When swimming becomes a breast cancer lifeline - with Dr Mei-Ling Lancashire
In Episode 2 of In At The Deep End, Salim is joined by Dr Mei-Ling Lancashire - GP, cancer survivor, single mum and swimmer. At the peak of her fitness, Mei-Ling discovered a breast lump and, as a GP with a background in breast cancer research, knew instantly what it meant. What followed was an aggressive diagnosis, gruelling chemotherapy, a double mastectomy and the challenge of holding everything together for her two young daughters.
Swimming became her lifeline. From a childhood passion, cut short by societal misconceptions, to a primal fear of deep water and, eventually, open-water sessions at Shepperton Lake, her relationship with the water has been anything but simple. And that's exactly what makes her story so powerful.
Key themes in this episode:
- Childhood swimming talent ended by 1980s attitudes towards women athletes
- Breast cancer diagnosis at peak fitness, and the shock of knowing immediately what it was
- Staying active through chemotherapy and surgery as a single parent
- Fundraising for Cancer Research UK and becoming the face of a national campaign
- Overcoming a deep-rooted fear of open water
- Nerve damage from surgery and chemo, and learning to reconnect with key swimming muscles
- The role of Pilates in unlocking a better swim stroke
- Swimming as the last sport standing when injury takes everything else away
- What it truly means to thrive, not just survive
Useful Links
Swimming & Open Water
- Shepperton Lake — open-water venue mentioned in the episode
- Hampton Pool — where Mei-Ling rediscovered swimming during the pandemic
- Swim Serpentine — open-water event completed during her recovery
Swim with Salim
Cancer Awareness
- Cancer Research UK — the charity Mei-Ling has fundraised for throughout her recovery
- Breast Cancer Now — helpline: 0808 800 6000
Dr Mei-Ling Lancashire
- Follow Mei-Ling on Instagram
- Donate to Dr Mei Ling's Cancer Research UK fundraising page here: https://fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org/unite/mei-lings-giving-page
Be a part of the show: Here's how to get in touch...
- Email us: inatthedeependpod@gmail.com
- Use the get in touch form HERE - https://inatthedeepend.transistor.fm/be-a-part-of-the-show
- Send us a voice message HERE- https://www.speakpipe.com/InAtTheDeepEnd
Produced by The Good Studio - thegoodstudio.co.uk
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