Thriver Mini Series - 9: Shaunna Burke
Dying to Climb is my quest to return to the summit of Mount Everest while living with Stage 4 breast cancer.
I first stood on top of Everest in 2005. Today, as a researcher in exercise and cancer, I study the very disease that now threatens my own life. A Stage 4 diagnosis changes how you see the world — and what truly matters.
This expedition is more than a climb. It is a scientific mission—and an effort to inspire others to see what may be possible.
By attempting this ascent, I hope to:
*Inspire others facing their own battles, showing that courage and hope can exist even in life’s hardest moments.
*Raise vital funds for Macmillan Cancer Support, whose work has become profoundly personal to me.
*Conduct research to understand how low oxygen levels affect the immune system in cancer.
This climb is not just about reaching a summit — it is about standing for possibility, even in the face of advanced disease.
If you can support this expedition, your donation will help thousands of people living with cancer receive the care and guidance they need.
My journey will also be documented in a feature film, sharing a story of resilience, science, and the drive to keep moving forward despite adversity. You can follow my progress on Instagram or at www.dyingtoclimb.com for more information.
"When the mountain feels too high, remember: you are stronger than you think."
Many thanks,
Shaunna
