Episodi

  • Episode 18 – Signing Off, The Number on Your Head and Outtakes

    Episode 18 – Signing Off, The Number on Your Head and Outtakes

    · Friends of ANCHOR

    In this final episode of the podcast, Mike signs off by answering rather than asking the questions during the interview slot, Alison and he round off the ‘Finding the Words’ series, and a peek behind the scenes of the podcast is provided by a selection of outtakes.

    The following points are among those covered in this episode:

    Sarah-Jane Hogg, Chief Executive of Friends of ANCHOR, interviews Mike about his connection with Friends of ANCHOR and his experience of running the podcast over the last eighteen months or so. Sarah-Jane also explains the factors that have led to the feeling that now is the right time to bring the podcast to an end. [01:00]In their final ‘Finding the Words’ slot, Mike and Alison reflect on recent developments that have encouraged people to speak more openly and naturally about cancer and other serious illnesses. Alison also shares her appreciation of the way in which comedian, Mark Steel, describes cancer as being like having a leopard in your house while Mike talks about what it’s like to feel that you have ‘a number on your head’, following a cancer diagnosis and treatment. [19:26]The concluding ‘And Finally’ slot features some outtakes that transport listeners behind the scenes of the podcast and confirm everyone’s suspicions that recordings weren’t always safely ‘in the can’ after a single take! [27:58]

    Please email us via [email protected] if you would like to contact us in connection with this podcast. We would love to hear from you.

    This show has been brought to you by Free Range Podcasting.

  • Episode 17 – Lynn Ingram, Heather Allan and the news that got Erica buzzing!

    Episode 17 – Lynn Ingram, Heather Allan and the news that got Erica buzzing!

    · Friends of ANCHOR

    In this episode, we hear from Friends of ANCHOR Ward Assistants, Lynn Ingram and Heather Allan, about the practical support that they provide for patients, and we also find out about the news that had Erica buzzing this week!

    The following points are among those covered in this episode:

    Erica Banks, Head of Communications at Friends of ANCHOR, expresses her delight in response to this week’s announcement that the charity has been voted by the general public to be one of five charity partners with our local newspaper, ‘The Press and Journal’, for this coming year. She also highlights a new opportunity that is available this year for anyone interested in combining a charity donation with a special, personalised Christmas gift. In addition, Erica draws attention to some of the event highlights that are in the offing for 2024. [01:25]Erica interviews Lynn Ingram and Heather Allan about the very significant contribution to patient wellbeing and support that they make as ward assistants. Lynn and Heather also provide an insight into the efforts that are made to spread some festive cheer across the wards at this time of the year while also being sensitive to the ongoing needs and circumstances of patients. [08:13]Mike lets listeners know that the podcast is taking a planned break for a few months. [22:13]

    Suggestions or feedback about the podcast can be sent to [email protected], and you can sign up to receive news and updates by clicking on this link.

    This show has been brought to you by Free Range Podcasting.

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  • Episode 16 – Judy Alexander, Gail Rose and the Great ‘Courage’ Takeover!

    Episode 16 – Judy Alexander, Gail Rose and the Great ‘Courage’ Takeover!

    · Friends of ANCHOR

    ‘Courage on the Catwalk’ is the theme of this episode, with contributions from Sarah-Jane Hogg, Judy Alexander and Gail Rose.

    The following points are among those covered in this episode:

    Sarah-Jane Hogg explains that November sees the launch of the search for models to take part in the ‘Courage on the Catwalk’ and ‘Brave’ events in May 2024 at P&J Live, prompting a takeover of the podcast to celebrate ten years of ‘Courage on the Catwalk’! [01:06]Sarah-Jane introduces her guests, Judy Alexander and Gail Rose. At the tender age of 81, Judy became a ‘Courage on the Catwalk Original’ when she took part in the inaugural event in 2013. Gail was the joint initiator, along with Sarah-Jane, of the fashion show events that have now become the combined highlight of the Friends of the ANCHOR calendar. With her company, Premiere Productions, Gail provides the choreography, support and inspiration that makes each show such a tremendous occasion. [05:37]Sarah-Jane rounds off her takeover of the podcast by providing ticketing information for the shows and by paying tribute to the ‘Red Army’ of volunteers who make the events possible. [25:41]

    Suggestions or feedback about the podcast can be sent to [email protected], and you can sign up to receive news and updates by clicking on this link.

    This show has been brought to you by Free Range Podcasting.

  • Episode 15 – Vicki Youngson, Support from the North Sea and ‘The One with the Ducks’

    Episode 15 – Vicki Youngson, Support from the North Sea and ‘The One with the Ducks’

    · Friends of ANCHOR

    Vicki Youngson talks about her role as Head of Wellbeing at Friends of ANCHOR, and we find out about charitable support that came from the North Sea as well as discovering the story behind ‘The One with the Ducks’!

    The following points are among those covered in this episode:

    Erica Banks reports on a record-breaking Gala Golf event in September and shares details of a further batch of varied and impressive fundraising endeavours that are happening this month. [00:52]Vicki Youngson, Head of Wellbeing at Friends of ANCHOR, talks about her role and describes some of the ways in which patients currently benefit from the services provided by her team and how that provision is about to expand. [05:34]This month’s ‘From the Archives’ instalment notes that support for the charity has not always been exclusively land-based as fundraising donations have included contributions from the crews of North Sea oil platforms and also of a Floating Production Vessel! [17:38]In the ‘Finding the Words’ feature, Mike tries to convince Alison that being known on the ward as the ‘the one with the ducks’ was a good thing! He argues that it not only acted as a helpful ice-breaker, it also made him feel more in control of the situation. [18:46]For this month’s ‘And Finally’ item, Mike dips into the world of metaphors [22:32], first of all providing an example of ‘cancer’ itself being used as a metaphor:

    "Fools" said I, "You do not know

    Silence like a cancer grows”

    ‘The Sound of Silence’ Paul Simon

    He then describes and comments on Rochelle L. Colón’s use of ‘fire’ as an extended metaphor in her poem, ‘Scorch’.

    Listeners are invited to share similar creative responses that have inspired them by sending relevant details to [email protected]. Other suggestions, feedback or questions can also be sent to that address, and you can sign up to receive news and updates by clicking on this link.

    This show has been brought to you by Free Range Podcasting.

  • Episode 14 – Al Lawrie, Meikle Wartle and ‘Unsteady’

    Episode 14 – Al Lawrie, Meikle Wartle and ‘Unsteady’

    · Friends of ANCHOR

    Consultant Haematologist, Dr Al Lawrie, talks about research and how Friends of ANCHOR makes a difference. In addition, we find out who put Meikle Wartle on the charity’s fundraising map and why ‘Unsteady’ features on Mike’s cancer playlist!

    The following points are among those covered in this episode:

    Erica Banks previews a busy month for the charity, drawing attention to some very noteworthy fundraising events and challenges that will be taking place over the next few weeks. [00:52]Dr Al Lawrie, Consultant Haematologist at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, talks about research, being on the Friends of ANCHOR Committee and Blood Cancer Awareness Month. He also explains how he didn’t cycle 1800 miles across Aberdeenshire, Orkney and Shetland when supporting the charity’s 20for20 campaign in 2017! [06:43]This month’s ‘From the Archives’ instalment celebrates the fundraising contributions of supporters from three iconic North-east locations: Buckie, Footdee (Fittie) and Meikle Wartle. [24:35]In the ‘Finding the Words’ feature, Mike surprises Alison with his cancer playlist but not with his musical taste! Mike explains that using ‘Unsteady’ by X Ambassadors as a backing track to a video message sent to colleagues had helped him to express himself in a way that might not have been possible otherwise. [26:28]For this month’s ‘And Finally’ item, Mike comments on some of the suggestions included in the list of ‘80 Best Cancer Podcasts’ suggested by the website, ‘Feedspot’. [30:24]

    Suggestions or feedback about the podcast can be sent to [email protected], and you can sign up to receive news and updates by clicking on this link.

    This show has been brought to you by Free Range Podcasting.

  • Episode 13 – Rachel Hall, Stem Cell Transplant and the Oppenheimer Connection

    Episode 13 – Rachel Hall, Stem Cell Transplant and the Oppenheimer Connection

    · Friends of ANCHOR

    Rachel Hall talks about her Clinical Nurse Specialist role, Mike and Alison find words to discuss Mike’s Stem Cell Transplant treatment, and J Robert Oppenheimer makes a surprise appearance!

    The following points are among those covered in this episode:

    Erica Banks updates listeners on the Kilt Walk, the Red Run, fundraising for the Cancer Research Team and reaching the ‘ANCHORED Together’ appeal target. In this ‘milestone sharing’ episode, mention is also made of an upcoming, happy occasion that will take Erica away from Friends of ANCHOR activities for a couple of weeks! [00:45]Mike talks to Rachel Hall, whose Clinical Nurse Specialist areas are sarcomas and cancers of an unknown primary origin. As well as drawing attention to Sarcoma Awareness Month, Rachel highlighted sarcoma symptoms of which we need to be aware and spoke enthusiastically about the ‘Courage on the Catwalk’ event and the ‘Making Memories’ initiative. [07:02]This month’s ‘From the Archives’ instalment pays tribute to fundraising efforts coming out of Inverbervie, Gourdon and Johnshaven, each of which is located on the Aberdeenshire coast, just south of Stonehaven. [22:44]In the ‘Finding the Words’ feature, Mike and Alison talk about Mike’s Stem Cell Transplant and the various ways in which it highlighted how language can affect, and reflect, our response to a situation. [24:07]In this month’s ‘And Finally’ item, Mike explores the connection that medical historians have made between the protagonist of this summer’s blockbuster movie, ‘’Oppenheimer’, and the development of Stem Cell Transplants. [29:21]

    Suggestions or feedback about the podcast can be sent to [email protected], and you can sign up to receive news and updates by clicking on this link.

    This show has been brought to you by Free Range Podcasting.

  • Episode 12 – Yvonne Wright, Sharing Silence and Sir Percivall Pott

    Episode 12 – Yvonne Wright, Sharing Silence and Sir Percivall Pott

    · Friends of ANCHOR

    Yvonne Wright talks about her role as Chief Nurse for Aberdeen Royal Infirmary's clinical support team, ‘Silence’ is the theme of this month’s ‘Finding the Words’ feature and Mike explains why Sir Percivall Pott should be better known.

    The following points are among those covered in this episode:

    Mike talks to Yvonne Wright about her wide-ranging and significant role as Chief Nurse for Aberdeen Royal Infirmary's clinical support team and the changes that she has seen in medical provision and practice over the years. [01:46]In this month’s instalment of ‘From the Archives’, Mike draws attention to the terrific community support that is a feature of towns, villages and hamlets across the North-East of Scotland. On this occasion, it is the turn of Dess and Dinnet to be given a shout-out! [18:01]In this month’s ‘Finding the Words’ feature, Mike and Alison discuss their experiences of silence and suggest that it is worth thinking about the contribution that it can make to the conversations that occur when someone is in hospital for a period of time. [20:10]Mike uses the ‘And Finally’ slot to draw attention to the groundbreaking work of Sir Percivall Pott in identifying a causal connection between an individual’s working environment and the possibility of contracting cancer. [25:07]

    Suggestions or feedback about the podcast can be sent to [email protected], and you can sign up to receive news and updates by clicking on this link.

    This show has been brought to you by Free Range Podcasting.

  • Episode 11 - Graham and Stuart Strachan, Meltdown Moments and Ice Cream Therapy!

    Episode 11 - Graham and Stuart Strachan, Meltdown Moments and Ice Cream Therapy!

    · Friends of ANCHOR

    Brothers, Graham and Stuart Strachan, reflect on their experience of receiving a diagnosis of cancer within a short time of each other, and they also talk about participating in the fashion show, ‘Brave’.

    In this month’s ‘Finding the Words’ feature, Mike and Alison describe an occasion when they were not on the same page
 and ice cream gets regular mentions throughout the episode!

    The following points are among those covered in this episode:

    Erica Banks, Communications Lead for Friends of ANCHOR, provides an update on news items and forthcoming events, including the Kilt Walk and the Red Run. [00:52]Graham and Stuart Strachan share candid and moving reflections on their experience of being treated for cancer within a year of each other, as well as talking about their recent participation in the ‘Brave’ fashion show. [06:05]In this month’s ‘Finding the Words’ feature, Alison, finally gets to lift the lid on Mike’s reluctance – she would use a stronger word – to acknowledge that a serious illness needs to be taken seriously! [27:19]Mike uses this month’s ‘And Finally’ slot to launch a campaign for serious research to be undertaken into the physiological and psychological benefits of the therapeutic use of ice cream. Unsurprisingly, he volunteers to be the first human guinea pig to be involved in clinical trials in this area! [31:18]

    Suggestions or feedback about the podcast can be sent to [email protected], and you can sign up to receive news and updates by clicking on this link.

    This show has been brought to you by Free Range Podcasting.

  • Episode 10 – Dominic Culligan, Advances in Treatments
 and Leeches!

    Episode 10 – Dominic Culligan, Advances in Treatments… and Leeches!

    · Friends of ANCHOR

    Dr Dominic Culligan, Consultant Haematologist at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, talks about advances in the treatment of blood-related cancers. Mention is also made of leeches making a comeback for medical treatment purposes!

    The following points are among those covered in this episode:

    Erica Banks, Communications Lead for Friends of ANCHOR, sets the scene for the imminent ‘Brave’ and ‘Courage on the Catwalk’ events. Attention is also drawn to Matt Huntington’s amazing 25+25+250 running challenge, which Matt is hoping to complete this month. Donations to Friends of ANCHOR in support of Matt’s efforts can be made at https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/mattruns4anchor [00:47]Mike talks to Consultant Haematologist, Dr Dominic Culligan, about his medical career, the development of better targeted and less invasive blood cancer treatments, and the remarkable contribution made by Friends of ANCHOR through its patient welfare and staff research initiatives, complemented by its provision of equipment and training opportunities. [05:34]The ‘From the Archives’ and ‘Finding the Words’ features have been omitted this month to make room for the full interview with Dominic Culligan, but the ‘And Finally’ slot is retained and focuses on a treatment used in haematology in the past that wasn’t covered in the discussion with Dominic: the deployment of leeches to treat certain conditions because of the supposed benefits of using them to draw blood from patients! It turns out that leeches are currently making something of a comeback because of the invaluable contribution that they can make to certain medical procedures, most notably amputation scenarios! It turns out, also, that one of only two registered leech farms in the whole world is located in a tiny Welsh village just outside Swansea and, at any one time, it can be cultivating up to one hundred thousand of these ‘blood-sucking worms’! [30:00]

    Suggestions or feedback about the podcast can be sent to [email protected], and you can sign up to receive news and updates by clicking on this link.

    This show has been brought to you by Free Range Podcasting.

  • Episode 9 – Angie Shepherd, ‘Kia Kaha’ and Cancer April Fools

    Episode 9 – Angie Shepherd, ‘Kia Kaha’ and Cancer April Fools

    · Friends of ANCHOR

    Angie Shepherd talks about her role as a colorectal clinical nurse specialist. The inspirational Māori expression, ‘Kia kaha’, and cancer-themed April Fools are also featured.

    The following points are among those covered in this episode:

    Erica Banks, Communications Lead for Friends of ANCHOR, provides an update on news items and forthcoming events, including the progress being made with preparations for this year’s ‘Brave’ and ‘Courage on the Catwalk’ events. [00:47]Mike talks to Colorectal CNS (Clinical Nurse Specialist), Angie Shepherd, about her role in supporting bowel cancer patients. As well as highlighting various ways in which Friends of ANCHOR provides invaluable assistance in this area, Angie draws attention to information awareness initiatives such as Bowelbabe and Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month (which, this year, has included a very helpful and informative video featuring Alan Titchmarsh). [04:34]Mike continues his attempts to create a podcast quiz format that works, this time asking listeners to fill in the ‘beeps’ to discover the puns that were used in 2010 and 2012 news items to describe the brilliant fundraising efforts of various supporters of Friends of ANCHOR. [20:16]In the ‘Finding the Words’ section of this episode, Mike and Alison discuss some examples of how words can keep our spirits up while we are dealing with the rollercoaster of emotions, uncertainties and questions that come with the territory when a diagnosis of cancer occurs. Mike had found the Māori expression, ‘Kia kaha’ (‘Stay strong!’), particularly helpful, often using it to have a word with himself when he was feeling a bit ‘wobbly’. [22:32]For this month’s ‘And Finally’ slot, Mike considers the question of whether or not a cancer-themed April Fool can ever work! One attempt worthy of note was Macmillan Cancer Support’s 2010 spoof campaign in support of their annual coffee morning when they worked with Google to showcase a fictional island called “Macmilland”, which was shaped like a coffee cup and appeared on Google maps! [28:25]

    Suggestions or feedback about the podcast can be sent to [email protected], and you can sign up to receive news and updates by clicking on this link.

    This show has been brought to you by Free Range Podcasting.

  • Episode 8 - Matt's Next Challenge, 'From the Archives' Quiz and Cancer Treats

    Episode 8 - Matt's Next Challenge, 'From the Archives' Quiz and Cancer Treats

    · Friends of ANCHOR

    Matt Huntington speaks about his 25 + 25 + 250 challenge, Mike reflects on the fact that hospitals can have a language all of their own and shares his experiences of ‘cancer treats’. An inaugural quiz based on a news item from the Friends of ANCHOR archives is also featured!

    The following points are among those covered in this episode:

    Mike follows up his Episode 5 interview with Matt Huntington so that Matt can provide an update on his latest challenge, which he is aiming to conclude in May. Donations in support of Matt’s fundraising efforts can be made at https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/mattruns4anchor [02:17]The ‘From the Archives’ feature continues the running theme, with Mike posing quiz questions to listeners about an inaugural running fundraising event that took place in support of Friends of ANCHOR on 16th May 1999. [15:57]In the ‘Finding the Words’ section of this episode, Mike shares reflections on some of his experiences of words and language in the hospital context after he had been admitted to a haematology ward for treatment. [18:39]For this month’s ‘And Finally’ slot, Mike considers how receiving something special as a ‘cancer treat’ can make a huge difference to how we feel when we are in the middle of grappling with cancer and its impact on our lives. [25:20]

    Suggestions or feedback about the podcast can be sent to [email protected], and you can sign up to receive news and updates by clicking on this link.

    This show has been brought to you by Free Range Podcasting.

  • Episode 7 – Gail Roberts (OG), Courage on the Catwalk and Cancer Slogans

    Episode 7 – Gail Roberts (OG), Courage on the Catwalk and Cancer Slogans

    · Friends of ANCHOR

    Mike interviews Gail Roberts, one of the original Courage on the Catwalk participants, as well as looking at some cancer slogans in advance of World Cancer Day on February 4th.

    The following points are among those covered in this episode:

    Erica Banks, Communications Lead for Friends of ANCHOR, provides an update on news items and forthcoming events, drawing attention, in particular, to the imminent deadline for signing up for this year’s ‘Brave’ and ‘Courage on the Catwalk’ events. [00:53]Mike interviews Gail Roberts, one of the models who took part in the very first ‘Courage on the Catwalk’ event in 2013. As well as reflecting on her experience of that inaugural fashion show, Gail talks about her own experience of cancer and the impact that a cancer diagnosis can have on family and friends. [03:51]Mike goes ‘technical’ in this month’s ‘From the Archives’ segment when celebrating some early equipment donations that were made possible by the generosity of supporters of Friends of ANCHOR. Mike mentions Paxman scalp cooling machines, the ProSOMA 3D Virtual System Simulation and harmonic scalpels. A good number of additional examples can be provided in the future if this would be of interest to listeners! [16:24]In the ‘Finding the Words’ section of this episode, Alison gets to ask the questions as Mike reflects on passing on news of his cancer diagnosis to colleagues, pupils and parents at the school at which he taught. [17:48]With World Cancer Day coming up on February 4th, Mike comments on some cancer slogans in the ‘And Finally’ slot. [26:18]

    Suggestions or feedback about the podcast can be sent to [email protected], and you can sign up to receive news and updates by clicking on this link.

    This show has been brought to you by Free Range Podcasting.

  • Episode 6 - John Greensmyth on ‘Brave’ and Side-effects, plus Podcast Outtakes

    Episode 6 - John Greensmyth on ‘Brave’ and Side-effects, plus Podcast Outtakes

    · Friends of ANCHOR

    John Greensmyth talks about the fashion show ‘Brave’, dealing with cancer treatment side-effects and 'Men and Cancer'; some podcast outtakes are also included.

    The following points are among those covered in this episode:

    Erica Banks, Communications Lead for Friends of ANCHOR, draws attention to the Wellbeing Retreat Day that is happening on Saturday 14 January at King’s Church, Aberdeen, providing an opportunity for patients, their families and carers to sample some of the wellbeing services and therapies offered by the charity. She also lets listeners know that applications are now being invited for this year’s year’s ‘Brave’ and ‘Courage on the Catwalk’ events. [00:47]John Greensmyth introduces himself and talks about his involvement with the fundraising fashion show, ‘Brave’. [05:57]John reflects on ‘Men and Cancer’ and his experience of men supporting each other during the ‘Brave’ event. [21:19]John speaks about dealing with some of the side-effects of his treatment for cancer. [23:25]John explains how helpful and important it was to him and his wife that he received great support and understanding from his employers and his work colleagues. [26:32]John describes his hopes and aspirations for the Friends of ANCHOR podcast. [28:34]Sharing some podcasting outtakes, Mike reveals that even a media pro like Erica Banks can be prone to the odd blooper! He and Alison have also struggled to keep their audio on track at times! [30:19]

    Suggestions or feedback about the podcast can be sent to [email protected], and you can sign up to receive news and updates by clicking on this link.

    This show has been brought to you by Free Range Podcasting.

  • Episode 5 - Matt Huntington, the Flying Anchors and World Record Challenges

    Episode 5 - Matt Huntington, the Flying Anchors and World Record Challenges

    · Friends of ANCHOR

    Mike interviews Matt Huntington about his fundraising endeavours, recalls the efforts of the Flying Anchors and suggests some World Record options for anyone up for a challenge!

    The following points are among those covered in this episode:

    Erica Banks, Communications Lead for Friends of ANCHOR, talks about a number of Christmas-related initiatives, including a new option to provide a supportive gift for someone undergoing treatment at this time. A great selection of Christmas gifts (including Christmas Eve box fillers containing reindeer food and a magic Santa key!) is available for purchase from the online Friends of ANCHOR Christmas Shop. Erica concludes by talking about a statistical analysis of all of the charity’s expenditure since it began 25 years ago that is currently being put together to highlight everything that has been achieved through the generosity and efforts of its supporters. [00:49]Mike interviews Matt Huntington who raised over ÂŁ34,000 for Friends of ANCHOR by running at least 10K every day of 2021 in memory of his sister Kathy, who sadly died of triple negative breast cancer in 2018. As well as recalling special events - including running his first marathon with his daughter, Amy - Matt talks about the amazing support that he received and provides some thoughts on what can make a fundraising initiative really take off. [04:00]This month’s ‘From the Archives’ segment again features a 1999 news article, this time describing how the Flying Anchors, a group of four nurses and a friend, decided to leap into the unknown by taking on a parachute jump with the aim of raising ÂŁ7,000 for a special bed designed for cancer care. [18:45]In the ‘Finding the Words’ section of this episode, Mike and Alison reflect on telling friends and colleagues about Mike’s cancer diagnosis, describing the range of different responses that Alison received when sharing that news. [20:16]Inspired by Matt Huntington’s running exploits and the Guinness World Records website, Mike uses the ‘And Finally’ slot to provide some suggestions for any listeners who have been prompted by Matt’s remarks to consider taking on an unusual and demanding fundraising challenge! [26:43]Suggestions or feedback about the podcast can be sent to [email protected], and you can sign up to receive news and updates using the link below. In next month’s episode, we will hear more from John Greensmyth, our guest in Episode 3, this time including his reflections on taking part in Brave, the very special fashion show that Friends of ANCHOR puts on annually. [30:08]

    This show has been brought to you by Free Range Podcasting.

    We would love to keep in touch with you, so please click on this link to sign up to receive news and updates about the Friends of ANCHOR podcast.

  • Episode 4 - Louise Budge, Telling the Children and ‘Stepmom’

    Episode 4 - Louise Budge, Telling the Children and ‘Stepmom’

    · Friends of ANCHOR

    Mike interviews Louise Budge about the new ANCHOR Centre, reflects with his wife, Alison, on telling their children about his cancer diagnosis and shares some thoughts about the 1998 film ‘Stepmom’.

    The following points are among those covered in this episode:

    Erica Banks, Communications Lead for Friends of ANCHOR, provides an update on news and events, beginning by talking about the recent ‘Supporter Thank You’ event. Erica then goes on to highlight a number of current Wellbeing initiatives, including a Patient Retreat Day on 14 January 2023 (email [email protected] to register), a new Listening Service and a Radiotherapy Treatment Patient Pack. Erica concludes by highlighting the fact that the online Friends of ANCHOR Christmas Shop can meet all of your Christmas shopping needs! [00:39]Mike interviews Louise Budge, the Service and Commissioning Project Manager for the Baird and ANCHOR Project. As well as explaining her liaison role on the ANCHOR Centre Project, Louise talks about the contribution being made by Friends of ANCHOR and outlines some key dates in the build-up to the opening of the new facility in September 2023. Louise also mentions that short ‘One Year to Go’ videos by staff on what the new centre means to them can be viewed at https://www.facebook.com/bairdANCHOR [05:59]This month’s ‘From the Archives’ segment features the 1999 fundraising efforts of British Regional Airlines staff who undertook a challenge to visit every airport in Britain using any type of transport
 apart from aircraft! The methods of transport employed included a skateboard, penny farthings, a fire engine, camels, a Viking ship and a hospital trolley propelled by Dr Andrew Hutcheon! [22:16]In the ‘Finding the Words’ section of this episode, Mike and Alison reflect on sharing Mike’s cancer diagnosis with their children. [24:13]The ‘And Finally!’ item comprises seven facts and observations about the 1998 film, ‘Stepmom’, starring Susan Sarandon and Julia Roberts. [30:23]Suggestions or feedback about the podcast can be sent to [email protected], and Mike’s guest in the next episode will be an inspirational fundraiser: marathon man, Matt Huntington. [32:34]

    This show has been brought to you by Free Range Podcasting.

  • Episode 3 - John Greensmyth, Consultant Conversations and Aberdeen’s MRI Legacy

    Episode 3 - John Greensmyth, Consultant Conversations and Aberdeen’s MRI Legacy

    · Friends of ANCHOR

    Mike Elder interviews John Greensmyth, a ‘cancer veteran’, reflects with his wife, Alison, on the brain freeze that can happen during consultations with medical staff and explores the amazing contribution made to the development of MRI scanners by an Aberdeen University research team.

    Among the points of interest covered in this episode are the following:

    Erica Banks, Communications Lead for Friends of ANCHOR, provides an update on news and events, beginning by talking about the ‘Supporter Thank You’ event on Friday 7 October.  In addition, Erica draws attention to various fundraising events that are happening during October, including the Aberdeen Dance Proms that are taking place on Wednesday 5 and Thursday 6 October. [00:59]Mike interviews John Greensmyth, who recently took part in Brave, a fashion show featuring men from the local area who have had to deal with a cancer or haematology diagnosis. John talks about living with cancer for over thirty years and how that ‘roller coaster’ ride has affected him and his family. He also describes some ways in which the Brave models supported each other and concludes by highlighting the importance of research and of treating each patient, first and foremost, as a person. (NB An extended version of John’s interview will be released as a bonus episode in due course.)[05:25]In this month’s foray into the Friends of ANCHOR archives, Mike shares some news stories about various fundraising activities that took place in 1997. Among the items mentioned is a barbecue, dance and raffle which put Tullynessle on the map and the initiative taken by 91 year old Effie Watson, whose ‘goal’ was to ‘kick off’ an auction for the charity by donating a football, signed by the Aberdeen FC squad, which she had won in a raffle. [20:22]In the ‘Finding the Words’ section of this episode, Mike and Alison recall the meeting at which the consultant explained Mike’s cancer diagnosis. Despite their best efforts, much of that meeting passed as a blur, so it was extremely helpful that Alison had prepared some questions and then wrote down key points covered in the meeting. [23:44]In the ‘And Finally’ section, Mike highlights the fantastic contribution made to cancer diagnosis and analysis by the work of Aberdeen University scientists, who carried out the world’s first Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) body scan, thanks to their breakthrough development of spin-warp imaging techniques. [27:48]Suggestions or feedback about the podcast can be sent to [email protected], and Mike’s guest in the next episode will be Louise Budge, the Service and Commissioning Project Manager for The ANCHOR Centre, which is currently under construction at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary. [31:04]

    This show has been brought to you by Free Range Podcasting.

  • Episode 2 - Erica Banks, Good Pirates and 'Mental Cell Lymphoma'

    Episode 2 - Erica Banks, Good Pirates and 'Mental Cell Lymphoma'

    · Friends of ANCHOR

    Mike Elder interviews Erica Banks, Communications Lead for Friends of ANCHOR, reviews some news items about the charity from August 1997 and reflects with his wife, Alison, on how significant words and descriptions can be when responding to a cancer diagnosis.

    NB Episodes of this podcast will normally be released on the first of each month, but this episode is being released mid-month as part of the launch arrangements for the show.

    The following points are among those covered in this episode:

    Prior to her interview, Erica provides information about recent and upcoming events, including the Runway Run, the annual Golf Gala Day and the Buchan Bridal Bash. Erica also puts out a warm, general invitation to attend the Friends of ANCHOR Open Day / ‘Thank You’ event that is happening at the Institute of Medical Sciences, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, on Friday 7 October 2022 from 1pm – 4pm. [01:01]Mike interviews Erica about her role at Friends of ANCHOR and what she finds most inspiring about the charity. [07:43]In the ‘From the Archives’ feature, Mike shares various stories about the charity that appeared in August 1997 in the local newspaper, ‘The Press and Journal’. As well as covering a hospital visit by some ‘good pirates’ and the footballing fundraising efforts of Fraserburgh fishermen and their wives, Mike provides an explanation of a ‘buttery morning’ in case some of our listeners are not familiar with the local baked ‘delicacy’ known as the Aberdeen buttery or rowie! [17:36]In the ‘Finding the Words’ section of this episode, Mike and Alison reflect on the idea of ‘What’s in a Name’, especially in connection with the use of the word, ‘cancer’. They also consider how the words and descriptions that we use in response to being diagnosed with a serious illness can make a difference to how we feel about the situation and how we interact with others, with ‘mental cell lymphoma’ being provided as an example of this! [21:09]The ‘And Finally!’ item explores the attitudes of early medical figures such as Hippocrates to blood conditions, based on their belief that blood was one of the four essential elements, or ‘humours’, of human life. As a result, bloodletting became common medical practice for centuries, with the eventual result that it became not uncommon for a ‘Bleeding Room’ to be a standard facility within a hospital! [27:24]Suggestions or feedback about the podcast can be sent to [email protected], and Mike’s guest in the next episode will be John Greensmyth, who recently took part in Brave, the inspirational fashion show that has become a great favourite in the calendar of events organised annually by Friends of ANCHOR. [29:12)

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  • Episode 1 - Sarah-Jane Hogg, 'Finding the Words' and the 'Fire Drill'!

    Episode 1 - Sarah-Jane Hogg, 'Finding the Words' and the 'Fire Drill'!

    · Friends of ANCHOR

    In this first episode of the Friends of ANCHOR podcast, the host of the show, Mike Elder, interviews the charity’s Fundraising Director, Sarah-Jane Hogg, and introduces the various sections that will be regular elements of the show.

    Some key points of interest in the episode include the following:

    The show begins with a News and Update section in which Erica Banks (Communications Lead at Friends of ANCHOR) and Sarah-Jane provide information about forthcoming events, including the Runway Run, a Charity Ball hosted by VT Wealth and the Loch Ness Marathon. [01:17]Mike interviews Sarah-Jane Hogg about her long association with Friends of ANCHOR and what the charity means to her. [04:39]Friends of ANCHOR is currently celebrating twenty-five years of supporting haematology and cancer care in the North and North-east of Scotland, so Mike highlights various articles from the local newspaper, ‘The Press and Journal’, which appeared in 1997, the charity’s first year of operation. As well as mentioning a number of early fundraising initiatives in support of the charity, this ‘From the Archives’ feature notes that one of the ground-breaking items of equipment was described in terms that very much belonged to the twentieth century when it was reported that it looked like a “portable cassette player”! [17:08]Mike and his wife, Alison, introduce the ‘Finding the Words’ segment, the aim of which is to provide an opportunity to explore some of the issues that are thrown up when we have to try to find the words and language to think, and speak, about serious illnesses in a meaningful and helpful manner.[21:45]This week’s ‘And Finally!’ item draws attention to the first documented case of cancer and expresses relief that medical treatment has come a long way since the ancient Egyptians used the ‘fire drill’ to treat breast cancer! [28:22]

    Please get in touch with any suggestions or feedback about the podcast by emailing [email protected]. Shows will appear monthly, with various bonus episodes also being published from time to time. Erica Banks, the Communications Lead of Friends of ANCHOR, will be Mike’s interview guest for Episode 2. [29:38]

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  • Arriving Soon: The ‘Friends of ANCHOR’ Podcast!

    Arriving Soon: The ‘Friends of ANCHOR’ Podcast!

    · Friends of ANCHOR

    Friends of ANCHOR Podcast Host, Mike Elder, introduces the show, explaining that it will be keeping listeners up to date with the inspirational work of the Friends of ANCHOR charity and everything that it is doing to support cancer and haematology care in the North-east of Scotland.

    In addition, Erica Banks and Sarah-Jane Hogg of Friends of ANCHOR share their hopes and aspirations for the podcast.

    Episodes will be published monthly, and we are very much looking forward to engaging with our listeners, who can get in touch with us via email at [email protected]

    The first episode of the Friends of ANCHOR Podcast will be released on Thursday 1 September 2022.

    This show has been brought to you by Free Range Podcasting.