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.

  1. Aug 2

    S2 Ep2 - Diagnosed on the other side of the world - Charlotte Rutherford

    The podcast episode features a conversation between Steve and Charlotte, a cancer survivor, discussing her journey from diagnosis to treatment and recovery. Charlotte shares her experiences of being diagnosed with stage four metastatic colon cancer, her struggles with symptoms, challenges in Australia, financial difficulties, and the fear of the unknown during her cancer journey. The conversation also covers her return to the UK, surveillance, and the emotional impact of the limbo phase. Charlotte shares her experience of facing cancer recurrence, undergoing treatment, and making difficult decisions about her health. She also discusses her advocacy work, the importance of mental health support, and the impact of cancer on the workplace. Charlotte provides an update on her health and reflects on planning for the future. Takeaways Early symptoms of cancer can be overlooked or misdiagnosed, leading to delayed diagnosis and treatment.The limbo phase of waiting for test results and diagnosis can be emotionally challenging and traumatic for cancer patients. Facing cancer recurrence can be unexpected and emotionally challenging.Advocacy and peer support play a crucial role in providing support and raising awareness for cancer patients. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Sponsorship03:05 Charlotte's Diagnosis and Early Symptoms05:28 Challenges in Australia and Diagnosis13:11 Treatment in Australia15:50 Financial and Emotional Struggles20:32 Return to the UK and Surveillance22:59 The Limbo Phase and Fear of the Unknown25:26 Facing Recurrence26:21 Treatment and Decision Making33:17 Advocacy and Support36:17 Mental Health and Peer Support40:04 Advocacy Work and Impact44:20 Workplace Support and Future Planning45:28 Health Update and Moving Forward

  2. Jun 7

    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

  3. 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

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.

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