A Caregiver's Journey Through Brain Cancer With Michelle Matthews
The Cancering Show
In the episode, Dr. JYP delves into the heart of living with, and beyond, brain cancer with Michelle Matthews. Michelle shares her husband Matt's journey with glioblastoma and how they remained hopeful throughout the diagnosis and treatment. Despite the challenges, they cherished every moment together and found solace in support from their loved ones and community. Michelle also stresses the importance of self-care and the role of caregivers in cancer treatment and survivorship. Dr. JYP emphasizes the significance of shared experiences and compassionate care in the cancer journey. Ultimately,...
info_outline
Advance Care Planning with Stephanie Broussard
The Cancering Show
In this episode, Dr. JYP talks with licensed clinical social worker about the importance of patients sharing their wishes regarding palliative and end-of-life care. Broussard stresses the need to include a social worker as part of the cancer care team from the point of diagnosis to address emotional distress. She explains that palliative care, which focuses on relief from the symptoms and stress of a serious illness, is different from hospice care, which is a Medicare benefit and service for those with a terminal diagnosis. shares why it's vital for everyone, even young adults, to have a...
info_outline
Five Years of Survivorship with Gina Gregory
The Cancering Show
In this episode, Dr. JYP talks with , a breast cancer survivor and a second-time Cancering Show guest. Gina shares her journey five years after her initial diagnosis, discussing the difficulties of living with cancer and the side effects from treatment, such as receding gums and ringing ears. She is open about the challenges, as well as the strength and faith she gained along the way. Gina offers advice on how survivors can manage their health after cancer, including eating a balanced diet (and finding a middle ground with organic foods), and making time for regular workouts. Having...
info_outline
Triple Negative Breast Cancer with Dr. Ayesha Munir
The Cancering Show
In this Cancering episode, Dr. JYP is joined by oncologist as they tackle the complex and crucial topic of breast cancer and health disparities. Together, they explore the impact of socioeconomic status on health inequalities, the challenges faced by different racial groups in accessing breast cancer screening, and the concerning prevalence of triple-negative breast cancer among African American women. They discuss the research into the biological underpinnings of triple negative breast cancer and the promising developments in immunotherapy. This is an episode you won't want to...
info_outline
Therapeutic Gardening With Barbara Boone
The Cancering Show
In this episode, Dr. Jennifer Young Pierce talks with guest Barbara Boone, who shares her journey with endometrial cancer and how gardening has helped her through the tough times. Barbara emphasizes the benefits of gardening, such as stress relief, a sense of achievement and being part of a nurturing gardening community. Even during her cancer treatment, Barbara stayed positive by focusing on daily achievements and supporting others. Dr. JYP points out the need for cancer patients to take safety precautions in the garden, such as wearing a mask to protect against harmful microbes. They also...
info_outline
Cancer as a Chronic Disease
The Cancering Show
In the latest episode of The Cancering Show, Dr. Jennifer Young Pierce delves into the topic of cancer as a chronic disease. It's a thought-provoking discussion that challenges our understanding of cancer and survivorship. Dr. Pierce emphasizes that cancering is not just a phase or a battle to be won, but an ongoing journey that requires long-term management and adaptation. She shares insights on the concept of cancer as a chronic disease and its implications for patients, survivors and caregivers. 3 Key Episode Takeaways 1. Chronic Disease: Dr. Pierce emphasizes that cancer is an ongoing...
info_outline
Choosing Previvorship with Haley Orillion
The Cancering Show
In today's episode, Dr. Jennifer Young Pierce is joined by the brave and resilient Haley Orillion, who shares her powerful story of undergoing risk-reducing surgeries after learning she carries a BRCA gene mutation. From the societal pressures she faced to the emotional aftermath of her surgeries, Haley opens up about her experiences and ongoing challenges. Dr. Pierce guides us through Haley's journey, emphasizing the importance of support and advocacy, and breaking down complex information for listeners. Join us as we delve into the emotional and practical aspects of genetic mutations,...
info_outline
Miss Mobile Bay: Childhood Cancer Survivor Turned Activist
The Cancering Show
In this inspiring episode, we meet , a 13-year cancer survivor and an extraordinary advocate for childhood cancer research. Hannah shares her story of overcoming cancer at a young age, her journey to becoming Miss Mobile Bay and her relentless pursuit of her dreams. Hannah's resilience and dedication are truly remarkable, from her experience lobbying in Washington, D.C., to founding the nonprofit H.U.G.S. 4 Childhood Cancer. Prepare to be moved by her inspiring journey and her message of hope and empowerment. Join us as we delve into Hannah's incredible story and her impactful work in the...
info_outline
Cancering through the Holidays: Navigating Emotions and Celebrations
The Cancering Show
In this holiday special episode of The Cancering Show, Dr. Jennifer Young Pierce discusses the unique challenges that cancer patients face during the holiday season. Drawing on classic Christmas and holiday movies, she offers guidance on managing mixed emotions, navigating events, adapting to food restrictions, and providing support as a caregiver. Additionally, she addresses the financial hardships many cancer patients experience and emphasizes the gift of presence as the most meaningful present during the holidays. Throughout the episode, Dr. JYP extends support and encouragement to...
info_outline
Managing Mental Health With Cancer
The Cancering Show
In this episode, Dr. Jennifer Young Pierce discusses mental health and its impact on cancer patients. She emphasizes the importance of addressing mental health concerns and seeking help, as they can affect the overall quality of life and even survival. Dr. Pierce explains that mental health encompasses external factors (such as basic needs and purpose) and internal factors (such as anxiety and depression). She advises patients to assess their ability to engage in daily activities and seek help if they cannot. The oncology team is a good starting point for support, as they have expertise in...
info_outline
On this inspiring episode, Dr. Jennifer Young Pierce talks with Dr. Phillip Fields, professor of anatomy at the University of South Alabama College of Medicine. In 2007, Dr. Fields was diagnosed with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and told to give up his passion - running. Refusing to let leukemia dictate his life, he has run more than 100 marathons, including one in every state and Canadian Province, since 2009. Hear how Dr. Fields' love of running keeps him ahead of cancer. Plus, he shares his cancer and running journey in his book "The Long Road Back To Boston: Marathon Running with Leukemia."
Get Dr. Fields' Book >>>
“The Long Road Back to Boston” is available here.
All royalties from the sale of this book go to pediatric oncology.
Key Takeaways
- Keep or find a passion that help you through your treatment and the hard times.
- Consult with your physician and cancer treatment team to see what exercise, hobbies and passions are OK with your cancer care and treatment plan.
- A cancer diagnosis is not the end of life, it's a beginning.
- Don't attempt the cancer journey by yourself.
- Be knowledgeable about your cancer.
Dr. Fields Said:
We’re all going to die, so we may as well die doing what we love.
As long as you have a goal, you’ve got something to look forward to. Once you reach that goal, you want to establish another goal.
Mentorship has been a chance to share my story and get the word out to cancer patients that diagnosis is not the end of life; it’s the beginning.
Don’t attempt the cancer journey by yourself. Always have somebody you can turn to that will share experiences with you.
Be knowledgeable about the cancer.
You constantly feel the fatigue associated with the leukemia. Because of the effects of chemotherapy, my marathon times got slower and slower. But I can’t imagine not being able to run.
I’m about six states shy of running marathons in all the states a second time.
//////
Never Miss an Episode
Please subscribe to The Cancering Show
Want us to deliver The Cancering Show to your email inbox?
Let us know by contacting Dr. JYP at cancering.com.
Thanks for listening to The Cancering Show, brought to you by USA Health Mitchell Cancer Institute.
Please subscribe, rate and review The Cancering Show wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts.
Until next time, be healthy, happy and always thriving.
USA Health Mitchell Cancer Institute
The Cancering Show is brought to you by USA Health Mitchell Cancer Institute. MCI is a cutting-edge cancer research and treatment center built to fight cancer smarter in Mobile and Baldwin counties in Alabama. Our researchers and clinicians focus daily on the struggle against cancer, serving a potential catchment population of more than 4.1 million people, with a singular focus of advancing cancer diagnosis, treatment, and prevention throughout the Gulf Coast and beyond with science, technology and hope.
Want to know more about the Mitchell Cancer Institute?
Visit us at usamci.com or search for us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Mitchell Cancer Institute is a member of USA Health.
To learn more about all of USA Health hospitals, clinics and services, visit usahealthsystem.com.