Taking Control of Cancer

Death is something that happens to us all...but we shy away from talking about it. The result is that we are not prepared for it and the process becomes more difficult for family, friends and loved-ones.

Dr Kaythyn Mannix is leading the way in this subject area, and in this emotional episode she talks to Steve about what she has experienced both as a palliative care doctor, and as a best-selling author, winning an award for her book, ‘With the end in mind .’ Steve also shares how Kathryn helped him know what to look out for in the days and hours leading up to the death of his first wife, Rachael.

Talking about death isn’t easy, but it’s one of the most important conversations we can have. In this powerful episode of Taking Control of Cancer, we explore how opening up about end-of-life matters can help cancer patients and their loved ones navigate this deeply emotional journey.

Kathryn talks about how we can better understand and prepare for death (our own or somebody else’s). From breaking taboos to offering practical guidance, she delves into the ways these honest discussions can bring clarity, connection, and even comfort during life’s most challenging moments.

Find out more about Kathryn's work at https://www.kathrynmannix.com/.

What is Taking Control of Cancer?

Welcome to Taking Control of Cancer, the podcast from the North East London Cancer Alliance. Think of us as your ‘how to’ guide when it comes to busting common cancer myths, overcoming fears and barriers, and improving cancer prevention, diagnosis, treatment and care.

This series aims to provide both patients and healthcare professionals with tangible things they can do to help when it comes to cancer. Whilst we know not all cancers are preventable, there are things we can all do that could make a positive difference to the health and wellbeing of our family, friends and colleagues.

There are two underlying themes across all episodes – the importance of early diagnosis, and reducing health inequalities.

Host:
Steve Bland is an award-winning podcaster and producer and one of the three presenters of the BBC podcast You, Me and the Big C, which was set up by his first wife - BBC presenter Rachael Bland - before her death from triple negative breast cancer in 2018.

Regular guests:
Dr Angela Wong, Chief Medical Officer, North East London Cancer Alliance:
Angela is a driving force behind improving cancer diagnostics for residents across north east London. As Chief Medical Officer for the North East London Cancer Alliance, Angela works tirelessly on delivering innovation and service improvements for cancer patients.

Femi Odewale, Managing Director, North East London Cancer Alliance:
Femi leads the programme teams from the North East London Cancer Alliance across three core areas of work: Early Diagnosis, Diagnosis and Treatment, and Personalised Care.