Breast Cancer Conversations: Recent Episodes

SurvivingBreastCancer.org

Breast Cancer Conversations is a podcast produced by Survivingbreastcancer.org where we inject positivity into the very fabric of a breast cancer diagnosis. Breast Cancer Conversations provides education, and inspiration, and offers hope. You will hear stories from those diagnosed with breast cancer, interviews with medical professionals, and thought-leadership emerging from the oncology field. Welcome to our breast cancer community! Welcome to the conversation.

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What does life really look like five—or even ten—years after a metastatic breast cancer diagnosis?

For many people, the initial diagnosis is filled with uncertainty, fear, and countless unanswered questions. But thanks to advances in treatment, more people are living longer with metastatic breast cancer than ever before, and with that comes an important conversation about what it means to continue living while navigating an incurable disease.

In this episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, host Laura Carfang is joined by Paula Bouckhuyt and Teresa Noah, two women who share their personal experiences living with metastatic breast cancer for more than five years.

Together, they discuss how life has evolved since diagnosis, the realities of long-term treatment, scan anxiety, relationships, work, disability, palliative care, and finding hope in the midst of uncertainty.

In this episode, we discuss:

What it's like living with metastatic breast cancer for five and ten years
How treatment routines become part of everyday life
Scan anxiety and coping with uncertainty
The emotional impact of long-term survivorship with MBC
Living with oral therapies like Xeloda and Ibrance
How relationships change after an MBC diagnosis
Why support groups can make a profound difference
The role of palliative care in improving quality of life
Mental health, resilience, and asking for help
Advice for those newly diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer

This episode reminds us that while every metastatic breast cancer journey is different, there is no single way to live with this disease. Through honest conversation, Paula and Teresa offer hope, perspective, and practical wisdom for anyone navigating life with MBC.

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If this episode resonated with you, we invite you to leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

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Somewhere between the diagnosis and the last appointment, most of us stopped breathing all the way down. Not on purpose. The body braces, the jaw clenches, the shoulders come up — and then treatment ends, everyone tells you congratulations, and nobody mentions that your nervous system never got the memo that the emergency is over.

In this episode, host Laura Carfang sits down with Brett Aldrich — Ayurvedic health counselor, breathwork facilitator, and former social services practitioner specializing in trauma awareness and domestic violence — for a conversation about what it takes to feel safe in your body again after cancer treatment.

Brett talks about the five elements of Ayurveda not as a rulebook but as a way of reading yourself: what you need today may not be what you needed yesterday, and women in particular are changing constantly. She's candid that she doesn't practice it perfectly, that she still drinks coffee, and that "one thing can change everything" — because the alternative, a total lifestyle overhaul on top of everything else you're carrying, is a plan nobody can keep.

Laura brings the questions our community actually asks: what do you do when your digestion has been wrecked by treatment? When your estrogen has been deliberately taken to zero and you're grieving what that costs your bones and your brain? When you're the busy mom with pickup and drop-off and aging parents and a job, and a seven-day retreat is a fantasy? And what about all the supplements on social media promising to cleanse and fix you?

Then the conversation turns to breath — and this is the part worth staying for. Brett explains the mechanics plainly: how a full diaphragmatic breath moves the diaphragm against the organs, how the vagus nerve connects the throat to the heart, lungs, and gut, and why the felt sense of safety is the precondition for everything else. When the body feels safe, there's space to heal.

About the guest:

Brett Aldrich is an Ayurvedic health counselor and breathwork practitioner and facilitator based in Maine. Her background is in yoga and in social services, where she worked in trauma awareness and domestic violence support before moving into holistic and Ayurvedic care. She works with clients in person and virtually through her practice, Seed the Spirit (seedthespirit.com).

Disclosure: Brett offers consultations through her private practice, including a free 20-minute introductory call. SurvivingBreastCancer.org received no payment for this episode.

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If this episode resonated with you, we invite you to leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

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When you're living with breast cancer, the medical team treats the cancer — but who takes care of everything else? The fear that won't quiet down at 2 a.m. The diarrhea you're not sure is "bad enough" to call about. The FMLA paperwork, the school pickup, the light bill, the strange grief that shows up right when everyone expects you to feel grateful.

In this episode, host Laura Carfang sits down with Dr. Julia Frydman, palliative care physician and medical director at Thyme Care, and Dr. Stephanie Broussard, director of social work at Thyme Care, to talk about what whole-person cancer support actually looks like — at every stage, from newly diagnosed through survivorship and metastatic disease. Together they unpack how a proactive, interdisciplinary team of nurses, social workers, and physicians closes the gaps that so often get missed, meeting people where they are, on their schedule, whether that's a text, an after-hours call, or simply someone to talk to.

Julia and Stephanie share how structured, evidence-based check-ins catch symptoms early (before a small problem becomes an ER visit), how they screen for the emotional distress patients often don't realize they're carrying, and why the transitions in a cancer journey can feel like the rug being pulled out from under you. They tackle one of the biggest misconceptions in cancer care head-on: palliative care is NOT hospice — it's added support at any age and any stage. And they get honest about the things we rarely make space for: the ambivalence of "no evidence of disease," the grief that lives alongside the gratitude, financial toxicity, caregiver burnout, and the particular weight carried by those living with metastatic breast cancer, for whom treatment never ends.

This is a warm, practical conversation about being seen, being heard, and knowing you don't have to endure it all alone.

In this episode:

Why "you don't know what you don't know" is one of the biggest barriers in cancer care
Proactive check-ins and patient-reported outcomes: catching symptoms before they escalate
When a symptom is clinically significant — and when it's okay to manage it at home
Emotional distress vs. depression and anxiety: what's normal adjustment, and what needs support
The grief-and-gratitude paradox of survivorship, and making space for both
Fear of recurrence, "no evidence of disease," and the symptom burden that follows patients
How a nurse/social-work triage team coordinates with your oncology team (not around it)
Mental health escalation in action — from a routine call to real-time support
Financial toxicity, social needs, and caregiver support
Who can access Thyme Care, insurance partnerships, and 50-state licensing
Metastatic and life-limiting breast cancer: bearing witness and living with uncertainty
The truth about palliative care: it adds, it doesn't take away
Outcomes: higher satisfaction, improved symptoms, fewer avoidable hospitalizations, and expanded access to palliative care

About the guests:

Dr. Julia Frydman is a palliative care physician and medical director at Thyme Care, where an interdisciplinary team provides whole-person support to people living with cancer as an extra layer alongside their oncology care.

Dr. Stephanie Broussard, DSW, is director of social work at Thyme Care, leading its clinical and non-clinical social support teams, with a background in oncology, palliative care, and behavioral health.

About the show: Breast Cancer Conversations is produced by SurvivingBreastCancer.org, a nonprofit providing evidence-based education, emotional support, and well-being resources to everyone touched by breast cancer — at every stage. All of our programs are virtual, online, and 100% free, with a global reach. Learn more at survivingbreastcancer.org.

This episode is for educational and emotional-support purposes and is not a substitute for medical advice. Please talk with your own care team about your symptoms and treatment. Eligibility for Thyme Care depends on your insurer, employer, or provider — check their website to see if you're covered.

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If this episode resonated with you, we invite you to leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

You can also click the link in the show notes that says "Love this episode? Send us a text" to share feedback.

Messages are completely anonymous.

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Latest News:

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Palliative care is one of the most misunderstood parts of cancer care. Many people hear the term and think it means hospice, end-of-life care, or giving up. But palliative care, also called supportive care, can be offered alongside active cancer treatment and is focused on improving quality of life.

In this episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, we hear from Kacie Flaherty, Joyce Garber, Paula Bouckhuyt, Hillary Stackpole, and Aimee Hoes, who are living with metastatic breast cancer about their unique experiences with palliative care. Some were offered it early. Some had to ask for it. Some learned about it from other patients. Others are still trying to access the support they need.

Together, we explore what palliative care really looks like: pain management, side effect support, emotional care, medication questions, care coordination, and whole-person support.

This episode is a powerful reminder that palliative care is not about giving up. It is about helping people live with more comfort, support, dignity, and quality of life.

Resources:

Listeners looking for a palliative care provider can search the Palliative Care Provider Directory through GetPalliativeCare.org.

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If this episode resonated with you, we invite you to leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

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Messages are completely anonymous.

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When many people hear the words "clinical trial," they immediately think of a last resort.

But that's one of the biggest misconceptions in breast cancer care.

In this episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, host Laura Carfang sits down with Dr. Ada Waks, breast medical oncologist and clinical investigator at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, to demystify clinical trials and explain how they are shaping the future of breast cancer treatment.

Dr. Waks cares for patients across all stages of breast cancer while leading clinical research that helps develop tomorrow's treatments. Together, Laura and Dr. Waks discuss how clinical trials work, who they are designed for, and why patients should consider asking about them much earlier in their treatment journey.

In this episode, you'll learn:

What a clinical trial actually is
The difference between Phase I, II, and III trials
Randomized vs. blinded clinical trials
Why clinical trials are not just for patients who have run out of treatment options
How new breast cancer drugs become FDA-approved
What informed consent really means
How patient safety is protected
Why clinical trial participants often receive additional monitoring and support
How to find clinical trials that may be right for you
The future of personalized breast cancer treatment

Whether you're newly diagnosed, living with metastatic breast cancer, navigating survivorship, or supporting a loved one, this episode provides an accessible introduction to one of the most important—and most misunderstood—aspects of cancer care.

About Today's Guest

Dr. Ada Waks is a breast medical oncologist and clinical investigator at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and an Assistant Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School. She divides her time between caring for patients with breast cancer and leading clinical research focused on developing safer, more effective, and more personalized treatments. Dr. Waks also co-directs Dana-Farber's breast oncology clinical trials program, helping bring innovative therapies from the laboratory to patients.

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If this episode resonated with you, we invite you to leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

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When you're diagnosed with breast cancer, your first thought is often survival.

But what about everything that comes after?

For many young adults diagnosed with breast cancer, questions about fertility, family planning, hormone health, identity, and future possibilities quickly become part of the conversation. Yet too many patients never learn about their options until after treatment has already begun.

In this episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, Laura Carfang sits down with Kara Bendle, RN, MSN, CPN, CNL, Fertility Preservation and Adolescent & Young Adult (AYA) Program Manager at Cleveland Clinic, to discuss why fertility conversations matter from the very beginning of a cancer diagnosis.

Together, they explore:

• When fertility preservation conversations should happen
• How breast cancer treatments can affect fertility and hormone health
• The difference between fertility preservation and family building
• Egg freezing, embryo preservation, and ovarian tissue preservation
• The emotional impact of infertility and loss of choice
• Dating, relationships, and family planning after cancer
• Fertility considerations for hormone-positive breast cancer patients
• Insurance barriers and access to care
• Why patients deserve information—even when options are limited
• The importance of keeping future possibilities open

This conversation goes far beyond fertility. It explores identity, grief, survivorship, and the power of informed decision-making after a breast cancer diagnosis.

Whether you are newly diagnosed, in treatment, navigating survivorship, or supporting someone you love, this episode offers compassionate and practical guidance for understanding your options and advocating for your future.

Love this episode? Send us a text through the link in the show notes. Messages are completely anonymous. If you'd like a response, include your email address so we can follow up directly.

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If this episode resonated with you, we invite you to leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

You can also click the link in the show notes that says "Love this episode? Send us a text" to share feedback.

Messages are completely anonymous.

If you would like us to follow up directly, please include your email address in your message so we can respond.

Latest News:

Join our Mailing List - New content drops every Monday!
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Getting a mammogram should not feel complicated.

Yet many women face delays, confusion, long wait times, and unanswered questions when navigating breast cancer screening and follow-up care.

In this episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, Laura Carfang and William Laferriere sit down with Dr. Ryan Polselli, radiologist, entrepreneur, and founder of Mammolink, a mobile breast cancer screening company designed to bring mammography directly to women while reducing barriers to care.

Dr. Polselli shares how his own experience as a medical student facing a potential cancer diagnosis inspired him to rethink how healthcare is delivered. Together, they explore the realities of delayed diagnoses, dense breast tissue, same-day results, mobile mammography, artificial intelligence in healthcare, and what it will take to create a more patient-centered screening experience.

Topics we discuss:

• Why women often face delays in breast cancer diagnosis and treatment
• The growing concern of breast cancer in younger women
• What dense breast tissue means and why it matters
• Mammograms vs. ultrasound: understanding the differences
• How mobile mammography is improving access to screening
• Why same-day results can reduce anxiety and improve follow-up care
• The role of AI in breast cancer screening and patient navigation
• How employers and healthcare systems can help close screening gaps
• What patients need to know about advocating for themselves

Whether you are newly diagnosed, living with breast cancer, navigating survivorship, or simply due for your next screening, this conversation offers valuable insights into the future of breast cancer care.

Learn more about Mammolink: https://mammolink.com

Love this episode? Send us a text through the link in the show notes. Messages are completely anonymous. If you'd like a response, include your email address so we can follow up directly.

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If this episode resonated with you, we invite you to leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

You can also click the link in the show notes that says "Love this episode? Send us a text" to share feedback.

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Join our Mailing List - New content drops every Monday!
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What happens when breast cancer survivors and thrivers come together to celebrate 300 episodes of Breast Cancer Conversations?

In this special milestone episode, host Laura Carfang welcomes members of the SurvivingBreastCancer.org community for an honest, heartfelt discussion about diagnosis, treatment, survivorship, metastatic breast cancer, advocacy, and finding connection after cancer.

Together, they reflect on the stories that shaped them, the support that carried them through difficult moments, and what they wish every newly diagnosed patient knew.

Whether you're newly diagnosed, living with metastatic breast cancer, supporting a loved one, or navigating survivorship, this episode is a reminder that you are not alone.

💜 Topics include:

Finding community after diagnosis
Support groups and survivorship
Living with metastatic breast cancer
Storytelling and emotional healing
Life after treatment
Patient advocacy and self-advocacy
Managing long-term side effects
What breast cancer survivors wish they knew sooner

Thank you for helping us reach 300 episodes.

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What happens when you give yourself one year to “get through breast cancer” — only to realize that the timeline is much longer and more complicated than you imagined?

In this episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, I’m joined by Jessica Thomas, who was diagnosed with ER/PR-positive, stage 2B breast cancer with lymph node involvement. After finding a lump herself, Jessica moved through the overwhelming sequence of imaging, biopsies, chemotherapy, double mastectomy, radiation, reconstruction delays, implant complications, DIEP flap reconstruction, tamoxifen, and Verzenio.

But as Jessica shares so honestly, one of the hardest parts was not only the treatment itself. It was the waiting: waiting for results, waiting for a plan, waiting to know what came next, and trying to live inside the uncertainty.

This conversation is for anyone who has ever thought, “I just need a plan.” It is for anyone who has felt overwhelmed by the number of medications, appointments, side effects, and decisions that come with breast cancer. And it is especially for anyone who has reached the end of active treatment only to realize there is still so much more to navigate.

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Hair loss during chemotherapy is often talked about as if it is expected, inevitable, or even superficial. But for many people diagnosed with breast cancer, losing your hair can affect identity, privacy, confidence, and the way others see you.

In this episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, Laura talks with Jen Fernandez about her experience being diagnosed with breast cancer twice. The first time, Jen lost her hair. The second time, after a local recurrence, she decided to try cold capping.

Jen shares what the process was really like: the prep, the discomfort, the time commitment, the shedding, the hair care changes, and why she would do it again.

Listen now for an honest conversation about cold capping, chemo hair loss, and finding small ways to feel like yourself during treatment.

In This Episode, We Discuss

Jen’s initial breast cancer diagnosis at age 39
What it felt like to be fast-tracked into chemotherapy
Finding a new lump and dimple three years later
Navigating a local recurrence of HER2-positive breast cancer
Why Jen decided to try cold capping the second time
How long cold capping added to infusion appointments
The physical discomfort of cold capping
Hair shedding, bald spots, and regrowth
How hair loss affects identity, work, confidence, and privacy
The emotional difference between looking sick and feeling like yourself
Why cold capping is a personal decision, not a vanity decision

Support the show

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If this episode resonated with you, we invite you to leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

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In this episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, host Laura Carfang speaks with Annick Pyfferoen about her experience being diagnosed with de novo metastatic breast cancer and navigating several lines of treatment including targeted therapy, chemotherapy, a clinical trial attempt involving tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes, Enhertu, and Xeloda.

She speaks openly about what it felt like to experience rapid progression and why having a plan, even one that may change, helps her navigate uncertainty.

This episode is a reminder that metastatic breast cancer care is not only about what is happening on scans. It is also about communication, side effect management, informed decision-making, emotional support, and helping people live as well as possible for as long as possible.

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If this episode resonated with you, we invite you to leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

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In this episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, Laura Carfang speaks with Kacie Flaherty and Joyce Dini about life with oligometastatic breast cancer. They share how their diagnoses unfolded, what treatment decisions looked like, and how they’ve learned to navigate uncertainty while staying grounded in what matters most.

Together, they discuss:

The differences between metastatic and oligometastatic breast cancer.
What curative-intent treatment can look like in practice.
How diagnosis and treatment affect relationships, fertility, and identity.
The mental health challenges of living with cancer day to day.
The importance of boundaries, advocacy, and choosing joy.

Kacie and Joyce also reflect on the support they’ve found in community, the language that helped them better understand their disease, and the ways they continue to reclaim agency in the face of something they cannot fully control.

This episode is especially meaningful for patients, caregivers, and anyone seeking an honest conversation about breast cancer, treatment complexity, and emotional survival.

Topics covered: oligometastatic breast cancer, metastatic breast cancer, curative intent, treatment decisions, cancer and relationships, fertility loss, mental health, grief, resilience, patient advocacy, community support, choosing joy.

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In this episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, Laura speaks with Virginia Rodriguez, who was diagnosed with stage 4 de novo metastatic breast cancer after experiencing progressive weakness, digestive issues, dehydration, and a dramatic decline in her ability to walk and function.

Virginia shares what it was like to go from hiking the Camino de Santiago to struggling to climb the stairs in her own home, the emotional experience of finally receiving a diagnosis after months of unanswered symptoms, and how her care team identified breast cancer that had spread to multiple areas, including her brain, spine, liver, spleen, and bones.

Virginia was placed on Verzenio, also known as abemaciclib, as part of her first line of treatment. Verzenio is an oral CDK4/6 inhibitor used in certain HR-positive, HER2-negative advanced or metastatic breast cancers, including in combination with endocrine therapy depending on a person’s treatment history and clinical situation

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Jennifer Tipton was in her mid-forties, running a yoga business in California, teaching indoor cycling classes, and training clients when she was diagnosed with stage 3 estrogen-positive breast cancer at the start of 2021. Her entire year — AC chemotherapy, then Taxol, then a lumpectomy, then a double mastectomy with a DIEP flap reconstruction, then 33 rounds of radiation — was consumed by treatment. By the end of it, she was exhausted in a way most people can't quite imagine.

And then her oncologist told her about Verzenio (abemaciclib), a CDK4/6 inhibitor prescribed to help reduce the risk of recurrence in certain patients.

We discuss:

• what it felt like transitioning from active treatment to long-term medication
• how movement and exercise helped her maintain energy and resilience
• strategies she used to manage GI side effects during daily life
• the emotional complexity of long-term cancer therapy
• what improved after completing treatment
• advice for patients deciding whether Verzenio is right for them

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If this episode resonated with you, we invite you to leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

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Messages are completely anonymous.

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Latest News:

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Enjoying our content? Please consider supporting our work.

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Every breast cancer treatment plan is highly personalized, and understanding potential side effects can help patients feel more prepared, informed, and empowered throughout care.

In this episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, Laura speaks with Debbie Ciak, a breast cancer survivor diagnosed with Stage 2B ER/PR-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer with lymph node involvement.

Due to features associated with a higher risk of recurrence, Debbie’s care team recommended treatment with Verzenio (abemaciclib), a CDK4/6 inhibitor commonly prescribed alongside endocrine therapy for certain HR+, HER2- breast cancers.

During treatment, Debbie experienced significant gastrointestinal symptoms and later developed respiratory symptoms that were ultimately identified as drug-induced interstitial lung disease (ILD), also known as pneumonitis.

Debbie also shares how integrative support resources and survivorship programming helped her continue moving forward after treatment.

Her story underscores the importance of individualized care, ongoing monitoring, and open communication between patients and healthcare providers when incorporating newer therapies into treatment plans.

While every patient responds differently to therapy, conversations like this help support more informed discussions between patients and their care teams.

Topics Covered

• Stage 2B ER/PR+ breast cancer diagnosis
• understanding recurrence risk factors
• treatment decision-making
• why Verzenio was recommended
• managing common CDK4/6 inhibitor side effects
• Debbie’s experience with ILD/pneumonitis
• recognizing respiratory symptoms early
• coordinating care across oncology and pulmonology
• survivorship and ongoing monitoring
• exercise and recovery
• patient empowerment and advocacy

This episode is part of an ongoing series sharing real-world patient experiences on various therapies, highlighting the importance of education, communication, and personalized treatment decisions in breast cancer care.

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If this episode resonated with you, we invite you to leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

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What happens when the person trained to care for others suddenly becomes the patient?

In this deeply meaningful episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, Laura speaks with Bron Watson — a registered nurse, educator, and entrepreneur whose life changed dramatically after being diagnosed with breast cancer in 2018, followed by a blood cancer diagnosis in 2023.

Bron brings a powerful perspective shaped by both clinical expertise and lived experience. As someone who spent nearly two decades caring for patients, she suddenly found herself navigating fear, uncertainty, identity shifts, and the emotional complexity that comes with a cancer diagnosis.

Through her personal journey, Bron created The Serenity Project, an initiative designed to help others find calm, clarity, and self-compassion in the midst of the overwhelming experience of cancer.

Together, Laura and Bron explore:

What it feels like when the caregiver becomes the patient
How a cancer diagnosis can challenge identity, control, and confidence
The emotional impact of facing cancer more than once
Why learning to slow down can be one of the hardest lessons
The role of self-compassion in healing
How Bron’s nursing background shaped her cancer experience
The inspiration behind The Serenity Project
How community and reflection can support survivorship
Why resilience does not mean pushing through everything alone

About Bron Watson

Bron Watson is a registered nurse with over 17 years of clinical experience and more than a decade as an educator and business owner. After her breast cancer diagnosis in 2018 and blood cancer diagnosis in 2023, she founded The Serenity Project, a platform designed to help individuals navigate cancer with greater calm, clarity, and self-compassion.

Bron combines evidence-based knowledge with lived experience to help others feel less alone and more empowered during and after diagnosis.

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What does it really mean to support your body during and after breast cancer treatment?

In this episode I am joined by returning guest Dr. Amy Comander and Meg McSherry, a breast cancer patient under Dr. Comander's care, for a thoughtful conversation about lifestyle medicine and breast cancer survivorship. Together, we explore the very real physical and emotional toll of treatment, including fatigue, weight gain, loss of taste, joint pain, hot flashes, sleep disruption, and the fear of recurrence.

Dr. Comander explains how lifestyle medicine offers an evidence-based, whole-person approach to survivorship, grounded in six key pillars: physical activity, nutrition, restorative sleep, social connection, stress resilience, and reducing risky substances. She also shares how questions from patients led her to create the PAVING the Path to Wellness Program, now offered in group format to support breast cancer survivors with trusted, practical guidance.

Meg offers an honest patient perspective on going through intensive HER2-positive breast cancer treatment, how hard it was to focus on nutrition and movement in the middle of chemotherapy, and how the PAVING program helped her feel more empowered as she moved toward survivorship.

You do not have to do everything perfectly to support your health after a breast cancer diagnosis. This episode is a reminder that survivorship is not about perfection. It is about rebuilding with evidence-based tools, compassion, and community.

Resources:

Paving the Path to Wellness

https://www.pavingwellness.org/

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Body Image After Breast Cancer: Reclaiming Identity, Intimacy, and Confidence

Long after surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation end, many people find themselves navigating complex questions around identity, confidence, femininity, intimacy, and what it means to feel at home in their body again.

Host Laura Carfang is joined by Susan Smaellie, a certified holistic sexuality educator, and Anna Jensen, a breast cancer survivor and advocate, to explore the emotional and psychological impact of breast cancer beyond the clinical experience.

Together, they discuss how survivorship can influence body image, relationships, sexuality, and sense of self and why these conversations are essential, yet often overlooked in traditional medical settings.

In this episode, we discuss:

How breast cancer impacts body image and self-identity
The emotional and psychological effects of treatment
Why conversations about sexuality and intimacy are often missing in cancer care
The connection between physical healing and emotional healing
Fear of recurrence and how it can show up years after diagnosis
The importance of community in survivorship
The role of vulnerability in healing
How cultural expectations shape how women process illness
Finding meaning and growth after cancer
Resources for connection and support

About Our Guests

Susan Smaellie is a certified holistic sexuality educator and social worker who focuses on helping individuals understand the interconnected relationship between mind, body, and emotional wellbeing.

Anna Jensen is a breast cancer survivor and advocate who shares her lived experience to help others feel less alone in their survivorship journey.

Resources Mentioned

Image Reborn Foundation
Retreats and educational programs supporting emotional healing after breast cancer

SurvivingBreastCancer.org
Free programs, expert-led education, support groups, and community for individuals impacted by breast cancer

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What happens when breast cancer leaves behind more than physical scars?

In this episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, Laura sits down with Dr. Jim Jackson to explore the hidden emotional impact of cancer, including medical trauma, PTSD, fear, triggers, and healing. Dr. Jackson is a licensed psychologist, neuropsychologist, and Director of Rehabilitation and Recovery at Vanderbilt’s Critical Illness, Brain Dysfunction, and Survivorship Center, where he works with people facing life-threatening and chronic medical conditions.

Together, Laura and Dr. Jackson unpack why the experience of breast cancer can feel traumatic long after diagnosis or treatment begins. They discuss how medical trauma can develop not only from cancer itself, but also from the difficult encounters, procedures, scans, uncertainty, and dismissive moments that can leave a lasting emotional mark. Dr. Jackson explains why he prefers the term medical trauma over medical PTSD, noting that people may experience PTSD, but also anxiety, depression, OCD, and a wide range of other emotional effects.

In this episode, we discuss:

What medical trauma is and why the term matters
The difference between medical trauma and medical PTSD
How breast cancer can trigger fear, anxiety, and emotional distress long after diagnosis
Why caregivers and loved ones can experience trauma too
The importance of dignity, humanity, and being truly heard in healthcare
Dr. Jackson’s upcoming book, Reclaiming Your Life from Medical Trauma

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Cancer treatment is hard enough — but dealing with insurance denials and medical bills can make it even harder.

In this episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, host Laura Carfang sits down with board-certified patient advocate Jenni Nolan to uncover the hidden financial challenges cancer patients face when navigating insurance, billing, and prior authorizations.

Jenni has spent more than two decades working inside the healthcare system and now helps patients resolve denied insurance claims, correct billing errors, and navigate complex medical bills so they can focus on their care instead of paperwork.

Together, they discuss the biggest insurance pitfalls cancer patients face — and what you can do to protect yourself financially during treatment.

If you’ve ever received a confusing medical bill or had insurance deny a treatment your doctor recommended, this episode will help you understand what’s happening behind the scenes.

Topics Covered:

• Cancer treatment insurance coverage
• Medical billing errors and insurance denials
• Prior authorization delays in cancer care
• Financial toxicity and the cost of cancer
• How to appeal an insurance denial
• Why coding errors can impact coverage

Jenni Nolan is a Board Certified Patient Advocate (BCPA) and founder of Clear Healthcare Advocacy, where she helps patients resolve complex insurance claims and medical billing issues. With more than 20 years of healthcare administration experience, Jenni specializes in helping patients navigate the financial side of medical care

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When someone is diagnosed with cancer, the focus naturally centers on the patient.

But behind every diagnosis is another story — the story of the caregiver.

In this powerful episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, Laura Carfang steps aside from the microphone as her husband William Laferriere hosts a deeply personal conversation about caregiving.

William is joined by Dr. Eswar Shankar, a cancer researcher and faculty member at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. Dr. Shankar shares his personal experience caring for his late wife through cancer — navigating treatment, fear, uncertainty, and ultimately grief.

Together they explore the emotional realities caregivers face, including:

• How caregivers navigate fear and uncertainty
• The emotional burden of supporting someone through treatment
• Why caregivers often suppress their own feelings
• The importance of empathy and presence during illness
• What life looks like after losing a loved one to cancer
• Turning grief into purpose and meaning

Dr. Shankar reflects on the lessons caregiving taught him — about compassion, resilience, and what it means to truly show up for someone you love.

This conversation shines a light on the often unseen role caregivers play in the cancer journey.

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When Breast Cancer Changes Everything — What Do You Build Next?

What happens when a breast cancer diagnosis strips away your identity — and forces you to rebuild from the inside out?

In this deeply personal and powerful episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, Laura Carfang sits down with Christine Handy and Christine Anastos — two breast cancer survivors who turned trauma into transformation.

Christine Handy, former international model and author of Walk Beside Me, opens up about:

Undergoing multiple mastectomy surgeries
Breast implant illness
Returning to the runway as a “breastless model”
Turning her book into the award-winning film Hello Beautiful
Reclaiming worth beyond appearance

Christine Anastos (christine@connect-and-thrive.com), environmental engineer and founder of Connect & Thrive (CAT) shares:

Being diagnosed with DCIS while caregiving for her mother
Cancer’s financial toxicity and hidden barriers
Why 90% of breast cancer cases may be environmentally influenced
Launching a public benefit corporation to bridge gaps in survivorship care

Together, these women explore:

Identity after a cancer diagnosis
Faith and post-traumatic growth
The myth of “doing it alone”
Why collaboration is more powerful than competition
What it really means to be a “cancer disruptor”

Welcome to the conversation.

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Walk Beside Me

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In this powerful episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, Laura Carfang speaks with Kathy Giusti, a two-time cancer survivor who has lived with multiple myeloma for 30 years and later faced a breast cancer diagnosis as well.

Diagnosed at 37 after what she thought was a routine visit, Kathy was told she had a fatal blood cancer and would live “three years at best.” Instead of accepting that prognosis, she helped change the trajectory of cancer research by founding the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation (MMRF)—a model that brought scientists, clinicians, biotech, and the FDA together to accelerate treatments.

This conversation explores survivorship, advocacy, and what patients and caregivers can do when the science is moving fast—but the system isn’t.

In This Episode, We Discuss

Getting a shocking diagnosis after a “routine” appointment
Why multiple myeloma was once considered a “silent killer”
How Kathy helped build a research engine that accelerated drug development
The difference between fast-moving science and slow-moving systems
How Kathy’s identical twin impacted her breast cancer risk and screening
DCIS decisions and why “there’s no right or wrong—only what’s best for you”
Why “looking healthy” can cause people to underestimate what you’re carrying
How to set boundaries when you’re in treatment or survivorship
Why you shouldn’t rely on only one or two caregivers—and how to “invite people in”
Kathy’s book: Fatal to Fearless: 12 Steps to Beating Cancer in a Broken Medical System

Resources & Links

Follow Kathy: @kathy.giusti
Book: Fatal to Fearless: 12 Steps to Beating Cancer in a Broken Medical System
SurvivingBreastCancer.org: Free programs, support groups, and community
Download the SBC App: Search SurvivingBreastCancer.org in the App Store or Google Play

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What if part of what makes cancer so hard isn’t just the diagnosis—but the spaces where care happens?

In this eye-opening episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, host Laura Carfang explores how hospital design, architecture, and the built environment directly shape the cancer experience, often in ways patients never realize—but deeply feel.

Laura is joined by Abbie Clary, Executive Director of Market Strategies and Growth for Health for All, and a nationally recognized leader in healthcare architecture and experience design. With millions of square feet of cancer and healthcare facilities in her portfolio—including projects at Memorial Sloan Kettering, MD Anderson, and the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab—Abbie pulls back the curtain on how hospitals are designed, who they’re designed for, and why women are so often treated as the “outlier.”

Together, they discuss trauma-informed design, survivorship-centered care, caregiver inclusion, gender bias in medical spaces, and why healing doesn’t only happen through medicine—it happens through dignity, control, and environment.

In This Episode, We Talk About:

Why hospitals and medical spaces are often designed for a “default male”
How architecture impacts anxiety, trauma, and healing for cancer patients
What trauma-informed design actually looks like in practice
Why cancer patients experience healthcare differently than other patients
The importance of designing for repeat visits, not one-time care
How caregivers and loved ones should be treated as part of the care team
Why dignity, control, and privacy matter as much as efficiency
Gender bias in medical design—from gowns to equipment to workflows
Why women’s pain and discomfort are often minimized in healthcare
Designing cancer centers for survivorship, not just treatment

About Today's Guest

Abbie Clary, FAIA, FACHA, is the Executive Director of Market Strategies and Growth — Health for All. Her work spans some of the most ambitious healthcare projects in the world, including Memorial Sloan Kettering’s new Cancer Care Pavilion, MD Anderson Cancer Center’s 2030 facilities master plan, and the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab in Chicago.

A nationally sought-after speaker and TEDx presenter, Abbie’s work focuses on transforming healthcare through strategic, human-centered design—bridging architecture, culture change, patient experience, and health equity. Her mission is simple but radical: design healthcare spaces that actually support healing, dignity, and belonging.

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What happens when a breast surgeon becomes a breast cancer patient—and then faces a second diagnosis years later?

In this deeply personal and illuminating episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, host Laura Carfang is joined by Dr. Anne Peled, a board-certified breast, reconstructive, and plastic surgeon who has treated thousands of patients—and also navigated her own early-stage breast cancer diagnosis, followed years later by a new primary DCIS diagnosis.

Together, Laura and Dr. Peled unpack what patients are rarely told about DCIS (stage zero breast cancer), the difference between recurrence and a second primary cancer, and how advances in surgery are transforming survivorship—including sensation-preserving mastectomy.

This conversation bridges clinical expertise and lived experience, offering clarity, compassion, and permission to choose the path that aligns with your body and values.

In this episode:

What DCIS really is—and why “stage zero” can be misleading
Recurrence vs. second primary breast cancer: why biology matters
Lumpectomy vs. mastectomy and why survival outcomes are often the same
How guilt and self-blame show up after a second diagnosis
Being diagnosed with breast cancer as a physician
Navigating treatment when your colleagues are your caregivers
The evolution of oncoplastic surgery and patient-centered care
Why loss of breast sensation is under-discussed—but life-changing
How sensation-preserving mastectomy works
What questions to ask your surgeon about sensation, nerves, and recovery
Making decisions based on your priorities—not fear or pressure

About today's guest

Dr. Anne Peled is a board-certified plastic, reconstructive, and breast surgeon in private practice in San Francisco and Co-Director of the Sutter Health California Pacific Medical Center Breast Cancer Center of Excellence. Trained at Amherst College, Harvard Medical School, and UCSF, Dr. Peled completed a unique fellowship combining breast oncologic surgery and reconstruction.

Her clinical and research work focuses on oncoplastic surgery, preserving and restoring sensation after mastectomy, improving patient outcomes, and breast cancer risk reduction. She is also a breast cancer survivor herself, bringing rare dual insight to patient care.

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What happens when you’re diagnosed with stage 2B breast cancer, start a new job, and are asked to lead a COVID response—all at the same time?

In this powerful episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, host Laura Carfang sits down with Samira Daswani, founder and CEO of Manta Cares, to talk about what it really means to navigate cancer when the system isn’t built for you.

Diagnosed at 30 and undergoing chemotherapy during the earliest days of the COVID-19 pandemic, Samira shares how she worked through treatment, wrestled with impossible decisions about hormone therapy, and struggled with the loss of control that so many cancer patients feel—but rarely name.

Out of a sleepless night during chemo, Samira created a simple paper planner just to survive her own care. That tool would eventually become Manta Cares: a personalized, cancer-specific platform designed to give patients and care partners the thing most people never get—a map.

In this candid, founder-to-founder conversation, Laura and Samira explore:

Being diagnosed with breast cancer during COVID
Working through chemo and surgery while leading critical healthcare programs
Deciding whether to stay on hormone therapy—and living with that choice
Why cancer care feels like being dropped into a hike without a map
How patient-built tools can restore agency, clarity, and peace of mind
The emotional cost of fixing a system that failed you
What’s next for Manta Cares, including mobile tools and AI companions

This episode is for anyone who has ever thought:
There has to be a better way.

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What does it really mean to be diagnosed with DCIS (ductal carcinoma in situ)—often called “stage zero” breast cancer?

In this in-depth episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, host Laura Carfang is joined by a breast surgical oncologist, a radiation oncologist, and a patient advocate to unpack why DCIS can be both reassuring and deeply complex. While survival rates are excellent, treatment decisions often involve difficult trade-offs between reducing recurrence risk and preserving long-term quality of life.

The panel explores how advances in tumor biology, radiation techniques, and genomic testing—particularly the DecisionRT test—are helping clinicians and patients personalize care. Together, they discuss when radiation may meaningfully reduce recurrence risk, when it may be safely avoided, and how shared decision-making empowers patients to choose treatment paths based on information rather than fear.

Guests:

Dr. Erica Giblin, a breast surgical oncologist in Indianapolis and Director of Breast Surgical Oncology at Ascension, who brings a surgeon’s perspective on balancing effective treatment with long-term survivorship.

Dr. Fleure Gallant, a nationally recognized leader in breast radiation oncology and Radiation Medicine Lead for the Breast Disease Management Team at Northwell Health Cancer Institute, whose work focuses on delivering highly personalized, quality-of-life-centered care.

And Dr. Leona Hamrick, Vice President of Global Medical Affairs at PreludeDx, a board-certified physician associate with decades of experience in internal medicine and oncology diagnostics—and an 11-year stage III breast cancer survivor who brings the patient voice into every scientific conversation.

Topics Discussed:

What DCIS is—and why it’s considered non-invasive breast cancer
Why DCIS is classified as stage zero, regardless of size
How DCIS differs from invasive breast cancer and LCIS
Why a DCIS diagnosis can still be emotionally traumatic
Standard treatment approaches: lumpectomy, mastectomy, radiation, and hormone therapy
When and why radiation therapy is recommended after DCIS
How radiation schedules have evolved (5 days vs. 3–6 weeks)
What DecisionRT measures and how it helps predict recurrence risk
Why tumor biology matters more than age alone
Shared decision-making vs. fear-based decision-making
Quality-of-life considerations, especially for younger patients
Why more options can sometimes feel more overwhelming
The importance of second opinions and patient self-advocacy
How DCIS care is moving toward personalization and de-escalation

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What happens when breast cancer comes back — even after doing “everything right”?

In this deeply honest conversation, Laura Carfang sits down with Teresa Baglietto, a four-time cancer survivor, author, and podcast host, to talk about what it really means to live with cancer recurrence, fear, and long-term survivorship.

Teresa shares what it felt like to discover her first breast cancer lump (“it was like a block of cement”), how she navigated a recurrence after bilateral mastectomy, and the treatment decisions that ultimately saved her life — including why she chose not to take chemotherapy or tamoxifen.

Together, Laura and Teresa explore the emotional and practical realities of survivorship: fear of recurrence, making medical decisions without complete information, balancing career and health, and finding purpose after cancer.

This episode is for anyone newly diagnosed, living with metastatic or recurrent disease, or learning how to live after cancer — when the world expects you to “move on,” but your body and mind remember everything.

In This Episode, We Talk About:

What a breast cancer lump can actually feel like
Being diagnosed after delaying a mammogram
Breast cancer recurrence after mastectomy
Radiation vs chemotherapy and treatment decision-making
Oncotype DX testing and personalized care
Saying no to tamoxifen after severe side effects
Fear of recurrence and how it shows up years later
How cancer reshapes career, identity, and purpose
Why having a plan can help you survive the unknown
Finding meaning and community after diagnosis

About Our GuestTeresa Baglietto is a four-time cancer survivor, author of The Ripple Effect, and host of the podcast InShok. Her work focuses on resilience, leadership, and navigating life’s hardest moments with intention and courage.

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Breast Cancer Stopped My Life—Music and Meditation Helped Me Breathe Again: How Music and Meditation Support Healing During Breast Cancer Treatment

A breast cancer diagnosis can abruptly stop life in its tracks—canceling plans, disrupting careers, and forcing an unfamiliar stillness. In this deeply moving episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, host Laura Carfang, Ed.D. sits down with Elizabeth Borowsky, a professional pianist and composer, and Jesika Harmon, a meditation coach and wellness guide, to explore how music and meditation became powerful tools for healing during cancer treatment.

Together, they tell the story of an unexpected reconnection that led to a creative collaboration: SonisahMeditation—a unique fusion of live piano music and guided meditation designed to help people move through illness, grief, and life’s hardest moments with greater clarity and compassion.

This conversation is a reminder that healing is not only physical—it’s emotional, spiritual, and creative. Whether you’re living with breast cancer, supporting someone you love, or navigating another season of uncertainty, this episode offers permission to slow down, listen inward, and discover new ways to heal beyond medicine.

Resources:

Elizabeth Borowsky and Jesika Harmon co-created Inner Harmony, a meditation album combining live piano composition with guided mindfulness practices. Their work introduces Sonisah Meditation—from sonus (sound) and niseion (experience through trial)—a new approach to healing through sound and stillness.

📍 Available on:

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/6KmlM20xrcRU9qQfGnkXEb?referral=labelaffiliate&utm_source=1011lBVpP95B&utm_medium=Indie_Distrokid&utm_campaign=labelaffiliate
Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/album/inner-harmony/1846165188?uo=4
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b-JylYyr_EE

Learn more about our guests:

Elizabeth Borowsky:

https://www.elizabethborowsky.com/inner-harmony

Jesika Harmon:

https://www.meditationwithjesika.com/s-projects-basic

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Cancer related fatigue is one of the most persistent and frustrating symptoms. In this deeply validating and informative episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, host Laura Carfang, Ed.D., sits down with Dr. Jessa Landmann, naturopathic doctor and integrative oncology specialist, to unpack why fatigue, brain fog, weight gain, joint pain, and sleep disruption linger long after chemotherapy, radiation, or hormone therapy.

Too often, those diagnosed with breast cancer are told to “give it time,” “exercise more,” or “push through.” This conversation reframes fatigue as a treatable, understandable consequence of cancer and its therapies—and offers compassionate, practical strategies to reclaim quality of life.

Whether you’re newly diagnosed, in active treatment, living with metastatic disease, or years into survivorship, this episode reminds you: you’re not broken—and you don’t have to live exhausted.

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In this powerful episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, host Laura Carfang, Ed.D. sits down with philanthropist Sheri Biller of the Sheri and Les Biller Family Foundation to explore the often overlooked—but absolutely essential—role of supportive cancer care.

After losing her two closest friends to breast cancer over 35 years ago, Sheri made a promise: if she ever had the resources, she would dedicate her life to improving the emotional, psychological, and practical support available to everyone facing cancer. That promise became the Biller Family Foundation and later the national coalition Together for Supportive Cancer Care.

This episode dives deep into:

Why the words supportive care matter—and how they differ from palliative and hospice care
How siloed hospital systems leave millions without access to emotional and psychosocial support
Why cancer is becoming an elitist disease—and how technology and policy can fix it
Caregiver burnout and why Sheri believes we need a “Teach for America” for caregivers
The shocking lack of trust, education, and information in underserved and rural communities
Why supportive care should be a standard of care for all life-threatening illnesses

If you’re a patient, caregiver, clinician, or advocate for equity in cancer care, this conversation is a must-listen.

Topics We Cover

✔️ Sheri’s personal story and the loss that inspired her life's work
✔️ Early challenges in cancer language, communication, and stigma
✔️ Why patients “shut down” the moment they hear the word cancer
✔️ Supportive care vs palliative care—what’s the difference?
✔️ Breaking barriers for rural, underserved, and Spanish-speaking communities
✔️ Why caregivers are the next major crisis in healthcare
✔️ The need for culturally competent engagement in faith communities
✔️ Financial toxicity and the real-world burdens families face
✔️ AI and the future of early diagnosis and survivorship support
✔️ How hospitals, pharma, policy, and nonprofits are finally working together

Why This Matters

Supportive care is more than comfort—it’s critical to surviving and living with cancer. From mental health to financial navigation to caregiver support, Sheri explains how integrating supportive care into every diagnosis could transform outcomes for millions.

Resources:

The Biller Family Foundation:

https://billerfamilyfoundation.org/

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In this powerful conversation, host Laura Carfang, founder of SurvivingBreastCancer.org, sits down with Adrian Mendes, CEO of Perimeter Medical Imaging, and Dr. Allison DiPasquale, breast surgical oncologist and technology innovator. Together, they unpack one of the most anxiety-provoking moments after breast cancer surgery: “Did we get clear margins?”

Today, surgical innovation is radically changing that question.

Dr. DiPasquale walks listeners through the current challenges surgeons face with breast surgery, why 20–25% of patients traditionally require a second surgery, and how new real-time imaging tools are dramatically lowering that number. Mendes shares how Perimeter’s groundbreaking optical coherence tomography (OCT) and AI-powered margin assessment technology enables surgeons to visualize tissue in the operating room with near-microscopic detail—helping them achieve clear margins the first time.

In this episode we discuss:

What “clean margins” really mean and why they matter
Why many patients still face additional surgeries — and how that’s changing
How OCT imaging works
What AI can detect that the human eye can’t
How this technology reduces repeat surgeries and emotional burden
What patients should ask their surgeon before going into the OR
The upcoming FDA review and when patients can expect wider availability
How rural and community hospitals could benefit from AI-assisted surgical tools

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Inside the VIKTORIA-1 trial with Dr. Rachel LaymanWhat the New Genitolasib Data Mean for ER+ / HER2- Metastatic Breast Cancer

In this episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, Laura sits down with Dr. Rachel Layman, breast medical oncologist at MD Anderson Cancer Center, to unpack what’s new in ER-positive, HER2-negative metastatic breast cancer—and why clinical trials are not just a last-ditch option.

Dr. Layman walks us through the VIKTORIA-1 trial, a phase III study of a new IV drug (genitolasib, “G” for short) that targets the PAM pathway, which cancer cells often use to grow and outsmart standard hormone therapy. She explains, in plain language, what PIC3CA mutations are, what “wild-type” means, and why this trial is so exciting even for people without a PIC3CA mutation.

You’ll hear:

Why ER-positive breast cancer is the most common subtype—and still a major driver of metastatic disease
How clinical trials are designed, and why they’re often most powerful earlier in treatment (not only when “nothing else is left”)
A clear explanation of the VIKTORIA-1 study design: who was eligible, how the drug is given, and what the results showed
What “progression-free survival” means and how adding “G” changed the numbers compared to standard therapy alone
Honest talk about side effects (mouth sores, rash, blood sugar changes), and how teams are preventing and managing them
How patients can look up trials like VIKTORIA-1 and VIKTORIA-2 on ClinicalTrials.gov and bring these conversations back to their own oncologists

Whether you’re living with ER-positive metastatic breast cancer, supporting someone who is, or simply trying to understand the rapidly evolving science, this episode offers both education and hope.

Donate Here and Give The Gift of Hope

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In this candid and empowering episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, Dr. Christy Thozer breaks the silence around sexual health, menopause, and intimacy after breast cancer. Together, we unpack the myths surrounding estrogen, discuss safe treatment options for vaginal dryness and low libido, and explore how to restore confidence and connection after treatment.

Dr. Thozer shares practical advice for talking with your healthcare team, navigating hormone concerns, and embracing your right to pleasure and quality of life.

If you’ve ever felt dismissed, embarrassed, or simply unsure how to start the conversation about sexual health after breast cancer—this episode is for you.

Takeaways

Open conversations about sexual health are crucial for breast cancer survivors.
Creating a comfortable space for discussions can help patients feel more at ease.
Estrogen plays a vital role in women's health, especially post-menopause.
Vaginal estrogen can be a safe option for managing symptoms of estrogen depletion.
It's never too late to start treatment for vaginal dryness or libido issues.
Intimacy can be rediscovered through open communication with partners.
Patients should feel empowered to advocate for their health and ask questions.
Healthcare providers need more training on sexual health and menopause.
Vaginal estrogen is different from traditional hormone replacement therapy.
Finding the right specialists can greatly improve quality of life.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Sexual Health and Menopause

02:47 The Importance of Open Conversations

05:32 Creating Comfortable Spaces for Discussion

08:28 Understanding the Impact of Estrogen Loss

11:05 Managing Symptoms of Estrogen Depletion

13:38 Exploring Treatment Options for Vaginal Health

16:26 Navigating Moisturizers and Lubricants

19:00 Addressing Libido and Intimacy Challenges

20:38 Navigating Intimacy After Cancer

25:22 Understanding Treatment Options

30:45 Building a Support Network

36:06 Empowerment and Advocacy in Healthcare

Donate Here and Give The Gift of Hope

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Today’s episode is going to challenge how you think about treatment. What if cancer care wasn’t one-size-fits-all? What if every decision — from the drugs you take to the supplements you choose — was tailored to your own biology?

My guest, Dr. John Oertle, Chief Medical Director at Envita Medical Centers, has spent over 25 years pioneering a truly personalized, integrative approach that merges precision oncology, functional medicine, and technology.

We’ll explore why some people respond to treatment while others don’t, what circulating tumor DNA can tell us about recurrence, and how understanding environmental toxins and genetics can literally change your odds.

💡 Key Take-Aways

Cancer isn’t one disease. Even tumors within the same breast can have different genetic make-ups.
CTDNA and circulating tumor cells can reveal recurrence risk years before imaging shows a problem.
90% of patients Dr. Oertle sees are resistant to at least one of their prescribed chemotherapies — proving the need for personalized testing.
AI and deep learning help doctors tailor therapies in real time, shifting from “trial-and-error” to “test-and-treat.”
Off-label and combination therapies can target molecular pathways missed by standard regimens.
Environmental toxins and infections (like pesticides or Lyme disease) may play a major role in cancer initiation and progression.
Integrative care matters. Diet, metabolism, and detoxification affect how the body responds to treatment.
Early detection + data = empowerment. Patients should feel informed, not fearful, when asking about advanced testing.

Attend a free virtual SurvivingBreastCancer.org program (support groups, yoga, medication, expressive writing, art expression, and more!):https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events
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What if your cancer treatment was designed just for you?

In this episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, host Dr. Laura Carfang sits down with Jim Foote, CEO and co-founder of First Ascent Biomedical, to explore how AI-powered functional precision medicine is transforming cancer care.

Instead of relying on one-size-fits-all treatment plans, this breakthrough approach tests your actual tumor cells against hundreds of FDA-approved drugs—revealing which therapies truly work for you and which don’t.

🧬 You’ll learn:

How functional precision medicine differs from genetic testing
Why AI and lab automation are revolutionizing oncology
Real-life patient stories of hope and survival
How this technology cuts costs and reduces toxicity
Why personalization could become the new standard of care

🎧 Tune in to hear how technology, compassion, and science are coming together to rewrite the future of cancer treatment.

👉 Watch. Learn. Share. Because the future of oncology is personal.

🔗 Resources & Links:

SurvivingBreastCancer.org
First Ascent Biomedical
Follow us on Instagram: @SurvivingBreastCancerOrg
Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts

💬 Join the conversation:
What are your thoughts on personalized medicine? Leave a comment below and tell us how AI could change your cancer journey.

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Latest News:

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In this inspiring episode, host Laura Carfang, Ed.D. sits down with Tara Hoffmann of Recovery on Water and Miranda Baldwin, co-producer of Breast in Show. Together they explore life eight years after breast cancer — from navigating long-term side effects and hormonal therapy to finding joy, movement, and connection through rowing and burlesque.

This is not just survivorship — it’s strength, sisterhood, and self-expression.

In This Episode:

The power of exercise and rowing as tools for healing after treatment
Navigating hormonal therapies, side effects, and quality of life decisions
Endometriosis after breast cancer treatment — what survivors should know
Creating empowering spaces through movement and art
Building connection and confidence through community-led initiatives like ROW and Breast in Show
The upcoming Head of the Charles Regatta featuring the Recovery on Water team
How Breast in Show blends humor, art, and advocacy to raise funds for survivors

Links Mentioned:

Recovery on Water
https://recoveryonwater.org/
Breast in Show Tickets (Eventbrite)
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/breast-in-show-7-killer-breasts-from-outer-space-tickets-1670455781209?aff=ebdssbdestsearch

Attend a free virtual SurvivingBreastCancer.org program (support groups, yoga, medication, expressive writing, art expression, and more!):https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events
Subscribe to our weekly newsletter
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SurvivingBreastCancer.org: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/
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In this episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, host Laura Carfang sits down with Dr. Evan Garfein, Chief of Plastic Surgery at Montefiore Medical Center, Professor of Surgery at Albert Einstein College of Medicine, and Co-Founder of Greenwich Street Aesthetics. With more than 60 peer-reviewed publications, three biomedical patents, and a leadership role in shaping New York State’s groundbreaking breast reconstruction equity law, Dr. Garfein brings unmatched insight into the intersection of medicine, policy, and patient empowerment.

Together, Laura and Dr. Garfein unpack:

How breast reconstruction has evolved—and where the field is headed
What patients need to know about their rights, options, and insurance coverage
The real-world impact of legislation that expands access and equity in reconstructive care
The latest innovations in surgical techniques and materials that are reshaping outcomes
The emotional and psychological dimensions of reconstruction and recovery

Whether you’re a patient, caregiver, or clinician, this conversation offers valuable guidance on making informed decisions and navigating the post-mastectomy journey with confidence.

Attend a free virtual SurvivingBreastCancer.org program (support groups, yoga, medication, expressive writing, art expression, and more!):https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events
Subscribe to our weekly newsletter
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Six years ago, Veronica shared her powerful story about preparing for surgery—a conversation that quickly became one of the most-downloaded episodes in SBC history. Today, she returns to reflect on her journey, her many surgeries, and the lessons she’s learned along the way.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

The early days of diagnosis: how a mobile mammogram outside her job led to a life-changing discovery.
The ups and downs: from a cold doctor delivering the news without compassion to the challenges of medical transport gone wrong.
Surgical decisions: why she chose a single mastectomy, her experience with implants, and ultimately her deep flap reconstruction.
The realities of reconstruction: expanders, drains, scars, revisions, and what no one tells you about the process.
The emotional toll: navigating fear, shame, and the weight of making decisions as a single woman with limited support.
Wisdom gained: why asking the right questions, putting yourself first, and letting go of blame are critical parts of survivorship.

Welcome to the conversation.

Veronica's first podcast, Mastectomy Recovery Tips:https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/podcast/episode/c112012f/60-mastectomy-recovery-tips-what-i-wish-i-had-known-or-interview-with-veronica

Attend a free virtual SurvivingBreastCancer.org program (support groups, yoga, medication, expressive writing, art expression, and more!):https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events
Subscribe to our weekly newsletter
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SurvivingBreastCancer.org: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/
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In this conversation, Laura Carfang interviews JP Parthasarathy, the founder and CEO of Astran Biosciences, about the critical topic of breast cancer, particularly focusing on breast density and its implications for women's health. They discuss the importance of understanding breast density, the advancements in early cancer detection technologies, and the ongoing clinical trials aimed at improving screening methods. JP shares insights into the science behind cancer progression, the risk factors associated with breast density, and the potential for blood tests to revolutionize cancer screening. The conversation emphasizes the need for personalized medicine and the importance of empowering patients with knowledge about their health risks.

What you will learn:

Breast density is a significant risk factor for breast cancer.
Many women are unaware of their breast density and its implications.
Early detection of cancer cells is crucial for effective treatment.
Current mammogram technologies may not effectively detect cancers in dense breasts.
Personalized screening programs can improve outcomes for high-risk individuals.
The science of cancer progression is evolving, revealing new insights.
Blood tests may provide a less invasive method for early cancer detection.
Advocacy and awareness are key in improving women's health outcomes.
Understanding individual risk factors can lead to better screening strategies.
The future of cancer detection lies in integrating advanced technologies and personalized medicine.

Attend a free virtual SurvivingBreastCancer.org program (support groups, yoga, medication, expressive writing, art expression, and more!):https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events
Subscribe to our weekly newsletter
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/subscribe
Follow us on Instagram
SurvivingBreastCancer.org: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/
Breast Cancer Conversations: https://www.instagram.com/breastcancerconversations/
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Latest News:

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In this special episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, host Laura Carfang speaks with Dr. Troso about the evolving role of DNA testing in breast cancer care. Together, they break down the three main types of testing:

Hereditary genetic testing: Identifying inherited mutations such as BRCA1, BRCA2, and PALB2 (among others) that increase cancer risk and influence prevention and treatment decisions.
Somatic (tumor) testing: Analyzing mutations within the tumor itself—such as PIK3CA or ESR1 mutations—to guide targeted therapies and manage resistance in advanced disease.
Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) testing: Also known as a liquid biopsy, this emerging tool uses blood tests to detect cancer DNA fragments. It holds promise for monitoring recurrence, guiding treatment earlier, and advancing clinical trials.

Tune into this Special!

🎙️ What You Will Learn in This Episode

The three main types of DNA testing for breast cancer:
- Hereditary genetic testing (inherited risk, BRCA1/2, PALB2, and full gene panels)
- Somatic/tumor testing (mutations that develop in the tumor, such as ESR1, PIK3CA, AKT, PTEN)
- ctDNA testing (liquid biopsies that detect tumor DNA fragments in the blood)
Why genetic testing today goes beyond BRCA1 and BRCA2 and should include full panel testing
How somatic mutations can develop over time and drive treatment resistance — and the targeted therapies available to address them
The potential of ctDNA (circulating tumor DNA) testing in monitoring recurrence, guiding treatment, and detecting cancer earlier than imaging
Insights from recent clinical trials (such as the ZEST trial with PARP inhibitors) and why research is essential before ctDNA becomes standard of care
How DNA testing influences treatment decisions, from surgery planning to advanced therapy options
The emotional side of survivorship: managing fear of recurrence and focusing on lifestyle choices within your control (nutrition, exercise, sleep, mindset)

SURVIVINGBREASTCANCER.ORG

Attend a free virtual SurvivingBreastCancer.org program (support groups, yoga, medication, expressive writing, art expression, and more!):https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter

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About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast

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In this episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, host Laura Carfang sits down with Dr. Rebecca Knackstedt, Assistant Professor of Plastic Surgery at Duke University and founder of the popular Instagram community @surgical_recovery. Together, they explore the groundbreaking concept of prehabilitation (“prehab”) before breast cancer surgery—a holistic approach that empowers patients to prepare their body, mind, and spirit for better surgical outcomes.

Dr. Knackstedt shares evidence-based strategies for optimizing nutrition, exercise, sleep, and emotional well-being before surgery, while also offering practical advice on supplements, inflammation, and lymphedema prevention. This candid conversation goes beyond the operating room, reminding us that healing starts before surgery day—and that small, intentional steps can make a big difference in recovery and quality of life.

🎧 What You Will Learn

The definition of prehabilitation and why it’s a game-changer for breast cancer patients
Simple, actionable steps to prepare your body for surgery—even if you only start with one change
The critical importance of protein and muscle strength in recovery
Which supplements are safe and helpful, and which should be avoided before surgery
How sleep, stress management, and emotional support directly influence healing
Practical exercise recommendations tailored to your surgery type
How to confidently advocate for yourself and ask the right questions of your care team

SURVIVINGBREASTCANCER.ORG

Attend a free virtual SurvivingBreastCancer.org program (support groups, yoga, medication, expressive writing, art expression, and more!):https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter

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Follow us on Instagram
SurvivingBreastCancer.org: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/
Breast Cancer Conversations: https://www.instagram.com/breastcancerconversations/

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About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

Support the show

Latest News:

Join our Tell Cancer To Go #TakeAHike October 25, 2025 fundraiser! It's free to sign up! Learn more and start your team!
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In this episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, I had the pleasure of interviewing Dr. Tiffany Troso Sandoval, a highly esteemed medical oncologist who has dedicated over 25 years to treating women's cancers. Dr. Troso shared her extensive experience and insights into the evolving landscape of oncology, particularly in breast cancer treatment.

Throughout our conversation, Dr. Troso stressed the importance of resilience and empowerment for cancer patients. She shared practical advice on how patients can take control of their health by maintaining a healthy lifestyle, staying informed, and building a supportive community.

📲 Text CANCER to 516-271-4114 to receive free resources from Dr. Troso

Winning the cancer journey

SURVIVINGBREASTCANCER.ORG

Attend a free virtual SurvivingBreastCancer.org program (support groups, yoga, medication, expressive writing, art expression, and more!):https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

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About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

Support the show

Latest News:

Join our Tell Cancer To Go #TakeAHike October 25, 2025 fundraiser! It's free to sign up! Learn more and start your team!
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A cancer diagnosis is life-changing. For individuals navigating breast cancer, the focus often centers on survival—completing treatment, managing side effects, and getting back to “normal.” But for many survivors, what follows is far from familiar. The emotional, physical, and relational impacts of cancer can linger long after treatment ends, especially when it comes to sexual health and intimacy.

I had the pleasure of speaking with Tiffini Sharifi, a licensed professional counselor and certified sex therapist. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to better understand and navigate the intersection of breast cancer survivorship and sexual health.

SURVIVINGBREASTCANCER.ORG

Attend a free virtual SurvivingBreastCancer.org program (support groups, yoga, medication, expressive writing, art expression, and more!):https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter

https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/subscribe
Follow us on Instagram
SurvivingBreastCancer.org: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/
Breast Cancer Conversations: https://www.instagram.com/breastcancerconversations/

About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

Free Guides:

3 Ways to Rekindle Intimacy After Cancer (even when you’re exhausted or anxious)

3 Tools to Manage Scan Anxiety

Find a Certified Sex Therapist in Your State: AASECT Directory

Tiffini Sharifi, MA, LPC, CST. Certified Sex and Relationship Therapist

Website: https://alivetogrow.com
Email: tiffini@therapywithtiffini.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/therapywithtiffini
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffinisharifi/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TiffiniSharifi

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In this episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, I had the privilege of speaking with Bob Furniss, a father, husband, and author who has turned his family’s heartbreaking experience with breast cancer into a mission to educate and advocate for early detection. Bob and his wife Susan founded the nonprofit WarriorPrincess.org in honor of their late daughter, Keesha Furniss, who was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer at the age of 30.

Bob shared the emotional journey of Keesha’s diagnosis, treatment, and the impact it had on their family. He recounted how Keesha’s initial symptoms were misdiagnosed and how the eventual discovery of her cancer came as a shock. Despite the devastating news, Keesha faced her illness with incredible strength and resilience, earning the nickname “Warrior Princess.”

This episode is a poignant reminder of the impact of breast cancer on families and the power of turning grief into purposeful action. I hope you find inspiration in Bob’s story and are encouraged to have those crucial conversations about breast health with their loved ones.

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About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

Resources discussed on this episode:

Warrior Princess: https://warriorprincess.org/:

On to Blue: https://www.amazon.com/Blue-Breast-Cancer-Warrior-Through/dp/B0DYQDWXVZ

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In this episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, I had the pleasure of speaking with Cindy Fortuna, a registered holistic nutritionist who specializes in supporting individuals navigating and recovering from cancer. Cindy brings a wealth of knowledge and personal experience to the table, having faced her own cancer diagnosis.

Our conversation covers a range of topics, from the importance of whole foods and maintaining a healthy gut, to the role of stress management in overall health. Cindy emphasized the significance of incorporating nutrient-dense foods like cruciferous vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, and fermented foods into our diets. She also highlighted the benefits of herbs and spices, such as turmeric and cinnamon, in reducing inflammation and supporting immunity.

We also touched on practical tips for managing stress, the importance of adequate sleep, and the need for proper hydration. Cindy shared her personal strategies for maintaining a balanced lifestyle, including the use of juicers and air fryers to make healthy eating more convenient.

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Attend a free virtual SurvivingBreastCancer.org program (support groups, yoga, medication, expressive writing, art expression, and more!):https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

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About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

Resources discussed on this episode:

For those interested in further resources, Cindy mentioned her Cancer Conquering Nutrition Guide, available for free on her website, which provides a comprehensive list of nutrient-rich foods to support cancer recovery and overall health.

CFor Wellness: https://c4ws.ca/

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How A Walk in the Woods Changed Everything: Regan’s Story of Healing and Breast Cancer Survival

In this episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, I had the pleasure of speaking with Regan Stacey, a breast cancer survivor and advocate for the healing power of nature. We delved into the profound impact that connecting with the natural world can have on our mental, emotional, and physical well-being, especially for those navigating the challenges of a breast cancer diagnosis.

Regan shared her personal experience with breast cancer, from her initial diagnosis and the psychological toll it took, to her discovery of forest bathing and other mindfulness practices. She emphasized the importance of slowing down and reconnecting with nature as a means to heal and find inner peace. Regan's background in biology, fine arts, and her extensive training in mindfulness and forest therapy have uniquely positioned her to guide others on this path.

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In this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Nina Prol, an experienced oncology nurse and SurvivingBreastCancer.org's amazing Pilates instructor. Nina has been a vital part of our community, offering free, virtual Pilates classes that are accessible to anyone.

We dive into the benefits of Pilates, especially for those undergoing cancer treatment. Nina shared how Pilates can help manage the side effects of treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, and hormonal therapies by promoting gentle movement and honoring the body's capabilities. She introduced the concept of "exercise snacks," which are short, manageable bursts of exercise that can be easily incorporated into daily routines.

Welcome to the conversation.

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https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/movement-mondays

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About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

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Genetic tests like 23andMe are perceived as a fun and engaging way to explore family history, However, the implications of genetic testing extend beyond mere curiosity about ancestry; they touch on the very fabric of our lives and the lives of our loved ones. For those who discover they carry genes associated with increased cancer risk, like Lesser, the stakes are high. It raises questions about proactive measures, such as screenings or preventive surgeries, and how these decisions affect not only the individual but also their family members. Lesser's narrative illustrates the emotional complexity of being a previvor—someone who has not yet developed cancer but carries a genetic predisposition. The conversations around such decisions often involve family dynamics, as loved ones grapple with the implications of their own genetic risks and the potential need for testing.

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About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

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In the podcast episode, I speak with Kate Garcia and Jen Tipton, and discuss the significant role that yoga can play in the lives of breast cancer survivors and thrivers. Both Kate and Jen lead yoga classes for our SurvivingBreastCancer.org (SBC) community and they share their personal experiences and insights on how yoga can aid in healing and recovery.

Restorative Yoga: Kate teaches restorative yoga classes that focus on gentle movements and breathing techniques. This style is particularly beneficial for individuals who may feel overwhelmed or disconnected from their bodies due to the stresses of cancer treatment. Kate emphasizes that restorative yoga can be challenging in its own right, as it requires participants to slow down and be present, which can be difficult in our fast-paced lives.
DIEP Flap Yoga: Jen leads DIEP flap yoga classes specifically designed for individuals who have undergone DEIP flap surgery. This type of yoga addresses the unique physical challenges faced by those recovering from such surgeries, including tightness and discomfort in the chest and abdomen. Jen's personal experience with DIEP flap surgery allows her to connect with her students on a deeper level, providing tailored guidance and support.

SURVIVINGBREASTCANCER.ORG

Attend a free virtual yoga class:

https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/movement-mondays

Attend a free virtual SurvivingBreastCancer.org event:https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

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SurvivingBreastCancer.org: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/
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About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

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In this episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, I, Laura Carfing, founder of survivingbreastcancer.org, delve into the critical topic of fertility preservation and genetic counseling for breast cancer patients. Joined by Alejandra Bernal, a genetic counseling student at the University of Pittsburgh, and Melissa Bourdius , a hereditary cancer counselor, we explore the intersection of cancer treatment, fertility, and genetics.

Alejandra shares insights from her research on how patients are informed about the risk of infertility due to cancer treatments and the role genetic counselors can play in this process. She highlights the importance of asking the right questions and involving a multidisciplinary team to ensure patients receive comprehensive information about their options.

Melissa discusses the genetic aspects of cancer, explaining how mutations in genes like BRCA1 and BRCA2 can increase cancer risk and affect family planning decisions. She emphasizes the importance of genetic counseling in helping patients understand their risks and make informed decisions about their treatment and future family planning.

It's all here for you in today's episode!

Resources:

https://www.facingourrisk.org/support/insurance-paying-for-care/screening-and-prevention/fertility-preservation/overview
https://www.allianceforfertilitypreservation.org/fertility-risks-from-treatment/
https://www.thechickmission.org/ Information about grants and advocacy
https://worththewaitcharity.com/resources/patient-education/ Has practical patient resources

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About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

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In this episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, host Laura Carfang welcomes Dr. Amy Morris, an ovarian cancer survivor and cancer researcher, to discuss navigating health and wellness post-cancer diagnosis. We delve into essential topics such as the side effects of treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, and hormonal therapies, including weight gain and the challenges of sudden menopause. Dr. Morris shares her unique insights from both her professional background in oncology and her personal journey as a survivor. Tune in for valuable information and support for those affected by breast cancer and their caregivers.

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Attend a free virtual SurvivingBreastCancer.org event:**https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

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About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

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In this episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, I had the pleasure of speaking with Kathleen Moss, a nutritionist from Portland, Oregon, who shared her journey with breast cancer. Kathleen's story is both unique and insightful, as she was diagnosed with lobular breast cancer after a decade of screening and monitoring a shadow in her left breast. She detailed her experience with DCIS, the challenges of detecting lobular breast cancer, and the eventual discovery of invasive cancer following her mastectomy.

Kathleen provided an in-depth explanation of lobular breast cancer, highlighting its distinct characteristics and the difficulties in detection due to its non-lump formation. She also discussed the importance of advocacy and education, emphasizing the need for awareness around different breast cancer subtypes.

We delved into her surgical decisions, including her choice to forgo breast reconstruction in favor of a Goldilocks mastectomy, and the emotional and physical impacts of these choices. Kathleen's advocacy work with the Lobular Breast Cancer Alliance and her efforts to support and educate others through local advocacy teams were truly inspiring.

Kathleen also shared her personal experiences with her mother's breast cancer diagnosis and passing, and how it shaped her perspective on life and death. As we wrapped up, she updated us on her current health status and the ongoing surveillance for potential recurrence.

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Attend a free virtual SurvivingBreastCancer.org event:**https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

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About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

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In this episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, I had the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Kohli, the Director of Breast Surgery at Monmouth Medical Center in New Jersey. We delved into the multifaceted journey of breast cancer survivorship, emphasizing the importance of treating the whole person, not just the disease.

Dr. Kohli shared her insights on the increasing incidence of breast cancer in younger women and the importance of focusing on the quality of life for long-term survivors. We discussed the initial overwhelming phase of diagnosis and treatment decisions, and how crucial it is to consider mental and emotional health alongside physical health.

One of the key topics we explored was the decision-making process regarding surgery options—lumpectomy, mastectomy, and double mastectomy.

We also touched on the long-term management of side effects, particularly lymphedema. Dr. Kohli explained what lymphedema is, its risks, and the importance of early detection and proactive management. She introduced the use of bioimpedance spectroscopy for early detection and shared her approach to monitoring and managing this condition.

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About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

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I had the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Thomas Francel, a plastic surgeon specializing in breast reconstruction.

One of the key takeaways from our conversation was the importance of personalized care. Dr. Francel stressed that each patient's journey is unique, and decisions regarding reconstruction should be made based on individual circumstances, preferences, and medical needs. We also touched on the emotional aspects of recovery, sharing heartfelt stories of patients who found confidence and a sense of normalcy through successful reconstruction.

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Attend a free virtual SurvivingBreastCancer.org event:**https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

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About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

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In this episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, I had the pleasure of speaking with Dianne Faure, an attorney, author, teacher, advanced Eden energy medicine practitioner, and massage therapist. Dianne shared her incredible journey of using energy medicine to manage and overcome various health issues, including her own diagnosis with inflammatory breast cancer.

Dianne's background is impressive. She has resolved multiple health issues such as chronic pain, allergies, rheumatoid arthritis, skin lupus, and connective tissue disease through the Eden Method.

In April 2021, Dianne was diagnosed with inflammatory breast cancer, a rare and aggressive form of the disease. She decided to document her experience and incorporate her energy medicine tools to manage the treatment and its side effects. This journey led her to publish her memoir and self-help book, "Cancer and Energy Medicine, A Healing Journey," in 2024.

During our conversation, Dianne explained the broad umbrella of energy medicine, which includes acupuncture, traditional Chinese medicine, yoga, and Reiki. She delved into her personal experience with breast cancer, from the initial diagnosis to the various treatments she underwent, including chemotherapy, mastectomy, and radiation.

Dianne also shared how she used energy medicine to navigate the side effects of chemotherapy and other treatments. She emphasized the importance of self-advocacy and understanding one's body, especially when dealing with a complex and often misunderstood condition like inflammatory breast cancer.

We discussed the concept of energy medicine in detail, including the nine energy systems, such as meridians, auras, and chakras. Dianne provided insights into how she assesses and balances these energy systems in her clients using techniques like energy testing and muscle testing.

Dianne's book is a valuable resource for cancer patients, survivors, and their loved ones. It offers practical tools and techniques to manage the physical and emotional challenges of cancer treatment. The book is available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and other major retailers.

This episode is a treasure trove of information for anyone interested in complementary approaches to cancer treatment and overall well-being. Dianne's story is a testament to the power of energy medicine and the importance of taking an active role in one's healing journey.

For more information, visit survivingbreastcancer.org, where you can sign up for our mailing list, make a donation, and explore the 400+ programs we offer each year.

Until next time, keep on thriving.

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In this episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, I had the pleasure of speaking with S.L. Wisenberg, a self-described "one-breasted feminist" and author of "The Adventures of Cancer Bitch." S.L. shared her journey of being diagnosed with stage 2A breast cancer in 2007, undergoing a mastectomy and chemotherapy, and how she turned her experience into a powerful narrative through her writing.

We delved into S.L. Wisenberg’s inspiration for starting her blog, Cancer Bitch, and how writing became a therapeutic outlet for her. She discussed the importance of expressive writing and how it can be a tool for processing emotions and experiences, especially for those diagnosed with breast cancer. S.L. also shared practical advice for aspiring writers, including the use of writing prompts and the significance of revising one's work.

We touched on the broader themes of breast cancer culture, the disparities in treatment, and the political statements behind choosing or not choosing reconstruction. S.L. emphasized the importance of finding a supportive community, whether through writing groups, classes, or organizations like Gilda's Club.

Throughout our conversation, S.L.’s humor and candidness shone through, making it clear why her work resonates with so many. Her insights into balancing personal experiences with privacy, and the therapeutic nature of writing, provided valuable takeaways for our listeners.

Thank you, S.L., for sharing your story and wisdom with us. And to our listeners, remember that your experience is unique and worth sharing. Keep on thriving, and join us next time on Breast Cancer Conversations. For more information and to access our free programs, visit survivingbreastcancer.org/events.

Resources Mentioned:
https://www.slwisenberg.com/works.htm

https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/healingthroughart

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Dr. Janet Abrahm reshapes the common perception of palliative care, emphasizing that it should not be viewed solely as end-of-life support, but rather as an essential form of supportive care that can significantly improve patient outcomes and quality of life when integrated early. With over 20 years of experience at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Dr. Abrahm is a leading expert in the palliative care needs of cancer patients and the author of the Comprehensive Guide to Supportive and Palliative Care for Patients with Cancer. She has been recognized with the prestigious Walther Cancer Foundation Supportive Oncology Award from the American Society of Clinical Oncology. Tune in to hear valuable insights from Dr. Abrahm about the importance of palliative care in the journey of cancer patients and their families.

https://janetabrahm.com/

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Breast cancer is a deeply personal journey. As the landscape of breast cancer treatment evolves, understanding the surgical options available becomes crucial for patients navigating this challenging experience. In this episode, we speak with Dr. Yolanda Tamero, a breast surgical oncologist, who provides invaluable insights into the various surgical interventions available for those diagnosed with breast cancer. We talk about the different types of breast surgeries, the roles of various medical professionals involved, and the considerations that we should keep in mind when making decisions about our surgical treatment options.

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In this episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, I had the pleasure of speaking with Stephanie S. Abbott, a remarkable individual who has navigated the complex worlds of both healthcare administration and cancer survivorship. Stephanie brings a unique perspective, having served in multiple leadership roles in healthcare, including Chief Experience Officer for Adventist Health and Division Vice President of Patient Experience for HCA.

Stephanie shared her personal journey, from her diagnosis on November 12, 2021, to her experiences as a patient undergoing treatment. She highlighted the emotional and operational challenges she faced, offering invaluable insights into the friction points within the healthcare system. Stephanie's story underscores the importance of human connection and effective communication between patients and healthcare providers.

Stephanie is also the author of the book Buried or Planted: 100+ Expert Insights from a Healthcare Executive's Journey as a Cancer Patient on Amazon below: https://www.amazon.com/Buried-Planted-Insights-Healthcare-Executives/dp/B0D4Q9QM78

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About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

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In this episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, I had the pleasure of speaking with the incredible Dr. Amani Jambhekar, a board-certified general surgeon and medical director for surgical breast oncology at Christus St. Vincent in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Dr. Jambhekar shared her journey from Texas to New Mexico, driven by her commitment to women's health and her response to the Texas law SB8, which bans most abortions after six weeks of pregnancy.

We delved into the significant impact of SB8 on women's healthcare, discussing how it has led to increased maternal mortality, healthcare professional shortages, and a more challenging environment for women seeking medical care. Dr. Jambhekar highlighted the broader implications of such legislation, emphasizing the need for evidence-based medicine and the importance of advocating for women's rights.

Our conversation also touched on the pervasive issues of gender bias and microaggressions in the medical field. Dr. Jambhekar shared personal experiences of being underestimated and disrespected as a female surgeon, and we discussed the importance of mentorship and support among women in healthcare.

We explored the critical need for better access to healthcare, particularly for breast cancer patients, and the disparities that exist in diagnosis and treatment. Dr. Jambhekar's insights into the challenges faced by women in healthcare and her dedication to empowering women both as patients and professionals were truly inspiring.

As we navigate these complex issues, it's clear that advocacy, education, and support are essential. I encourage our listeners to engage in these conversations and support women's rights.

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About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

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In this episode, I had the honor of speaking with Heather Salazar, an incredible woman whose journey through breast cancer led her to create the impactful nonprofit, Pink Ribbon Good. Heather's story is one of resilience, compassion, and dedication to helping others.

Heather shared her powerful narrative, starting with her connection to Alexis, a young mother with metastatic breast cancer. Heather and her husband adopted Alexis's baby, Lexi, and cared for Alexis during her final months. Tragically, 18 months later, Heather herself was diagnosed with breast cancer. Despite the challenges, Heather emerged as a survivor and channeled her experience into founding Pink Ribbon Good.

Pink Ribbon Good began with a mission to provide meals, house cleaning, rides to treatment, and peer support to breast cancer patients and their families. Heather's dedication and innovative approach have allowed the organization to grow exponentially, now serving nationwide and delivering over 1 million meals.

Heather also discussed the importance of survivorship and the unique challenges it presents. She emphasized the value of living in the moment and being present for loved ones, lessons she learned from her own journey and from those living with metastatic breast cancer.

We also touched on the operational challenges and triumphs of running a nonprofit, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Heather's story is a testament to the power of community, resilience, and the impact one person can make.

To learn more about Heather's work and Pink Ribbon Good, visit pinkribbongood.org and follow them on social media.

Thank you for tuning in to this heartfelt and inspiring episode. If you enjoyed it, please share it with your friends and family, and consider sending us some fan mail or tagging us on social media at survivingbreastcancer.org. Your support helps us continue to provide valuable resources and support to those affected by breast cancer.

You can read Heather's story here: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/post/my-answer-to-cancer

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About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resil

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Latest News:

Join our Tell Cancer To Go #TakeAHike October 25, 2025 fundraiser! It's free to sign up! Learn more and start your team!
Become a Breast Cancer Conversations+ Member! Sign Up Now.

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In this episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, we delve into the complexities of living with a metastatic breast cancer diagnosis and explore the various diagnostic and treatment options available. Our panel includes Dr. Groteluschen, a medical oncologist from Green Bay Oncology, Tammy, a patient living with metastatic breast cancer, and Dr. Covington, a breast radiologist and nuclear radiologist from the University of Utah.

Dr. Groteluschen shares his approach to delivering heavy news to patients, emphasizing the importance of honesty, transparency, and hope. He discusses the nuances of different imaging techniques, such as CT scans and PET scans, and how they are used to monitor disease progression and inform treatment decisions. Tammy provides a personal perspective on her journey, highlighting the importance of advocating for oneself and seeking second opinions.

Dr. Covington offers insights into the role of radiology in breast cancer care, explaining the differences between FDG PET and FES PET scans. He discusses how these imaging techniques help in identifying the extent and characteristics of the disease, which in turn guides treatment planning.

We also touch upon the evolving landscape of breast cancer treatment, including the potential for nuclear medicine-based therapies and the importance of targeted therapy. The episode concludes with reflections from each panelist on what excites them most about the future of breast cancer oncology, from advancements in imaging and targeted therapies to the ongoing development of clinical trials.

This episode is a deep dive into the intricacies of metastatic breast cancer, offering valuable insights for patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals alike.

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About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

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Latest News:

Join our Tell Cancer To Go #TakeAHike October 25, 2025 fundraiser! It's free to sign up! Learn more and start your team!
Become a Breast Cancer Conversations+ Member! Sign Up Now.

Love the episode? Send us a text!

In the realm of breast cancer treatment, nurse navigators play a pivotal role in guiding patients through the complexities of their diagnosis and treatment. This episode of "Breast Cancer Conversations" features insights from Colleen Beguin, Amanda Kuller from Honor Health and Lourdes Heras, a patient advocate at SurvivingBreastCancer.org, who share their experiences and perspectives on the importance of nurse navigation.

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About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/takeahike

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Katrece's journey began in her late 30s, a time when many women may not consider themselves at risk for breast cancer. With no known family history of the disease, she was caught off guard when she noticed a physical change in her body—one breast appeared larger than the other. This seemingly benign observation led her to seek medical attention, a decision that would prove to be pivotal in her healthcare journey. The initial visit to her family doctor, although met with some skepticism regarding the urgency of her symptoms, highlighted the importance of being proactive. Despite not feeling a lump during a self-exam, Katrece’s instincts pushed her to pursue further evaluation, demonstrating that awareness and self-advocacy are crucial components of health management.

You can listen to Katrece's full story with IBC in episode 242. Today we go beyond diagnosis and treatment to survivorship! Katrece shares her story 11+ years from that initial call informing her she had breast cancer. Today she is living with no evidence of disease!

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About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

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I had the privilege of speaking with Katrece Nolen, a breast cancer survivor from Northern Virginia. We had such a lovely and long conversation that I ended up producing this episode in two parts. Today we dive into Katrece’s compelling story with inflammatory breast cancer (IBC).

Diagnosed in her late 30s, Katrece's story began with a simple observation of asymmetry in her breasts, which led her to seek medical attention. Despite initial challenges in getting timely appointments, her persistence paid off when she was diagnosed with IBC, a rare and aggressive form of breast cancer.

Katrece detailed the rigorous treatment process, which included chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation, emphasizing the importance of having knowledgeable doctors and advocating for oneself. She also highlighted the emotional and logistical challenges of managing a cancer diagnosis while raising three young children, and the critical role of community and family support.

Katrece's story is a powerful reminder of the importance of self-advocacy, the need for specialized knowledge in treating rare cancers. In part II (EPS 423), we celebrate Katrece’s survivorship of 11+ years and what survivorship and surveillance look like for those diagnosed with breast cancer.

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About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/takeahike

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In today's episode, we delve into the world of PET scans and other imaging modalities crucial for accurate diagnosis and staging of breast cancer. We are joined by two incredible guests: Dr. Kiser, the Medical Director of Molecular Imaging for Carilion Clinic, and Pam Kohl, a patient advocate living with metastatic breast cancer.

Dr. Kiser provides an in-depth explanation of PET scans, particularly focusing on FDG and FES (also known as Cerianna) PET scans. FDG-PET scans use radioactive glucose to highlight cancerous tissues, while FES-PET scans target estrogen receptors, making them highly specific for ER-positive breast cancer. Dr. Kiser emphasizes the revolutionary impact of these imaging techniques in both diagnostics and therapeutics.

Pam shares her personal experience with breast cancer, highlighting the importance of advocating for oneself. Diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer in 2009, Pam experienced a recurrence in 2017, which led to a stage 4 metastatic diagnosis. Her story underscores the critical role of PET scans in detecting metastasis early and informing effective treatment plans. Pam's experience with FES-PET scans has been particularly transformative, allowing her medical team to tailor her treatment precisely to her cancer's characteristics.

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About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

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In this episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, we delve into the critical topic of nuclear medicine and its role in breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. As a breast cancer survivor and advocate, I understand the anxiety that comes with scans involving radioactive tracers. Today, we aim to demystify this process and highlight its importance.

I am joined by Dr. Kaiser and Pam Kohl, who provide insights from both medical and patient advocate perspectives. We discuss the safety and precautions associated with nuclear medicine tests, particularly focusing on the issue of extravasation—when the radioactive material leaks into surrounding tissues instead of staying in the vein.

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About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

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In this episode we are joined by Dr. Katherine Benedict, a Clinical Psychologist at Stanford University, along with patient advocates Delta James and Roxana Guerrera, to discuss the topic of dating, sex, and love after a breast cancer diagnosis. We highlight the importance of normalizing the challenges and complexities of intimacy post-diagnosis. Tune in for insightful advice and empowering stories from survivors, those living with MBC, and patient advocates.

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About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

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In this episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, we had the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Laura James, a naturopathic oncologist based in Washington State. Dr. James provided a wealth of information about the role of naturopathic oncology in breast cancer care, emphasizing the importance of integrative medicine. She clarified the distinctions between integrative, complementary, and alternative care, and highlighted the collaborative approach she takes with conventional medical teams to support patients through their cancer journey.

We discussed the critical role of the "four cornerstones" of health—diet, exercise, sleep, and stress management—in supporting overall well-being and reducing the risk of cancer recurrence.

We also delved into the emotional and psychological aspects of a breast cancer diagnosis, particularly the societal pressures and internalized guilt that many women face. Dr. James emphasized the need for setting boundaries and practicing real self-care, which she defines as self-preservation; it is not selfishness.

Throughout our conversation, Dr. James highlighted the importance of building a comprehensive care team and the challenges of integrating naturopathic oncology into conventional cancer care. She shared her experiences in developing relationships with conventional doctors and the ongoing effort to gain acceptance for integrative approaches.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to understand the holistic approach to breast cancer care and the importance of addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of the disease. Dr. James's expertise and compassionate approach offer valuable insights for patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers alike.

Attend a free virtual SurvivingBreastCancer.org event:https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

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About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

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In today's episode, host, Laura Carfang speaks with breast cancer survivor Brianna Rickertsen. Brianna was diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma in July 2020 at age 35. She underwent chemotherapy, surgery, radiation, and additional treatments due to a HER2 positive tumor. Brianna discovered she has a BRCA2 mutation, leading to further preventive measures, including ovary removal.

Pre-Diagnosis, Brianna was an active person, engaging in activities like yoga, cycling, hiking, and running. During Treatment Brianna used the Peloton app daily for mental health and physical activity, adapting her routine based on her energy levels and treatment schedule. Post-Treatment, Brianna emphasizes the importance of movement in managing fatigue and overall well-being, advocating for small, consistent efforts.

Timestamps:

[00:03:23] Breast cancer diagnosis in 30s.

[00:09:44] Bone health and treatment decisions.

[00:11:45] Discussing fertility options during treatment.

[00:14:17] Genetic testing and surprises.

[00:19:01] Coping through daily exercise.

[00:23:41] Exercise in cancer treatment.

[00:25:18] The power of walking during treatment.

[00:29:15] Exercise dosing in cancer treatment.

[00:34:24] Strength training for beginners.

[00:38:06] Lymphedema and strength training.

[00:41:13] Weightlifting and health journey.

[00:45:03] Finding joy in exercise.

[00:45:53] Reframing approach to daily activities.

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Meet the SBC Early Stage Leadership Team: Meghan Staskal-BradtJ, ulie Cottrill, Carol Collins, Meghan Aycock, Pooja Jain & & Marcee Raffel

The team is a powerhouse of volunteers who have been instrumental in driving various projects and initiatives at survivingbreastcancer.org.

Today's episode provides an opportunity for you to meet these volunteers and hear their personal stories of being diagnosed with breast cancer and advice for those newly diagnosed or dealing with survivorship.

From finding lumps to navigating treatments, weight gain, and post-treatment challenges, our panelists share candid insights into life after a breast cancer diagnosis. Join us as we discuss the highs and lows of survivorship and the importance of self-care.

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In this episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, I had the pleasure of speaking with Jessica Balidad, a remarkable woman who has turned her personal experience with breast cancer into a powerful advocacy platform. Jessica, a five-year survivor of stage 2B invasive ductal carcinoma, shared her journey from diagnosis to becoming a passionate advocate for women's health.

Jessica's story is both inspiring and educational. She discovered her cancer through a self-breast exam, a practice she had been diligent about since having a benign tumor removed in college. Despite her family history of breast cancer, she faced challenges in getting her concerns taken seriously by medical professionals, highlighting the importance of self-advocacy and awareness.

Jessica's experience led her to create the Feel For Your Life app, a free mobile application designed to educate women on how to perform self-breast exams, track changes and set reminders for regular checks. The app also includes a new AI feature, Breastfriend AI, which helps users understand their medical reports and prepare questions for their doctors, making the often overwhelming medical information more accessible and less intimidating.

We also discussed the broader implications of breast cancer awareness and education, particularly among younger populations. Jessica has been instrumental in legislative efforts to include self-exam education in high school curriculums in Tennessee, aiming to empower the next generation with the knowledge to take control of their health.

Additionally, Jessica shared insights into navigating the complexities of medical insurance, offering practical advice on how to handle claim rejections and advocate for necessary treatments.

This episode is a testament to the power of turning personal pain into a purpose-driven mission. Jessica's work through Feel For Your Life is making a significant impact, providing essential tools and support for those affected by breast cancer.

Attend a free virtual SurvivingBreastCancer.org event:https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

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About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

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Listening to your body is crucial, especially during times of illness or recovery. In today's episode, Michelle Sandlin talks about her unexpected diagnosis despite leading a very healthy lifestyle. We discuss the significant role of genetic testing in Michelle's life, revealing her BRCA1 gene mutation and its implications not only for her but also for her family members, including her daughter who chose to take preventive measures. Michelle shares how writing helped her process her experience, manage her emotions, and connect with others. Her book, Cancer Don't Care, aims to inspire and support others going through similar challenges and can be found on Amazon, available in hardback, paperback, and Kindle editions. For more inspiring stories, stay tuned to Breast Cancer Conversations.

Note: The information shared in this podcast is based on personal experiences and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for medical guidance.

Thank you for tuning in, and don't forget to subscribe to our newsletter at survivingbreastcancer.org/subscribe for more updates and inspiring stories. Keep thriving, and see you in the next episode!

Topics Covered:
[00:10:36] Being diagnosed with cancer.

[00:13:55] Exercise and cancer benefits.

[00:19:24] Meditation during cancer journey.

[00:22:41] Genetic testing and family impact.

[00:29:02] Making decisions about surgeries.

[00:32:22] Michelle's journey with writing.

[00:39:29] Choosing positivity during adversity.

Attend a free virtual SurvivingBreastCancer.org event:https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

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Laura and Will: https://www.instagram.com/laura_and_will/
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About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

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The heart of today's episode is the poetry readings from our community members. Each poet shared their personal experiene with breast cancer, touching on themes of struggle, resilience, and hope. From Brookshire McDonald's reflections on the growth of our community to Farhana's poignant farewell to her breasts, each piece brings unique insights and emotions.

Joely from New Jersey shared her experience compiling an anthology of breast cancer-related poetry, emphasizing the therapeutic power of writing. We also heard from Cindy, whose fierce poem likened the battle with cancer to a warrior's fight and Evelina Buendia gives voice to The Warrior Cry, to name a few.

The episode concluded with a collaborative poem created by our community, symbolizing our collective strength and support for each other. It was a powerful reminder of the support network that survivingbreastcancer.org strives to provide.

Thank you for joining us for this moving episode.

Poets:
Brookshire McDonald - Beyond the DreamFarahana Kassam, Alas, My Boobs AdieuJoely Serino, Hearts in the Sand
Cindy Farmer, To the Amazons
Pooja Jain, Sleepless NightsEvelina Johnson Buendia, In the MiddleSue Krejci, SurvivorshipLaura Carfang, The Night Train
Gloria Shoon, Reflection After MeditationLourdes Heras, Solitude and SupportWilliam Laferriere, DesperationEvelina Jonshon Buendia, The Warrior CryJoely Serino, Cancer During CovidElisa Herrares, FlowingWilliam Laferriere, Waiting for HerculesA tribute to Ilene Kaminski, Memory of Hope
Elle Veitch, SistersAll, Group Poem Creation

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About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

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In today's episode, we tackle a highly requested topic: navigating work while living with MBC. We explore the complexities of managing a career, discussing when to work, when to consider disability, and how to maintain health insurance and benefits amidst a metastatic diagnosis.

Our guest, Abigail Johnston, leads our MBC webinar series and has assembled an incredible panel of women who share their firsthand experiences of working with MBC

Our panelists include:

Holly, from Portland, who was diagnosed de novo metastatic and continues to work a physically demanding job at the Humane Society.
Lisa Hahn, from Alexandria, Virginia, who works for Pew Charitable Trust and has been living with MBC since 2019.
Dawn McDaniel, a psychologist who founded Mystical Energies and was diagnosed with MBC in April 2023.
Wendy Casper, a psychologist and professor at the University of Texas at Arlington, who has been researching work-life balance and cancer diagnosis communication.

The panelists share their unique stories, from disclosing their diagnosis to requesting reasonable accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act. They also discuss the importance of self-care and the challenges of balancing work with treatment schedules.

We highlight resources like cancerandcareers.org and triagecancer.org, which provide invaluable guidance for those navigating cancer in the workplace. These organizations offer state-specific resources and federal protections under the ADA.

Each journey is unique. No one is alone in this experience. We encourage our listeners to reach out with topics or to share their stories on our show.

Attend a free virtual SurvivingBreastCancer.org event:https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

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About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

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Awareness and resources for safety are crucial when it comes to addressing issues of domestic violence, especially in the context of breast cancer. In today's episode we share personal experiences, warning signs, and resources for those who may be facing this difficult situation.

Lourdes Heras, a breast cancer survivor, shares her experience of dealing with both a health issue and a violent intimate partner. She highlighted the importance of recognizing and addressing domestic violence, especially within the Hispanic community where discussions about such topics may be considered taboo or embarrassing.

We are joined by Cami inforzato who is the Women's Program Coordinator for the Domestic Abuse Intervention Programs. The discussion highlights the parallels between the private nature of breast cancer and domestic violence, both of which may not be immediately visible to others. It is essential to create a safe and supportive environment where survivors feel empowered to seek help and access resources for their safety.

Topics Covered:

00:07:02 - The Power and Control Wheel Explained
00:10:25 - The Impact of Domestic Violence on Women and Children
00:13:30 - Lourdes's Journey to Seeking Help
00:18:49 - The Importance of Women Supporting Each Other
00:19:33 - The Equality Wheel: Signs of a Healthy Relationship
00:21:37 - Lourdes Reflects on Her Growth and Empowerment

Resources:Hotline: 800.799. SAFE (7233).
Power and Control Wheel: https://www.thehotline.org/identify-abuse/power-and-control/

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Laura and Will: https://www.instagram.com/laura_and_will/
SurvivingBreastCancer.org: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/
Breast Cancer Conversations: https://www.instagram.com/breastcancerconversations/

About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

Support the show

Lauren shared her story, starting from the unsettling discovery of a lump during a routine yoga practice to her diagnosis of stage 3, triple-positive breast cancer at the young age of 29. She recounted the initial disbelief, the urgency of starting treatment, and the life-altering decisions she faced, including fertility preservation through IVF before commencing chemotherapy.

00:03:59 - Lauren's Breast Cancer Diagnosis Story
00:08:48 - Family History and Genetic Testing
00:11:12 - Sharing Diagnosis with Family and Friends
00:14:21 - Treatment and Fertility Decisions
00:19:48 - Journey to Motherhood
00:25:08 - Children and Surrogacy Experience
00:33:44 - Starting Liv and Let and the Giv Shoppe

Resources mentioned in this episode:https://www.livandlet.com/
https://www.givshoppe.com/

Attend a free virtual SurvivingBreastCancer.org event:https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

Follow us on Instagram
Laura and Will: https://www.instagram.com/laura_and_will/
SurvivingBreastCancer.org: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/
Breast Cancer Conversations: https://www.instagram.com/breastcancerconversations/

About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

Support the show

Tune in to this episode of Breast Cancer Conversations as Shannon and Erin share their personal experiences with the Signatara test. Shannon, living with oligometastatic breast cancer, takes a holistic approach to her treatment plan, while Erin, with early-stage triple-negative breast cancer, offers insights from a different perspective.

Personalized blood tests for cancer, such as the Signatera are revolutionizing the way we monitor and treat cancer. These tests offer a non-invasive and more accurate way to detect circulating tumor cells in the bloodstream, allowing for early detection of cancer recurrence or progression.

The Signatera test, developed by Natera, uses a combination of blood samples and tissue samples to create a specialized test that can detect circulating tumor cells that may not be detectable through traditional testing methods. By analyzing the levels of these circulating tumor cells in the bloodstream, the test can provide valuable information about the presence of residual cancer cells and the risk of recurrence or progression.

Discover how Signatara is used to determine treatment plans and explore a variety of perspectives on managing breast cancer.

[00:07:12] Holistic cancer treatment approaches.

[00:14:06] Breast cancer treatment options.

[00:18:13] Pathology complete response.

[00:23:19] Circulating tumor cells detection.

[00:25:52] Genetic makeup of cancer cells.

[00:30:36] Exploring treatment options.

[00:37:31] Moments of advocacy and empowerment.

[00:44:33] Customizing Cancer Treatments.

[00:49:17] Early cancer detection methods.

[00:50:52] Misconceptions about cancer stages.

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Attend a free virtual SurvivingBreastCancer.org event:https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

Follow us on Instagram
Laura and Will: https://www.instagram.com/laura_and_will/
SurvivingBreastCancer.org: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/
Breast Cancer Conversations: https://www.instagram.com/breastcancerconversations/

About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

Support the show

Dawn shares her journey from diagnosis to traveling the world doing cat sitting after caring for her mother. Their conversation touches on major milestones, personal experiences, and the impact of travel on Dawn's life post-treatment. Tune in for an inspiring story of resilience and adventure.

00:02:08 - Travel Stories Post-Diagnosis
00:08:42 - Seeking a Second Opinion and Surgical Biopsy
00:12:34 - Dawn's Experience with Aromatase Inhibitors
00:19:02 - The Importance of Second Opinions and Patient Choice
00:21:24 - Dawn's Radiation Experience and Naturopathic Protocols
00:24:06 - The Importance of Self-Care and Lifestyle Adjustments
00:31:49 - The Three Stages of Recovery: Survive, Transform, Soar
00:34:41 - The Role of Self-Care in the Healing Process
00:40:12 - Embracing Travel as a Form of Emotional Release

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Attend a free virtual SurvivingBreastCancer.org event:https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

Follow us on Instagram
SurvivingBreastCancer.org: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/
Breast Cancer Conversations: https://www.instagram.com/breastcancerconversations/
Laura and Will: https://www.instagram.com/laura_and_will/

About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

Support the show

In this episode, Emily Parks, a patient advocate and professional living with a chronic illness, shares her personal journey with medical PTSD, starting from her diagnosis at birth with a gene mutation affecting her GI system. She talks about the lack of mental health support in her medical treatment and how she learned to manage her condition and advocate for herself within the healthcare system.

We touch on the importance of recognizing medical PTSD, understanding its triggers, and learning how to communicate effectively with healthcare providers to ensure better care and support. Emily emphasizes the power of language in expressing our experiences and the need for literature that accurately reflects the trauma associated with chronic illness and medical treatment.

We cover practical tips for managing medical PTSD, such as setting boundaries with healthcare providers, seeking therapy, and finding coping mechanisms that work for you. We discuss the importance of building a respectful relationship with your medical team and how to advocate for your needs in a healthcare setting. Welcome to the Conversation!

00:03:57 - Emily Parks' Personal Medical Journey
00:08:41 - Defining Medical PTSD
00:10:10 - Examples of Medical PTSD
00:14:28 - The Impact of Medical PTSD on Cancer Patients
00:18:12 - The Term "Non-Compliance" in Medical Notes
00:19:51 - Medical Gaslighting Explained
00:29:27 - Building a Trusting Relationship with Healthcare Providers
00:31:09 - The Importance of Language in Expressing Medical Trauma
00:33:06 - Practical Steps for Accessing Care with Medical PTSD
00:34:11 - Setting Boundaries with Healthcare Teams
00:37:10 - Coping Mechanisms and Self-Advocacy
00:44:55 - Resources and Articles on Medical PTSD
00:47:38 - The Importance of Patient-Centered Care
00:51:07 - The Power Dynamic Between Patients and Providers
00:52:31 - Strategies for Communicating with Healthcare Providers

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Attend a free virtual SurvivingBreastCancer.org event:https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

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SurvivingBreastCancer.org: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/
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Laura: https://www.instagram.com/laura_and_will/

About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

Support the show

In this episode, we had the pleasure of introducing our incredible Metastatic Breast Cancer (MBC) Leadership Team. It was a heartwarming session where we delved into the personal journeys of our team members, each sharing their unique experiences with breast cancer.

Our conversation was guided by the ever-inspiring Abigail Johnston, a board member and a dear friend, who led us through the stories of our amazing guests. We heard from Katie, Sheila, Claudia, Melanie, Amy, and in spirit, Kathleen, who couldn't join us due to the side effects of MBC. Each story was a testament to the strength and resilience of those living with a metastatic diagnosis.

We discussed the importance of clinical trials, the power of education, and the need for community support. Our team also highlighted the resources and programs that Surviving Breast Cancer offers, including our webinar series, support groups, and the wealth of information available on our website.

The episode was not just about sharing stories; it was about building a family. We emphasized the significance of intimacy in our conversations and creating a space where we can share the most personal aspects of our lives with openness and trust.

Topics Covered:
00:03:33 - The Role of the MBC Leadership Team
00:06:02 - Personal Stories: Katie's Journey with MBC
00:09:08 - Sheila's Experience and Advocacy in the Hispanic Community
00:12:25 - Claudia's Experience with Metastatic Triple Negative Breast Cancer
00:17:01 - Melanie's Transition from Early Stage to Metastatic Disease
00:23:05 - Amy's Diagnosis and Advocacy Work
00:29:22 - Honoring Kathleen's Contributions and Initiatives
00:32:01 - Abigail's Clinical Trial Experience and Advocacy
00:44:38 - Overcoming Cultural Barriers in the Hispanic Community
00:47:36 - The Significance of Education in Cancer Treatment

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Website:
SurvivingBreastCancer.org: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/

Attend a free virtual SurvivingBreastCancer.org event:https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

Follow us on Instagram
SurvivingBreastCancerorg: https://www.instagram.com/survivingbreastcancerorg/
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Breast Cancer Conversations: https://www.instagram.com/breastcancerconversations/

About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

Support the show

Today's episode of Breast Cancer Conversations features Rachel Burns, an incredible musician, singer, songwriter, and founder of the nonprofit Cancer Culture. Celebrating 10 years since her initial diagnosis, Rachel dives into her identity beyond cancer, highlighting her roles as a mom, daughter, and advocate. As a musician, Rachel describes the healing power of music and how it helped her process her emotions and experiences with cancer. Rachel's songs, which blend various genres, serve as a source of hope and inspiration for others facing similar challenges. Welcome to the Conversation

Rache's story is a powerful reminder that while cancer can change our lives, it doesn't have to define them. We can find strength in our passions, support in our communities, and hope in our continued efforts to live fulfilling lives.

Topics Covered:
00:02:17 - Living with Breast Cancer Post-Diagnosis
00:05:35 - Identity and Breast Cancer
00:12:36 - Mental Health and Cancer Diagnosis
00:16:02 - Lifestyle and Diet Before Cancer
00:24:29 - Finding Flow State Through Music
00:28:20 - The Healing Power of Art and Music
00:33:59 - Involvement with Cancer Culture

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Attend a free virtual SurvivingBreastCancer.org event:https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

Follow us on Instagram
Laura and Will: https://www.instagram.com/laura_and_will/
SurvivingBreastCancer.org: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/
Breast Cancer Conversations: https://www.instagram.com/breastcancerconversations/

About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

Support the show

Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Jacquie Carter Angell, a remarkable woman who has not only survived non-Hodgkin's lymphoma as a teenager but is now living with metastatic triple-negative breast cancer (mTBBC).

Jacquie shares her incredible journey with us, from being told she wouldn't live past her early 20s to becoming a mother, a wife, and a successful entrepreneur in the beauty industry. Despite her initial diagnosis of HER2-positive breast cancer and later, the more challenging triple-negative metastatic disease, Jacquie's spirit remains unbroken.

In our conversation, 's emphasized the importance of self-examination, noting that both times she discovered her breast cancer, it was through accidental self-discovery rather than routine mammograms. She highlighted the need for women, regardless of age, to be vigilant about their breast health.

Jacquie also opens up about the difficult decision of whether to disclose her cancer diagnosis to colleagues at work. She reflected on her first experience with breast cancer, where she prioritized her career over her health, and contrasted it with her current approach, which puts her well-being first! Welcome to the Conversation.

00:02:05 - Jacquie's Personal Story and Cancer Experiences
00:09:06 - Deciding Whether to Share Diagnosis at Work
00:18:28 - Discovering the Recurrence of Cancer
00:23:06 - Experience on Trodelvy
00:24:01 - Understanding Triple Negative Breast Cancer
00:29:19 - Finding Positivity and New Interests During Cancer
00:31:28 - The Role of Caregivers and Family Support
00:32:38 - Advice for Those Recently Diagnosed

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Attend a free virtual SurvivingBreastCancer.org event:https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

Follow us on Instagram
Laura and Will: https://www.instagram.com/laura_and_will/
SurvivingBreastCancer.org: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/
Breast Cancer Conversations: https://www.instagram.com/breastcancerconversations/

About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

Support the show

Today, we had the pleasure of having Melanie Sisk on the show to demystify the complex world of emerging endocrine therapies, often referred to as the "alphabet soup" of treatments. Melanie provided clarity on the different classes of drugs and how they interact with tumors, particularly focusing on those that target estrogen receptors.

We discussed:

SERMs (Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators): These drugs, like tamoxifen, block the growth of cancer cells by competing with estrogen receptors.
SERDs (Selective Estrogen Receptor Down Regulators/Degraders): Drugs like Fluvestrant work by degrading estrogen receptors.
SERANs (Complete Estrogen Receptor Antagonists): These block both pathways of estrogen, offering a complete blockade.
PROTACs: A newer class that targets specific proteins, such as the estrogen receptor, to inhibit cancer growth.

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Attend a free virtual SurvivingBreastCancer.org event:https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

Follow us on Instagram
Laura and Will: https://www.instagram.com/laura_and_will/
SurvivingBreastCancer.org: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/
Breast Cancer Conversations: https://www.instagram.com/breastcancerconversations/

About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

Support the show

Sanya has been conducting interviews with breast cancer patients and medical professionals to provide a comprehensive understanding of the treatment process. In this episode, Sanya interviews Gracita, a dedicated chemotherapy nurse who shares her own breast cancer journey and her passion for helping others. Gracita's story from the Bahamas to Haiti and eventually to the US serves as a testament to her commitment to making a difference. Tune in to hear her inspiring story and insights into the patient-medical team relationship.

Gracita, a chemotherapy nurse and breast cancer survivor, shares her perspective on the significance of building a strong relationship between patients and their medical team. As a chemotherapy nurse, she empathizes deeply with her patients, rejoicing in their victories and sharing their sorrows. This level of personalized care and empathy is a testament to the dedication of healthcare professionals involved in the treatment process.

The episode also highlights the different treatment modalities and recommendations for breast cancer, taking into account factors such as tumor size and characteristics (estrogen-positive, HER2-positive, or triple negative). This further underscores the need for tailored treatment plans that consider the specific characteristics of each individual's cancer.

Furthermore, the episode emphasizes the importance of staying up-to-date with the latest guidelines and research when creating treatment plans. This reflects the continuous evolution and refinement of treatment plans based on the latest evidence and advancements in breast cancer treatment.

[00:01:30] Gracita's breast cancer journey.

[00:08:06] Cancer treatment journey.

[00:09:30] Working with cancer patients.

[00:17:23] Religion and family in cancer journey.

[00:19:18] Importance of having support.

[00:23:47] The mystery of cancer.

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Attend a free virtual SurvivingBreastCancer.org event:https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

Follow us on Instagram
Laura and Will: https://www.instagram.com/laura_and_will/
SurvivingBreastCancer.org: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/
Breast Cancer Conversations: https://www.instagram.com/breastcancerconversations/

About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

Support the show

In this episode, we delve into the exciting developments in antibody drug conjugates (ADCs) presented at the 2023 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium.

ADCs are a promising class of treatment that combines an antibody with a chemotherapy drug, aiming to target and kill cancer cells more effectively while reducing side effects. We discuss approved ADCs like Enhertu and Trodelvy, and highlight that there's an ADC available for every breast cancer subtype. With many more ADCs in clinical and preclinical trials, the future looks hopeful for breast cancer treatment.

We explain the structure of ADCs, which includes the antibody that targets cancer cells, the cytotoxic drug that kills the cells, and the linker that holds them together. We also touch on the importance of choosing treatment types based on personal circumstances, such as age and family responsibilities, as different treatments come with varying side effects.

During the episode, we cover two clinical trials in detail. The first is about Datopotamab Deruxtecan (DATO-DXD), which showed promising results in hormone receptor-positive, HER2-negative patients, offering increased progression-free survival and different side effect profiles compared to traditional chemotherapy. The second trial combined DATO-DXD with the immunotherapy drug Durvalumab for advanced and metastatic triple-negative breast cancer, showing a high response rate and manageable side effects.

Our guest, Katie, shares her personal experiences with ADCs and provides insights into side effect management. She emphasizes the importance of dose adjustments and monitoring for specific side effects like nausea, vomiting, and interstitial lung disease. Katie also mentions the ongoing research to optimize dosing, detect side effects earlier, and engineer drugs with lower toxicity.

As always, we remind our listeners that the information shared on our podcast is based on personal experiences and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. We encourage you to reach out to your medical care team with any questions or concerns.

00:00:47 - Overview of Antibody Drug Conjugates (ADCs)
00:03:37 - FDA-Approved ADC Examples
00:04:49 - Datopotamab Deruxtecan (DATO-DXD) Clinical Trial Insights
00:07:10 - Combining DATO-DXD with Immunotherapy
00:08:23 - Managing ADC Side Effects
00:09:53 - Specific Recommendations for Current ADCs
00:11:09 - Future Directions in ADC Development

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Attend a free virtual SurvivingBreastCancer.org event:https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

Follow us on Instagram
Laura and Will: https://www.instagram.com/laura_and_will/
SurvivingBreastCancer.org: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/
Breast Cancer Conversations: https://www.instagram.com/breastcancerconversations/

About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

Support the show

This podcast episode is part of our MBC webinar series with survivingbreastcancer.org, and focuses on resources for parents living with stage four metastatic breast cancer. The panel includes Carissa Hodgson from Bright Spot Network, Airn Ahlum Hanson from Living Beyond Breast Cancer, Kelsey Mora from the Pickles Group, and Sara Olsher from Mighty and Bright. All of these organizations offer support and resources for parents and children affected by a cancer diagnosis. In this episode, we emphasize the impact of a cancer diagnosis on parenting and highlight the need for resources to help parents navigate this difficult situation.

00:00:15 - Resources for parents with stage four metastatic breast cancer.
00:11:58 - Books help children understand illness.
00:17:05 - Support and resources for families.
00:22:49 - Virtual programs build a greater community.
00:29:04 - Parenting resources for families affected by cancer.
00:40:01 - Importance of supporting clinicians and patients.
00:47:15 - Plan A and Plan B.
00:52:49 - Navigating chronic metastatic disease together.
00:57:39 - Children are more aware than we realize.

Bright Spot Network
https://www.brightspotnetwork.org/

Living Beyond Breast Cancer:
https://www.lbbc.org/about-breast-cancer/family-relationships/parenting

Mighty and Bright
https://mightyandbright.com/

Pickles Group
https://www.picklesgroup.org/

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Attend a free virtual SurvivingBreastCancer.org event:https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

Follow us on Instagram
Laura and Will: https://www.instagram.com/laura_and_will/
SurvivingBreastCancer.org: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/
Breast Cancer Conversations: https://www.instagram.com/breastcancerconversations/

About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

Support the show

Welcome back to another episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, where we continue to share valuable insights from the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium. As a breast cancer survivor and the founder of survivingbreastcancer.org, I'm thrilled to bring you key takeaways from one of the world's largest breast cancer conferences.

In this episode, we focus on what to do when CDK4-6 inhibitors, such as Ibrance, Kisqali, and Verzenio, stop working. Our guest, Amy Bremer, highlights the importance of getting a biopsy to check for mutations, which can be done through a liquid biopsy or a tissue biopsy. This step is crucial for determining the next course of action.

We delve into the various treatment options available based on specific mutations. For instance, if your cancer has a PIK3CA mutation, a combination of PIQRAY and Faslodex might be recommended. Other drugs like Trucap, Orserdo, and LSS strontosome are also discussed as potential options for different mutations.

For those without mutations, there are still choices available, such as Affinitor plus Faslodex, or considering a switch to a different CDK4-6 inhibitor. We also discuss the possibility of continuing treatment beyond progression or, in cases of aggressive progression, looking into chemotherapy or antibody drug conjugates (ADCs).

Stay tuned for our next episode, "on SERDs, SERMs, CERANs, and PROTACs" and remember to subscribe to Breast Cancer Conversations. Please note that our podcast shares personal experiences and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you have specific topics in mind or want to be a guest, feel free to reach out to me.

Thank you for listening, and let's continue to empower each other through community, education, and resources.

00:02:44 - Topic: CDK4-6 Inhibitor Efficacy
00:03:31 - Options After Endocrine Therapy and CDK4-6 Inhibitors
00:04:35 - Treatment Options Based on Specific Mutations
00:05:40 - Options Without Identified Mutations
00:06:43 - Inherited Mutations and Treatment Choices
00:07:09 - Expert Opinions on Treatment Complexity
00:08:44 - Importance of Clinical Trials
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Attend a free virtual SurvivingBreastCancer.org event:https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

Follow us on Instagram
Laura and Will: https://www.instagram.com/laura_and_will/
SurvivingBreastCancer.org: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/
Breast Cancer Conversations: https://www.instagram.com/breastcancerconversations/

About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

Support the show

In today's episode, part of our MBC webinar series, we delve into the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium (SABCS). We aim to break down the overwhelming amount of information into digestible insights. We discuss key findings, particularly on inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) and invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC), with insights from Amy Parliman, a member of our MBC leadership team.

Amy highlights the advancements in technology that outpace current treatment options and the importance of recognizing the unique challenges of diagnosing IBC and ILC due to their imaging difficulties. She shares that the symposium acknowledged these challenges and that there's growing research focusing on the genomic mutations specific to these types of breast cancer.

We also touch on the significance of patient-centric care, reminding listeners that they have the ultimate say in their treatment decisions. Amy shares her personal experience with her treatment regimen and the importance of sticking with what works unless there's a compelling reason to change.

The episode also covers the potential of contrasted mammograms and the need for different types of PET-CT scans for accurate diagnosis. We stress the importance of being informed and advocating for oneself, as treatments can vary based on individual cancer properties.

As always, we remind our listeners that the information shared is from personal experiences and not a substitute for professional medical advice. We encourage reaching out to your medical care team with any questions or concerns.

00:02:46 - Dr. Mankoff's Research on Imaging Technology
00:04:02 - Genomic Mutations in Different Breast Cancer Types
00:04:34 - Clinical Trials and Research Timelines
00:04:56 - Genes Implicated in Inflammatory Breast Cancer
00:06:02 - Imaging Challenges with Lobular Breast Cancer
00:07:07 - Amino Acid Studies and PET-CT Imaging
00:09:19 - Personalized Treatment and Informed Questions

Attend a free virtual SurvivingBreastCancer.org event:https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

SurvivingBreastCancer.org's Mission: To empower those diagnosed with breast cancer and their families from day one and beyond.

Follow us on Instagram
Laura and Will: https://www.instagram.com/laura_and_will/
SurvivingBreastCancer.org: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/
Breast Cancer Conversations: https://www.instagram.com/breastcancerconversations/

About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

Support the show

In today's episode, part of our MBC webinar series, we delve into the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium (SABCS). We aim to break down the overwhelming amount of information into digestible insights. Over the next week, we will be releasing short snippets and key take-aways from SABCS. If you are thinking about attending this conference, today's patient advocate panelists share tips and tricks for making the most of your SABCS experience!

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Attend a free virtual SurvivingBreastCancer.org event:https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

Follow us on Instagram
Laura and Will: https://www.instagram.com/laura_and_will/
SurvivingBreastCancer.org: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/
Breast Cancer Conversations: https://www.instagram.com/breastcancerconversations/

About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

Support the show

In today's episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, we dive deep into oral health!

Before undergoing cancer treatment, it is crucial for individuals to prioritize their dental health. This is because cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy, can have significant effects on oral health, specifically how bisphosphonates may lead to Osteonecrosis of the Jaw (ONJ). In this podcast episode, we discuss the importance of visiting a dentist and dental hygienist before starting cancer treatment to achieve optimal oral hygiene.

Topics Covered in this Episode:

Bisphosphonates and dental health.
Dental health considerations before cancer treatment.
Oral health during cancer treatment.
Understanding dental and medical coverage.
Bisphosphonate-induced osteonecrosis of the jaw.
Dental complications with bisphosphonates.
Osteonecrosis symptoms and diagnosis.
Nerve treatment during surgery.

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Attend a free virtual SurvivingBreastCancer.org event:https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

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SurvivingBreastCancer.org's Mission: To empower those diagnosed with breast cancer and their families from day one and beyond.

About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

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Follow us on Instagram
Laura and Will: https://www.instagram.com/laura_and_will/
SurvivingBreastCancer.org: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/

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Creating hope through tragedy is a powerful concept that is exemplified throughout this podcast episode. The conversation we have with Jan Hillman and Elesha Snyder shed light on the devastating effects of breast cancer and how it can inspire individuals to take action and make a difference. Jan shares her journey of being diagnosed with breast cancer multiple times, including a recent diagnosis of metastatic breast cancer. Elesha shares the story of her sister Kelli who unfortunately passed away from metastatic disease. Elesha's desire to make a difference and help others going through similar experiences is commendable. By creating the Breast Wishes Foundation, she is not only honoring her sister's memory but also providing support and resources to individuals and families affected by breast cancer. Welcome to the conversation

Topics Covered in this Episode:

00:04:03 - Jan's Personal Experience with Breast Cancer
00:09:03 - Elesha's Experience with Her Sister's Breast Cancer and the Inspiration for Breast Wishes Foundation
00:12:26 - Mission and Vision of Breast Wishes Foundation
00:22:57 - Importance of Bringing Joy and Granting Wishes
00:26:44 - Focus on Committees and Spreading the Workload
00:27:42 - Importance of Strategic Planning and Accomplishments
00:36:02 - Discussion on Sustainable Expansion and Self-Care
00:40:03 - Additional Resources and Topics to Explore

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About Breast Wishes Foundation:https://www.breastwishesfoundation.org/

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Attend a free virtual SurvivingBreastCancer.org event:https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

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SurvivingBreastCancer.org's Mission: To empower those diagnosed with breast cancer and their families from day one and beyond.

About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

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Follow us on Instagram
Laura and Will: https://www.instagram.com/laura_and_will/
SurvivingBreastCancer.org: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/

Support the show

Welcome to Breast Cancer Conversations, the podcast dedicated to empowering those affected by breast cancer. I'm your host, Laura Carfang, a breast cancer survivor and the founder of survivingbreastcancer.org. In this episode, we're diving into a topic that resonates with many in our community: the role of exercise, specifically Pilates, in regaining normalcy after a breast cancer diagnosis.

Our guests today are Nina Prol, Bev Breen, and Marie McGuire, who share their insights and personal journeys with Pilates. Nina, a registered nurse with 30 years of experience in adult medical oncology, is also a passionate Pilates instructor. She shares how Pilates, originally developed by Joseph Pilates, is a low-impact exercise that enhances spine flexibility, posture, and core strength, making it ideal for cancer patients.

Bev, an executive assistant and breast cancer survivor, recounts her experience with Pilates during her radiation treatment. Despite the challenges of treatment, Pilates provided her with a much-needed mental and physical break. Marie, another member of our community, emphasizes the importance of movement in managing lymphedema and maintaining overall well-being.

Throughout the conversation, we discuss the benefits of Pilates for those undergoing cancer treatment, including improved sleep, reduced anxiety, and increased strength. We also touch on the importance of breathwork and mindfulness as tools for stress reduction.

As a reminder, while exercise can be a powerful tool in recovery, it's crucial to listen to your healthcare provider's advice and communicate any side effects or concerns.

We hope this episode inspires you to explore Pilates or other forms of exercise as part of your recovery journey.

Topics Covered:

00:00:03 - Introduction to Breast Cancer Conversations Podcast
00:02:12 - Discussing Exercise Post-Cancer Diagnosis
00:04:09 - Nina's Introduction and Pilates Journey
00:06:12 - Bev's Experience with Breast Cancer and Pilates
00:09:42 - Marie's Breast Cancer Story and Pilates Experience
00:14:18 - The Benefits of Pilates and Its Accessibility
00:24:59 - Discovering Pilates Post-Diagnosis
00:30:18 - The Mental Health Benefits of Pilates
00:33:09 - Importance of Communication with Healthcare Providers
00:35:38 - NCCN Guidelines and Empowering Patients
00:37:44 - Questions to Ask Your Doctor
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Attend a free virtual SurvivingBreastCancer.org event:
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

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SurvivingBreastCancer.org's Mission: To empower those diagnosed with breast cancer and their families from day one and beyond.

About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

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Follow us on Instagram
Laura and Will: https://www.instagram.com/laura_and_will/
SurvivingBreastCancer.org: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/

Support the show

In this episode, we emphasize the significance of being mindful about the conversations we have, the friendships we cultivate, and the music we listen to, as they can either nourish or deplete us. Just as the food we consume can impact our physical well-being, the conversations we engage in can have a similar effect on our overall health.

Investing time in nourishing conversations can be life-giving rather than promoting negativity. By dissolving fear and choosing where to focus our attention, we can engage in conversations that bring vitality and contribute to our overall well-being.

Be mindful of our environment and relationships, as they can either invigorate us or drain our vital energy. Let's not waste mental energy on things that do not nourish us. Our thoughts, feelings, and emotions have the power to shape our physical bodies and greatly influence our experiences.

Quotes:

*"Once we live a conscious life, this moment of death can be enlightenment."

"Holding space, is witnessing someone and the light that comes out of them without trying to fix."

"Sometimes the opportunity to stop, pause, is the beginning of your healing."*

Topics Covered In This Episode:

End-of-life issues.
Home funerals and green burials.
Embracing the fact that death is coming.
Where do we go when we dream?
Grief rituals and healing.
Different approaches to death.
The process of dying.
Advanced Directives and Resources.
Legacy planning and digital assets.
Living life before we're dead.
Declining health and caregiver transitions.
Subtle bodies and energy healing.
The gift of each moment.

Get to know our guest speaker Gabi Dias:Insta: @goatgabi, @TheDeathTalk
Website: www.goatgabi.com

Important Links:
The 5 Wishes Document https://www.fivewishes.org/for-myself/
POLST: https://polst.org/

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SurvivingBreastCancer.org's Mission: To empower those diagnosed with breast cancer and their families from day one and beyond.

About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

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Follow us on Instagram
Laura and Will: https://www.instagram.com/laura_and_will/
SurvivingBreastCancer.org: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/

Support the show

This podcast episode features a conversation about breast cancer, advocacy, and medical PTSD. Host Laura Carfing introduces two guest authors, Brenda Denzler and Elaine Schattner, who share their experiences with breast cancer and discuss their books and writing. The episode also highlights the importance of finding purpose and meaning after a breast cancer diagnosis.

Topics In this Episode:
00:03:28 Finding purpose after breast cancer.
00:08:35 Mental health and breast cancer.
00:14:24 Importance of cancer awareness and perception.
00:25:44 Importance of patient advocacy.
00:39:21. Medical PTSD is real.
00:41:54 Importance of compassion in healthcare.
00:47:14 Early medical experiences can traumatize.
00:53:49 Consider self-publishing or hiring a ghostwriter.
00:57:39 Consider partnering with a ghostwriter.

About the Panelists:
Brenda is a writer and editor currently living in rural North Carolina. She is the author of numerous articles about cancer-related topics and treatment-related medical PTSD, including For My Own Good: Medical PTSD and Me as well as the founder and co-moderator of a support group for PTSD on Facebook.

When she is not writing--and has the energy--she tackles the upkeep on her property, and tries to get in some exercise (because after all, exercise is "the answer" for just about everything that ails ya', right?), enjoys being with her grandkids, and grabs most of her opportunities to spend time with friends. In her downtime, she is currently hooked on digital jigsaw puzzles as a suitable low-brain-demand activity. She is a doggie mom to two large and energetic puppies--which as she knows now is never (in her opinion) a good idea for older people! And she is owned by a geriatric cat, which is definitely more her speed.

Elaine Schattner is a physician, breast cancer survivor, and former oncologist whose book, From Whispers to Shouts: The Ways We Talk About Cancer, is published by Columbia University Press and was recently released as an audiobook. Her work explores public attitudes toward cancer through the history of cancer awareness campaigns, patient advocacy, and news including social media.

Dr. Schattner is a Clinical Associate Professor of Medicine at Weill Medical College. After her cancer diagnosis, she earned a master’s degree in journalism from Columbia University. Her freelance work has appeared in Aeon magazine, The Atlantic, NPR, Scientific American, the Washington Post, and elsewhere. She is a member of the American Society of Journalists and Authors and the Association of Health Care Journalists.

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SurvivingBreastCancer.org's Mission: To empower those diagnosed with breast cancer and their families from day one and beyond.

About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

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Follow us on Instagram
Laura and Will:

Support the show

In this podcast episode, Laura Carfing interviews Shelly Rosenfeld, the director of the Cancer Legal Resource Center. The center offers free legal resources to people impacted by cancer, including patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals. They provide confidential information and research on various legal topics related to cancer. Today's podcast episode delves into ADA policies, insurance coverage, and patient rights. The aim is to educate individuals about their rights and empower them to seek the resources they need during their cancer journey.

Topics in this Episode:
00:00:31 Legal resources for cancer patients.
00:10:23 Consider discussing accommodations with the employer.
00:15:50 Know your rights, seek support.
00:22:27 Accommodations are important for recovery.
00:24:09 Importance of communication and advocacy.
00:29:05 Financial resources for cancer treatment.
00:37:42 Advocate for yourself, ask questions.
00:38:04 Financial toxicity and advocacy.
00:42:41 Keep thriving.

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Important Links:
https://thedrlc.org/cancer/
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

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Follow us on Instagram
Laura and Will: https://www.instagram.com/laura_and_will/
SurvivingBreastCancer.org: https://www.instagram.com/survivingbreastcancerorg/

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SBC’s Mission: To empower those diagnosed with breast cancer and their families from day one and beyond.

About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

Support the show

In this episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, host Laura Carfing is joined by Dr. Stacey Devine, a board-certified family physician with a passion for disease prevention and holistic health. Dr. Devine discusses her journey from traditional medicine to integrative oncology and lifestyle medicine, highlighting the importance of addressing the root causes of illness and providing more natural treatment options. She emphasizes the impact of integrative oncology on the physical and emotional well-being of breast cancer patients and advocates for its inclusion in survivorship care. Tune in to learn more about the power of lifestyle management in reversing and preventing chronic diseases.

Topics discussed in this Episode:
00:03:23 Alternative and complementary care in breast cancer.
00:07:11. Integrative medicine empowers patient healing.
00:10:34 Integrative oncology treats the whole person.
00:16:04 Chemotherapy can cause weight gain.
00:18:01 Supporting patients through metabolic changes.
00:23:23 Focus on healthy behaviors, not weight.
00:27:38 Mindfulness and social connection are key.
00:31:11 Education and support for breast cancer survivors.
00:36:10 Integrative medicine improves overall well-being.

About our Guest: Dr. Stacey Devine:
Stacey Devine, MD, has been a board-certified family physician since 2000. While she
loved seeing people and treating diverse conditions, she became tired of surface-level
disease management. She longed to spend more time with her patients and go deeper
into the root cause of their illnesses. She also wanted to focus on disease prevention and holistic health and wellness. This led Dr. Devine to pursue fellowship training at the University of Arizona Andrew Weil Center for Integrative Medicine and board certification in Lifestyle Medicine. She has a solo practice in Davidson, NC, and helps people reverse and prevent chronic disease with lifestyle management and more natural treatment options. She has worked with many breast cancer survivors in her private practice and understands the impact of their treatments on their physical and emotional health. Integrative oncology and lifestyle medicine have a tremendous impact on their quality of life and she believes should be a standard part of survivorship care. She created an online course, Thriving After Breast Cancer®, to help breast cancer survivors heal from their treatments, reduce their risk of recurrence, and empower them to thrive.

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Follow us on Instagram
Laura and Will: https://www.instagram.com/laura_and_will/
SurvivingBreastCancer.org: https://www.instagram.com/survivingbreastcancerorg/

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SBC’s Mission: To empower those diagnosed with breast cancer and their families from day one and beyond.

About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

Support the show

Breast cancer research funding disparity is a significant issue that affects the progress and outcomes of finding the cure for metastatic breast cancer. Funding for breast cancer prevention and early-stage treatment, while important, does not address the specific challenges faced by those with metastatic breast cancer. Instead, if funding goes towards developing medications that can keep patients alive until a cure is found, not only those living with MBC would benefit, but so would anyone else diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer!

(In case you missed Part I, Unveiling the Realities of Metastatic Breast Cancer in October, you can catch it here!)

Topics Discussed
[00:02:11] Research dollars and the cure.

[00:07:28] Sense of betrayal in fundraising.

[00:09:38] Where does the money go?

[00:12:48] Research on metastatic breast cancer.

[00:18:34] Genomic testing importance.

[00:21:09] Not enough funding for research.

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Follow us on Instagram
Laura and Will: https://www.instagram.com/laura_and_will/
SurvivingBreastCancer.org: https://www.instagram.com/survivingbreastcancerorg/

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SBC’s Mission: To empower those diagnosed with breast cancer and their families from day one and beyond.

About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

Support the show

Our annual Pinktober MBC Panel on October 29 featured guests Megan-Claire Chase, Janice Cowden, Kathleen Friel, Victoria Goldberg, Claudia Gonzalez, Kirby Lewis, Amy Parliman, and Stephanie Walker.

In this episode, these women share their experiences living with metastatic breast cancer during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The panelists discuss how their perspectives have changed or evolved considering the realities of living with a terminal illness.

00:02:03 - "How do we bring more awareness to what's not pink?"
00:03:18 - "So what does October mean to us when everything is pink ribbon and you're living with a terminal illness?"
00:26:26 - "I felt very betrayed that I participated in something that I thought was one thing and was actually something different."
00:40:36 - "We are more than just the body parts."
00:44:58 - "I need to remember people who have gone and people who are still with us and I want to make sure that those who are newly coming into this, as Emily Garnett used to say, the worst community with the best people."

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In this episode, we discuss the use of ctDNA (circulating tumor DNA) in surveillance for breast cancer patients. Dr. Rodriguez, being a board-certified medical oncologist, has extensive experience in breast cancer oncology and has conducted clinical research in ctDNA application and breast cancer management.

Together we dive into the different stages of breast cancer, ranging from early stage (zero through stage three) to late stage (metastatic or de novo breast cancer) and highlight the importance of monitoring the effectiveness of treatments and understanding whether the medicine is working. This is where ctDNA surveillance plays a crucial role.

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:06:07 Understanding breast cancer recurrence.
00:11:27 Predicting cancer recurrence is complex.
00:20:07 Lifestyle changes reduce cancer recurrence.
00:24:13 Open communication with doctors is important.
00:30:06 Monitoring treatment effectiveness is challenging.
00:34:52 Circulating tumor DNA improves cancer detection.
00:42:00 Improving adherence to breast cancer treatment.

About Our Guest, Angel Augusto RodriguezDr. Angel Augusto Rodriguez is Oncology Medical Director at Natera. Natera is a company with expertise in cell-free DNA technology which delivers platforms in prenatal care, transplant medicine, and oncology. Dr. Rodriguez is a board certified medical oncologist and attended Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas where he completed his residency in Internal Medicine and fellowship in Hematology and Medical Oncology.

He was the recipient of a Komen for the Cure Multidisciplinary Breast Cancer grant and specialized in breast oncology at Baylor College of Medicine where he conducted clinical research in ctDNA application in breast cancer management.

Before joining Natera, Dr. Rodriguez practiced in Houston Methodist Cancer Center where he was Director of the Clinical Trials Office and led the Triple Negative Breast Cancer Clinic. He is based in Austin, Texas.

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Laura and Will: https://www.instagram.com/laura_and_will/
SurvivingBreastCancer.org: https://www.instagram.com/survivingbreastcancerorg/

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SBC’s Mission: To empower those diagnosed with breast cancer and their families from day one and beyond.

About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

Support the show

In this episode, Laura Carfang and Dr. Sophia Edwards-Bennett emphasize the importance of fully processing and learning from experiences before moving on. Through their discussion, they explain that with reflection and understanding, individuals can glean valuable lessons that inspire and help others.

When faced with adversity, there is often a lesson or message that we are meant to learn from the experience. However, in order to receive these lessons, we must be open and receptive. By fully processing and learning from their own adversity, individuals can then use their insights and experiences to support and inspire others facing similar challenges.

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:03:18 Radiation oncologist discusses breast cancer.
00:08:05 Divine guidance shapes career path.
00:17:51 Take time to process adversity.
00:21:48 Recognize your own strength.
00:31:31 The inner journey after cancer.
00:45:52 Soul currency is purposeful exchange.
00:46:24 Currency flows, courage breeds hope.
00:58:31 The ministry of medicine is about human connection.

About Our Guest, Dr. Sophia Edwards-Bennett
Sophia Edwards-Bennett, M.D., Ph.D., DABR is affectionately known to her patients as “Dr. EB.”

Dr. EB is a board-certified radiation oncologist who gained her medical and oncology postgraduate education from Harvard’s Cancer Therapeutics and Research Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and Cornell Medical College.

With over 15 years as a practicing oncologist, she has led the establishment and launching of radiation oncology centers nationally and internationally.

Dr. EB is not only passionate about cancer patients’ clinical care, but has excelled academically, authoring and co-authoring multiple peer-reviewed publications in the field of oncology, and has been an invited speaker at numerous national and international conferences.

Dr. EB has also been donned with many awards and accolades, including American Council Best in Medicine 2019-2020, Multiple Who’s Who Professional Awards including Marquis Who Who (highlighted in a recent interview with Star Jones), Lifetime Achievement Awards, Top Doctor in multiple states, Patient Choice Award, and Leading Physicians of the World, for her clinical contributions and prowess.

She is a best-selling author, and recently published her top new release book entitled The Path to Soul Immunity: $oul Currency for Life and the Big C with Dr. EB.

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Laura and Will: https://www.instagram.com/laura_and_will/
SurvivingBreastCancer.org: https://www.instagram.com/survivingbreastcancerorg/

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SBC’s Mission: To empower those diagnosed with breast cancer and their families from day one and beyond.

About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

Support the show

In this podcast episode, we speak with Carrie Danny, a mother of two daughters who are autistic. Carrie shares her experience of being a parent with MBC and the challenges she faces in raising her children. Carrie expresses her gratitude for being able to be there for her children despite the difficulties of a metastatic breast cancer diagnosis. The conversation also includes personal anecdotes about celebrating birthdays, having pets, and resources for moms living with MBC.

Topics Discussed in this Episode
00:02:18 Parenting with MBC: Challenges and Gratitude.
00:06:26 Reframing difficulties with gratitude and presence.
00:14:31 Embrace diversity and self-acceptance.
00:21:13 Educating others about personal challenges.
00:25:03 Open communication is important.
00:33:10 Open and honest communication about cancer.
00:39:09 Adapt parenting to accommodate limitations.
00:43:05 Importance of connection in parenting.
00:59:01 Legacy planning for children
01:01:07 Support and resources for parenting

About Our Guest, Carrie Danny
Homeschool Educator, Support Group Facilitator, Neurodiversity Advocate.

Carrie is living with Stage 4 Metastatic Breast Cancer that spread throughout her ribs, hips, spine, and skull in 2017. She is currently stable on oral chemo. She is a mom to two amazing kids with high support needs. Carrie, her children, and co-parent are all ADHD. " Every day of my life is a challenge and a gift I cherish!"

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Laura and Will: https://www.instagram.com/laura_and_will/
SurvivingBreastCancer.org: https://www.instagram.com/survivingbreastcancerorg/

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SBC's Mission: To empower those diagnosed with breast cancer and their families from day one and beyond.

About SurvivingBreastCancer.org.:SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a Federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

Support the show

Today Laura Carfang is joined with Amy Gallagher, who discusses her decision to have a prophylactic double mastectomy due to her positive BRCA1 mutation. Amy shares her personal journey with breast and ovarian cancer in her family, highlighting the importance of genetic testing and raising awareness about the potential for inherited mutations on the paternal side.

The episode concludes with an inspirational discussion about Amy's role as the executive director of Firefly Sisterhood, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting individuals diagnosed with breast cancer.

Topics Discussed:

00:04:57 Importance of genetic testing
00:17:04 Open communication with family and children
00:22:08 Support for breast cancer patients.
00:23:44 Supporting breast cancer patients through personalized mentorship.
00:28:21 Support for breast cancer patients.

Follow us on Instagram
Laura and Will: https://www.instagram.com/laura_and_will/
SurvivingBreastCancer.org: https://www.instagram.com/survivingbreastcancerorg/

About Amy Gallagher
Executive Director, Amy Gallagher, comes to Firefly Sisterhood in April 2021 with a deep connection to the mission of helping women diagnosed with breast cancer. Having an extensive family history of breast and ovarian cancer, Amy was prompted to be tested for genetic mutation in the BRCA1 gene which came back positive. In June 2017, Amy opted to have a prophylactic bilateral mastectomy to reduce her chance of developing breast cancer.

Amy has an extensive background in health and wellness non-profit work, especially those that help people diagnosed with cancer. She has strengths in event project management and logistics, volunteer and committee planning, fundraising and development and organizational strategic planning.

Having spent the last five years working alongside volunteers within breast cancer organizations, Amy understands the importance of the connections formed at Firefly Sisterhood. Ensuring that women have the support when they need it most is what motivates her every day.

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SBC's Mission: To empower those diagnosed with breast cancer and their families from day one and beyond.

About SurvivingBreastCancer.org.:SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a Federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

Website:
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/

Events:
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

Donate Now
Please consider making a donation.
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/donate-now

Support the show

In this episode, host Sanya Bawa, an amazing intern at SBC interviews Dr. Kulkarni, a pathology specialist, about the clinical perspective of a breast cancer diagnosis. Dr. Kulkarni discusses her journey in the field of pathology and how it offers a collaborative and constantly evolving approach to medicine. Dr. Kulkarni also highlights the importance of pathology in making accurate diagnoses by examining breast samples and biopsies. Our SBC Listeners gain insights into the challenges and advancements in breast cancer research and technology. Tune in to understand the clinical side of breast cancer and gain a new perspective on this diagnosis.

Topics covered in this episode:

"Understanding Breast Cancer: Insights from a Pathology Specialist"
"New Technologies and Research in Breast Cancer: A Clinical Perspective"
"The Importance of a Pathologist in Breast Cancer Diagnosis"
"Expert Advice on Breast Cancer Treatment and Resources"
"Empowering Patients and Families: A Conversation with Dr. Renuka Kulkarni"

About Dr. Kulkarni
Dr. Kulkarni completed her anatomic and clinical pathology residency at Saint Barnabas Medical Center, Livingston, New Jersey, followed by a surgical pathology fellowship at the Medical College of Georgia, Augusta. She received her medical degree from JJMM Medical College, India. Dr. Kulkarni has expertise in the areas of surgical pathology, immunohistochemistry, breast prognostic markers, and applications of whole slide imaging and image analysis. She is a member of the College of American Pathologists and the American Society of Clinical Pathologists.

As always, our podcasts are made possible thanks to donations from listeners like you. If you would like to support our nonprofit organization, please consider making a contribution through survivingbreastcancer.org/donate.

Don't forget to also check out all of our free programming and services available to anyone who has been diagnosed with breast cancer. Visit survivingbreastcancer.org/events for more information.

Thank you for being a part of our community and for supporting our mission to empower those diagnosed with breast cancer and their caregivers.

About SurvivingBreastCancer.org.

Survivingbreastcancer.org (SBC) was created in 2017 to help fill the gaps in breast cancer support, education, and resources. It was founded by Laura Carfang, who was recently diagnosed at that time in her early 30’s. Since 2017, SBC has grown exponentially, serving members in the global breast cancer community. Over these past few years, the SBC website has been visited by community members (over 1,000,000 page views) across 120+ plus countries, and Laura’s podcast, Breast Cancer Conversations has been listened to in over 80 countries.

Leveraging technology and breaking down barriers to access and information, SBC puts the patient first, educating, encouraging and inspiring advocacy. Community members are encouraged to participate in the various free programming, events and services and are all invited to contribute to resolving the growing needs of this population.

Website:
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/

Events:
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

Donate Now
Please consider making a donation.
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/donate-now

Support the show

In this episode, Laura Carfang interviews Dr. Kumar, the chairman and CEO of Anixa Biosciences , and Jenni Davis, the first recipient of the triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) vaccine, which is currently in preliminary clinical trial phases. The vaccine is designed to prevent recurrence of breast cancer in survivors and eventually prevent cancer onset in women and men who have never had breast cancer before. It specifically focuses on triple-negative breast cancer but may have the potential to prevent other types of breast cancer as well. Both Dr. Kumar and Jenni express excitement and hope for the future of the vaccine and its potential to improve breast cancer prevention and treatment.

Topics in this Episode:

[00:01:48] The triple negative breast cancer vaccine.

[00:04:30] Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.

[00:09:28] Reconstruction complications and alternatives.

[00:13:45] The brutal process of cancer.

[00:18:07] Eligibility for vaccine trial.

[00:19:41] The first human vaccine recipient.

[00:24:50] Clinical trials and their importance.

[00:27:59] Vaccine effectiveness in preventing breast cancer.

[00:31:01] Vaccinating against breast cancer.

[00:35:43] Vaccine side effects.

[00:39:45] Unique breast cancer trial.

[00:43:41] How the vaccine works.

[00:46:39] Eliminating breast cancer as a disease.

As always, our podcasts are made possible thanks to donations from listeners like you. If you would like to support our nonprofit organization, please consider making a contribution through survivingbreastcancer.org/donate.

Don't forget to also check out all of our free programming and services available to anyone who has been diagnosed with breast cancer. Visit survivingbreastcancer.org/events for more information.

Thank you for being a part of our community and for supporting our mission to empower those diagnosed with breast cancer and their caregivers.

About SurvivingBreastCancer.org.

Survivingbreastcancer.org (SBC) was created in 2017 to help fill the gaps in breast cancer support, education, and resources. It was founded by Laura Carfang, who was recently diagnosed at that time in her early 30’s. Since 2017, SBC has grown exponentially, serving members in the global breast cancer community. Over these past few years, the SBC website has been visited by community members (over 1,000,000 page views) across 120+ plus countries, and Laura’s podcast, Breast Cancer Conversations has been listened to in over 80 countries.

Leveraging technology and breaking down barriers to access and information, SBC puts the patient first, educating, encouraging and inspiring advocacy. Community members are encouraged to participate in the various free programming, events and services and are all invited to contribute to resolving the growing needs of this population.

Website:
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/

Donate Now
Please consider making a donation.
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/donate-now

Support the show

Support the show

In this episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, host Laura Carfang speaks with Derly Munoz, a physical therapist specializing in oncology. We discuss the importance of physical therapy for breast cancer patients and survivors, and Derly shares valuable insights and strategies for managing the physical challenges that can arise during and after treatment. Tune in to learn more about the role of physical therapy in breast cancer care and empowerment.

Follow our Guest @cancermindandbodyrehab on IG
Follow us @Survivingbreastcancerorg and @breastcancerconversations

Topics in this Episode:
[00:02:27] Physical therapy in oncology.
[00:03:50] Physical therapy in oncology.
[00:07:23] Lymphedema and cancer treatment.
[00:13:26] Exercise and body composition.
[00:14:11] Finding enjoyable ways to exercise.
[00:17:43] Managing cancer-related fatigue.
[00:22:35] After surgery exercise recommendations.
[00:25:33] Protective mood and posture.
[00:27:53] Independence and coffee mugs.
[00:33:02] Aquatic therapy for neuropathy.
[00:36:19] Physical therapy and patient neglect.
[00:39:02] Lymphedema prevention and LB bypasses.
[00:41:32] Auxiliary no dissection.

As always, our podcasts are made possible thanks to donations from listeners like you. If you would like to support our nonprofit organization, please consider making a contribution through survivingbreastcancer.org/donate.

Don't forget to also check out all of our free programming and services available to anyone who has been diagnosed with breast cancer. Visit survivingbreastcancer.org/events for more information.

Thank you for being a part of our community and for supporting our mission to empower those diagnosed with breast cancer and their caregivers.

About SurvivingBreastCancer.org.

Survivingbreastcancer.org (SBC) was created in 2017 to help fill the gaps in breast cancer support, education, and resources. It was founded by Laura Carfang, who was recently diagnosed at that time in her early 30’s. Since 2017, SBC has grown exponentially, serving members in the global breast cancer community. Over these past few years, the SBC website has been visited by community members (over 1,000,000 page views) across 120+ plus countries, and Laura’s podcast, Breast Cancer Conversations has been listened to in over 80 countries.

Leveraging technology and breaking down barriers to access and information, SBC puts the patient first, educating, encouraging and inspiring advocacy. Community members are encouraged to participate in the various free programming, events and services and are all invited to contribute to resolving the growing needs of this population.

Website:
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/

Donate Now
Please consider making a donation.
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/donate-now

Support the show

In this episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, host Laura Carfang is joined by Dr. Dibble and Dr. Rouch, two experts in breast cancer imaging. Dr. Dibble is a radiologist with expertise in nuclear medicine and molecular imaging, while Dr. Rouch is a professor of diagnostic radiology and the director of molecular breast imaging. Together, they discuss the latest advancements in breast cancer imaging and the importance of early detection. Tune in to learn more about the role of imaging in breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Topics in this Episode:
[00:01:55] Advanced functional imaging modalities.
[00:05:48] Breast imaging and breast cancer.
[00:09:32] What are you looking for when you're looking at these images?
[00:13:31] Breast density and cancer detection.
[00:16:20] Supplemental screening for high-risk individuals.
[00:19:13] False positives and breast cancer screening.
[00:23:07] Breast-specific gamma imaging.
[00:28:01] Decreasing radiation dose in MBIs.
[00:34:01] Molecular breast imaging availability.

As always, our podcasts are made possible thanks to donations from listeners like you. If you would like to support our nonprofit organization, please consider making a contribution through survivingbreastcancer.org/donate.

Don't forget to also check out all of our free programming and services available to anyone who has been diagnosed with breast cancer. Visit survivingbreastcancer.org/events for more information.

Thank you for being a part of our community and for supporting our mission to empower those diagnosed with breast cancer and their caregivers.

About SurvivingBreastCancer.org.

Survivingbreastcancer.org (SBC) was created in 2017 to help fill the gaps in breast cancer support, education, and resources. It was founded by Laura Carfang, who was recently diagnosed at that time in her early 30’s. Since 2017, SBC has grown exponentially, serving members in the global breast cancer community. Over these past few years, the SBC website has been visited by community members (over 1,000,000 page views) across 120+ plus countries, and Laura’s podcast, Breast Cancer Conversations has been listened to in over 80 countries.

Leveraging technology and breaking down barriers to access and information, SBC puts the patient first, educating, encouraging and inspiring advocacy. Community members are encouraged to participate in the various free programming, events and services and are all invited to contribute to resolving the growing needs of this population.

Website:
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/

Donate Now
Please consider making a donation.
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/donate-now

Support the show

I am thrilled to announce our latest podcast episode featuring Dr. Heather Jacene and Dr. Jennifer Specht. In this episode, we dive into the topic of nuclear medicine and its role in breast cancer treatment.

Dr. Jacene, Assistant Chief of Nuclear Medicine at Brigham and Women's Hospital and Clinical Director of Nuclear Medicine at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute shares her expertise on the latest advancements in nuclear medicine and how it can be used to detect and treat breast cancer. Dr. Specht, a medical oncologist who specializes in caring for patients with all stages of breast cancer., also joins us to provide insights on the patient experience and how nuclear medicine plays a critical role in monitoring treatment.
Topics in this Episode:

[00:02:31] Radio tracers for cancer therapy.
[00:03:23] Nuclear medicine imaging.
[00:09:17] FDG PET scan for cancer.
[00:10:57] Nuclear medicine for breast cancer.
[00:14:42] FDG PET scan for breast cancer.
[00:18:12] Breast cancer and bone attraction.
[00:21:33] FDG PET scan for bone metastases.
[00:25:21] Clinical trials for breast cancer.
[00:30:07] Imaging for Early Stage Disease.
[00:32:51] Cancer treatment and response rates.
[00:35:58] Therapeutic nuclear medicine.
[00:40:27] Nuclear medicine misconceptions.
[00:43:06] Getting involved with Surviving Breast Cancer.

As always, our podcasts are made possible thanks to donations from listeners like you. If you would like to support our nonprofit organization, please consider making a contribution through survivingbreastcancer.org/donate.

Don't forget to also check out all of our free programming and services available to anyone who has been diagnosed with breast cancer. Visit survivingbreastcancer.org/events for more information.

Thank you for being a part of our community and for supporting our mission to empower those diagnosed with breast cancer and their caregivers.

Support the show

In this episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, host Laura Carfang introduces guest Judith Fitzgerald, a 14-year breast cancer survivor and patient advocate. Judith is the founder of Sisters for Prevention, a company dedicated to supporting those newly diagnosed with breast cancer through education on diet and lifestyle strategies to reduce recurrence and primary prevention of the disease. She is also an advocate for women's health and has lobbied Congress for a women's health initiative to fund primary prevention clinical trials for women's cancer. Judith serves as an advocate for NIH, NCI and is a Koman advocate in science. Additionally, Judith is involved as an advocate for primary prevention vaccines currently in a phase one clinical trial at the Cleveland Clinic.

Topics Covered Include:
[01:10] Cancer prevention through lifestyle.
[00:03:49] Getting a second opinion.
[00:07:24] Diagnostic testing for women.
[00:11:25] Health and wellness tips.
[00:17:02] Exercise and cancer prevention.
[00:19:27] Hormones in Dairy and Children.
[00:23:58] Breast cancer preventive vaccine.
[00:26:54] Breaks for Breasts movement.
[00:30:55] Breast cancer vaccine delays.

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About SurvivingBreastCancer.org.

Survivingbreastcancer.org (SBC) was created in 2017 to help fill the gaps in breast cancer support, education, and resources. It was founded by Laura Carfang, who was recently diagnosed at that time in her early 30’s. Since 2017, SBC has grown exponentially, serving members in the global breast cancer community. Over these past few years, the SBC website has been visited by community members (over 1,000,000 page views) across 120+ plus countries, and Laura’s podcast, Breast Cancer Conversations has been listened to in over 80 countries.

Leveraging technology and breaking down barriers to access and information, SBC puts the patient first, educating, encouraging and inspiring advocacy. Community members are encouraged to participate in the various free programming, events and services and are all invited to contribute to resolving the growing needs of this population.

Website:
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/

Donate Now
Please consider making a donation.
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/donate-now

Support the show

Topics in today's episode:

Physical and mental tools to give hope to others. 3:47
How she discovered boxing. 7:55
The importance of having a tool belt in your bag. 11:27
The importance of walking after surgery. 18:09
What type of surgeries did you have? 20:45
The importance of having a support system. 26:58
How the macrobiotic diet helped her. 29:27
The power of diet and food. 33:50

About Kelly Motley

Kelly Motley is the author of The Fight for My Life: Boxing Through Chemo, which chronicles how boxing helped her to navigate a breast cancer diagnosis and chemotherapy. Kelly’s been interviewed on TV and her guest appearance on the biggest podcast in the boxing industry garnered more than 54K views. Ann Patchett’s Parnassus, one of the most celebrated Indie bookstores in America, hosted an in-person conversation event with Kelly about her book along with the Vanderbilt Bookstore and other independently owned bookstores.

The Fight for My Life received praise from bestselling authors such as Rebecca Wells the author of Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood. One of the world’s biggest Christian authors Stormie Omartian said,“Kelly Motley’s book is about spiritual hope and power and courageously getting into the ring when facing your worst enemy. In her case it is a formidable cancer opponent. This is one of the best written books I have read and there is an important lesson for everyone who reads it. She does not gloss over her raw feelings or her struggles as she has to deal with each new stage, disappointment, and complication. She faced her worst fears head on – including near death – and came out the other side stronger than ever. Whenever I have to face my worst fear or greatest enemy, I intend to read this book again to remind me how to do it.”

Kelly has owned her own public relations and brand marketing company, working with publicly traded companies, CEOs and entrepreneurs in Nashville’s $92 billion healthcare industry. She lands stories America’s top news sources. She and her husband of almost 30 years live in Nashville and they have two sons, a new daughter-in-law, a German Shepard named Chloe (who was written about in The WSJ) and chickens.

Buy the Book: https://thefightformylife.com/

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About SurvivingBreastCancer.org.

Survivingbreastcancer.org (SBC) was created in 2017 to help fill the gaps in breast cancer support, education, and resources. It was founded by Laura Carfang, who was recently diagnosed at that time in her early 30’s. Since 2017, SBC has grown exponentially, serving members in the global breast cancer community. Over these past few years the SBC website has been visited by community members (over 1,000,000 page views) across 120+ plus countries, and Laura’s podcast, Breast Cancer Conversations has been listened to in over 80 countries.

Leveraging technology and breaking down barriers to access and information, SBC puts the patient first, educating, encouraging and inspiring advocacy. Community members are encouraged to participate in the various free programming, events and services and are all invited to contribute to resolving the growing needs of this population.

Website:
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/

Donate Now
Please consider making a donation.
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/donate-now

Support the show

In this episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, Laura Carfang, founder of SurvivingBreastCancer.org, speaks with Jamie Fielder, a medical science liaison at Natara. The conversation centers around Signitera as well as genetic testing and the tools available for breast cancer patients to make informed decisions about their diagnosis and treatment plans. Fielder, previously a practicing nurse practitioner, manages a team of MSLs at Natara. The episode sheds light on the outstanding opportunities available to patients through Signitera, and the importance of informed decision-making in the breast cancer treatment process.

Topics Covered Include:

[00:02:21] Personalized cancer test.
[00:04:30] Circulating tumor DNA.
[00:09:08] Signetera's effectiveness in detecting CT DNA.
[00:11:50] Biomarkers in breast cancer.
[00:16:09] High-risk breast cancer.
[00:19:50] Genetic mutations and breast cancer.
[00:23:46] Genetic testing and breast cancer.
[00:30:23] Medicare coverage for Signatura.
[00:31:24] Breast Cancer Molecular Residual Disease.

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About SurvivingBreastCancer.org.

Survivingbreastcancer.org (SBC) was created in 2017 to help fill the gaps in breast cancer support, education, and resources. It was founded by Laura Carfang, who was recently diagnosed at that time in her early 30’s. Since 2017, SBC has grown exponentially, serving members in the global breast cancer community. Over these past few years, the SBC website has been visited by community members (over 1,000,000 page views) across 120+ plus countries, and Laura’s podcast, Breast Cancer Conversations has been listened to in over 80 countries.

Leveraging technology and breaking down barriers to access and information, SBC puts the patient first, educating, encouraging and inspiring advocacy. Community members are encouraged to participate in the various free programming, events and services and are all invited to contribute to resolving the growing needs of this population.

Website:
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/

Donate Now
Please consider making a donation.
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/donate-now

Support the show

In this episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, host Laura Carfang speaks with Dr. Dehdashti, a board-certified nuclear medicine expert and senior vice chair at the Washington University Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology. Dr. Dehdashti discusses her decades of experience in translational PET research and interpreting PET imaging studies, with a focus on receptor imaging in breast cancer. She shares her experience designing and executing clinical trials, including the first human use of the novel radiotracer Cerianna. This episode provides valuable insight into the field of nuclear medicine and its applications in oncology.
Topics Covered Include:
[00:01:20] Receptor Imaging in Breast Cancer.
[00:06:01] Developing estrogen receptor imaging agents.
[00:09:18] PET imaging in breast cancer.
[00:13:51] FES and breast cancer treatment.
[00:18:06] Functional Estrogen Receptors.
[00:23:11] Patient involvement in research.

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About SurvivingBreastCancer.org.

Survivingbreastcancer.org (SBC) was created in 2017 to help fill the gaps in breast cancer support, education, and resources. It was founded by Laura Carfang, who was recently diagnosed at that time in her early 30’s. Since 2017, SBC has grown exponentially, serving members in the global breast cancer community. Over these past few years, the SBC website has been visited by community members (over 1,000,000 page views) across 120+ plus countries, and Laura’s podcast, Breast Cancer Conversations has been listened to in over 80 countries.

Leveraging technology and breaking down barriers to access and information, SBC puts the patient first, educating, encouraging and inspiring advocacy. Community members are encouraged to participate in the various free programming, events and services and are all invited to contribute to resolving the growing needs of this population.

Website:
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/

Donate Now
Please consider making a donation.
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/donate-now

Support the show

In this episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, founder Laura Carfang turns the tables and interviews Board Director Abigail Johnston about her experience, living with metastatic breast cancer and her involvement as a fierce patient advocate. Abigail shares her inspiring story of being a change maker and connector within the breast cancer community, while also being a mom, wife, and cat momma. You can expect to be empowered by Abigail's words of wisdom and continued commitment to improving the lives of those affected by breast cancer.

[00:02:30] Living with metastatic disease.
[00:05:53] Genetic testing during fertility treatment.
[00:08:26] Genetic testing and family planning.
[00:11:39] Breastfeeding and Breast Cancer.
[00:17:11] Breastfeeding and breast cancer.
[00:19:54] Breast cancer diagnosis.
[00:25:26] Tumor markers and medical mistake.
[00:28:41] Doctor's empathy towards cancer diagnosis.
[00:32:49] The Limitations of Medical Tests.
[00:37:12] Caregiving and Therapy.
[00:41:01] Finding a cancer-experienced therapist.
[00:48:00] Metastatic Breast Cancer Research.
[00:49:29] Developing medication for early stage.
[00:53:00] Non-medical management in healthcare.
[00:56:29] Patient advocacy and empowerment.
[01:01:02] Surviving survivorship.

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About SurvivingBreastCancer.org.Survivingbreastcancer.org (SBC) was created in 2017 to help fill the gaps in breast cancer support, education, and resources. It was founded by Laura Carfang, who was recently diagnosed at that time in her early 30’s. Since 2017, SBC has grown exponentially, serving members in the global breast cancer community. Over these past few years the SBC website has been visited by community members (over 1,000,000 page views) across 120+ plus countries, and Laura’s podcast, Breast Cancer Conversations has been listened to in over 80 countries.

Leveraging technology and breaking down barriers to access and information, SBC puts the patient first, educating, encouraging and inspiring advocacy. Community members are encouraged to participate in the various free programming, events and services and are all invited to contribute to resolving the growing needs of this population.

Website:
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/

Donate Now
Please consider making a donation.
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/donate-now

Support the show

Topics in today's Episode:

Advice for women with genetic variants. 4:08
It’s not your fault. It is not. 16:43
Adriana’s experience with breast surgery. 25:38
What does it take for insurance to approve implants? 29:34
Being denied DIEP Flap due to BMI 33:47
The difference between the tram flap vs. the deep flap. 40:47
The problem with the old tram flap code. 45:19
Sharing the sacred stories of survivors. 52:25

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About SurvivingBreastCancer.org.

Survivingbreastcancer.org (SBC) was created in 2017 to help fill the gaps in breast cancer support, education, and resources. It was founded by Laura Carfang, who was recently diagnosed at that time in her early 30’s. Since 2017, SBC has grown exponentially, serving members in the global breast cancer community. Over these past few years, the SBC website has been visited by community members (over 1,000,000 page views) across 120+ plus countries, and Laura’s podcast, Breast Cancer Conversations has been listened to in over 80 countries.

Leveraging technology and breaking down barriers to access and information, SBC puts the patient first, educating, encouraging and inspiring advocacy. Community members are encouraged to participate in the various free programming, events and services and are all invited to contribute to resolving the growing needs of this population.

Website:
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/

Donate Now
Please consider making a donation.
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/donate-now

Support the show

In today's episode, Breast Cancer Advocate Christine Hodgdon provides a detailed list of the amazing non-profit organizations and resources that offer support, education, and community to those living with MBC.

The list is long but don't worry, we have you covered with the PDF so you can access the programs we mention!

Support the show

In today's episode, Breast Cancer Advocate Stephanie Walker provides a detailed list of the amazing non-profit organizations and resources that offer support, education, and community to those living with MBC.

The list is long but don't worry, we have you covered with the PDF so you can access the programs we mention!

Topics Covered:

Introduction to today’s episode. 1:20
Women of color and breast cancer. 2:48
The importance of talking about health issues in the community. 13:09
What Is survivorship? 18:14
Living out loud and beyond. 20:27
Advocates for women with cancer. 25:03

A podcast produced by Survivingbreastcancer.org
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/

Programs and Events:
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

Join our Mailing List
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/subscribe

Support the show

In today's episode, we speak with Michelle Stravitz, co-founder of 2Unstoppable, a non-profit focused specifically on exercise for those diagnosed with cancer.

Links:
https://2unstoppable.org/
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/

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The safety of exercising after a breast cancer diagnosis depends on a variety of factors, including the stage of cancer, the type of treatment received, and the individual's overall health and fitness level. In general, physical activity is encouraged for breast cancer survivors, as it can have many physical and emotional benefits, such as reducing the risk of recurrence, improving quality of life, and reducing fatigue.

However, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any exercise program. They can provide guidance on the types and intensity of exercise that are appropriate for the individual's specific situation. For example, someone who has recently undergone surgery or radiation therapy may need to modify their exercise routine until they have fully healed. Similarly, individuals with other health conditions may need to adjust their exercise program accordingly.

It is also important to listen to your body and stop exercising if you experience pain or discomfort. Gradually increasing the duration and intensity of exercise over time can help to prevent injury and improve overall fitness.

Support the show

Are you or someone you know living with a chronic illness and then on top of the underlying condition, get diagnosed with breast cancer? It's not uncommon! Today we bring the community together to discuss how breast cancer affects those already living with a chronic illness.

We all may suffer from one ailment or another from ADHD and anxiety to multiple sclerosis and Lyme disease. Join us for a panel discussion and opportunity to ask questions and share personal experiences. This October we shine the light on Breast Cancer And Other Illnesses.

Meet the Panelists:

Kathleen Friel, living with cerebral palsy AND metastatic breast cancer

Aneela Idnani, living with trichotillomania AND breast cancer

Lucy Kurz, living with a speech impediment, ADD and osteopenia, AND breast cancer

Melanie Contreras, living with a hearing impairment AND de Novo metastatic breast cancer.

Support the show

Support the show

In today's episode, we speak with Rod Ritchie, Bob Huebner & Vance Stacks, three men who all have been diagnosed with breast cancer. Yes, men can absolutely get breast cancer. While it is much less common in men than women, it still does happen and should not be ignored. Symptoms of breast cancer in men can include a lump or thickening in the chest area, breast tenderness or pain, nipple discharge (not milky), and changes to the shape or texture of the skin on the breast. Meet the men behind the ribbon! Welcome to the conversation!

Website:
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/

Support the show

Cancer is a difficult topic for anyone to discuss, but it's especially hard when you have to talk about it with your kids.

That's why we've brought together three experts and two children who have been through this before to help you navigate these conversations. They'll share their tips on what worked for them and what resources are available to support your family.

You're not alone when it comes to talking with your kids about breast cancer.

We know that it can be difficult to figure out what to say and when, but we have some resources for you today that will help. You want to make sure that you are providing the best support possible for your children and we want to help you do that.

Tune in now for our panel discussion about how to talk with your kids about breast cancer.

Resources:
Kesem
https://www.kesem.org/

Despues De Un Diagnostico
https://www.despuesdeundiagnostico.org/podcast

Survivingbreastcancer.org
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

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Resources in this episode:

Inflammatory breast cancer defined: proposed common diagnostic criteria to guide treatment and research:
https://42020577-8833-45e8-8058-fa42c092d058.usrfiles.com/ugd/420205_4cacf54d524c4cd6a67dd9ffcddb84be.pdf

Website:
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

Part I:

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We discuss Inflammatory Breast Cancer. A rare form of breast cancer that affects less than 5% of those diagnosed with breast cancer. Ginny Mason, from the Inflammatory Breast Cancer Research Foundation, was given a 3% chance of making it to 5 years. Today she is sharing her story 23 years later and the important research taking place in the IBC space.
Websites:
Survivingbreastcancer.org https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/eventsInflammatory Breast Cancer Research Foundation https://www.ibcresearch.org/

Support Groups
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/thursday-night-thrivers-meetup

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Laura and William share what they are most excited about heading into the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium.

Visit Survivingbreastcancer.org/events to learn more about all of our programs.

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Heidi was diagnosed with de novo metastatic breast cancer. After a year of treatment consisting mostly of chemotherapy, her brain was found to be affected by the disease as well. She has since undergone three gamma knife procedures. The side effects from the gamma knife have been manageable, mostly just fatigue and some cognitive difficulties. Despite all this, Heidi says she feels mentally stronger than before her diagnosis and is better able to prioritize what's important in her life.

Resources mentioned in this episode:
Survivingbreastcancer.org:
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/

Events
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

Heidi's Hope Box:
https://powerplanter.com/drills-and-augers/gardening-augers/pink-gardening-tools-for-breast-cancer-awareness-pink-october/

My Density Matters:
https://mydensitymatters.org/

Text "Check Your Chart" to 211411.

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Resources Mentioned:
NurseKristin.com:
http://www.nursekristin.com/

Fighting bc w/cannabis Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/158067737931960/?ref=sharehttps://www.facebook.com/groups/158067737931960/?ref=share&exp=9594

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About the presenters:

Amanda Raffenaud

Amanda has been living with state 4 metastatic breast cancer since 2018. Not only was she completely shocked to be diagnosed with breast cancer, de novo, at the age of 38, but she was shocked to learn it had spread to dozens of bones in her body. She had no early stage breast cancer diagnosis and was even under the care of a breast surgeon for four years prior to her metastatic diagnosis. Since diagnosis, she has been in active treatment for stage 4 cancer, undergoing countless bone infusions, multiple surgeries, chemotherapy lines, and monthly oncology visits. She is on her 8th line of treatment in 3 years to help stop the growth and spread of cancer. Currently she has mets to both breasts, lungs, liver, bones, and brain.

Amy Parliaman

Amy Ellen Parliman lives life by faith and enjoys spreading kindness. She has a passion for serving her community thru her career in healthcare. 26 years ago, she went to school to become a radiology technologist. She enjoys performing diagnostic imaging on her patients, she prides herself in safe and quality care. About 12 years ago she became a leader in her field and has moved into a leadership role in the Diagnostic Imaging Department.

On January 29, 2014 Amy became a Cancer patient. She underwent treatment for stage III breast cancer during 2014. She lived with NED until January 29, 2019 then she was told she had MBC. She is currently on her first line treatment. If the opportunity presents, she will share her various experiences of living after diagnosis.

Claudia Gonzalez

Claudia was born in Colombia, South America where she grew up surrounded by her parents, brother, sister, and many close-knit extended family members, including more than 20 aunts and uncles and 100 cousins. Looking for new opportunities, Claudia, her parents, and siblings made the United States their home in 1980. Moving to a new country, learning a new language, and leaving family and friends was a challenge for Claudia. In March of 2018, Claudia faced a bigger life challenge. She was diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer. A few weeks after the original diagnosis and after numerous tests she was informed the cancer cells had traveled to her bones and stage IV was added to her diagnosis. Claudia started her journey to treat this aggressive type of cancer in April 2018. Treatment included aggressive chemotherapy followed by a right mastectomy, one intense radiation to the lower vertebra, radiations to right chest and lymph nodes, and oral chemo that ended in September 2019. From October of 2019 to June of 2021 Claudia had - No Evidence of Disease (NED). A mammogram of her left breast done on June 8th, 2021, revealed two lumps. That same day a biopsy was completed and a few days later it was confirmed both tumors were again Tripple Negative Breast Cancer. The fear of recurrence unfortunately had become a reality for Claudia.

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A diagnosis of breast cancer can have a profound impact on a person’s life, both physically and emotionally. In addition to undergoing treatment and managing the side effects, many women are also faced with the challenge of maintaining their pelvic health. Pelvic floor disorders, such as incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse, are common in women who have had breast cancer, due to the damage caused by chemotherapy, injections, surgery, and radiation therapy. These disorders can be both embarrassing and debilitating, making it difficult for women to live their lives to the fullest. While there is no cure for menopause (medical or not), there are ways to manage the symptoms.

Connect with Beth Hoag:

· Website: www.bethhoagphysio.ca

· New Online program: https://beth-hoag.mykajabi.com/breast-cancer-surgery-recovery-program-long-form-sales-page-1-fb62b79e-c8af-4c7b-83a0-0c999d636f4e

· Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bethhoagphysio

· Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bethhoagphysio

· YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCI4LRJB7qW8dUqBJBgVvi8w

Connect with SurvivingBreastCancer.org (SBC):

Surviving Breast Cancer.org: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/

Connect with us on Social

YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/SURVIVINGBREASTCANCER
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/Survivingbreastcancerorg
Pinterest:https://www.pinterest.com/BreastCancerConversations/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SBC_org
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/survivingbreastcancerorg/

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Have you ever wondered how new therapeutic products are designed and created? We were also curious about this process, and decided to learn more about it from a few of our friends at NatraCure, a New Jersey-based therapeutics company and longtime partner of SBC. We sat down with Ben Tiffany, President of Sales and Marketing, Diane Lee, Director of Marketing, and Jim Bush, COO and Director of Product Development, along with Dr. Axia Soyano at Moffit Cancer Center in Tampa, Florida to discuss their unique cryotherapy product line: how it came to be, and how it works to prevent chemotherapy side effects and complications.

Cryotherapy primarily works by temporarily decreasing circulation in sensitive areas such as the hands and feet, which also limits the amount of chemotherapy that is able to reach and damage the many nerves in these areas. However, in creating a product for this purpose, it’s not as simple as it seems; there’s a lot that needs to be addressed, and input from patients is paramount in creating a successful, helpful therapy. Join us as we discuss the ins and outs of creating and distributing a cryotherapy line at NatraCure, and how they pledged to always make your comfort their goal. Welcome to the conversation!

Topics Discussed

Forging relationships between non-profit and for-profit organizations
Common clinical side effects of chemotherapies affecting quality of life, especially as women and/or long-term survivors
Lifestyle and chemotherapy product lines at NatraCure
Comparing new therapies to products already on the market
What cryotherapy is and how it can help chemotherapy side effects such as neuropathy
How cryotherapy products work to mitigate damage
Self-care and letting yourself rest as a cancer patient/survivor
Keeping the target population in mind and involved for future therapeutic development
Creating a mission statement

Resources Mentioned

NatraCure.com

NatraCure Hydrating Gloves: https://natracure.com/products/intense-hydrating-gel-gloves?_pos=8&_sid=2bd783da5&_ss=r

NatraCure Cold Therapy Products: https://natracure.com/collections/chemotherapy-products

NatraCure- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/natracurecomfort

NatraCure-Twitter: https://twitter.com/NatraCure

NatraCure- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/natracure/

NatraCure- Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@natracure?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc

Surviving Breast Cancer.org: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/

Connect with us on Social

YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/SURVIVINGBREASTCANCER
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/Survivingbreastcancerorg
Pinterest:https://www.pinterest.com/BreastCancerConversations/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SBC_org
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/survivingbreastcancerorg/
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Actions speak louder than words, but what if your love language is through writing, storytelling, or art? Today we speak with 25 women who are living with metastatic breast cancer. They share their definition of legacy and how they want to pass along their memories, traditions, and artifacts to the friends, family, and loved ones they will leave behind.

It's never too early to leave your mark on the world. Acts of kindness go a long way and people will remember how you made them feel. In today's episode you will hear the inspiring and creative ways have a lasting impact on future generations to come.

Sex is everywhere, whether it’s on your tv screen, a book you’re reading, or on social media. Yet, sexual health is a taboo subject for many people, and when undergoing cancer treatment, it can disrupt people’s day-to-day lives. In this episode we speak with Dr. Sharon Bober from Dana Farber Cancer Institute about the sexual health challenges breast cancer patients face, the effect cancer treatment has on the body, and how it affects sexual relationships.

Sexual health needs to be a part of the conversation when speaking with oncologists. Just like being asked about various side effects asking about one’s sexual health while going through treatment should also be commonplace. We need to elevate survivorship voices and the long-term challenges we face. Learn what steps you can take to restore your sexual health and how to navigate these conversations with your medical providers. Welcome to the Conversation!

Topics Discussed:

The effects breast cancer treatment has on the body and how it affects sex
Resources and support provided on sexual health for cancer survivors
Menopause and how it affects breast cancer survivors
Body image and the role it plays in our sexual health and breast cancer
Ovarian suppression treatment and the side effects it has on sexual health
Sex and sexual health is still taboo, even with all of the studies and information on how it affects cancer survivors
It needs to be part of the conversation and should be talked about as often as when asked about other side effects
Elevate survivorship voices

Resources Mentioned:

Multidisciplinary clinic at Dana Farber in Boston https://www.dana-farber.org/for-patients-and-families/care-and-treatment/support-services-and-amenities/sexual-health-program/

The scientific network for female and sexual health and cancer

https://www.cancersexnetwork.org/

North American Menopause Society website

https://www.menopause.org/

Recommendations/guidelines:

NCCN https://www.nccn.org/guidelines/guidelines-detail

ASCO https://www.asco.org/practice-patients/guidelines

SurvivingBreastCancer Resources:
Website: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/
Events: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

Today we speak with breast cancer survivor and art therapist, Stephanie McLeod-Estevez! After loosing her mother to metastatic breast cancer, Stephanie was diagnosed with TNBC and found out she was BRCA2+. Learn not only about her personal breast cancer story but how turning to art has helped her heal!

Learn more about Stephanie and her work at :
https://creative-transformations.com/

Check out her book, Beautiful Boobs:
https://beautifulboobsthebook.com/

Attend an event:https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

Read our blog:https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/breast-cancer-blog

Follow us on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/survivingbreastcancerorg/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SBC_org
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/Survivingbreastcancerorg

Megan-Claire Chase is a black southern bell who shares her experience of being a black woman diagnosed with lobular breast cancer. This episode brings to light conversations the tough conversations about race and how we can all become better allies.

Today we meet the Survivingbreastcancer.org MBC Leadership Team.
Angela Rose, Dawn Oswald, Kathleen Friel, and Kristen Carter.

You know the expression put your oxygen mask on first before helping others, well, the same applies for caregivers. If you are in a caregiving role Ammie share's her toolkit of what has worked for her and her husband, Jose. She provides concrete examples of how these tools and methodologies work for her in her household.

Ammie's website: https://caregiversguidetocancer.com/
Download Resources: https://caregiversguidetocancer.com/resources/

About Surviving Breast Cancer:
SurvivingBreastCancer.org (SBC), a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, is to empower those diagnosed with breast cancer and their families from day one and beyond.

Learn More:
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/

Attend a support group, virtual program, workshop, and event:
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

Have a story to share, let us know!
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/submit-breast-cancer-story

Join us today as we speak with Podcaster and Book Author, Jen Delvaux! Jen and I talk about all things related to breast cancer survivorship.

You can find out more about Jen via:
Website: www. jendelvaux.com
Instagram: Instagram.com/jendelvaux
Podcast: No Today Cancer

About Surviving Breast Cancer:
SurvivingBreastCancer.org (SBC), a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, is to empower those diagnosed with breast cancer and their families from day one and beyond.

Learn More:
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/

Attend a support group, virtual program, workshop, and event:
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

Have a story to share, let us know!
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/submit-breast-cancer-story

TJ Hills joins us today to discuss her stage III breast cancer diagnosis; estrogen gene testing; and Nutrigenomics. More information about TJ Hills can be found on her website at https://betterestrogen.com/

Survivingbreastcancer.org is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit supporting those diagnosed with breast cancer from day one and beyond. Thank you for subscribing and tuning in to Breast Cancer Conversations, the podcast!

Join our Survivingbreastcancer.org community:https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/

Become a member:https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/community

Attend an event:https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

Read our blog:https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/breast-cancer-blog

Follow us on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/survivingbreastcancerorg/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SBC_org
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/Survivingbreastcancerorg

Everything you need to know about Medicare.

Visit us at Surviving Breast Cancer:
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/

Join a support group or attend an event or webinar:
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

In today's episode we speak with Christine Hodgon and Julia Maues, co-founders of GRASPCancer.org. GRAPS connects advocates and cancer researchers to advance breakthroughs.

Welcome to the conversation!

About our guests:Christine Hodgdon was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer in 2015. Christine brings a background in biology and nonprofit programming to her work of curating cutting-edge research and interfacing with patients and research partners. She has worked with leading research organizations, medical centers and government agencies to ensure the patient voice is represented early and often. She is also the founder of the Storm Riders Network, a website that shares the latest breast cancer research, treatments and clinical trials.

Julia Maués was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2013 while pregnant. Following the birth of a healthy baby boy, Julia did tests she couldn’t do while pregnant and discovered the cancer had spread to her brain, liver, and bones. After many treatment setbacks, her cancer began to respond to treatment. Cancer is part of Julia’s life, but it doesn’t define her. Her goal is to make an impact while she is alive in the lives of others dealing with this disease. She has found meaning and purpose in working with patients and researchers to make cancer research more patient-centered, innovative and inclusive.

Listen to Part I:
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/podcast/episode/7a6d6bc3/158-hope-with-julia-maues-and-christine-hodgdon

About Surviving Breast Cancer:
SurvivingBreastCancer.org (SBC), a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, is to empower those diagnosed with breast cancer and their families from day one and beyond.

Learn More:
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/

Attend a support group, virtual program, workshop, and event:
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

Have a story to share, let us know!
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/submit-breast-cancer-story

Have you been screened for a genetic predisposition towards breast cancer? I have. My results returned a "Variant of Unknown Significance", or VUS.

What is a Variant of Unknown Significance?

It’s a common question and I am pleased to have Dr. Mártir-Negrón, a medical geneticist at Miami Cancer Institute, part of Baptist Health South Florida, and trained in internal medicine, genetic diagnosis and the treatment of patients with hereditary disorders to help answer this question!

Laura: Dr. Mártir-Negrón, I understand when we get our genetic testing back and read through the results, sometimes we get what is called a variant of unknown significance, also referred to as VUS. Can you explain what this means and how it impacts breast cancer treatment decisions?

Dr. Mártir-Negrón: What a variant of unknown significance means is that there was a change that was found in you. But guess what, we all have changes in our genes; that’s what makes us unique and who we are. The only ones that we know will cause problems are the ones that we call pathogenic.

Based on data, we know that 90% of these inconclusive changes are benign. At the lab we'll continue to review, and when there is more data, they will reach out to whoever ordered the test to inform them of any new findings. The person who ordered the test is the one that is going to receive the reclassification. Again, 90% of the cases are benign, so we call it negative until proven otherwise.

In terms of treatment, we don't do anything with that information and no action is taken. But, if we give recommendations, it's not because of the inconclusive work, it’s what we're seeing in terms of one’s family history. With the inconclusive result, you're always going to have that change, you were born with that change. What it changes is our interpretation.

When we see that somebody has a variant of unknown significance or is inconclusive, we look at ClinVar. ClinVar is a part of the National Institute of Health and aggregates information about genomic variation and its relationship to human health. Obviously, no names or personal data are disclosed. What we do is when we see any inconclusives, we will look at ClinVar to see what all the labs are saying.

Laura Carfang: That's such a great point. ClinVar is a freely available public archive of human genetic variations and interpretations of the relationships to disease and other conditions.

Abigail Johnston: Just another reason why talking to the right doctor about the right topic is so important. Dr. Mártir-Negrón is a geneticist, you don't mind saying you don't know, whereas other doctors in other specialties often avoid saying "I don't know something" and it's very important to remember that.

Julia and Christine are both living with Metastatic Breast Cancer and share their personal experiences with breast cancer and how they live by example providing hope for those in our breast cancer community!
About our guests:
Christine Hodgdon was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer in 2015. Christine brings a background in biology and nonprofit programming to her work of curating cutting-edge research and interfacing with patients and research partners. She has worked with leading research organizations, medical centers and government agencies to ensure the patient voice is represented early and often. She is also the founder of the Storm Riders Network, a website that shares the latest breast cancer research, treatments and clinical trials.

Julia Maués was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2013 while pregnant. Following the birth of a healthy baby boy, Julia did tests she couldn’t do while pregnant and discovered the cancer had spread to her brain, liver, and bones. After many treatment setbacks, her cancer began to respond to treatment. Cancer is part of Julia’s life, but it doesn’t define her. Her goal is to make an impact while she is alive in the lives of others dealing with this disease. She has found meaning and purpose in working with patients and researchers to make cancer research more patient-centered, innovative and inclusive.

Check out their website: https://graspcancer.org/about/

Surviving Breast Cancer ResourcesWebsite: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/
Webinars, programs, and events: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events
Articles: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/breast-cancer-blog

Amy Ellen Parliman lives life by faith and enjoys spreading kindness. She has a passion for serving her community thru her career in healthcare. 26 years ago, she went to school to become a radiology technologist. She enjoys performing diagnostic imaging on her patients, she prides herself in safe and quality care. About 12 years ago she became a leader in her field and has moved into a leadership role in the Diagnostic Imaging Department.

She worked in mobile imaging for 13 years, she recently changed jobs to reenter the hospital scene. She enjoys sharing her skills in diagnostic imaging with newer technologist. Her thoughts are to create an environment that is warm and inviting for patients during some of the worse times of their lives. She lives by a code to treat all of her patients like she wants her parents treated. Her goal is a smile or maybe a laugh while caring for her patients. Over the years she has been able to learn from her patients and team.

On January 29, 2014 Amy became a Cancer patient. She underwent treatment for stage III breast cancer during 2014. She lived with NED until January 29, 2019 then she was told she had MBC. She is currently on her first line treatment. If the opportunity presents, she will share her various experiences of living after diagnosis.

She earned her MHA (Masters in Health Administration) from the University of Scranton in May 2021. Her goal is to take her passion of inspiring others to provide quality patient care and sharing her experiences as a patient and a worker in healthcare to a new level of leadership. If you are reading this, she would love for you to know don’t dream it, DO IT!

She has been serving the Breast Community by moderating Living One day at a time with metastatic cancer on Facebook. Her goal is to continue to work with members of this site and create more intimate relationships among the women in the group. Amy is excited to start a new chapter of sharing her story by being part of Living Beyond Breast Cancer “Hear My Voice” class of 2022 outreach program.

She loves the outdoors. She enjoys attending live sporting events. She and her husband are making their way around to all of the baseball stadiums. She loves football, she was even fan of the year for the Philadelphia Eagles and attended spring training in 2005.

She loves being an Aunt. She is a Georgia peach who currently lives in Upstate New York with her husband and 2 fur babies Oliver and Ziva.

Website
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/

Events:
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

The link for the Triple Negative group (uk only) is https://www.facebook.com/groups/704115853080943

and for the palb2 group (international) https://www.facebook.com/groups/113514819289505

Tara Coyote is the owner of a horse retreat center, Wind Horse Sanctuary in Kaua’i, Hawaii, which was formally located in Northern CA.

She is a certified Equine Facilitated Learning teacher and a life coach.

Over the years, she has guided hundreds of people with private sessions, group workshops and ‘Grief Rituals with Horses’.

Tara has also been diagnosed with late stage breast cancer since September, 2016. She currently manages her diagnosis with complimentary methods: a blend of conventional and non-toxic approaches.

Tara has been publicly sharing her health journey through her blog, YouTube channel and social media. She is very grateful to be alive after being recommended to hospice in the spring of 2019 with 6 months to live.

She is currently thriving on her island in Kaua’i living off the grid in a yurt with her animals. Tara’s memoir ‘Grace, Grit & Gratitude: A Cancer Thriver’s Journey from Hospice to Full Recovery with the Healing Power of Horses’ is a #1 bestseller on Amazon in eight different categories!

Tara writes about overcoming adversity, a deep dive into the challenges that come from loss, her own harrowing health journey and how her horses have played a significant role in her miraculous healing with cancer.

Tara believes it is always possible to find beauty within the greatest tragedy and that every challenge enables us to reach our highest growth!

Twitter Handle: @TaraCoyote

Instagram Handle: @TaraCoyote @gracegritgratitudebook

Purchase Grace Grit & Gratitude by Tara Coyotte:
https://www.amazon.com/Grace-Grit-Gratitude-Thrivers-Recovery-ebook/dp/B09C2PNY54

Visit https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/
Events: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

Grace, Grit & Gratitude: A Cancer Thriver's Journey from Hospice to Full Recovery with the Healing Power of Horses

In this episode we offer insights on how to support your kids through your breast cancer diagnosis as they process what is taking place. Depending on the ages of your children, they will have different levels of understanding. We explore these variables, share tactics and leave you with examples. You are not alone in these conversations!

The Wisdom Study is determined to identify the safest and best way to detect breast cancer.

The WISDOM Study compares two approved screening approaches: annual mammograms for all women, starting at the age of 40 or a personalized approach to breast screening that is based on a woman’s individual risk factors for breast cancer, like her breast density, genes, and family health history.

Today we speak with Dr. Barbara Parker, one of the lead oncologists in the study along with Heather Mann, one of the study's participants as we discuss:

-Personalized breast cancer screening modalities
-High Risk
-Low Risk
-Breast Density
-Early Detection
-Genetic panels

And so much more!
Welcome to the conversation

If you are interested in finding out more about the Wisdom Study and getting involved, check out https://www.thewisdomstudy.org/

If you would like to learn more about Surviving Breast Cancer and attending any of our free events and programs, visit us at https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

"Music Heals Wounds that Medicine Cannot Touch" - David Victor

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Harmony and Healing Website: https://www.harmonyandhealing.org/
Surviving Breast Cancer Website: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/
Surviving Breast Cancer upcoming Events: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

Shop Amoena:
https://www.amoena.com/us-en

Listen to Part I with Andrea: No Evidence of Disease 30 Years Later:
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/podcast/episode/4c0cf38c/145-no-evidence-of-disease-30-years-later

When you are diagnosed with breast cancer it is devastating. When you find out your friend has breast cancer, it can trigger PTSD, flashbacks of your own diagnosis, empathy for what your friend is about to endure, and a willingness to help, support, and be there for her.

We often get asks from friends, what can they do to support someone who has recently been diagnosed with breast cancer. Similarly, those of us living with a diagnosis often talk about what not to say to someone with a recent diagnosis. Sometimes even the most helpful words of encouragement or best intentions can rub someone the wrong way. What better way to explore this conversation than to invite Candace Bloomstrand to interview her friend, Lauren Rampello what it was like to be diagnosed with breast cancer under 35, run a successful business, and explore how friends can offer support, knowing that the support you may request one day may look different a day, week, or month down the line.

Welcome to the conversation.

Guests:
Candace Bloomstrand
Lauren Rampello, owner and founder of Pure Glow:
https://www.pureglow.com/

You may also like listening to:
126. Why is "How Are You?" Such A Weighted Question?
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/podcast/episode/49ffc847/126-why-is-how-are-you-such-a-weighted-question

7 - Caregiving
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/podcast/episode/bff40f00/7-caregiving

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♡ More about Survivingbreastcancer.org and ways to connect~

⟡ Visit our Website
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org

⟡ Attend an Event
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

⟡ Follow us on Twitter @SBC_ORG
https://twitter.com/SBC_org

⟡ SurvivingBreastCancer.org on Instagram @survivingbreastcancer.org
https://www.instagram.com/survivingbreastcancerorg/

⟡ Breast Cancer Conversations on Instagram

When you’re busy running a thriving business, living a healthy life-style, and too young for routine mammograms - because you are not considered high risk, why would you ever think you would be diagnosed with breast cancer?

After a series of people telling her that she was too young for breast cancer, Lauren ended up being diagnosed under the age of 35. Today Lauren shares her story about how she was able to navigate an aggressive treatment regimen, relied on friends, family and colleagues to maintain her business, and all of this with the COVID-19 pandemic as the backdrop.

Welcome to the conversation.

Guests:
Candace Bloomstrand
Lauren Rampello, owner and founder of Pure Glow:
https://www.pureglow.com/

You may also Enjoy listening to:
134. Stage 3 Breast Cancer Under 40 How to Tell Your Little Ones with Denise and Joanie
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/podcast/episode/4d1b5066/134-stage-3-breast-cancer-under-40-how-to-tell-your-little-ones-with-denise-and-joanie

TNBC Metaplastic Breast Cancer | Jess Duemig
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/podcast/episode/4afb0ff3/107-tnbc-metaplastic-breast-cancer-or-jess-duemig

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⟡ Breast Cancer Conversations on Instagram

Today on Breast Cancer Conversations, we continue the conversation of germline breast cancer mutations and the weighted complexities of passing on genes that may lead to developing breast cancer, or other types of cancer. We are joined by:

Dr. Mártir-Negrón: a medical geneticist at Miami Cancer Institute, a world class cancer center part of Baptist Health South Florida. Dr. Mártir-Negrón, is trained in internal medicine, genetic diagnosis and the treatment of patients with hereditary disorders. Dr. Mártir-Negrón, is board certified in medical genetics and internal medicine. Her clinical interests include genetic cancer risk assessment, breast cancer, colon cancer and ovarian cancer. We are also joined today with a panel of women, moms, and daughters, who have all been affected by either breast cancer or a germline genetic mutation, which increases one's risk for developing cancer.

Abigail Johnston: who is living with metastatic stage iv breast cancer and carries the ATM gene Abigail’s mother, Beverly Schroeder who was diagnosed with early stage breast cancer only to discover later on that she too carries the ATM gene.

Trish Chambers Balas three-time breast cancer survivor joins us with her daughter Maddie Balas.

We also have Stephanie McLeod Estevez. After losing her mom to metastatic breast cancer, Stephanie decided not to rush into getting genetic testing. She focused on grieving the loss of her mother and starting her own family. It wasn't till after she became a mom and was diagnosed with breast cancer herself, that she discovered that she carries the BRCA2 genetic mutation.

We don't have any control of our genes. Let me just start it with that. Our genes are the things that are in our DNA, it is something that we have no control over. This is not about blame. This is not about looking at somebody and saying it's your fault. It's about how do you deal with a genetic mutation that runs in a family. Welcome to the conversation.
Episodes you may also like:
Understanding the Complexities of Genetic Testinghttps://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/podcast/episode/c045cfab/49-understanding-the-complexities-of-genetic-testing-an-interview-with-genetics-counselor-fatima-amir-ms-lgc

Lymphedema, the ATM Gene & Humor:https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/podcast/episode/c09b7b3c/18-the-boob-ambassador-lymphedema-the-atm-gene-and-humor

Join our Survivingbreastcancer.org community:https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/

Become a member:https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/community

Attend an event:https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

Read our blog:https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/breast-cancer-blog

Follow us on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/survivingbreastcancerorg/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SBC_org
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/Survivingbreastcancerorg

Today on Breast Cancer Conversations, we discuss germline breast cancer mutations and the weighted complexities of passing on genes that may lead to developing breast cancer, or other types of cancer. We are joined by:

Dr. Mártir-Negrón: a medical geneticist at Miami Cancer Institute, a world class cancer center part of Baptist Health South Florida. Dr. Mártir-Negrón, is trained in internal medicine, genetic diagnosis and the treatment of patients with hereditary disorders. Dr. Mártir-Negrón, is board certified in medical genetics and internal medicine. Her clinical interests include genetic cancer risk assessment, breast cancer, colon cancer and ovarian cancer. We are also joined today with a panel of women, moms, and daughters, who have all been affected by either breast cancer or a germline genetic mutation, which increases one's risk for developing cancer.

Abigail Johnston: who is living with metastatic stage iv breast cancer and carries the ATM gene Abigail’s mother, Beverly Schroeder who was diagnosed with early stage breast cancer only to discover later on that she too carries the ATM gene.

Trish Chambers Balas three-time breast cancer survivor joins us with her daughter Maddie Balas.

We also have Stephanie McLeod Estevez. After losing her mom to metastatic breast cancer, Stephanie decided not to rush into getting genetic testing. She focused on grieving the loss of her mother and starting her own family. It wasn't till after she became a mom and was diagnosed with breast cancer herself, that she discovered that she carries the BRCA2 genetic mutation.

We don't have any control of our genes. Let me just start it with that. Our genes are the things that are in our DNA, it is something that we have no control over. This is not about blame. This is not about looking at somebody and saying it's your fault. It's about how do you deal with a genetic mutation that runs in a family. Welcome to the conversation.
Episodes you may also like:
Understanding the Complexities of Genetic Testinghttps://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/podcast/episode/c045cfab/49-understanding-the-complexities-of-genetic-testing-an-interview-with-genetics-counselor-fatima-amir-ms-lgc

Lymphedema, the ATM Gene & Humor:https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/podcast/episode/c09b7b3c/18-the-boob-ambassador-lymphedema-the-atm-gene-and-humor

Join our Survivingbreastcancer.org community:https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/

Become a member:https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/community

Attend an event:https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

Read our blog:https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/breast-cancer-blog

Follow us on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/survivingbreastcancerorg/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SBC_org
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/Survivingbreastcancerorg

Today on Breast Cancer Conversations we talk about peer-to-peer mentoring as a resource for those diagnosed with breast cancer. Sometimes you just need to talk it out with someone who gets it; with someone who has been there and has walked in your shoes. Today on the panel we are joined by Stephanie Walker representing the Chrysalis Initiative, Ellen Schupper, Executive Director of ABCD, After Breast Cancer Diagnosis, and Leslie Glenn, Founder and CEO of Project Life.

**Resources Mentioned:

ABCD (After Breast Cancer Diagnosis)https://abcdbreastcancersupport.org/
The Chrysalis initiative**https://thechrysalisinitiative.org/

Share Cancer Support Helpline: https://www.sharecancersupport.org/support/about-us-helpline/

More Episodes from Breast Cancer Conversations that you may also like:Courage to Go Deeper with 2x Breast Cancer Survivor Elisabeth Perucca
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/podcast/episode/4bd1f9ca/132-courage-to-go-deeper-with-2x-breast-cancer-survivor-elisabeth-perucca

Cancer Recurrence and the Power of Twitter https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/podcast/episode/4a3590e4/122-cancer-recurrence-and-the-power-of-twitter

Join our Survivingbreastcancer.org community:https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/

Become a member:https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/community

Attend an event:https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

Read our blog:https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/breast-cancer-blog

Follow us on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/survivingbreastcancerorg/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SBC_org
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/Survivingbreastcancerorg

Today on Breast Cancer Conversations we talk about helplines as a resource for those of us diagnosed with breast cancer. Sometimes you just need to talk it out with someone and even more than once! Today on the panel we are joined by Stefanie Washburn, who is the outreach manager at Living Beyond Breast Cancer, Natalia Padrone who is a helpline volunteer at LBBC, and Victoria Goldberg from Share Cancer Support.

Welcome to the conversation.

Resources Mentioned:
Living Beyond Breast Cancer Helpline:https://www.lbbc.org/helpline#:~:text=Details%3A,of%20support%20you%20are%20seeking.

Share Cancer Support Helpline: https://www.sharecancersupport.org/support/about-us-helpline/

More **Episodes from Breast Cancer Conversations that you may also like:

Kandace McMenomy | Diagnosed at age 30. Stage II to Stage IV and why she keeps running**
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/podcast/episode/c0f76cb8/45-kandace-mcmenomy-or-diagnosed-at-age-30-stage-ii-to-stage-iv-and-why-she-keeps-running-marathons

10 Years TNBC Survivor and the Survivorship Movement with Judy Pearsonhttps://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/podcast/episode/49d3180e/130-10-years-tnbc-survivor-and-the-survivorship-movement-with-judy-pearson

Join our Survivingbreastcancer.org community:https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/

Become a member:https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/community

Attend an event:https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

Read our blog:https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/breast-cancer-blog

Follow us on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/survivingbreastcancerorg/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SBC_org
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/Survivingbreastcancerorg

Today on Breast Cancer Conversations I'm joined by Dr. Bardia, a Board Certified Medical Oncologist interested in developing successful, targeted and personalized therapies to improve the outcomes of patients and families affected by breast cancer.

Dr. Bardia is involved in clinical development of tumor genotyping, as well as circulating tumor cells to facilitate accurate diagnosis, therapy selection, and real time monitoring of breast cancer. Dr. Bardia is the primary investigator of clinical trials investigating the role of targeted therapy combinations for breast cancer, and is the recipient of the Young Investigator Award from ASCO Conquer Cancer Foundation.

I am also joined by two other amazing women, Janice Cowden and Keegan Hitchcock, both living with metastatic TNBC. Janice was diagnosed with stage four metastatic triple negative breast cancer in 2016. With a 20 plus year background in nursing, science, research and studying disease, it is no surprise that Janice became a Patient Advocate. Her advocacy work has included working with organizations like METAvivor, Living Beyond Breast Cancer, ABCD after breast cancer diagnosis, among others.

I am also so excited because I am joined by Keegan Hitchcock. Keegan is 41 years old, born and raised in Florida, where she had a professional career as a face and body painter for over 20 years. Her interests include reading and consuming lots of podcasts, including anything from spooky stories and humor, to the lesser known history, critical thinking and science. She loves watching and discussing nerdy TV shows and movies with friends, roller-skating, and spoiling her two cats. She now lives in Maryland near family where she continues to work at a national health food store doing price integrity. Her original diagnosis was in May of 2019 with stage three triple negative invasive ductal carcinoma. As of April 2021, she has been re-diagnosed with a recurrence stage four metastatic triple negative breast cancer.

Welcome to the conversation.

In today's episode, we speak with Olivia Achtmeyer Boger, founder and executive director of Runway for Recovery, and Meredith Mendelson, executive director of the Ellie Fund. Both women lost their mothers to metastatic breast cancer and are doing incredibly impactful work with their non-profits.

Today's hot topics cover:

Resources provided by Runway for Recovery & the Ellie Fund
How no one knew Olivia's mom was living with MBC, including her own children!
Why language matters and recommendations for choosing compassionate words
What is The Pink Umbrella?

Welcome to the conversation.

Resources Mentioned:
The Ellie Fund
Runway for Recovery

Episodes you may also enjoy:
Creative Projects for Leaving a Legacy
My Mom Has Breast Cancer, Now What?
What is Grief and Giving Yourself Permission

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Gloria, a Reiki Master, shares her ah-ha moments in her healing journey. Diagnosed with lobular breast cancer, Gloria decided to listen to her intuition and heal herself from decades of stress, trauma, grief, and loss. Today she is living her best life with a new found sense of self-love and a deeper appreciation for the healing energies that are all around us!

Welcome to the conversation.

Episodes you may also enjoy:
What Life After Cancer Can Be Like - Traveling the World with Holly
Making Sense of What Just Happened. A Survivorship Plan with Dr. G. van Londen
Dr. Monique Gary | We deserve to be kind to ourselves. This is how.

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Read Gloria's Story.

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DISCLAIMER: Links included in this description might be affiliate links. If you purchase a product or service with the links that we provide, our organization may receive a small commission. There is no additional charge to you! Thank you for supporting our channel so we can continue to provide you with free content each week!

Denise was diagnosed with Stage 3 TNBC and Joanie was diagnosed Stage 3 ER+ breast cancer. Both women were under 40, had little ones at home, and lived in the same neighborhood. In this episode we explore the power of friendships that are formed through cancer. The support peer to peers play in the community as well as how these two women broke the news to your young children.

Welcome to the Conversation.

Featuring Denise Rodman and Joanie Crowley from the Sunset Foundation

Episodes you may also enjoy:
Why "How Are You?" is Such A Weighted Question
My Mom has Breast Cancer. Now What?
Triple Negative Breast Caner with Jess

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♡ More about Survivingbreastcancer.org and ways to connect~

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♡ JOIN OUR GROUPS

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DISCLAIMER: Links included in this description might be affiliate links. If you purchase a product or service with the links that we provide, our organization may receive a small commission. There is no additional charge to you! Thank you for supporting our channel so we can continue to provide you with free content each week!

Writing is not for everyone and that is OK. But if you have been diagnosed with cancer, taking up journaling can be really therapeutic. Today we speak with Ilene Kaminsky who is living with metastatic breast cancer. She shares her advice on how writing is saving her life!

Welcome to the Conversation.

Featuring Ilene Kaminsky from the Cancer Bus

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♡ More about Survivingbreastcancer.org and ways to connect~

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DISCLAIMER: Links included in this description might be affiliate links. If you purchase a product or service with the links that we provide, our organization may receive a small commission. There is no additional charge to you! Thank you for supporting our channel so we can continue to provide you with free content each week!

Elisabeth is a two time breast cancer survivor. 17 years later, she is sharing her story of how a post surgery infection literally allowed her to shed the trauma and heal. Currently Elisabeth is a practicing yoga therapist. Her purpose is to help people deepen their wellness journey.

Because of her life experience, she has designed a healing modality that uses both yoga and active listening to help people in their journey.

She believes that, to live with more satisfaction with our body, our emotions, our relationships and our life goals, we need to reclaim our body, listen to its messages, feel what is really going on with us and speak our truth.

Welcome to the conversation

Featuring Elisabeth Perucca: https://elisabeth-perucca.com/

♡ More about Survivingbreastcancer.org and ways to connect~

⟡ Visit our Website

⟡ Attend an Event

⟡ Follow us on Twitter @SBC_ORG

⟡ SurvivingBreastCancer.org on Instagram

⟡ Breast Cancer Conversations on Instagram

♡ JOIN OUR GROUPS

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DISCLAIMER: Links included in this description might be affiliate links. If you purchase a product or service with the links that we provide, our organization may receive a small commission. There is no additional charge to you! Thank you for supporting our channel so we can continue to provide you with free content each week!

Hannah is living with with stage 4 breast cancer. Chuck is living with stage 4 prostate cancer. They met, fell in love, got married and are living their life motto: Get up and live. From writing books, public speaking events, and nourishing their bodies with juices and wholesome nutrition, these two are your modern day power couple! Their energy is contagious and I guarantee you will be smiling the whole way through this episode!

Welcome to the conversation

Resources Mentioned:
Get up and Live
Survivingbreastcancer.org
Thursday Night Thrivers, Breast Cancer Book Club, Webinars and Events.

⟡ Breast Cancer Conversations on Instagram

♡ JOIN OUR GROUPS

⟡ LinkedIn

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DISCLAIMER: Links included in this description might be affiliate links. If you purchase a product or service with the links that we provide, our organization may receive a small commission. There is no additional charge to you! Thank you for supporting our channel so we can continue to provide you with free content each week!

Judy Pearson is the author of From Shadows to Life, a Biography of the Cancer Survivorship Movement. She was diagnosed with TNBC 10 years ago and is here to provide education on how far we've come and were the movement is heading next!

Welcome to the conversation.

♡Resources Mentioned:
From Shadows to Life - Book
Judith Pearson's Website

♡ More about Survivingbreastcancer.org and ways to connect~

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DISCLAIMER: Links included in this description might be affiliate links. If you purchase a product or service with the links that we provide, our organization may receive a small commission. There is no additional charge to you! Thank you for supporting our channel so we can continue to provide you with free content each week!

Roberta Lombardi was diagnosed with breast cancer. She had a strong support system with her three daughters and husband. But not everyone is so lucky. In fact, there are a number of women who struggle day-to-day to manage treatment, expensive prescriptions, and finding child care so that they can attend doctor visits. If it comes to your own health, or putting food on the table for your children, what would you choose?

Roberta Lombardi is paying it forward and had created the non-profit, Infinite Strength to support single mothers under the poverty line in CT and New England. Today Roberta shares her personal battle with breast cancer and how she has taken her pain and turned it into purpose.

Welcome to the conversation.

Resources Mentioned:
Infinite Strength
Survivingbreastcancer.org
Thursday Night Thrivers, Breast Cancer Book Club, Webinars and Events.

⟡ Breast Cancer Conversations on Instagram

♡ JOIN OUR GROUPS

⟡ LinkedIn

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DISCLAIMER: Links included in this description might be affiliate links. If you purchase a product or service with the links that we provide, our organization may receive a small commission. There is no additional charge to you! Thank you for supporting our channel so we can continue to provide you with free content each week!

Tami is the producer of Light Up MBC Live. A global campaign bringing awareness to metastatic breast cancer. What started off as an initiative from one person to light up a bridge in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, is now a movement across the globe. October 13th is National MBC Day where you can witness national monuments and prominent buildings in the MBC colors of Pink, Teal, and Green.

Welcome to the Conversation

Resources Mentioned:
Metavivor
Light Up MBC Live

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♡ More about Survivingbreastcancer.org and ways to connect~

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DISCLAIMER: Links included in this description might be affiliate links. If you purchase a product or service with the links that we provide, our organization may receive a small commission. There is no additional charge to you! Thank you for supporting our channel so we can continue to provide you with free content each week!

In today's episode we speak with a panel of women who were diagnosed with early stage breast cancer, early stage breast cancer that metastasized, and women diagnosed with MBC de Novo. This raw and candid conversation provides education to the masses about breast cancer, metastatic breast cancer, and what the breast cancer community wants you to know about October.

Our stellar panel of women are actively involved in the breast cancer community so please check out their blogs, podcasts, and organizations below.

A special thank you to our Breast Cancer Awareness Sponsors:
Amoena and Madam Glam

Welcome to the conversation!

Resources Mentioned:
Survivingbreastcancer.org
Thursday Night Thrivers, Breast Cancer Book Club, Webinars and Events.
Ilene Kaminsky - The Cancer Bus
Megan-Claire Chase - Life on the Cancer Train
Abigail Johnston - No Half Measures
Kristie Konsoer - Finding a Way
Victoria Goldberg - Our MBC Life Podcast

⟡ Breast Cancer Conversations on Instagram

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DISCLAIMER: Links included in this description might be affiliate links. If you purchase a product or service with the links that we provide, our organization may receive a small commission. There is no additional charge to you! Thank you for supporting our channel so we can continue to provide you with free content each week!

The question of "how are you? " used to be rather simple. The answer was always "I'm fine, how are you?" to which the person would usually say "I'm good," and the conversation would continue onto something like sports, our kiddos, or the weather. But today, with a breast cancer diagnosis, the question becomes even more nuanced and weighted. If a breast cancer friend of mine asks me how I'm doing, I naturally spur into a litany of aches and pains, the newest treatment I'm on, and when my follow up appointments are scheduled.

If a friend who doesn't have breast cancer asks me how I'm doing, I find myself at a crossroads of the usual "I'm fine, and you?" and then spewing out more details about my latest bowel movement than they cared to know.

How do we navigate the fine line of the weighted question: How Are You?

Welcome to the Conversation.

Featuring Ilene Kaminsky from the Cancer Bus

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DISCLAIMER: Links included in this description might be affiliate links. If you purchase a product or service with the links that we provide, our organization may receive a small commission. There is no additional charge to you! Thank you for supporting our channel so we can continue to provide you with free content each week!

Today we share the voices of those diagnosed with breast cancer and their expressive writing through poetry. Writing and poetry can both be therapeutic. Sit back and enjoy an episode of spoken word.

Featuring:
Ilene Kaminsky
Michelle Laflamme
Brookshire McDonald
Pooja Jain
Dawn Oswald
William Laferriere

Welcome to the Conversation.

Resources Mentioned:
The Cancer Bus

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♡ More about Survivingbreastcancer.org and ways to connect~

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DISCLAIMER: Links included in this description might be affiliate links. If you purchase a product or service with the links that we provide, our organization may receive a small commission. There is no additional charge to you! Thank you for supporting our channel so we can continue to provide you with free content each week!

In this episode, we are joined by Ilene Kaminsky, poet, advocate, and living with metastatic breast cancer. She was hospitalized for what was thought to be food poisoning and came to find out she was diagnosed with stage IV metastatic breast cancer. Given three months to live, Ilene is on her 7th line of treatment, beating the odds and is sharing her breast cancer unicorn story 7 years later.

Welcome to the Conversation.

Resources Mentioned:
The Cancer Bus

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♡ More about Survivingbreastcancer.org and ways to connect~

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Need some inspiration on creative projects and how to get the creative juices flowing? In this episode, Keri Lynn Turney, founder of Sacred Departure, brings her creative ideas to life and shares with us how we can take charge of our story, and our narrative, for how we want to be remembered.

Welcome to the Conversation.

Resources Mentioned:
Sacred Departure
Ghost App
Record Me Now
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In today’s episode we speak with Silke. Diagnosed with stage II breast cancer only to find out it had spread to her bones 6 years later. Silke shares with us the intimate emotions as she navigates the successes of a surgery, a low onco-type score, and not needing radiation. After being on three lines of treatment she is now seeing positive responses from a clinical trial.

Welcome to the conversation.

Topics covered:
Double Mastectomy with implants
Breast Cancer Recurrence
Metastatic Breast Cancer, Mets to the bones
Finding Clinical Trials

Welcome to the Conversation.

Connect with Silke on Twitter:
@Silke4Senate

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In this episode we speak with Lori LoCicero and Lisa Pahl, LCSW. Together they are the co-founders of the Death Deck. A card game that helps people, couples, and families talk about end of life choices and wishes. Having experienced personal loss themselves, they've come together to ensure that others are as prepared as possible when it comes to their loved one's wishes at the end of life. We hear their personal stories, understand the role of hospice, and even play a few hands of cards ourselves.
Topics cover:
Death and loss
What I wish I had known
Hospice Care
Affording Hospice
The Death Deck

Welcome to the Conversation.

Resources mentioned:
https://thedeathdeck.com

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In this episode we speak Dianne Webb, CFP. Understanding finances and budgets are complex and complicated. In fact, so many people avoid it all together. But in today's podcast we break down the daunting and scary numbers and put you back in control! After all, it is your money, you are in the driver seat of what you do with your cash and how it can work for you! A key take-a-way today is the idea that we pay ourselves first, everything else follows suit.

Topics cover:
Definitions and terms
Health Savings Accounts vs. Flex Savings Accounts
Investments, IRA's and Roth IRA's,
Planning for the unexpected, like a cancer diagnosis
and so much more!

Welcome to the Conversation.

Featuring Dianne Webb

Resources mentioned:
https://www.cfp.net/
https://brokercheck.finra.org/

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In this episode we speak with Kyla Thompson. Kyla Thompson lost her mom to metastatic breast cancer when she was 13 years old. Today Kyla shares her story about how she is taking her own personal experience and creating a space to support and help children whose parent has been diagnosed with breast cancer. Join us in today's dialogue where we will hear about the partnership Kyla and Laura are forming to support our breast cancer community and fill a much needed back in care.

Welcome to the Conversation.

Featuring Kyla Thompson
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In today's episode we speak with Lauren Neuburger. She is a breast cancer thriver turned holistic nutritionist on a mission to help our breast cancer community regain control after a breast cancer diagnosis.

Welcome to the Conversation.

Featuring Lauren Neuburger, Breast Caner Thriver.
Check out Lauren on IG @IamBreastCancerThriver

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In today's episode we speak with Lisa Laudico, Natalia Green and Sheila McGlown who are all living with metastatic breast cancer and part part of the podcast, Our MBC Life.

While breast cancer may unite us, there are many nuances, even within the metastatic community to bring to light. For example, we take a deep dive into being diagnosed de novo, being diagnosed with oligometastatic, and then also discovering you breast cancer recurred and you are now metastatic. These women share their unique and powerful stories with us. T hey are advocates and supporters, and they are here to educate, share in our community and create space for our MBC breast cancer community.

Today you will learn about MBC and how these women discovered their diagnosis and broke the news to their loved ones.

Welcome to the Conversation.

Featuring Our MBC Life Podcast

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Triple Positive Breast Cancer Under 30 bring about a unique set of experiences. No one expects to get cancer, let alone, in your 20s. Tabby shares her experience being triple positive (ER/PR HER2+) and how she managed side effects of her chemotherapy regiment. She brings a positive light to a dreadful disease and we can all learn from her realistic optimism.

Topics Discussed:

[05:00 ]Telling colleagues about Breast Cancer

[07:30] Chemotherapy side effects

[12:31] Screening and surgery

[19:20] Sharing the news with your parents

[25:12] Fertility options

[29:30] Wigs? There was nothing for me

Resources Mentioned:
Events: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events
Coast 2 Coast Fundraiser

Featuring Shelley, Rod, Kyla, and Jaydon who share their memories of their mothers, how life continues after losing their mom's to Metastatic Breast Cancer, and the legacies they are creating.

A powerful conversation that every parent and child should hear!

Resources Mentioned:
Ciitizen.com/SBCTrials
Survivingbreastcancer.org Events
Coast-2-Coast Summer Fundraiser 2021

In this episode, we discuss the world of legislation surrounding metastatic breast cancer with board members of METAvivor's advocacy committee. We urge our listeners to join in their tremendous and life-changing advocacy work by volunteering to simply share your story with local and state leaders. Email info@metavivor.org for more information.

In this episode we speak with Andrew Silver, Jimmy Boratyn, and Christian Garnett, who have all lost their beloved wives to metastatic breast cancer (MBC). This is part II of our discussion where we get into the coping strategies that these men turned to as they stress the importance of making time for yourself so that you can be strong for others. Andrew, Jimmy, and Christian also describe in great detail, the passing of their wives, Sonya, Melissa, and Emily.

Three Men
Three Unique Stories
Three perspectives you must hear!

Welcome to the conversation
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♡ Resources Mentioned
⟡ Coast-2-Coast Fundraiser
⟡ Ciitizen.com/SBCNews (and don't forget to mention SBC!)
⟡ Listen to Part I of this podcast series

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♡ CONTACT:

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In this episode, we talk with three men who have lost their wives to metastatic breast cancer -- Jimmy, Andrew, and Christian -- as they take us through their journeys through cancer with their wives and share with us the wonderful memories of these truly impactful women. They reveal the emotions they experienced with the initial diagnosis, the ways they grappled with supporting their wives while maintaining perspective, and share advice for couples who maybe embarking on their own cancer journeys together.

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Toxic positivity as “the excessive and ineffective overgeneralization of a happy, optimistic state across all situations. The process of toxic positivity results in the denial, minimization, and the invalidation of the authentic human emotional experience" according to The Psychology Group.

In this episode we provide examples of how toxic positivity bubbles up day to day and offer tools for how to flip the switch and let people know that sometimes these comments hurt, are dismissive, and do not serve us.

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Understanding grief. Understanding the difference between grief and loss. Understanding toxic positivity. These are just some of the topics we touch upon in today's episode with Kelly Grosklag. Kelly created Conversations with Kelly (CWK) for a powerful purpose: to alleviate the suffering of those experiencing deep loss. Kelly’s childhood encounter with trauma and grief, coupled with a life-long passion for building communities of healing, motivates her to help others discover their inner strength.

♡ RESOURCES MENTIONED

⟡ Kellys Book: A Comforted Heart
⟡ Advanced Breast Cancer

♡ QUOTABLES YOU CAN SHARE ON SOCIAL⟡” “

⟡ “Grief is the reaction to the loss”

⟡“Grief is the lifelong process in response to a loss”

⟡“Mourning is the outpouring/showing of grief”

⟡“There is a fine line between positivity and reality”

⟡" Walking the line between hope and reality"

⟡ “Well at least….” It’s a diminishing comment

⟡ "Compassion fatigue"

⟡ “I am a person first”

⟡ “The cyclical nature of grief is so important to remind everyone - it’s not linear and doesn’t end”

⟡ “Both…. And” We can both be sad and we can both be OK. We can be both scared and resilient."

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⟡ Website: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/

⟡ Twitter: https://twitter.com/SBC_org

⟡ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/survivingbreastcancerorg/

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Today's episode is straight up Girl Talk! Jess Duemig (who you may remember from last week's episode were we discussed fertility), this week we have a one-on-one about being diagnosed under 40, going into medical menopause, dating, weight gain and mindset.

Pour yourself a cup of coffee, tea, or beverage of choice and enjoy today's girl talk!

Grab the book: Warrior Guidebook and 20% will be donated to our charity,
https://warriorguidebook.com/shop/warrior-surviving-breast-cancer-fundraiser/

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Jessica was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 32. She was focused on her career, living on her own, and totally unprepared for what was ahead. Like so many of us faced with rapid fire decisions, we don't necessarily have time to research and learn about what options are available. Today we take a deep dive into the topic of fertility and breast cancer. Jessica and Laura share experiences of freezing their eggs, or not, and what you can expect with fertility preservation.

Today we take a deep dive into the topic of fertility and breast cancer, Jessica and I share our experiences of freezing our eggs or not, and what you can expect with fertility preservation. Welcome to the conversation.

♡ TOPICS DISCUSSED :

⟡ What to expect with egg preservation [02:46]
⟡ Let's talk about pain [06:31]

♡ RESOURCES MENTIONED

⟡ Jessica's book Warrior

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♡ EPISODE SUMMARY

In this episode, Denise and Karen discuss the process of having helped their daughters navigate metastatic breast cancer, the support they provided, and how they are keeping their daughter's legacy. Moderated by Abigail, Denise and Karen discuss healthy ways they were able to help their daughters and find support themselves. There are many ways to be helpful but sometimes it’s most important just to be there.

♡ TOPICS DISCUSSED

⟡ About Amanda [04:38]
⟡ What is GRASP [15:20]
⟡ Amanda's Advocacy [25:48]
⟡ About Kady [28:32]
⟡ Approaching tough conversation [36:18]
⟡ Being an emotional advocate [40:24]
⟡ Getting support after losing your daughter to MBC [43:22]
⟡ Advice for others [58:53]

♡ RESOURCES MENTIONED

⟡ The Kady Haynes Beauty For Ashes Project: https://thekadyhaynesproject.org/

⟡ SABCS - San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium: https://www.sabcs.org/

⟡ GRASP: https://graspcancer.org/

♡ QUOTABLES FOR SOCIAL MEDIA

Be there. It breaks my heart when I read people's accounts of dealing with cancer, and they're also fighting with their closest family members about their treatment or about their attitude, just just be there.

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Laura and Abigail Johnston discuss Near with co-founder Christy Knutson. Near is an organization that seeks to aid individuals in navigating an end of life diagnosis. The group talks about what happens when an individual comes to Near and the various plans available to them. Laura, Abigail, and Christy also discuss positive ramifications after death and how grief can affect someone overtime.

♡ TOPICS DISCUSSED :

⟡ Christy Knutson’s introduction [1:59]

⟡ What happens when an individual comes to Near? [11:52]

⟡ Foundations plan and legacy plan [16:18]

⟡ Are the programs open to anyone? [18:49]

⟡ Backgrounds on Doulas [23:50]

⟡ How does this work allow for positive ramifications after death? [28:45]

⟡ How do trauma and grief change DNA? [35:34]

♡ RESOURCES MENTIONED

⟡ Staynear.co

⟡ ciitizen.com/sbcclinicaltrials

⟡How Trauma and Resilience Cross Generations

♡ QUOTES WE LOVE

⟡ “But so many people go through really a lot of devastating loss and disconnection there at the end, that doesn't have it doesn't have to be that way.” [7:50]

⟡ “And ask them, like the number one question is what matters most to you? What matters and we make all kinds of assumption about what matter to people on any given day, and especially at the at the end of their life. And sometimes those are true, and sometimes they line up, and oftentimes they don't.” [13:30]

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In today’s episode we speak with Susanna Barkataki. Susanna is an Indian yoga practitioner and the founder of Ignite Yoga and Wellness Institute. She is a Certified Yoga Therapist and Author of #1best selling book, Embrace Yoga’s Roots: Courageous Ways to Deepen Your Yoga Practice. We will kick things off with a grounding meditation which lays the foundation for our discussion on engaging in a yoga practice that is accessible, inclusive and equitable and honoring it’s rich tradition and heritage.

♡ TOPICS DISCUSSED :

⟡Guided Bell Meditation: 02:21

⟡Coming to yoga through suffering: 10:00

⟡Expending yoga beyond just the post:17:00

⟡Social Justice and Yoga: 22:55

⟡Betrayal of one's body and how to reconnect 34:30

⟡Trama informed, culturally informed yoga: 43:25

♡ RESOURCES MENTIONED

⟡ Book: Embrace Yoga's Roots: https://amzn.to/3w4NSSB

⟡ Susanna Barkataki: https://www.susannabarkataki.com/

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Embrace Yoga's Roots: Courageous Ways to Deepen Your Yoga Practice

Over the last few weeks we’ve been exploring topics on grief and loss. In this episode we speak with Deb Hart.

Deb Hart lost her son at the young age of 22. She shares her powerfully touching story with us on how grief has led her to joy. Deb is the founder of Pink Sistas, a non-profit organization that specializes in retreats for those diagnosed with breast cancer. She has a boat on the Columbia river in Oregon. There is no better way to find joy than by letting the waves of grief wash over you while on the water.

♡ RESOURCES MENTIONED

⟡Pink Sistas: https://pinksistas.org/
⟡Project Grace: https://www.facebook.com/ProjectGrace/ ♡ QUOTABLES FOR SOCIAL MEDIAWhen we give of ourselves to support someone else we are healing as well.

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In this episode, Laura discusses clean eating with Karla Mans Giroux. Karla discusses the various foods that one should be including in their diet, gut, health, and what to look for when reading labels. Laura and Karla also discuss what a cancer coach is and how Karla got involved in this line of work. Karla brings up lots of statistics and studies done to support her claims and stresses the importance of creating a diet that works for you specifically.

♡ TOPICS DISCUSSED :

⟡ Karla Mans Giroux’s introduction [2:48]

⟡ What is a cancer coach? [7:32]

⟡ Why go plant based? [14:03]

⟡ Why you should decrease meat intake [20:39]

⟡ Good grains and grains to avoid [24:44]

⟡ What to look for in labels and what products you should avoid [28:18]

⟡ What role alcohol plays [33:21]

⟡ Healthy changes [36:34]

⟡ Gut health [38:51]

♡ QUOTES WE LOVE

⟡ “There is scientific evidence that increasingly supports the view that alterations in diet have strong effects on health throughout our life. The diets that are high in fruits, veggies, legumes, fiber, and certain spices have been shown to suppress that chronic inflammation and prevent the development of chronic diseases.”

⟡ “The average omnivore in the US gets more than 1.5 times the optimal amount of protein, most of it from animal sources. So when you think about cutting out meat and you're worried about your protein, it's definitely not a problem. If you're eating meat, you're probably getting a lot more protein than you really need. And that excess protein does not make us stronger or leaner. The excess protein is stored as fat or it's turned into waste. Animal protein is a major cause of weight gain, heart disease, diabetes, inflammation, and cancer.”

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In this episode Karla Mans Giroux provides us with the quick and dirty on soy

♡ RESOURCES MENTIONED

⟡ Block Center, Integrative Cancer Treatment: https://blockmd.com/

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⟡ breastcancerconversations on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/breastcancerconversations/⟡

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There’s no other word to describe the feeling when you or someone you love is diagnosed with cancer. On any given day, you might rotate between feelings of disbelief, anger, and grief. You may even feel like you’ve lost control over your own life.

While your diagnosis might raise any number of negative feelings, here's the good news: you don’t have to feel lost or confused. In Cancer: The Journey from Diagnosis to Empowerment, Dr. Paul Anderson clearly outlines what you can expect throughout your cancer journey. More importantly, he demonstrates how to cultivate a mental outlook that will help you reach your best outcome. When it comes to healing, mind does matter.

Drawing on decades of experience, Dr. Anderson offers practical advice to demystify the healing process, empower patients, and teach loved ones how to provide effective support.

♡ RESOURCES MENTIONED

⟡ Cancer: The Journey From Diagnosis to Empowerment: https://amzn.to/2NrybmM

♡ QUOTES WE LOVE

⟡ “Be as healed as you can be”

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⟡ Apple Music: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/breast-cancer-conversations/id1441928699

⟡ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1JkhwSsJhk9GdAnjgoZVIw

⟡ breastcancerconversations on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/breastcancerconversations/⟡

⟡ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/BreastCancerConversations/

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⟡Shop our Amazon Charity List and donate to a breast cancer survivor’s care page!: https://smile.amazon.com/gp/clpf?ref_=nav_ListFlyout_smi_se_ya_lll_ll

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DISCLAIMER: Links included in this description might be affiliate links. If you purchase a product or service with the links that we provide, our organization may receive a small commission. There is no additional charge to

Cancer: The Journey from Diagnosis to Empowerment

In this episode, Leslie Yerger, the author of Probably Benign and founder of My Density Matters, discusses statistics regarding detection of breast cancer, the different categories of breast density, and the various modalities of finding breast cancer within these categories. Yerger also discusses lobular breast cancer and how it is difficult to diagnose as those lumps are often hard to find. She lastly highlights how individuals must take control of their breast cancer diagnosis and urges individuals to figure out whether they have dense breasts.

♡ TOPICS DISCUSSED :

⟡ Leslie Yerger’s introduction [2:40]

⟡ Early detection of breast cancer and chances of survival [8:00]

⟡ Breast density [11:00]

⟡ Modalities to find breast cancer in women: the pros and cons of each [15:15]

⟡ Lobular breast cancer [21:35]

⟡ Taking control of your breast cancer diagnosis and treatment [23:20]

⟡ Feb. 24th: Find out my breast density day [24:30]
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♡ RESOURCES MENTIONED

⟡ #FindOutMyBreastDensityDay

⟡ https://mydensitymatters.org/

♡ QUOTES WE LOVE

⟡ ”How often have we heard that, that somebody experiences something and then says, wait a minute, I don't want anybody else to experience this. And I think that's really exemplifies what Leslie is doing. She had an experience, she figured out why she had that experience, and now she's trying to make sure that other people don't have that same experience.“

⟡ “You’ve got to be the boss, you have to be the boss of your own breast cancer screening. You have to ask whether you have dense breasts or not, if you don't know already, you have to learn the options around you. So we have to be strong. We have to know what we want. And we have to keep going, asking until we get what we want. Don't give up.”

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DISCLAIMER: Links included in this description might be affiliate links. If you purchase a product or service with the links that we provide, our organization may receive a small commission. There is no additional charge to you! Thank you for supporting our channel so we can continue to provide you with free content each week!

♡ CONTACT:

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In this episode, Laura discusses clinical trials with Martin Naley, Alyson Tischler, Sheila McGlown, and Abigail Johnston. Martin Naley is a Clinical Informatics Specialist at Ciitizen, a free clinical matching service. Alyson Tischler, Sheila McGlown, and Abigail Johnston are three women living with metastatic breast cancer. They talk about what clinical trials are, different types of trials, how to figure out eligibility, and their experiences with understanding all of the various terminologies. Martin Naley brings up statistics regarding the demographics of clinical trials which leads to a conversation about how to make clinical trials more accessible. The podcast ends with each individual giving a piece of advice related to clinical trials.

♡ TOPICS DISCUSSED :

⟡What is a clinical trial? What options are available? Where can I learn more about clinical trials? [3:20]

⟡ Martin Naley’s introduction [10:15]

⟡ Reports on treatments and differences between Phase 1, Phase 2, and Phase 3 Trials [16:40]

⟡ Alyson Tischler’s introduction: breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and recurrence [21:00]

⟡ Sheila McGlown’s introduction: breast cancer diagnosis, symptoms, and treatment [24:30]

⟡ Abigail Johnston’s introduction: stage IV cancer, emergency surgery, and clinical trial experience [26:45]

⟡ Making clinical trials more accessible and easier to understand [34:30]

⟡ Best practices to ensure health and safety of individuals participating in clinical trials and to inform individuals [37:09]

⟡ What to expect when reaching out to Ciitizen and clinical trial matching [46:00]

⟡ Advice regarding clinical trials [55:00]

♡ RESOURCES MENTIONED

⟡ Ciitizen.com/SBCClinicalTrials Ciitizen is free, helps you gain access and control to all your medical records and now, can also help you explore your custom Clinical Trial options!

⟡ Information on Clinical Trials:

⟡ Connect IV Legal Services:

⟡ Events

♡ QUOTES WE LOVE

⟡”Are you going to call me a subject or a patient? Do I look like a subject? No, I don't look like a subject. I look like a patient. Don't call me a subject. But then that's another thing, a racial, cultural difference, you know, or experimental drug.

⟡ ‘’The way information is communicated to patients and something I really feel passionate about just, I bringing that to light for a few reasons. If you're in that situation, and you're considering a trial, and you have no idea what they're talking about, just realize you're not alone, as most patients don't have any idea.”

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Managing rogue family members is a delicate balancing act. But how do you navigate these conversations when it is compounded with end of life? Everyone wants what is best for the patient but it is important to honor that person's final wishes and what they want, not necessarily what "you" want. In today's episode we speak with Jennifer O'Brien and Valerie Armand who share their recommendations on how to navigate the rogue family member and opening up the lines of communication.

TOPICS DISCUSSEDEstablishing that you are the one they are confiding in [04:32]
Dealing with the family member that isn't on board [06:09]
End of life documentation [06:53]
Language you can use [08:40]
Leverage the nurse [09:30}
RESOURCES MENTIONED
Medio: Doing Death Differently

QUOTES WE LOVE IN THIS EPISODE
"Document Document Document!"
"I know you see things differently but we need to do what [mom/dad] wants"

EPISODE TRANSCRIPT
View the transcription for this episode here.

OTHER EPISODES YOU MAY ENJOYEnd of Life Planning
End of Life Choices with Matt Whitaker and Dee Dee Turpi‪n‬
What is included in Palliative Care?
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DISCLAIMER: Links included in this description might be affiliate links. If you purchase a product or service with the links that we provide, survivingbreastcancer.org may receive a small commission. There is no additional charge to you! Thank you for supporting our work so that we can continue to provide you with free content each week.

Today we speak with Valerie Armand and Jennifer O'brien about their experiences with loss and end of life.

Valery is an LPN and Certified End of Life Doula with over 20 years experience serving others at the end of life. Founder of Exiting Gracefully, LLC and a Dying Your Way consultant, her passion lies in removing the stigma that society has placed on facing our mortality. She provides consulting, education and mentoring as a way to empower others, helping them navigate their own unique journey.

Jennifer O’brien is not new to loss. At a young age she lost her only brother after three weeks in a coma and her mother to pancreatic cancer.

She had cared for uncles, grandparents and friends at end of life. Jennifer is the accomplished Author of the Hospice Doctor’s Widow. Her writing presents the raw and honest insights of a caregiver and is about being fully present during even the toughest moments, honoring grief, and going forward after devastating loss.

Several of us in the breast cancer community are on or have been on numerous chemotherapies. We use the term line of treatment. For example, we may be on one line of chemotherapy until it stops working and then we move onto the next. The hope is that we don’t run out of options and that there will always be a new therapy to try. But when is enough enough? When do we give ourselves the permission to say I don’t want to try another drug? How do we balance quality of life over quantity. These are some of the questions we address today. Welcome to the conversation.

Resources from today's episode
The Hospice Doctors Widow: A Journal
Dying Your Way
Exiting Gracefully LLC
Survivingbreastcancer.org/events
Ciitizen/SBCtrials: Ciitizen is free, helps you gain access and control to all your medical records and now, can also help you explore your custom Clinical Trial options!

The Hospice Doctor's Widow: A Journal

Today we speak with Valerie Armand and Jennifer O'brien about their experiences with loss and end of life. Specifically, we look at the question of when people decide enough is enough and it is ok to say no to more treatments.

Valery is an LPN and Certified End of Life Doula with over 20 years experience serving others at the end of life. Founder of Exiting Gracefully, LLC and a Dying Your Way consultant, her passion lies in removing the stigma that society has placed on facing our mortality. She provides consulting, education and mentoring as a way to empower others, helping them navigate their own unique journey.

Jennifer O’brien is not new to loss. At a young age she lost her only brother after three weeks in a coma and her mother to pancreatic cancer.

She had cared for uncles, grandparents and friends at end of life. Jennifer is the accomplished Author of the Hospice Doctor’s Widow. Her writing presents the raw and honest insights of a caregiver and is about being fully present during even the toughest moments, honoring grief, and going forward after devastating loss.

Several of us in the breast cancer community are on or have been on numerous chemotherapies. We use the term line of treatment. For example, we may be on one line of chemotherapy until it stops working and then we move onto the next. The hope is that we don’t run out of options and that there will always be a new therapy to try. But when is enough enough? When do we give ourselves the permission to say I don’t want to try another drug? How do we balance quality of life over quantity. These are some of the questions we address today. Welcome to the conversation.

Resources from today's episode
The Hospice Doctors Widow: A Journal
Dying Your Way
Exiting Gracefully LLC
Survivingbreastcancer.org/events
Ciitizen/SBCtrials: Ciitizen is free, helps you gain access and control to all your medical records and now, can also help you explore your custom Clinical Trial options!

The Hospice Doctor's Widow: A Journal

In this episode we speak with Laura Kleiman from Reboot Rx to understand the opportunity of repurposing non-cancer generic drugs to quickly expand treatment options for cancer patients.

For more information visit https://rebootrx.org/
And be sure to follow them on social media:

LinkedIn: Reboot Rx

Twitter: @Reboot_Rx

Facebook: @RebootRx.Org

Instagram: @reboot_rx

Medical Aid in Dying

What end of life choices do you need to consider? It's always best to consider end of life care and preferences before the crisis happens. In today's episode we speak with Matt Whitaker from Compassionate Choices and Dee Dee Turpin from A Necessary Conversation as confront a topic that is seldom talked about, but is incredibly important!

Welcome to the conversation.

Resources Mentioned in the episode:
A Necessary Conversation
Compassion and Choices

What is included in Palliative Care? Who needs it and when should you ask for it? These are some of the important questions we ask in today's episode as we speak with Dr. Medina, Breast Cancer Survivor, Marianne Sarcich, and Author, Jennifer O'Brien.

Resources Mentioned:Ciitizen is free, helps you gain access and control to all your medical records and now, can also help you explore your custom Clinical Trial options! Learn More at Ciitizen.com/SBCtrials Eps. 89 - What is Palliative Care?
Eps. 84 - Estate Planning part I Eps 85 - Estate Planning part IIThe Hospice Dr.'s Widow
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The Hospice Doctor's Widow: A Journal

What is Palliative Care? It is a term that can also be referred to as Support Services. In this episode we speak with Dr. Medina, Breast Cancer Survivor, Marianne Sarcich, and Author, Jennifer O'Brien.

Resources Mentioned:Ciitizen is free, helps you gain access and control to all your medical records and now, can also help you explore your custom Clinical Trial options! Learn More at Ciitizen.com/SBCtrialsThe Hospice Dr.'s Widow
Purchase on Amazon
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The Hospice Doctor's Widow: A Journal

The Breast Cancer Book Club read "A Most Beautiful Thing" by Arshay Cooper. This episode is shares the surprise interview we got to have with Author and motivational speaker, Mr. Arshay Cooper. He not only speaks about the book we ready, but we got to ask him questions about what motivated him to write, create a documentary, and what he is planning next.

A Most Beautiful Thing is a powerful and uplifting memoir and should be part of everyone's required reading list.

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Join us for this panel discussion on thrivership after breast cancer. We have a panel of five women with five unique stories.

Topics discussed include:The role of exercise
Lymphedema and neuropathy and cording under your arm
Slowing down in order to regain strength
Faith and trust in a higher power
Recurrence
Refusing hormone blockers and radiation

Connect with our Panelists on Instagram:Jill @jillpring95
Ria @thisgirlisthriving
Cecilia @ces5b
Jomi @mrs_jomi588
Heidi @happilyeveraftercancer
@Glowingupaftercancer #GUAC

Quoteables
"I new if I could create a partnership between my body and my mind, I would arrive at a place of healing"

“Cancer has helped me find a balance between fear and purpose.”

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Precision Medicine with Dr. Jackson

If you think about it, we already get personalized care when we go to the eye doctor. They examine us and give us the EXACT prescription for our eye glasses and contact lenses. When we go to a shoe store, we find the perfect fit based on our unique features; for example, a shoe that is extra wide or has additional support and cushioning. Why shouldn't our medicine be the same, i.e. tailored to us! With the All of Us Research Program, we have a shot at just that!

Resources Mentioned In This Episode:
Research is hope for the future of health care. Turn hope into action by learning more about, or joining, the All of Us Research Program today. You can learn more about your own health while helping to create a resource that allows researchers to conduct thousands of studies on health and disease. To learn more and enroll, visit JoinAllofUs.org/NewEngland and click “Sign Up Online” or download the navy blue All of Us Research Program app from the Apple Store or Google Play.

The Built Environment: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/post/built-environments

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Today’s episode is part II of our Estate Planning series. Last week Abigail and Anna shared with us the importance of estate planning, and providing access and authority. For example, who has access to what and who are the decision makers if we can no longer make decisions for ourselves in a medical situation. Today we pick up on where we left off and turn to estate planning in terms of what happens after our own passing. We put all of this time and energy to prepare a living will, let’s make sure we make it easier for our loved ones to be able to focus on the good memories and grieving without having to worry about the logistics of funeral arrangements, probate and or guardianship.

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODECiitizen is free, helps you gain access and control to all your medical records and now, can also help you explore your custom Clinical Trial options!
ciitizen.com/SBCtrials

Listen to Part I Access, Authority & Estate Planning with Abigail Johnston and Anna Spencer (Part I)

Join our Thursday Night Thrivers Meetup
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

Follow us on Instagram
@Survivingbreastcancerorg
@breastcancerconversations

TOPICS DISCUSSED

Estate planning
Establish who your guardian will be
Last will and testament
What is probate?
Avoid probate by establishing access after death
Beneficiary will supersede what you put in your will
Payable on death (POD) used by financial institutions
Gradian of the person
Gradian of the property
What is a Trust? It owns it own’s assets
Revocable vs irrevocable trusts
What happens to my money after I die if my spouse remarries.
Some assets have income taxes
Funding the trust
Terms and definitions
Veteran’s should be sure to have discharge paperwork.

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Access, Authority & Estate Planning with Abigail Johnston and Anna Spencer (Part I)

Show notes coming soon.

In today's episode, we speak with Ria who underwent a single mastectomy direct to implant. What she wasn't expecting was the infection that occurred after her surgery. Because of the infection, the implanted needed to be removed. Then COVID-19 hit. This enabled Ria additional time to reflect on her experience with breast cancer, grieve the loss of a breast, and ultimately decide whether or not reconstruction was right for her.

You can follow our guest Ria on Instagram @Thrive.Ria
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Continue to connect with listerners survivors, thrivers and cancer havers on social media. You can follow us on Instagram @survivingbreastcancerorg and @breastcancerconversations

When Stage III, HER2+ breast cancer survivor Jennifer Wallace told me I need to stop working out, but start working in, the light bulb went off in my end! After a dramatic experience like a breast cancer diagnosis, we clammer to hold on to the tangible and control as much as we can. But what if we could start incorporating techniques that can ease our anxiety, teach us how to harness the power of our breath, and reduce our stress. Perhaps not illuminate our stress entirely, but empower us to say, "hey we got this! We can handle this!" Jennifer walks us though inner healing in today's Breast Cancer Conversation.

TOPICS DISCUSSEDSelf-breast exams

Stage III Her2 Positive

Somatic Practice

Grief meditation

Inner practice

Healing even several years out after diagnosis

Breakdown at the dentists

Applied Neurology

Gaze fixations

Survivors Guilt

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

@illuminatedwithjenniferwallace

Website https://www.illuminatedwithjenniferwallace.com/

Eat Right For Your Blood Type (https://amzn.to/2JenjX5)

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Support the show (https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=YWH7Z7QXDL6AY&source=url)

Eat Right 4 Your Type (Revised and Updated): The Individualized Blood Type Diet® Solution

In this episode we offer a panel discussion and focus on the questions children ask when you explain to them that you have metastatic breast cancer. Depending on the ages of your children, they will have different levels of understanding. We explore these variables, share tactics and leave you with examples. You are not alone in these conversations!

QUOTES WE LOVE

"When we love, and we love deeply, we are going to grieve deeply…. Grief means we have loved….. " Abigail Johnston

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODECiitizen is free, helps you gain access and control to all your medical records and now, can also help you explore your custom Clinical Trial options!
ciitizen.com/SBCtrials Amanda's Story:https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/post/de-novo-metastatic-breast-cancerInflammatory breast cancer Research Foundation: http://www.ibcresearch.org/

Feeling buddieshttps://amzn.to/2TqzTUY

What I love about being your mom:https://amzn.to/35E8sNs My Mom: In Her Own Words — A keepsake interview bookhttps://amzn.to/3kv8nBE

My Mom, Her Stories, Her Wordshttps://amzn.to/2Tqz4LS

Thru My Eyes:https://www.thrumyeyes.org/

No Half Measures Blog:
https://nohalfmeasures.blog/

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Support the show (https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=YWH7Z7QXDL6AY&source=url)

Knock Knock What I Love about Being Your Mom (for Daughter/Son) Fill in the Love Book Fill-in-the-Blank Gift Journal (You Fill in the Love)

Constructive Playthings CP-039 Expression Babies Plush Dolls, Super Soft Baby Dolls Set, 6 Piece Set for All Ages

My Mom - Her Story. Her Words.

My Mom: In Her Own Words — A keepsake interview book

In this episode we offer a panel discussion and focus on anticipatory grief and how to have these honest and tough conversations with your loved ones and your children. Depending on the ages of your children, they will have different levels of understand. We explore these variables, share tactics and leave you with examples. You are not alone in these conversations!

QUOTES WE LOVE

"When we love, and we love deeply, we are going to grieve deeply…. Grief means we have loved….. " Abigail Johnston

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Ciitizen is free, helps you gain access and control to all your medical records and now, can also help you explore your custom Clinical Trial options!
ciitizen.com/SBCtrials Amanda's Blog:https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/post/de-novo-metastatic-breast-cancerInflammatory breast cancer Research Foundation: http://www.ibcresearch.org/

Camp Kesemhttp://www.campkesemstanford.org/

Inheritance of Hopehttps://inheritanceofhope.org/

Little Pink Houses of hope
https://www.littlepink.org/

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What is non-toxic make up? What is clean beauty? The terminology and information can be confusing so in today's episode we bring in the experts to help us understand why reading labels is important and how we can make beauty conscious choices that have long lasting effects.

We take a deep dive into the laws and legislation in the beauty industry. We provide a list of products to watch out for and easy to follow advise for how you can easily and without stress start making the switch to living a healthy and cleaner beauty conscious life.

Resources mentioned in this episode:www.ewg.org

https://www.ewg.org/skindeep

cancer.gov

https://www.drbronner.com/

https://www.100percentpure.com/

https://follain.com

https://www.beautycounter.com

https://www.myhairprint.com/

https://www.sperohopellc.com/

https://www.womensvoices.org/

Madam Glam Pink Collection:https://bit.ly/306Zfez

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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/survivingbreastcancerorg/

Today we speak with Fitz Koehler. She is one of the most prominent and compelling fitness experts and race announcers in America. As the voice of the Los Angeles Marathon, Philadelphia Marathon, Big Sur Marathon, DC Wonder Woman Run Series, and more, she brings big structure, energy, and joy to sport. She’s also passionate about guiding others to live better and longer through her company, Fitzness®.

Not only do we speak about her experience with Stage IIB breast cancer, but we take a deep dive into the book which is a "tell all" of the juicy and gory details of her 16-month battle, all while zigzagging across the United States. Enduring chemotherapy, radiation, and surgeries in the public eye wasn’t easy. You’ll laugh, cry, wince, and cheer as she chronicles the clash of an avalanche of side effects with 22 major race weekends. Her inspirational tale encompasses the terror of diagnosis, bald heads and black dresses, spectacular stages, parenting with cancer, perspective, and, most importantly, triumph.

Topics discussed in this episode:

05:54: From a clear mammogram to breast cancer 7 weeks later
12:00 Blood transfusions, and why you may need it
16:20: Noisy Cancer Comeback release and day by day timeline of breast cancer
19:08: Starting to loose my long beautiful blond hair
24:00: Giving wigs a go
32:24: Sneak peaks of what's in the book
37:50: Building relationships with your doctors
40:00: The pink ribbon

Resources mentioned in this episode:Fitz Koehler's Website:
http://www.fitzness.com/blog/
Book: Noisy Cancer Comeback by Fitz Koekler:
https://fitzness-store.myshopify.com/Morning Mile:
http://www.fitzness.com/blog/the-morning-mile/Madam Glam Pink Collection:
https://bit.ly/306Zfez

Episode Quotables: "The doctors said the day before your PET scan, no sugar, no carbs, no caffeine. And then when I got there, they injected me with sugar water, and that is because the sugar goes straight to cancer and makes the cancer dance.

"I travel for a living. They all required plane trips. And what my doctors knew was that my career was important to me. It was my passion, and that I needed it. To do my best I needed joy and the things that made me happy."

"I didn't earn breast cancer, so it doesn't belong in the first three lines in my bio. I earned my master's degree, I earned the privilege of being spokesperson for Tropicana and Oakley. So those are things I earned.

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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/survivingbreastcancerorg/

In this episode, we speak with Holly about Superior Gluteal Artery Perforator Flap surgery (aka, SGAP reconstruction). Often times we head into surgery and no always know what to expect. Holly reminds us to not only do our own research, but also ask your surgeons what the protocols are for complications.

Additionally, Holly shares with us, her experience on Aromatase Inhibitors, her side effects, and managing osteopenia. The conversations shared in this episode dive deep into the quality of life we manage while also navigating and advocating for our health.

Say Hi on Social:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/SURVIVINGBREASTCANCER
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/Survivingbreastcancerorg
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/BreastCancerConversations/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SBC_org
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/survivingbreastcancerorg/

_________________________

Subscribe to our newsletter https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/subscribe-1

Donate to our cause https://tinyurl.com/yc9cgt4e

Attend an event https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

Part I with Holly: What Life After Breast Cancer Can be like: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/podcast/episode/47eda6e2/what-life-after-breast-cancer-can-be-like-or-traveling-the-world-with-holly

Life after a breast cancer diagnosis can come with it’s own set of challenges. It can also come with its own set of advantages too! When we are forced to confront our own mortality because of a breast cancer diagnosis, it helps us appreciate the time we have on this marble called planet earth. In today’s episode, we speak with Holly. A breast cancer survivor who sold everything to travel the world with her husband!

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RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

Read more about Holly’s story: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/post/my-breast-cancer-journey-started-long-before-my-diagnosis

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TOPICS DISCUSSED IN THIS EPISODE

02:00: Who is Holly Wintrip

04:33: How do you find medical care abroad

06:20: Finding connections

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This is Part Two of our Live Stream podcast with Abigail Johnston and Alyson Tischler where we talk about the importance of self-advocating and how to build trust with your medical oncology team.

Alyson shares her experience changing oncologists. Abigail talks about the false sense of hope some of us receive when we think we are "cancer-free". When in fact cancer is not curable but the good news is that it is treatable.

Topics discussed in this episode:06:45: How to talk to your doctor about breast cancer, how to be an advocate for yourself?

11:35: Trust and your relationship with your doctors

19:00: Holistic ways to treat side effects

23:00: Honoring Chiara D'Agostino and her advocacy work with Beauty Through the Beast.

27:00: What advice do you have for someone newly diagnosed? Finding a patient mentor.

37:00: Stage IV: We can treat this but we cannot cure this.

42:00: Manifestation of cancer came in the lymph nodes in my neck

Resources:Part I of our conversation can be found here titled What Treatments Are Available for Metastatic Breast Cancer and Triple Negative MBC? https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/podcast/episode/48ad0b4d/what-treatments-are-available-for-metastatic-breast-cancer-and-triple-negative-mbc

_________________________

Say Hi on Social:

· YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/SURVIVINGBREASTCANCER

· Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/Survivingbreastcancerorg

· Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/BreastCancerConversations/

· Twitter: https://twitter.com/SBC_org

· Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/survivingbreastcancerorg/

_________________________

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What Treatments Are Available for Metastatic Breast Cancer and Triple Negative MBC? Today we speak with two women living with advanced stage breast cancer. Also called Stage IV or Metastatic.

Abigail Johnston and Alyson Tischler take us on an in-depth look at treatments and the latest FDA approved drug, Trodelvy (AKA sacituzumab govitecan-hziy) to treat adults diagnosed with metastatic triple-negative breast cancer.

Topics discussed in this episode:08:40: How to talk about Metastatic Breast Cancer. What does it mean to be diagnosed "Metastatic De Novo" 24:34: The ATM Gene Mutation

32:14: Alyson’s story from ER+ to Triple Negative

40:00: What it’s like to be on Trodelvy?

44:17: What’s the next line of treatment? Why this is harder to TNBC

45:00: What is a line of treatment?

-Ibrance, Verzenio and Kisqali

-CKF46 Inhibitors

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Twitter: https://twitter.com/SBC_org
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/survivingbreastcancerorg/

_________________________

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How to self advocate is a topic that comes up often among those diagnosed with breast cancer. We are always telling each other that we have to advocate for ourselves, but really, what does that mean? How can we do it, what are the tools we need, and why are we so concerned about hurting our oncologists' feelings?

This episode is part III of the Livestream podcast we hosted with Liz Mover. Mother, Wife, ICU Nurse and so much more! Parts one and two are below. Part three includes questions about loss and navigating a hysterectomy as well as the important topic of self advocacy. We hear from Liz and LiveStream Audience members about their personal experiences with finding the right medical team; what I'm calling, your "medical fit".

Welcome to the Conversation!

____________________________________________________
Resources and Episodes Mentioned in this episode:
Part 1: What to Expect at the Hospital During COVID
Part 2: Diagnosed with Breast Cancer Under 35

_________________________

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breastcancer #hysterectomy #selfadvocate #patientadvocate

Breast Cancer Under 35 accounts for 2%, 5% or 11% of all breast cancer cases depending on which article you are reading. In today's episode we speak with Liz Mover, diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer at age 34. She's a wife, mother of two boys and is a full-time nurse in the ICU. You will find a wealth of information as we discuss

What to do when you find a lump?
Finding out your results.
How to tell your family and children you have breast cancer? Plus resources for have these conversations with your kids!)
When to continue with Lupron or just have a hysterectomy?
What are the side effects of having a hysterectomy under 40 and being in medical menopause?
What risk factors should we be considering, like osteoporosis?

________________________________________
Resources Mentioned During the Episode:

Part I Podcast with Liz: What to Expect at the Hospital During COVID
Books for Kids: Mom and the Polka-Dot Boo Boo

_________________________

Say Hi on Social:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/SURVIVINGBREASTCANCER
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Twitter: https://twitter.com/SBC_org
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/survivingbreastcancerorg/

_________________________

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Attend an event https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

Mom and the Polka-Dot Boo-Boo

What should you expect when going to the hospital during COVID-19? This is a question that comes up in often, especially amongst those of us diagnosed with breast cancer. Despite treatments being postponed or delayed, there are still a handful of breast cancer survivors and thrivers that go into the hospital for various reasons. For Example, chemotherapy that cannot be delayed; surgery, or a lupron shot. For some, it's because that is where they work!

In today's episode, we speak with ICU nurse and breast cancer warrior, Liz M. She takes us on the inside of what it is like working at a major medical hospital during COVID and how work was the safest place to be. Towards the end of the episode, I share my personal experience of what it was like to be tested for COVID 24 hours prior to my oncology appointment.

_________________________

Say Hi on Social:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/SURVIVINGBREASTCANCER
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/Survivingbreastcancerorg
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/BreastCancerConversations/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SBC_org
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/survivingbreastcancerorg/

_________________________

Subscribe to our newsletter https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/subscribe-1

Donate to our cause https://tinyurl.com/yc9cgt4e

Attend an event https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

Today we go over healthier alternatives for home cleaning with Katerina Gmitter. Katerina is the founder of EcoThriver, an organization that helps cancer survivors make healthier and less toxic cleaning choices. From specific brands to DIY mixtures this podcast will cover non-toxic cleaning tips for your floors, sinks, dishes and dishwashers, clothes and more!
___________________________________________
RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

EcoThriver: https://www.ecothriver.com/myecostory
Healing Respite: https://www.healingpinesrespite.org/
Women’s Voices for the Earth: https://www.womensvoices.org/
Le Creuset LS2024-3067 Enameled Cast Signature Iron Handle Skillet, 11-3/4-Inch, Cerise: https://amzn.to/3i9s6pW
Le Creuset LS2501-2667 Signature Enameled Cast-Iron Round French (Dutch) Oven, 5-1/2-Quart, Cerise: https://amzn.to/2ZciYZ2
Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Combo Cooker, 2-Piece Set, 10.25", Black: https://amzn.to/3i6MK9X
Lodge 3.6 Quart Enamel Cast Iron Casserole Dish with Lid (Carribbean Blue): https://amzn.to/3g87gVR
Palmolive Ultra Dish Soap Oxy Power Degreaser, 32.5 oz - 4 Pack https://amzn.to/3g9RwC5
Ecover Zero Dish Soap, Fragrance Free, 25 Ounce (Pack 6) https://amzn.to/31qG3d1
Ecover Zero Laundry Detergent, Fragrance Free, 93 Ounce (Pack 4) https://amzn.to/2ZtxLPd
Dr. Bronner’s - Pure-Castile Liquid Soap (Baby Unscented, 32 Ounce) https://amzn.to/3i7aRWe
Kirk's 3-in-1 Head to Toe Nourishing Cleanser, 32 fl oz (Original Fresh, 2): https://amzn.to/3g7rsrd

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EPISODE QUOTEABLESI think especially during COVID, as we're trying to really focus on our health and keeping our immune systems up. If your body is fighting a way to break down these chemicals, your body isn't fighting viruses. Our bodies can do what they're supposed to do. And that's fight cancer, fight viruses, fight bacteria, whatever it may be.

________________________
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YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/SURVIVINGBREASTCANCER
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/Survivingbreastcancerorg
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/BreastCancerConversations/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SBC_org
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/survivingbreastcancerorg/

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Subscribe to our newsletter https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/subscribe-1
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Attend an event https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

Ecover Zero Dish Soap, Fragrance Free, 25 Ounce (Pack 6)

Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Signature Round Dutch Oven, 5.5 qt., Cerise

Lodge 3.6 Quart Enamel Cast Iron Casserole Dish with Lid (Carribbean Blue)

Dr. Bronners - Pure-Castile Liquid Soap (Baby Unscented, 32 Ounce) - Made with Organic Oils, 18-in-1 Uses: Face, Hair, Laundry, Dishes, For Sensitive Skin, Babies, No Added Fragrance, Vegan, Non-GMO

3-in-1 Castile Liquid Soap by Kirk’s | Head-to-Toe Natural Shampoo, Face Soap & Body Wash for Men, Women & Children | Coconut Oil + Aloe Vera | Original Fresh Scent | 32 Fl Oz. Pump Bottle (2-Pack)

Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Signature Iron Handle Skillet, 11.75" (2-3/8 qt.), Cerise

Palmolive Ultra Dish Soap Oxy Power Degreaser, 32.5 Fl Oz (Pack of 4)

Lodge Combo Cooker Cast Iron, 10.25", Black

Ecover Zero Laundry Detergent, Fragrance Free, 93 Ounce (Pack 4)

In this episode, Laura and William talk about breast cancer and COVID. It's an update on health and tips as States start opening up. We provide an update from our Thursday Night Thrivers MeetUp and the common questions and concerns breast cancer survivors are experiencing. Finally we provide recommendations and information as outlined by the CDC.

_________________________

Say Hi on Social:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC355eKMBvbMQZgir1Y4sFdA?view_as=subscriber

Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/Survivingbreastcancerorg

Pinterest

https://www.pinterest.com/BreastCancerConversations/

Twitter

https://twitter.com/SBC_org

Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/survivingbreastcancerorg/

_________________________

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Donate to our cause https://tinyurl.com/yc9cgt4e

Attend an event https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

Braving Chemo is written by Dr. Zavaleta. She shares with us her medical background as well as her own personal diagnosis with Triple negative breast cancer.

Dr. Zavaleta tells us about strategies she used to manage the side effects of chemotherapy and outlines remedies and resources to help all of us Brave Chemo!

LINKS:
Braving Chemo Book: amzn.to/3dpOsR8
About Dr. Zavaleta: www.beverlyzavaletamd.com/about-braving-chemo
IG: bzavaletamd
Twitter: @BZavaletaMD

Website: www.survivingbreastcancer.org
IG: @Survivingbreastcancerorg @breastcancerconversations

Cathy Leman, founder of dam. mad. About Breast Cancer, registered dietician, and nutrition therapist, discusses how eating for your "best self" looks different for all of us. Leman examines how a breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and recovery might compel us to make lifestyle changes surrounding our eating and exercise habits. As with all things in life, Leman recommends thinking about nutrition as a balance. We discuss viewing food as power for our bodies, setting intentions, eating to make us feel good, and changing our mindset from "blame" to "balance." Cathy Leman's Website: https://dammadaboutbreastcancer.com/
Learn more about Higher Ground at www.cathyleman.com
Website: Survivingbreastcancer.orgEmail:
Laura@survivingbreastcancer.org

The majority of us have developed cancer for no obvious reason. We didn't have a family history. We didn't have a genetic mutation. A lot of us claim that we were in "the best shape of our lives" when we heard the words, "you have cancer." In today's Podcast, Dr. Nagourney shares with us how cancer uses various pathways to infiltrate and proliferate in our bodies. However, not every pathway is broken. Cancer is devious and can use normal pathways in abnormal ways. In his research, Dr. Nagourney has pioneered personalized medicine based not on genomics, but instead, on cell biology.

Grace is one of the most lovely and articulate ladies we've met on our podcast. She was doing grassroots work in Nigeria when she unexpectedly fainted. After returning to New York and meeting with multiple doctors, she was told that she had breast cancer.But how could this be? She didn't have any of the "usual" symptoms.

Breast Cancer Meets Covid-19 by SurvivingBreastCancer.org

Summary: In this episode, Laura discusses the results of the breast cancer meets Covid-19 survey that was previously sent out to the SBC community. The results revealed that people in the SBC community would like more communication from their doctors. In addition, many of the guidelines for Covid-19 are similar to what individuals going through a breast cancer diagnosis must abide by. As a result, there is a sense of uncertainty as to how to approach certain situations during this time and how to still be able to go through breast cancer treatment when individuals are not able to go to the hospital as often. Laura encourages people to talk to their doctors and to engage in coping strategies in order to feel better during this difficult time.

Topics:
6:02 Similarities between Covid-19 and Breast Cancer
11:44 Statistics on the SBC community’s breast cancer diagnoses
16:42 The impact of Covid-19 in the breast cancer treatment setting
19:40 Coping strategies
22:40 How does Covid-19 impact me

Quotes:
23:18 Laura: “And so I understand that there's this okay, but what about me? How does COVID-19 impacted me specifically, and my particular diagnosis, and that is something I really wanted to communicate as well, that there is this odd dichotomy between what we're experiencing and what we're going through. I would say the major themes that came from this, this survey is that we do have concerns about uncertainty, there's anxiety and fear, and then we're also getting conflicted information.”

Socials:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/SURVIVINGBREASTCANCER
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/Survivingbreastcancerorg
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/BreastCancerConversations/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SBC_org
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/survivingbreastcancerorg/

_________________________

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A breast cancer diagnosis can feel lonely at times. It's natural for us to want to connect with others who are experiencing something similar, whether that is losing your hair from chemo, deciding on what type of surgery is best for you, or navigating the path of (in)fertility. In today's episode we speak with April Stearns, Founder and Editor-In-Chief of Wildfire Magazine. A magazine created with young women diagnosed with breast cancer in mind. April shares her personal story after being diagnosed with Stage III breast cancer at the age of 35. Her daughter was three years old. April speaks to the delicate topics of childbearing, genetic testing, breast feeding, and her decision to have a single mastectomy and forego reconstruction. While breast cancer is a heavy topic, April brings hope and joy to the conversation. She has created space for the community to flourish.Welcome to the ConversationLINKS:www.survivingbreastcancer.orgwww.breastcancerconversations.orgwww.wildfirecommunity.org

Veronica shares her tips and advice of what it was like for her leading up to her single mastectomy. We've never gone through this before, how do we prepare? What is that day like when they ask us to come in really early in the morning for prep prior to the surgery. Veronica share her experience so that it can help calm the nerves of others. Veronica was diagnosed with Stage II breast cancer. She is a single woman and carries the fortitude to navigate her breast cancer journey. From taking herself to and from appointments and recovering from a single mastectomy, reminds us that we have the strength to do this! Like so many of us, our families are spread out. When you find out you have a breast cancer diagnosis, you are flooded with questions and emotions. Veronica shares her advice about what she wishes she had known leading up to the day of surgery.

Topics:
4:05 Veronica’s initial diagnosis
13:25 Surgery
24:19 Radiation
30:20 Post-mastectomy reconstruction
38:18 Chest port
42:15 Chemotherapy
44:10 Eating and lifestyle changes

Resources:
Podigy https://podigy.co/

Quotes:
51:57 Veronica: “So I mean, so there's good that comes out of, you know, having to go through these breast cancer journeys. And I think that's where my strength has come so I can end on that note, even when I lost my hair, I got up, I put my makeup on. The American Cancer Society has a beauty class, and they give you beautiful makeup. And they teach you how to draw in your eyebrows. And you're surrounded with other women who have just recently been diagnosed, and have this surgery. So if you can be you can survive this. You can come out stronger, and you can become the person you never thought you could be.”

Socials:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/SURVIVINGBREASTCANCER
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/Survivingbreastcancerorg
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/BreastCancerConversations/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SBC_org
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/survivingbreastcancerorg/

_________________________

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Attend an event https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

In our third part of In Memory of Kerensa, Glenn, her husband, takes us on the path of what it is like living with stage IV breast cancer. Kerensa's breast cancer had recurred. It had spread to her bones and was in her pelvis and spin. Over the course of a year it had taken over most of her body. This episode sheds light on the realities of a stage 4 breast cancer diagnosis. All stages of breast cancer are treatable and while there is still no cure, doctors, medical professionals and scientists are working diligently to one day say there is an end to breast cancer.

Socials:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/SURVIVINGBREASTCANCER
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/Survivingbreastcancerorg
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/BreastCancerConversations/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SBC_org
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/survivingbreastcancerorg/

_________________________

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Attend an event https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

This is Part II of our series in honor of Kerensa Irvin. In this episode we experience the wedding, shopping for the wedding dress, and life of a women diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 22. Towards the end of the episode we learn that the cancer has returned and Kerensa has now been diagnosed with Stage IV breast cancer.

Socials:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/SURVIVINGBREASTCANCER
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/Survivingbreastcancerorg
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/BreastCancerConversations/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SBC_org
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/survivingbreastcancerorg/

_________________________

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Donate to our cause https://tinyurl.com/yc9cgt4e

Attend an event https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

In this episode we are going to talk about toxicity. Sure, we are familiar with returning from a vacation and needing to quote “detox”, maybe it’s a week of smoothies and prepping healthy meals, or sweating it out at the gym to release toxins. When you are diagnosed with cancer, we also talk about toxcitity. This is typically within the context of chemotheraphy or radiation where the benefits of the treatment out weight the risk. Today we are going to take a deep dive into the financial burden of a breast cancer diagnosis. It’s the elephant in the room right? We have amazing doctors who talk to us about treatment options, surgery options, what’s taking place in the most recent and cutting edge studies as well as the outcomes and our prognosis. But who is talking to us about the cost of a cancer diagnosis? We know the cost of the therapies and treatments are outrageously high, but what about the unintended costs associated with your diagnosis. Are you financially prepared to take time off from work to make it to weekly chemo infusions, or pay for parking when you return the next day for a neulasta shot? What about finding child care so you can attend your follow up appointments? These additional costs can sneak up on you and really become a hardship. That is to ask, are we financially toxic? Are we living with financial toxcitiy? To help shed light on this topic we speak with Dr. Ryan Nipp who has studied this very topic. Dr. Ryan Nipp is a gastrointestinal oncologist and health services researcher at the Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center. He completed his medicine residency at Duke University and oncology fellowship at Dana-Farber/Harvard Cancer Center. Dr. Nipp’s research focuses on optimizing the care delivered to patients with cancer. Specifically, his research platform consists of studies interfacing between palliative care, geriatric oncology, and health services research. His goal is to improve the quality of life and care for patients with cancer and their family. He is interested in developing models of healthcare delivery to improve patients’ quality of life, address their symptom burden, and promote patient-centered decision-making.

Topics:
-Financial Toxicity dating back to 2010-How to make it easier for patients (i.e., is there a pill they can take at home vs coming into the infusion center).
-Working with vulnerable population and being able to reimburse transportation for clinical trials.
-Can we engage with industry so that it is a win-win?
-The Cost Measure instrument to assess financial toxicity
-Palliative Care; people are living better and living longer with early intervention of palliative care.

Tweetables:
"We're very good about describing the problem… what can we do about it?"
"We now have the highest amount of evidence that palliative care works we now need to start implementing this."

Socials:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/SURVIVINGBREASTCANCER
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/Survivingbreastcancerorg
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/BreastCancerConversations/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SBC_org
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/survivingbreastcancerorg/

_________________________

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Donate to our cause https://tinyurl.com/yc9cgt4e

Attend an event https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

Meet Kerensa, a lively energetic young lady who captures attention everywhere she goes. A recent college grad who moves across country to marry the man of her dreams, when, unexpectedly, she is diagnosed with breast caner at the age of 22. This is part I of a series where we capture the essence of Kerensa, her character, her persona, and her diagnosis through the lens of her husband, Glenn. We celebrate Kerensa's life with the release of this series today, Feb 28th, which would have been her 26th birthday.

Socials:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/SURVIVINGBREASTCANCER
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/Survivingbreastcancerorg
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/BreastCancerConversations/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SBC_org
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/survivingbreastcancerorg/

_________________________

Subscribe to our newsletter https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/subscribe-1

Donate to our cause https://tinyurl.com/yc9cgt4e

Attend an event https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

Chances are if you are listening to this episode, it’s because you personally have gone through radiation treatment or will be going through treatment soon. I am pleased to be connecting with Dr. Rachel Jimenez on our podcast today. She provides us with a thorough and comprehensive description of radiation therapy. What it is, why it's beneficial, and the long-term risks we should know about in order to manage our health. Stay tuned until the end because we answer your questions of why radiation increases your risk of developing lymphedema if you had your lymph nodes removed. It’s all here for you in the episode, welcome to the conversation.

TOPICS COVERED IN THIS EPISODE
-People who refuse aspects of therapy including radiation.
-What to expect when going in for radiation-Planning appointment
-What is radiation and why would I need it?
-Radiation and skin care
-Proton Beam Radiation (the science behind protons; a number of clinical trials exploring proton beam radiation in the breast cancer community to minimize cardiac toxicity).
-Risks association with radiation, but we still sign the consent. As a young breast cancer survivor, I ask Dr. Jimenez to explain the 10, 20 and 50 year plan for women who go through treatment.

HEALTH RISKS
-Cardiac toxicity
-Field of cardio oncology partners and have mapped out the ideal
-Herceptin and anthracyclines. After 5 years of survivorship, you should have a cardiac stress test.
-Getting a baseline with an ultrasound of the heart so if there are changes, doctors can track them.
-Our job (in Radiation Oncology) in follow up is to open up and make sure that referrals are made. How is your nutrition? Are you exercising? Did you schedule your next mammogram?

QUOTES:
"Your providers are your providers for life". "You are never a bother, it is our job and privilege to take care of you! "

Socials:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/SURVIVINGBREASTCANCER
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/Survivingbreastcancerorg
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/BreastCancerConversations/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SBC_org
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/survivingbreastcancerorg/

_________________________

Subscribe to our newsletter https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/subscribe-1

Donate to our cause https://tinyurl.com/yc9cgt4e

Attend an event https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

In this episode on Breast Cancer Conversations we have the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Van Londen. I know you are all going to love this conversation. It literally is your personal one on one consultation with an expert in managing life after a cancer diagnosis.
Topics include:
-Reprioritizing -Estrogen therapies (pros and cons)
-Longer Term risks of anti-estrogen treatment
-Zometa Infusions to support bone health to minimize bone loss
-Grief
-Brain Fog
-How to make up for lost time
-Quality of life
-Developmental phases in life.
“Don’t let perfect be the enemy of good”

If this podcast resonates with you, please be sure to share it and tag @breastcancerconversations on social so I can read your comments and take aways! Can’t wait to see you in the comments. Welcome to the conversations. Thank you to Podigy (https://podigy.co/) for helping edit and master this episode.

Socials:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/SURVIVINGBREASTCANCER
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/Survivingbreastcancerorg
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/BreastCancerConversations/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SBC_org
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/survivingbreastcancerorg/

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Donate to our cause https://tinyurl.com/yc9cgt4e

Attend an event https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

Dr Buckanovich highlights three major areas of need within ovarian cancer. We discuss the link between ovarian cancer and breast cancer, specifically if you carry a BRCA gene mutation. He shares exciting developments recently found in treating ovarian cancers that could potentially be an option for treating TNBC. We continued our discussion on genomic sequencing going beyond the standard of care looking at DNA and zooming in on RNA sequencing.

Topics:
8:15: Big area of need is a diagnostic test for ovarian cancer
11:00: New approaches to treatment coupling with immunotherapies
17:01: The role of Artificial Intelligence. What best predicts ovarian cancer
21:50: What are the symptoms of Ovarian Cancer
26:40: Ovarian Cancer survival rates
31:02: Salpingo-oophorectomy
35:30: Types of treatment utilized for ovarian cancer (PARP inhibitors, Platinum based agents)

Socials:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/SURVIVINGBREASTCANCER
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/Survivingbreastcancerorg
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/BreastCancerConversations/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SBC_org
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/survivingbreastcancerorg/

_________________________

Subscribe to our newsletter https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/subscribe-1

Donate to our cause https://tinyurl.com/yc9cgt4e

Attend an event https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

Recorded during our visit to the Magee-Womens Research Institute and Foundation in Pittsburgh, PA, this week’s episode marks the first in a series that will be released over the coming weeks. In today’s instalment, we take a close look at the groundbreaking research occurring at this remarkable institute by interviewing Investigators Dr. Steffi Oesterreich and Dr. Adrian Lee, and CEO Michael Annichine regarding their work there.

Episode Highlights:
-The important role that advocacy groups play
-Clinical trials and the need to promote them
-The ever evolving use of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in research
-The importance of data sharing among researchers

Quotes:
“We’re not treating a disease, we’re treating patients.”“Let’s hear from those patients as we take that journey with them, not for them.”
“They have a passion to make a difference.”
“We need to promote things like being on clinical trials.”
“Breast cancer has been a trailblazer for new therapies, new diagnoses, new treatments, and the outcomes have improved tremendously.”
“We think when they leave the lab... that they really understand breast cancer as a whole and not just here’s the cell and the gene.”
“5 years from now things will have changed so much.”
“Let go of feeling like you need to be in control, because the science is moving so quickly, and we’re all trying to figure it out.”
“We should all share all our data…we should put it out there because others will make use of it.”
Links: Surviving Breast Cancer homepage: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/Magee-Womens Research Institute & Foundation: https://mageewomens.org/

We discuss cold caps as a tool for perserving your hair during chemotherapy. Become a Patron: https://www.patreon.com/user?u=23671754

Summary: Caitlyn Edmonds discusses her experience with chemotherapy and radiation along with the use of cold caps during her cancer treatment. She also talks about how she has stayed involved in the cancer community post-cancer treatment. She discusses all of the support that she received during her treatment and the steps she took to keep her hair during her treatment.

Topics:
2:20 Introduction to cold caps
11:39 Caitlyn’s story of chemo and radiation
15:03 Caitlyn’s experience with cold caps
22:32 Caitlyn’s skin during chemo and radiation
24:29 Post treatment care

Resources:
34:40 Patreon https://www.patreon.com/

Quotes:
21:31 Caitlyn: “So you get cancer and like basically, it's like a glass shattered inside of you. And there's like, all these shards everywhere. And he's like, so You had chemo which is what you do first, right? Like you get a towel and you like pick up all those like huge chunks and like everything out. So that's all gone. And then you had surgery, which was like getting the broom and like sweeping it all and you're like, Okay, great. Like, it looks like totally clear. Nothing's there. And he's like, but a couple weeks later, you're walking around and there's like those teeny tiny little like things that still get you and he's like, you should have gone around with dustbuster. And like all those little last pieces, he's like, that's my job. Like, I'm the dustbuster and I'm getting everything that like everyone else can't see.”

28:00 Laura: "I think that's a normal feeling even, like, this day, like some days, I don't think about cancer at all other days, I think about it way too much. And you know what I was walking into work the other day and was just like, I'm healthy. Like, when was the last time I was like, healthy? You know? And it's like, almost surreal, because you're so used to being like the patient and managing cancer."

Socials:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/SURVIVINGBREASTCANCER
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/Survivingbreastcancerorg
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/BreastCancerConversations/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SBC_org
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/survivingbreastcancerorg/

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Subscribe to our newsletter https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/subscribe-1
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Attend an event https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

Egg Retrieval at 6am. 1st Chemo at 11am | Interview with Caitlin Edmonds, TNBC

In this episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, Caitlin Edmunds discusses her cancer diagnosis and the various challenges she had to overcome. She talks about getting a second opinion on her diagnosis, her experience with egg retrieval, and her chemotherapy treatment. Lastly, she discusses her genetic testing results.

Topics:
3:26 Caitlin’s initial diagnosis
17:00 Getting a second opinion
24:46 Egg retrieval explanation
27:38 Port placement
30:02 Caitlin’s egg retrieval and cancer treatment
33:46 Genetic testing

Resources:
None mentioned

Quotes:
12:45 Laura: I hate the waiting period. The anxiety is like through the roof. And and then now Okay, so it's like confirmed, but you still don't have a lot of answers. Or, you know, for my experience, also, like I didn't even know what the path was right. Like you You hear about chemotherapy or you hear about surgery, like, I, when I heard the word breast cancer, I'm just like, okay, like, I don't know if I was naive or just shocked. I was just like, okay, I just don't know what that means.

15:05 Caitlin: You know, I'm in my gown and they put on a YouTube video of what breast cancer is. And that was my first like experience and it was--a video first?--Yeah. And it was like, and I had no I didn't, nothing is pointing to my state. I didn't know what kind and I mean, literally, I was like, Am I dying tomorrow? Am I gonna be fine? Like, I didn't know. They put on a video and it's like a 65 year old woman going through menopause and breast cancer and I'm like, Okay, well, this I like this does not related to me. Like I it was awful. And then the oncologist came in, who was not my favorite person. She was pretty cold. And again, looking back I have a lot more experience now where I get that they're not gonna like sit and cry with you and but she just did not have there was no warm feelings. There was no nothing like that not great bedside manner. And so they didn't tell me honestly, even that day, a ton. It was a couple weeks later when I was on like a genetic counselor called I even found out that I was triple negative. She'd my oncologist didn't tell me that in the beginning, which maybe she assumed we knew things I don't know, I knew nothing again, I didn't know that was kinds of breast cancer and the only thing she really told me was that it was grade three, so it was aggressive.

19:40 Laura: I always advocate like, get as many opinions as you need until you find an oncologist that pretty much is going to be your best friend.

Socials:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/SURVIVINGBREASTCANCER
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/Survivingbreastcancerorg
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/BreastCancerConversations/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SBC_org
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/survivingbreastcancerorg/

__________________________

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Donate to our cause https://tinyurl.com/yc9cgt4e

Attend an event https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

Understanding the Complexities of Genetic Testing. An Interview with Genetics Counselor, Fatima Amir, M.S., LGC.

Summary: The SBC team discusses the implications of genetic testing with Genetic Counselor Fatima Amir. The team and Fatima discuss the BRCA 1 and 2 genes, the statistics of breast cancer, and the various types of genetic testing. In addition, Fatima highlights the importance of strong communication with one’s family and how family history may or may not be indicative of a future cancer diagnosis. Lastly, Fatima illustrates the importance of broadening the demographic of genetic testing.

Topics:
6:21 Introduction to genetics
9:54 Statistics of breast cancer
10:35 BRCA 1 and 2
15:39 Lifetime risk
26:22 Additional testing
37:37 Relevance of family communication and family history
43:17 The future of genetics
45:17 Bringing genetic testing to new demographics
1:02:23 Discussing genetic testing with patients

Resources:
None mentioned.
Quotes:
Fatima 39:00 “Family communication thing is a big thing that can come up. And so sometimes what I'll I'll offer to do for patients is write a family letter, kind of a generic letter that I can type up that so they don't have to worry about having to have all the details or anything like that there. But I can write a generic kind of letter and then send it to our patient and then they can kind of forward it and edit it as they please to customize it, send it to their relatives, so they don't have to worry about having that conversation or anything like that.”

Fatima 60:15 “I like to remind people don't blame yourself for having done something, if I just did this differently if I just did this differently. There's also a big percentage of cancer that happens because just nature isn't perfect. And ourselves. Exactly. Are. You think about, you know, when we talked about all that DNA in our, in each of our cells, there's billions and billions of letters and each of our cells and every time a cell is replicating, it has to copy all of those letters each time. So think about a Xerox machine. And if that's copying again, and again, it's bound to make an error at some point.”

Socials:
Say Hi on Social:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/SURVIVINGBREASTCANCER
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/Survivingbreastcancerorg
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/BreastCancerConversations/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SBC_org
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/survivingbreastcancerorg/

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Attend an event https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

Radical Mastectomy & Going Flat | Interview with Alicia Duncan (Part II) by SurvivingBreastCancer.org

Summary: In this episode, the surviving breast cancer team discusses Alicia’s struggle with her stage III breast cancer diagnosis and the loss of her breasts. The team highlights how a fast cancer diagnosis can take a toll on one’s mental health along with the PTSD that may come in the aftermath of being cured of cancer. Lastly, Alicia explains her tattoos and both Alicia and Angela discuss the strength needed to be a caregiver.

Topics:
4:51 Losing your breasts
18:33 Types of mastectomies
22:39 Rapid cancer diagnosis
30:51 Alicia’s tattoo
34:46 Being a caregiver

Resources:
1:30 Patreon https://www.patreon.com/

Quotes:
9:45 Alicia: “You're a woman trying to date another woman who, they're gonna want you to have breasts. That's part of what makes you a woman. That's one thing anyways, you know, it's a big thing. So when you don't have them, that's a very scary thing. You know? couldn't look at myself in the mirror. How do I expect some random stranger wants to date me to look at me in the mirror? So I had a friend tell me and I will PG this. But she said, if someone doesn't want to date you because you have no breasts because you lost them due to breast cancer then F them. And I said, you know, that is 100% true. And so when I did it, Angela and I talked about it. She said, before she even knew that conversation. You know, she said, I don't care that you don't have breasts, I care that you're here and that's what matters to me. So with breasts or no breasts.”

14:10 Laura: “Some days I felt really, really empowered, like I'm doing it. And I'm excited, I can't wait. And then there were other days to talking to people of like, well, if I did reconstruction, and they're taking either like deep flap tissue, or taking like the lat muscle from your back to do the reconstruction, I was hearing interesting stories in my research of, yeah, every time I open the spaghetti sauce jar, and use this muscle, and my breast would twitch. Because your muscle from your back is now in your front. or anytime you do weird things like in your car, moving or like, I heard these interesting stories of like the muscle didn't yet pick up on the memory that it got moved. Oh, and it was flexing.. In weird times. And I'm like, interesting. Well, at the time I practiced yoga a lot, it was really important for me to stay fit. Like, what if? What if changing these body parts were no longer natural? And I just had so many questions.”

Socials:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/SURVIVINGBREASTCANCER
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/Survivingbreastcancerorg
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/BreastCancerConversations/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SBC_org
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/survivingbreastcancerorg/

_________________________

Subscribe to our newsletter https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/subscribe-1
Donate to our cause https://tinyurl.com/yc9cgt4e
Attend an event https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

Diagnosed with Stage III at 27 & Thriving 8 years later | Interview with Alicia Duncan by SurvivingBreastCancer.org

Summary: The Surviving Breast Cancer team and Alicia and Angela Duncan share stories from their cancer diagnosis and treatment. The team discusses Angela’s involvement with Hip Hemp LLC and the creation of vaginal pearls to combat against vaginal dryness. In addition, Alicia shares the raw details of her emotions during her treatment and how she used comedy to cope with her diagnosis.

Topics:
6:02 Finding a new normal
17:08 Vaginal dryness
28:23 Alicia’s story
36:03 Alicia receiving her cancer diagnosis
39:44 Laura’s cancer diagnosis
44:31 Radiation tattoos
49:36 How Alicia coped with her treatment

Resources:
0:55 Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/

Quotes:
9:39 Laura: “And I talked to somebody recently to who use the words I am healing from cancer because she was also metastatic, but talking about every single day, she's like fueling her body with like nutrients and everything to say, you know what, I don't even want to acknowledge the stage that I'm in because that's irrelevant. I'm living, right and you're overcoming and your challenge, everyone should be so proud of themselves, because this isn't something that we chose, it happened to us. We are. We were, I mean, we have choices, but really it's. Do I sign the consent form and take this like terrible chemotherapy? Or do I take my chances? And like, I don't know, try some other natural paths to see what I can do. And it's all such a very personal choice. So I appreciate you kind of just diving right in and opening up that landscape right there.”

31:20 Alicia: “I used to say cancer, you know, it will take my hair, it will take my breast, but it's not going to take who I am. And that's what I told her. When I had to deal with the new norm. I thought I don't even you know, changed everything about me. But I said it's not going to take who I am inside. And it didn't you know, and that didn't change no matter what stage it was or now is.”

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Dr. Monique Gary | We deserve to be kind to ourselves. This is how. by SurvivingBreastCancer.org

Summary: Laura and Dr. Monique Gary discuss the challenges that women face in the aftermath of their cancer diagnosis and treatment. Dr. Gary highlights vaginal dryness and how to take steps to ease into intimacy again. In addition, Laura and Dr. Gary discuss how women can feel empowered and how their doctors can support them on their journey to empowerment.

Topics:
7:50 Vaginal dryness and intimacy
19:46 Being vulnerable
22:54 Dr. Gary’s approach to communicating with patients
34:04 Ever changing diagnoses
38:31 Sex and feeling empowered

Resources:
0:57 Patreon https://www.patreon.com/

Quotes:
8:54 Laura: “You know, we've heard terrible stories of just like relationships falling apart because, not because of the breast cancer, but because of the aftermath of the breast cancer diagnosis, you know, how do we empower the women to feel confident in their bodies and their skin and their new, like breast forms, or however they're going about it? I was talking to another gentleman, and he was like you were going through chemo, you were so sensitive, I could barely hug you. Yeah. Now, how am I supposed to make love to you, because I don't want to hurt you. And so how can we find these new ways of pressing each other and new ways of just appreciating each other? In intimate ways?”

44:20 Dr. Gary“But the, you know, the best thing that we can do is to be loving with yourself, you know, and to lovingly do that and say, you know what, I'm doing this, this is my coping mechanism right now, because I need to, I would like to see myself here. And it's not saying that I'm not doing, you know, you got to get rid of the negative self talk. But to say the person that I am that I want to be I see myself being more balanced. I see myself being, you know, having time for pleasure and redefining pleasure. I see myself making more time in my day for these things, and I'm not there right now. I'm starting to see why I'm not there right now. And it's really unpack that but just be really loving with yourself and say, You know what, that's where I want to be.”

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In today's podcast Breast Cancer Conversations, we speak with breast cancer thriver, Kandace McMenomy from Laguna Beach, CA. It is such a pleasure speaking with Kandace. She is full of positivity, experiences, and a great outlook on life. As a marathon runner, she never imaged that she would be diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 30. 5 years later, it had metastasized throughout her body. She still runs, appreciates every day, and is responding well to her current treatments. Welcome to the conversation.

Podcast with Kandace:
Lupron side effects 3:30
Lymphedema 4:40
Marathon runner and finding out I had cancer at the age 30. 10:12
What just happened to me (Kandace)? 13:45
How did Laura find out she had cancer 27:50
Lymph node involvement 33:00
Fertility and harvesting eggs 38:00
Kadance’s treatment plan with chemo and radiation 40:00
Don’t take things for granted 45:00
Remaining on Lupron and Stopping the Aromatases Inhibitors (Exemestane) 48:00
5-year mark diagnosed with metastatic 6 months after having a clear pet scan 51:34
Ibrance 55:00
Should we have our ovaries removed? 58:00
How am I handling treatment, how do you define tired? 1:01:00
Did you ever get back into running marathons after your diagnosis? 1:08:00

Related Podcasts: With Krystle Hensley: https://soundcloud.com/user-870312088/diagnosed-at-27-brca-an

0:35 Store my tumor https://storemytumor.com/

Quotes:
1:11:05 Kandace: “So I remember coming up to, you know, towards the end of the race, and about a mile and a half, yet to the finish line, I just come up to this crowd of people that are stopped. And I don't run with my phone. And I thought, oh my god, what? Why are we stopped and not none of us knew what we're going what was going on? We started to hear the helicopters and I thought something weird is going on. So I asked somebody that was standing next to me if I could borrow their phone to call my mom because my mom and her girlfriend, my aunt and uncle were at the finish line . And I couldn't get through, right. So I use the phone to call my dad in LA. And I said, you need to get ahold of mom and you need to tell me where I'm supposed to go.”

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Dr. Amy Comander | Lifestyle Medicine and Breast Cancer by SurvivingBreastCancer.org

Summary: In this episode, Laura and Dr. Amy Comander, the director of breast oncology and cancer survivorship at MGH Waltham and Newton Wellesley hospital discuss the topic of lifestyle medicine and how to holistically remain healthy during and after cancer treatment. They discuss the flexibility of a patient’s treatment and how doctors often alter plans slightly during the treatment depending on how the patient responds to a specific medicine or treatment plan. Lastly, Dr. Comander describes how her survivorship program was created and her work as a medical advisor to the one in forty non-profit organization.

Topics:
0:03 Introduction
10:22 The flexibility of breast cancer treatment plans
17:04 Finding support during and after treatment
36:07 Lifestyle medicine
42:00 Dr. Comander survivorship program
52:18 Individuals with Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry and their likelihood of a breast cancer diagnosis

Resources:
Store My Tumor: https://storemytumor.com/
Lifestyle Medicine Handbook: https://www.amazon.com/Lifestyle-Medicine-Handbook-Introduction-Healthy/dp/1606794132
One in forty: https://oneinforty.org/

Quotes:
Dr. Comander 43:08: Right. I hear this a lot from patients for sure that you look normal, right? They don't feel quite normal inside. And so sometimes that's really hard to navigate. Yeah, but yeah, so I was really for a few years now, I've been really excited about launching my own breast cancer survivorship program for my patients. And I've met Dr. Beth Frates a few years ago, and we've been meeting about this for a while. And so it was really excited to get this started this fall. And I was fortunate to get a number to run for Team Newton Wellesley hospital to raise money for this particular program. And by the way, I don't tell my patients they have to run a marathon, a few asked if they could join the marathon team and I was like, maybe not right now finish chemotherapy first. Certainly, I have some of my patients have really taken up running which is pretty inspiring.

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The Lifestyle Medicine Handbook: An Introduction to the Power of Healthy Habits

Life Coaching after Breast Cancer with Andrea Magni and Laura Dubois by SurvivingBreastCancer.org

Summary: In this episode, Laura and the surviving breast cancer team discuss career coaching with Andrea Magni and Laura Dubois, two breast cancer survivors who chose to begin career coaching after their cancer diagnosis and treatment. Both individuals express how they felt off track after their breast cancer diagnosis and treatment, but found their calling again through career coaching. In the middle of the episode, Laura leads us through a breathing exercise. Lastly, they both discuss the specifics of their diagnosis and treatment and how they were able to deal with going through the difficult times during treatment.

Topics:
6:15 Introductions
17:11 How Laura got into Career Coaching
20:23 How Andrea got into Career Coaching
31:23 Breathing exercise
36:06 Laura’s experience going in for an x-ray
40:06 Laura’s breast cancer diagnosis
56:32 Andrea’s breast cancer diagnosis

Resources:
Store My Tumor https://storemytumor.com/
Laura’s blog https://lauraslandingplace.blogspot.com/
Laura’s website https://www.headcoachlaura.com/

Quotes:
14:16 Andrea: And within that should also be a, I think what you're saying is being held, especially like in in, in a work environment, you don't want to be constantly looking for sympathy. There is an element of you do want to be included in some of those projects. And you do want to be asked for your input. So you don't want to be excluded. And how do you bridge between suffering from these the fact that these people don't understand what I'm going through, and I'm sitting here and I'm in pain or I’m uncomfortable and actually being productive, but you have to balance, you have to find something. So there must be tools that you can work with and I think that's what coaches are good for, is to find tools for that resilience or to build it up. To build boundaries for yourself.

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Molecular Breast Imaging with Dr. Ha and Breast Cancer Thriver Leslie Yerger by SurvivingBreastCancer.org

Summary: In this episode, Laura discusses molecular breast imaging (MBI) with Dr. Ha and breast cancer survivor Leslie Yerger. Dr. Ha explains the various options for breast cancer imaging along with the pros of using MBIs versus other forms of imaging. In addition, Laura, Dr. Ha, and Leslie discuss the lack of education around MBIs and how patients should advocate for themselves if they feel they need to obtain an MBI specifically instead of a mammogram or a PET scan, for example. Lastly, Laura, Dr. Ha, and Leslie discuss the importance of genetic testing to determine whether an individual is at risk for breast cancer and screening for 5 years post breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Topics:
2:43 Dr. Ha’s introduction
3:44 Leslie’s introduction
9:47 Breast cancer imaging options and molecular breast imaging specifically
19:37 Lobular breast cancer imaging and what to look for in x-rays
21:24 How to perform self-checks for breast cancer and an explanation of how molecular breast imaging works
43:46 Providing resources for molecular breast imaging education
46:37 Genetic testing
52:22 High-risk screening

Resources:
Store My Tumor https://storemytumor.com/

Quotes:
42:00: Dr. Ha: My only job is to find breast cancer. And if it means that I, you know, I'm whatever I need to do. So that's really why like, I feel like I need to know what what's your history, I need to know, you know, if I see that you have a very high risk, right, and I just don't see anything and I'm sure that, you know, I feel like you're going to get breast cancer at some point, you can bet your you know, but that I'm, I'm gonna, I'm gonna do everything that I need to do to make sure that it's not there when I look. And that if it pops up between the time that I see you today, and the next time that you come that I'm going to catch it at the earliest point, I mean, this is the best that we can do. But I have an extra toy that nobody else has, and you know, I use it. And it helps me you know, so I think that when people see that it really is helpful when we get this information out to people. When doctors see how helpful it is when patients realize that there's something else that they can use, and they basically say listen I want this test. I think that you know, with education that we will get better.

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What You Need To Know About Tumor Preservation, with Michel Sadaka. by SurvivingBreastCancer.org

Summary: In this episode, Laura and the surviving breast cancer team discuss tumor preservation with Michel Sadaka, the founder of Store My Tumor. Sadaka explains what exactly immunotherapy is and also goes into detail about what happens behind the scenes at Store My Tumor and how scientists will analyze an individual’s tumor and come up with a personalized treatment for that individual. Lastly, the surviving breast cancer team and Sadaka discuss how cancer is not a perfect science, and the technology in the cancer world along with the knowledge regarding cancers and tumors is always growing.

Topics:
2:14 What scientists do at Store My Tumor
9:19 Immunotherapies
19:19 Finding clinical trials
22:41 Access to Store My Tumor resources
27:42 Misconceptions heard about tumors
32:16 Personalized treatment and cross-referencing results during a diagnosis
41:14 Cancer is not a perfect science
47:15 Getting in touch with store my tumor

Resources:
Patreon https://www.patreon.com/
Store My Tumor https://storemytumor.com/

Quotes:
13:38 Michel Sadaka: “This is personalized medicine. So we have to consider different tools and we have these different applications or tools that we can juggle, but we have to right size it to the right to the patient at the right stage.”

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Emily Garnett & Laura Carfang; When Two Breast Cancer Podcasters Finally Connect by SurvivingBreastCancer.org

Summary: In this episode, Laura and Emily interview each other about their respective podcasts and organizations. They each explain what inspired them to create these organizations, their diagnosis, and many of the struggles they have been through. Emily provides insight into how to tell your children about your breast cancer diagnosis and how to provide support for individuals with a stage 4 cancer diagnosis.

Topics:
8:28 Why Emily decided to start her podcast
11:41 Emily’s diagnosis
12:56 Metastatic de novo breast cancer
25:00 Emily’s biopsy and PET scan
29:40 Telling children about your breast cancer diagnosis
39:21 Creating dialogue
41:55 Origins of survivingbreastcancer.org
54:32 How to provide support to someone with stage 4 cancer
1:08:05 Emily’s blog and podcast

Resources:
Store my tumor https://storemytumor.com/
Emily’s website: https://emilygarnett.wordpress.com/
Podcast: The intersection of cancer in life
Podcast website: https://theintersectionofcancerandlife.libsyn.com/

Quotes:
35:36 Emily: “It's so sweet and I feel like kids are such great conduits for so many important conversations. And for us, it really became a point where we could go, we could really start talking about a lot of the more nuanced aspects of people can identify as women. And that that those things, those characteristics aren't necessarily like the only defining characteristics. And then that has actually been a great teaching point in that not only like raising a little boy to recognize, you know, that there is a much bigger element of gender fluidity that that we don't recognize and sometimes really in the breast cancer community too. We can, we can kind of fall short of recognizing it because It's so stereotypically a female disease and like my, my, my grandfather had had breast cancer. And so, it, it's always been very important for me to recognize that breast cancer isn't necessarily something that women get, and that people who have breast cancer don't necessarily identify as women and you don't get however, however, their presentation might be.”

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(Updated) I'm a Triathlete I think It's a Stress Fracture; No, It's Stage IV Breast Cancer: Interview with Deb Williams by SurvivingBreastCancer.org

Summary: In today’s episode, Deb discusses her unique cancer diagnosis with Laura. They talk about her hospital experience, the experience of being under anesthesia, laxatives, and Deb’s lifestyle. Deb’s contagious energy radiates throughout the episode and can be used to inspire listeners.

Topics:
4:10 Deb’s Introduction and diagnosis
14:15 Medicine isn’t a perfect science
15:10 Deb’s treatment
33:02 Deb’s rod in her hip breaks
40:00 Laxatives
46:30 What does Deb currently do
50:29 Breakdown situation

Resources:
Store My Tumor https://storemytumor.com/

Quotes:
7:48 Deb: “He said well, you have a nine millimeter tumor and your femur is broken in three places. And it's cancer and we don't know what kind, total blank at that point. I was like, okay, I heard nothing. His mouth was moving. But nothing was going in my ears at that point. I looked over at my girlfriends that were there, they frantically took out notebooks and were writing every single word. They were scribing because I didn't know what to say. And then he's like, I'm going to give you a couple minutes, and I'm going to leave the room and come back. He goes, read the notes from your girlfriends. Because he knew I wasn't listening. I was like, I have no idea.”

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It's In My Blood, Now That's Humor, with Blogger Jeff Neurman by SurvivingBreastCancer.org

Summary: In this episode, Laura discusses finding the humor in a cancer diagnosis with Jeff Neurman, a lawyer who decided to blog about his experience with cancer. Jeff explains his diagnosis, the various chemo drugs he was on, why he decided to begin blogging, and how oncologists discuss cancer diagnoses with patients. Laura and Jeff exchange stories and connect with each other over similarities in their cancer journey.

Topics:
6:31 When and why Jeff decided to begin blogging
13:40 Jeff’s diagnosis
20:26 Chemo drugs
26:15 Discussing your diagnosis and treatment plan with your oncologist and others
45:52 Support from family and friends during a cancer diagnosis and treatment
1:00:48 Misunderstandings in medicine
1:08:14 Jeff’s blog

Resources:
Store My Tumor https://storemytumor.com/
Jeff’s blog https://itsinmyblood.blog/

Quotes:
35:11 Jeff: “So, so I think as, as useful and as essential as the the doctors, our fellow patients, I think that yes, some ways provide the most, most useful resource and support.”

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The New Normal & Intimacy After Cancer - With Dr. Bullis by SurvivingBreastCancer.org

Summary: In this episode, Laura and the surviving breast cancer team talk to Dr. Bullis about how to psychologically deal with a breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and the uncertainty of recurrence after treatment. Dr. Bullis discusses how to assess how much information should be given to patients and when to begin discussing how to manage stress with patients. He also explains the difficulties in having sexual relationships after a breast cancer treatment, and how to overcome those difficulties.

Topics:
6:22 Dr. Bullis’ Introduction
9:18 Readjusting to cancer diagnosis and treatment
21:46 Common feelings after treatment
30:27 When to discuss prophylactic stress management with patients
52:38 What to say to a cancer survivor or someone diagnosed with cancer
1:03:05 Having control and fear of recurrence
1:17:44 How much information should be given to patients
1:21:57 Sexual relationships during and after a breast cancer treatment and diagnosis
1:38:01 Dr. Bullis’ unique method of analysis
1:49:12 Breakdowns and rebounds

Resources:
Store My Tumor https://storemytumor.com/

Quotes:
55:34 Dr. Bullis: “And I think in survivorship, what you're really trying to do is shift the narrative from this is about my cancer to this is about my coping.”

Socials:
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Triple Negative Breast Cancer: Interview with Chien-Chi Huang, Founder of Asian Women for Health by SurvivingBreastCancer.org.

Summary: In this episode, Laura and the surviving breast cancer team discuss the prevalence of breast cancer in Asian women with Chien-Chi Huang, a triple-negative breast cancer survivor herself. Huang is the founder of Asian Women for Health, a non-profit organization committed to providing Asian Women with community and resources during and after their cancer diagnosis. Laura and Chien-Chi Huang discuss many topics including mental health, a triple-negative breast cancer diagnosis, and how to stay positive during hard times.

Topics:
2:33 Chien-Chi’s diagnosis
8:49 Triple-negative breast cancer
12:29 Mental health during and after breast cancer treatment
20:23 More information about Asian Women for Health
32:01 How food impacts cancer and important affirmations
39:21 Asian Women for Health’s yearly celebration event
41:13 The legacy you leave with your kids
44:15 Breast reconstruction

Resources:
Store My Tumor https://storemytumor.com/
Asian Women for Health website: https://www.asianwomenforhealth.org/
Asian Women for Health email: info@asianwomenforhealth.org
Asian Women for Health Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/asianwomenforhealth

Quotes:
8:08 Chien-Chi: “Yeah, I think that we definitely need a reminder, you know, that we need to live in the moment. But, you know, from time to time still, like, you know, sometimes I have pins, you know, in my hip or, you know, somewhere or I have headache, they will be like, that little, little voice in the back of your head. Could it be something, you know, so, yeah, it's always there. But I think that we just have to, you know, remind ourselves, you know, to be in the moment and then if you feel like something is, you know, suspicious, you know, definitely talk to your doctor and get it checked. Yeah. And definitely advocate for yourself.”

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Why I Stopped Taking Tamoxifen and Go all Natural | With Lauren Neuburger by SurvivingBreastCancer.org

Summary: In this episode, Laura discusses how to take a holistic approach and go natural after cancer treatment with Lauren Neuburger. Neuburger explains how to balance your hormones naturally in order to treat some of the long term effects of breast cancer treatment. Some ways include drinking sage tea or going in for acupuncture treatments.

Topics:
2:44 Introduction
12:36 Transition to health and nutrition
24:49 Oncologists’ response to deciding not to take tamoxifen
27:06 Choice to not go in for mammograms
34:46 Being aggressive or not being aggressive during treatment
38:47 Being in harmony: sage tea and hot flashes
52:40 How food affects your cognitive ability

Resources:
Store My Tumor https://storemytumor.com/
Lauren’s Instagram: @nutritious_delicious_life
Lauren’s email: lauren@nutritiousdeliciouslife.com
Lauren’s Facebook page: nutritious delicious life

Quotes:
40:58 Lauren: “Your hormones aren't the enemy. They don't cause cancer, hormonal imbalances to the body is a beautiful self-healing resilient ecosystem. And when everything's fine, it's fine. The body has so many like, you know, backup systems like self-healing mechanisms, repair mechanisms, detoxification, like systems, you know, the body wants you to be healthy, happy, healthy, and thrive. The problem is that the way most of us have lived, and just make being exposed to things and also just our thoughts, our thoughts are really powerful, and they change the physiology of ourselves, you know, these, these, these detox pathways, these elimination pathways, like they just get, you know, blocked up and you know, imbalances occur.”

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I'm a Triathlete I think It's a Stress Fracture; No, It's Stage IV Breast Cancer: Interview with Deb Williams by SurvivingBreastCancer.org

Relay for Life: Cancer Conversations by SurvivingBreastCancer.org

Summary: In this episode, Laura and the surviving breast cancer team speak to breast cancer survivors and caregivers at the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life fundraising event in Portland, Oregon. Individuals discuss their cancer diagnosis, their hardships, how they discussed their diagnosis with their family members, and how to stay positive during cancer treatment.

Topics:
1:58 Cassie Martin
3:17 Donna Burnett
6:09 Lance Burnett
7:12 Alicia Duncan
8:34 Hayley
9:01 Maddie
14:53 Helen Tremblay
32:31 Sherry Wilson

Resources:
Store My Tumor https://storemytumor.com/

Quotes:
30:33: There's always that fear of recurrence. But it's not gonna, it's not gonna hold me down. It held me down for a little bit. And then, you know, I kind of drew inward to myself protecting and trying to heal and recover and I feel like I'm still recovering. But I have a village that helps me and that's what matters. That's what it takes is a village. You know, they take a village to raise a child it takes a village to support a cancer survivor.

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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/SURVIVINGBREASTCANCER
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/Survivingbreastcancerorg
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/BreastCancerConversations/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SBC_org
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/survivingbreastcancerorg/

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Attend an event https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

What is Triple Negative Breast Cancer? TNBC Thriver Kelly Thomas by SurvivingBreastCancer.org

Summary: In this episode, Laura discusses stage 3C triple-negative breast cancer with Kelly Thomas, another breast cancer survivor. Laura and Kelly talk about difficult topics such as the drugs they were prescribed during and after their treatment, lymphedema, and making sure you have a great medical team to take care of you.

Topics:
2:09 Introductions
9:35 Experiences with various drugs to treat breast cancer
24:30 Stage 3C triple-negative breast cancer
26:36 Lymphedema
35:45 Kelly’s breast cancer diagnosis

Resources:
Store My Tumor https://storemytumor.com/

Quotes:
40:30 Kelly: Most people know that I named my tumor, my largest tumor. His name is Larry. He is the star of the show, and he needs to be, honestly, he needs a name. And my mother would be like, Larry doesn't like getting his picture taken. So that was like, the big joke is whenever like, I would get like a wand on him or I would get some kind of a scan. He would hurt so badly.

Socials:
Say Hi on Social:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/SURVIVINGBREASTCANCER
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/Survivingbreastcancerorg
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/BreastCancerConversations/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SBC_org
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/survivingbreastcancerorg/

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Subscribe to our newsletter https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/subscribe-1
Donate to our cause https://tinyurl.com/yc9cgt4e
Attend an event https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

I Want My Life Back: Coffee Chat with Jill and Mandy by SurvivingBreastCancer.org

Summary: Laura discusses the challenges during and after a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment with Jill and Mandy, two breast cancer survivors. They talk about hard topics such as nutrition, losing weight, and explaining a cancer diagnosis to your children.

Topics:
1:42 Breast cancer diagnosis
11:55 Nutrition and losing weight
26:51 Discussing a cancer diagnosis with your children

Resources:
Store My Tumor https://storemytumor.com/

Quotes:
25:23 Mandy: Yeah, like I have to feel good right now as me. Yes. I can't think about when I was 50 pounds later. I have to feel good right now.

Socials:
Say Hi on Social:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/SURVIVINGBREASTCANCER
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/Survivingbreastcancerorg
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/BreastCancerConversations/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SBC_org
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/survivingbreastcancerorg/

_________________________

Subscribe to our newsletter https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/subscribe-1
Donate to our cause https://tinyurl.com/yc9cgt4e
Attend an event https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

The Art of Healing with Dr. Carole Weaver by SurvivingBreastCancer.org

On Empathy & to Withhold Judgement, with Kristie Konsoer by SurvivingBreastCancer.org

Diagnosed at 27, BRCA+ : An Interview with Krystle Hensley. by SurvivingBreastCancer.org

Stage V Breast Cancer. Living on My Own Terms with Kristie Konsoer by SurvivingBreastCancer.org

Compassionate Boundaries w/ Lifestyle Medicine, Reiki Practitioner & Culinary Coach Janine Gilarde. by SurvivingBreastCancer.org

Doing Your Due Diligence; A Roadmap to Breast Cancer Screenings with Dr. Phillips, MD. by SurvivingBreastCancer.org

What are Coffee Enemas? by SurvivingBreastCancer.org

MashUp - This is breast cancer. by SurvivingBreastCancer.org

Dr. Max Gerson Therapy Part I by SurvivingBreastCancer.org

Positive Affirmations by SurvivingBreastCancer.org

Leona's Cancer Adventures: Diagnosed at 38 by SurvivingBreastCancer.org

The Power of Positive Thinking by SurvivingBreastCancer.org

The Boob Ambassador: Lymphedema, the ATM Gene & Humor by SurvivingBreastCancer.org

Abigail: Stage IV, the stats, activism, & a caring family. by SurvivingBreastCancer.org

Ginger the Movie by SurvivingBreastCancer.org

Laila's Story: Science Researcher, Blogger, Thriver by SurvivingBreastCancer.org

Learn about others who have been diagnosed with breast cancer the how Survivors Remorse is real.

Interview: Trailblazing Radiologist, Dr. Paula Gordon Provides Words of Wisdom, Advocacy, & Science by SurvivingBreastCancer.org

From that initial phone call when you hear the words "you have cancer" to liberating yourself from a disease, this is Tammy's story with breast cancer.

2unstoppable (Part II) your online exercise accountability buddy by SurvivingBreastCancer.org

2unstoppable (Part I): Michelle's story with TNBC by SurvivingBreastCancer.org

Breast Cancer is not something you should experience alone. Learn about the resources Survivingbreastcancer.org provides and how you can become part of our vibrant community!

Christmas Poem to you from Survivingbreastcancer.org by SurvivingBreastCancer.org

Caregiving by SurvivingBreastCancer.org

In this episode we discuss the trial and error process of being on hormonal therapy.

Will you need chemo? Results from TAILORx study. by SurvivingBreastCancer.org

Breast Cancer and Exercise: an Interview with Dr. Mhairi Morris by SurvivingBreastCancer.org

I am so thrilled and humbled to be able to share Jill's story of determination and acceptance. Get ready to understand and resonate with a breast cancer diagnosis and leave feeling inspired and empowered!

Follow us on this inspiring narrative of a trip out west. Fighting a breast cancer diagnosis, we have learned that there is no better medicine than allowing Mother Nature to heal us. Hear what this once in a lifetime vacation taught us about living in the moment. Get ready to be inspired!!!!

In this episode, you will be taken on Laura's breast cancer journey and the evolution of how chemotherapy, surgery, radiation, and hormonal therapies are saving her life and empowering her to help others who are transitioning through the various stages of a cancer diagnosis and beyond. This is not just survivorship, this is thrivership.