Every Mile Matters: Triumph Over Cancer with Dr. Jeffrey Reynolds - Episode 125

In this incredibly powerful and moving episode of the Caregiver Relief Podcast, host Diane Carbo sits down with Dr. Jeffrey Reynolds, a social entrepreneur, Ironman triathlete, and two-time cancer survivor. Dr. Reynolds shares the profound story behind his new memoir, Every Mile Matters: How Triathlon Trained Me for Triumph Over Cancer.

From the shock of receiving two different cancer diagnoses in two years (prostate and colorectal) to applying the mental grit of an endurance athlete to his treatment, this conversation is a masterclass in resilience, hope, and the power of the human spirit. Dr. Reynolds' journey teaches us how to find strength in our darkest moments and why every single day is a gift. 🎁

Ready for a dose of pure inspiration? You don't want to miss this

What You'll Discover in This Episode:

This conversation is packed with wisdom and raw honesty. Here’s a peek at what you'll learn:

• From Helper to Patient: Dr. Reynolds shares his experience of spending 35 years in the helping profession, only to suddenly find himself on the receiving end of care and the profound lessons he learned about trust and vulnerability.
• A Midlife Crisis Triathlon: Hear the hilarious and inspiring story of how a 2:00 AM decision at a conference led him to the starting line of a 5K, and eventually, the finish line of a full Ironman triathlon.
• The Unthinkable Diagnosis: Dr. Reynolds recounts the moment he was diagnosed with "clinically significant prostate cancer" on April Fool's Day, followed by a second diagnosis of stage 3B colorectal cancer, all while having zero symptoms.
• Training for Treatment: He draws powerful parallels between the discipline of training for a race and the grueling cycles of chemotherapy and radiation, explaining how an athlete's mindset—"you just keep going"—helped him endure treatment.
• The Power of Raw Honesty: Learn why Dr. Reynolds chose to be unfiltered about his journey, aiming to destigmatize embarrassing cancers and encourage men to take their health seriously.
• Redefining Success: He discusses the emotional shift from chasing personal records in marathons to celebrating the victory of a clear scan, and the "scanxiety" that comes every three months.
• A Message of Hope & Gratitude: Dr. Reynolds shares beautiful insights on human connection, learning to accept help, and the importance of doing the things you've always wanted to do now.

Memorable Quotes from Dr. Reynolds:

"I did Iron Man Florida with cancer. I can do cancer without doing an Ironman. And so I do hard things. I can do this."

"Worrying isn't going to change the outcome, if anything. Worrying isn't that great for your health, right? It takes stress, right? Put stress on your body. And so you know that scanxiety is very real."

"All those things that you said you'd get to someday—do 'em, because you never know."

"Never say to somebody, 'Call me if you need anything.' We will never call. I promise you. I know you'd like to help, then just do it."

Connect with Our Guest

This episode will leave you feeling stronger and more grateful. Be sure to support Dr. Reynolds by checking out his work:

• Read the Book: Find Every Mile Matters on Amazon,Barnes and Noble, and wherever books are sold.
• Visit His Website: EveryMileMatters.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DO-Ivtajbx-/

Thank you for tuning in, and remember to be gentle with yourself. You are worth it! ❤️