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Riding the Waves: Meg Stafford's Unfiltered Journey Through Cancer

Release Date: 06/30/2024

Cannabis vs. Cancer: Uncorking the Truth with Dr. Benjamin Caplan

Cancer is a Stupid Jerk

"Cannabis, when supplemented with traditional pharmaceuticals like chemotherapy for cancer, seems to work better in every way." — Dr. Benjamin Caplan In this episode of Cancer is a Stupid Jerk, host Mike Carlon sits down with Dr. Benjamin Caplan, a renowned family physician and expert in medical cannabis. Over the past 17 years, Dr. Caplan has overseen the care of more than 250,000 patients and mentored hundreds of physicians. He shares his unconventional journey into the world of medical cannabis, dispels common myths, and highlights the therapeutic potential of this versatile plant....

Run Your Own Race with Bill Potts: Transforming Pain into Purpose in the Fight Against Cancer

Cancer is a Stupid Jerk

"When you have to think about dying, it teaches you how to live better." – Bill Potts In this episode of Cancer is a Stupid Jerk, we dive deep into the resilient journey of Bill Potts, a five-time cancer survivor, motivational speaker, and business leader. Bill shares his personal experiences with cancer, the battles he fought, the lessons he learned, and how he transformed his pain into purpose. This episode is a beacon of hope and motivation for cancer patients and caregivers alike, demonstrating the power of positivity, perseverance, and community in the face of adversity. ...

Finding Joy in Small Moments, with Ann Bancroft

Cancer is a Stupid Jerk

"I wasn't interested in writing about my own cancer journey, but I was interested in the idea of what if my situation had been flipped." — Ann Bancroft In this heartfelt episode of "Uncorking a Story," host Michael Carlon sits down with Ann Bancroft, a remarkable two-time breast cancer survivor who has made her literary debut at the age of 71. Bancroft shares her journey from a career in journalism to becoming a novelist, the challenges she faced during her cancer treatments, and how she found inspiration in the small joys of life. Her debut novel, "Almost Family," explores the power of...

Running from Cancer, with Severine Tarayre

Cancer is a Stupid Jerk

"You have to be open to help because you can't do it all alone. Your support system is crucial." —Severine Tarayre In this episode of "Cancer is a Stupid Jerk," host Mike Carlon sits down with Severine Tarayre, a resilient French-American and nine-year survivor of triple-negative breast cancer. Diagnosed at the age of 36, just days after running her first half marathon, Severine shares her incredible journey through aggressive treatment, her unwavering passion for running, and the invaluable support system that helped her every step of the way. Tune in to hear her inspiring story of...

Not the Final Chapter, with Diane Gilman

Cancer is a Stupid Jerk

"Life handed me lemons, but I made some lemonade out of them."—Diane Gilman In this powerful episode, we welcome the remarkable Diane Gilman, affectionately known as the "Queen of Jeans." Diagnosed with breast cancer at 71, Diane shares her incredible story of resilience, transformation, and newfound purpose. Despite her battle with cancer, Diane pivoted from a highly successful career in tele-retail to inspire and empower women over 50. She discusses the profound lessons learned from her experience and how she now dedicates her life to helping women reinvent themselves and thrive in their...

Riding the Waves: Meg Stafford's Unfiltered Journey Through Cancer

Cancer is a Stupid Jerk

Relying on others and allowing yourself to be helped can be one of the most powerful lessons learned during a cancer journey.— Meg Stafford In this episode of Cancer is a Stupid Jerk, we meet Meg Stafford, a breast cancer survivor (rider) who shares her journey through diagnosis, treatment, and the lessons she learned along the way. Meg, a therapist and writer, discusses how she balanced cancer treatment with maintaining a sense of normalcy in her life. This conversation is filled with humor, resilience, and valuable insights for anyone facing a similar journey. Key Topics: Life...

Living for Myself Again, with Suzanne Marriott

Cancer is a Stupid Jerk

Working together in a collaborative manner with my husband, based on love and trust, was one of the most important things. - Suzanne Marriott In this episode of "Cancer is a Stupid Jerk," host Mike Carlon interviews Suzanne Marriott, who was diagnosed with colon cancer while caring for her husband, who was living with multiple sclerosis (MS). Suzanne shares her journey through cancer treatment, the challenges of being a caregiver, and the lessons she learned along the way. This powerful conversation highlights the resilience and strength required to navigate such life-altering experiences. Key...

I Cancelled God, with Cindy Finch

Cancer is a Stupid Jerk

“Oh, I cancelled God. I canceled Him many times. I'm like, you're fired. You're done. This is ridiculous.” At thirty-one, Cindy Finch was diagnosed with non-Hodgkins Lymphoma. Oh, and she was also pregnant. After giving birth to her son, Cindy’s health declined, and she eventually faced multiple organ failure. After being told she had only six days to live, she experienced the ultimate dark night of the soul over two thousand miles away from home and bargained with God before ultimately cancelling Him. But the Lord works in mysterious ways, and in the throes of an existential...

More Episodes

Relying on others and allowing yourself to be helped can be one of the most powerful lessons learned during a cancer journey.— Meg Stafford

In this episode of Cancer is a Stupid Jerk, we meet Meg Stafford, a breast cancer survivor (rider) who shares her journey through diagnosis, treatment, and the lessons she learned along the way. Meg, a therapist and writer, discusses how she balanced cancer treatment with maintaining a sense of normalcy in her life. This conversation is filled with humor, resilience, and valuable insights for anyone facing a similar journey.

Key Topics:

Life Before Cancer: Meg describes her active life as a therapist, writer, and mother of two before her cancer diagnosis, highlighting her enjoyment of cycling and spending time with her family.
Diagnosis and Initial Reactions: Meg found a lump during Memorial Day weekend and quickly initiated medical consultations, leading to a breast cancer diagnosis. She candidly discusses the anxiety of waiting for results and the relief of having a supportive treatment team.
The Triathlon of Treatment: Meg underwent chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation, referring to this comprehensive treatment approach as a "triathlon." She shares how she managed the physical and emotional challenges of each phase.
Incorporating Alternative Therapies: To support her body through the rigors of treatment, Meg incorporated acupuncture and massage, which she found helpful in managing side effects and maintaining her well-being.
Writing as Therapy: Meg documented her journey through a blog-like email distribution list, which later became her book, "Topic of Cancer: Riding the Waves of the Big C." Writing helped her process her experiences and provided a way to keep friends and family informed without repeatedly recounting her story.
Community and Support: Meg emphasizes the importance of accepting help from others and the profound impact of community support. From food chains organized by friends to strangers offering assistance, she found strength in the kindness of those around her.
Advice for Those Newly Diagnosed and in Treatment: Meg advises those newly diagnosed to take one day at a time and focus on activities they enjoy. For those in treatment, she encourages remembering that the difficult period is often temporary and to nurture themselves in meaningful ways.