Life, Cancer, Etc.: Recent Episodes
Heidi Bragg
This is not your mom's support group. Dealing with hard things -- like cancer -- sucks. We use humor (and snark, let's be real) to face the bad, see the good, and find some hope along the way. You CAN do this. My conversations with friends and experts will give you tips and tricks to make the process a little easier, or at least show you that you're not alone. About me? I'm a 3-time cancer survivor (colon, cardiac sarcoma, & urothelial) who's constantly dealing with the uncertainty and monitoring that comes along with that. Maybe I'm not going through exactly what you are, but I get how being diagnosed with cancer can be a visceral punch in the gut. However, there is good that can come out of this experience and you don't have to do this by yourself. NOTE: I am not a medical professional. Everyone on the "Life, Cancer, Etc." podcast is sharing their own experiences, not giving medical advice.
Recently, I was a guest on "The Strong Sunflower" podcast (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-strong-sunflowers/id1548796820). I had a great time talking with Zana and Gisselle. They're both strong, kind women who are working to improve themselves and the world at large. Thanks for the opportunity, Z & G!
NOTE: I am not a medical professional. Everyone on the "Life, Cancer, Etc." podcast is sharing their own experiences, not giving medical advice.
You can see this interview on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NMX5Cdv3MYs&t=8s
PC: The Strong Sunflowers
Keywords: cancer diagnosis, building to bloom, dealing with cancer
You can also find some episodes on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/LifeCancerEtc
Our neighbor, Tom Fitzgerald, was diagnosed with lymphoma 17 years ago. Today, he tells us about what that was like and what life's been like since. We're so glad he's healthy and that he and his wife live in our neighborhood.
NOTE: I am not a medical professional. Everyone on the "Life, Cancer, Etc." podcast is sharing their own experiences, not giving medical advice.
PC: Tom Fitzgerald
Keywords: lymphoma, cancer diagnosis, lymphoma diagnosis, life after lymphoma, Oregon, Ford Mustang
You can also find some episodes on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/LifeCancerEtc
Bethann and Shawn Rapp shared their story about Bethann's lung cancer diagnosis last season. (You can find that conversation here: https://www.lifecanceretc.com/podcast/episode/4875ebeb/nonsmokers-get-lung-cancer-too-with-bethann-and-shawn-rapp). In this episode, they talk about how they're dealing with a recurrence, and I really appreciate them sharing how they're working through this experience.
NOTE: I am not a medical professional. Everyone on the "Life, Cancer, Etc." podcast is sharing their own experiences, not giving medical advice.
PC: Shawn & Bethann Rapp
Keywords: lung cancer, spouse with lung cancer, chemo for lung cancer, radiation for lung cancer, parenting a special-needs child during cancer treatment, recurrence, lung cancer recurrence
I've known Camilla Ball since she was 14 years old. Her mom, Valéria, died of brain cancer when Camilla was in college. In our conversation, Camilla shares a very honest, unflinching look at that time, at herself, and at how much she's learned from the experience.
Here's a link to the article she references about rings and boundaries when supporting someone with cancer: https://www.latimes.com/opinion/op-ed/la-xpm-2013-apr-07-la-oe-0407-silk-ring-theory-20130407-story.html
You can also listen to this episode -- and many others -- on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts.
NOTE: I am not a medical professional. Everyone on the "Life, Cancer, Etc." podcast is sharing their own experiences, not giving medical advice.
All content © 2022 Heidi Bragg and Life, Cancer, Etc. All rights reserved.
Keywords: losing a parent, death of a parent from cancer, parent with brain cancer
Getting decent sleep can be difficult, at best, after cancer -- especially after chemo. Here are some suggestions for strategies and products that have helped me get better sleep.
Tadin Passionflower Tea: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00FFQWBLA/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Yogi Bedtime Tea: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07YGN1KLN/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Rootcha Magnesium & Zinc: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B076G5LXQR?ref=nb_sb_ss_w_as-reorder-t1_ypp_rep_k0_1_7&&crid=31DAJ16SWSKF0&&sprefix=rootcha
L-Tryptophan: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B077TYN4G5/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Citrical Petites: https://www.amazon.com/Citracal-Petites-Calcium-Citrate-Vitamin/dp/B07RCJY6WD/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=1PM54U7F5ZKIC&keywords=citracal+petites&qid=1656337695&rdc=1&s=hpc&sprefix=citrical+petites%2Chpc%2C126&sr=1-1-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUEzTDIyVzFBOU1USUowJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwNTAwMDIzMTYzQzNWRVQ5VkUyTSZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwMjk1OTg2M0xPMjdQVkkyMTJMJndpZGdldE5hbWU9c3BfYXRmJmFjdGlvbj1jbGlja1JlZGlyZWN0JmRvTm90TG9nQ2xpY2s9dHJ1ZQ==
Perfect Aminos: https://prz.io/pEQLRpEtO
Feather the Owl Diffuser: https://www.myyl.com/heidi.bragg
Cedarwood essential oil: https://www.myyl.com/heidi.bragg
Valor essential oil: https://www.myyl.com/heidi.bragg
*** You can also listen to this episode -- and 30 others -- on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts or on our website, here: https://www.lifecanceretc.com/.
NOTE: I am not a medical professional. Everyone on the "Life, Cancer, Etc." podcast is sharing their own experiences, not giving medical advice.
All content © 2022 Heidi Bragg and Life, Cancer, Etc. All rights reserved.
Keywords: chemo, sleep after chemo, chemotherapy, cancer and sleep
NOTE: You can see the video from this interview on our YouTube channel, here. Many thanks to Courtney and Riley at #AmbitionStrikes for their encouragement to make the jump to YouTube!
Olivia Luginski was my social worker at Moffitt Cancer Center after I was diagnosed with a cardiac sarcoma. Olivia helped guide us through the process of getting help and offers advice for anyone -- patient or caregiver -- who's dealing with a cancer diagnosis. Plus, she's a delightful human being.
To review the resource list Olivia mentioned, submit a request on our website's contact page and we'll email you the 9-page document.
For more information about Imerman Angels' peer-matching service for patients and caregivers, visit www.imermanangels.org.
To contact Moffitt Cancer Center, visit www.moffitt.org.
NOTE: I am not a medical professional. Everyone on the "Life, Cancer, Etc." podcast is sharing their own experiences, not giving medical advice.
All content © 2022 Heidi Bragg and Life, Cancer, Etc. All rights reserved.
Here's where my head -- and heart -- are these days. Getting through cancer is not a one-shot deal; you've got to deal with the aftermath, too, and figure out what you want the future to look like.
Also, we're adding video interviews to our YouTube Channel starting in June! I think I was a little afraid to announce this because it meant I had to commit and I'm so out of my depth -- it's exhilarating and terrifying, all at the same time. But taking those leaps are how we grow, right? So I'm heading into the unknown and excited to see where this path leads.
NOTE: I am not a medical professional. Everyone on the "Life, Cancer, Etc." podcast is sharing their own experiences, not giving medical advice.
Photo and content © 2022 Heidi Bragg and Life, Cancer, Etc.
CONTENT WARNING We speak very graphically and specifically about breast cancer surgery, so please use headphones if you're around kiddos.
My sister Kate had breast cancer surgery last week. She thought it was important to share what it's like in the "limbo" after treatment so that others know what to expect and feel less alone. I love how honest and real Kate is and appreciate her willingness to be open and vulnerable.
Link to Kate's first episode: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1468990/episodes/9867650
NOTE: I am not a medical professional. Everyone on the "Life, Cancer, Etc." podcast is sharing their own experiences, not giving medical advice.
Photo © 2022 Kate Jensen
Keywords: breast cancer, invasive ductile carcinoma, breast cancer surgery, lumpectomy, breast cancer surgery recovery, breast reconstruction, breast lift after cancer surgery, mom with breast cancer, parenting with breast cancer
Dr. Debbie Egbert is an anesthesiologist in practice in Oregon. Debbie is a wealth of information and has an obvious passion for serving her patients. Side note: she's also a fabulous gardener and cook! In this episode, we talk about what anesthesia is and how it works.
NOTE: I am not a medical professional. Everyone on the "Life, Cancer, Etc." podcast is sharing their own experiences, not giving medical advice.
Photo © 2021 Dr. Debbie Egbert
Keywords: questions about anesthesia, types of anesthesia, anesthesiologist
My sister, Kate, was diagnosed with invasive ductile carcinoma at the end of September. She's currently in the middle of chemo, awaiting surgery and radiation, and talks with us about what life's like right now for her, her husband, and their six kids.
Kate did a follow-up episode right after breast-cancer surgery. You can find it here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1468990/episodes/10278542-graphic-content-advisory-right-after-breast-cancer-surgery-with-kate
NOTE: I am not a medical professional. Everyone on the "Life, Cancer, Etc." podcast is sharing their own experiences, not giving medical advice.
Photo © 2021 Kate JP
Keywords: breast cancer, invasive ductile carcinoma, breast cancer prognosis, chemo for breast cancer, mom with breast cancer, parenting with breast cancer, working during cancer treatment, breast cancer diagnosis
Life changes are hard and the last few months have been, too. Here's what I've been doing and why I've needed to take a step back.
NOTE: I am not a medical professional. Everyone on the "Life, Cancer, Etc." podcast is sharing their own experiences, not giving medical advice.
Photo © 2021 Heidi Bragg
Keywords: self-care, saying no is okay, reasonable expectations, setting good boundaries
Bethann Rapp is a nonsmoker, so getting diagnosed with lung cancer at age 50 was a shock. In this episode, she and her husband (and my friend), Shawn, talk about their experiences and how the last year has gone. They also have a son with special needs, so that's required some careful maneuvering throughout Bethann's treatment.
NOTE: I am not a medical professional. Everyone on the "Life, Cancer, Etc." podcast is sharing their own experiences, not giving medical advice.
PC: Shawn & Bethann Rapp
Keywords: lung cancer, spouse with lung cancer, chemo for lung cancer, radiation for lung cancer, parenting a special-needs child during cancer treatment
CONTENT WARNING: There's a minor swear in this and we use terms like "breast" and "boob," so please use headphones if you're listening around kiddos.
Tiffany Goulding and Lauren Bales were on the podcast back in January, while Tiff was in the middle of treatment for breast cancer (listen to Season 1, Episode 9 to hear that interview). Now, they're back to talk about how Tiff is doing, things they've experienced and learned over the past 8 months, and future plans. They're delightful, as always, and I love talking with them.
Link to their first episode: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1468990/episodes/7104451
NOTE: I am not a medical professional. Everyone on the "Life, Cancer, Etc." podcast is sharing their own experiences, not giving medical advice.
PC: Tiff & Lauren
Keywords: breast cancer, friend with breast cancer, loved one with breast cancer, supporting a breast cancer patient, fears about breast cancer, working with breast cancer, working during cancer treatment
Dr. Phil Spiess is a great guy and so easy to talk with. He's a genitourinary oncologist and assistant chief of surgical services at Moffitt Cancer Center and a full professor of oncology and urology at the University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine. He's also researching Lynch Syndrome, which I have, and helping doctors around the world develop protocols for people with rare cancers. Our conversation ranges from travel goals to why second opinions are important. Take a listen.
To find out more about Dr. Spiess and his work, visit https://moffitt.org/providers/philippe-spiess/
NOTE: I am not a medical professional. Everyone on the "Life, Cancer, Etc." podcast is sharing their own experiences, not giving medical advice.
Keywords: Lynch Syndrome, genitourinary cancer, urothelial carcinoma, Moffitt Cancer Center
PC: moffitt.org
Dr. Andrew Brohl is a medical oncologist and physician-scientist. One of his specialties is sarcoma, which is how I got to know him (my second cancer was a cardiac sarcoma). He's been instrumental in my treatment and I'm incredibly grateful for his help and expertise. Plus, he's just good people.
Use this link find more info about Dr. Brohl and Moffitt Cancer Center: https://moffitt.org/providers/andrew-brohl/
Keywords: sarcoma, cardiac sarcoma, atrial sarcoma, sarcoma research
NOTE: I am not a medical professional. Everyone on the "Life, Cancer, Etc." podcast is sharing their own experiences, not giving medical advice.
PC: moffitt.org
As promised, we are back from our summer break and ready to tackle another difficult topic.
These past couple of years have been traumatic for so many of us. What does trauma look like, both in our brains and in our bodies? What's the difference between "big T trauma" and "little t trauma"? Sharon Dunbar, LSCW -- who's awesome, BTW -- helps us unpack these questions and more about trauma and how to cope with it.
Here's a link for the mental health resource information mentioned in the podcast: https://www.211.org/get-help/mental-health
And here's the link to Sharon's first episode about anxiety: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1468990/episodes/7980835
NOTE: I am not a medical professional. Everyone on the "Life, Cancer, Etc." podcast is sharing their own experiences, not giving medical advice.
PC: Sharon Dunbar
Keywords: trauma, trauma from cancer, big T trauma, little t trauma, COVID trauma, trauma resources, coping with trauma
Jean Pressley Whittaker is a realtor par excellence and an all-around lovely human being. In this episode, she describes how she and her late husband chose to spend their time after his terminal cancer diagnosis. Her perspective is incredibly helpful and very insightful.
NOTE: I am not a medical professional. Everyone on the "Life, Cancer, Etc." podcast is sharing their own experiences, not giving medical advice.
Photo courtesy Jean Pressley Whittaker (https://www.jeanpressleywhittaker.com/)
Keywords: kidney cancer, terminal cancer diagnosis, end-of-life planning, best life with cancer, spouse with terminal cancer, kidney cancer recurrence, cancer recurrence
Our daughter, Téa, is a fabulous person who's been through a lot. Though she's grown up now, she shares her perspective as a child who had to deal with my multiple cancer diagnoses. Seeing things through her eyes can help you support other kids who are going through the same thing.
NOTE: I am not a medical professional. Everyone on the "Life, Cancer, Etc." podcast is sharing their own experiences, not giving medical advice.
Photo © 2019 Heidi Bragg
If you're dealing with cancer, you'll likely get a PET scan at some point. It shouldn't be scary, but we often fear the unknown. For me, getting PET scans is painless; it just takes time. In this episode, we walk through a basic outline of what a PET scan is and how the process works. You can find more info on Moffitt Cancer Center's website: https://moffitt.org/diagnostic-services/radiology-diagnostic-imaging-and-interventional-radiology/services-and-locations/pet-scans/
NOTE: I am not a medical professional. Everyone on the "Life, Cancer, Etc." podcast is sharing their own experiences, not giving medical advice.
Photo © 2019 Heidi Bragg
Angela's a great friend and, technically, the boss of me. She's been a support person for numerous people and helped her mother-in-law as she battled cancer. Her experiences can be helpful for anyone who's a caring for a loved one with a terminal cancer diagnosis.
NOTE: I am not a medical professional. Everyone on the "Life, Cancer, Etc." podcast is sharing their own experiences, not giving medical advice.
Photo © Angela Bounds
My husband, Kevin, is the absolute biggest blessing in my life and my favorite person in the world. In this episode, we get his take on the past 7 years and his advice for anybody going through a traumatic season in life.
NOTE: I am not a medical professional. Everyone on the "Life, Cancer, Etc." podcast is sharing their own experiences, not giving medical advice.
Photo ©2019 Heidi Bragg
Tess Pfohl is an amazing example of resilience, adaptability, and hope. She's a fellow sarcoma survivor who decided -- at age 24 -- to get a lifesaving cancer surgery that she knew would leave her paralyzed. Tess's positive outlook and the frank way she shares her story are pretty awe-inspiring, and we talked for 2 hours! After you listen to our conversation, you can find Push Diaries Podcast and learn more about Tess here: https://www.pushdiariespodcast.com/
NOTE: I am not a medical professional. Everyone on the "Life, Cancer, Etc." podcast is sharing their own experiences, not giving medical advice.
Photo © Tess Pfohl and Push Diaries Podcast
Sharon Dunbar, LCSW, is a therapist in private practice in Florida. In this episode, she answers the questions you submitted about anxiety and offers practical suggestions for those of us who deal with it.
https://www.yourclearview.net/anxiety-and-depression/
NOTE: I am not a medical professional. Everyone on the "Life, Cancer, Etc." podcast is sharing their own experiences, not giving medical advice.
Photo ©2020 Heidi Bragg
Keywords: anxiety, help for anxiety, coping with anxiety, strategies for anxiety, anxiety during cancer treatment, cancer-related anxiety
Starting treatment of any kind can be intimidating. Hopefully, this short essay about one of my radiation treatments will help demystify the process. P.S. I took this photo in the courtyard at Moffit Cancer Center when I was about halfway done with my six weeks of radiation.
NOTE: I am not a medical professional. Everyone on the "Life, Cancer, Etc." podcast is sharing their own experiences, not giving medical advice.
Photo ©2018 Heidi Bragg
Most Sundays, I take a drive along a canal near our house and count the alligators. This week, I recorded the podcast in the car on that drive. I've had a breast biopsy and surgical urothelial check in the past 10 days, so I've been a little wiped out. But these experiences were -- again! -- a great illustration that I need to take my own advice and give my body time to rest & heal.
NOTE: I am not a medical professional. Everyone on the "Life, Cancer, Etc." podcast is sharing their own experiences, not giving medical advice.
Photo ©2021 Heidi Bragg
Dr. Kavita Jackson was diagnosed with breast cancer right after moving her family to a new state and starting her career as an emergency room physician. Her poise, perspective, and positive outlook really inspired me. To keep learn more about her story, check out @drkavitajackson on Instagram. Special thanks to Ash Sivanantham (@ashies07) for introducing us.
NOTE: I am not a medical professional. Everyone on the "Life, Cancer, Etc." podcast is sharing their own experiences, not giving medical advice.
Photo ©2019 Heidi Bragg
Ash Sivanantham was 30 years old when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Her warm personality and zest for life are are both very obvious as she shares her story. Plus, she was gracious enough to re-record our interview after I somehow screwed up the one we did a few weeks ago. Thanks to her Auntie Rajee for suggesting we "meet"!
NOTE: I am not a medical professional. Everyone on the "Life, Cancer, Etc." podcast is sharing their own experiences, not giving medical advice.
PC: Ash
Tiffany Goulding and Lauren Bales are best friends, co-mortgagees, and delightful to interview. A couple of months ago, Tiffany was diagnosed with breast cancer. In today's episode, the two of them talk with me about how things have progressed so far and share what they're learning.
Tiff & Lauren did a follow-up episode, which you can find here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1468990/episodes/9100767
NOTE: I am not a medical professional. Everyone on the "Life, Cancer, Etc." podcast is sharing their own experiences, not giving medical advice.
PC: Tiff & Lauren
Dr. "Arash the Smash" Naghavi is my radiation oncologist at Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa. He specializes in sarcoma and does a lot of research to help advance the field. Most of all, he's a great human being and an excellent teacher.
For more info on Dr. Naghavi or Moffitt, use this link: https://moffitt.org/find-a-doctor-search?program=&cancerType=&clinicalSpecialty=&gender=&q=arash+naghavi
NOTE: I am not a medical professional. Everyone on the "Life, Cancer, Etc." podcast is sharing their own experiences, not giving medical advice.
PC: moffitt.org
Once you've had cancer, you usually have to live with a lot of uncertainty. That bugs the heck out of me, because I like to plan and hate feeling blindsided by unpleasant news.
I've got a PET scan on Monday and there was an "area of concern" on my last PET scan a few months ago. Other recent scans don't show it, but the PET on Monday might indicate a problem and/or the need for another open-heart surgery.
I hate waiting ("Princess Bride," anyone?), but I'm realizing that living with uncertainty is better than dealing with definite bad news. I'm working on doing less pre-stressing and having more joy in the moment. Those are gifts I can give to myself and to everybody around me.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, everybody!
NOTE: I am not a medical professional. Everyone on the "Life, Cancer, Etc." podcast is sharing their own experiences, not giving medical advice.
Photo ©2020 Heidi Bragg
Marie Pearlingi is my friend, almost birthday twin, and massage therapist. Her wife, Cindy Coutts, is an occupational therapist and has had breast cancer twice. In this week's episode, the three of us talk about the process they've been through, how it's affected their lives, and their plans for the future. Take a listen ...
NOTE: I am not a medical professional. Everyone on the "Life, Cancer, Etc." podcast is sharing their own experiences, not giving medical advice.
PC: Marie & Cindy
Lori Thompson (RN, BSN) is MY nurse at Moffitt Cancer Center's radiation oncology department. Earlier in her nursing career, she worked both pediatric and adult hospice. She's a rockstar and has great tips and insights for your cancer journey.
NOTE: I am not a medical professional. Everyone on the "Life, Cancer, Etc." podcast is sharing their own experiences, not giving medical advice.
Photo ©2020 Heidi Bragg
Short podcast today: a bit of specific gratitude, in honor of Thanksgiving, and some of your questions, answers, and tips. Thanks to all those who offered help and input.
NOTE: I am not a medical professional. Everyone on the "Life, Cancer, Etc." podcast is sharing their own experiences, not giving medical advice.
Photo ©2020 Heidi Bragg
Tay Gibson is my sister (in every way but the biological). In this episode, we talk about what happened after her nightmare came true: her son, Quinn, was diagnosed with cancer. Tay epitomizes what it means to be resilient and full of faith, no matter what comes your way. I love her to pieces.
NOTE: I am not a medical professional. Everyone on the "Life, Cancer, Etc." podcast is sharing their own experiences, not giving medical advice.
PC: Dmetria Gibson
Sarah Emprimo Schwartz is one of my favorite people on earth. She's a stellar human being, a fabulous chemo companion, and a friend par excellence. Sarah has great insights and gives great tips about how to support a friend or family member who's dealing with cancer. Plus, she's just a joy to be around.
NOTE: I am not a medical professional. Everyone on the "Life, Cancer, Etc." podcast is sharing their own experiences, not giving medical advice.
PC: Sarah
This is the very first episode of "Life, Cancer, Etc.," where you'll learn a bit about me and my story. I'm a 3-time cancer survivor facing another open-heart surgery to find out if the latest mass in my heart is malignant. BTW, even when things are really hard, I know for a fact that there is always hope and good in the world. Note: I misspoke in the podcast -- it was actually 7 years ago that I was diagnosed with colon cancer (2013). Cardiac sarcoma diagnosis was in 2018, urothelial cancer was diagnosed in 2019. But, hey: for my first podcast, passable (NOT perfection) was the goal!
Moffitt Cancer Center: www.moffitt.org
NOTE: I am not a medical professional. Everyone on the "Life, Cancer, Etc." podcast is sharing their own experiences, not giving medical advice.
Photo ©2020 Heidi Bragg