AfterThoughts

The Teenage Years Thoughtcasts: Difficult Conversations

Wed, 6 Sep 2023 07:00:00 +0000

AfterThoughts was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

We're back to bring you some extra special episodes to say ta'ra to Series Six - our Thoughtcasts. Bitesized episodes exploring three themes that some of our storytellers touched on. We're kicking off by looking at difficult conversations, something Yami, Maddie and Poppy all talked about in their episodes. Yami chats about talking with her boyfriend about being ill, Maddie talks about writing a will, and Poppy discusses conversations about having kids.

For more advice on these topics, check out these resources:

Relationships After Cancer Treatment

Planning for the end of your life

Write your will online

Fertility & Cancer

_______________________________________________________________

AfterThoughts is hosted by Aiden Grant and Shaumya Kularajan

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

AfterThoughts : The Teenage Years is supported by Teenage Cancer Trust. Teenage Cancer Trust support those diagnosed with cancer when they're 13-24 and provide specialised nursing care and support to get them through treatment.

As ever, AfterThoughts deals with some conversations you may find tricky to listen to. If you need any further support, please don't hesitate to reach out to a friend, or find support from any of the brilliant charities online.

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas and Dinah Mullen.

The Teenage Years Thoughtcasts: Hair Loss

Wed, 6 Sep 2023 07:00:00 +0000

AfterThoughts was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

For more advice on hairloss, check out these resources:

My afro was my pride and joy

I didn't let weight gain or hair loss after chemo define me

Body image & cancer

_______________________________________________________________

AfterThoughts is hosted by Aiden Grant and Shaumya Kularajan

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas and Dinah Mullen.

The Teenage Years Thoughtcasts: Mental Health

Wed, 6 Sep 2023 07:00:00 +0000

AfterThoughts was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

We're back to bring you some extra special episodes to say ta'ra to Series Six - our Thoughtcasts. Bitesized episodes exploring three themes that some of our storytellers touched on. We often hear how going through cancer leaves us focusing on our physical health - but we forget about the other, just as important part of our health, the mental and emotional side of things. This Thoughtcast shines a light on that.

For more advice on this, check out these resources:

How cancer can affect mental health in young people

How to ask for help if cancer is affecting your mental health

5 ways to look after your mental health during cancer

Cancer and mental health information

Not OK - A Mental Health Campaign

_______________________________________________________________

AfterThoughts is hosted by Aiden Grant and Shaumya Kularajan

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas and Dinah Mullen.

The Teenage Years: Wrap Up

Wed, 30 Aug 2023 07:00:00 +0000

AfterThoughts was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

THE WHOLE GANG IS BACK TOGETHER. Join Aiden, Shaumya AND Toby and Alice as we take a look back over some of our favourite stories from this series.

We take it theme by theme and try to agree on the best bits. It ain't always easy, but we get there in the end. And what a series it's been. We've talked about long term impacts, feeling psychic, chicken nuggets, getting back to work, the mental health impacts, cancer with a newborn, navigating fatigue, writing a will, the power of words, facing your fears and having the best job in the world and tonnes more. And we've done it all with our new hosts Aiden and Shaumya.

If you haven't listened to each of the full episodes yet, you definitely should. You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll feel...dare we say it...inspired...and you'll feel less alone.

Thanks to our amazing storytellers for showing up for AfterThoughts. We couldn't do it without them.

_______________________________________________________________

AfterThoughts is hosted by Aiden Grant and Shaumya Kularajan

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas and Dinah Mullen.

The Teenage Years: Amber - Cancer Connections, BC and AC and Long Term Impacts

Wed, 16 Aug 2023 07:00:00 +0000

AfterThoughts: The Teenage Years was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

For the final episode of the series, we're joined by Amber. Amber's from Ballymena in Northern Ireland, meaning we've ticked off England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales with this series. Feels like a pretty cool achievement.

BUT ENOUGH ABOUT US. This is about Amber. She was diagnosed with a neuroendocrine tumour (which she initially thought was a hangover) when she was 19 and was only the third person in Northern Ireland to be diagnosed with her tumour. We chatted about the support she got from her incredible Teenage Cancer Trust nurse, Carrie, using the cancer card and how being diagnosed with cancer at a young age changed her outlook on life.

_______________________________________________________________

AfterThoughts is hosted by Aiden Grant and Shaumya Kularajan

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas and Dinah Mullen.

The Teenage Years: Yami - Angel Lights, Feeling Psychic and Chicken Nuggets

Wed, 9 Aug 2023 07:00:00 +0000

AfterThoughts: The Teenage Years was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

For Episode six, we're joined by the brilliant Yami (aka Yamikani). Yami was diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma when she was 18 and underwent chemotherapy, radiotherapy a stem cell transplant and was part of a clinical trial. Yami tells us about her "Angel light" mum, her youthful looking dad who was mistaken for her boyfriend (more than once!), a delivery of plain rice and chicken nuggets and losing her beloved afro.

_______________________________________________________________

AfterThoughts is hosted by Aiden Grant and Shaumya Kularajan

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas and Dinah Mullen.

The Teenage Years: Connor - Getting Back to Work, Panic Attacks and Family Ties

Wed, 2 Aug 2023 07:45:36 +0000

AfterThoughts: The Teenage Years was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

Erm. Can we talk about the fact it's EPISODE FIVE already?! This series is FLYING BY! We're joined by Connor for this episode, who was diagnosed with testicular cancer which had spread to his lungs. He was 18. He tells us stories of building up his strength and changing his path after cancer treatment, going through it all when his Grandad was having treatment for bowel cancer at the same time (and playing Cancer Top Trumps together), and much much more.

_______________________________________________________________

AfterThoughts is hosted by Aiden Grant and Shaumya Kularajan

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas and Dinah Mullen.

The Teenage Years: Poppy - Cancer with a newborn, Navigating Fatigue and Finding Hope

Wed, 26 Jul 2023 07:00:00 +0000

AfterThoughts: The Teenage Years was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

For episode four, we're joined by Poppy for her incredible stories of being diagnosed with Ewing's Sarcoma when she was 23. Not only is being diagnosed with cancer at 23 rare, Poppy was pregnant at the time. Her daughter, Bella (who she calls her boss) was born two days after her diagnosis, six weeks early. She spent over 130 nights away from her daughter in her first year of being alive due to cancer treatment.

Poppy tells us about her post-birth baby shower before treatment began, trying not to be the girl who has cancer, finding Mummy's Star (a charity specifically for those who experience cancer around pregnancy) and being a team with her mum, her partner Tom and Bella.

_______________________________________________________________

AfterThoughts is hosted by Aiden Grant and Shaumya Kularajan

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas and Dinah Mullen.

The Teenage Years: Maddie - Knowing Who to Tell, Writing a Will and Ending Poo Shaming

Wed, 19 Jul 2023 07:00:00 +0000

AfterThoughts: The Teenage Years was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

Joining us for Episode Three is the brill Maddie. Maddie was diagnosed with Alveolar soft part sarcoma when she was 18. Shortly after she had primary tumour removed from her left shoulder, it was discovered the cancer had spread to her lungs. While her disease is currently stable, it is incurable and Maddie will be on treatment for life.

She joined us to tell her stories about dealing with stomach side-effects at Swiftogeddon (don't let the poo shamers win!), how writing a will can be empowering and how she became more confident talking openly about her cancer over time.

_______________________________________________________________

AfterThoughts is hosted by Aiden Grant and Shaumya Kularajan

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas and Dinah Mullen.

The Teenage Years: Lauren - Crying About It Later, Prank Royalty and The Power of Words

Wed, 12 Jul 2023 07:00:00 +0000

AfterThoughts: The Teenage Years was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

It's episode two! Aiden and Shaumya are back and this time they're joined by Lauren. Lauren was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia when she was 22. She chats seizing the moment and going clubbing with her pals before treatment began, meeting people on the TCT ward and how words have helped her heal - during treatment and beyond.

_______________________________________________________________

AfterThoughts is hosted by Aiden Grant and Shaumya Kularajan

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas and Dinah Mullen.

The Teenage Years: Jak - Facing Fears, The Best Job In the World and Being the Odd One Out

Wed, 5 Jul 2023 07:00:00 +0000

AfterThoughts: The Teenage Years was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

WELCOME BACK to AfterThoughts: The Teenage Years and the VERY FIRST EPISODE of Season Six. The first with brand new hosts Aiden and Shaumya. And kicking off the series, we're joined by Jak.

Diagnosed with melanoma when he was 21, Jak joins us to chat about his best friend Carly, moments during in treatment of wishing himself back to normal and surviving 100% of the days you didn't think you were going to. We're so bloody glad to be back and we're so thrilled to be back with Jak.

_______________________________________________________________

AfterThoughts is hosted by Aiden Grant and Shaumya Kularajan

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas and Dinah Mullen.

AfterThoughts: The Teenage Years - Time for Change

Wed, 31 May 2023 09:09:01 +0000

AfterThoughts: The Teenage Years was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

We'll be back for another series very soon. But there are some changes afoot. And we wanted to share them with you before the new series begins.

Because if you hadn't noticed, Toby and Alice aren't teenagers anymore...

10000 Downloads - A Celebration

Wed, 11 Jan 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Alright. We know in the grand scheme of podcasts, 10,000 downloads isn't that many. But for a niche podcast of stories about cancer, created by two people who just want to do their bit to change some of the narratives, it felt like something worth celebrating. Let's face it, we don't need an excuse to celebrate.

So we got in touch with all of our previous podcast guests to reflect on where they were and take stock of where they're going. And the result is pretty special.

Like what you hear? Rate us on whatever platform you use to listen, or leave us a review. We'd LOVE to hear from you.

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

As ever, AfterThoughts deals with some conversations you may find tricky to listen to. If you need any further support, please don't hesitate to get in touch with our friends at Trekstock or find peer support on the Alike app.

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas and Dinah Mullen

AfterThoughts: Connection

afterthoughtscast@gmail.com (Toby Peach & Alice-May Purkiss) — Mon, 26 Sep 2022 07:30:00 +0000

AfterThoughts was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

For our final shortcast, and thus our very last episode of Series Five, we're looking at connection. Because if there's something that's come out of every chat we've ever had on AfterThoughts, it's just how important it is to connect with other human beings when you're in the throes of cancer. Whether they're people you've known your entire life who show up for you, people you meet in treatment or a person you meet five years down the line who you end up starting a podcast with, those connections are vital. It's the fuel that powers our friends at Alike and it's what makes being part of the cancer club so much less SH!T.

Krista tells us about meeting her friend Jen, Jay talks about their siblings and Reielle talks about meeting people with her rare cancer online.

For more information about connection and cancer, head to:

Our friends at Alike who are powered by friendship

Friendship and Cancer - Refinery 29

Friendship and Cancer - Trekstock

Supporting someone with cancer - CRUK

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

AfterThoughts is supported by Trekstock and Alike. Trekstock gets young adults moving again, physically, emotionally, socially and psychologically, after cancer has stopped them in their tracks. Alike is a game-changing peer support platform because living with cancer can be lonely. Speak to others who have been there, done that, and worn the unflattering hospital gown.

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas and Dinah Mullen

AfterThoughts: Intimacy & Cancer

afterthoughtscast@gmail.com (Toby Peach & Alice-May Purkiss) — Fri, 23 Sep 2022 07:30:00 +0000

AfterThoughts was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

It's another shortcast and we're looking at some of the most intimate stories there are. Sex and cancer. And you can't talk about sex and cancer without talking about fertility and cancer. Krista, Nat, Reielle and Jay share their stories about sex, fertility, relationships and so much more.

For more information about intimacy and cancer, check out:

Sex and Cancer - Trekstock

LGBTQ+ Sex and Cancer - Trekstock & Live Through This

Live Through This

Sex with Cancer

Fertility and Chemotherapy - CRUK

Fertility in women - Macmillan

Fertility in men - Macmillan

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas and Dinah Mullen

AfterThoughts - Exercise

afterthoughtscast@gmail.com (Toby Peach & Alice-May Purkiss) — Tue, 20 Sep 2022 07:30:00 +0000

AfterThoughts was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

We're back to bring you some extra special episodes to say ta'ra to Series Five - our Shortcasts. Bitesized episodes exploring three themes that some of our storytellers touched on. To mark #NationalFitnessDay on 21st September, we're kicking off by looking at exercise, something Sukhy, Sean and Jake all talked about in their episodes. Sukhy chats about running, Jake talks about training to become a paratriathlete (cool), and Sean discusses going from being a PT, to a cancer patient, and back again.

For more advice on exercising with and beyond cancer, check out these resources.

RENEW - Trekstock

Sean's Story on Trekstock's website

Breaking down some of the barriers to exercise

Exercise guidelines for cancer patients - CRUK

Exercise & Cancer - Maggies

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas and Dinah Mullen

Series Five: Wrap Up

afterthoughtscast@gmail.com (Toby Peach & Alice-May Purkiss) — Wed, 7 Sep 2022 07:30:00 +0000

AfterThoughts was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

As ever, we like to end a series by taking a look back over some of our favourite stories from the series. We take it theme by theme and try to agree on the best bits. It ain't always easy, but we get there in the end. And what a series it's been. We've talked about sex, leg funerals, stomas, body image, raising tiny humans, 'dumping out', survivors responsibility, having a rare cancer, feeling held back, pre-empting chaos and so, so, so much more.

If you haven't listened to each of the full episodes yet, you definitely should. You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll feel...dare we say it...inspired...and you'll feel less alone.

Thanks to our amazing storytellers for showing up for AfterThoughts. We couldn't do it without them. Reielle, Jay, Krista, Jake, Sukhy, Sean, Natalie. You're our Series Five superstars.

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas and Dinah Mullen

Natalie: Proposals, Invisible Illnesses and Sex and Intimacy

afterthoughtscast@gmail.com (Toby Peach & Alice-May Purkiss) — Wed, 31 Aug 2022 07:30:00 +0000

AfterThoughts was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

Well. We've made it. It's the very last storyteller of the series. But you know we'll be back for our usual wrap up and all that other business in due course. Before that though - we've got Natalie for you. Diagnosed with Stage 4 bowel cancer aged 36, Nat's had quite the cancer ride. She had a pelvic exenteration as part of her treatment (meaning surgeons removed her ovaries, fallopian tubes, womb, cervix, vagina, rectum, anus, a section of her spine and took some bone from her left pelvic sidewall, amongst other bits and pieces). She had to learn to walk again and also lives with a stoma.

She joins us to chat about going from being a dancer and using her body as her tool and having to surrender to her cancer treatment, what she learned from her mum's cancer diagnosis and how that prepped her for her own and why we all need to be talking about cancer and sex more. It is, in our opinion, another unmissable episode.

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas and Dinah Mullen

Sean: Navigating Finances, Body Image and Giving the Need to Knows

afterthoughtscast@gmail.com (Toby Peach & Alice-May Purkiss) — Wed, 24 Aug 2022 07:30:00 +0000

AfterThoughts was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

Our storyteller for episode SIX (!!) of series five is Sean. Diagnosed with Stage 4 Hodgkins Lymphoma in 2016, Sean went from being a self employed personal trainer (not personal trainer trainer) to a cancer patient in the space of just a few words. He tells us about navigating the benefits system as a result, chats about how everything always seems to be lumped back to cancer, even when it's unrelated and what it's like going from being a weightlifter to someone with excruciating pain and unable to exercise at all.

Just a note to say, Sean does talk about suicidal ideation in our Invisible Impacts section, so do skip over this section if you don't feel up to hearing this.

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas and Dinah Mullen

Sukhy: Running, Returning to Work, Cancer and Tiny Humans

afterthoughtscast@gmail.com (Toby Peach & Alice-May Purkiss) — Thu, 18 Aug 2022 07:55:09 +0000

AfterThoughts was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

For this episode, we're joined by the brill Sukhy. Sukhy was diagnosed with breast cancer when she was 37. She joins us to talk about being a single mum and going through cancer during Covid (FUN), breaking down taboos around mental health and illness and navigating going back to work (or not - as the case may be) after a cancer diagnosis.

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas and Dinah Mullen

Jake: Leg funerals, Paratriathletes and Controlling Your Own Narrative

afterthoughtscast@gmail.com (Toby Peach & Alice-May Purkiss) — Wed, 10 Aug 2022 08:25:12 +0000

AfterThoughts was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

For episode four of AfterThoughts, Series Five, our storyteller is Jake. We didn't intend to have two people diagnosed with osteosarcoma back to back, that's just how it happened. But it's pretty interesting to hear these two stories alongside each other. Jake joins us to talk about saying goodbye to his leg with an incredibly unique leg funeral, going through treatment during COVID-19, looking like (his words, not ours) 'a big fleshy moon' and training to be a paratriathlete. He's also a swimmer and a fellow Northerner so he and Alice got on like a house on fire.

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas and Dinah Mullen

Krista: Connection, Being Both Doctor & Patient and 'Dumping Outwards'

afterthoughtscast@gmail.com (Toby Peach & Alice-May Purkiss) — Wed, 27 Jul 2022 07:30:00 +0000

AfterThoughts was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

For episode three of AfterThoughts, Series Five, we're joined by Dr Krista. Krista was diagnosed with Osteosarcoma in one of the wildest diagnosis stories we've ever heard (it involves Wimbledon tickets and being abroad but we'll say no more than that). Although initially she received the coveted status of NED (no evidence of disease), in 2020 she was diagnosed as Stage 4, meaning she will continue to live with cancer. But that hasn't stopped her living one little bit.

We chat what it's like to be a doctor who's had cancer and how that's helped her hone her superpowers, the fantastic model of 'dumping out' when you need someone to talk to and the huge value of community. She's another wise one and her experience is full of joy and optimism.

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas and Dinah Mullen

Jay - Body Image, Survivor's Responsibility and Preempting Chaos

afterthoughtscast@gmail.com (Toby Peach & Alice-May Purkiss) — Wed, 20 Jul 2022 07:30:00 +0000

AfterThoughts was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

In this episode, we're joined by the wise and wonderful Jay (they/them) who Zoomed in all the way from Pisa in Italy. Jay was diagnosed with Hodgkins Lymphoma and relapsed a few years after their first lot of treatment. They told us "I like cancer like I like my men. Treating me like shit and coming back when I've just got over them".

We chat being Queer in the most hetero of spaces (the fertility clinic), learning not to take responsibility for everyone else's experiences (tricky but essential for survival) and navigating what relapse means when you've just superglued your life back together. Jay is insightful and witty and just an all round babe.

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas and Dinah Mullen

Reielle - Rare Cancer, Comedy Siblings and Feeling Held Back

afterthoughtscast@gmail.com (Toby Peach & Alice-May Purkiss) — Wed, 13 Jul 2022 07:30:00 +0000

AfterThoughts was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

We're back! Can you believe it? We're back for another series of AfterThoughts and we're making our return with the brilliant Reielle. Reielle was diagnosed with Stage IV adrenal cortical carcinoma in her 20s. We chat about finding connection, the opportunities that cancer can afford you and the physical adjustments we have to make in the wake of a cancer diagnosis. All featuring a puppy that really wanted to be part of the convo and seemed intent on letting us know she was there.

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas and Dinah Mullen

We're Back

afterthoughtscast@gmail.com (Toby Peach & Alice-May Purkiss) — Fri, 8 Jul 2022 07:25:27 +0000

Would you believe it, it's Series Five (!) and we're back with more stories of what it's like to be diagnosed with cancer in your 20s or 30s. And what an incredible lineup of storytellers we've got for you.

Episode one of Series Five - coming Wednesday. Don't miss it.

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

AfterThoughts is supported by Trekstock. Trekstock gets young adults moving again, physically, emotionally, socially and psychologically, after cancer has stopped them in their tracks.

As ever, AfterThoughts deals with some conversations you may find tricky to listen to. If you need any further support, please don't hesitate to get in touch with our friends at Trekstock.

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas and Dinah Mullen.

AfterThoughts: The Teenage Years - Friendship

afterthoughtscast@gmail.com (Toby Peach, Alice-May Purkiss) — Wed, 23 Feb 2022 08:00:00 +0000

AfterThoughts: The Teenage Years was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

We're back to bring you some extra special episodes to put Series Four to bed - our Shortcasts. Bitesized episodes exploring three themes that some of our storytellers touched on throughout the series. Today we're looking at friendship. If dating's a wily beast, friendship can be just as tricky to navigate and equally as difficult to grasp hold of - especially when you're in you're teens or early twenties. For our storytellers on The Teenage Years, it's something we talk about a lot even if it never makes it into the podcast, so we wanted to share some stories and maybe impart a bit of the wisdom we've learned over the years.

For more advice and support on friendship and cancer, check out these resources:

Friendship and cancer

How cancer can affect your relationships

Young person's guide to cancer

My friend has cancer

Lifting the lid on friendship and cancer - Trekstock

8 ways to support a friend with cancer - Trekstock

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas and Dinah Mullen.

AfterThoughts: The Teenage Years - Fertility

afterthoughtscast@gmail.com (Toby Peach, Alice-May Purkiss) — Wed, 16 Feb 2022 08:06:58 +0000

AfterThoughts: The Teenage Years was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

For most young people, being forced to think about their fertility when they can't even decide what to have for dinner (Alice) is a huge shock. They find themselves having very grown up conversations when they don't feel prepared and the impacts of this can be hugely far reaching. So check in with our storytellers for their experiences and hear from Toby and Alice for some insight into their experiences and the things they've learned since their own diagnoses.

For more advice and support on cancer and fertility, check out these resources:

Fertility
How cancer treatment can affect fertility
Young person's guide to cancer
Fertility - TYAC
Fertility signposting - Trekstock

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas and Dinah Mullen.

AfterThoughts: The Teenage Years - Dating

afterthoughtscast@gmail.com (Toby Peach, Alice-May Purkiss) — Wed, 9 Feb 2022 09:36:08 +0000

AfterThoughts: The Teenage Years was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

Get an insight into what relationships are like for those who've been diagnosed with cancer and, if you're looking for support, Toby and Alice offer their advice on navigating the wild waters of life after cancer.

For more advice and support on dating and cancer, check out these resources:

Young person's guide to cancer

How cancer can affect your relationships

Relationships after cancer

Support for LGBTQ+ people

Cancer, LGBT relationships, identity and fertility

My girlfriend has cancer

My boyfriend has cancer

Dating after cancer with Olivia, Rosa and Emma - Trekstock and Cancer Chicks

Sex and Cancer - Trekstock

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas and Dinah Mullen.

AfterThoughts: The Teenage Years - Wrap Up

afterthoughtscast@gmail.com (Toby Peach, Alice-May Purkiss) — Wed, 5 Jan 2022 08:32:24 +0000

AfterThoughts was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

This time, Toby and Alice look back over series four to pull out some of their favourite stories from each of the storytellers on each of our themes. They managed to agree on the best bits of what has been a remarkable series. AfterThoughts: The Teenage Years is always special and Series Four has been full of incredible tales from some brilliant storytellers, and if you haven't listened to each of the full episodes yet, you definitely should. You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll feel...dare we say it...inspired...and you'll feel less alone.

Thanks to our amazing storytellers for making this series everything it is: Natalie, Aiden, Freddie, Shaumya, Kaleb, Tegan and Phoebe - you're legends.

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas and Dinah Mullen.

The Teenage Years: Phoebe - Cancer and Covid, Maturity and Hazards in the Tudor Home

afterthoughtscast@gmail.com (Toby Peach, Alice-May Purkiss) — Wed, 22 Dec 2021 08:30:00 +0000

AfterThoughts: The Teenage Years was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

Phoebe is the youngest storyteller we've ever had on AfterThoughts and she brings with her a brilliantly unique perspective. Diagnosed with osteosarcoma when she was 13, she joined us to talk about going through cancer treatment at the very start of the Covid-19 pandemic, how her missed diagnosis affected her in a non-medical way and the impact of her diagnosis on her younger sister.

Phoebe's episode is an unmissable end to a phenomenal series of incredible storytellers on AfterThoughts: The Teenage Years.

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas and Dinah Mullen.

The Teenage Years: Tegan - Post Treatment Care, Making Sh*t Happen and The Power of Storytelling

afterthoughtscast@gmail.com (Alice-May Purkiss, Toby Peach) — Wed, 15 Dec 2021 08:30:00 +0000

AfterThoughts: The Teenage Years was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

For the penultimate episode of Series Four of AfterThoughts, we're joined by Tegan. She might have got in from work at a ridiculous hour of the morning but Tegan brought the energy to the podcast to tell us the stories that came from her diagnosis of Non-hodgkins Lymphoma. She was diagnosed with NHL at 18 and came on AfterThoughts to talk about her Wicked Step Mum, the sink or swim feeling of waiting for results and the importance of making a difference to the futures of young adults facing cancer.

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas and Dinah Mullen.

The Teenage Years: Kaleb - Christmas on Treatment, Playing the Cancer Card and Entering Your Mind Palace

afterthoughtscast@gmail.com (Toby Peach, Alice-May Purkiss) — Wed, 8 Dec 2021 08:00:00 +0000

AfterThoughts: The Teenage Years was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

We're back for episode FIVE! And we're joined by Kaleb. Kaleb was diagnosed with a pilositic astrocytoma (bless you) aka a brain tumour when he was 14, and experienced tumour regrowth when he was 19. Although we don't ordinarily talk about diagnosis on AfterThoughts, we do reference it in this episode, so we'll let you know Kaleb was diagnosed after a brain haemorrhage saw him collapse at the end of a school mountain climbing expedition in Morocco.

He joined us to chat about the trauma of a cancer diagnosis (and recognising it as such), the relief that came with managing to squeeze in a few days at home in the midst of his proton beam therapy and the difference between acknowledgement of his experience, rather than acceptance.

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas and Dinah Mullen.

The Teenage Years: Shaumya - Medicine After Cancer, Opportunities, Meeting Your Idol

afterthoughtscast@gmail.com (Toby Peach, Alice-May Purkiss) — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 08:00:00 +0000

AfterThoughts: The Teenage Years was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

Episode four! Already! We're over half way through this series. Would you BELIEVE! But this week's episode is with another phenomenal storyteller. And another storyteller who decided to go into medicine after having cancer. What a legend. This week we're joined by Shaumya. Shaumya was diagnosed with Stage 4 Hodgkin's Lymphoma when she was 18. Shauumya joined us to talk about the unconditional, relentless loving care her parents gave her, facing Cancer Week at uni directly after speaking to us, meeting your cancer icons (who knew they were a thing 'til you get cancer, right?!) and getting fertility treatment as a single person who barely feels adult enough to make the decisions they're being asked to.

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas and Dinah Mullen.

The Teenage Years: Freddie - Losing Friends, Patient Advocacy and Clinical Trials

Wed, 17 Nov 2021 08:00:00 +0000

AfterThoughts: The Teenage Years was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

We're here for episode three, and we're joined by Freddie, who was diagnosed with neuroblastoma when he was 16. Neuroblastoma is typically seen in babies and toddlers, so Freddie found himself even more stuck between the phases of childhood and adulthood than most teenage cancer patients do. He joined us to chat about losing old friends and making new ones, the importance of advocating for yourself and getting so close to his mum he could recognise her footsteps in the hallway. It's a goosepimple raiser, that's for sure.

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas and Dinah Mullen.

The Teenage Years: Aiden - Body Image, Fertility and Diagnosing Yourself (Successfully)

afterthoughtscast@gmail.com (Toby Peach) — Wed, 10 Nov 2021 08:00:00 +0000

AfterThoughts: The Teenage Years was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

It's episode two of Series Four and we're joined by another incredible storyteller.

Aiden was diagnosed with Hodgkins Lymphoma at 18. He joined us to chat about toxic positivity and its long-term impact on your mental health, the impact of his hair loss on his self-confidence (something we don't talk about enough when it comes to guys!) and his completely remarkable story of being a pre-med student and successfully diagnosing himself with cancer. How many other people can say they've done that? You do NOT want to miss hearing Aiden tell this tale.

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas and Dinah Mullen.

The Teenage Years: Natalie - Navigating fatigue, facing your mortality and dealing with dating

afterthoughtscast@gmail.com (Toby Peach, Alice-May Purkiss) — Wed, 3 Nov 2021 08:00:00 +0000

AfterThoughts: The Teenage Years was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

Would you believe it! We're back for Series four and another series of The Teenage Years. We're absolutely bloomin' delighted about it too.

Our first storyteller Natalie was diagnosed with follicular and papillary thyroid cancer at the age of 17. She joins us to talk about making phone calls to tell people you've got cancer, writing letters for loved ones in case you die (and then realising that maybe the things you wrote were a bit cringe) and being on Tinder as a cancer survivor with visible scars.

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas and Dinah Mullen.

Series 3 Wrap Up - Best Bits

afterthoughtscast@gmail.com (toby peach, alice-may purkiss) — Wed, 29 Sep 2021 07:56:47 +0000

AfterThoughts was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

This time, Toby and Alice dip back in to season three to pull out some of their favourite stories from each of the storytellers on each of our themes. As ever, picking out the best bits is a CHALLENGE. This series has been full of incredible tales from some brilliant storytellers, and if you haven't listened to their episodes yet, you definitely should. You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll feel less alone.

Thanks to our amazing storytellers for making this series everything it is: Charlotte Crowl, Lauren Mahon, Karen Hobbs, Miranda Ashitey, Luke Grenfell-Shaw, Philippa Kaye and Ryan Brovin

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

AfterThoughts is supported by Trekstock. Trekstock gets young adults moving again, physically, emotionally, socially and psychologically, after cancer has stopped them in their tracks.

As ever, AfterThoughts deals with some conversations you may find tricky to listen to. If you need any further support, please don't hesitate to get in touch with our friends at Trekstock.

Ryan Brovin - Lost time, appreciating the rain and catheter farts

afterthoughtscast@gmail.com (Alice-May Purkiss, Toby Peach) — Wed, 22 Sep 2021 07:00:00 +0000

AfterThoughts was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

Once again, we’ve made it to the end of another series of AfterThoughts and while we won’t say we’ve saved the best til last (because how could we when we’ve had such a great series of storytellers), you’re certainly in for a treat today. In this, the final episode of Series 3, we are joined by the inimitable Ryan Brovin - the second northern Ryan we’ve been lucky enough to have on AfterThoughts. Ryan was diagnosed with a brain tumour when he was 21. He joined us to talk about playing catch up with your peers after treatment, leaving your brother at the airport for the trip of a lifetime and then heading straight off to w*nk in a cup for fertility preservation (only in cancer life) and not needing cancer to remind us life is precious.

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

AfterThoughts is supported by Trekstock. Trekstock gets young adults moving again, physically, emotionally, socially and psychologically, after cancer has stopped them in their tracks.

As ever, AfterThoughts deals with some conversations you may find tricky to listen to. If you need any further support, please don't hesitate to get in touch with our friends at Trekstock.

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas.

Philippa Kaye - Doing Hard Things, Honesty, fear and Doctors Get (bowel) Cancer Too

afterthoughtscast@gmail.com (Alice-May Purkiss, Philippa Kaye, Toby Peach) — Wed, 15 Sep 2021 09:12:37 +0000

AfterThoughts was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

When you’ve spent your life working to care for others, what’s it like when you suddenly find yourself on the receiving end of the care? When you’ve spent your career advocating for other people’s health, and your own suddenly hangs in the balance? Well in 2019, Dr Philippa Kaye faced those realities when she was diagnosed with bowel cancer. She said she saw the cancer on the screen herself during a colonoscopy. She joins us to chat cancer sucker punches (you know, the ones that side swipe you and knock the wind from your lungs), navigating cancer as a mum and learning that you’re fireproof.

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

This episode of AfterThoughts was created in partnership with Life Effects by Teva - an initiative shaped by patients, for patients, to help those with chronic illness live better days. Find out more and read articles written by those living with and beyond cancer at lifeeffects.teva

AfterThoughts is supported by Trekstock. Trekstock gets young adults moving again, physically, emotionally, socially and psychologically, after cancer has stopped them in their tracks.

As ever, AfterThoughts deals with some conversations you may find tricky to listen to. If you need any further support, please don't hesitate to get in touch with our friends at Trekstock.

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas and Dinah Mullen.

Miranda Ashitey - Bladerunner, a Royal garden party and Stage IV Breast Cancer

afterthoughtscast@gmail.com (Toby Peach, Alice-May Purkiss) — Wed, 8 Sep 2021 07:00:00 +0000

AfterThoughts was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

We’re almost half way through another series and today’s storyteller is the brilliant and funny Miranda. Miranda was diagnosed with primary breast cancer in August 2014. In August 2019, she was re-diagnosed with secondary breast cancer - breast cancer that had spread to other parts of her body and become incurable. Miranda joined us to chat about the information overload that happens at diagnosis, using the cancer card when it works for ya (i.e when it means you get to meet Jon Hamm) and how important representation is as a queer Black woman. She told us she might be fuzzy having just had her second Covid jab, but we’re pretty sure you’ll agree she was nothing but an absolute delight.

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

AfterThoughts is supported by Trekstock. Trekstock gets young adults moving again, physically, emotionally, socially and psychologically, after cancer has stopped them in their tracks.

As ever, AfterThoughts deals with some conversations you may find tricky to listen to. If you need any further support, please don't hesitate to get in touch with our friends at Trekstock.

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas and Dinah Mullen.

Luke Grenfell-Shaw - Bristol to Beijing, “More than Nothing” and Stage Four Sarcoma

afterthoughtscast@gmail.com (Toby Peach, Alice-May Purkiss) — Wed, 25 Aug 2021 06:00:00 +0000

AfterThoughts was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

Hello Baku, it’s London calling! No, despite Alice’s occasional propensity for bursting into song, we’re not entering Eurovision, but for this episode we’re joined all the way from Azerbaijan by Luke Grenfell-Shaw. Luke is currently cycling from Bristol to Beijing (yes, actually. It’s a really long way!) and joined us to talk about his experience of being diagnosed with Stage 4 Sarcoma when he was 24 years old in 2018. At the time of recording, he reckoned he was about 10,000km into his journey and had about 20,000km to go, but was focusing much more on the journey, rather than the destination. We chat about finding fulfillment, exercising through treatment in a way that works for you, facing your mortality head on and the power of a really bloomin’ good sunset.

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

AfterThoughts is supported by Trekstock. Trekstock gets young adults moving again, physically, emotionally, socially and psychologically, after cancer has stopped them in their tracks.

As ever, AfterThoughts deals with some conversations you may find tricky to listen to. If you need any further support, please don't hesitate to get in touch with our friends at Trekstock.

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas.

Karen Hobbs - Comedy, Celine Dion and Cervical Cancer

afterthoughtscast@gmail.com (Alice-May Purkiss, Toby Peach) — Wed, 18 Aug 2021 06:00:00 +0000

AfterThoughts was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

There are not many people in the world who can make cancer actually, genuinely funny, but Karen Hobbs does it. Being diagnosed with cervical cancer when you're 24 is far from a lol-fest, but Karen took those mutated lemons and turned them into lemonade. If you don't know Karen, she's generous, brilliant and she cares a lot about cancer education. She will also make you laugh. A lot. She joined Toby and Alice to chat about a cancer diagnosis that comes out of nowhere, the responsibility of surviving and having cancer as a secret weapon to get through anything difficult that comes your way.

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

Find Karen on Instagram.

AfterThoughts is supported by Trekstock. Trekstock gets young adults moving again, physically, emotionally, socially and psychologically, after cancer has stopped them in their tracks.

As ever, AfterThoughts deals with some conversations you may find tricky to listen to. If you need any further support, please don't hesitate to get in touch with our friends at Trekstock.

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas and Dinah Mullen.

Lauren Mahon - Family, chemo brain and breast cancer

afterthoughtscast@gmail.com (Toby Peach, Alice-May Purkiss) — Wed, 11 Aug 2021 06:00:00 +0000

AfterThoughts was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

You might know her as Lauren Mahon, founder of Girl vs Cancer, host of You, Me and the Big C, Trekstock Young Adult Ambassador, cancer gamechanger and all round legend. To us, she's all those things, but she's also just our Lozza. We've known Lauren for a couple of years now, and we were chuffed sideways when she said she would be happy to join us for Episode 2 of the new season of AfterThoughts to share her stories with her trademark candour, wit and tenderness. She joined us to chat about the impact her breast cancer diagnosis had on her family, how the cancer label stays long after treatment finishes, no matter what you do to shake it and how the curveball of a diagnosis changes everything - and not always for the worst.

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

Find Lauren on Instagram and follow GirlvsCancer on Instagram. Listen to You, Me and the Big C

AfterThoughts is supported by Trekstock. Trekstock gets young adults moving again, physically, emotionally, socially and psychologically, after cancer has stopped them in their tracks.

As ever, AfterThoughts deals with some conversations you may find tricky to listen to. If you need any further support, please don't hesitate to get in touch with our friends at Trekstock.

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas and Dinah Mullen.

Charlotte Crowl - lymphoblastic lymphoma, determination and infectious optimism

afterthoughtscast@gmail.com (Alice-May Purkiss, toby peach) — Wed, 4 Aug 2021 06:00:00 +0000

AfterThoughts was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

WE’RE BACK WITH A BANG for another series of AfterThoughts and to kickstart the series we’re joined by the brilliant Charlotte Crowl. Charlotte was diagnosed with lymphoblastic lymphoma when she was 17. We chat about maturing beyond your years, navigating grief within the cancer community and finding your voice after it is taken from you. Expect laughs, determination and an infectious optimism.

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

AfterThoughts is supported by Trekstock. Trekstock gets young adults moving again, physically, emotionally, socially and psychologically, after cancer has stopped them in their tracks.

As ever, AfterThoughts deals with some conversations you may find tricky to listen to. If you need any further support, please don't hesitate to get in touch with our friends at Trekstock.

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas and Dinah Mullen.

AfterThoughts x Alike with Brad Gudger

afterthoughtscast@gmail.com (alice-may purkiss, toby peach) — Thu, 1 Apr 2021 07:00:00 +0000

AfterThoughts was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

One year on from the release of our very first episodes, we wanted to give you a little gift while we prepare for Series Three. For this BONUS EPISODE of AfterThoughts, we're checking back in with our pal Brad Gudger to hear a few stories about his idea baby Alike. Alike is a peer to peer support network for young adults who've had cancer and it's powered by friendship. We hear from Brad on how Alike went from the seed of an idea to the app that's available to download right now.

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

Find out more about Alike and follow on Instagram

As ever, AfterThoughts deals with some conversations you may find tricky to listen to. If you need any further support, please don't hesitate to get in touch with our friends at Trekstock.

Due to the social distancing restrictions we're all under at the moment, this episode was recorded via Zoom, so the sound quality might not be as good as we'd usually like. We hope you'll forgive us, given the exceptional circumstances.

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas.

AfterThoughts: The Teenage Years - The Wrap-Up

afterthoughtscast@gmail.com (Toby Peach, Alice-May Purkiss) — Wed, 3 Feb 2021 08:00:00 +0000

AfterThoughts: The Teenage Years was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

In this wrap-up episode, we revisit stories of the kindness of strangers, getting waaaaay out of your comfort zone, identity, the menopause, the mind-body connection and hallucinations involving a dog called Randall. Can you help us #FindRandall?

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

Due to the social distancing restrictions we're all under at the moment, this episode was recorded via Zoom, so the sound quality might not be as good as we'd usually hope. We hope you'll forgive us, given the exceptional circumstances.

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas.

AfterThoughts: The Teenage Years - Borys

afterthoughtscast@gmail.com (Toby Peach, Alice-May Purkiss) — Wed, 20 Jan 2021 09:00:00 +0000

AfterThoughts: The Teenage Years was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

This week, Alice and Toby are joined all the way from Hawaii by Borys. Borys was diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma when he was 20. He joined us to share his stories and chats meditation, exploring with his dad after chemo, maturing like a good cheese and fertility.

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas.

AfterThoughts: The Teenage Years - Gloria

afterthoughtscast@gmail.com (Alice-May Purkiss, Toby Peach) — Wed, 13 Jan 2021 09:00:00 +0000

AfterThoughts: The Teenage Years was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

Our storyteller for this episode is Gloria. Gloria was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia when she was 14. Now, she's 24 and coming up for 10 years since she was diagnosed. She joined us to reflect on what she's learned in those 10 years and chats terrible haircuts, the mental health impact, labels, NG tubes and making friends who go on to die.

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas.

AfterThoughts: The Teenage Years - Debora

afterthoughtscast@gmail.com (Toby Peach, Alice-May Purkiss) — Wed, 6 Jan 2021 09:00:00 +0000

AfterThoughts: The Teenage Years was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

In this episode, Toby and Alice are joined by Debora. Debora was diagnosed with a brain tumour when she was 18. We hear stories about mince pies, proton beam therapy, missed diagnosis and the trauma of uncertainty.

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas.

AfterThoughts: The Teenage Years - Loz

afterthoughtscast@gmail.com (Alice-May Purkiss, Toby Peach) — Wed, 16 Dec 2020 09:00:00 +0000

AfterThoughts: The Teenage Years was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

In this episode, Toby and Alice are joined by Loz who was diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma when they were 13. They tell us stories about exam pressures and studying with cancer, navigating fatigue, identity and fertility.

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas.

AfterThoughts: The Teenage Years - Jake

afterthoughtscast@gmail.com (Alice-May Purkiss, Toby Peach) — Wed, 9 Dec 2020 08:00:00 +0000

AfterThoughts: The Teenage Years was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

In this episode, Toby and Alice are joined by Jake who was diagnosed with a brain tumour when he was 19. He tells us stories about short term memory loss, his cancer gap year, scanxiety and having major brain surgery within hours of finding out you've got cancer.

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas.

AfterThoughts: The Teenage Years - Caitlin

afterthoughtscast@gmail.com (Toby Peach, Alice-May Purkiss) — Wed, 2 Dec 2020 08:00:00 +0000

AfterThoughts: The Teenage Years was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

In this episode, Toby and Alice are joined by Caitlin who was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukaemia (AML) when she was 19. We chat about a pug called Nugget, her brilliant Mum, going through the menopause well before your time and why cancer shouldn't be romanticised.

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas.

AfterThoughts: The Teenage Years - Bhavan

afterthoughtscast@gmail.com (Toby Peach, Alice-May Purkiss) — Wed, 25 Nov 2020 09:00:00 +0000

AfterThoughts: The Teenage Years was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

We're BACK with a BANG and a Bhavan for Series Two! Taking on the stories of The Teenage Years, our first storyteller Bhav, who was diagnosed with follicular lymphoma at the age of 13 joins us to talk music lessons, his TCT youth co-ordinator, the change in mindset that comes with a cancer diagnosis, kebabs and the pals you meet along the way.

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas.

Our NHS Superheroes

afterthoughtscast@gmail.com (Alice-May Purkiss, Toby Peach) — Wed, 1 Jul 2020 07:00:18 +0000

AfterThoughts was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

We're finishing Season One with a BONUS EPISODE. This time, Toby and Alice ask some of our brilliant season one storytellers to share their love for the superheroes keeping the NHS running, not just in the midst of a global pandemic, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

From the doctors and surgeons to the receptionists and cleaning teams who make the cogs in the NHS machine keep moving - we see you and we are grateful every day.

The wrap up episode features Brad Gudger, Kris Hallenga, Ryan Collard and Toral Shah

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

AfterThoughts is supported by Trekstock. Trekstock gets young adults moving again, physically, emotionally, socially and psychologically, after cancer has stopped them in their tracks.

As ever, AfterThoughts deals with some conversations you may find tricky to listen to. If you need any further support, please don't hesitate to get in touch with our friends at Trekstock.

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas.

The Wrap-Up

afterthoughtscast@gmail.com (Toby Peach, Alice-May Purkiss) — Wed, 24 Jun 2020 07:00:12 +0000

AfterThoughts was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

This time, Toby and Alice dip back in to season one to pull out some of their favourite stories from each of the storytellers on each of the seven themes. Our top picks cover fertility, the inconvenience of cancer, being misgendered, coming from the BAME community and having cancer, FIT doctors, the mental health implications of a diagnosis and what Christmas gift to get for the person who's about to save your life.

The wrap up episode features Brad Gudger, Sophie Trew, Kris Hallenga, Dan, Ryan Collard, Toral Shah and Lulu Socratous.

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

AfterThoughts is supported by Trekstock. Trekstock gets young adults moving again, physically, emotionally, socially and psychologically, after cancer has stopped them in their tracks.

As ever, AfterThoughts deals with some conversations you may find tricky to listen to. If you need any further support, please don't hesitate to get in touch with our friends at Trekstock.

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas.

Lulu Socratous

afterthoughtscast@gmail.com (alice-may purkiss, toby peach) — Wed, 10 Jun 2020 07:00:08 +0000

AfterThoughts was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

This time, Toby and Alice are joined by LuLu Socratous, who was diagnosed with neuroendocrine pancreatic cancer, which is very rare. We chat about finding and defining your purpose beyond cancer, managing long term side effects and dealing with the mental health issues that can come after the end of treatment.

Follow LuLu on Instagram

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

AfterThoughts is supported by Trekstock. Trekstock gets young adults moving again, physically, emotionally, socially and psychologically, after cancer has stopped them in their tracks.

As ever, AfterThoughts deals with some conversations you may find tricky to listen to. If you need any further support, please don't hesitate to get in touch with our friends at Trekstock.

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas.

Toral Shah

afterthoughtscast@gmail.com (Alice-May Purkiss, Toby Peach) — Wed, 27 May 2020 07:00:15 +0000

AfterThoughts was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

This time, Toby and Alice are joined by nutritional scientist and chef Toral Shah. Toral was first diagnosed with breast cancer 29. She experienced a reoccurrence a few years later when she was 41. We talk finding yourself after a diagnosis, training for a triathalon after a mastectomy and being united with other cancer patients within the BAME community.

Follow Toral on Instagram and Twitter

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

AfterThoughts is supported by Trekstock. Trekstock gets young adults moving again, physically, emotionally, socially and psychologically, after cancer has stopped them in their tracks.

As ever, AfterThoughts deals with some conversations you may find tricky to listen to. If you need any further support, please don't hesitate to get in touch with our friends at Trekstock.

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas.

Ryan Collard

afterthoughtscast@gmail.com (Alice-May Purkiss, Toby Peach) — Tue, 12 May 2020 14:11:07 +0000

AfterThoughts was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

This time, Toby and Alice are joined by Ryan Collard, Trekstock Young Adult Ambassador and co-founder of Cancer Lads. Ryan and his twin brother Sean were both diagnosed with testicular cancer when they were 23. Ryan talks about fertility, reclaiming your identity and cocktails that come in chemo bags.

Follow Cancer Lads on Instagram.

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

AfterThoughts is supported by Trekstock. Trekstock gets young adults moving again, physically, emotionally, socially and psychologically, after cancer has stopped them in their tracks.

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas.

As ever, AfterThoughts deals with some conversations you may find tricky to listen to. If you need any further support, please don't hesitate to get in touch with our friends at Trekstock.

Dan

afterthoughtscast@gmail.com (Toby Peach, Alice-May Purkiss) — Wed, 29 Apr 2020 07:00:27 +0000

AfterThoughts was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

This time, Toby and Alice are joined by Dan. Dan was diagnosed with thyroid cancer when they were 27. Or 26. Or 27. No, definitely 26. Dan chats to us about being misgendered, Colin the Caterpillar cravings and navigating the gap between them and their peers post cancer.

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

AfterThoughts is supported by Trekstock. Trekstock gets young adults moving again, physically, emotionally, socially and psychologically, after cancer has stopped them in their tracks.

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas.

Please forgive us for some of the sound issues in this episode. The microphone was drawn to Toby throughout recording.

Kris Hallenga

afterthoughtscast@gmail.com (Alice-May Purkiss, Toby Peach) — Wed, 15 Apr 2020 08:00:08 +0000

AfterThoughts was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

This time, Toby and Alice are joined by Kris Hallenga. You may know Kris from her excellent work as boob chief of breast cancer awareness charity CoppaFeel! Kris was diagnosed with secondary breast cancer when she was 23. Then she decided to change the world. We talk friends who drive through the night, the day Kris realised her work really matters and losing your prosthetic boob.

Follow Kris on Twitter & Instagram

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

AfterThoughts is supported by Trekstock. Trekstock gets young adults moving again, physically, emotionally, socially and psychologically, after cancer has stopped them in their tracks.

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas.

Brad Gudger

afterthoughtscast@gmail.com (Toby Peach & Alice-May Purkiss) — Wed, 1 Apr 2020 08:00:26 +0000

AfterThoughts was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

This time, Toby and Alice are joined by Brad Gudger. Brad is Youth Advocate and Social Entrepreneur, who was diagnosed with Leukaemia in 2013. Hear Brad's stories about the LGBTQ+ cancer community, the invisible impacts of forgotten smells what present you get your bone marrow donor?

Follow Brad on Twitter & Instagram

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

AfterThoughts is supported by Trekstock. Trekstock gets young adults moving again, physically, emotionally, socially and psychologically, after cancer has stopped them in their tracks.

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas.

Sophie Trew

afterthoughtscast@gmail.com (Toby Peach & Alice-May Purkiss) — Wed, 1 Apr 2020 08:00:26 +0000

AfterThoughts was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community.

This time, Toby and Alice are joined by Sophie Trew. Sophie is a festival creator, post traumatic growth coach, breathwork specialist and all round legend, who just happened to have Hodgkins Lymphoma. Hear Sophie's stories about hitch-hiking across South America not long after treatment, creating Trew Fields Festival and why cancer was the most destructive but transformative experience of her life.

Follow Sophie and Trew Fields on Instagram

Find AfterThoughts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

AfterThoughts is supported by Trekstock. Trekstock gets young adults moving again, physically, emotionally, socially and psychologically, after cancer has stopped them in their tracks.

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas.

Intro

afterthoughtscast@gmail.com (Toby Peach & Alice-May Purkiss) — Tue, 31 Mar 2020 08:13:08 +0000

AfterThoughts was created to make visible some of the invisible cancer stories from within the young cancer community. Join Toby and Alice as they get to know each other a little better, introduce the themes their storytellers will be exploring in coming episodes and share what makes AfterThoughts different.

Join us on social media - search AfterThoughts34 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

AfterThoughts is supported by Trekstock. Trekstock gets young adults moving again, physically, socially and psychologically, after cancer has stopped them in their tracks.

AfterThoughts is produced by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from Beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas.

AfterThoughts #1

afterthoughtscast@gmail.com (Toby Peach & Alice-May Purkiss) — Wed, 18 Mar 2020 17:34:35 +0000

COMING SOON - Series 1 of AfterThoughts

AfterThoughts is created by Toby Peach and Alice-May Purkiss from beyond Arts. Sounds by Kieron Lucas.