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Navigating the Challenges of Radiation: A Personal Account

Release Date: 06/25/2025

Battling Grief: Scott Kaufman Shares His Daughter's Legacy

Combating Cancer

Episode 12- Show Notes: In this episode of Combating Cancer, host Gwen Kelly speaks with Scott Kaufman, a father who shares the experience of losing his daughter, Jennifer, to brain cancer. Gwen and Scott discuss the shock of the diagnosis, the challenges of navigating treatment, and the impact it had on their family. Scott reflects on the role his faith played, the support he received from the cancer awareness community, and the ongoing need for research into brain cancer. Together, they underscore the resilience required to face such circumstances and the importance of community and ongoing...

Living Beyond Cancer: Tips and Triumphs

Combating Cancer

Episode 11- Show Notes: In this episode of Combating Cancer, host Gwen Kelly shares her personal story of battling stage three astrocytoma brain cancer. Diagnosed at 19, Gwen discusses the importance of maintaining a positive mindset, establishing a routine, practicing gratitude and prayer, and the benefits of physical exercise even during treatment. She highlights how journaling, staying social, and continuing to engage in enjoyable activities helped her cope with her struggles. Through her experiences, Gwen emphasizes trying to live as normally as possible to find moments of joy and strength...

Triumph of the Caregiver: A Pancreatic Cancer Journey

Combating Cancer

Episode 10- Show Notes: In this deeply moving episode of Combating Cancer, host Gwen Kelly sits down with Gary Gross, who shares an inspiring and intimate account of his journey as a caregiver to his wife during her battle with stage four pancreatic cancer. Gary reflects on the whirlwind of emotions following her diagnosis, the decisive steps they took toward treatment, and the remarkable story of her becoming NED (No Evidence of Disease) for eight years after chemotherapy, against all odds. He candidly discusses the emotional toll and practical challenges of caregiving, offering heartfelt...

Not Again...

Combating Cancer

Episode 9- Show Notes: In this episode of Combating Cancer, host Gwen Kelly shares her personal experience of fearing a cancer recurrence after discovering a lump in her breast. Despite being physically fine, Gwen opens up about the emotional turmoil and PTSD triggered by this scare, reflecting on her past battle with brain cancer. She emphasizes the importance of taking health concerns seriously, being proactive, and acknowledging that healing is both physical and emotional. Gwen encourages listeners to be honest about their fears and continue seeking medical help without embarrassment. This...

Warriors Against Cancer: Anthony's Story

Combating Cancer

Episode 8- Show Notes: In this episode of Combating Cancer, host Gwen Kelly speaks with Anthony Pecorella, a survivor of Burkitt lymphoma. Anthony shares his diagnosis journey at 22, his treatment experiences, and the unexpected friendship with a young girl named Eli, also battling cancer. The conversation highlights the mental and emotional toll of cancer, the importance of a supportive community, and finding strength in vulnerability. Anthony discusses how the ordeal has shaped his life, his advocacy for mental health, and his ongoing efforts in public speaking and raising cancer awareness....

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...

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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 moments of hope that gave her strength along the way.

Discussed in this episode:

Discovering the Tumor and Initial Challenges
The Starting Phases of Radiation
The Mask Fitting Experience
Coping with Side Effects
The Emotional Toll of Hair Loss
Ringing the Bell and Moving Forward

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