Beatson Talks

Beatson Cancer Charity
  • 5.0 (6)
  • HEALTH & FITNESS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

A podcast designed to inform, support, and provide a platform for patients to share their stories, while also allowing staff to discuss the support available to cancer patients and their families. Hosted by Laura Boyd  

  1. We’re With You: The McKie's Story

    21 OCT

    We’re With You: The McKie's Story

    In the final episode of Season Five, Laura Boyd speaks with Rachel and Don McKie, a remarkable couple who have turned personal heartbreak into purpose. After losing their son Graham to glioblastoma, an aggressive brain tumour, they have dedicated themselves to supporting Beatson Cancer Charity and Brain Tumour Research, helping to raise awareness and vital funds for this underrepresented area of cancer research.  From volunteering in the Beatson café to organising community fundraisers, the McKies share how their love for Graham continues to inspire everything they do, proving that even in loss, hope and kindness can create a powerful legacy.

    40 min
  2. We’re With You: Finding Comfort and Care at The Beatson

    14 OCT

    We’re With You: Finding Comfort and Care at The Beatson

    Join host Laura Boyd as she speaks with Sheena Wright, who shares how she’s doing “remarkably well” nearly a year after completing treatment. Sheena opens up about the first signs that led to her diagnosis, the support of her family, and the comfort she found in the warmth and care of The Beatson.  From learning to play the bagpipes in retirement to planning a dream trip to New Zealand, Sheena’s story is full of strength, gratitude and a renewed love for life. She also offers thoughtful advice for anyone beginning treatment, reminding us of the power of connection, hope and positivity.  Sensitivity Warning: This episode includes personal stories and discussions about cancer diagnosis and treatment. Some listeners may find the content distressing. Listener discretion is advised.

    24 min
  3. We’re with you: Five Years On

    7 OCT

    We’re with you: Five Years On

    Join host Laura Boyd as she speaks with Audrey Sykes, who recently took part in Off the Beatson Track to mark five years since her breast cancer diagnosis. Audrey shares her journey from diagnosis during lockdown, through treatment, to the emotional moment of ringing the bell.  She reflects on life after treatment, the support of her family, and how connecting with others has opened doors for sharing stories and reassurance. From tackling hills she’d never climbed before to the unforgettable sense of community at the walk, Audrey’s story is full of resilience, gratitude, and hope.  Sensitivity Warning: This episode includes personal stories and discussions about cancer diagnosis and treatment. Some listeners may find the content distressing. Listener discretion is advised.

    15 min
  4. We’re with you: Life After Stomach Cancer

    30 SEPT

    We’re with you: Life After Stomach Cancer

    Join host Laura Boyd as she speaks with Michael Gallacher, a young dad whose stage 3 stomach cancer diagnosis changed his life. Michael opens up about the shock of his diagnosis, the support he found through treatment at The Beatson, and the inspiration he drew from fellow patients.  He also shares how he’s channelled his experience into epic fundraising challenges — from the Highlander Triathlon to a decade of charity adventures raising over £50,000 — all while focusing on family, recovery, and gratitude. Honest and inspiring, this episode shows how resilience can lead to new purpose and hope.  Sensitivity Warning: This episode includes personal stories and discussions about cancer diagnosis and treatment. Some listeners may find the content distressing. Listener discretion is advised.

    29 min
  5. We’re with you: Chris and Laura on Finding Strength and Giving Back

    23 SEPT

    We’re with you: Chris and Laura on Finding Strength and Giving Back

    Join host Laura Boyd as she speaks with Chris and Laura Ferri about life after Chris’s bowel cancer diagnosis at just 32. The couple open up about the shock of hearing the news, the challenges of living with a stoma, and the support they received from The Beatson.  They also share how they’ve turned their experiences into fundraising events- from a 24-hour fitness challenge to icy sea plunges - while championing community spirit and men’s mental health. Honest, uplifting, and full of gratitude, this episode is a powerful reminder of resilience and love.  Sensitivity Warning: This episode includes personal stories and discussions about cancer diagnosis and treatment. Some listeners may find the content distressing. Listener discretion is advised. This may include some strong language.

    28 min
  6. We’re With You: Laura’s Story of Strength, Surrogacy and Living with Cancer

    1 JUL

    We’re With You: Laura’s Story of Strength, Surrogacy and Living with Cancer

    Join host Laura Boyd as the spotlight shifts and she takes the guest seat in this special episode, with Beatson Cancer Charity CEO Gillian Hailstones stepping in to lead the conversation. Laura speaks openly about being diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukaemia at just 29, and the reality of living with cancer for more than 16 years. She also shares the deeply personal story of how her sister-in-law helped her become a mum through surrogacy. This honest and heartfelt conversation touches on resilience, love, and the strength that comes from the people around us.  Sensitivity Warning: This episode includes personal stories and discussions about terminal illness, cancer diagnosis and treatment. Some listeners may find the content distressing. Listener discretion is advised

    29 min
  7. We’re With You: Music, Fundraising and Family – Bryan’s Beatson Story

    24 JUN

    We’re With You: Music, Fundraising and Family – Bryan’s Beatson Story

    Join host Laura Boyd in conversation with Bryan Marshall - musician, choir leader, and passionate Beatson supporter. Bryan shares his personal journey from community fundraiser to cancer caregiver when his wife Suzanne was diagnosed with stage 4 non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Through music, fundraising, and the power of positivity, Bryan and his family have become pillars of support for the Beatson Cancer Charity.  Sensitivity Warning: This episode includes personal stories and discussions about terminal illness, cancer diagnosis and treatment. Some listeners may find the content distressing. Listener discretion is advised.

    32 min
  8. We’re With You: Living with Cancer and Giving Back

    17 JUN

    We’re With You: Living with Cancer and Giving Back

    Join host Laura Boyd in conversation with Donna Hicks, who opens up about the life-altering year she and her family faced a double cancer diagnosis. Just two weeks after her mum was diagnosed with terminal lung cancer, Donna was told she had multiple myeloma - a rare and incurable blood cancer.  Donna shares the emotional toll of keeping her diagnosis a secret, her treatment at The Beatson, and how support from the Wellbeing Centre helped her through some of the most difficult moments - from wig fittings during lockdown to the comfort of small, thoughtful gestures.  She also reflects on life beyond treatment, the vital role fundraising plays in keeping services at The Beatson going, and the unexpected joy she’s found in community projects, street dance, and making lasting memories with her children.  Sensitivity Warning: This episode includes personal stories and discussions about terminal illness, cancer diagnosis and treatment. Some listeners may find the content distressing. Listener discretion is advised.

    24 min
See All (24)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

A podcast designed to inform, support, and provide a platform for patients to share their stories, while also allowing staff to discuss the support available to cancer patients and their families. Hosted by Laura Boyd  

Information

  • Creator
    Beatson Cancer Charity
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2025
  • Episodes
    24
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Beatson Talks
  • Show Website
    Beatson Talks