Soar Above Cancer: Recent Episodes
Alex & Gabrielle
Two young adult cancer thrivers Gabrielle and Alex discuss the ins and outs of their journey and experience with the dreaded C word, and why it isn't so dreaded. They interview medical professionals, personalities, and friends to shed light on the topic of cancer. New episodes every Tuesday.
The Soar Above team continues their engaging chat with Michelle Burleigh as she expands on her movement of So You've Got Acute Blood Cancer, her family life and how transformative the cancer journey has been for herself and her kids, and finally what advice she has for all of us going through or living in survivorship of their cancer experience. Michelle brings energy and a spark to the podcast that is always welcome!
Rarely is the Soar Above team so captivated by a cancer thriver's presence and mentality than with Michelle Burleigh. The team met Michelle a few months ago at the YACC Retreat Yourself Conference in Paris, Ontario, and her demeanour and confidence shined. Michelle joins Gabrielle and Alex to share her overwhelming cancer experience, what it's like living with such a rare blood cancer in APL, and how her perspective on her own life, career, family, and self-esteem drastically changed in part 1 of 2 episodes.
Believe it or not, the Soar Above Cancer podcast turned 3 on June 7th, 2020! Gabrielle and Alex reflect on the growth of the podcast as a whole and what has been the most effective change since day 1. The team shares the not-so-efficient moments, how the two as individuals have grown, and what is next! Mindfulness is a big concept at Soar Above, but the team breaks the rules as they discuss the exciting goals and activities planned for the future.
Janelle Lamontagne is a rare gem. She is someone who is extremely aware of her story, and takes ownership of it, but still gives all of herself when listening to others share their experience. It was a pleasure chatting with Janelle about her diagnosis, the important she places on brain tumour awareness, and her exciting career as a speech pathologist and how her cancer journey affected that. Were grateful to see both her calculating and funny side!
In an unprecedented move, Young Adult Cancer Canada held it's first all-virtual Survivor Conference in May of 2020! Gabrielle and Alex were heavily involved with hosting sessions and social activities throughout the conference, and the ever exciting talent show! Our host's share the highlights of the weekend, what it was like to play an important role for the execution of the conference, and what this means for the future of the cancer community. Could we see virtual programming soar to new heights?
Have you ever met someone who you click with almost instantly? That is how the SAC team feels about Harman Dhindsa. Harman first interacted with Alex through the YACC Survivor Conference in 2019, and his broad, intellectual perspective on meditation, positive mindset, and what the most important aspects of life are, is inspirational and educational. Harman defines what happiness means to him, and his diagnosis in high school brings with it a new experience to the podcast.
Following up on the Soar Above teams chat with Karine Chalifour, the Balls of Sh*t theory is broken down more to discuss the practical applications of the theory, how it can be applied outside of a cancer journey, and what one can do to project the theory with physical objects. Most importantly, the cancer journey is not just about the thriver, and the conversation steers towards caregivers, health professionals and society's role in this theory.
The concept you never knew you needed. YACC Program Director Karine Chalifour shares the concept of the Balls of Sht theory: where it came from, what it consists of, the different components of the theory, and the main themes that are associated with your balls of sht. This first of two part episodes sheds the light on a concept that is so relevant and applicable to anyone going through a struggle of any kind, and is a stepping stone for big things to come.
Talk about hot out of the gates! Gabrielle and Alex met Mike Wark only earlier this year, but he's taken the Young Adult Cancer Canada, as well as the broader cancer community by storm. Mike shares his thoughts and feelings from beginning of diagnosis to survivorship. He discusses his relationship with his wife, the importance and mental health and communication, and some of the extracurricular activities he's created for thrivers.
Gabrielle and Alex have known Paul Silvestri for over a year now, and he is hands down one of the most present, methodical, and genuine people in the cancer community. Paul shares an extensive look into his cancer story, his career and how he navigated teaching through his diagnosis, and how music has played a key role in his life and continued suvrivorship. Boy can he hit the keys!
Andrea Whittle is an inspiration in ways that are not often discussed when it comes to a cancer journey. The fellow YACCtivist shares her time with the Soar Above team, and talks about her mentality towards cancer and how much it has changed over the past 2 years, he relationship with her son and navigating sharing her struggles, and the activities she participates in to clear her mind shine a light on her future.
It's truly a pleasure anytime the Soar Above team gets an opportunity to talk to Dani Taylor, even if it's for a 5 minute chat about our futures. Even better in this circumstance, Gabrielle and Alex had the chance to interview Dani and learn about her narrative and how often it can change depending on the day or what goes on around her. Dani stresses the importance of self-reflection, and dives into her role within the YACCtivist movement and why it was important to her to play a key role in reviving the program.
Ashley Morine truly embodies the term "unique" in more ways than one. The teams' fellow YACCtivist colleague joins the podcast to share her rare diagnosis of Ocular Melanoma, and the adjustments she had to make for treatment. More interestingly, Ashley moved to Inuvik, Northwest Territories and shares the historic culture and enjoyment she feels living in such a distinct area of the Great White North. A fascinating chat that is one for the ages.
A rare occasion where Gabrielle and Alex actually meet in person took place with YACC's Retreat Yourself Ontario. This experience took place a few days prior to the Western's absorption of the COVID-19 pandemic quarantine protocol, and 30 plus individuals got to share in harmony in their own personal bubble. The team breaks down the entire weekend, and how powerful and meaningful it was to both of them in their own profound ways.
Gabrielle had the well-appreciated opportunity to interview Truitt Taylor for a second time, and the conversation was just as engaging and stock full of knowledge than the teams first chat. Truitt, host of the One Percent Podcast, shares a wonderful story about meeting his wife, meeting the cancer community, and the 4 personality types you will encounter when sharing a story. An interview that can easily be played more than once.
Humour and cancer can walk a fine line, but Justin Birckbichler seems to balance it to a tee. Justin joins the team for the second time to discuss in depth his brand of A Ballsy Sense of Tumour, a comprehensive guide of what it's like to go through chemotherapy as a young adult. How, if at all has Justin's writing or perspective changed over the years, and does his humour and mentality carry into his personal life. A lot of knowledge and power is found in Justin and this interview.
It's always a pleasure to talk with someone who represents that same goals and vision as you do, while doing it on a different platform. Mags Bujalski joins to Soar Above team to talk about learning about her cancer diagnosis, why she chose to share her story through her Youtube channel, and what she likes to listen to podcasts and new content wise. A high-energy, and brave soul makes a deep impact with the team.
Gabrielle and Alex return to a friend of the show that truly inspired the initial growth of Soar Above by becoming one of the first interview guests a few years back, Joe Bakhmoutski. A fellow podcast host himself (Simplify Cancer), Joe dives into his family life during and after cancer, the growth of his podcast and some tips on hosting your own medium, and why authenticity is the world's greatest currency.
To kick off the new storytelling series, our team interviews long-time friend of the show, Kayla Tremblett, to take a deep dive into her cancer experience, and to gain some knowledge about her passions and mentality. Kayla shares the importance of allowing your emotions to shine through, how she felt empowered by speaking within a few peer facilitation roles with YACC and other mediums, and what is next for this vibrant lady.
And the growth continues! Our team introduces the new journey they are embarking on in a new theme of "Learning From Our Storytelling". This episode details the goals for this concept, what our team has learned thus far, and how other podcasters, guests, and industries have influenced their focus on Soar Above. A new chapter lies ahead!
As we've learned so often, sometimes uncomfortable conversations have to be had to make a difference. In our case, the concept of infertility and sex as a cancer thriver can be awkward, but the SAC team breaks their silence. They recap previous discussions on intimacy, relationships, and fertility and why it is so important to bring these topics to light.
It was a pleasure having long-time friend of the podcast Blair Richardson on to discuss relationships and how they are affected by cancer. A heavy proponent is focused on romantic relationships. Blair shares his positive and negative experiences, and ultimately how he learned to navigate relationships by truly learning who he was.
The team interviews Dr. Jeff Roberts from Fertile Future, an entity that strives to promote the understanding of fertility preservation amongst men and women. Dr. Roberts dives into the barriers to fertility preservation, recommendations to take action when newly diagnosed, and how crucial the awareness piece is.
Gabrielle sits down with Leslie Schover from Will2Love to discuss this organizations approach to provide the tools, information, and resources to health organizations to support patients with sexual and infertility disadvantages. Leslie shares the mission of Will2Love, what thrivers must know, and the resources available to address these concepts.
Gabrielle and Alex have come along way since joining each other in 2018, and they have grown as much as the show has! 2020 brings with it new life and new discussions, and the duo sets the tone for personal and professional goals this year. A quick look back at 2019 sets the standard for more to come.
Every cancer journey is different, and every thriver therefore battles their own experience from different perspectives. But if there's a set of questions that every single one of us as been asked at least once, you'll find them here. How do we answer those common questions from the general public?
It really is up to us to dictate what works best for our bodies in regards to healing and wellness. Our hosts discuss the topic of holistic healing with their friend Kayla Tremblett. The topics of alternative versus complimentary therapies are approached, and what overall are cancer treatment plans missing?
There are a number of side effects that gauge their way into a cancer thivers life, and of course we may not be initially prepated to manage them. A pertinent example is the panic attack. What are the signs, symptoms and triggers, and what steps do you take if you feel the onset of one? Furthermore, how can this knowledge help you, help others?
This cannot be stressed enough: you are the cancer thriver, and you need to fight for what's best for you! What is self-advocacy in the medical world of AYA cancer, and why is it so important? Our hosts explain the educational guide and examples of gaining control, and as a plus how this can affect your life outside of cancer.
Alex has the chance to interview Alison Silberman, CEO of Stupid Cancer, a U.S. organization with a mission to reduct isolation and build community among young adults living with cancer. Alison describes her role and goals of Stupid Cancer, the world of young adults that needs to change, and how to get involved!
Sharing stories, opinions, and news has never been easier in the landscape we inhabit. There are so many mediums to create cancer content in a positive way, but how does one structure their outline? Our team discusses the importance of preparation, knowing your audience, and fine-tuning a piece of work.
Grit doesn't even begin to describe this individual, as our hosts interview Sunday Burquest, breast cancer thriver, mother, and former Survivor contestant. Sunday is incredibly strong, describes her motivations and what drives her, and what the true meaning of GRIT actually is.
Our hosts interview Marley Cameron, one of the most genuine, passionate, and strong individuals our duo has ever met. Marley shares her open heart, how cancer affected her relationships, created isolation, and finally the resiliency that the cancer community has instilled in her.
Recently, the team hosted an episode focused on the forgotten generation of AYA cancer thrivers. Now that you are equipped with the problem, how can you invent the solution. How do we reflect these issues on our health care professionals? More importantly, how important is it to advocate for yourself in the health system.
Today's interview is one that is long and overdue. Gabrielle and Alex interview Supreme Commander of Young Adult Cancer Canada, Geoff Eaton. Geoff shares his cancer journey, what inspired him to form YACC and the goals he had setting out, and the future of this organization. Goosebumps already.
We get it, cancer is difficult at any age. Yet somehow, there seems to be a population of individuals who don't seem to receive as much funding, resources, or support. SAC discusses AYA's with cancer, the barriers they face compared to other cohorts, and what next steps for support are needed.
A big question that fills the mind of cancer thrivers throughout their treatment is....what's next? It is completely okay, and in most cases pertinent to dream BIG! We all deserve it. When is a good time to dream big, and put our plan into action? Is there such thing as too big of a dream, or is there a case made for just starting somewhere?
Close your eyes, thinking of mindfulness. What do you see? Probably someone laying down and meditating. However, there are many invigorating and vibrant movement practices that incorporate mindfulness, and can be accessed easily. Listen to our hosts break these concepts down.
Now that you have familiarized yourself with mindfulness, let's chat with her fraternal twin sister meditation. What is meditation in relation to mindfulness, and how can one incorporate it into a daily practice. It's not as easy as one may think, and our hosts share their initial difficulties and funny moments.
Gabrielle chats 1-on-1 with Genevieve Stonebridge, a counsellor and advocate of mindfulness with Inspire Health. Genevieve is a inspiring herself, and shines a bright light on simple and beneficial practices to mindfulness, it's importance as a thriver, and how to push past the beginner barriers.
How has it taken so long to discuss the concept of mindfulness and meditation? With such a recent popularity boost and research being put forward, practicing mindfulness provides several benefits for cancer thrivers. Our hosts discuss it's practice and how to overcome barriers to become successfully mindful on a daily basis.
You've learned about the concept of a thriver, and how powerful this title is; but how do you know if you are one? Quite frankly, it isn't hard to tell, and chances are, all you need to transition is a momentum shift. How can you recognize this in yourself, and how do you take the first step?
A fellow YACCtivist joins this week's episode, as Mandy Lamothe takes the spotlight and shares her experience through cancer and some of the role models and inspiring individuals around her that provided guidance. Mandy is always a welcoming and friendly thriver, and she shares her big plans for the future!
Let's wrap up our brief series on "Meet Your Podcasters" by diving into the journey and personality of the creator of Soar Above, Gabrielle Fecteau. Hodgkins Lymphoma thriver, vibrant and resilient, and lover of Brene Brown!
You here your hosts every week, and little by little they reveal a bit about themselves, but why don't we take a deep dive into who delivers you this content every week. Meeting Alex Mandarino, ALL thriver, lover of sports, and positivity enthusiast.
A special word defines the uniqueness of SAC, and that word is thriver. What defines the essence of a thriver, and why does the team prefer to use this over any other definition? There is a strong sense of strength in using a word that isn't technically a word, but it's what you make of it.
An extension of Gabrielle's blog post, the team discusses happiness in a very unique way. It's almost impossible to lock down a true objective definition of being happy, but the Scandinavian concepts for happiness are truly blissful and pose a need for discussion.
A ground-breaking episode, Soar Above Cancer takes a look at it's roots and what it means to host in such a powerful medium. Where is Soar Above looking to take it's influence, Gabrielle and Alex discuss the new vision and mission, and lay the groundwork for an exciting future.
Matthew Newman is a charismatic cancer thriver who is extremely eager to share the concepts of family and support, the relationship conceived with cancer, and survivorship. Our hosts take a deep dive into his book "Starting At The Finish Line", and how to move forward.
Your hosts finally meet in person for the first time! This past weekend help the Young Adult Cancer Survivor Conference in St. Catharines, Ontario. Alex and Gabrielle share their experience in embracing the environment, their favourite workshops, and their first ever collaborative speech.
Stefan is an incredibly involved advocate and participant in the Leukemia & Lymphona Society of Canada's peer support program. He discusses his role, the importance of proactively reaching out for support, and what you can learn by just conversing with someone in similar shoes
There is a legitimate case to be made in taking extra precaution when experiencing abnormal symptoms as a cancer thriver, and it's another thing to constantly be worried. What is health anxiety, and what impact does it have at different cancer stages on the thriver and those around them?
Part 2 of SAC's interview with Truitt Taylor expands on the mind-body-spirit connection, as well as which pillars of the theory transitioned throughout your experience. The episode finishes off discussing the One Percent Podcast, and the topic of sharing the story publicly.
Today's episode features Truitt Taylor, founder of the One Percent Podcast. He talks about his personal cancer experience, how to deal with grief and how to align this with cancer experience, and we dive into the profound theory of the mind-body-spirit connection.
The Spoon Theory is a staple for anyone living with physical or mental illness, or struggles of any kind. Our hosts discuss this theory in depth and how it affects cancer thrivers. How does one manage their day with only a finite amount of spoons?
Our virtual world has given us cancer thrivers the ability to connect at all times, especially through messages or private online groups. What is the best way to navigate these groups? What etiquette is necessary, and how beneficial can they be for mental well-being?
Our team interviews Kayla Tremblett, a blogger, Youtuber, and friend of the duo to discuss her's and Gabrielle's role as peer supporters within the Young Adult Cancer Cancer Retreat Yourself Ontario. Kayla shares her learning experience, and how empowering it was to truly support others.
Gabrielle and Alex interview Joe Bakhmoutski, a fellow podcaster focusing on the world of cancer called Simplify Cancer. Joe discusses his cancer experience, focusing on the things you care about, his family, and the world of podcasting (please share all your tips Joe!)
Cancer thrivers develop wisdom without even knowing it, bug that doesn't mean everyone should know it. Gabrielle and Alex describe scenarios involving the right and wrong time to give advice to other thrivers, and better ways to pick up cues on when to listen and what to share.
There's most likely been plenty of opportunities to fine-tune your story when sharing it with those around you, but what about sharing it with other cancer thrivers. What factors need to be considered? Our hosts discuss advice on how to develop an engaging and capturing cancer story.
The second half of Thomas Cantley's discussion with the SAC crew follows his creation of the Mr. Ballsy comic book and how that came about, and where the overall impact and outreach lies. He discusses his son, his elevator pitch for self-awareness and where he plans to expand from here.
Thomas Cantley, a.k.a. Mr. Ballsy joins to the duo to discuss his alter ego and how his knack and passion for testicular cancer and self-checking awareness came about. Why Mr. Ballsy, and how has this persona and vision grown since it's inception?
Appointments, check-ups, blood tests, and then results! The wait times throughout this experience can be torture, especially without anything to keep you occupied. How can you affectively manage time and what practices or activities allow you to finally allow time to fly by.
Although short, every cancer thriver has a journey and is affected all the same. Sam Taylor joins Gabrielle & Alex to share her thoughts and mindset on cancer regardless of length of treatment, survivor's guilt, and the very real truth that all cancer thrivers are strong at heart.
Our hosts interview musician Paul Brace, and he discusses his cancer experience and how it intertwined in his writing and performing. Paul tells us about his new relationship with music, and explains his latest project 'Liars and Actors'.
As 2018 comes to an end, our team reflects on the partnership that has been created and the new direction and focus for 2019: Connection. Opening the SAC doors to interviews and guests in the cancer community that will bring a wealth of knowledge and bundle of inspiration.
Everyone has a favourite holiday. How does this same holiday feel whilst undergoing cancer treatment, or recovering from it? Gabrielle and Alex share personal holiday experiences of when they were feeling emotionally and physically unwell, and how they managed the holidays.
The holidays are a time for celebration and family, but it can also be a time to remember those lost and can pose a significant moment for grieving. Grief is normal and should be honoured, but how does it incorporate itself into the lives of a cancer thriver, especially during happy times.
Now that we discuss the idea of a powerful question, how do we utilize them to our advantage? Is there a way to train your brain to come up with questions at the right times? Finally, our hosts discuss the phenomenon of most of the answers from powerful questions spurring more questioning!
Cancer thrivers sometimes have more questions than a curious child, and for good reason! How do we distinguish a good question from one we should avoid asking? When should we ask questions, and when we do how do you put together a powerful question?
Young adults experience very different realities and circumstances than other groups going through cancer, so shouldn't our methods of care be customized to address those? Our hosts discuss the young adult oncology care model, and what it could mean to our demographic.
It's common to hide the real and harsh reality that we cancer thrivers deal with every day. This is because a lot of society won't understand, and it's exhausting to make it clear. Is this a good thing, or can it be harmful?
Yes moustaches are involved, but at the very core Movember is about starting a discussion regarding health. Men's health is the forefront of the movement, but the mentality women take about being an open book about their health and well-being should be included and addressed in this conversation.
Cancer offers up an opportunity to explore causes bigger than oneself to fundraise on behalf. How does one choose a cause, and what steps are necessary to implement your efforts once the cause has been chosen? Our hosts also discuss their personal fundraising efforts.
Fundraising is an inevitable branch that stems for activism, but in that same vein it is a fragile branch. How does one fundraise throughout cancer to convey the right message? How can you minimize guilt while fundraising for yourself post-treatment.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, which means a very recognizable shade of pink will sprinkle it's way across society. Is this "Pink Phenomenon". as it's caused now overblown by marketing teams to take advantage of the cause? How can we fix this?
If there is one positive about your cancer diagnosis, it's that it completely changed your self-identity. Now the question becomes, was it for the better. Our hosts discuss their transformation, and whether they prefer themselves now compared to pre-diagnosis.
Take one step into an oncology ward and it's abundantly clear that the nurses are not only important, but absolutely essential to a cancer thrivers development. Coordinators, emotional supporters, advocators, they provide everything under the sun.
Gabrielle and Alex are most familiar with hematology as their cancers derive from it, but should this designation be so paramount when designing cancer centres? The idea of less separation to reduce isolation amongst all cancer thrivers is discussed.
Hindsight is 20/20, but regardless of that it's good to know of procedures for detecting cancer earlier or promoting prevention. These facts can be passed along to others, touching on the advocacy piece, or tools to keep in mind if thoughts of relapse enter our heads.
It's not uncommon for cancer thrivers to get the itch to advocate for the cancer community, but how do we go about raising awareness when there is so little known to the outside world. The difficulties of advocacy and what issues to navigate are dicussed.
This episode gets right into the meat and potatoes of a cancer experience: treatment. Every treatment is unique, but every one causes varying degrees of physical, social, and emotional damage. What advice do our hosts have about trekking through treatments.
The start of a school year sparks new beginnings and a slew of opportunities to reinvent yourself. When is the right time for students to go back to school after a cancer diagnosis, and what can we learn by strapping on the backpack again?
Do you every walk into a room and forget why you intended to enter it in the first place? Welcome to almost every day as a cancer thriver. What is this phenomenon we in our community call 'brain fog' and what are ways we can combat it?
And a happy birthday to you. Do our special days have the same glow and sparkle as they did prior to cancer? How can we celebrate our birthdays through treatment and still enjoy every moment?
We can access information in an instant through social media, but is that a good thing? More importantly, how does social media affect your emotional well-being, especially throughout treatment? Our two hosts discussing varying degrees of online use and how it affected them.
Your mindset is your strongest guide through the toughest times. Sometimes you have an upbeat mentality, and sometimes getting out of bed is a struggle. That is healthy. Healthy thinking is being mindful of your reality and being able to process it rationally.
There are few experiences in life that create a continuous bond that holds a group together forever. Retreat Yourself through Young Adult Cancer Canada is certainly one of them, and Gabrielle shares her experience attending an retreat in Ontario.
It's easy for your mind to wander with all of the overwhelming stimuli surrounding you throughout your journey. Sometimes you can't even think straight. We give you some tips and information involving keeping your mind clear and active.
How can you turn your cancer journey into something that inspires others, or defines you as a pillar of strength? We share some tools and concepts to think about when building a foundation to set your legacy as a cancer thriver.
The most important, and sometimes the most active time in a cancer experience, it's time to gear up properly to visit the doctor. Each appointment you have, ranging from a check-up to surgery, is unique. Learn how to get in the drivers seat and go into each one ready.
Although receiving the news that you have cancer can be a shock to the system, eventually you are left to pick up the pieces after everything sets in. We describe the concept of patient activation, and how important it is to take an active role in ensuring your health is put first.
Alex discusses his experience at the 2018 YACC Survivor Conference in St. John's. This is a must attend event for those newly diagnosed or post treatment. Tune in to hear how much can actually be jam packed into an incredible and insightful 4 days.
Gabrielle takes a deep dive into what she has learned about herself and her cancer experience since creating SAC. From friends and family to next steps, this will show some insight into the creators mind.
Everyone has someone they look up to for advice, and the cancer world is no different. We discuss what qualities make a great cancer mentor, and how to manage your efforts if you want to become one yourself!
So you've created a narrative, you've set the tone, you've stepped up to the proverbial podium...where do you go from here? How one deliver's and carries themselves is extremely important, and is telling of how they live their life.
How do you create a story around yourself, especially one where you find yourself in your darkest hours? Gabrielle and Alex discuss tips to develop a narrative and fine-tune it to create the values that you want to share.
Everyone is defined in some way or another, and how that translates to those around is us through our own narratives. Each one of us has one. AS it relates to cancer, everyone handled it differently, and no one story is the same. What is a narrative and why is it important?
Medical vs. battle vs. empowerment terms, they are all different and everyone chooses to self-identify with their own lingo. Why do we use survivor or patient, and what words do the duo prefer? Hint: we begin our descent of the word THRIVER!
Gabrielle and Alex have not experienced the closeness of mortality, but the topic is surfaced as discussions of death and mortality are introduced. How does one react when this is brought about? Survivors guilt, what is it and how does it affect the mind?
Cancer can be a long and strenuous process, but it can also feel like a blur! How much of our cancer memories did we actually retain, and how much of it did we actually want to remember? We discuss ways to increase mental retention while staving off brain fog.
Gabrielle & Alex share different experiences and, therefore, different opinions about follow-up care with oncologists. What should you absolutely take advantage of, and what do we think is acceptable to compromise?
Kids tell it like it is, and normally they don't allow petty things to bother them. Cancer thrivers can really learn a lot about how to interact and react through treatment. We also dive into living with cancer with kids, and how to navigate.
We debunk some of the highly common rumours or negative beliefs that surround cancer, and explain the toll it takes on us as thrivers. How can we combat these misconceptions? The answer is understanding what is true.
Cancer is a world-wide topic, and therefore leaks it's way into the entertainment industry in the form of films. We discuss how accurate these films are in depicting a typical cancer life, and what is missing. What are the best cancer related movies?
Cancer Statistics create a polarizing effect amongst the thrivers who hear them, and really how much of these numbers are relevant? Gabrielle and Alex walk through what statistics stuck with them and what they allowed to float past their realm of conscious.
Once the initial shock and emotion of hearing "You have cancer" wears off, how do you go about telling those around you? The duo discusses thei methods of sharing and what tools and mindsets to utilize when providing details to new and old groups.
In the first episode where both Gabrielle and Alex meet to discuss their experience, they discuss the balance between maintaining a social and physical life that is far distant from the one they live through cancer. Is it possible to totally break away from that side of yourself?