Bridging the Gap

More Than Meets the Eye: Understanding the Invisible Challenges of MS

In this episode we speak with Heather Russell-Kay, a dedicated advocate for individuals living with multiple sclerosis. Heather shares her deeply personal journey—from navigating the complex path to diagnosis to advocating for better understanding and support for MS patients. This conversation highlights why patient voices must guide how we approach treatment, care, and research into new drugs.

Fighting for Change: Breast Cancer Advocacy in Action

This episode features Kirstin Spencer, a patient advocate with MetUp UK and a patient expert for NICE and SMC. After her own challenging journey with breast cancer, Kirstin has dedicated her life to closing the gaps in care between primary and secondary diagnoses. From raising awareness about metastatic breast cancer to addressing systemic challenges in treatment, Kirstin brings a wealth of knowledge and an unyielding commitment to empowering others.

Screening, Symptoms, and Support: Addressing the Rise in Early-Onset Colorectal Cancer

This episode features Katell Maguet, a researcher and patient advocate dedicated to improving outcomes for colorectal cancer patients. Katell shares her journey, highlighting the gaps in care for younger patients, the importance of raising awareness about early-onset colorectal cancer, and how patient collaboration can help shape better treatment options.

Beyond Willpower: Understanding Obesity as a Chronic Condition

In this episode we explore the important and often misunderstood health challenge of obesity with Ken Clare, from Obesity UK and the Obesity Institute at Leeds Beckett University. Ken brings a unique perspective—not only as a former healthcare professional but also as someone who has personally navigated the complexities of weight management. We look at the realities of living with obesity, the stigma surrounding it, and the latest innovations in treatment, including the role of new anti-obesity medications. Plus, Ken shares his personal journey and why he believes compassionate, patient-centred care is crucial for change.

Navigating Lung Cancer: Early Detection, Treatment & Patient Empowerment

Dave Bjork is a patient advocate working in the lung cancer space. In this insightful conversation, Dave shares his personal journey, from his surprising diagnosis as a young non-smoker to becoming a voice for lung cancer patients. We explore challenges in diagnosis, disparities in care, the critical role of biomarker testing, and how patients can empower themselves in their treatment journey. Plus, Dave highlights the importance of collaboration across healthcare to address these gaps.
More about Dave's work and his podcast can be found here: https://researchevangelist.com/

Beyond Survival: Alfred Samuels on the Urgent Needs in Prostate Cancer Care

This episode features Alfred Samuels, a prostate cancer survivor turned patient advocate.  We discuss his 13-year journey since he was first diagnosed, where he brings to life not just the physical pain but the financial and emotional burden from living with cancer.  We then learn more about the pressing needs in the area of prostate cancer today, including improvements to education and better access to screening.

IBD Superheroes: Empowering and Educating People with Crohn’s and Colitis

This episode features Sahara-Fleetwood Beresford, a passionate patient advocate and healthcare consultant specializing in inflammatory bowel disease. Diagnosed with ulcerative colitis in 2007, Sahara has faced surgeries, flares, and the challenges of navigating life with a chronic illness. Now, she’s using her experiences to support others, raise awareness, and drive patient-focused improvements in healthcare. Together, we look into the complexities of IBD and how patients can find empowerment and support.

Navigating Chronic Pain: A Conversation on Fibromyalgia Advocacy

This episode features Des Quinn, Chair of Fibromyalgia Action UK, where we discuss the realities and challenges of living with fibromyalgia. In this conversation, Des sheds light on what fibromyalgia truly is, the difficulties people face in getting a diagnosis, and the daily impact of this often invisible condition. We also explore the ongoing work to improve resources and support for those affected.

Silent Epidemic: Unveiling the Challenges of Hepatitis B & Delta

In this episode we explore the ongoing efforts to address hepatitis B and D with Beatrice Zovich from the Hepatitis B Foundation, a global organization focused on advocacy, research, and support for people affected by these viruses. In this conversation, we look at challenges in diagnosis, the stigma many patients face, and the Foundation’s work to increase awareness and improve policy. Whether you're a healthcare provider, a patient, or simply interested in public health, we hope you'll find this discussion insightful.

Breaking Stigma: Advancing HIV Awareness and Care

This episode features Robbie Currie and Angelina Namiba from the National AIDS Trust. They discuss the organization’s mission to fight HIV-related stigma, improve access to treatment, and uphold the rights of people living with HIV. Robbie and Angelina explore how far treatment has come, the barriers still faced by marginalized communities, and the importance of raising awareness to eliminate stigma. They also highlight the urgent need for education and support to ensure equitable access to care for all.  We hope you enjoy this fascinating conversation.