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Potassium, Pain & A&E

Welcome back to Who’s Tom & Dick.

Today’s episode is a little different. It’s personal. It’s honest. And it’s something so many people quietly go through but rarely talk about openly.

This episode dives into potassium levels — what they mean, why they matter, and how a simple blood result can suddenly make you look at your health in a completely different way. When numbers start creeping up, questions start racing. Is it serious? Is it heart-related? Is it medication? Is it something more?

But this isn’t just about blood tests.

It’s about that dull ache on the right-hand side of your abdomen. The discomfort. The bloating. The worry that something isn’t quite right. And the decision we’ve all faced at some point — “Do I ignore this… or do I go to A&E?”

In this episode, we talk openly about a visit to the local A&E department, the examination process, the conversations with doctors, and hearing those three letters: IBS.

We break down:

• What potassium actually does in the body
 • Why levels can rise
 • When it becomes dangerous
 • How medications can influence it
 • The difference between anxiety and emergency
 • And what IBS really is — and isn’t

Most importantly, this episode is about reassurance. About understanding your body. About asking questions. And about not suffering in silence.

Because sometimes it’s not just the physical pain — it’s the uncertainty that weighs heavier.

If you’ve ever stared at blood test results and Googled yourself into panic… this one’s for you.

Let’s get into it.

#HeartTransplant
#eatingdisorder
#RareCondition
#HealthJourney
#LifeChangingDiagnosis
#MentalHealth
#Vulnerability
#SelfCompassion
#PostTraumaticGrowth
#MedicalMiracle
#BBCSports
#Inspiration
#Cardiology
#IBS
#Podcast
#Healthcare
#HeartHealth
#MedicalBreakthrough
#EmotionalJourney
#SupportSystem
#HealthcareHeroes
#PatientStories
#CardiologyCare
#MedicalJourney
#LifeLessons
#MentalWellness
#HealthAwareness
#InspirationalTalk
#LivingWithIllness
#RareDiseaseAwareness
#SharingIsCaring
#MedicalSupport
#BBCReporter
#HeartDisease
#PodcastInterview
#HealthTalk
#Empowerment
#Wellbeing
#HealthPodcast

#prostatecancer
#Aid's

#prostate

Check out our website at www.whostomanddick.com

Check out our website at www.whostomanddick.com

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Seasons 3 Episode 26

Podcast Introduction – UK Stroke Support & Grants Guide

Welcome back to Who’s Tom & Dick — the show where we explore real stories, real challenges, and real solutions.

In today’s episode, we’re focusing on something that affects thousands of people and families across the UK every year: life after stroke — and specifically, the financial support and practical help that can make all the difference on the road to recovery.

Having a stroke isn’t just a medical event — it often brings with it a whole new set of challenges. From adapting your home, to managing the costs of care, to navigating work and everyday life — many stroke survivors and their families find themselves asking: What help is out there? What support can I access? And how do I find it?

In this episode, we’re breaking down the key grants, benefits, and support schemes available in the UK to people affected by stroke, including:

• Personal Independence Payment (PIP) – financial support for extra living costs if you have long-term health conditions or disabilities.
• Attendance Allowance – for people aged over state pension age who need help with personal care.
• Carer’s Allowance – supporting people who care for someone with substantial care needs.
• Employment Support – what help is available for returning to work or adapting your role after a stroke.
• Disabled Facilities Grant – for home adaptations like grab rails, stairlifts, wet rooms, and more.
• Blue Badge Scheme – parking support for people with mobility challenges.
• Council Tax Reductions and other local support options.

We’ll also highlight the organisations and advisory services that can help you apply for these benefits, understand eligibility, and take the stress out of the process — including charities like Stroke Association, Age UK, Citizens Advice, Disability Rights UK, and specialist local support services.

Whether you’re a stroke survivor, a family member, a carer, or someone who just wants to understand what support is out there — this episode is for you.

We’ll explain what each benefit does, who qualifies, how to apply, and where to get trusted advice — because navigating the system shouldn’t add to your burden.

Let’s get into it.

Personal Independence Payments (PIP) - https://www.gov.uk/pip/how-to-claim

Attendance Allowance  - https://www.gov.uk/attendance-allowance/how-to-claim 

Blue Badge - https://www.gov.uk/apply-blue-badge

Council Tax Reduction - https://www.gov.uk/apply-council-tax-reduction

Stroke Association - https://www.stroke.org.uk/

Citizens Advice - https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/

#HeartTransplant
#eatingdisorder
#RareCondition
#HealthJourney
#LifeChangingDiagnosis
#MentalHealth
#Vulnerability
#SelfCompassion
#PostTraumaticGrowth
#MedicalMiracle
#BBCSports
#Inspiration
#Cardiology
#Surgery
#Podcast
#Healthcare
#HeartHealth
#MedicalBreakthrough
#EmotionalJourney
#SupportSystem
#HealthcareHeroes
#PatientStories
#CardiologyCare
#MedicalJourney
#LifeLessons
#MentalWellness
#HealthAwareness
#InspirationalTalk
#LivingWithIllness
#RareDiseaseAwareness
#SharingIsCaring
#MedicalSupport
#BBCReporter
#HeartDisease
#PodcastInterview
#HealthTalk
#Empowerment
#Wellbeing
#HealthPodcast

#prostatecancer
#Aid's

#prostate

Check out our website at www.whostomanddick.com

Check out our website at www.whostomanddick.com

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Season 3 Episode 25

🎙️ Podcast Introduction – Tony’s Stroke Journey

Today’s episode of Who’s Tom & Dick is again a deeply personal one.

Host Patrick sits down with someone incredibly close to his heart — his own brother, Tony. At 70 years old, Tony recently faced one of life’s most frightening and life-altering moments: a stroke.

What began as a holiday in Bournemouth quickly turned into a medical emergency that would change everything. Tony speaks openly and honestly about the moment it happened — the confusion, the fear, the realisation that something wasn’t right — and the swift response that saw him taken to hospital in Bournemouth, where the true scale of what he was facing began to unfold.

From there, his journey continued closer to home, transferred to hospital in Bury St Edmunds, surrounded by familiar voices and family presence. Tony reflects on the diagnosis, the early days of treatment, and the emotional weight that comes with hearing the word “stroke” for the first time — not as a headline, but as your own reality.

He talks candidly about the physical impact, the vulnerability, and the frustration of having to relearn things you once took for granted. There are moments of honesty about fear and uncertainty — but also moments of gratitude. Because what shines through in this episode is not just Tony’s resilience, but the power of family and friendship.

From the dedicated staff who cared for him, to the rehabilitation unit in St Neots where recovery truly began, Tony shares what those weeks meant to him — the small victories, the setbacks, the determination to keep going. He speaks about the strength he found in the support of his loved ones, how everyone rallied around, and what it feels like to finally return home with a new perspective on life.

This is a story about survival. About community. And about never underestimating the importance of acting FAST when it comes to stroke symptoms.

It’s emotional. It’s real. And it’s one of the most powerful conversations we’ve had.

Here’s Tony — in his own words.

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Season 3 Episode 24

In this deeply moving episode, Patrick is joined by Ian Trushell for one of the most open and honest conversations the podcast has ever hosted.

Ian is living with stage 4 bowel cancer, and in this episode he speaks with extraordinary courage and clarity about his journey — from the moment of diagnosis, through treatment, the physical and emotional toll, and the reality of living with a life-limiting illness. Nothing is sugar-coated, but nothing is said without heart.

Ian reflects on what it means to face his own mortality, the thoughts that come in quiet moments, and the strength he draws from his family and friends. He talks openly about fear, acceptance, resilience, and the small but powerful things that matter most when life is stripped back to its essentials.

This is not just a story about illness — it’s a conversation about love, connection, honesty, and dignity. Ian also shares thoughtful advice for others facing serious illness, for families supporting loved ones, and for anyone who may be avoiding that difficult conversation with themselves or others.

It’s raw, it’s real, and at times it’s incredibly emotional — but it’s also uplifting, grounding, and full of humanity. An episode that stays with you long after the microphones are switched off.

#HeartTransplant
#eatingdisorder
#RareCondition
#HealthJourney
#LifeChangingDiagnosis
#MentalHealth
#Vulnerability
#SelfCompassion
#PostTraumaticGrowth
#MedicalMiracle
#BBCSports
#Inspiration
#Cardiology
#Surgery
#Podcast
#Healthcare
#HeartHealth
#MedicalBreakthrough
#EmotionalJourney
#SupportSystem
#HealthcareHeroes
#PatientStories
#CardiologyCare
#MedicalJourney
#LifeLessons
#MentalWellness
#HealthAwareness
#InspirationalTalk
#LivingWithIllness
#RareDiseaseAwareness
#SharingIsCaring
#MedicalSupport
#BBCReporter
#HeartDisease
#PodcastInterview
#HealthTalk
#Empowerment
#Wellbeing
#HealthPodcast

#prostatecancer
#Aid's

#prostate

Check out our website at www.whostomanddick.com

Check out our website at www.whostomanddick.com

Send us Fan Mail

Season 3 Episode 23

On today’s episode, we welcome Jonny Weavers – Martin’s son – for a conversation that’s full of love, laughter, and lasting memories.

Jonny joins Patrick to look back on the life of his dad, Martin: not just the voice people knew and loved, but the man behind it all – a devoted father, a proud grandad, and someone who left a huge impression on everyone around him.

Together, they talk through Jonny’s childhood memories and the bond he shared with his dad, from a mutual love of comedy and sport, to family holidays, entertainment, and the simple joy of sharing comedy interests and comedy styles.

Jonny looks back on his remarkable achievements with Pallets gaining him the title of "Pallet Man" featuring on the popular TV program "Bargain Loving Brits"

It’s a conversation that celebrates Martin’s passion for life, his devoted wife Lynnie his family, his friends, and especially his much-loved grandchildren. Above all, this episode is a real tribute from a son to his dad – honest, affectionate, and full of gratitude – remembering Martin not just as a character, but as the best dad.

A moving, uplifting episode that reminds us how memories, humour, and shared interests keep the people we love very much alive.

#HeartTransplant
#eatingdisorder
#RareCondition
#HealthJourney
#LifeChangingDiagnosis
#MentalHealth
#Vulnerability
#SelfCompassion
#PostTraumaticGrowth
#MedicalMiracle
#BBCSports
#Inspiration
#Cardiology
#Surgery
#Podcast
#Healthcare
#HeartHealth
#MedicalBreakthrough
#EmotionalJourney
#SupportSystem
#HealthcareHeroes
#PatientStories
#CardiologyCare
#MedicalJourney
#LifeLessons
#MentalWellness
#HealthAwareness
#InspirationalTalk
#LivingWithIllness
#RareDiseaseAwareness
#SharingIsCaring
#MedicalSupport
#BBCReporter
#HeartDisease
#PodcastInterview
#HealthTalk
#Empowerment
#Wellbeing
#HealthPodcast

#prostatecancer
#Aid's

#prostate

Check out our website at www.whostomanddick.com

Check out our website at www.whostomanddick.com

Send us Fan Mail

Season 3 Episode 22

Today’s episode of Who’s Tom & Dick is a truly special one.

We’re welcoming back someone who holds a unique place in the story of this podcast — Andy Read, the very first guest to ever sit behind the mic with us. Andy returns this time not just as a guest, but as a friend, to talk openly and honestly about the sad loss of our co-host, Martin.

In this episode, Andy shares his memories of Martin — the laughs, the conversations, the opinions, and the moments that defined him both on and off the podcast. We talk about the things Martin loved most: sport and entertainment, and above all, people. The discussions are heartfelt, sometimes emotional, and often uplifting, just as Martin would have wanted.

This is a conversation about loss, but it’s also about legacy. About how the podcast began, how those early episodes set the tone, and how Martin’s voice, humour, and curiosity helped shape Who’s Tom & Dick into what it became.

There are smiles, stories, and a few difficult moments — but it’s a fitting tribute to a man who loved a good chat and believed in the power of conversation.

This one’s for Martin.

🎗️ A must-listen conversation that reminds us just how strong people can be, even in their darkest moments.

#HeartTransplant
#eatingdisorder
#RareCondition
#HealthJourney
#LifeChangingDiagnosis
#MentalHealth
#Vulnerability
#SelfCompassion
#PostTraumaticGrowth
#MedicalMiracle
#BBCSports
#Inspiration
#Cardiology
#Surgery
#Podcast
#Healthcare
#HeartHealth
#MedicalBreakthrough
#EmotionalJourney
#SupportSystem
#HealthcareHeroes
#PatientStories
#CardiologyCare
#MedicalJourney
#LifeLessons
#MentalWellness
#HealthAwareness
#InspirationalTalk
#LivingWithIllness
#RareDiseaseAwareness
#SharingIsCaring
#MedicalSupport
#BBCReporter
#HeartDisease
#PodcastInterview
#HealthTalk
#Empowerment
#Wellbeing
#HealthPodcast

#prostatecancer
#Aid's

#prostate

Check out our website at www.whostomanddick.com

Check out our website at www.whostomanddick.com

Send us Fan Mail

Season 3 Episode 21

A Story of Strength, Honesty, and Hope

In this deeply moving episode, Patrick sits down with Jenny Beards to share her extraordinary journey through breast cancer — from diagnosis to treatment, and everything in between. With openness, courage, and remarkable honesty, Jenny talks us through the moment her world changed, the decisions she faced, and the reality of navigating chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and ultimately a double mastectomy.

This is not a sugar-coated story. Jenny speaks candidly about the fear, the physical toll, the emotional lows, and the moments when everything felt overwhelming. But alongside the hard days are stories of resilience, humour, compassion, and the incredible care she received from medical professionals who helped carry her through the toughest chapters.

Just as powerfully, Jenny reflects on what comes after — finding strength she never knew she had, rebuilding confidence, and emerging on the other side with a renewed perspective on life. Her journey is one of survival, gratitude, and quiet determination, offering reassurance and hope to anyone facing cancer themselves, supporting a loved one, or wanting to better understand the reality behind the diagnosis.

This episode is honest, emotional, and ultimately uplifting — a testament to the human spirit, the importance of early awareness, and the life-changing impact of excellent treatment and support.

🎗️ A must-listen conversation that reminds us just how strong people can be, even in their darkest moments.

#HeartTransplant
#eatingdisorder
#RareCondition
#HealthJourney
#LifeChangingDiagnosis
#MentalHealth
#Vulnerability
#SelfCompassion
#PostTraumaticGrowth
#MedicalMiracle
#BBCSports
#Inspiration
#Cardiology
#Surgery
#Podcast
#Healthcare
#HeartHealth
#MedicalBreakthrough
#EmotionalJourney
#SupportSystem
#HealthcareHeroes
#PatientStories
#CardiologyCare
#MedicalJourney
#LifeLessons
#MentalWellness
#HealthAwareness
#InspirationalTalk
#LivingWithIllness
#RareDiseaseAwareness
#SharingIsCaring
#MedicalSupport
#BBCReporter
#HeartDisease
#PodcastInterview
#HealthTalk
#Empowerment
#Wellbeing
#HealthPodcast

#prostatecancer
#Aid's

#prostate

Check out our website at www.whostomanddick.com

Check out our website at www.whostomanddick.com

Send us Fan Mail

Season 3 Episode 20

Today’s podcast is a rather sombre one, as we come together to celebrate the life and times of my old mate, dear friend, and colleague Martin Weavers — the much-loved co-host of Who’s Tom & Dick. 

Martin sadly lost his battle with Stage 4 lung cancer earlier this week, surrounded by his family, listening to his famous tunes — and yes, it did include the Bay City Rollers. 

Martin and I knew each other for well over 30 years and formed a partnership filled with incredible chemistry and laughter. Together on the podcast, we shared not only stories and insights into health, illness, and resilience, but also the joy of everyday life — news, music, hobbies, and the kind of banter only old friends can deliver. 

Martin brought his unique voice, humour, and spirit to every episode, bravely speaking about his own journey with Stage 4 lung cancer as he fought with courage, honesty, and that unmistakable glint in his eye. 

His passion for good music — especially the classics — endeared him to listeners, and his ability to find laughter even in hard times defined the very soul of our show. 

Today we honour not just a brilliant co-host, but a true friend who made every moment richer for those who knew him.

As Martin always said "Turn that Frown upside down"

R.I.P dear Martin xx

#HeartTransplant
#eatingdisorder
#RareCondition
#HealthJourney
#LifeChangingDiagnosis
#MentalHealth
#Vulnerability
#SelfCompassion
#PostTraumaticGrowth
#MedicalMiracle
#BBCSports
#Inspiration
#Cardiology
#Surgery
#Podcast
#Healthcare
#HeartHealth
#MedicalBreakthrough
#EmotionalJourney
#SupportSystem
#HealthcareHeroes
#PatientStories
#CardiologyCare
#MedicalJourney
#LifeLessons
#MentalWellness
#HealthAwareness
#InspirationalTalk
#LivingWithIllness
#RareDiseaseAwareness
#SharingIsCaring
#MedicalSupport
#BBCReporter
#HeartDisease
#PodcastInterview
#HealthTalk
#Empowerment
#Wellbeing
#HealthPodcast

#prostatecancer
#Aid's

#prostate

Check out our website at www.whostomanddick.com

Check out our website at www.whostomanddick.com

Send us Fan Mail

Season 3 Episode 19

As we welcome in the New Year, Patrick opens this special episode of Who’s Tom & Dick with a slightly different format. Martin is sadly not with us today as he continues to recover from his recent illness and is currently battling laryngitis. We wish him a speedy recovery and look forward to having him back behind the mic very soon.

In Martin’s absence, this episode focuses on something that touches almost every family in some way — cancer. Patrick is joined by one of America’s leading oncologists Dr Usifar for an open, honest, and incredibly informative conversation designed to empower listeners with knowledge, clarity, and reassurance.

Together, they discuss the things everyone should know about cancer: early warning signs, changes in the body to look out for, when to seek medical advice, and how modern medicine is advancing detection and treatment. The conversation covers surgery, chemotherapy, treatment pathways, side effects, recovery, and emerging cures, as well as the emotional and physical realities patients and families often face.

The episode also tackles a critical and often overlooked topic — cancer-related scams — highlighting what to avoid, how to protect yourself and loved ones, and where to find trusted, evidence-based information.

This is a compassionate, practical, and eye-opening discussion aimed at starting the year informed, aware, and prepared. Whether you’re personally affected, supporting someone else, or simply want to understand more, this episode is packed with insight, honesty, and hope.

#HeartTransplant
#eatingdisorder
#RareCondition
#HealthJourney
#LifeChangingDiagnosis
#MentalHealth
#Vulnerability
#SelfCompassion
#PostTraumaticGrowth
#MedicalMiracle
#BBCSports
#Inspiration
#Cardiology
#Surgery
#Podcast
#Healthcare
#HeartHealth
#MedicalBreakthrough
#EmotionalJourney
#SupportSystem
#HealthcareHeroes
#PatientStories
#CardiologyCare
#MedicalJourney
#LifeLessons
#MentalWellness
#HealthAwareness
#InspirationalTalk
#LivingWithIllness
#RareDiseaseAwareness
#SharingIsCaring
#MedicalSupport
#BBCReporter
#HeartDisease
#PodcastInterview
#HealthTalk
#Empowerment
#Wellbeing
#HealthPodcast

#prostatecancer
#Aid's

#prostate

Check out our website at www.whostomanddick.com

Check out our website at www.whostomanddick.com

Send us Fan Mail

Season 3 Episode 18

Welcome back to Who’s Tom & Dick.
In this episode, Martin & Patrick sit down for a well-earned catch-up after Christmas Day — the food’s been eaten, the wrapping paper’s been cleared away, and it’s time to reflect on what has been a memorable year for the podcast.

Together, they look back on the past season, revisiting some of the standout moments and incredible guests who have joined them along the way. From laughs to serious conversations, unexpected insights to unforgettable stories, Martin & Patrick each share their top five guest picks, reflecting on why those episodes resonated and what made them special.

But it’s not all about looking back. The conversation naturally turns to the New Year, fresh energy, and what lies ahead. Martin & Patrick talk openly about their goals and targets for the remainder of Season 3 — what they want to build on, where they’d like to take the podcast next, and how they plan to keep Who’s Tom & Dick honest, entertaining, and true to its roots.

It’s a relaxed, reflective episode full of gratitude, laughter, and forward-looking optimism — the perfect bridge between the festive break and what’s still to come.

So settle in, grab a brew, and join Martin & Patrick as they close one chapter, open the next, and get ready for the rest of Season 3.

#HeartTransplant
#eatingdisorder
#RareCondition
#HealthJourney
#LifeChangingDiagnosis
#MentalHealth
#Vulnerability
#SelfCompassion
#PostTraumaticGrowth
#MedicalMiracle
#BBCSports
#Inspiration
#Cardiology
#Surgery
#Podcast
#Healthcare
#HeartHealth
#MedicalBreakthrough
#EmotionalJourney
#SupportSystem
#HealthcareHeroes
#PatientStories
#CardiologyCare
#MedicalJourney
#LifeLessons
#MentalWellness
#HealthAwareness
#InspirationalTalk
#LivingWithIllness
#RareDiseaseAwareness
#SharingIsCaring
#MedicalSupport
#BBCReporter
#HeartDisease
#PodcastInterview
#HealthTalk
#Empowerment
#Wellbeing
#HealthPodcast

#prostatecancer
#Aid's

#prostate

Check out our website at www.whostomanddick.com

Check out our website at www.whostomanddick.com