The Kirsten Myers Story

How Do I Stay Strong in My Body While Everything is Falling Apart?

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 03:30:00 +1000

In this episode of The Kirsten Myers Story, host Peter Birch is joined by Patrick (Pat) Lynch, physiotherapist and exercise scientist at Be Well. They delve into the critical role that movement, physical therapy, and exercise play in supporting those living with breast cancer.

Pat shares his experience working with Kirsten, exploring how thoughtful and individualised exercise programs can help manage treatment side effects, preserve strength, and maintain independence, even during the most demanding stages of cancer care. Mentioning common challenges like fatigue, muscle weakness, and lymphoedema, and highlights why it’s essential for people with cancer to seek knowledgeable professionals who understand both clinical needs and personal motivations.

Emphasising the need for close collaboration between patients, their healthcare teams, and support networks. Pat provides clear advice on when and how to start exercising after a diagnosis, the importance of medical clearance, working with experienced professionals, and choosing an approach that is realistic and enjoyable.

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How Do I Protect My Mental Health While Fighting for My Life?

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 03:30:00 +1000

In this episode of The Kirsten Myers Story, host Peter Birch is joined by Lesley Stafford, a clinical psychologist with a deep focus on women's cancers and an associate professorship at Melbourne University. Together, they explore the often overlooked yet essential role of mental health in breast cancer care.

Exploring why mental health care is an essential part of cancer treatment, not just an add-on or luxury. Lesley explains the common emotional challenges women face at different stages of diagnosis and treatment, including shock, fear, and grief, as well as the impact on relationships and family dynamics. She shares practical advice for patients, covering what mental health support might look like, how to access services, and tips for making the most of available resources, especially for those outside major metropolitan areas.

Addressing barriers that can discourage women from seeking help, such as feelings of guilt or stigma, and highlights the importance of self-compassion and reaching out. Lesley encourages women to look after themselves, seek trustworthy information, and live in alignment with their values during their treatment journey.

How Do I Nourish My Body So It Can Handle the Treatment?

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 03:30:00 +1000

In this episode of The Kirsten Myers Story, host Peter Birch welcomes Lauren Atkins, a senior oncology dietitian and co-founder of On Core Nutrition. Lauren shares her expertise on the role of nutrition for individuals navigating breast cancer, drawing insights from her personal work supporting Kirsten Myers during her treatment.

You’ll hear an in-depth discussion on how nutritional needs change during cancer treatment, including the impact of food on managing symptoms like nausea, fatigue, appetite changes, and digestive challenges. Lauren Atkins explains why individualised advice is essential, debunking common misconceptions, addressing the risks and benefits of supplements, and highlighting the importance of evidence-based information.

You’ll also discover practical strategies for eating to boost energy, maintain strength, and support recovery, as well as how patients can build a supportive multidisciplinary care team. Lauren shares some advice for those navigating a cancer diagnosis, encouraging patients to build a trusted support team and empowering them to ask for help when needed.

How Do I Make Sure the Treatment Doesn’t Kill Me Before the Cancer Does?

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 03:30:00 +1000

In this episode of The Kirsten Myers Story, host Peter Birch is joined by Tanya Wells, a naturopath and integrative oncology practitioner who worked closely with Kirsten during her breast cancer journey.

Together, they dive into the world of integrative oncology, exploring how evidence-based complementary care can support quality of life for people navigating breast cancer. Tanya shares her experiences supporting Kirsten over more than two years, revealing how integrative approaches can be tailored to individual values and medical circumstances. You'll hear why open communication, careful guidance, and collaboration with the broader medical team are essential, especially when conventional treatments feel overwhelming or rigid.

Discussing common misconceptions around self-prescribing natural medicines, and why working with a qualified practitioner is essential.

Tanya offers insights for anyone considering complementary therapies, emphasising the importance of seeking well-qualified, balanced practitioners, remaining open yet skeptical, and always keeping personal values at the center of decision-making.

How Do I Know I’m Getting the Right Treatment?

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 03:30:00 +1000

In this episode of The Kirsten Myers Story, host Peter Birch is joined by Associate Professor Yoland Antill, a leading medical oncologist and cancer genetics specialist who cared for Kirsten throughout her breast cancer journey.

Through this deep and insightful conversation, listeners will gain a clearer understanding of the complexities involved in choosing the right treatment for breast cancer. Yoland explains how treatment options are tailored to each individual, factoring in cancer subtypes, previous therapies, overall health, and even personal life circumstances. Covering the evolving landscape of targeted therapies and precision medicine, as well as the crucial role clinical trials play in improving outcomes and expanding options for patients.

Practical advice is given on how patients can make the most of their limited time with clinicians, including preparing questions in advance or requesting longer appointments when important decisions are needed. As well as the importance of self-advocacy, clear communication, and seeking support, echoing the example set by Kirsten herself.

Honest Conversations About Kirsten Myers’s Breast Cancer Story

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 03:30:00 +1000

In this first episode of Kirsten Myers story, host Peter Birch sits down with Shane Myers (Kirsten’s husband) and Megan Robb (Kirsten’s cousin and medical power of attorney), to celebrate the extraordinary life and legacy of Kirsten Myers.

Shane and Megan share intimate insights into Kirsten’s journey with breast cancer, focusing on her relentless courage, unwavering independence, and her commitment to research and self-advocacy. Covering the realities of navigating complex medical information, the power and challenges of building a support network from scratch, and how Kirsten faced the shifting landscape of her diagnosis with fierce determination.

Listeners will hear about Kirsten’s desire to empower other women through knowledge and choice, the importance of making medical decisions that align with personal values, and practical advice for families communicating about illness, especially with children.

Megan also offers her unique perspective as both a close family member and a medical professional, providing valuable guidance on choosing medical advocates, making sense of overwhelming health information, and advocating for yourself throughout the journey.

To honour Kirsten’s legacy, Shane and Megan discuss their plans to launch a charity in her name, focused on personalised care and support for women facing breast cancer.