Dear Cancer, I'm Beautiful (Melissa Berry)

Shopping for a wig for the very first time when you're about to lose your hair to chemo can be a very daunting task. Have no fear, Jess the @hairlossgirlboss is here! She's a true expert when it comes to finding the perfect wig and offers up some really great tips about where to find the best ones, how to care for and style them, insurance coverage options and so much more. I promise you'll be so excited to shop for yours after listening to this episode!

Introducing my new friend, Claire L Paxman, who serves as the Brand Ambassador & Director of Global Training for Paxman Scalp Cooling. Listen to the amazing story about her mother’s chemotherapy-induced hair loss andhow it paved her path to her current position at Paxman Scalp Cooling. Claire is truly on a mission to help us preserve our hair and tells us everything we ever wanted to know about cold capping. What it is, how it works, if you’re a good candidate for it and so much more. Do not miss this episode!

On National Clinical Trials Day, we're joined by my dear friend Ricki Fairley. She’s the founder of Touch, The Black Breast Cancer Alliance, and a 13-year triple-negative breast cancer survivor. 

Ricki shares her journey, highlighting disparities faced by Black women in breast cancer care. We discuss the vital need for inclusivity in clinical trials, stressing their importance for everyone.

If you or someone you love is navigating metastatic breast cancer, this episode of Your Voice. Your Health is a must-listen. Abigail Johnston, a metastatic breast cancer advocate and legal expert, shares powerful strategies to overcome the life-threatening delays caused by step therapy policies.

Known as "fail first," step therapy can block access to critical care for stage 4 patients—when every minute counts. Abigail offers actionable advice to help patients break through these barriers, which can lead to financial strain, unnecessary side effects, and delays that jeopardize both quality of life and survival.

Special thanks to Amgen for making this episode possible!

I'm so glad that I met Teeru Bihani, founder of Bihani Jewelry. She's literally a cancer researcher by day, and a jewelry designer by night who creates beautiful designs while giving back to the cancer community. Each month, Teeru donates a portion of Bihani Jewelry sales to an organization that provides direct support to patients, survivors, thrivers, and previvors. Check this episode out, it's the perfect blend of cancer and fashion! Click here to shop this very unique jewelry collection.

Do you love your long hair and can't imagine losing it to chemo? You won't want to miss this episode with my new friend Caileigh Scott. She went the cold capping route and shared all of the pros and cons. The emotional and physical aspects of hair loss. The best part? She's totally rocking and embracing her fabulous short hair, tune in to hear the whole convo and learn how you can do the same!

Host Melissa Berry gets migraines! Not fun! So it was time to chat with someone who knows a thing or two about these debilitating headaches. Introducing Joe Coe, Director of Education, Digital Strategy and Co-President of the Global Healthy Living Foundation and host of the, "Talking Head Pain" podcast. The two spoke in great detail about the different types of medications available, prevention and how to advocate for yourself if you suffer from migraines. Breast cancer treatment is tough enough, but if you get a migraine on top of it all it can be incredibly overwhelming so tune in to learn more!

To know Lauren is to love Lauren! I had so much fun recording this episode with my new friend Lauren Candies Tarpley, author of the Type A Guide To Cancer series. Her latest guide is about to hit and focuses on hair loss. Tune in to hear her story, her "why" behind her popular guidebook series, and our deep-dive conversation about hair loss and how to embrace this difficult part of cancer treatment.

Never had a DEXA scan? That’s ok! It’s never too late to learn about the importance of bone health, especially if you’re a breast cancer survivor, or are currently in treatment. Join Melissa in Part 1 of this special mini-series as she interviews breast cancer thriver and physician Dr. Alexea. Thank you Dr. Alexea for stepping forward and welcoming us to join you on her very own bone health journey! Learn why Dr. Alexea hasn’t had her DEXA scan yet, her emotions surrounding the test and more!

In this episode, I sit down with photographer Charise Isis, who helps breast cancer survivors rediscover their inner goddess through powerful imagery. Her work captures strength, beauty, and resilience post-surgery, guiding women to embrace their bodies with confidence. We explore the healing power of photography, how it transforms self-perception, and how you can book your own empowering photo experience. Tune in for a conversation about self-love, confidence, and redefining beauty.

Melissa has a very informative yet real conversation with breast cancer and bone health prevention advocate, Karen Sock. Karen shares her breast cancer story and how it led to her being super-proactive about her bone health with a focus on preventative measures. Karen is a shining example of taking bone health into your own hands, knocking down financial barriers to treatment, and living your best life despite the challenges that breast cancer brings!

This amazing national non-profit organization offers free professional counseling support groups and educational workshops pertaining to emotional and financial well being for anyone affected by cancer. Tune in to learn all about the incredible support that is available to all of us, and just a phone call away! The CancerCare Hopeline is 800-813-HOPE, and there’s even a special hotline for my triple negative breast cancer thrivers out there. Just call 877-880-8622 if you or someone you know needs support.

If you don't know her already, please meet my dear friend Jen Rozenbaum. A boudoir photographer, breast cancer survivor and author who has helped so many of us feel connected to ourselves after breast cancer treatment. We took a deep dive into dating and divorce after breast cancer and Jen offered some really great tips so do not miss this episode!

In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Robyn Roth, also known as "The Boobie Docs," a breast radiologist specializing in breast health and early detection. We dive into the essentials of mammograms, including when to start screenings, navigating dense breast tissue, and the importance of risk assessments for high-risk individuals. From understanding your personal risk to exploring the latest advancements in technology, Dr. Roth provides invaluable insights to help you take charge of your breast health with confidence. Tune in for expert advice from one of the leading voices in breast health!

Meet my new friend Ali, the founder of Lost and Found Tattoo in Cranford, NJ. In this episode of "Dear Cancer, I'm Beautiful,” we’re going to delve into Ali's journey as a tattoo artist specializing in both illustrative designs as well as nipple and areola tattooing for breast cancer survivors.

Join us as we uncover Ali's passion for empowering women through her art and gain valuable insights into finding inspiration for meaningful tattoo designs.

Whether you're considering a nipple tattoo or seeking a meaningful post-mastectomy design, Ali's expertise and compassion shine through, making this episode a must-listen for anyone who’s considering either option.

Welcome to another episode of the "Your. Voice. Your Health." podcast series, where we amplify the voices of experts and advocates in the realm of step therapy and utilization management. In this episode, we delve into the complexities of patient advocacy and learn about precision medicine.

Our guest, Daneen Sekoni, Vice President of Policy and Advocacy at Cancer Support Community, shares some invaluable insights about overcoming healthcare obstacles.

Don’t miss this thought-provoking discussion that promises to empower patients and caregivers alike in their healthcare journey!

Melissa sits down with former Inc. magazine journalist, breast cancer thriver, author and founder of the Anticancer Lifestyle to discuss the power of mindset, and the profound, beneficial impact that lifestyle has on your overall health. 

Melissa sits down with Patricia Fox and has a very candid conversation about the discovery of her breast cancer at the young age of 26, her breast cancer story and its impact on her significant career shift, how she became a Sephora ambassador and her favorite beauty tips for women of color.

Host Melissa Berry has a dynamic conversation with the amazing Rori Zura, Founder of Foobs & Fitness. Rori was determined to protect her body and skin from radiation, so she came up with a routine that prevents burns and keeps your energy levels up. Tune in to learn the step-by-step process, as well as learn all about Rori's amazing shift in her career path as a result of advocating for herself several times over!

Melissa joins trichologist Lisa Caddy of Philip Kingsley to discuss her path to becoming a hair and scalp expert, how to navigate hair loss as a result of chemotherapy, what to expect when your hair begins to grow back in, and how to care for your scalp and hair throughout the entire process. Several Philip Kingsley products are highlighted, and the offerings of the NYC based Philip Kingsley hair clinic are discussed. This is an essential for anyone who is about to begin chemotherapy treatment that will lead to hair loss!

In this episode, I’m joined by Tom Butina, a passionate advocate for the power of storytelling in the cancer community. Tom discusses his work with This Is Living with Cancer, a platform from Pfizer that focuses on sharing real stories from those living with cancer. We dive into the importance of storytelling in creating connection, spreading awareness, and offering support to those navigating life with cancer. Tom shares inspiring insights on how sharing personal experiences can help others feel seen, heard, and empowered throughout their experience.

A special thank you to Pfizer for making this episode possible.

In this special episode, host Melissa Berry is joined by Harjeet Kaur, a Stage 4 cancer survivor, patient advocate, speaker, influencer, and founder of Chai and Hope, a support community for South Asian cancer patients.

Harjeet is dedicated to breaking the stigma around cancer, fertility loss, and hair loss due to treatment—especially within the South Asian community. After her cancer diagnosis and stem cell transplant, Harjeet turned her pain into purpose by breaking down barriers within her own family. While she received love and support, the topic of cancer was never discussed. Harjeet found a way to open up that conversation with her own family and now helps others do the same.

We explore the emotional and familial challenges of fertility and hair loss—issues deeply significant in South Asian culture—and how Harjeet overcame these obstacles. She shares how founding Chai and Hope has created a supportive space for South Asian cancer patients.

This conversation is about breaking stigma, overcoming family barriers, and finding strength through shared stories.

Host Melissa Berry has a very in-depth and valuable conversation with Dr. Andrea Singer about bone health as it relates to breast cancer and menopause. Grab a pen because by listening to this episode, you'll learn practical ways to prevent bone loss, how to maintain strong bones even if you're post menopausal and undergoing breast cancer treatment, how to and so much more!

Host Melissa Berry has a high energy, insightful interview with Rev. Tammie Denyse, Founder of Carrie's TOUCH. In addition to breast cancer advocacy, Tammie is also very passionate about bone health. From secondary fracture prevention, osteoporosis risks for postmenopausal women, and moving the needle on racial disparity, Tammie shares a wealth of knowledge that she has gained through many years as a dedicated advocate. You won't want to miss this special episode which is part of the #itsallaboutthebreak bone health campaign. Thank you Amgen for making this episode possible!

Host Melissa Berry has a very candid conversation with her Dad, Steve Berry about her breast cancer diagnosis, treatment and everything in between. Tune in to hear this heartfelt conversation filled with laughter and tears about how Steve supported and dealt with his daughters' triple-negative breast cancer diagnosis. He openly shares his thoughts and fears upon Melissa's diagnosis as well as some advice about how to support your loved one who is faced with cancer treatment. This episode is excellent for patients but also for caregivers, as Steve was not only there to support Melissa through her experience but also for her Mom Barbara who was diagnosed and treated for breast cancer several years prior.

I'm so excited to have my amazing friend Dr. Alexea back on the show! She's a board certified internist, breast cancer thriver and a true beacon of light in our community. This episode is part of my special series, “Your Voice, Your Health.” and is designed to teach us all about step therapy.  Dr. Alexea shares her honest and first hand experience with step therapy as both a physician and a breast cancer survivor, as well as tactical ways to overcome these very frustrating obstacles. Thank you to Amgen and Merck for making this episode possible!

I’m so thrilled to introduce you to my new friend, Katherine Mason. She is an incredible artist and founder of Painted With Lipstick. Tune into this episode to hear Katherine's story, as she was a tremendous source of love and support for a friend of hers who was undergoing breast cancer treatment. Together, they discovered the power of lipstick and how it played a special part in her friend’s healing process.

In this episode of the new series "Decoding Destiny: Navigating Breast Cancer with Genetic Insight," host Melissa Berry and her mother share a heartfelt conversation on the profound impact of genetic testing. From the decision to undergo BRCA testing to the discovery that both Melissa and her brother Matt carry the BRCA gene, they explore the power of knowledge, the strength of family, and the vital role of early intervention. This episode underscores the importance of proactive healthcare and family support in navigating life-changing decisions. Thank you to Merck and AstraZeneca for making this episode possible!

Welcome to another episode of “Your Voice. Your Health.” In this enlightening discussion, host Melissa Berry is joined by Dr. Rishi Garg, Assistant Professor of Neurology at Loyola University Medical Center and Medical Director of Financial Clearance.

Dr. Garg delves into the challenges of step therapy, including how automated decisions can impact cancer patients and why it's so critical to persist despite initial denials. Together, they explore common reasons for step therapy denials, strategies for successful appeals, and the vital role of healthcare providers in supporting patients.

Additionally, Dr. Garg will share inspiring success stories and discuss ongoing legislative efforts to reform step therapy practices. Tune in to learn how to advocate effectively for yourself and navigate these healthcare hurdles with confidence.

Thank you to Amgen for making this episode possible!

Welcome to another episode of "Dear Cancer, I'm Beautiful," part of the "Your Voice. Your Health." series. In this episode, I'm so honored to have Andrea Hans as my guest today - a breast cancer survivor, and passionate advocate for the Safe Step Act. Andrea will guide us through what this legislation entails, why it's crucial for cancer patients, and how its passage could significantly improve outcomes by addressing step therapy barriers. Join us for an insightful discussion that highlights the importance of advocacy in healthcare. Thank you to Amgen for making this series possible!

Host Melissa Berry has a reunion with Claire Gill, CEO of the Bone Health & Osteoporosis Foundation. This is a dynamic yet very informative follow up to the last conversation that they had about the impact that cancer can have on bone health....and what you can do to prevent bone loss and fracture with a focus on drug prevention. Don't miss this one!

Melissa takes a deep dive into the world of breast cancer myths with the amazing Dr. Eleonora Teplinsky. Should you avoid eating soy? Is it ok to continue exercising during chemo? What are the pros and cons of cold capping? Can you still get your nails done during treatment?  Tune in to hear the answers to all of these questions and many more!

Before you even think about hitting "play" on this episode, you've got to take a look at Dr. Bridget's Instagram account. It's the perfect blend of breast cancer advocacy and dentistry with a very serious dose of fashion. Host Melissa Berry has a fun yet information conversation with Dr. Bridget, covering everything from her breast cancer experience, her passion for fashion, and weighs in on the do's and don'ts when it comes to breast cancer treatment and dental hygiene, and the exciting new launch of her very own NYC based practice, Maison BE Dental. Tune in and grab a pen, lots of great advice about caring for your teeth throughout treatment!

Patient advocate Christy Greenleaf was diagnosed with osteoporosis at the age of 43 as a result of chemotherapy to treat her breast cancer. This powerful conversation is a must listen for anyone about to begin cancer treatment. What Christy wishes she knew about protecting her bones then, and the questions that you should be asking your oncologist about your bone health before treatment even begins.

In this special episode, I sit down with Ricki Fairley of TOUCH, The Black Breast Cancer Alliance and Hayley Dinerman of the Triple Negative Breast Cancer Foundation to discuss the latest advancements in TNBC research, including key takeaways from SABCS 2024, new immunotherapy and targeted therapies, and the impact of the AACR research grant. We also explore efforts to address racial disparities, upcoming awareness initiatives, and how you can get involved. Don’t miss this insightful conversation about the future of TNBC treatment and advocacy.

Thank you to Merck, Daiichi-Sankyo, Gilead, Pfizer, and Lilly for making this episode possible!

You won’t want to miss this episode! Meet my new friend Irene Benson, the Chief Development Officer of the, “Know Your Lemons Foundation.” Irene is obsessed with saving lives from breast cancer through creative education that leads to early detection. She’s got an award-winning app, is responsible for self-breast exam educational campaign materials in 34 languages, and is the lead on a global educator program with over 800 educators teaching breast health in over 60 countries.  Tune in to learn her “why” behind her mission, how her app works and how you and your loved ones can master and understand the importance of the self-breast exam…and how easy and critical it is to work into your self-care routine!

Just in case you missed the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium adventures of Hayley Dinerman (Executive Director of The Triple Negative Breast Cancer Foundation), Ricki Fairley (Founder of TOUCH, The Black Breast Cancer Alliance) and host Melissa Berry, here's your chance to get the key takeaways and latest developments that we learned at this very important annual breast cancer conference. Thank you to our partners Gilead, Merck and Genentech for helping us to make this program possible!

Melissa sits down with breast cancer thriver and Chest Confessions author Christina Wilson who very candidly shares her story about being misdiagnosed and treated, as well as all of the sexual health, body image and relationship issues that came along with it. If you're looking for some solid guidance about being your own advocate with a side of sex ed for cancer thrivers, then this episode's for you!

Not only is model Alissa Jo Caputo beautiful on the outside, but she's also a true beauty on the inside. She shares her entire journey with us in the hopes of informing and inspiring the newly diagnosed, beginning with her breast cancer diagnosis at the age of 31, her decision to conserve her fertility, how she navigated her reconstruction choices, and everything in between. This episode is part of a special series called, "Breast Reconstruction: Real Life Conversations,” and is brought to you by Allergan Aesthetics.

Melissa sits down with breast cancer thriver boudoir photographer and author Jen Rozenbaum for a not-to-miss conversation about the power of phototherapy, and how to be the best version of yourself after your breast cancer diagnosis and initial treatment.

Be the first to hear this one-of-a-kind podcast launching Wednesday, April 4th. Subscribe today!

Hot flashes. Mood swings. Menopause is a hot topic these days, and host Melissa Berry interviews Tamsen Fadal who shares her menopause journey and her "why" behind her fierce advocacy and dedication to demystifying this challenging chapter in women's lives. From hot flashes to mood swings and everything in between, Tamsen is your menopause coach. If you're approaching menopause or are in the thick of it, you won't want to miss this episode!

Join me and Dr. David Charles, Chief Medical Officer of the Alliance for Patient Access and a distinguished neurologist, for a dynamic discussion. In this episode, Dr. Charles sheds light on step therapy, fail-first protocols, and care pathways, revealing their impact on patient care. Explore how the Alliance champions patient education and advocates for healthcare policy improvements. Tune in to delve into the intersection of patient advocacy and healthcare reform with Dr. Charles and the Alliance. Thank you to Amgen, Merck and Daiichi Sankyo for making this episode possible!

If you’re struggling with getting your sexy back, tune into this very candid and empowering conversation with “Sexpert” Dr. Juliana Hauser. She’s got a PhD in Counseling Education, teaches other graduate therapists and has a background in teaching gender studies. She’s also a licensed marriage and family therapist, professional counselor and mama! We chat about where to even start when it comes to sex and intimacy, how to engage your medical team about your sexual challenges, and the benefits of sensuality and sexuality. Thank you FemmePharma for making this episode possible!

Can I get a woot woot for EMME?! Not only is Emme a dear friend of mine, but she’s the world’s first curvy supermodel and has dedicated her life to body image. In this truly special episode, she shares her own cancer story and challenges, how to love your body no matter what you’re going through, and some really great ways to navigate the tough emotions that come along with losing your breasts.

In this deeply moving episode of "Dear Cancer, I'm Beautiful," I sit down with Dr. Liz O'Riordan, a former breast surgeon who has faced breast cancer three times and emerged as a powerful voice in the community. Dr. O'Riordan shares her personal battle with depression during her cancer treatment, a struggle that many patients face but few openly discuss.

Learn how Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) became a beacon of hope in her darkest hours. Dr. O'Riordan explains how CBT provided her with the tools to manage her fears, process her emotions, and ultimately reclaim her life. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of mental health support for those battling cancer.

This episode sheds light on the mental health challenges of breast cancer and offers valuable insights for those facing similar struggles.

I’m so excited to have my dear friend Dr. Jonathan Bank back on the show! He’s a board-certified plastic surgeon and an internationally known expert in microsurgery. A particular area of specialty is the sensory restoration of the reconstructed breast, in which Dr. Bank has one of the longest-standing experiences in America. In this episode, we talk about a surgical technique that he's very passionate about called Resensation. Dr. Bank explains how it works and his “why” behind his interest in helping us to regain sensation in our reconstructed breasts. We also chat about a very exciting project that he’s been working on called ReBLOSSOM. Don’t miss this one!

Tune in for a very empowering conversation about mastectomy tattoos with Karen Malkin- Lazarovitz, Founder of EMPOWERink! This brand new non-profit organization connects breast cancer survivors, previvors and thrivers with tattoo artists who provide complimentary tattoos. Karen shares her incredible story, her “why” behind EMPOWERink, and how these gorgeous tattoos can help you feel empowered and define your beauty on your terms. If you’re even thinking about a mastectomy tattoo, you’re going to want to listen to this episode from beginning to end!

Host Melissa Berry met journalist Anne D'Innocenzio long before they were both diagnosed with and treated for triple negative breast cancer. Melissa was a fashion publicist and she'd pitch Anne when she wrote for Women's Wear Daily as well as the Associated Press. The two were reunited when amutual friend told Melissa that she knew someone who wrote for the AP and had TNBC...the rest is history! Today, Anne is a TNBC thriver, journalist and now starring in her very first solo show, "The Red Light Zones." This special performance took place in October and a portion of the proceeds were donated to the Triple Negative Breast Cancer Foundation. Tune in to hear Anne's whole story and the "why" behind her passion for stand-up, storytelling and living her life to its fullest, post-diagnosis.

I love when beautiful things are born at the intersection of fashion and cancer, and this episode is such a great example of that! Meet Jenn Greenhut, stage IV triple-negative breast cancer thriver turned handbag designer. She founded Zero Negative, a beautiful accessories collection in 2017 which has since raised thousands of dollars for UCLA’s Jonsson Cancer Center Foundation. Learn more about her story by checking out this very special episode!

You’re going to love meeting my friend Melissa Papock, Founder & CEO of Cabana Life.  We met years ago when I was a publicist and she was my client, talk about full circle! At age 26, Melissa was diagnosed with melanoma during a routine skin check. Melissa's problem became her purpose and she started Cabana Life with the dream of using her personal story and stylish clothing to help educate and protect as many people as possible. Hear Melissa’s story, learn why it’s so important to protect our skin from the sun’s harmful rays especially when undergoing cancer treatment, and how to do it in style!

Join me and my incredible friend, celebrity hairstylist Chelsey, for an intimate conversation about navigating life with metastatic breast cancer. Discover her powerful journey of resilience, creativity, and finding purpose beyond the salon chair. This episode offers inspiring insights into living life to the fullest, despite the challenges we face. Tune in for a heartfelt exploration of courage, community, and embracing every moment.

Melissa joins breast cancer surgeon Dr. Monique Gary to discuss the power of touch, and the positive impact that it has on breast cancer patients. This lighthearted yet informative conversation includes Dr. Gary's incredible career path to becoming a breast cancer surgeon, why she's so passionate about the power of touch, how to achieve resilience and balance in the midst of treatment, the importance of the mind and body connection, coping skills for “scan-xiety” and much more!

Put your seatbelts on for this one. A Yale graduate, family nurse practitioner, breast cancer thriver AND the President of The Pink Agenda, Nicole's passion for philanthropy is contagious, so listen here to learn more! The Pink Agenda is a nonprofit organization committed to raising money for breast cancer research and care, as well as awareness of the disease among young professionals.

I’m thrilled to introduce Dr. Elizabeth Comen, a leading breast oncologist and USA Today bestselling author of “All In Her Head.” Dr. Comen is passionate about empowering patients to advocate for themselves throughout their breast cancer journey.

In this episode, we discuss the complexities of breast cancer care, and how to talk to your doctor during breast cancer treatment to get the care you need and deserve. Join us as Dr. Comen shares valuable insights to help you navigate your experience and ensure the best possible outcomes for your health.

Host Melissa Berry has learned so much about bone health as a result of her, "Beautiful To The Bone" podcast series, as well as a special episode produced for the "It's All About The Break" campaign. Tune in to hear Melissa share her favorite "snippets" from some of the past episodes and in just under an hour you'll have enough information to advocate for YOUR bone health and get a DXA scan!

Introducing my wonderful friend and fellow TNBC sister, Tiffany Clifton-Reed! Tiffany is not only a courageous breast cancer thriver and advocate, but also brings extensive experience as an authorization coordinator. I invited Tiffany to be a guest on this episode of "Your Voice. Your Health." to discuss step therapy through the lense of her invaluable perspective. With her dual background as a breast cancer survivor and a professional in the prior authorization field, Tiffany shares her insights and offers practical tips on navigating step therapy challenges. Thank you to Amgen and Merck for making this episode possible!

It's March and it's Triple Negative Breast Cancer Awareness Month! If you don't know her already, meet my dear friend and colleague Hayley Dinerman, Executive Director of the Triple Negative Breast Cancer Foundation. Learn how the Foundation got started, what TNBC Day is all about, and how you can help support this unique organization that has truly become a home for triple negative breast cancer patients, thrivers and their caretakers alike! To learn more or to make a donation to this worthy cause, go to tnbcfoundation.org.  

Meet one of my dearest friends, Katrina M. Johnson! Katrina is the US Director of Advocacy & Professional Relations for Pfizer Oncology as well as a three-time breast and two-time melanoma cancer survivor. Katrina and I met through our advocacy work but I feel like I’ve known Katrina FOREVER and I’m sure you will too!  Katrina is also a triple negative breast cancer survivor and the Mom of 2 amazing young adults. We talk about everything. Recently we've had some very real and emotional conversations about relationships. Dating. Divorce. Working out. Eating healthy. We realized that all of these things all boil down to one thing - loving and caring for yourself. Today we’re going to talk about REALLY loving yourself after a breast cancer diagnosis. What better day to talk about loving ourselves than on Valentine’s Day?!

In this episode, I’m thrilled to welcome Dr. Tiffany Troso, a medical oncologist with over 25 years of experience in treating breast and gynecological cancers. We’ll unpack some of the most important updates from this year’s San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium (SABCS) in a way that’s clear and easy to follow.

We’ll cover topics like the latest on SERDS and how they’re changing treatment options, the practice-changing findings from the PATINA trial, and exciting progress on a TNBC vaccine. Dr. Troso also sheds light on the growing movement toward treatment de-escalation and what it means for creating more personalized approaches to care.

This episode is packed with valuable information to help patients and advocates feel informed and prepared to navigate their health journey.

A special thank you to our “Your Guide to SABCS sponsors” Lilly, Gilead, Merck, Daiichi-Sankyo and Pfizer for making this episode possible.

Cheryl joins Melissa once again to chat about all of the great work that American Bone Health has done to keep the breast cancer community informed. Learn how to advocate for your bone health, the importance of the DXA scan and so much more!

Just when we thought we knew everything there was about BRCA testing…then along came JScreen! Host Melissa Berry sits down with Emily Goldberg, Genetic Counselor for JScreen for an insightful conversation about who should get genetic testing, next steps if you test positive for the BRCA gene, if you should test for other genes even after you’re treated for breast cancer and more! Tune into this insightful episode, and also head on over to JScreen.org if you or someone you love is interested in genetic testing.

Introducing my dear friend and TNBC sister, Lorelei Colbert. We met through our advocacy work with the Triple Negative Breast Cancer Foundation and her beautiful glow and energy are absolutely infectious!

At the young age of 28, Lorelei was diagnosed with TNBC, a direct result of going for a very routine doctor visit for a physical so she and her husband could move abroad on military orders. Her inquiry about birth control led to a breast exam that would change her entire life.

Join us as we explore Lorelei's narrative, a powerful testament to self-advocacy, overcoming a TNBC diagnosis, confronting fertility obstacles, and ultimately embracing motherhood!

In this episode of Dear Cancer, I’m Beautiful, we continue with a special series close to my heart: Decoding Destiny: Navigating Breast Cancer with Genetic Insight. I’m thrilled to be joined by Sue Friedman, Founder and Executive Director of FORCE (Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered).

Sue’s journey with hereditary breast cancer, combined with her tireless advocacy, has made her a powerful voice in the world of hereditary cancer support. In this episode, we explore her personal story, the incredible work she's doing through FORCE, and the essential role advocacy plays in navigating the complexities of hereditary cancer.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation about empowerment, support, and the importance of understanding your genetic risks.

Thank you to AstraZeneca and Merck for making this episode possible!

Melissa has a very candid and informative conversation with Dr. Sommer, Professor of SIU Medicine Institute of Plastic Surgery and breast cancer advocate (and superstar winemaker) Susan Danenberger.  Susan was very unhappy with her initial breast reconstruction, and openly shares her struggle as well as the path that led her to Dr. Sommer and her successful revision. Learn about insurance coverage relative to breast reconstruction, what you should ask your plastic surgeon before heading into the OR, the importance of getting that second opinion and much more!

As part of my special podcast series, “Your Voice. Your Health.” focusing on step therapy, we're joined by Maxine Miller, a dedicated advocate and Coordinator of Policy & Advocacy at Cancer Support Community. 

With a strong commitment to championing equity and access in healthcare, economics, and society, Maxine shares some advocacy efforts as well as groundbreaking research shedding light on the detrimental effects of step therapy protocols on patient health and well-being. Thank you to my sponsors Amgen, Merck and Daiichi-Sankyo for making this episode possible!

Join host Melissa Berry and she sits down with one of her dear friends Kristen Carbone, breast cancer previvor and founder of Brilliantly. Learn all about Kristen's amazing, "Brilliantly Warm" invention, how she recently scored coverage about her brand in Goop, and the why behind her mission.

You’re going to love my amazing new friend Stephanie Germino, a passionate advocate for body positivity and the driving force behind the 'Boobless Babe' movement. At 27, Stephanie discovered she was BRCA positive, and at 28, she chose a bilateral prophylactic mastectomy with an aesthetic flat closure. This decision transformed her confidence and redefined her perspective on beauty. Join us for a powerful conversation about Stephanie's journey of empowerment and resilience, and how she now helps others embrace their bodies post-mastectomy. Discover how Stephanie feels more beautiful, sexier, and confident than ever before!

Join host Melissa Berry and breast cancer advocate Abby Match for an informative conversation about breast cancer, family history and genetics. Abby shares her insights and passion for knowing your family history, where to go for genetics testing and so much more!

The Life Saving Power of Self Breast Exams with Jessica Baladad, Founder of Feel For Your Life

In this episode, host Melissa Berry welcomes Jessica Baladad, a 6-year breast cancer survivor and passionate advocate for self-breast exams. After a practitioner dismissed a malignant lump as “normal,” Jessica discovered it herself during a routine self-exam—an act that may have saved her life.

She went on to create Feel For Your Life, an app designed by a breast cancer survivor to educate and empower women with tools for self-exams, tracking changes, and getting screened. 

Tune in for a powerful conversation on self-advocacy, early detection, and why knowing your body and always advocating for yourself can make all the difference.

Host Melissa Berry speaks with Dr. Edward Fox, an orthopedic surgeon specializing in musculoskeletal oncology surgery. He is a professor in the Department of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation, Chief of the Division of Orthopedic Oncology, and a professor in the Department of Medicine at the Penn State Cancer Institute and Penn State Health., to talk about the importance of having a bone health plan and advocating for yourself. Learn about overlapping fracture risk such as menopause and breast cancer, who can get a DXA scan and when the best point of entry is for screening, diagnosis and treatment. Dr. Fox works closely with American Bone Health, so be sure to use their fracture risk calculator right here. Discuss the results with your healthcare provider so you can develop your own bone health plan. Thank you Amgen for making this episode possible!

Join Melissa Berry and her special guest Ricki Fairley, Founder and CEO of TOUCH, The Black Breast Cancer Alliance. Ricki shares her Triple Negative Breast Cancer diagnosis, discusses the prevalence of Triple Negative Breast Cancer among Black women, talks about her career path from powerhouse marketing executive to Founder of TOUCH, and how she plans to eradicate Black breast cancer with her tireless patient advocacy efforts.

I’m so glad I met Dionne!  She’s an incredible celebrity lash expert, breast cancer thriver and founder of D’Lashes and has worked with major celebs including Victoria Beckham, Naomi Campbell, Renee Zellweger, Lindsay Lohan and Mary J. Blige. Otherwise known as “Hollywood’s Secret Beauty Weapon” and “The Pioneer of Lash Extensions,” Dionne shares her passion for helping breast cancer thrivers look and feel their best with her lash expertise along with some do’s and don'ts when it comes to applying strip lashes and lash extensions. Questions about lashes? This episode is for you!

You're going to love Rachelle aka @theoriginalrachelle! I instantly connected with this fellow fashionista. We talked about her passion for all things fashion and beauty, and her dedication to bringing awareness and support to the young breast cancer community is truly inspiring. Tune in for the full scoop!

Join us for the latest installment of the, "Your Voice. Your Health." series as we delve into crucial insights with Courtney Savage, the visionary behind Savage Health Policy. In this episode, Courtney sheds light on step therapy, navigates the appeals process, and teaches us why it’s so important to really understand your health insurance policy. Tune in to discover the power of partnering with your doctor to overcome step therapy barriers!

Join host Melissa Berry for a very informative conversation about diep flap surgery with Dr. Neumeister, Chairman of the Department of Surgery at SIU Medicine and Chief for the Institute for Plastic Surgery. Learn everything you ever wanted to know about diep flap surgery, including the history behind it, what makes it a good option, who the best candidates are, the recovery time, and much more!

Melissa has a really fun yet insightful chat with TNBC Thriver founder Kelly Thomas and breast cancer advocate Vaishalee Howey. These two beauties met on their triple negative breast cancer paths, and are a beautiful example of finding connection and community after a breast cancer diagnosis. They talk about the importance of seeking sisterhood when you're first diagnosed and share their experience modeling the newly launched AnaOno x Lori Goldstein collection benefiting the Triple Negative Breast Cancer Foundation. Tune in for the full scoop!

Host Melissa Berry is joined by the amazing Kara Frazier, founder of Fighting Pretty. Kara was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer at the very young age of 26. Fighting Pretty is a non-profit organization that helps women feel strong and beautiful during and after cancer treatments. It works with hospitals, cancer clinics and support groups to provide pink boxing gloves, donated "clean" lipstick and inspirational coloring pages. Tune in to hear all about Kara's story and her amazing mission!

Introducing Kimmay! She’s an Undergarment Educator, Self-Love coach and Founder of Hurray Kimmay. Kimmay has been featured on major national morning shows including Rachael Ray and TODAY. She’s on a mission to help us all feel comfortable and confident in our bras. Hear how Kimmay became a bra expert, the do’s and don’t when it comes to finding the best bra for you regardless of your body type, and most importantly how to embrace and love your body throughout the process.

In this episode, I sat down with breast cancer advocate Rachel Marx—aka baesymmetrical—who proudly calls herself the Uniboob Unicorn. After choosing a unilateral mastectomy, Rachel has redefined beauty, confidence, and sexuality on her own terms.

We explore body acceptance, the healing power of personal photography, and her experience modeling for AnaOno, a lingerie brand designed for those affected by breast cancer. She also shares insights on dating, intimacy after surgery, and  The Rachel Bra, a game-changing piece named after her which celebrates unique silhouettes.

A powerful conversation about self-love, resilience, and embracing your body unapologetically.

In this episode of Dear Cancer, I’m Beautiful!, I’m joined by Erica Deligne, style expert, breast cancer survivor, and creator of the Flat, Fierce, and Feminine guide. After opting for aesthetic flat closure,Erica became a passionate advocate for helping women embrace their bodies with confidence and style without reconstruction.

Erica shares her personal breast cancer story, the decision to go flat, and the importance of being fully informed about all surgical options. She also offers fashion tips for those who have gone the flat aesthetic closure route, discusses the need for more clothing options, and highlights how style can be a beautiful form of empowerment and self-expression. 

We also talk about dating after going flat, how to build confidence in relationships, and the importance of advocacy for flat closure awareness.

Tune in for an empowering and inspiring conversation!

If you're a patient or caregiver you won't want to miss this crash course in getting organized and keeping your calm through a cancer diagnosis or whatever challenges life throws your way. Join host Melissa Berry and her amazing life and business coach Brooke Burns, Founder of Brooke Burns Coaching for some very practical organizational tips for getting through even your toughest days.

As a 24-year-old Miss America contestant, Allyn Rose made headlines across the globe with the controversial decision to undergo a preventative double mastectomy after losing her mother, grandmother and great aunt to breast cancer. Melissa sits down with Allyn to discuss her decision and her path to becoming founder of The Previvor.

Want to meet a fierce triple-negative breast cancer thriver turned fashion designer? Introducing Nahomi Enrico, Founder of Busca La Luz. Tune into this very special episode to hear Nahomi's story and how she launched her very own fashion brand which gives back $5 to the Triple Negative Breast Foundation for each and every item sold!

In this third episode of Empowered Intimacy: Getting Your Sexy Back After Breast Cancer, join Melissa and her dear friend and co-host Deltra as they explore the realities of dating after a breast cancer diagnosis. 

Building on their previous discussion about navigating intimacy in marriages, the duo reflects on their personal journeys through divorce and re-entering the dating scene. Melissa and Deltra share their experiences of meeting new people, highlighting both the uplifting moments and the challenges they faced along the way. They provide insightful tips on identifying red flags in potential partners and offer advice on what to seek in a supportive relationship.

Tune in for an empowering conversation to help you embrace the world of dating after a breast cancer diagnosis with confidence and clarity. Thank you to Daiichi-Sankyo and AstraZeneca for making this episode possible!

Welcome to another episode of, "Your Voice. Your Health," a special series dedicated to empowering patients and caregivers as they navigate the complexities of step therapy. Today we delve into the transformative world of personalized medicine and its potential to enhance your current treatment plans. 

Join us as we sit down with Cynthia A. Bens, Senior Vice President of Public Policy at the Personalized Medicine Coalition. Cynthia shares her invaluable insights on how personalized medicine is revolutionizing healthcare and offers practical advice on leveraging it for the best possible outcomes. Plus, learn about the groundbreaking policy work Cynthia and PMC are championing to support the adoption of personalized medicine.

Tune in and discover how personalized medicine can be the upgrade your healthcare journey needs!

I can't believe it's been 10 years since my triple negative breast cancer diagnosis. Join me as I reflect on my breast cancer experience, the ups and downs along the way and most importantly the lessons that I learned. I hope you enjoy this special episode!

In this episode of "Dear Cancer, I'm Beautiful,”  I have the pleasure of introducing you to Y, the compassionate force behind the Women's Hair Loss Project. Join us as Y shares her personal journey through hair loss, shedding light on all of the emotional complexities that come with it. 

With 17 years of dedication to empowering women, Y offers invaluable insights into reclaiming femininity and confidence despite the challenges of hair loss. 

From practical advice on wig shopping to profound reflections on self-acceptance, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone navigating similar experiences. Tune in as we celebrate beauty in and honor the resilience of the human spirit.

Melissa had so much fun on the Sipps With Survivors podcast that she decided to invite founders Vicki Campana and Randalynn Vasel to join her right on Dear, Cancer I'm Beautiful! These ovarian cancer survivors and breast cancer previvors share their stories and AND offer up tons of great advice about starting your own podcast.

Meet my friend Whitney O’Connor. She’s been working in the mental health community since 2012 and most of her time is spent managing and building her nonprofit business called, The Boobie Queen Company. Whitney founded this organization after being diagnosed at 30 years old and 6 weeks after getting married. She does this by donating Boobie Crowns and facilitating retreats for her Boobie Queens. Tune into this special episode to learn how Whitney uses her experience as a mental health therapist and her experience as a breast cancer survivor to help women celebrate themselves as they go through their own breast cancer journeys.

Host Melissa Berry sits down with the amazing Asha Miller, breast cancer and body love advocate. Asha takes us on an incredibly inspiring walk through her breast cancer experience. She candidly shares with us how it led to radical body love, and how to love your new “you” after breast cancer treatment and surgery!

Melissa and special guest Lolita Frazier have a raw, emotional intimate conversation about how to walk gracefully through life, no matter what trauma comes your way.  Lolita is the founder of Strut Talk Runway Therapy, runway expert, and confidence coach with over 20 years of experience helping models, producers, and fashion gurus "strut their stuff." Lolita shares the basic principles of confidence coaching, the definition of strut therapy, how she became the runway coach for post-mastectomy brand AnaOno Intimates, and much more!

Join Melissa Berry and her special guests Sarah Kelly and Leah Robert, the sassy sisters and founders behind the Maine based clean beauty brand SaltyGirl Beauty. Oncology nurse (Leah) and Triple Negative breast cancer thriver (Sarah) share the story behind SaltyGirl beauty including the discovery of Sarah’s Stage 3 Triple Negative Breast Cancer diagnosis during her pregnancy, why they decided to create SaltyGirl Beauty, how they empower and inspire the breast cancer community, and how makeup can positively impact how you feel about yourself during cancer treatment and beyond into thrivership.

Need a crash course in bone health? Look no further. Your host Melissa Berry aka Cancer Fashionista shares the most important facts about bone health that she learned last year when interviewing top experts and patient advocates for her special series, "Beautiful To The Bone."

Host Melissa Berry sits down with top plastic surgeons and breast reconstruction experts Dr. Ron Israeli and Dr. Jonathan Bank. In an effort to shift the narrative surrounding breast reconstruction, the two doctors collaborated to create a new project called Restored. Restored is a book and art exhibit that tells the stories of twelve breast reconstruction patients from different walks of life. The project includes images, lifecasts, and words from each woman that convey the physical and emotional restoration that breast reconstruction can provide. 100% of the proceeds of the Restored book will be donated to the AiRS Foundation. A special thank you to our sponsor Allergan Aesthetics for making this special episode possible.

Join Melissa and her good friends Trish and Tiffany, founders of Hip Hop Happy Hour. Since the start of the pandemic, they've hosted this coveted virtual gathering every Friday night on Instagram Live. The weekly show supports and celebrates those in the cancer community and beyond, through their shared love of community, advocacy and hip hop. They discuss the debut of #ReclaimOctober, their plans for the upcoming year and so much more!