
Ep 110: Beyond The Bell - Breast Cancer, Running, and The Journey After Treatment, with Mel Ramsey & Dr. Michelle Quirk
What happens when cancer treatment ends, but the journey to feeling like yourself again is far from over? In this episode of the Mindful Marathon Podcast, I’m joined by my friend Mel Ramsey, a breast cancer survivor and extreme endurance athlete who is speaking openly about life during and after cancer treatment. Mel was diagnosed with breast cancer just weeks before her 46th birthday. An experienced runner and endurance athlete, she remained remarkably active throughout treatment, supported by her medical team and an incredible community of fellow athletes. But after ringing the bell and completing treatment, she faced unexpected challenges, including changes in her strength and endurance, shifts in her identity, and post-treatment PTSD. Together, we talk about the realities of life after cancer treatment, the pressure of comparing yourself to who you were before, and the importance of finding support when your recovery doesn't look the way you expected. Mel also shares how movement, community, cancer support organizations, and advocacy have helped her navigate this next chapter. Her story is a powerful reminder that survivorship is a journey of its own, and that we don't have to navigate difficult seasons alone. In this episode, we discuss: Mel's journey from a non-athlete to a runner and extreme endurance athlete Her breast cancer diagnosis and experience navigating surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation How her athletic community supported her throughout treatment The unexpected physical and emotional challenges that followed treatment Navigating post-treatment PTSD and the struggle to reconnect with your athletic identity Why we need to talk more about life after cancer The role of movement, connection, and community in finding your way forward How to find support for yourself or someone you love who is navigating cancer Resources mentioned in this episode: Breast Cancer Research Foundation: Learn more about breast cancer research and support Mel's ongoing fundraising efforts. https://give.bcrf.org/melspage Cancer Support Community Greater Philadelphia: Learn about free support groups, wellness programs, and resources for people affected by cancer and their families. https://cancersupportphiladelphia.org/ Beat Breast Cancer: Move for A Purpose: A community pop-up event at FDR Park in Philadelphia on October 25, 2026 from 10 a.m. to noon, featuring an awareness walk, an optional boxing class, and guest speakers. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/beat-breast-cancer-move-for-a-purpose-tickets-2000530214725 Connect with Mel: Follow Mel on Instagram for her full cancer journey, including both the hard days and the milestones. https://www.instagram.com/melissarrrrgh/ A reminder from Mel and Michelle: Stay up to date with your recommended health screenings, and talk with your primary care clinician about what is appropriate for you. If you or someone you love is navigating cancer, remember that support is available, and you don't have to go through it alone. Thanks for listening to the Mindful Marathon Podcast. If this episode resonates with you, please share it with someone who might need to hear Mel's story. Keep up with Coach Michelle's adventures over on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Mindful.Marathon *** The information contained in this podcast is intended to serve as educational information and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. You should consult your primary care physician before undertaking any fitness regimen or exercise, which can pose serious health risks if undertaken or performed improperly. All content, including text, graphics, images, and information, contained in the videos is for general information purposes only and does not replace a consultation with your own doctor/advanced practice provider. ***