Cancer Patient Conquers Everest Twice

Dr. Shaunna Burke, an exercise psychologist at the University of Leeds, has successfully summited Mount Everest for a second time, expressing immense joy at the accomplishment. Diagnosed with stage four breast cancer in 2024, Burke has undergone extensive treatment including surgery and radiotherapy. She previously reached the Everest summit in 2005 and found the experience of doing so again on Saturday to be incredibly rewarding.

Burke, 50, described the recent climb as "gruelling and taxing," noting changes in how the mountain is climbed, including increased crowding. She emphasized the strategic planning required, beyond physical and psychological preparation, to secure the optimal weather window for success. She is also raising funds for Macmillan Cancer Support and previously participated in the Everest Marathon. Her other mountaineering achievements include climbs in Argentina, Russia, and Africa.

During the ascent, Burke experienced significant difficulties with the cold temperatures at night, which she believes may be exacerbated by her cancer medications affecting her body temperature regulation. Her preparation involved extensive research, including utilizing a high-altitude chamber at Leeds Beckett University to acclimate to the conditions. This climb was partly motivated by her research into the effects of high altitude on cancer markers and her body's adaptation to chemotherapy treatments.