Breast Cancer Conversations (SurvivingBreastCancer.org)
Explorez tous les épisodes de Breast Cancer Conversations
| Date | Titre | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 27 Feb 2022 | 148. Finding Wisdom with Tailored Screenings | Dr. Barbara Parker & Heather Mann | 00:42:18 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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. | |||
| 06 Mar 2022 | 149. What to Say and Not Say to Your Children about Death and Grief | 00:19:25 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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! | |||
| 13 Mar 2022 | 150. Healing Off the Grid And Overcoming Adversity with Tara Coyote | 00:28:45 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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:
| |||
| 23 Mar 2022 | 152. Guided Meditation For Breast Cancer | Moving Through the Chakras (20 min) | 00:20:39 | |
| 30 Mar 2022 | 154. Meditation for Breast Cancer | Moving Through the Forest (20 minutes) | 00:25:08 | |
| 20 Mar 2022 | 151. Does Gender Influence How We Grieve? | 00:07:18 | |
| 27 Mar 2022 | 153. Grief Is Something No One Wants To Talk About, Yet It Effects Literally Everyone | 00:15:49 | |
| 03 Apr 2022 | 155. My Mom Has Breast Cancer | 00:21:50 | |
| 24 Apr 2022 | 157. Tales from the Radiology Tech | 00:40:23 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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. | |||
| 17 Apr 2022 | 156. TNBC & PALB2: A True Story from the UK | 00:24:43 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! Website and for the palb2 group (international) https://www.facebook.com/groups/113514819289505 | |||
| 30 Apr 2022 | 158. Hope: with Julia Maues and Christine Hodgdon | 00:13:39 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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! | |||
| 09 May 2022 | 159. GRASP Cancer with Christine Hodgon and Julia Maues | 00:30:56 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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. 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.
| |||
| 15 May 2022 | 160. Everything You Need To Know About Medicare with Viviana Artau | 00:38:36 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! Everything you need to know about Medicare. | |||
| 28 May 2022 | 161. Nutrigenomics and Estrogen Gene Testing with TJ Hills | 00:35:52 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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/ | |||
| 06 Jun 2022 | 162. What You Need To Know About Your Metabolic Health and Breast Cancer | 00:30:02 | |
| 12 Jun 2022 | 164. Two Breasties on Survivorship | 00:43:05 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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. | |||
| 19 Jun 2022 | 165. A Caregivers Guide to Cancer with Ammie Dover | 00:54:35 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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. | |||
| 10 Jul 2022 | 166. Radiation Therapy for Metastatic Breast Cancer (MBC) with Dr. Rachel Jimenez and Dr. Kim Corbin. | 00:57:20 | |
| 17 Jul 2022 | 167. Metabolic Health and Breast Cancer Brings Clinical Trials for TNBC and MBC Patients | 00:36:00 | |
| 26 Jul 2022 | 168. This Is My Metastatic Breast Cancer Story: 4 Women Living With Stage IV | 00:39:42 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! Today we meet the Survivingbreastcancer.org MBC Leadership Team. | |||
| 07 Aug 2022 | 169. My Black Experience with Stage II A Lobular Breast Cancer | 00:53:55 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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. | |||
| 21 Aug 2021 | 121. Sexual Health and Breast Cancer with Dr. Bober | 00:41:27 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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:
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 Recommendations/guidelines: NCCN https://www.nccn.org/guidelines/guidelines-detail ASCO https://www.asco.org/practice-patients/guidelines | |||
| 13 Aug 2022 | 170. Healing from TNBC and a BRCA2+ Diagnosis Through Art Therapy Featuring Stephanie McLeod-Estevez Art Therapy | 00:50:18 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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! | |||
| 22 Aug 2022 | 171. Sexual Health and Breast Cancer with Dr. Bober | 00:41:27 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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:
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 Recommendations/guidelines: NCCN https://www.nccn.org/guidelines/guidelines-detail ASCO https://www.asco.org/practice-patients/guidelines | |||
| 28 Aug 2022 | 172. Creative, Simple, and Powerful Ways To Leave Your Mark On The World. | 00:27:31 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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. | |||
| 25 Sep 2022 | 175. What is Cryrotherapy and How Does It Work? | With Dr. Soyano & the NatraCure Team | 00:44:26 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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
Resources Mentioned 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 | |||
| 11 Sep 2022 | 174. God Had Other Plans For Me | With 3x Male Breast Cancer Survivor, Vance Stacks | 00:48:32 | |
| 04 Sep 2022 | 173. Innovation and Technology Can Lead to Better Patient Outcomes with Maya Said, CEO and Founder Outcomes4Me | 00:37:12 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! People across the world are diagnosed with a life-changing illnesses every day. These sudden changes can leave patients lost and frustrated with how they should approach treatment options for themselves, especially in the fast-growing field of medicine and technology. During this episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, we speak with Maya Said, the founder and CEO of Outcomes4Me, an app and website that gives patients information about treatment options and provides access to educational resources leading to better patient outcomes. This episode touches on topics such as technology-based solutions, biotech innovations, clinical trials, and personalized navigation throughout the breast cancer journey. Just like technology and treatment options, Outcomes4Me continues to grow and expand, with over 70,000 breast cancer patients using their website and app. Patients today still struggle to have power and control over their treatment, but Outcomes4Me aims to give patients power by providing the tools to make their own decisions regarding their treatment. Welcome to the conversation! Topics Discussed
Resources Mentioned https://www.outcomes4me.com/ https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/ https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events Connect with us on Social
| |||
| 02 Oct 2022 | 176. Pelvic Floor Health with Physical Therapist Beth Hoag | 00:49:54 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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. 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 Resources Mentioned:
Connect with us on Social | |||
| 16 Oct 2022 | 177. Living with MBC and Experiencing the Realities of Progression with Amy Parliaman, Claudia Gonzalez, and Amanda Raffenaud | 00:23:40 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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. | |||
| 30 Oct 2022 | 179. When you have that gut feeling with Amy Parliman | 00:06:47 | |
| 06 Nov 2022 | 180. Survivors Grief, Family, and Managing Progression with Amy, Amanda and Claudia | 00:39:42 | |
| 22 Oct 2022 | 178. What to Know About Medical Marijuana for Breast Cancer | 01:29:42 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text!
Fighting bc w/cannabis Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/158067737931960/?ref=sharehttps://www.facebook.com/groups/158067737931960/?ref=share&exp=9594 | |||
| 20 Nov 2022 | 181. Heidi's Hope. Finding Your Way Forward | 00:28:45 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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. | |||
| 04 Dec 2022 | 182. Catching up with Laura and William before SABCS | 00:37:58 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! Laura and William share what they are most excited about heading into the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium. | |||
| 29 Dec 2022 | 184. What is the Inflammatory Breast Cancer Scoring Scale? Featuring Ginny Mason (Part II) | 00:20:11 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! Resources in this episode: Inflammatory breast cancer defined: proposed common diagnostic criteria to guide treatment and research:
| |||
| 25 Dec 2022 | 183. A 23 Year Look at Inflammatory Breast Cancer with Ginny Mason (Part I) | 00:22:10 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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. | |||
| 15 Jan 2023 | 185. Yes, I Have Cancer, But What About My Kids? | 00:51:36 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! Cancer is a difficult topic for anyone to discuss, but it's especially hard when you have to talk about it with your kids. | |||
| 29 Jan 2023 | 186. Meet the Men Behind the Ribbon | Rod Ritchie, Bob Huebner & Vance Stacks. | 00:57:33 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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! | |||
| 12 Feb 2023 | 188. Living with Other Illnesses And Then Getting Breast Cancer | Kathleen Friel, Aneela Idnani, Melanie Contreras & Lucia Kurz | 01:13:40 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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. 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. | |||
| 30 Jan 2023 | 187. Creating Resources and Programs Specific for Those Living with MBC | 01:02:15 | |
| 26 Feb 2023 | 189. Is it Safe To Exercise After Being Diagnosed With Breast Cancer? | with Michelle Stravitz from 2Unstoppable | 00:55:51 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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. | |||
| 26 Feb 2023 | 190. The Rundown of Resources for Breast Cancer Survivors & Thrivers with Stephanie Walker (Part I) | 00:32:44 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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.
| |||
| 19 Mar 2023 | 191. The Rundown of Resources for Breast Cancer Survivors & Thrivers with Christine Hodgdon (Part II) | 00:41:12 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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. | |||
| 03 May 2023 | 196. The Power of Circulating Tumor DNA (CT DNA) and Genetic Testing in Breast Cancer Treatment Decisions with Natera’s Janie Fielder. | 00:33:57 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! In this episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, Laura Carfang, founder of SurvivingBreastCancer.org, speaks with Janie Fielder a medical science liaison at Natera. The conversation centers around Signatera 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 Natera. The episode sheds light on the outstanding opportunities available to patients through Signatera, and the importance of informed decision-making in the breast cancer treatment process. Topics Covered Include: [00:02:21] Personalized cancer test. 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: | |||
| 26 Mar 2023 | 192. How to Get a Grip: Coping Strategies for Complicated Times with Dr. David Bullis | 01:05:16 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! Topics in today's episode
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.
| |||
| 10 May 2023 | 197. The Fight for My Life: Boxing Through Chemo with Kelly Motley | 00:39:27 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! Topics in today's episode:
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/ ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 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.
| |||
| 02 Apr 2023 | 193. DIEP Flap Reconstruction - What you need to know about Changes in Insurance Codes | 00:55:04 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! Topics in today's Episode:
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: | |||
| 23 Apr 2023 | 194. Getting to Know Abigail Johnston: A Breast Cancer Advocate's Story | 01:03:47 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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. 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: | |||
| 26 Apr 2023 | 195. Nuclear Medicine and the Importance of PET Imaging in Breast Cancer Oncology with Dr. Dehdashti | 00:27:54 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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. 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: | |||
| 17 May 2023 | 198. Diet, Exercise, and a Breast Cancer Vaccine, Oh My, with Judith Fitzgerald | 00:34:07 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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. 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: | |||
| 23 May 2023 | 199. Exploring Nuclear Medicine with Dr. Jacene and Dr. Specht | 00:45:58 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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.
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. 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: | |||
| 02 Jul 2023 | 200. Understanding Breast Cancer Screening Modalities With Experts Dr. Dibble and Dr. Rauch | 00:37:40 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! In this episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, host Laura Carfang is joined by Dr. Dibble and Dr. Rauch, two experts in breast cancer imaging. Dr. Dibble is a radiologist with expertise in nuclear medicine and molecular imaging, while Dr. Rauch 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. 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. 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: | |||
| 06 Jul 2023 | 201. The Importance of Physical Therapy in Breast Cancer Recovery with Expert Derly Munoz | 00:44:39 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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. 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. 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: | |||
| 23 Jul 2023 | 202. Good News for Triple Negative Breast Cancer: A Vaccine and Hope for the Future | 00:50:50 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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.
[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.
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. 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: | |||
| 13 Aug 2023 | 203. The Critical Role of Pathologists in Breast Cancer Management with Dr. Kulkarni. | 00:24:26 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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.
About Dr. Kulkarni 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. 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: | |||
| 10 Sep 2023 | 204. Prophylactic Mastectomy and BRCA Mutation: A Personal Story with Amy Gallagher. | 00:34:26 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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. 00:04:57 Importance of genetic testing 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. +++++++++++++++++++++ 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: | |||
| 21 Oct 2023 | 207. Is the Medicine Working? Exploring Treatment Efficacy in Breast Cancer with Dr. Rodriguez. | 00:47:38 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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. 00:06:07 Understanding breast cancer recurrence. 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. +++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++ 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. | |||
| 24 Sep 2023 | 205. Finding Strength and Joy in Parenting with Metastatic Breast Cancer with Carrie Danny | 01:06:32 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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.
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!" +++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++ 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. | |||
| 24 Sep 2023 | 206. Discovering Your Divine Purpose with Dr. Sophia Edwards-Bennett | 01:04:30 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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. 00:03:18 Radiation oncologist discusses breast cancer. 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. +++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++ 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. | |||
| 12 Nov 2023 | 210. Integrative Oncology and Lifestyle Medicine in Breast Cancer Treatment with Dr. Stacey Devine | 00:39:55 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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. Follow us on Instagram +++++++++++++++++++++ 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. | |||
| 29 Oct 2023 | 208. Unveiling the Realities of Metastatic Breast Cancer in October | 00:48:08 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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.
| |||
| 05 Nov 2023 | 209. The Dollars Behind the Cure: Where Does it Actually End Up? | 00:25:07 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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! [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. Follow us on Instagram +++++++++++++++++++++ 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. | |||
| 26 Nov 2023 | 211. Breast Cancer and the Law: Resources for Patients and Caregivers | 00:44:43 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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. Important Links: Follow us on Instagram +++++++++++++++++++++ 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. | |||
| 02 Dec 2023 | 212. Finding Your Voice With Brenda Denzler & Elaine Schattner | 01:00:13 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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. 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. +++++++++++++++++++++ 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 cou | |||
| 01 Jan 2024 | 213. Breaking the Silence on End-of-Life: Connecting Birth, Life, and Death with Curiosity with Gabi Dias | 00:48:45 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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. Quotes: Topics Covered In This Episode:
Get to know our guest speaker Gabi Dias: Important Links: 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. Follow us on Instagram | |||
| 04 Jan 2024 | 214. The Benefits of Pilates for Breast Cancer Recovery | 00:42:27 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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.
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.
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. Follow us on Instagram | |||
| 14 Jan 2024 | 215. Granting Wishes Brings Joy with Elesha Snyder & Jan Hillman | 00:48:13 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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 00:04:03 - Jan's Personal Experience with Breast Cancer +++++++++++++++++++++ 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. Follow us on Instagram | |||
| 21 Jan 2024 | 216. Dental Health and Cancer Treatment: What You Need to Know About Osteonecrosis of the Jaw | 01:07:55 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! In today's episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, we dive deep into oral health!
+++++++++++++++++++++ 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. Follow us on Instagram | |||
| 25 Feb 2024 | 225. A Decade of Survivorship: Identity, Advocacy, & The Arts with Rachel Burns from Cancer Culture | 00:45:25 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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.
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. | |||
| 18 Feb 2024 | 224. Jacquie Carter Angell: Balancing Business, Motherhood, and mTNBC | 00:42:35 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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 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. | |||
| 04 Feb 2024 | 222. Building a Strong Relationship Between Patients and Their Medical Team: Gracita's Story | 00:31:29 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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. 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. 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. | |||
| 28 Jan 2024 | 220. Parenting with Metastatic Breast Cancer (MBC) | 00:56:31 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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. 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. | |||
| 21 Jan 2024 | 217. Patient Advocate Tips for Attending SABCS | 00:11:20 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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! +++++++++++++++++++++ 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. | |||
| 22 Jan 2024 | 218. Inflammatory and Lobular Breast Cancer: Patient Advocates Share SABCS Insights | 00:10:06 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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. 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. | |||
| 24 Jan 2024 | 219. CDK 4/6 Inhibitors: What To Do When They Stop Working | 00:09:57 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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. 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. | |||
| 11 Feb 2024 | 223. SERDs, SERMs, CERANs, and PROTACs | 00:11:54 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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:
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. | |||
| 30 Jan 2024 | 221. Antibody Drug Conjugates (ADCs) Dato Potato | 00:12:55 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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. 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 con | |||
| 03 Mar 2024 | 227. Understanding and Coping with Medical PTSD in Cancer Care with Emily Parks | 01:09:37 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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 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. | |||
| 17 Mar 2024 | 229. The Signatera Test Explained: Stories from Breast Cancer Survivors & Thrivers | 00:52:34 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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. 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. 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. | |||
| 11 Mar 2024 | 228. 11 Years of Survivorship - A Breast Cancer Survivor's Story with Dawn Aegle | 00:54:03 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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. | |||
| 25 Feb 2024 | 226. Meet the MBC Leadership Team | 00:50:05 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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:
| |||
| 24 Mar 2024 | 230. Young and Diagnosed: A Journey to Motherhood & Parenting with Triple Positive Breast Cancer | 00:47:51 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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. 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. | |||
| 31 Mar 2024 | 231. Shattering the Silence: Speak Out on Breast Cancer and Domestic Violence | 00:44:59 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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.
Resources: 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. | |||
| 21 Apr 2024 | 232. Empowering Breast Cancer Patients in the Workplace: Insights and Experiences | 00:50:44 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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
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. 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. | |||
| 28 Apr 2024 | 233. Voices of Resilience: A Night of Poetry and Healing | 00:48:21 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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: 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. | |||
| 19 May 2024 | 234. Michelle Sandlin, Living Her Best Life with BRCA 1 | 00:42:58 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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! [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: 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. | |||
| 15 Jun 2024 | 235. AI in Breast Cancer Care: The Impact of Breast Friend AI with Jessica Baladad | 00:39:39 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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.
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. | |||
| 23 Jun 2024 | 236. From Diagnosis to Survivorship: Stories and Support for Early Stage Breast Cancer. | 01:13:24 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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. | |||
| 07 Jul 2024 | 237. The Power of Exercise and the Nifty 150 Project with Briana Rickertsen | 00:49:00 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! In today's episode, host, Laura Carfang speaks with breast cancer survivor Briana Rickertsen. Briana 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. Briana discovered she has a BRCA2 mutation, leading to further preventive measures, including ovary removal. [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. | |||
| 14 Jul 2024 | 238. Integrating Naturopathic Medicine with Conventional Breast Cancer Care. Interview with Dr. Laura James | 00:58:06 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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. You can follow her at: SURVIVINGBREASTCANCER.ORG Attend a free virtual SurvivingBreastCancer.org event: 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. | |||
| 11 Aug 2024 | 241. FES PET vs FDG PET CT Scans: Which is Best for Metastatic Breast Cancer? | 00:38:29 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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. 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. | |||
| 02 Aug 2024 | 240. Understanding Nuclear Medicine in Breast Cancer Care. What Every Patient Needs To Know | 00:23:56 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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. Kiser 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. Attend a free virtual SurvivingBreastCancer.org event: 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. | |||
| 28 Jul 2024 | 239. Dating, Sex, & Love with Cancer | 00:55:43 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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. Attend a free virtual SurvivingBreastCancer.org event: 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. | |||
| 15 Sep 2024 | 242. Breaking Barriers: Advocating for Yourself When You Have Inflammatory Breast Cancer with Katrece Nolen Part I | 00:41:49 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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). 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. SURVIVINGBREASTCANCER.ORG 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. | |||
| 19 Sep 2024 | 243. Emotional and Physical Challenges Post-Treatment. Katrece Nolen on IBC Survivorship | 00:19:01 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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! 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. | |||
| 29 Sep 2024 | 244. Understanding Nurse Navigation: Support and Resources for Cancer Patients | 00:48:33 | |
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. 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. | |||
| 06 Oct 2024 | 245. The Role of Advanced Imaging in Breast Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment | 00:47:43 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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. 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. | |||
| 13 Oct 2024 | 246. Transforming Lives: Heather Salazar on Adoption, Cancer, and Pink Ribbon Good | 00:37:11 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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. 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. | |||
| 20 Oct 2024 | 247. Navigating Gender Bias and Legislation in Women's Health with Dr. Amani Jambhekar | 00:39:38 | |
Love the episode? Send us a text! 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. 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. | |||