life during these times- The emotional and physical journey toward remission and what it meant for Jude and his family- How participation in a clinical trial brought new hope, offering access to innovative treatments not widely available- Why Jo and her family are passionate about supporting Cure Leukaemia- The creation of The ATICUS Network and its mission to improve the future for children living with blood cancerFind out more about Cure Leukaemia and how you can get involved and support blood cancer patients across the globe: ⁠⁠https://www.cureleukaemia.co.uk/⁠

In this episode, we’re joined by Adam Claxton, who was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukaemia (AML) in September 2024 after a persistent cough lasting 100 days.Adam shares his powerful and deeply personal journey, including:- His diagnosis story and the early warning signs- How his brother saved his life through a stem cell transplant- The emotional rollercoaster of reaching remission, then relapsing- Being told he had just two weeks to live due to limited treatment options- The impact of maintaining a positive mindset during the darkest moments- Being away from family throughout treatment and the challenge of explaining illness to young childrenFind out more about Cure Leukaemia and how you can get involved and support blood cancer patients across the globe: ⁠⁠https://www.cureleukaemia.co.uk/⁠