"The King of Chemo"

"The King of Chemo"
With Iain Ward 

Details:

After receiving a life-shortening prognosis, Iain asked himself one question. What can I achieve in five years? In this inspirational talk, The King of Chemo will reveal what lead him to pursue a charity world record to raise the most amount of money EVER for running a marathon.

Iain Ward, known to millions as ‘The King of Chemo’, is a one-of-a-kind keynote speaker whose message fuses raw honesty, gallows humour, and inspiring determination. A terminal brain cancer diagnosis in his early thirties could have defined his legacy - but instead, Iain chose to fight back with purpose. Now on a mission to break the world record for the most money raised by running a marathon, he has transformed his diagnosis into a global movement. Through his powerful storytelling and relentless optimism, Iain inspires audiences to face adversity head-on, embrace resilience, and act boldly in the face of life’s toughest challenges.

Iain’s journey began in 2019 when he volunteered for a medical trial that unexpectedly revealed a tumour in his brain. At the time, he was a fitness instructor and video game content creator with no symptoms - just a healthy curiosity and a desire to earn a bit of extra money. His world changed after the tumour was confirmed as Stage 3 brain cancer, requiring him to undergo awake brain surgery just after his 31st birthday. Rather than retreat, Iain took the bold step of turning his diagnosis into his life’s purpose, vowing to dedicate his remaining years to something meaningful: record-breaking fundraising for cancer charities.

Since then, Iain’s accomplishments have captured international attention. He has become a headline speaker at the World Cancer Congress, completed multiple global marathons, and completed the Great World Race, a seven marathon stretch across seven continents in only seven days. Backed by major sponsors including MyProtein and VivoBarefoot, Iain’s social media presence has soared, with over 6 million Instagram and 5 million TikTok followers rallying behind his cause. The American Cancer Society has even created a dedicated donation page for his world record attempt - an honour rarely given to individual fundraisers. His bold approach and viral content have earned him appearances on CNN, Ireland AM, Tamron Hall and a guest spot on the Let’s Talk Cancer podcast. Additionally, he has been a frequent feature on many leading podcasts and highly-regarded shows, sharing his experiences and insights with a wider audience across the globe.

Audiences hire Iain because he’s as authentic as they come. His keynote topics - health and wellness, facing adversity, mental health, and fundraising innovation - are grounded in lived experience and delivered with unmatched energy. Iain doesn’t just talk about resilience - he lives it, proving daily that people are not defined by their setbacks but by how they choose to rise. Engaging, inspiring, and unforgettable, Iain is the speaker who reminds us all what it truly means to make every second count.

Venue:
Blue Kitchen Brixton
40 Acre Ln
SW2 5SP

Event Running Time:
(We recommend arriving at 6:30pm if you're eating, and 7pm if drinks only)
Doors from 7pm
Introduction: 7:25pm
Lecture: 7:30pm
Q&A: 8:10pm
Finish: 8:30pm

FAQs:

What is Pints of Knowledge?

Pints of Knowledge is a series of public talks where experts, researchers, and big thinkers share fascinating ideas all in the relaxed setting of a pub. We bring brilliant minds and curious audiences together over a pint, covering topics from science and politics to history, art, and beyond.

What happens at Pints of Knowledge?

At each Pints of Knowledge event, you’ll hear engaging talks (approx. 40 minutes) from expert speakers on fascinating topics — followed by an audience Q&A (approx. 20 minutes). The vibe is informal and social, set in a pub where you can grab a drink, meet interesting people, and enjoy big ideas in a relaxed setting.

What if I don't drink alcohol?

No problem at all! Pints of Knowledge is all about the ideas and the community, not the drinks. You’re welcome to enjoy a soft drink, coffee, or whatever you prefer. The focus is on creating a relaxed, social atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable.

Can I attend without a ticket?

Tickets must be purchased online prior to the event. With our limited capacity at each venue we can't let people in without a ticket. There is occasionally the option to purchase a ticket on the door for our sold-out events, but we cannot guarantee this.

Is there food available?

Yes, there is usually the option to purchase food at our events - please see each venue's menu on their website. If you plan on eating at the venue, we recommend arriving as early as possible so the kitchen can get your order out before the talk starts. In the unlikely event the kitchen isn't open, there will typically be an option to order in food from elsewhere or bring your own food.

Can I get my ticket refunded?

We issue full ticket refunds if you have requested 7 days before the event. Any requests after will be at the discretion of the event organiser.

Can I get my ticket exchanged?

We issue full ticket exchanges if you have requested 48 hours before the event. Any requests after will be at the discretion of the event organiser.

Is the event pet/baby friendly?

Yes, we allow pets and babies to attend but reserve the right to request their removal if they are disruptive.

Is the venue accessible?

All of our venues are accessible, besides the following: The Old Queen's Head, The Landor, The Alma, and The Morpeth Arms.