E207: Emily Spillman - Prehabilitation and Penny Brohn UK Charity
Trigger Warning: this episode discusses cancer, cancer treatment and body image.
Episode 207: Part of the Living With and Beyond Cancer Series (Part 71)
Description: In this powerful episode, Naman Julka-Anderson and Jo McNamara sit down with Emily Spillman.
Emily is the Physical Activity Lead at Penny Brohn UK, where she develops and delivers exercise programmes supporting people living with and beyond cancer. A registered nurse with over a decade of experience across oncology, community, and specialist bladder and bowel care, she has also worked at GenesisCare in Bristol. Emily combines medical expertise with a compassionate, whole-person approach, making movement accessible and empowering for people at every stage of their cancer journey. Alongside her role at Penny Brohn, she runs her own gym and clinic, specialising in women’s health, pelvic health, and strength-based rehabilitation.
This episode Naman Julka-Anderson and Jo McNamara explore Emily’s career to current role, role of exercise for people living with and beyond cancer, and Penny Brohn UK charity.
CPD Reflection Points:
- Why is prehabilitation (“prehab”) important before cancer treatment, and how can it improve a patient’s recovery and wellbeing?
- What are the main parts of prehab, and why is it important that patients complete all aspects rather than just one?
- How can healthcare professionals encourage and support patients to fully engage with prehab before starting cancer treatment?
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Links from the Episode:
- American College of Sports Medicine Guidelines
- Moving Medicine Consultation guide
- Benefits of Physical Activity for Colon Cancer Survivors
- Pelvic, Obstetric and Gynaecological Physiotherapy pelvic floor guide
- Navigating vaginal dryness post-breast cancer
- Penny Brohn UK
Rad Chat Links:
Credits: Music and jingle credits: Dr. Ben Potts and Adam Cooke.
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