Diagnosed with incurable cancer, researcher and mountaineer Dr. Shaunna Burke is preparing to return to Mount Everest in 2026 — documenting her journey in the independent film Dying to Climb.
This story isn’t about defying illness; it’s about redefining what life looks like when you live alongside it.
[ About ]
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A researcher at the University of Leeds, Shaunna’s work focuses on exercise, resilience, and quality of life for people living with cancer.
She’s also a motivational speaker and expedition climber — first summiting Everest in 2005.
Today, she merges science and experience to show that life doesn’t end with diagnosis; it evolves.
An Everest Expedition by Shaunna Burke
In Spring 2026, I will return to the Himalayas to climb Mount Everest, while continuing to raise vital funds in support of the charity Macmillan.
Her History with Mount Everest
From the Discovery Channel archives — Shaunna Burke’s first Everest story. The next chapter begins in 2026.
Corporate Sponsorship Invitation
We’re inviting select partners to join the Dying to Climb expedition and documentary as corporate sponsors — organizations that share our belief in the power of human resilience, science, and storytelling.
Your sponsorship directly supports the 2026 Everest expedition, production of the Dying to Climb documentary, and global outreach to inspire people living with chronic illness.
As a valued partner, your company logo will appear in the film credits, on expedition gear, and across campaign materials and press releases. Sponsors will also receive behind-the-scenes updates, co-branding opportunities, and early access to the film premiere.
Together, we can elevate a story that transcends mountains — one that shows what it means to keep moving, no matter the climb.
Thank you to our current sponsors!
Press & Media
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Following Shaunna’s completion of the Everest marathon, Dying to Climb has already caught the attention of major outlets for its extraordinary message — that movement, mindset, and meaning can redefine how we live with illness.
Explore recent coverage, interviews, and press resources below, and follow along as the next chapter of this story unfolds toward Everest 2026.
[ ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ]