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Living Again: Ashley's Empowering Journey with Breast Cancer

Release Date: 06/04/2025

Navigating the Challenges of Radiation: A Personal Account

Combating Cancer

Episode 7- Show Notes: In this episode of Combating Cancer, host Gwen Kelly shares her deeply personal journey with radiation therapy after being diagnosed with stage three astrocytoma brain cancer at 19. She discusses the emotional challenges and physical side effects she faced, including the loss of her independence and hair, and the impact on her mental health. Gwen speaks candidly about the vital role that support from loved ones played in her journey and offers heartfelt advice to others facing similar challenges. Amid the difficulties, she also reflects on the powerful connections and...

Stronger Together: Uniting Against Brain Cancer

Combating Cancer

Episode 6- Show Notes: In this episode of Combating Cancer, host Gwen Kelly welcomes guest Tiffanie Thomson, who shares the emotional impact of both her parents being diagnosed with glioblastoma. They discuss the challenges caregivers face, the need for greater awareness, improved treatments, and increased funding for research. Tiffany also offers coping strategies and resources, highlighting the vital role of community and support during difficult times. Discussed in this episode: Connecting Through Shared Experiences Tiffanie's Parents Battle Against GBM The Emotional Toll of...

Beyond the Mirror: Coping with Hair Loss

Combating Cancer

Episode 5- show notes: In this episode of Combating Cancer, host Gwen Kelly shares her journey with hair loss during treatment for stage three astrocytoma brain cancer. After an update on her clean 90-day scans, she opens up about the emotional and physical challenges of losing her hair, the impact on her identity, and the healing power of support. Gwen offers practical advice and a powerful reminder that hair loss is temporary, and true beauty lies in strength and self-compassion. Discussed in this episode: Life Update: Clean Scans Coping with Hair Loss: The Initial Reaction Post...

Living Again: Ashley's Empowering Journey with Breast Cancer

Combating Cancer

Episode 4- show notes: In this powerful episode of Combating Cancer, host Gwen Kelly sits down with Ashley Saaranen, a brave and resilient breast cancer survivor. Together, they explore Ashley's life before her diagnosis, the shock and challenges that followed, and the emotional journey through treatment and recovery. With grace and honesty, Ashley also shares what life looks like after cancer, including her family's bold decision to start a hobby farm. This heartfelt conversation is a testament to hope, resilience, and the possibility of finding joy and meaning in the aftermath of...

The Emotional Rollercoaster of Scanxiety

Combating Cancer

Episode 3- show notes: In this episode of Combating Cancer, host Gwen Kelly discusses the emotional toll of scan anxiety, the importance of support from loved ones, and how she manages her fears by focusing on what she can control. She encourages listeners to open up about their struggles, seek comfort from their support systems, and live in the present despite the uncertainties. This episode aims to offer comfort to others who are experiencing similar challenges. Discussed in this episode: Host introduction and background Topic of Scanxiety Everyday struggle with scanxiety Different...

In Memory of JD: A Tribute to Life, Music, & Resilience

Combating Cancer

Episode 2- show notes: In this heartfelt episode of Combating Cancer, host Gwen Kelly speaks with Sue Dettinger about her son JD, who passed away from brain cancer at the age of 22. Sue shares intimate details of JD's life as a talented musician, his diagnosis of stage four glioblastoma during his sophomore year in college, and the various treatments he underwent. Sue reflects on the emotional journey, from diagnosis to JD's peaceful passing at home. The episode highlights the significance of support, the value of sharing stories, and the collective need to raise awareness and funding for...

The Diagnosis That Changed Everything: My Fight Against Brain Cancer

Combating Cancer

Episode 1- show notes: Welcome to the very first episode of Combating Cancer. I'm your host, Gwen Kelly, and on this episode, you will hear the unfiltered story of how my life changed forever at 19 years old. One moment I was a college tennis player living my dreams in New York, and in the blink of an eye I was waking up from a seizure with a stage four brain cancer diagnosis. In this vulnerable episode, I walk you through the events that led to my diagnosis, the emotional and physical battles I faced, and how I chose to fight back; not just for myself, but for others who feel lost, isolated,...

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Episode 4- show notes:

In this powerful episode of Combating Cancer, host Gwen Kelly sits down with Ashley Saaranen, a brave and resilient breast cancer survivor. Together, they explore Ashley's life before her diagnosis, the shock and challenges that followed, and the emotional journey through treatment and recovery. With grace and honesty, Ashley also shares what life looks like after cancer, including her family's bold decision to start a hobby farm. This heartfelt conversation is a testament to hope, resilience, and the possibility of finding joy and meaning in the aftermath of adversity. Please tune in for an inspiring reminder that while cancer changes everything, it doesn't define you!

Discussed in this episode:

Ashley's Breast Cancer Journey Begins: Diagnosis and Initial Reactions
Surgery and Treatment Decisions
The Impact of Friends and Family
Living with the Lingering Trauma from Cancer
Life After Cancer: New Beginnings and Perspectives
Final Reflection and Encouragement

More from Gwen:

Get in touch with our team for sponsorship inquiries or guest host submissions: [email protected]

More from Ashley:

Get in touch with Ashley here: https://www.instagram.com/ashsaar?igsh=ODh2NXJ6OTFpYjN6 & https://www.instagram.com/emeraldacres.farm?igsh=Yjdua3ZwdnJrb2Rl

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