Why Does the Mother of a Late Cancer Podcast Host Keep Listening to Old Episodes?

The heartfelt legacy of Rachael Bland, the late presenter of the You, Me and the Big C podcast, continues to resonate as her mother, Gayna Hodges, shares her enduring connection through old episodes. Since Rachael's death from triple-negative breast cancer in 2018, Gayna has found solace in listening to the podcast, which Rachael created to openly discuss cancer experiences alongside Dame Deborah James and Lauren Mahon.

Last updated: 04 February 2024 (BST)

What’s happening now

As the world approaches World Cancer Day on 4 February, the enduring impact of Rachael Bland's work is highlighted by her family's continuing engagement with the podcast. Gayna Hodges, Rachael's mother, has spoken candidly about her grief and the importance of keeping Rachael's memory alive through the podcast, which has provided comfort to many listeners facing similar battles with cancer. This year, Rachael's husband, Steve Bland, will host a special episode to honour her legacy and continue the conversation about cancer awareness and support.

Key takeaways

Gayna Hodges regularly listens to the You, Me and the Big C podcast to feel close to her late daughter, Rachael Bland.
Rachael started the podcast following her own cancer diagnosis, aiming to change the conversation around living with cancer.
Steve Bland will host a special episode on World Cancer Day, focusing on the podcast's legacy and its impact on listeners.

Timeline: how we got here

Rachael Bland was diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer in 2016, which spurred her to create the You, Me and the Big C podcast. The timeline of significant milestones includes:

2016: Rachael diagnosed with aggressive breast cancer.
March 2018: The first episode of You, Me and the Big C airs.
September 2018: Rachael passes away at the age of 40.
2022: Dame Deborah James dies, prompting the end of the podcast series.
February 2024: Steve Bland hosts a special episode for World Cancer Day.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

With World Cancer Day approaching, Steve Bland's upcoming podcast episode will pay tribute to Rachael and Deborah, showcasing the podcast’s ongoing impact and the importance of community support in cancer journeys.

What was already established

Rachael Bland’s legacy has been cemented through her work on You, Me and the Big C, a pioneering podcast that openly discusses the realities of living with cancer. The series has resonated widely, providing comfort and connection to many who are affected by the disease.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The podcast has become a vital resource for many families dealing with cancer, providing not only personal stories but also a sense of community and shared experience. Listeners often report feeling less isolated in their struggles, with the podcast normalising conversations around cancer.

Businesses and jobs

The You, Me and the Big C podcast has also influenced businesses and organisations in the health sector, encouraging them to adopt more transparent and open discussions about cancer care and support. This shift is essential in fostering better patient experiences and outcomes.

Policy and regulation

Awareness raised through the podcast may also influence health policy discussions in the UK, particularly around patient support services and funding for cancer research. Initiatives that aim to improve care for cancer patients could gain momentum as public interest grows.

Numbers that matter

105: The total number of episodes recorded for You, Me and the Big C before it concluded.
40: Rachael's age at the time of her passing, highlighting the impact of cancer on younger individuals.
2: The age of Rachael's son, Freddie, at her death, underscoring the personal toll of cancer on families.
Millions: The number of people who have listened to the podcast, showcasing its widespread reach and influence.
1: The goal of the podcast—to help at least one person feel less alone in their cancer journey.

Definitions and jargon buster

Triple-negative breast cancer: A type of breast cancer that lacks three common receptors known to fuel most breast cancer growth.
You, Me and the Big C: A podcast focused on sharing personal experiences and discussions about living with cancer.
Dame Deborah James: A prominent cancer campaigner who raised awareness and funds for cancer research before her passing in 2022.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Listeners should tune in for the special World Cancer Day episode, which will continue to explore the themes of community support and awareness in cancer care.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As conversations around cancer evolve, expect ongoing discussions in various media about the importance of open dialogue and support systems for those affected by cancer.

Signals to watch

Increased public engagement in cancer awareness campaigns and events.
Potential new initiatives from health organisations aimed at improving cancer care.
Further developments in podcasts and media covering personal health experiences.

Practical guidance

Do

Engage with cancer support communities, either online or in-person, to share experiences.
Listen to podcasts like You, Me and the Big C for insights and connection.
Encourage open conversations about cancer in your social circles.

Don’t

Don’t shy away from discussing cancer; it can help reduce stigma and isolation.
Don’t hesitate to seek support if you or someone you know is affected by cancer.
Don’t ignore the impact of grief; it's important to address it positively.

Checklist

Have you listened to the latest episode of You, Me and the Big C?
Do you know someone who might benefit from cancer support resources?
Have you reached out to a support group or community?
Are you familiar with the signs and symptoms of breast cancer?
Have you discussed cancer awareness with family and friends?

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While the podcast has provided substantial support, individual experiences with cancer vary greatly. Listener responses may differ based on personal circumstances, and it is crucial to approach discussions about cancer with sensitivity. Additionally, as the landscape of cancer treatment and support continues to evolve, ongoing research and developments may shift current understandings.

Bottom line

The legacy of Rachael Bland and the You, Me and the Big C podcast continues to inspire and support countless individuals facing cancer. As Rachael’s family keeps her memory alive through ongoing conversations and initiatives, it serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of community and understanding in navigating the challenges of illness.

FAQs

What is You, Me and the Big C podcast about?

You, Me and the Big C is a podcast that shares personal stories and experiences of living with cancer, aiming to create a supportive community for listeners.

How did Rachael Bland contribute to cancer awareness?

Rachael Bland raised awareness about cancer through her podcast, sharing her personal journey and encouraging open discussions about the disease.

What is World Cancer Day?

World Cancer Day, observed on 4 February, is a global event aimed at raising awareness, encouraging prevention, and supporting those affected by cancer.