IKCA’S interview with Luke Grenfell

Luke Grenfell ended 2021 with a visit to Shaukat Khanum Hospital, on the Pakistan leg of his Bristol to Beijing cycle. We spoke to him about his journey so far and his personal fight with cancer.

In 2018, at age 24, Luke was diagnosed with stage four cancer. But he didn’t let this stop him from living fully. Today Luke is helping to rewrite the narrative of what is possible with a cancer diagnosis. A motivational speaker, cyclist and canliver, Luke is pushing on with his 30,000 km cycle from Bristol to Beijing; crossing 30 countries on three wheels, and where possible, cycling with others like him.

What was the hardest part of your journey?

Physically, riding down (up) the KKH was very tiring. Although we started at 4,700m at the Khunjerab pass, we still ended up climbing 9,000m to Islamabad. Constantly uphill, downhill. 

What was your favourite country to cycle through?

Azerbaijan was the country that held the most surprises: beautiful landscape, rich culture, wonderfully friendly people, interesting history.

Where did you eat the best food?

I’m vegetarian so Turkey’s food hit the spot. They can do so many incredible things with eggs.

What was your fondest memory of cycling through Pakistan?

Meeting an Ismaili family in the village of Khyber and finding out about five and seven-star apples – the crispest I’d ever tasted. We also chatted about their and our family values, which was very interesting – both have strengths and weaknesses. 

You’ve visited Shaukat Khanum Hospital in Lahore, what were your impressions?

It struck me as a highly professional and well-run hospital that aims to prioritise patients for maximum benefit. The medical and administrative staff seemed to care deeply about the hospital. I was amazed that it’s still supported by donations alone. 

Which cancer charities are you raising money for and why did you choose them?

5K Your Way, Trekstock, Teenage Cancer Trust, and Young Lives vs Cancer. The first two because they help CanLivers through exercise. The last two because they particularly helped me during treatment. 

What treatment have you undergone so far and is it still ongoing?

Chemotherapy, surgery and radiotherapy. I am currently in remission but have scans. 

Do you feel that the exercise and active lifestyle help make your symptoms more manageable?

Absolutely. Exercise and being active are hugely beneficial in keeping your body stronger and more resilient to chemotherapy. It also boosts your mood and allows you to take control of your situation. 

The side-effects of chemotherapy alone can leave many cancer patients very weak, yet here you are on a bike, cycling the world. How do you do it?

I’ve been fortunate to get through my treatment as well as I have. But the most important thing in my mind is to work out what you can do in the situation you find yourself in, even if that’s just walking up and down the corridor a few times. It all helps. 

Have you discovered any alternative/supplementary remedies/activities which have helped with your symptoms?

Being as active as possible, and I recommend a low sugar and white carb, high fruit and veg diet.

You’ve said you’re trying to make the most of your time because you’re living from scan to scan. That is a powerful message, especially in these times when the pandemic has isolated people and divided Societies. As a ‘canliver’, what is your advice to people? 

Don’t wait to live your dreams for another year, month or day. Make small changes today to take your life in the direction you want; and larger changes over time. Work out what you can’t control in your situation (e.g. having cancer, paying the rent) and then focus on what you can – that might just be taking 5 minutes to read a book in the morning, or it could be taking the steps to move to a career you find more rewarding. There are always things we can do ourselves to improve our own lives.

If Luke’s inspired you to take charge of your life and do more today, head on over to our Challenges & Events page. We’ve got a whole host of things you can take part in, ranging from exciting, overseas treks in Pakistan to online fitness classes in the comfort of your home. Browse IKCA’s 2022 challenges here.

 

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