Iain Ward, known worldwide as The King of Chemo, is an extraordinary motivational speaker whose story embodies courage, authenticity, and humour in the face of unimaginable adversity. Diagnosed with terminal brain cancer in his early thirties, Iain refused to let the disease dictate his destiny. Instead, he chose to fight back by transforming his diagnosis into a mission that now inspires millions across the globe. With a unique blend of raw honesty and dark wit, he shares his journey to break the world record for the most money ever raised through marathon running. His message of resilience and hope resonates with audiences everywhere, encouraging them to confront life’s toughest challenges with strength and purpose.
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, living a healthy and active life with no symptoms. What began as a simple act of curiosity turned into a life-changing moment when his diagnosis was confirmed as Stage 3 brain cancer. Following awake brain surgery shortly after his 31st birthday, Iain made a life-altering decision: instead of retreating into despair, he would dedicate his remaining years to making a difference. Determined to leave a legacy of hope, he began his mission to raise record-breaking sums for cancer charities through endurance events.
Since then, Iain’s accomplishments have captured hearts and headlines across the world. He has spoken at the World Cancer Congress, completed multiple international marathons, and achieved the Great World Race – seven marathons across seven continents in seven days. Supported by major sponsors such as MyProtein and VivoBarefoot, his online community has grown to millions, with over six million followers on Instagram and five million on TikTok. His efforts have earned recognition from global organisations, including the American Cancer Society, which established a dedicated donation page in his honour. Media appearances on CNN, Ireland AM, Tamron Hall, and numerous high-profile podcasts have further cemented his reputation as a figure of hope and inspiration.
Audiences book Iain because his message is as real as it gets. Every word he delivers is backed by lived experience, unwavering positivity, and humour that cuts through fear. His talks, especially his TEDx Talk 'Uneasy Lies The Head That Wears A Crown', on resilience, mental health, and facing adversity, are both moving and empowering, reminding people that we are not defined by what happens to us, but by how we respond. Iain Ward doesn’t just speak about courage – he embodies it, proving that even in life’s darkest moments, purpose and passion can light the way forward.
