Cancer Fitness Clubcast with Mike Grisenthwaite

In today’s episode, Mike is joined by Jane Roberts, who shares the remarkable story of how what she thought were perimenopause symptoms, including memory lapses and brain fog, ultimately led to an unexpected brain tumour diagnosis.

Jane opens up about the shock of discovering she had brain cancer, the fear and uncertainty surrounding her diagnosis, and the difficult decisions around biopsy, treatment, and living with a watch-and-wait approach.

She also shares how running became a vital coping tool, giving her a sense of control while helping her turn a deeply personal experience into a platform for fundraising and awareness. From completing a half marathon dressed as a giant brain to training for the London Marathon, Jane is determined to raise money for research and shine a greater light on brain tumours.

Jane discusses the challenges of limited treatment options, the urgent need for greater research and funding, and why she describes herself as a “hope hunter.” For Jane, hope isn’t about simply waiting for something to change,it’s about asking questions, making connections, challenging the status quo, and taking action.

This is a powerful conversation about resilience, uncertainty, finding purpose, and choosing to keep moving forward when life suddenly changes direction.

To find out more, see the links below:

Jane Roberts: https://www.instagram.com/memybraintumourandi/

Donate here: https://www.justgiving.com/page/jane-roberts-8

Mike Grisenthwaite: https://www.instagram.com/cancer_fitness_coach/

CFC Active: https://linktr.ee/cfcactive

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In today's episode, Mike is joined in the studio by Dr. Shaunna Burke, researcher, expedition climber, motivational speaker, and a woman redefining what it means to live with purpose in the face of adversity.

Diagnosed with Stage 4 incurable cancer, Dr. Shaunna shares her extraordinary journey of climbing Mount Everest while living with stage four breast cancer. Blending adventure, science, and unwavering determination, Dr. Shaunna reveals how purpose became the driving force behind achieving one of the world's greatest mountaineering feats in the face of a life-changing diagnosis.

We explore the physical and psychological demands of preparing for Everest, from high-altitude chamber training and physiological adaptation to managing the extreme conditions of the mountain. Dr. Shaunna also discusses the groundbreaking scientific research carried out alongside the expedition, investigating how the body and immune system respond to both cancer and high-altitude environments.

The conversation highlights the importance of teamwork, trust, and community in overcoming impossible odds, while offering powerful insights into resilience, motivation, and finding strength through purpose. Dr. Shaunna also shares her ambitious goal of climbing all 14 of the world's 8,000-metre peaks to raise awareness, inspire others, and support vital cancer research.

This is an unforgettable story of courage, hope, and proving that a diagnosis doesn't have to define what's possible.

To find out more, see the links below:

Website: www.dyingtoclimb.com

Donate to Macmillan Cancer Support: JustGiving Page

Support the expedition: GoFundMe – Dying to Climb

Mike Grisenthwaite: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mgrisenthwaite/

CFC Active: https://linktr.ee/cfcactive

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to the Cancer Fitness Clubcast with Mike Grisenthwaite

In today's episode, Mike is joined by Dr Lucy Gossage,. She is a British doctor, cancer specialist, and former professional triathlete who currently works at Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust. A two-time European duathlon champion and multiple Ironman winner, Lucy has combined her passion for sport and medicine to champion exercise as a powerful tool in cancer care.

In this episode, Dr Lucy shares how movement can improve physical and mental wellbeing throughout the cancer journey, from diagnosis to recovery and beyond. We explore the growing evidence behind exercise as medicine, the impact of community initiatives like 5K Your Way, and why staying active can help people regain confidence, resilience, and hope.

This inspiring conversation challenges the myth that rest is always best and highlights how movement, support, and connection can help people live well with and beyond cancer.

To find out more about Dr Lucy or anything discussed in today's episode, please head to the below links:

Dr Lucy Gossage

Website: https://lucygossage.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lucygossage/?hl=en

Move Against Cancer: https://www.moveagainstcancer.org/5k-your-way/

Mike Grisenthwaite: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mgrisenthwaite/

CFC Active: https://linktr.ee/cfcactive

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to the Cancer Fitness Clubcast with Mike Grisenthwaite

In this episode, Bex Hind shares her extraordinary journey of resilience after being diagnosed with the incredibly rare cancer pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP), often referred to as "jelly belly cancer." What began as suspected food poisoning led to a life-altering diagnosis with odds of just one in two million, forcing Bex to confront a future she never imagined.

Bex opens up about the importance of early detection and specialist care, taking us through the complex realities of her treatment, including major cytoreductive surgery, heated chemotherapy, and the possibility of future transplants. Despite the ongoing challenges of bowel obstructions, tumour recurrence, and uncertainty, she has refused to let cancer define her life.

We explore how exercise and endurance became powerful tools in her recovery, helping her rebuild both physically and mentally. Bex shares the mindset strategies that keep her moving forward, the inspiration she has drawn from figures such as Sir Chris Hoy, and the invaluable role played by family, friends, charities, and the wider cancer community.

From taking on epic cycling challenges, including the Tour de Four, to embracing bucket-list adventures and redefining what life after diagnosis can look like, Bex's story is one of hope, courage, and choosing to live fully in the face of adversity.

This episode is a powerful reminder that while a diagnosis may change the path you're on, it doesn't have to diminish the strength, purpose, and possibility that lie ahead.

To find out more about Bex or to donate please head to the below links:

Bex Hind

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bexhind85/

GoFund Me: https://www.gofundme.com/f/BexH-tour-de-4-2026

Mike Grisenthwaite: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mgrisenthwaite/

CFC Active: https://linktr.ee/cfcactive

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to the Cancer Fitness Clubcast with Mike Grisenthwaite

In this episode, Ursula Martin shares her extraordinary journey from surviving ovarian cancer at just 32 years old to embarking on epic walking adventures across Europe. Turning trauma into transformation, Ursula reveals how long-distance walking became a path to healing, resilience, and rediscovering herself after cancer.

We explore the importance of flexibility, pacing, and embracing vulnerability during ultra-endurance challenges, as well as why walking, our most natural form of movement—can have such a profound impact on mental and emotional wellbeing. Ursula reflects on the spontaneous decisions that led her across the Danube, through Wales, Ukraine, and beyond, and how letting go of control opened the door to deeper self-discovery.

The conversation also touches on navigating the isolation of COVID-19 lockdowns, learning to accept failure and imperfection, and the lessons that come from slowing down and allowing space for mistakes. Ursula shares insights into her upcoming projects and her ongoing search for connection, purpose, and a true sense of place.

This episode is a powerful reminder that healing isn’t always about returning to who you were before—it can be about discovering someone entirely new along the way.

Ursula Martin

Buy Ursula’s books here: Amazon – One Woman Walks Europe

Follow Ursula on Instagram: @onewomanwalks

Mike Grisenthwaite: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mgrisenthwaite/

CFC Active: https://linktr.ee/cfcactive

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to the Cancer Fitness Clubcast with Mike Grisenthwaite

Joining Mike for another chat is Professor Robert Newton (PhD, DSc)

Professor Robert is a globally recognised leader in exercise medicine and exercise oncology, and a Professor at the Exercise Medicine Research Institute at Edith Cowan University. With over 950 scientific publications and more than $45 million in research funding, his work pioneers the use of exercise as a targeted therapy for cancer. 

He is also the author of My Exercise Medicine for Cancer, Professor Newton champions the concept that precisely prescribed exercise is powerful medicine for improving treatment outcomes and quality of life.

In this episode, Robert shares how tailored exercise is reshaping cancer care, from supporting children with cancer to improving outcomes for prostate cancer survivors. We explore how movement can reduce treatment side effects, preserve muscle and bone health, and enhance overall quality of life.

Robert also dives into the science behind inflammation and the gut microbiome, the role of sleep and recovery, and how digital health and AI could expand access to personalised exercise support. The conversation tackles common barriers to staying active during treatment and debunks myths like the link between cycling and prostate cancer.

A powerful insight into how the right approach to movement can become a vital part of cancer recovery and long-term health.

For further information about Mike or todays guest please head to the below links:

Professor Robert Newton

• My exercise medicine consultancy is through a company called FitMed www.fitmed.com
• We have an office in Wimbledon and provide integrative oncology support across the United Kingdom. This includes world leading exercise oncology, nutrition therapy, and psycho-oncology.
• People can purchase my book through Amazon and in the UK the link is https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1764297512/
• For an informative and entertaining video I suggest the presentation I gave at the Prostate Cancer Research Institute Conference in Los Angeles last year https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XXTcYilkPJo

Mike Grisenthwaite: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mgrisenthwaite/

CFC Active: https://linktr.ee/cfcactive

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Content Warning: This episode includes discussions around baby loss, grief, and trauma. Please take care while listening and seek support if anything feels overwhelming.

In this episode, we dive into the powerful role of movement in cancer recovery with Sarah Newton, founder of Get Me Back UK. From her own experience as both a sport enthusiast and cancer survivor, Sarah has built a mission-driven platform helping people rebuild strength, confidence, and control through tailored exercise programmes.

We explore how physical activity supports not just recovery, but mental wellbeing during and after treatment, and why personalised movement plans are key at every stage of the cancer journey. Sarah shares insights into pre-rehabilitation and how preparing the body before treatment can significantly improve outcomes, as well as how exercise can be safely adapted around chemotherapy, surgery, and beyond.

The conversation also highlights the long-term benefits of strength training for longevity and functional health, alongside the innovations that brought cancer-specific programmes online during COVID. Sarah opens up about supporting both men and women across a range of cancer types, and her vision for the future, expanding access through retreats, collaborations, and continued education.

This episode is a powerful reminder that movement is more than fitness, it’s a vital part of healing, resilience, and reclaiming life after cancer.

To find out more, see the links below:

Get Me Back UK: https://www.instagram.com/getmebackuk/

Mike Grisenthwaite: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mgrisenthwaite/

CFC Active: https://linktr.ee/cfcactive

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In today's episode Mike sits down with the remarkable Dave Granger,

Dave is a seasoned endurance athlete who faced a life-changing throat cancer diagnosis yet went on to conquer some of the most grueling endurance challenges. From childhood injuries and military service to a career in carpentry and marathon running, Dave shares how he navigated the physical and mental trials of cancer treatment, including the brutal effects of radiotherapy and living with a PEG feeding tube.

Dave opens up about overcoming disappointment after his first English Channel swim attempt, the preparation and determination that led to his successful crossing, and his experiences tackling feats like cycling the Tour de France for charity, fueled only by custard.

Packed with insights on mental resilience, planning, and perseverance, this episode offers inspiration and practical advice for athletes, cancer survivors, and anyone facing adversity.

To find out more, see the links below:

Mike Grisenthwaite: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mgrisenthwaite/

CFC Active: https://linktr.ee/cfcactive

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In today's episode, Mike sits down with Dr. Shaunna Burke, researcher, expedition climber, motivational speaker, and a woman redefining what it means to live with purpose in the face of adversity.

Diagnosed with Stage 4 incurable cancer, Shaunna is preparing for a historic return to Mount Everest in 2026 while undergoing treatment. This journey is being captured in the independent film Dying to Climb.

But this story isn’t about “fighting” illness in the traditional sense. It’s about something even more powerful: choosing to live fully alongside it.

From summiting Everest in 2005 to now returning with a renewed sense of mission, Shaunna shares how mountaineering, mindset, movement, and meaning have shaped her life. She also discusses how her groundbreaking research at the University of Leeds is transforming how we think about exercise, resilience, and quality of life for people living with Stage 4 cancer.

This conversation is a masterclass in mental toughness, purpose, adaptability, and hope proving that a diagnosis does not mean the end of ambition, adventure, or identity.

To find out more, see the links below:

Website: www.dyingtoclimb.com

Donate to Macmillan Cancer Support: JustGiving Page

Support the expedition: GoFundMe – Dying to Climb

Mike Grisenthwaite: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mgrisenthwaite/

CFC Active: https://linktr.ee/cfcactive

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to the Cancer Fitness Clubcast with Mike Grisenthwaite

Joining Mike today is Professor Robert Newton (PhD, DSc)

Professor Robert is a globally recognised leader in exercise medicine and exercise oncology, and a Professor at the Exercise Medicine Research Institute at Edith Cowan University. With over 950 scientific publications and more than $45 million in research funding, his work pioneers the use of exercise as a targeted therapy for cancer. 

He is also the author of My Exercise Medicine for Cancer, Professor Newton champions the concept that precisely prescribed exercise is powerful medicine for improving treatment outcomes and quality of life.

Mike and Robert explore how exercise is reshaping the future of cancer treatment. As a global leader in exercise oncology, he shares the science behind using movement as targeted therapy, not just for recovery, but as a core component of treatment itself.

From preserving muscle mass during chemotherapy to enhancing the effectiveness of immunotherapy, Professor Newton breaks down why early, personalised exercise interventions can significantly improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

This episode challenges outdated perceptions of rest during treatment and highlights how precision exercise is becoming an essential pillar of modern cancer care.

For further information about Mike or todays guest please head to the below links:

Professor Robert Newton

• My exercise medicine consultancy is through a company called FitMed www.fitmed.com
• We have an office in Wimbledon and provide integrative oncology support across the United Kingdom. This includes world leading exercise oncology, nutrition therapy, and psycho-oncology.
• People can purchase my book through Amazon and in the UK the link is https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1764297512/
• For an informative and entertaining video I suggest the presentation I gave at the Prostate Cancer Research Institute Conference in Los Angeles last year https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XXTcYilkPJo

Mike Grisenthwaite: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mgrisenthwaite/

CFC Active: https://linktr.ee/cfcactive

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.