*This episode includes discussion of suicide and may be distressing for some listeners. Please take care while listening and consider seeking support if needed. In this episode of the Talking Blood Cancer podcast, host Maryanne Skarparis sits down with Barry Du Bois, well-known TV presenter, builder, and ambassador for the Leukaemia Foundation, to discuss his lived experience with blood cancer. Barry speaks openly about his multiple diagnosis, including his first cancer diagnosis in 2011 and his later experience with multiple myeloma, providing insight into both the patient and carer perspectives. Barry shares the challenges he faced starting from his mother’s cancer journey in a country town, the trauma of losing a pregnancy with his wife Leonie, and then caring for Leonie during her own cancer diagnosis. He highlights the emotional toll of supporting loved ones through cancer, describing what he calls “borrowed trauma,” and reflects on the feelings of grief, isolation, and depression that followed. Sharing the importance of human connection and communication in helping him rebuild resilience during these difficult times. They talked about the significance of honest and empathetic conversation. Barry explains the different types of conversations people need during cancer, whether it’s solution-based, social, or empathy-focused, and encourages listeners to ask questions rather than offer solutions. Barry illustrates how small acts of empathy, such as a supportive phone call or a simple presence, were key in helping him take “micro steps” toward regaining his wellbeing. People will benefit from Barry’s honesty about vulnerability, the realities of living with an incurable blood disease, and the gentle encouragement to seek connection and small moments of joy while managing the ups and downs of a cancer diagnosis. From Barry: Breath work has been a quiet but powerful part of my life for many years. When I was told I had just three months to live due to blood cancer — a diagnosis I now live with — I needed simple ways to steady myself when everything felt uncertain. Breath work became one of those anchors. Slow, intentional breathing supports oxygen delivery to the blood, encourages circulation, and helps calm the nervous system. That state of calm can support immune health, recovery, and the body’s ability to cope with treatment and fatigue. It’s not about fixing anything or forcing positivity. It’s simply about giving your body a moment of ease. I’ve created a free, guided breath work video for anyone who feels it may help — patients, carers, or loved ones. You can access it here: 👉 https://barrydubois.com/breathworktyp There’s nothing to get right. Just follow along and breathe. —-- For more information about the Leukaemia Foundation visit: https://www.leukaemia.org.au The Talking Blood Cancer Podcast is brought to you by the Leukaemia Foundation and is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/network
