Living with & Beyond Cancer

Steve Pointon

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 hopeThe hidden struggles of returning to work after cancer and fighting for workplace justiceWhy systemic failures in healthcare, benefits, and employment make survival even harderHow community support, charities, and real stories can be lifelines during the darkest timesThe inspiring ways Steve is giving back—becoming a counselor, patient advocate, and international speakerThis 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.

Episodes

  1. 15h ago

    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 patientsWell-being and recovery are interconnected Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Living With and Beyond Cancer06:03 The Development of Psychology in Sport11:27 Late Diagnosis and Coping with Dismissal20:35 Mental Health Support and Trauma of Diagnosis28:12 Impact of Cancer Diagnosis36:15 Acceptance and Expectations44:34 Personal Health Journey50:49 Well-being and Recovery

    51 min
  2. May 24

    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 challengesImpact of delayed diagnosisLack of support and care in healthcare system Resilience in the face of adversityThe importance of support and closeness in difficult times Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview06:25 Challenges with Remote Diagnosis and Care13:57 Hospital Ordeal and Lack of Support21:11 Terminal Diagnosis and Emotional Impact27:28 Financial and Work Challenges33:53 Lack of Compassion and Care in Healthcare System39:12 Coping and Emotional Support44:46 Challenges and Christmas50:25 Marriage and Emotional Moments58:44 Challenges with Hospice Staff

    1h 1m

About

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 hopeThe hidden struggles of returning to work after cancer and fighting for workplace justiceWhy systemic failures in healthcare, benefits, and employment make survival even harderHow community support, charities, and real stories can be lifelines during the darkest timesThe inspiring ways Steve is giving back—becoming a counselor, patient advocate, and international speakerThis 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.