Talking a Neurosurgeon becoming a patient with Mr Henry Marsh

This week’s guest is arguably the world’s most well-known neurosurgeon, Mr Henry Marsh.
Henry is nominally retired but continues to teach, lecture, write and share his knowledge and expertise, both within the UK and in Ukraine and Nepal. Henry is an acclaimed author; his first two books, ‘Do No Harm’ and ‘Admissions: A Life in Brain Surgery’ were both Sunday Times No. 1 bestsellers. In 2020, Henry was diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer and in his most recent book ‘And Finally’ he shares his experience of transitioning from doctor to patient and reflects deeply on life and death with both humour and candour.

Show Notes

Henry is articulate, eloquent, funny and brutally honest.

During this conversation, among many things, we discuss:

 

·      Henry’s experience of transitioning from eminent neurosurgeon to cancer patient.

·      How a rational person can entertain irrational thoughts.

·      The challenges of hormone therapy for prostate cancer.

·      Finding the balance between empathy and detachment.

·      What he thinks makes a good doctor.

·      Hope – finding the balance between realism and optimism.

·      Decision making as a neurosurgeon and as a patient.

·      Failure as a doctor.

·      Henry’s relationship with running.

·      Why he believes assisted dying should be legalised and his thoughts about death.

·      Why being a doctor still can be the best job in the world.

 

Twitter: @DrHenryMarsh

What is The MOVE Against Cancer Podcast?

Welcome to the Move Against Cancer Podcast.

This podcast aspires to support and inspire people to move, exercise and live an active and fulfilling life despite a cancer diagnosis. We share the stories of ordinary people doing extraordinary things.

We know that many people are scared to stay active during cancer treatment. We know that for some, cancer can take away the hope that comes from dreaming of a future. And we know many people diagnosed with cancer feel isolated and lonely.

We hope that by sharing the stories of others finding their own way through cancer, the Move Against Cancer podcast will provide hope, support and a sense of empowerment to anyone living with or beyond cancer.

Unfortunately, cancer will affect everyone either personally or through our loved ones and so whatever position you are in we hope you will learn and be inspired by our podcast. Thank you so much for listening.