Episode 59: A Breast Cancer Patient Intent on Finding Access to a DIEP Flap Surgeon
Release Date: 06/19/2024
Episode 95: Where Passion Meets Surgical Precision
DiepCJourney Podcast
As part of my work at , I am able to meet in person, well-known board-certified surgeons across the world. My guest is one such surgeon I know. I have been anxious to interview her. Two words I find myself choosing to describe her are: Adaptable and compassionate. Each time I see her at a conference, the conversation is so easy and comfortable. I can’t think it would be any different with her patients. is a plastic surgeon at the at Magee Women’s Hospital. Topics she covers in our interview include: · How she developed her passion for...
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Episode 94: A Breast Reconstruction Journey Toward Clarity & Confidence
DiepCJourney Podcast
Deciding which breast reconstruction path to take is rarely simple. Whether facing an active breast cancer diagnosis, navigating a high‑risk genetic mutation, or having a strong family history of cancer, the process demands research, planning, trust, and a strong circle of support. In this episode of the , we sit down with Marcy Goodman who is a wife, mother, and dedicated professional. She opens up about the many layers of her decision to pursue autologous (using her own tissue) breast reconstruction. Marcy shares how she evaluated her options, found the right surgical team, and ultimately...
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Episode 93: Navigating Healthcare as a Patient Advocate
DiepCJourney Podcast
Patient advocacy shows up in so many meaningful ways, and my guest on this episode of the has been part of my own journey since the very beginning. We first connected back in 2015, when I was just starting to write my blog. She offered guidance, encouragement, and wisdom at a time when I was still finding my footing. I’ve followed her story ever since, and her voice has continued to inspire me and so many others. As a valued member of the DiepCJourney® community, it felt only natural to invite her to share her experience with all of you. I’m delighted to welcome Rebecca Hogue, Becky...
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Episode 92: Completion of Prophylactic Surgeries
DiepCJourney Podcast
Facing a genetic mutation that significantly increases the risk of breast cancer means making decisions that truly feel life‑defining. Today’s guest on the t, Emily Koellner, knows this experience intimately. With a strong family history of cancer, a mutation inherited from her father’s side, and the unwavering support of her two sisters and loved ones, Emily navigated her choices with courage and clarity. Many of you will remember my earlier interview with her sisters about their own prophylactic DIEP flap journeys. Now it’s Emily’s turn to share her perspective, her strength,...
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Episode 91: A Message of Kindness, Gratitude, and Courage
DiepCJourney Podcast
Hi listeners. It’s that time of year when we all take a few of those precious moments between the holidays and starting the New Year to look back, plan ahead, and savor those moments before heading back to work. This is the final of 2025 and I decided to go solo for the first time since beginning this podcast during the pandemic in January of 2021. Let’s take a look back at what we have provided courtesy of my outstanding guests. I always say, a podcast is only as good as its guests, and I am so lucky to have met them via my podcast and many I have met in person. When I had my in...
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Episode 90: Shared Decision-Making in Healthcare: Insights from Dr. C
DiepCJourney Podcast
We are diving into a conversation that’s close to my heart and vital to the breast cancer community. On this episode of the are going to talk about the term, shared decision-making as it pertains to healthcare and take a deeper dive into its use in breast cancer surgery and breast reconstruction with a returning guest . Dr. C is the CEO of , Director of Professional Relations & Global Partnerships at , Founder, , and creator of the . You may have heard previous interviews on the topic of shared decision-making with me and my guest. You may also have seen via our that we are...
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Episode 89: A Holistic Approach to Breast Reconstruction
DiepCJourney Podcast
What does it mean to truly heal after breast cancer? In this episode of the , we sit down with of Tucson Plastic Surgery to explore a holistic approach to breast reconstruction—one that goes beyond surgical technique to embrace emotional well-being, shared decision-making, and compassionate care. From honoring each patient’s story to integrating wellness into recovery, Dr. Kurtovic offers insights that empower survivors to reclaim their bodies and their confidence with grace. Dr. Silvia Kurtovic is part of the team of surgeons at . She works with performing a number of...
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Episode 88: PRMA's TruSense® in Breast Reconstruction for Sensate Breasts
DiepCJourney Podcast
This interview was conducted at the practice in San Antonio during Breast Reconstruction Awareness week. discusses PRMA’s and sensation to the breasts. With extensive background training and twenty-five years of experience with the , Dr. Nastala is particularly interested in the sensation of the breast, nerve repair, and optimizing outcomes for their breast reconstruction patients. They achieve this through ongoing research and improvement in surgical techniques at PRMA. He discusses the nerve anatomy of the breasts and some of the limitations of the body’s own ability to...
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Episode 87: The Other 50%: Marcylle Combs on Career, Cancer, And Courage
DiepCJourney Podcast
In the world of podcasting, you meet folks you feel like you’ve known for a while because of your connections, and you’ve only seen them through the lens of your laptop camera. This is the case for my guest on this episode of the , host of the podcast ! Marcylle Combs, MS, RN is an Entrepreneur, Leadership Expert, , Author, and Podcast Host committed to leveraging her experience in empowering individuals to realize their highest potential. She spent over 30 years leading a large healthcare organization, which she owned, operated, and grew from a small home health agency to a...
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Episode 86: Journavx: Expert Insights on New Non-opioid Pain Relief after Breast Reconstruction
DiepCJourney Podcast
In this powerful episode, and , renowned experts in breast reconstruction and pain management join forces to explore the groundbreaking potential of , a new non-opioid oral pain medication designed to address acute post-surgical pain. With a shared commitment to improving patient outcomes and reducing reliance on opioids, this is the first FDA approved non-opioid oral pain medication for acute pain approved by the FDA in twenty years. They unpack the science behind Journavx, its clinical applications, and what it means for the future of recovery after breast reconstruction. Listeners will...
info_outlineAccess to medical care for those affected by breast cancer is crucial, and often life transformative. This personal story will give emphasis to the voice of an advocate, a woman of strength, and determined to find the best care available for her during her personal journey from diagnosis to recovery from reconstructive surgery.
My guest on this episode of the DiepCJourney podcast is Dana Brown, a 54-year-old wife, mother, and educator. She has been married to her best friend and soulmate for 35 years. She was intent on finding a well-qualified microsurgeon to perform her DIEP flap breast reconstruction after enduring multiple surgeries, chemotherapy, and radiation.
It turned out to be a formidable task but one she tackled head on. After researching other practices around the country, she was able to find one in her state. She found Dr. Kasia Kania to perform her breast reconstruction. Dana's voice waivers when she tells us the words Dr. Kania spoke to her at their initial consult, "I can fix that."
Together, they wrote appeals to state insurance to obtain the best possible care for Donna.
She is now in recovery from her successful DIEP flap with Dr. Kania. The lesson to be learned is one of perseverance and stopping at nothing until one finds the best surgeon to perform what is for many a life-changing surgery after loss of breasts due to breast cancer.
Dana’s story is not unique. There are many who must fight to gain access to care. It can be emotionally and physically exhausting but with Dana’s determination and the combined efforts and support of her family and surgeon, she made it happen. The listener will draw many lessons and tips from my guest. It was a touching interview and I value the honest account of Dana’s experience helping others.
Dana’s social media account:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drdanajo/
Dr. Kasia Kania’s social media accounts and information:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drkasiakania/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taylorplasticsurgery/
LinkedIn: Kasia Kania, MD, MPH
Facebook: Taylor Plastic Surgery