27/05/2026
British climber and cancer researcher Dr. Shaunna Burke has successfully summited Mount Everest for the second time despite living with incurable stage four breast cancer.
Burke, 50, from Addingham in England, reached the world’s highest summit on Saturday, May 23, nearly two decades after her first Everest ascent in 2005.
She was diagnosed with stage four breast cancer in 2024 and has since undergone a double mastectomy, liver surgery, and radiotherapy. Despite ongoing health challenges, Burke said returning to Everest had been an “incredible experience.”
“I do have some issues with body temperature, with fluctuations, with hot flushes and then also cold sensitivity,” she said during the expedition.
A researcher at the University of Leeds, Burke’s work focuses on exercise, resilience, and quality of life for people living with stage four cancer. She is also a motivational speaker and experienced expedition climber.
Burke used the expedition to raise funds for Macmillan Cancer Support and previously took part in the Everest Marathon last year.
In addition to Everest, she has climbed major peaks including Aconcagua, Mount Elbrus, and Mount Kilimanjaro.
Photo Source: Yahoo News UK
