Breast Cancer Now

Breast Cancer Now
  • 4.7 (7)
  • Health & Fitness
  • Updated Semimonthly

If you’re looking for authentic stories about life with and beyond breast cancer, we’re here. Welcome to the Breast Cancer Now podcast.  Join host Laura for open, supportive and honest conversations with guests who have personal or professional experience of breast cancer.  Laura Price is a writer, podcaster and author of the novel Single Bald Female. She’s living with secondary, incurable breast cancer. We’re Breast Cancer Now, the research and support charity. If you’ve got questions about breast cancer, go to our website breastcancernow.org.   New episodes every other Friday.  

  1. 6d ago

    Ashley Dalton MP: What the National Cancer Plan means for you

    Ashley Dalton, Labour MP and former Health Minister, joins Laura on the Breast Cancer Now podcast this week. In this episode, Ashley reflects on her breast cancer diagnoses, and what working with incurable metastatic disease is like. She also talks about leading the development of the National Cancer Plan for England and why patients' experiences are essential for creating cancer policy. Ashley discusses the importance of counting people with metastatic cancers, having a single patient file in the NHS, and pushing for real change. Read the National Cancer Plan here. Key Topics:01:18 Getting to know Ashley Dalton07:45 Ashley's breast cancer diagnoses14:14 Life between primary and metastatic breast cancer16:36 The Prime Minister's reaction to Ashley's cancer diagnosis18:43 Ashley resigns from her job as Health Minister20:40 What is the National Cancer Plan?22:06 Involving organisations and patients in the Cancer Plan25:40 The great ambition of the Cancer Plan31:52 What does the National Cancer Plan mean for metastatic breast cancer?33:02 We need to count people with metastatic breast cancer37:43 Improving access to treatment44:03 Identifying people with an increased risk of breast cancer45:32 Improving access to breast screening48:44 Ashley shares her highlights from the Cancer Plan51:24 Keeping hope in the face of metastatic breast cancer

    Ashley Dalton MP: What the National Cancer Plan means for you

  2. Jul 31

    Understanding cancer in Black communities (Tamara)

    In this episode of the Breast Cancer Now podcast, we speak to Tamara about her diagnosis of triple negative breast cancer, cancer in Black communities, and the impact of discovering she carries the BRCA2 gene mutation. Tamara opens up about the emotional weight of having to explain her cancer and her behaviour to the people around her. She also explores the stigma and mistrust that surrounds cancer in Black communities, and why culturally sensitive education is the key to improving outcomes. The conversation explores the feeling of dismissal Black women face in healthcare settings, and the incredible support Tamara experienced when she found Black Women Rising. Find support at Breast Cancer NowMore info about Younger Women Together courses Find support at Black Women RisingFind support at UK Charity for Triple Negative Breast CancerFrom Me To You - Supporting Black Cancer Communities. You can also watch this episode on YouTube. Key Topics:2:50 Life before diagnosis5:36 Mara's breast cancer diagnosis11:08 Conversations about the BRCA gene mutation13:52 Understanding triple negative breast cancer20:37 Black women experiencing dismissal in healthcare22:48 What needs to be done to help improve healthcare for Black women?24:13 How Mara's diagnosis was received by her family and her community25:32 Mental health support at the point of cancer diagnosis28:58 Christian beliefs and breast cancer32:02 Difficulty talking with other people about your cancer diagnosis39:46 The power of the breast cancer community41:20 Body image after surgery for breast cancer44:01 Improving education in black Caribbean and black African communities51:18 Mara's work with Black Women Rising

    Understanding cancer in Black communities (Tamara)

  3. Jul 17

    Navigating cultural taboos with breast cancer (Pretti)

    In this episode Laura speaks to Pretti who was prompted to self-check by a friend, and was diagnosed with breast cancer aged 47. Pretti reflects on some of the misconceptions and taboos around breast cancer in the South Asian community. She speaks about the importance of encouraging open and honest conversations about breast cancer awareness and early detection. They discuss the physical effects of treatment such as hair loss during chemotherapy and how she coped with body image changes. Pretti also talks about how exercise, acupuncture, education and self-compassion have helped her recovery.  Pretti explains how sharing her story through social media has helped create a supportive community, encouraging women to check their breasts and attend mammograms, and providing hope to others undergoing treatment.  Key Topics02:05 Pretti's diagnosis, treatment and how she is now08:11 The cultural approach to health matters in the South Asian community13:13 Advice for speaking to parents16:50 Barriers to diagnosis for South Asian women17:45 Why you shouldn't be reluctant to go to a mammograms18:05 Empowering women to take control of their breast health18:30 Advice for someone struggling to talk to their family about their diagnosis22:05 South Asian beauty standards and body image during treatment26:10 Speaking to kids about breast cancer31:50 Fighting back feelings of shame and guilt around cancer, after being brought up with misconceptions and taboos around the topic36:35 (Surgically induced) Menopause39:15 Managing low mood43:14 Attitudes to food and nutrition47:45 Being a model in The Show by Breast Cancer Now48:57 Being a BCN voice51:00 Something you wish you'd known before your diagnosis53:54 What do you want people to take away from this episode? Find Pretti on Instagram at @hellobreastcancer

    Navigating cultural taboos with breast cancer (Pretti)

  4. Jul 3

    Understanding BRCA: Naomi’s 80% cancer risk

    In this episode of the Breast Cancer Now podcast, we explore the role of genetics in cancer risk, including BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations, specifically in Jewish populations. Naomi shares her powerful story after discovering she carries the BRCA2 gene mutation following the loss of her mum to ovarian cancer. With an 80% lifetime risk of breast cancer, She faced life-changing decisions, and opted for risk-reducing surgery. Naomi speaks about what it’s like to live with that knowledge, how it shaped her choices, and why taking preventative action gave her a sense of control. She also shares the impact of her gene mutation on her children, and how they've dealt with it as a family. We’re also joined by Josh from Jnetics, a Jewish genetic disorders charity, who explains the science behind BRCA gene mutations, why they increase cancer risk, and why they are more common in people with Jewish ancestry. He also outlines how testing works, who may be eligible, and what support is available. Breast Cancer NowWebsite: https://breastcancernow.orgFree helpline: 0808 800 6000 Jewish BRCA Testing Programme (NHS England)Register interest: https://www.jewishbrca.orgHelpline: 020 3437 6001 Jneticshttps://www.jnetics.org Chai Cancer Carehttps://www.chaicancercare.org You can also watch this episode on YouTube. Key topics:1:29 Getting to know Naomi and Josh4:00 A history of cancer in Naomi's family7:50 Naomi is tested for the BRCA gene mutation9:35 What is a genetic mutation or gault?12:20 Why is the BRCA gene mutation more common in Jewish populations?17:24 What is BRCA, how does it work, and why does it break?20:38 Naomi's increased risk of cancer23:32 Naomi makes the choice to have risk-reducing surgery27:01 The psychological impact of risk-reducing surgery28:34 Support for carriers of gene mutations31:53 How to get tested for BRCA gene mutations35:52 Coping with the fear of having genetic testing37:52 Naomi decides how to deal with her daughters potentially being BRCA carriers39:47 Dealing with feelings of guilt passing on a genetic mutation to a child41:15 Preventing gene mutations with IVF42:20 Research into fixing faulty genes44:06 Cultural barriers to genetic testing within Jewish populations46:51 Hope for the future of genetic mutations50:08 More information for people with Jewish heritage BRCA gene, BRCA2, breast cancer risk, genetic testing UK, hereditary cancer, ovarian cancer risk, mastectomy prevention, cancer genetics, Jewish BRCA, NHS genetic testing, breast cancer awareness UK

    Understanding BRCA: Naomi’s 80% cancer risk

  5. Jun 19

    Understanding a triple negative breast cancer diagnosis (Nikki Wheatley)

    In this episode of the Breast Cancer Now podcast, Nikki Wheatley talks to Laura about her experience being diagnosed with triple negative, and later metastatic breast cancer. Nikki shares how she both finds and spreads hope, five years on from her metastatic breast cancer diagnosis. She discusses her work with the change and check campaign.  They discuss what triple negative breast cancer means, and why it can be harder to treat. Nikki discusses how she manages living with metastatic breast cancer day-to-day, managing the side effects of her treatments and looking after her mental well-being. Nikki also talks about how she has found parenting with cancer and where she has found support, in places like the Fruitfly collective, Ruth Strauss foundation and Maggie's. They talk about the importance of self-advocacy and early detection, and how she hopes to help others by sharing her story.  Key Topics: 01:20 Getting to know Nikki02:10 Explaining what triple negative breast cancer is03:01 Nikki's diagnosis05:55 The word "aggressive" in relation to triple negative07:20 Finding out the cancer had spread11:40 Nikki's signs and symptoms of metastatic breast cancer16:38 Hearing "the cancer had spread to your brain" 18:50 Treatment and scanxiety25:40 How Nikki looks after herself emotionally27:55 Nutrition30:20 Feeling isolated having a triple negative diagnosis31:30 Parenting through cancer and finding support34:32 Finding hope40:30 What sorts of progress would you like to see in terms of treatment?42:25 Nikki's involvement in the change and check campaign48:20 Being an 'outlier'50:45 Knowing your normal52:10 What would you say to someone your has just been diagnosed with primary triple negative breast cancer?53:10 The online breast cancer community55:18 Looking to the future

    Understanding a triple negative breast cancer diagnosis (Nikki Wheatley)

  6. Jun 5

    You know your body – why speaking up matters (Jay)

    In this episode of the Breast Cancer Now podcast, Jay shares her journey working in cancer research to receiving a diagnosis of breast cancer herself.  Jay opens up about discovering a lump in 2018 at age 47, navigating a stage 3 diagnosis, and dealing with chemotherapy, surgery and radiotherapy. Drawing on her science background, she also explains how understanding the system helped her advocate for herself and regain some sense of control.  She reflects on the emotional realities of cancer, and the role of family, culture and her community in her experience. Jay also speaks about the challenges within the South Asian community, where cancer is often a taboo subject, and highlights the urgent need for better awareness and representation.  Jay is now a strong advocate for health literacy and inclusion, and tells Laura about her dedication to empowering women to listen to their bodies, ask questions, and speak up in healthcare settings. Breast Cancer Now support & information: https://breastcancernow.orgClinical trials database: https://clinicaltrials.gov Key topics:01:11 Let's get to know Jay02:19 Jay's background working in clinical trials03:52 Jay is diagnosed with breast cancer08:59 The loneliness of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment12:12 What Jay learned from her cancer diagnosis16:19 The importance of self advocacy and health literacy20:43 How Jay approached telling her parents about her cancer diagnosis26:53 Jay 8 years on from diagnosis28:38 Troubles with tamoxifen31:33 Ways Jay deals with life after cancer treatment34:45 Working towards better research representation in under-represented communities37:44 Jay's work educating people about breast cancer40:51 Cancer in the South Asian community42:59 Improving cancer outcomes in Black and South Asian populations

    You know your body – why speaking up matters (Jay)

  7. May 22

    Sir Chris Hoy on hope, living for today, and not letting cancer define you

    In this episode of the Breast Cancer Now podcast, six-time Olympic gold medallist Sir Chris Hoy shares his experience of being diagnosed with metastatic prostate cancer. Chris discusses the shock of diagnosis, adapting to life with incurable cancer, and how his mindset as an elite athlete has helped him navigate uncertainty. He also introduces the Tour de 4, a community cycling event raising funds and awareness for metastatic cancers. Together with Laura Price—who is also living with metastatic breast cancer—the conversation explores resilience, the importance of healthy living, and finding meaning while living with an incurable diagnosis. Tour de 4 will take place on Sunday 6 September 2026 – sign up now. Breast cancer support and information on metastatic breast cancer from Breast Cancer Now.Prostate cancer support and information on metastatic prostate cancer from Prostate Cancer UK.Check your risk of prostate cancer in 30 seconds with Prostate Cancer UK's risk checker. You can also watch this episode on YouTube. Key topics01:37 Life before cancer03:52 Dealing with a diagnosis of metastatic cancer08:20 The mental resilience and drive of an athlete12:42 Tour de 4 – Sir Chris Hoy's cycling fundraiser14:28 The community of Tour de 417:40 Who can take part in Tour de 4?19:10 The impact of Tour de 421:32 How to sign up for Tour de 422:31 Laura's experience of last year's Tour de 424:58 Raising awareness about metastatic cancers28:02 Chris Hoy opens up about mental challenges posed by his diagnosis30:14 Chris Hoy's tips for dealing with fear and anxiety33:18 The importance of exercise with a cancer diagnosis35:36 Nutrition and avoiding sensational diets39:11 Chris Hoy shares the most important things he's learned since his cancer diagnosis46:38 How to get involved in Tour de 4

    Sir Chris Hoy on hope, living for today, and not letting cancer define you

  8. May 8

    Living with hope and metastatic breast cancer

    In this episode of the Breast Cancer Now podcast, returning guest Laura Ashurst shares her experience of living nearly 20 years with metastatic breast cancer. Laura speaks about why she thinks she has survived so long with a metastatic diagnosis, about the importance of holistic care and the importance of mental wellbeing. Laura talks about her advocacy for improved treatment access, the need for more consistent support, and improved data collection for those with metastatic breast cancer.  Find out more about metupUKLaura Ashurst's website Key Topics02:35 Laura's diagnoses13:40 What happened next?14:40 How it felt to be told you had 3-6 months to live18:55 Reflections on treatment and knowledge20:18 Letrozole24:27 What needs to be done for in terms of treatment for breast cancer?26:00 What Laura thinks has contributed to her survival, mental wellbeing35:35 Survivors guilt38:37 The metup UK charity40:20 The importance of improving data collection for metastatic breast cancer diagnoses 41:40 Working with Rishi Sunak44:40 What Laura is working on with metup UK46:35 The importance of signs and symptoms of metastatic breast cancer 48:45 Where do you find hope? 50:18 "I will never say I am grateful that cancer entered my life." 50:43 How Laura's metastatic breast cancer diagnosis has affected her children56:00 Advice for those diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer56:46 What should people take away from this episode? 58:20 Information on metup UK

    Living with hope and metastatic breast cancer
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Ratings & Reviews

4.7
out of 5
7 Ratings

About

If you’re looking for authentic stories about life with and beyond breast cancer, we’re here. Welcome to the Breast Cancer Now podcast.  Join host Laura for open, supportive and honest conversations with guests who have personal or professional experience of breast cancer.  Laura Price is a writer, podcaster and author of the novel Single Bald Female. She’s living with secondary, incurable breast cancer. We’re Breast Cancer Now, the research and support charity. If you’ve got questions about breast cancer, go to our website breastcancernow.org.   New episodes every other Friday.  

Information

  • Creator
    Breast Cancer Now
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2026
  • Episodes
    120
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Show Website
    Breast Cancer Now

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