Beatson Talks

Host Laura Boyd is joined by Vikki Ridler, who shares her story of being diagnosed with cervical cancer at the age of 27 - just days before her birthday. Vikki talks openly about routine smear tests, early cell changes, the shock of diagnosis, and the reality of surgery and recovery as a young mum. She also reflects on life after cancer, advocating for cervical screening, finding new purpose in work, and the support she found at The Beatson.

In the final episode of Season Five, Laura Boyd speaks with Rachel and Don McKie, a remarkable couple who have turned personal heartbreak into purpose. After losing their son Graham to glioblastoma, an aggressive brain tumour, they have dedicated themselves to supporting Beatson Cancer Charity and Brain Tumour Research, helping to raise awareness and vital funds for this underrepresented area of cancer research. 

From volunteering in the Beatson café to organising community fundraisers, the McKies share how their love for Graham continues to inspire everything they do, proving that even in loss, hope and kindness can create a powerful legacy. 

Join host Laura Boyd as she speaks with Sheena Wright, who shares how she’s doing “remarkably well” nearly a year after completing treatment. Sheena opens up about the first signs that led to her diagnosis, the support of her family, and the comfort she found in the warmth and care of The Beatson. 

From learning to play the bagpipes in retirement to planning a dream trip to New Zealand, Sheena’s story is full of strength, gratitude and a renewed love for life. She also offers thoughtful advice for anyone beginning treatment, reminding us of the power of connection, hope and positivity. 

Sensitivity Warning: This episode includes personal stories and discussions about cancer diagnosis and treatment. Some listeners may find the content distressing. Listener discretion is advised. 

Join host Laura Boyd as she speaks with Audrey Sykes, who recently took part in Off the Beatson Track to mark five years since her breast cancer diagnosis. Audrey shares her journey from diagnosis during lockdown, through treatment, to the emotional moment of ringing the bell. 

She reflects on life after treatment, the support of her family, and how connecting with others has opened doors for sharing stories and reassurance. From tackling hills she’d never climbed before to the unforgettable sense of community at the walk, Audrey’s story is full of resilience, gratitude, and hope. 

Sensitivity Warning: This episode includes personal stories and discussions about cancer diagnosis and treatment. Some listeners may find the content distressing. Listener discretion is advised. 

Join host Laura Boyd as she speaks with Michael Gallacher, a young dad whose stage 3 stomach cancer diagnosis changed his life. Michael opens up about the shock of his diagnosis, the support he found through treatment at The Beatson, and the inspiration he drew from fellow patients. 

He also shares how he’s channelled his experience into epic fundraising challenges — from the Highlander Triathlon to a decade of charity adventures raising over £50,000 — all while focusing on family, recovery, and gratitude. Honest and inspiring, this episode shows how resilience can lead to new purpose and hope. 

Sensitivity Warning: This episode includes personal stories and discussions about cancer diagnosis and treatment. Some listeners may find the content distressing. Listener discretion is advised. 

Join host Laura Boyd as she speaks with Chris and Laura Ferri about life after Chris’s bowel cancer diagnosis at just 32. The couple open up about the shock of hearing the news, the challenges of living with a stoma, and the support they received from The Beatson. 

They also share how they’ve turned their experiences into fundraising events- from a 24-hour fitness challenge to icy sea plunges - while championing community spirit and men’s mental health. Honest, uplifting, and full of gratitude, this episode is a powerful reminder of resilience and love. 

Sensitivity Warning: This episode includes personal stories and discussions about cancer diagnosis and treatment. Some listeners may find the content distressing. Listener discretion is advised. This may include some strong language.

Join host Laura Boyd as the spotlight shifts and she takes the guest seat in this special episode, with Beatson Cancer Charity CEO Gillian Hailstones stepping in to lead the conversation. Laura speaks openly about being diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukaemia at just 29, and the reality of living with cancer for more than 16 years. She also shares the deeply personal story of how her sister-in-law helped her become a mum through surrogacy. This honest and heartfelt conversation touches on resilience, love, and the strength that comes from the people around us. 

Sensitivity Warning: This episode includes personal stories and discussions about terminal illness, cancer diagnosis and treatment. Some listeners may find the content distressing. Listener discretion is advised

 Join host Laura Boyd in conversation with Bryan Marshall - musician, choir leader, and passionate Beatson supporter. Bryan shares his personal journey from community fundraiser to cancer caregiver when his wife Suzanne was diagnosed with stage 4 non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Through music, fundraising, and the power of positivity, Bryan and his family have become pillars of support for the Beatson Cancer Charity. 

Sensitivity Warning: This episode includes personal stories and discussions about terminal illness, cancer diagnosis and treatment. Some listeners may find the content distressing. Listener discretion is advised. 

Join host Laura Boyd in conversation with Donna Hicks, who opens up about the life-altering year she and her family faced a double cancer diagnosis. Just two weeks after her mum was diagnosed with terminal lung cancer, Donna was told she had multiple myeloma - a rare and incurable blood cancer. 

Donna shares the emotional toll of keeping her diagnosis a secret, her treatment at The Beatson, and how support from the Wellbeing Centre helped her through some of the most difficult moments - from wig fittings during lockdown to the comfort of small, thoughtful gestures. 

She also reflects on life beyond treatment, the vital role fundraising plays in keeping services at The Beatson going, and the unexpected joy she’s found in community projects, street dance, and making lasting memories with her children. 

Sensitivity Warning: This episode includes personal stories and discussions about terminal illness, cancer diagnosis and treatment. Some listeners may find the content distressing. Listener discretion is advised. 

Join host Laura Boyd in conversation with David Wynne, who shares how three heart attacks and a cancer diagnosis changed the course of his life. What began as a series of life-threatening events became the start of something transformative. 

David reflects on his experience as a patient at The Beatson, the emotional toll of treatment, and how volunteering became a part of his recovery. From serving tea on Ward B4, he talks about the unexpected joy he's found in giving back. 

Sensitivity Warning: This episode includes personal stories and discussions about cancer diagnosis and treatment. Some listeners may find the content distressing. Listener discretion is advised.