*This episode includes discussion of suicide and may be distressing for some listeners. Please take care while listening and consider seeking support if needed.

In this episode of the Talking Blood Cancer podcast, host Maryanne Skarparis sits down with Barry Du Bois, well-known TV presenter, builder, and ambassador for the Leukaemia Foundation, to discuss his lived experience with blood cancer. Barry speaks openly about his multiple diagnosis, including his first cancer diagnosis in 2011 and his later experience with multiple myeloma, providing insight into both the patient and carer perspectives.

Barry shares the challenges he faced starting from his mother’s cancer journey in a country town, the trauma of losing a pregnancy with his wife Leonie, and then caring for Leonie during her own cancer diagnosis. He highlights the emotional toll of supporting loved ones through cancer, describing what he calls “borrowed trauma,” and reflects on the feelings of grief, isolation, and depression that followed. Sharing the importance of human connection and communication in helping him rebuild resilience during these difficult times.

They talked about the significance of honest and empathetic conversation. Barry explains the different types of conversations people need during cancer, whether it’s solution-based, social, or empathy-focused, and encourages listeners to ask questions rather than offer solutions. Barry illustrates how small acts of empathy, such as a supportive phone call or a simple presence, were key in helping him take “micro steps” toward regaining his wellbeing.

People will benefit from Barry’s honesty about vulnerability, the realities of living with an incurable blood disease, and the gentle encouragement to seek connection and small moments of joy while managing the ups and downs of a cancer diagnosis.

From Barry:

Breath work has been a quiet but powerful part of my life for many years.

When I was told I had just three months to live due to blood cancer — a diagnosis I now live with — I needed simple ways to steady myself when everything felt uncertain.

Breath work became one of those anchors.

Slow, intentional breathing supports oxygen delivery to the blood, encourages circulation, and helps calm the nervous system. That state of calm can support immune health, recovery, and the body’s ability to cope with treatment and fatigue.

It’s not about fixing anything or forcing positivity.

It’s simply about giving your body a moment of ease.

I’ve created a free, guided breath work video for anyone who feels it may help — patients, carers, or loved ones.

You can access it here:

👉 https://barrydubois.com/breathworktyp

There’s nothing to get right.

Just follow along and breathe.

—--

For more information about the Leukaemia Foundation visit: https://www.leukaemia.org.au

The Talking Blood Cancer Podcast is brought to you by the Leukaemia Foundation and is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/network

In this episode of the Talking Blood Cancer podcast, host Maryanne Skarparis welcomes guest Candice Forward, a mother of three, who shares her family’s experience with her youngest son River who was diagnosed with T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia at the age of two and a half.

Candice describes the early signs of River’s illness and the response that led to his diagnosis. Detailing the intensive nine-month treatment period, during which River spent most of his time as an inpatient, and the impact it had on their family’s daily routine. Exploring how Candice and her partner balanced caring for River and their two other children.

The emotional and psychological challenges that come from caring for a child with blood cancer, including the importance of accessing professional support. Candice explains how engaging with a psychologist helped her process trauma and manage communication with her children. She also discusses the aftermath of treatment, including River’s bone marrow transplant with his older brother Reid as the donor.

Candice speaks honestly about managing survivor’s guilt, the emotional toll of post-treatment adjustment, and how simple daily practices like gratitude and self-care have helped her and her children move forward. They reflect on the value of peer support, the importance of open communication, and the need for ongoing advocacy to address the broader support needs of families affected by blood cancer.

For more information about the Leukaemia Foundation visit: https://www.leukaemia.org.au

The Talking Blood Cancer Podcast is brought to you by the Leukaemia Foundation and is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/network

Welcome to a new season of the Talking Blood Cancer podcast!

In this episode, host Kate Arkadieff sits down with guest Alysia North who shares her personal journey after being diagnosed in 2022 with Hodgkin's lymphoma at age 28. Living in Central Queensland and navigating life as a new mother at the time, Alysia describes the sudden onset of symptoms and the psychological impact of moving from healthcare professional to patient.

Looking through the challenges Alysia faced as she underwent chemotherapy, the loss of independence, and the emotional toll of hair loss and physical changes. She openly discusses the impact on her family. The reliance on her support network, especially her husband and mother, and the adjustments required when caring for her infant son, Theo, during treatment.

A significant part of Alysia’s story is her experience with fertility preservation. She made the difficult decision to focus on recovery for the sake of her family. Despite a high likelihood of infertility following chemotherapy, nearly two years after finishing treatment, Alysia naturally conceived her second child, Charlie, whom she describes as a "miracle baby." This brought hope and joy during her survivorship and helped her heal emotionally from her cancer journey.

Throughout the episode, Alysia provides practical advice for other young people and parents facing blood cancer, emphasising the resilience of children and the importance of accepting help. Exploring how recovery is a gradual process and the ongoing need for psychosocial support.

For more information about the Leukaemia Foundation visit: https://www.leukaemia.org.au

The Talking Blood Cancer Podcast is brought to you by the Leukaemia Foundation and is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/network

In this wrap-up episode of the Talking Blood Cancer podcast, hosts Kate Arkadieff and Maryanne Skarparis reflect on the year’s conversations and the impact of sharing lived experiences with blood cancer. Together, they look back at stories shared by people at different stages of their journeys, from those newly diagnosed, to long-term survivors, young parents balancing treatment and family, and healthcare professionals offering their perspectives from within the system.

Highlighting how each individual’s story is unique, yet many common threads connect people affected by blood cancer. They discuss the honesty with which guests have spoken, not only about the challenges of fear, uncertainty, and grief, but also about moments of connection, unexpected joy, and personal strength.

Offering reassurance and appreciation, reinforcing the value of community and shared support for those navigating blood cancer.

For more information about the Leukaemia Foundation visit: https://www.leukaemia.org.au

The Talking Blood Cancer Podcast is brought to you by the Leukaemia Foundation and is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/network

In this episode of the Talking Blood Cancer podcast, host Maryanne Skarparis is joined by Ian Brandon to discuss his experiences caring for his wife Cheryl, who battled non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. They delve into the journey that began in 2012 when Cheryl was first diagnosed, reflecting on the years of treatment and care they underwent together.

Ian recounts Cheryl's initial reluctance to seek medical help and the rapid developments that followed her eventual collapse and hospitalisation. Outlining the difficult but crucial steps taken in seeking treatment, including the critical role played by the Wesley Hospital in Brisbane.

Exploring the immense support provided by the Leukaemia Foundation, including their accommodations and resources, which helped Ian and Cheryl through ten years of challenging times. Ian highlights having confidence in the medical team and the significance of the support network provided by the Leukaemia Foundation to both patients and carers.

They also touched on the emotional and logistical aspects at the end of Cheryl's journey, emphasising the critical support from various healthcare teams, including the palliative care unit and the ongoing significance of blood donations.

For more information about the Leukaemia Foundation visit: https://www.leukaemia.org.au

The Talking Blood Cancer Podcast is brought to you by the Leukaemia Foundation and is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/network

In this episode of the Talking Blood Cancer podcast, host Kate Arkadieff speaks with Andy Fithall, who shares his personal experience of being diagnosed with Chronic Lymphocytic Leukaemia (CLL) at the age of 40. Highlighting the challenges of receiving a blood cancer diagnosis during the COVID-19 pandemic and navigating the “watch and wait” approach, which can be an unfamiliar and sometimes isolating experience.

Andy discusses how his diagnosis occurred unexpectedly when he was being screened for haemochromatosis. Describing the shock of hearing the diagnosis, and the anxiety that followed during the days leading up to his first specialist appointment. He reflects on the impact this news had on him, and the process of telling his diagnosis to his wife and two children in an age-appropriate way. 

They explore the psychosocial aspects of living with blood cancer, particularly in a “watch and wait” situation. Andy talks about managing anxiety, the periodic worries triggered by upcoming blood tests, and the challenge of balancing normal life with the uncertainty that comes from not knowing if or when treatment will be needed. 

They also touched on the feelings of loneliness and isolation that can come with a diagnosis where immediate treatment is not required. Andy notes that although he looks healthy from the outside, the emotional impact of living with blood cancer is real. Emphasising the value of being honest with loved ones about what he is experiencing and encourages others in similar situations to reach out for support.

For more information about the Leukaemia Foundation visit: https://www.leukaemia.org.au

The Talking Blood Cancer Podcast is brought to you by the Leukaemia Foundation and is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/network

In this episode of the Talking Blood Cancer podcast, host Maryanne Skarparis sits down with Prue Meier and her son Chase to discuss their journey navigating blood cancer. Chase, who is now ten years old, was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) when he was just four.

Chase shared some light-hearted reflections on his memories of the special room where he received cookies during his treatments, and his life at school today. Which showed a glimpse into Chase’s resilience and serves as a reminder of the unique experiences of young cancer patients.

Prue opens up about the early signs that led to Chase’s diagnosis and the things that followed. She discusses the challenging period of their lives, the initial symptoms, the anxieties as a parent, and the crucial role played by the healthcare team and the Leukemia Foundation. Prue also shares the touching story of being Chase’s bone marrow donor and all the emotions tied to that experience.

They further delve into life post-treatment and the adjustments as Chase returned to a semblance of normalcy, emphasising the support network they had, including family, friends, and the community at the Leukemia Foundation. Prue highlights practical tips for families going through similar experiences, such as accepting help and capturing memories through photographs.

For more information about the Leukaemia Foundation visit: https://www.leukaemia.org.au

The Talking Blood Cancer Podcast is brought to you by the Leukaemia Foundation and is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/network

In this episode of the Talking Blood Cancer podcast, host Kate Arkadieff speaks with Yani Zhao, who shares her experience of being diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) at the age of 21. Yani reflects on how her diagnosis came at a time when she was studying at university and competing at a high level in powerlifting. She describes the early symptoms she noticed, such as fatigue, night sweats, breathlessness, and swollen lymph nodes, which she initially attributed to her busy university and training schedule.

Yani talks about her journey from diagnosis through treatment, including an urgent hospital admission, multiple rounds of intensive chemotherapy, and navigating conversations around fertility preservation. She explains that doctors began the process of searching for a bone marrow donor but were unable to find a suitable match, leading her to undergo further chemotherapy instead of a transplant. Yani shares the physical and emotional toll of her treatment to slowly rebuild her health afterward.

They covered how Yani's background in sports and strength training influenced her recovery, providing her with a strong base to regain mobility. Over time, she was able to not only reclaim her health but also break her previous Australian powerlifting records, demonstrating her resilience and determination.

They end with Yani encouraging listeners to take a gradual and individualised approach to recovery, to accept support, and to recognise that it is possible to regain strength and purpose after a blood cancer diagnosis.

For more information about the Leukaemia Foundation visit: https://www.leukaemia.org.au

The Talking Blood Cancer Podcast is brought to you by the Leukaemia Foundation and is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/network

In this episode of the Talking Blood Cancer podcast, host Maryanne Skarparis speaks with guest Melissa Rodger, who shares her family's experience following her daughter Chloe’s diagnosis with acute myeloid leukaemia at just nine years old.

Melissa gives an honest recount of Chloe’s initial symptoms, the shock of diagnosis, and the rapid transition into hospital treatment, which included chemotherapy beginning in ICU. Melissa provides insights into the emotional toll the situation took on the entire family, discussing how they navigated the early days in a state of uncertainty and relied on the treating team’s guidance.

Exploring the complexities around treatment decisions, including the process of finding a donor for Chloe’s bone marrow transplant. Melissa explains that despite a thorough search, no suitable unrelated donor was found, and a haploidentical (half-matched) transplant using a parent’s cells became necessary—first from Melissa herself, and after a relapse, from Chloe’s father. She openly discusses both the practicalities and emotions involved in being a donor, as well as the family’s coping strategies during these challenging times.

They also talked about Chloe’s adjustment to life after treatment, her gradual return to school, and the ongoing efforts by Melissa and her family to support Chloe’s physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing. Melissa also offers advice on maintaining mental health as a parent or carer during a child’s cancer diagnosis, stressing the importance of hope, connection, and open communication within families.

For more information about the Leukaemia Foundation visit: https://www.leukaemia.org.au

The Talking Blood Cancer Podcast is brought to you by the Leukaemia Foundation and is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/network

In this episode of the Talking Blood Cancer podcast, host Maryanne Skarparis sits down with guest Sharyn Polce to discuss Sharyn's lived experience with chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML). Sharyn recounts her diagnosis almost 15 years ago and openly talks about the challenges she faced both before and after learning she had blood cancer.

Sharyn describes the symptoms that initially went unnoticed, such as unusual tiredness and persistent bruising, and shares the shock and uncertainty she felt upon diagnosis. Outlining her journey through multiple clinical trials, medication changes due to mutations, and eventually a stem cell transplant from an anonymous donor in Germany. Throughout, Sharyn reflects on the crucial role her support network played—including her adult children, her partner Troy, friends, and the Leukaemia Foundation—in helping her to manage the impact of her diagnosis and treatment.

Highlighting the importance of emotional wellbeing, positive mindset, and practical support for both patients and carers. Sharyn discusses the emotional stresses of living with blood cancer, including the strain on her relationships and self-confidence, as well as the support she received from professional counsellors and peer mentors. 

Sharyn and Maryanne emphasise that everyone’s journey is different, but encourages listeners to not hesitate to seek support and to listen to their own bodies. Sharyn’s story is one of resilience, openness, and hope, offering comfort to those living with blood cancer and to the people who care for them.

For more information about the Leukaemia Foundation visit: https://www.leukaemia.org.au

The Talking Blood Cancer Podcast is brought to you by the Leukaemia Foundation and is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/network