Episode 228 - 53 Kilometres, A Sex Toy & Lots of Laughter

This week's episode is a little different. A few weeks ago, a group of us took on a 53km challenge across the Peak District to raise money for Menopause and Cancer. Somewhere between the hills, the aching feet, the snack stops and plenty of laughter, I had this feeling that I wanted to ‘bottle up’ some of the conversations and the energy we had - to bring it to you. So, instead of an expert interview, I thought I'd invite you to come along for the post-walk chat with us. You'll hear honest conversations, a few giggles, reflections on why community matters so much after cancer...and yes, the story of why I ended up feeling rather guilty about keeping hold of one of the prizes that had been donated for our walkers. Let's just say...it involved a rather unexpected gift from our lovely Dr Angela Wright! This episode is a reminder that healing doesn't only happen in clinic rooms. Sometimes it happens when you're walking alongside people who simply understand. Whether you've been listening for four weeks or four years, thank you for being part of this community. And if today's episode leaves you wishing you were there with us, why not join our **London Bridges Challenge on 12 September**? We'd absolutely love to welcome you. Or perhaps you'll even be tempted by the whispers of an even bigger challenge next year…? You can also take on a challenge anywhere in the world too! Who's in? 😉 **And one more thing...** This is the final episode before a special two-part series where I'll be sharing the **next chapter** of the podcast. Don't worry: the conversations you know and love aren't going anywhere, but I can't wait to share what's been quietly unfolding behind the scenes. **Episode Highlights:** 00:00 Intro 06:37 Reflecting on the race challenge 07:34 Struggling during the race 14:29 Walking challenge with friends 18:52 Completing a charity walkathon 22:30 Discussing resilience and support 27:35 Discussing the “Lemon” 32:22 Building a supportive community 34:10 Community and charity challenges 43:50 Fundraising and community involvement **Links & Resources** Navigating Menopause After Cancer: my bestselling book bringing together expert advice, lived experience and practical guidance to help you navigate menopause after cancer. https://amzn.eu/d/0fuL8JSs Join the Thames Bridges Trek with the Menopause and Cancer Community – 12th September in London https://menopauseandcancer.org/thames-bridges-trek/ Take on any other fundraising challenge anywhere in the world https://fundraiseformenopauseandcancer.raiselysite.com/fundraisingideas If you’re keen to explore another long-distance hike next year, please email [phoebe@menopauseandcancer.org](mailto:phoebe@menopauseandcancer.org) **Connect with us:** **For more information and resources visit our website:** www.menopauseandcancer.org **Or follow us on Instagram** @menopause\_and\_cancer **Join our Facebook group:** www.facebook.com/groups/menopauseandcancerchathub Mentioned in this episode: Fundraiser Walk: And walk: https://fundraiseformenopauseandcancer.raiselysite.com/thamesbridgestrekultrachallenge Substack: https://danibinnington.substack.com/