Talking To Charlie.

In this episode, Charlie is joined by embryologist Jessica Manns, who practices out of Radiance Fertility Clinic, Western Pennsylvania's only private fertility practice.  She is also a massive advocate for wanting to help people further understand IVF and everything surrounding it. They discuss the complications that both men and women face when starting chemotherapy and the prospect of being left infertile post treatment.  The options they then have to hand should they want to explore starting a family post treatment.  Cryopreservation of sperm and eggs and what is involved.  As well as a detailed discussion about IVF including the process, side effects and over-riding costs.And whilst IVF can be one option to explore, there are also other alternatives including surrogacy.  Something that Jessica is now more than familiar with, as she is currently 36 weeks pregnant with another couples child.Chemotherapy can leave you infertile but that doesn't mean to say you can't start a family.  This episode is for anyone looking for that reassurance and for those who might be considering IVF. Website: www.talkingtocharlie.comInstagram: @talkingtocharlie DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this series are those of the host and his guests, they do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent.  Nothing in this episode is intended to replace the services of a trained therapist, doctor or health professional, or otherwise to substitute for professional mental health, medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

In this episode, Charlie is joined by Simon Waterfield whom he originally reached out to on Instagram, in light of his strong online presence addressing his own personal cancer experiences. He is also the author of the book - 'Ripple in Still Water: A reflection of life with cancer' - relaying said experiences and exploring how emotions and trains of thought are changed, sometimes permanently through a series of short stories.They discuss Simons original diagnosis and his continued battle with prostate cancer.  Focusing on how prevalent prostate cancer is amongst men and more importantly, the need to be talking about your symptoms, illnesses and alike with friends and family.They take a deeper dive into his book, recognising that cancer can go beyond just the physical effects and can have many mental health concerns associated with it too.Simon is a passionate advocate for wanting to raise further awareness of the risks of prostate cancer and the potential implications for men, as we grow older.  This becomes more and more apparent throughout the episode and is demonstrated even further, through his continued commitment to run a Prostate Cancer Support Group, as well as volunteering with Macmillan as a Cancer Buddy.His book can be found on Amazon or please do take some time to visit his website www.prostateripples.com for further information.A really informative episode for anyone who might be going through their own prostate cancer diagnosis or need an additional resource for a close friend or relative.Website: www.talkingtocharlie.comInstagram: @talkingtocharlie Twitter: @talking2charlieDISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this series are those of the host and his guests, they do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent.  Nothing in this episode is intended to replace the services of a trained therapist, doctor or health professional, or otherwise to substitute for professional mental health, medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

In this episode, Charlie is joined by Michael, who was diagnosed with testicular at the age of 20.They have a very open and honest conversation about his own experience, when having to confront his diagnosis and at such a young age.  Navigating decisions around his fertility, removal of his testicle and the implications that this then had when interacting with the opposite sex and his local community - before then heading to sea with the Navy.They also discuss his role now as a ambassador for Movember, a community that unites every year in November to take on mental health, suicide, prostate cancer and testicular cancer.Having raised in excess of £30,000 to date, he now finds himself taking a daily dip in the Irish Sea!For any guys out there who might be going through similar, this episode will bring you hope and reassurance through what can otherwise be a very daunting time.Website: www.talkingtocharlie.comInstagram: @talkingtocharlie Twitter: @talking2charlieDISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this series are those of the host and his guests, they do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent.  Nothing in this episode is intended to replace the services of a trained therapist, doctor or health professional, or otherwise to substitute for professional mental health, medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

In this episode, Charlie is joined by Richard Hughes, a practicing psychotherapist whose particular areas of interest include relationships, issues men face and boarding school trauma.  A reference to the psychological harm done to many children who were sent away to boarding school.Following the previous episode with Jamie and his suggestion that his experience at boarding school lead to his various struggles with addictions and wearing 'a mask' for much of his early adulthood, they explore this theory further and their own respective experiences in more detail.They discuss the issues of abandonment and how this can manifest into adulthood.  Struggles with intimacy, relationships and battling the boarding double bind.  That feeling of anxiousness, hurt and being let down at school but unable to say anything because you risk upsetting your parents, who have spent a lot of money to send you there.The need for a secure attachment throughout our childhood, characterised by feelings of safety, trust and the ability to seek comfort when needed.  Which can be absent at boarding school. A great listen for anyone who might have been to private school and feels that something may be a little 'off' in the way that they now feel and ultimately, what we can do to start to navigate these feelings.Website: www.talkingtocharlie.comInstagram: @talkingtocharlie Twitter: @talking2charlieDISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this series are those of the host and his guests, they do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent.  Nothing in this episode is intended to replace the services of a trained therapist, doctor or health professional, or otherwise to substitute for professional mental health, medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

In this episode, Charlie is joined by his old school friend Jamie, who he first met when they were sent to boarding school at the age of 7.  Whilst a friendship blossomed back then, they soon found themselves going there separate ways as life took its course.Fast forward 40 years and a chance school reunion cricket match, they have been able to reconnect and get up-to-speed on their respective lives.To say Jamie has been through his fair share of challenges would be an understatement; and in this episode, he relays first-hand what those past 40 years have been like for him.This includes his experience with drink & drug addiction; suicidal ideation; close encounters with the 14K triad gang in Hong Kong and the befriending of a wild otter off the coast of South Africa.Remarkably and whilst by his own admittance he did hit rock bottom, he has now been able to turn his life around and finds himself helping others who have been through similar challenges.A true story of hope and inspiration for anyone who may be going through similar; and to also know, that they should never give up.Website: www.talkingtocharlie.comInstagram: @talkingtocharlie Twitter: @talking2charlieDISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this series are those of the host and his guests, they do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent.  Nothing in this episode is intended to replace the services of a trained therapist, doctor or health professional, or otherwise to substitute for professional mental health, medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

In this episode, Charlie is joined by Lydia who was diagnosed with terminal breast cancer over four years ago.  You might recall her husband, Hadley also joined him on the show a few episodes back.Lydia gives a detailed account of how she continues to overcome her ordeal, exploring different remedies and medicines that she believes have all attributed to where she finds herself today.  These include reiki meditation, sound bars, oxygen chambers and more.Trying not to despair despite everything and retaining a positive mental attitude throughout, all playing their part too.Her perseverance and positivity, as well as numerous hobbies have allowed her to have as balanced a life as possible, whilst continuing to be a mother to her three children.She continues to take matters into her own hands, keeping her cancer at bay and with a core belief that it will never return.A truly inspiring account for anyone out their who might be feeling overwhelmed by it all and in need of some inspiration.  Never give up.Website: www.talkingtocharlie.comInstagram: @talkingtocharlie Twitter: @talking2charlieDISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this series are those of the host and his guests, they do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent.

In this episode, Charlie is joined by Lucy who was diagnosed with Stage 4 breast cancer at the age of 28.Living a seamlessly normal life, her world was turned upside down when she discovered a small lump above her left breast on Christmas Eve last year.Fast forward 6 months and Lucy tells of her remarkable story and how she now finds herself with no evidence of having cancerous cells in her body at all.Realigning her mindset, thinking and attitude towards her diagnosis; as well as making some significant changes in her lifestyle.  She was able to overcome adversity, when at times the outlook had looked very bleak.A truly inspiring story that can bring hope to all those women out there who might be suffering in a similar vein.Website: www.talkingtocharlie.comInstagram: @talkingtocharlie Twitter: @talking2charlieDISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this series are those of the host and his guests, they do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent.

In this episode, Charlie is joined by Hadley whose wife has been diagnosed with terminal breast cancer following 6 months of failed chemotherapy.As a successful businessman and father of 3 teenage children, he's had to learn to manage his emotions and mental health for the benefit of all those around him and in particular his wife, Lydia.  As they greet every day as a blessing, with profound positivity and enthusiasm.They explore how he had to admit to himself that he was struggling, but at the same time wanted to show strength when faced with the reality of the situation.  How setting and celebrating short term goals has really brought a fresh perspective to both their lives, as they take each day one at a time with a sense of gratitude, enjoyment and laughter.This is a very emotional and raw account of what life is like living with cancer and as a partner of someone who has been diagnosed.*It also includes a world exclusive of his son Alfie's song 'Don't Let Go!', that he wrote for his mother upon her diagnosis.Website: www.talkingtocharlie.comInstagram: @talkingtocharlie Twitter: @talking2charlieDISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this series are those of the host and his guests, they do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent.

In this episode, Charlie is joined by Hazy's mother Alice, following the previous episode with her husband, Paddy.Having had a very candid and somewhat emotional discussion with Paddy about Hazy's diagnosis, her subsequent treatment and the magical moment when she rang the bell in Great Ormond Street Hospital.  Charlie & Alice now discuss what life has been like for herself specifically and her family, post ringing the bell and up to the present day.They explore how it wasn't just a matter of going back to life as they knew it, but something completely different entirely.  Realising the profound effects, both physically and emotionally that the whole experience has had on her and the family.As a mother, this is very heart-warming and real account of how when we put our minds to it, we can overcome adversity and actually seek opportunity in the worst of situations.Website: www.talkingtocharlie.comInstagram: @talkingtocharlie Twitter: @talking2charlieDISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this series are those of the host and his guests, they do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent.

In this episode, Charlie is joined by his very good friend Paddy Richardson.  Paddy is a successful businessman and married father of three.  Rewind nine years and Paddy and his wife Alice, received the news that no parent would ever wish to get, that their child had cancer.  Their youngest daughter Hazel, only 18 months old at the time was diagnosed with a very rare form of leukemia called Juvenile Myelomonocytic Leukaemia (JMML).They discuss the whole experience first-hand.  From her initial diagnosis to the magical moment when she rang 'the bell' in Great Ormond Street Hospital two years later.  They also explore the intense roller coaster of emotions experienced by himself as a parent, his wife and their eldest daughter Romy too.This episode is for any parent or family who has had a child diagnosed with a serious illness, but also goes to show the value in being there for one another no matter what.Website: www.talkingtocharlie.comInstagram: @talkingtocharlie Twitter: @talking2charlieYouTube: @talking2charlieDISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this series are those of the host and his guests, they do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent

In this episode, Charlie changes places as the host of his own show and becomes the guest.Following a few requests suggesting listeners wanted to learn more about Charlie's own diagnosis and experience, that is exactly what the focus and premise of this episode is.His previous guest, James Benzing takes on the hosting duties and they take a more detailed look back at his own journey.  Having been diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma at eighteen years old and given the all-clear.  Twelve year's later, he relapsed only to have a more advanced case and a further six-months of chemotherapy treatment to navigate.They discuss the many different side effects he experienced as part of his chemotherapy including vomiting, infertility, hair loss, ulcers and more.  As well as the long-term effects post his chemotherapy, that would still appear to play a part in his life.They focus on the importance of having the right network of resources and your friends and family to hand, to help support you through your journey.They also pay mention to his aspirations for Talking To Charlie.  Hoping that one day, it might become a recognised resource for all those seeking support through their own respective journeys and experiences.Website: www.talkingtocharlie.comInstagram: @talkingtocharlie Twitter: @talking2charlieYouTube: @talking2charlieDISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this series are those of the host and his guests, they do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent

In this latest episode, Charlie is joined by James Benzing, his therapist and now good friend.  In the previous episode, Charlie's guest Lucy Smail was adamant that her cancer diagnosis all stemmed from the trauma she experienced upon learning of her sons paralysis.  Her body shut down and became overridden with cortisol and various other symptoms.Whilst the direct causation of cancer by injury remains unproven, emerging research suggests that trauma may play a role in the progression of existing cancer.  Indeed, well-known physician and best-selling author, Dr. Gabor Mate, believes there is a connection between psychological/environmental experiences and medical afflictions like cancer, addiction and trauma.  He rejects the assumption that the human mind and body are separate entities. Charlie and James take a deeper dive into this theory, using Charlie's own experience as a case study.  To understand, if there might be any correlation at all between his own diagnosis and any past experiences that might testify to this.Their conversation would suggest that there is, as they find themselves taking a look back as far as Charlie's primary education and the emotions he experienced then and subsequently repressed until now. This episode is a particularly personal and candid account of Charlie's own experience, as he continues on his quest to help others navigate through their own respective journeys. Website: www.talkingtocharlie.comInstagram: @talkingtocharlie Twitter: @talking2charlieYouTube: @talking2charlieDISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this series are those of the host and his guests, they do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent

In this episode, Charlie is joined by Lucy, who was diagnosed with Stage 4 Colon Cancer and told she had just 5 months to live.After the initial shock and not to be disheartened, she started to do her own research in an attempt to overcome her prognosis.  Reading up on all the alternative medicines, self-healing techniques and practices out there she came across dentritic cell therapy.  A novel treatment strategy to generate tumor-specific immunity in patients with advanced cancer.Embarking on an intense cycle of chemotherapy, she also began the dentritic cell therapy as part of her programme.  Fast forward three years and she now finds herself in remission, living a fulfilled life in Portugal.  As well as continuing to put in to practice everything she learnt during this very challenging period, she now has set her heart on bringing to life her own retreat to help others on their respective cancer journeys.I was blown away by Lucy's courage and determination during what must have been a very daunting and scary time, as well as fascinated by how the body and mind has the ability to heal.  Join us and be as inspired by Lucy's story. Website: www.talkingtocharlie.comInstagram: @talkingtocharlie Twitter: @talking2charlieYouTube: @talking2charlieDISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this series are those of the host and his guests, they do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent.

In this episode, Charlie is joined by his good friend Andrew Finlay.  Andrew is a leading nutritionist, as well as the Owner of the hugely successful well-being retreat, Wild View Retreat in Portugal.  But he didn't get there by chance.  He had to circumnavigate certain life changing events and scenarios before finding his purpose and focusing on a new career altogether and all things nutrition.They discuss various aspects of diet and nutrition, as well as how your food choices can help with the prevention of cancer; build your strength & immunity during treatment; and the importance of being more self-aware whilst in remission.Their conversation highlights that we don't need to be too regimented when it comes to food choices, all in moderation, but certainly being more self-aware about the choices we make and what it is you want from your own specific diet journey.This episode is for all those people who are keen to make some serious changes, when it comes to all things diet.Website: www.talkingtocharlie.comInstagram: @talkingtocharlie Twitter: @talking2charlieYouTube: @talking2charlieDISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this series are those of the host and his guests, they do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent.

In this episode, Charlie is joined by his own oncologist Professor George Follows and they discuss various aspects of cancer, as well as having a heart-to-heart about their own experiences together.George is one of the countries leading haematologists and as well as holding a number of key appointments at regional and national level, he also has a keen interest in teaching and is very active in clinical trials research. They discuss the increasing prevalence of cancer, the impact of blood cancer and Hodgkin Lymphoma plus the complexity of cancer and DNA damage.  Prevention and lifestyle choices, as well as advancements in cancer screening and cancer therapeutics, Delivering the news of a cancer diagnosis, the support and community for cancer patients and how trying to retain a positive mental attitude throughout your own personal experiences should be encouraged.Their conversation highlights that whilst the statistics might not suggest, the progress being made in cancer treatment is significant and we should all take heart from this.Website: www.talkingtocharlie.comInstagram: @talkingtocharlie Twitter: @talking2charlieYouTube: @talking2charlieDISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this series are those of the host and his guests, they do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent.

Hi and welcome to Talking to Charlie.I'm your host Charlie and this is my podcast.  Hoping to extend a hand if you like, to all those who have been directly or indirectly affected by cancer in their lives.I'll be inviting guests from all walks of life including oncologists, patients, parents of patients, nutritionists, psychologists and celebrities alike.We'll also go beyond just cancer and inviting guests to explore other topics including alcoholism, addiction, suicide, abuse and trauma amongst others.  Basically, all those things that life can sometimes unexpectedly throw at us.A touch of light heartedness you might wonder.  Well yes.  We're just going to be as matter of fact as possible, raw, authentic and real - as we take a deeper dive into all those proverbial dog shits. There's likely to be tears and laughter on the way.  But if it means just one person connects with the things we'll be talking about.  Well, that for me is a win.So join me for the first episode of Talking To Charlie from February 4th when I'll be joined by my very own oncologist, Doctor George Follows.Website: www.talkingtocharlie.comInstagram: @talkingtocharlie Twitter: @talking2charlieYouTube: @talking2charlie