Your Way Now

Sarah Hurst

Your Way Now is the podcast for people affected by cancer who want real support without the fluff. Hosted by Sue and Sarah, each episode brings entertainment, straight-talking conversation, and genuinely useful tips you can try alongside traditional treatment. We talk about the stuff people whisper about, the stuff nobody warns you about, and the small changes that can make life feel a bit more manageable. Expect: honest, human chat with warmth and humourpractical “try this today” ideas for mind, body and everyday lifeclarity when everything feels messyencouragement that helps you take your next step, your wayWhether you’re living with cancer, supporting someone you love, or finding your feet after treatment, you’ll leave each episode feeling less alone and more able to cope. New episodes fortnightly. Follow Your Way Now and take what helps, leave what doesn’t.

  1. Oct 12

    The massage myth holding cancer patients back from safe treatment - with Amanda Winwood

    The Massage Myth Holding Cancer Patients Back From Safe TreatmentIn this episode of Your Way Now, Sarah and Sue speak with Amanda Winwood from the Made for Life Foundation about safe touch therapy for people living with cancer.Amanda shares how a life-changing “sliding door moment” led her to create a mission focused on improving access to informed, compassionate touch therapy. Together, they explore the misinformation that can prevent people with cancer from receiving appropriate spa treatments—and how better training, language, and standards can help change that.The conversation covers the difference between deep tissue massage and soft, safe touch therapy, the importance of creating a sense of safety, and why therapists need the right knowledge and confidence to welcome clients at every stage of their cancer journey.Amanda also discusses the role of scent, organic skincare, therapist wellbeing, and the transformation that can happen when people feel genuinely cared for. In this episodeThe experience that inspired Amanda to establish the Made for Life Foundation.Why some people living with cancer have historically been turned away from spa treatments.The difference between deep tissue massage and soft, safe touch therapy.How gentle touch can support relaxation and help people feel safe.Why changing the language around massage matters.The importance of properly trained therapists and appropriate industry standards.How scent and carefully chosen products can contribute to a treatment experience.The story of a young therapist whose confidence transformed through training.Why therapist wellbeing and emotional state matter when providing care.Amanda’s advice for people living with cancer: find a properly qualified therapist and allow yourself to be looked after.Timestamps00:00 – Introducing Amanda and the mission behind the episode 00:31 – The sliding door moment that changed everything 02:50 – Starting the Made for Life Foundation 05:12 – Misinformation around massage and cancer 06:12 – Deep tissue massage versus safe touch 09:44 – Why the language of “safe touch” matters 12:52 – The science of calm and relaxation 15:49 – Using scent and oils safely 18:56 – Training therapists and building confidence 20:36 – A powerful story of transformation 24:23 – Training requirements and standards 26:28 – The origins of Made for Life Organics 30:17 – Authenticity and trust in beauty products 33:45 – Standards in touch therapy for cancer care 36:20 – Amanda’s advice for people living with cancer 37:34 – Moving toward rest and recovery Find out moreMade for Life Foundation: https://madeforlifefoundation.org/Find and book a qualified spa therapist through SATCC: https://satcc.co.uk/find-and-book-a-spa/Please seek advice from your healthcare team and choose a suitably qualified therapist for your individual circumstances.

  2. Sep 28

    The Cancer Insight That Could Change How We Treat Healing with Dr Rosy Daniel

    Dr. Rosy Daniel: Health Coaching, Holistic Cancer Care and Reclaiming Personal PowerCan health coaching help people affected by cancer take back control of their health and wellbeing? In this episode of Your Way Now, Sarah and Sue speak with Dr. Rosy Daniel, a GP turned integrative cancer doctor and pioneer in holistic medicine, about the role of health coaching in cancer care. Rosy shares her journey from conventional medicine to mind-body health, including her 15 years at the Bristol Cancer Help Centre and the development of her Health Creation coaching model. Together, they explore how specialist coaching can support people from diagnosis through treatment and beyond, helping them navigate emotional challenges, manage stress, reconnect with their purpose and take an active role in their wellbeing. They also discuss the evidence behind health coaching, the difference between coaching and counselling, and why carers and oncology professionals need emotional support too. Key topics include: The mind-body connection and integrative medicine.Moving from passive healthcare to proactive health creation.Specialist coaching throughout the cancer journey.Health revival, life revival and reconnecting with purpose.Research into health coaching for people affected by cancer.The difference between coaching and counselling.Nervous system regulation, stress and emotional wellbeing.Supporting carers and oncology professionals.Integrating specialist coaching into cancer care.Timestamps00:00 - Introduction to Dr. Rosy Daniel 01:10 - Discovering the mind-body connection 02:03 - Choosing medicine as a bridge between two worlds 03:32 - The Bristol Cancer Help Centre 05:02 - Developing the Health Creation coaching model 06:37 - Health revival, life revival and reigniting purpose 08:23 - Evidence for health coaching in cancer care 09:26 - Cancer as a wake-up call and opportunity for change 10:16 - Working with the human spirit, not just the disease 12:11 - Integrating holistic coaching into oncology care 13:41 - Why specialist cancer coaching matters from diagnosis 15:00 - Training and standards for cancer coaches 17:03 - NHS health coaching versus specialist cancer coaching 18:33 - Funding and expanding access to support 19:26 - The boundaries between coaching and counselling 21:03 - Helping people access the right support 22:53 - Finding appropriate integrative therapies 24:13 - Coaching as a catalyst for action and change 26:12 - Navigating setbacks and cycles of change 27:50 - The Health Creation six-month coaching programme 29:36 - Coaching throughout the cancer journey 30:28 - The 12 key moments of vulnerability in cancer care 31:01 - Navigating fear, beliefs and prognosis 32:42 - Nervous system regulation and stress 34:34 - People-pleasing, boundaries and personal energy 35:55 - Supporting carers and preventing burnout 37:35 - Research and oncology engagement 39:03 - Specialist training for health coaches 40:01 - Rosy's closing message: The power is within you Memorable quotes“From passive health care to proactive health creation.” “I'm not working with cancer, I'm working with the human spirit.” “The power is within you.” Find out more about Dr. Rosy DanielExplore Rosy's work in integrative medicine and health coaching: https://www.drrosydaniel.org/  About Your Way Now Your Way Now explores the emotional impact of cancer, from diagnosis and treatment to life beyond cancer, offering conversations about support, hope and finding your own way forward.

  3. Sep 24 ·  Bonus

    Sarah and Sue reflect on series 2

    A shocking stage-four diagnosis, 11 years of living with cancer, and a powerful reminder that identity is never gone - it can be rebuilt. Sue and Sarah reflect on the most inspiring moments from Your Way Now Series 2 and the stories that keep proving one thing: you still have choices. Marcos, Kate, Kevin, Anna, and the Sussex Cancer Research Centre each bring a different angle on what it means to face cancer with purpose, hope, and practical action. From moving beyond a victim mindset to "thriving, not surviving," from naming a tumour to rethinking identity after diagnosis, this conversation pulls together the biggest lessons from the series. You'll hear how Kevin uses his own experience to spread hope, why acupuncture is changing minds around cancer-related symptoms, and how research is becoming more patient-led by bringing clinicians, scientists, and lived experience into the same room. Sue and Sarah also preview what's coming in Series 3, including money advice with Citizens Advice and Macmillan, oncology massage with Amanda Winwood, integrative care with Dr. Rosie Daniel, a carer's perspective from James, and a powerful discussion with Kristen from Brackachat.If cancer, caregiving, recovery, or finding purpose after life changes are part of your world, this episode offers something deeply practical and genuinely uplifting. It is a bonus episode full of perspective, optimism, and the kind of real-world insight that stays with you long after you finish listening.Perfect for anyone wanting hope, useful ideas, and a reason to keep listening into the next series.

  4. Sep 14

    Stories of Cancer and Hope with Kevin Donaghy

    Stories of Cancer and Hope: Kevin's Journey from Melanoma to Inspiring OthersKevin Donaghy shares his journey from a melanoma diagnosis to becoming a passionate advocate for people affected by cancer. Through resilience, hope, and the power of storytelling, he transformed his own experience into Stories of Cancer and Hope—a book offering comfort, inspiration, and practical support to others navigating cancer. Main TopicsKevin's melanoma diagnosis and treatment journeyLiving with stage 4 metastatic melanomaThe importance of hope, mindset, and resilienceLifestyle changes to support wellbeing during treatmentThe power of storytelling and peer supportCreating and sharing Stories of Cancer and HopeFuture plans to expand cancer support resourcesIn This EpisodeRecognising the early signs of melanomaProgression from stage 2 to stage 4 metastatic melanomaUndergoing surgery and immunotherapy treatmentCoping with uncertainty and protecting mental healthFinding strength through hope, community, and support groupsMaking positive lifestyle changes through diet and exerciseThe inspiration behind creating Stories of Cancer and HopeCollecting real-life cancer stories to encourage othersPlans to relaunch the book and develop future resourcesTimestamps00:35 – Kevin's cancer journey begins 02:07 – Stage 2 melanoma diagnosis and surgery 03:48 – Recurrence and stage 4 diagnosis 06:02 – Mental health and coping with treatment 07:47 – The importance of hope and mindset 12:20 – Community and peer support 14:25 – Lifestyle changes and taking control 17:58 – Creating Stories of Cancer and Hope 21:22 – The impact of the book 23:44 – Future plans and expanding support Resources & LinksStories of Cancer and HopeMaggie's Cancer Support CentresConnect with KevinInstagramAbout This EpisodeKevin's story demonstrates how hope, resilience, and connection can make a profound difference after a cancer diagnosis. By sharing his own experience and collecting the stories of others, he highlights the healing power of community and reminds us that no one has to face cancer alone. Whether you're living with cancer, supporting a loved one, or looking for inspiration, this episode offers practical insights and genuine encouragement.

  5. Aug 31

    Why Kate Named Her Tumour Indi | Living with Metastatic Breast Cancer

    Thriving Beyond Cancer: Kate's Journey of Resilience and InspirationJoin us as Kate shares her remarkable journey of living with metastatic inflammatory breast cancer. From diagnosis to ongoing treatment, she reveals how resilience, positivity, and the support of others have helped her thrive rather than simply survive. Her story offers hope, practical advice, and inspiration for anyone facing cancer or other life-changing challenges. In This EpisodeKate's diagnosis and treatment journey from 2015 onwardsLiving with metastatic inflammatory breast cancerHow naming her tumour "Indigo" became a powerful visualization toolThe role of positivity, mindset, and hope during treatmentManaging treatment side effects, including neuropathyThe importance of family, friends, and community supportBuilding a personal brand around "thriving, not surviving"Balancing business, creativity, and life alongside cancer treatmentSetting boundaries, asking for help, and celebrating milestonesAdvice for talking openly about health and emotional wellbeingTimestamps00:00 – Introduction and Kate's inspiring story 00:54 – Discovering the lump and receiving her diagnosis 02:46 – Scans, biopsies, and understanding metastatic breast cancer 04:37 – Processing the diagnosis and beginning treatment 05:56 – Visualization and naming her tumour "Indigo" 08:28 – Surgery decisions and treatment choices 09:52 – The importance of support networks 11:46 – Mindset, positivity, and complementary approaches 15:34 – Managing treatment side effects 19:14 – Living with ongoing scans and long-term treatment 22:28 – Boundaries, self-care, and thriving beyond cancer 23:14 – Advocacy, blogging, and helping others 28:10 – Career changes and finding purpose 35:36 – Adapting through COVID and evolving her business 37:22 – Becoming "Kate the Friendly Business Buddy" 38:28 – Final advice on resilience, support, and hope Resources & LinksKate Can Do This Facebook PageBreast cancer support resourcesMindset and visualization techniquesConnect with KateFacebookAbout This EpisodeKate's story is a powerful reminder that hope, resilience, and community can transform even the most difficult circumstances. Through visualization, honest conversations, and a determination to live fully, she demonstrates that it is possible to thrive while living with advanced cancer. Whether you're navigating your own diagnosis, supporting a loved one, or simply looking for inspiration, this episode offers practical insights and encouragement for the road ahead.

  6. Aug 17

    The Surprising Power of Acupuncture in Managing Cancer Treatment Side Effects with Anna Joseph

    Your Way Now — Acupuncture for cancer treatment side effects with Anna JosephIn this episode, Sue and Sarah speak with Anna Joseph, a nurse and acupuncturist working with oncology patients in Sussex. Anna explains how medical acupuncture can help manage treatment side effects like hot flushes, joint pain, anxiety, insomnia, and breathlessness, while also offering patients a calm, supportive space during cancer treatment. Timestamps 00:01 Welcome to the episode and introduction to Anna Joseph 00:55 Anna’s background in oncology nursing and chemotherapy 01:25 Creating a community-based acupuncture service for cancer patients 02:28 Common symptoms patients bring to acupuncture 03:08 How acupuncture can help with anxiety, insomnia, and pain 04:06 Reported results and why consistency matters 05:08 Western acupuncture vs Eastern acupuncture 06:03 How Western acupuncture works in the body 07:08 Why acupuncture is calming and relationship-based 08:22 Self-needling, studs, and acupressure options 09:37 Demonstration of chest points for grounding and symptom relief 11:42 Hot flush points on the ankles and ongoing support 12:15 Group clinics and making treatment more accessible 14:19 How people are referred into the service 15:04 Anna’s private acupuncture practice in Hove 15:35 Recommended treatment frequency for best results 16:12 How different people respond at different speeds 19:00 Reflexology, emotional release, and cathartic reactions 21:18 A memorable case: dramatic improvement in prostate cancer hot flushes 22:35 The friendships and support formed in group sessions 24:57 Why an integrative approach matters in cancer care 25:17 The need for better evidence-based guidance and signposting 29:22 Anna’s top tip: acupuncture is another gentle tool in the wellness toolkit Contact Anna Joseph annajosephacupuncture@gmail.com www.annajosephacupuncture.co.uk

  7. Aug 3

    The Power of Patient Involvement in Accelerating Cancer Research with Mel Flint and Duncan Gilbert

    In this episode of Your Way Now, Sarah and Sue are joined by Professor Melanie Flint and Duncan Gilbert from the Sussex Cancer Research Centre (SCRC) to discuss how cancer research is being shaped by collaboration, lived experience, and a strong focus on patient impact. 00:01 — Sarah and Sue introduce the episode and welcome Mel and Duncan. 00:35 — Mel introduces herself and her research focus. 01:00 — Duncan introduces himself and his clinical oncology work. 01:44 — Mel explains what the Sussex Cancer Research Centre is and how it connects researchers across Sussex. 03:20 — Duncan shares why research is essential to improving cancer care and outcomes. 06:20 — Duncan discusses how SCRC helps connect research more directly to patients and the clinic. 07:15 — Mel shares how patient feedback shaped the SCRC fatigue research group. 08:49 — Duncan explains why fatigue is such an important issue across cancer types. 11:12 — Duncan talks about gut health, bowel side effects, and microbiome research. 13:11 — He expands on how the microbiome may influence immunotherapy. 16:07 — Mel shares her current research on stress, ovarian cancer, drug resistance, and recurrence. 17:26 — Mel explains how mini tumours are created in the lab for research. 18:22 — Mel explains how people can get involved with SCRC. 22:46 — Duncan discusses levels of patient and public involvement in research. 25:33 — He explains how people can join more formal research and funding committees. 26:20 — Duncan highlights the importance of including caregivers and relatives too. 27:40 — Mel and Duncan close with thanks and encouragement for listeners. SCRC brings together the University of Brighton, the University of Sussex, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, and NHS Trusts across Sussex. Its work is rooted in collaboration and in making sure people with lived experience of cancer are central to shaping research priorities.The conversation explores several key themes, including fatigue, gut health, the microbiome, stress, immune response, and the challenge of turning lab discoveries into real-world treatments. Mel and Duncan also share how patient input has already influenced the direction of research, including studies into fatigue and bowel changes after treatment.The episode also highlights the many ways people can get involved — from informal engagement and research groups to clinical trial participation, patient advisory roles, and funding committees. The message is clear: cancer research is strongest when it is collaborative, accessible, and guided by the people it aims to help. To learn more or get involved, visit sussexcancer.org.

  8. Jul 20

    From Diagnosis to Remission with Marcos Jarvis

    # Overcoming Stage Four Cancer: Marcos Jarvis’s Inspiring Journey of Mindset and Lifestyle ChangesDiscover Marcos Jarvis’s extraordinary story of transforming a stage four incurable cancer diagnosis into remission through a powerful mindset, holistic health approaches, and relentless determination. This episode explores his journey from despair to ultra-marathoner, emphasizing the importance of mental resilience, lifestyle modifications, and integrative therapies. In this episode:Marcos shares his initial symptoms and the shocking diagnosis of stage four pancreatic cancerHow a shift in mindset from victim to warrior became a turning pointThe role of intuition and holistic health practices in his healing journeySpecific dietary, physical, and alternative therapies Marcos used to support recoveryHis incredible achievements, including running ultramarathons during treatmentLessons on the power of community, support, and positive thinkingPractical tips for integrating health changes regardless of diagnosisThe importance of mindset, small changes, and listening to your bodyTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction to Marcos Jarvis and his story of overcoming cancer 00:28 - Marcos’s health decline and initial misdiagnosis 01:53 - The diagnosis of stage four incurable cancer and its impact 03:01 - The moment Marcos and his wife decided to fight back 04:14 - The pivotal shift from victim mentality to warrior mindset 05:21 - How mindset influences healing and resilience 06:24 - Overcoming dyslexia and victim thinking to empowerment 08:49 - Incorporating holistic therapies and alternative health practices 10:04 - Managing information overwhelm and trusting intuition 11:01 - Connecting with one’s inner self and understanding the body's healing power 12:25 - Changes in diet: plant-based, cutting processed foods, and nutritional strategies 14:10 - The physical aspect: running during treatment and ultramarathon achievements 16:35 - Outliving prognosis: the fuel of determination and consistency 18:15 - The significance of tumor shrinkage and the role of active health practices 19:40 - The journey to remission and the tests confirming no active cancer 21:16 - The importance of community, support, and shared journey 23:09 - Marcos’s ongoing work: retreats, motivational speaking, and helping others 25:31 - Living cancer-free: reflections on lifestyle and ongoing health practices 28:27 - Maintaining health and the role of diet, exercise, and mindset post-remission 39:48 - Marcos’s top tip: mindset as the key to transformation and healing 41:37 - Final thoughts on small choices, resilience, and the power of “what if” Resources & Links:The Truth About CancerBook: The Wim Hof MethodNic, Nutritional Therapist (for eating seasonally and nutritional advice)Connect with Marcos Jarvis:InstagramRetreats & Motivational Talks

About

Your Way Now is the podcast for people affected by cancer who want real support without the fluff. Hosted by Sue and Sarah, each episode brings entertainment, straight-talking conversation, and genuinely useful tips you can try alongside traditional treatment. We talk about the stuff people whisper about, the stuff nobody warns you about, and the small changes that can make life feel a bit more manageable. Expect: honest, human chat with warmth and humourpractical “try this today” ideas for mind, body and everyday lifeclarity when everything feels messyencouragement that helps you take your next step, your wayWhether you’re living with cancer, supporting someone you love, or finding your feet after treatment, you’ll leave each episode feeling less alone and more able to cope. New episodes fortnightly. Follow Your Way Now and take what helps, leave what doesn’t.