DiepCJourney Podcast
Two-time breast cancer survivor, Terri Coutee, will share first hand knowledge of her personal Journey through successful breast reconstruction. She chose DIEP flap but will talk about all options for surgery for those affected by breast cancer and facing a mastectomy. She will talk to surgeons, patients, and other health care workers to help the listener navigate their own personal Journey to make their best informed decsion.
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Episode 40: Breast Imaging in Breast Cancer
09/06/2023
Episode 40: Breast Imaging in Breast Cancer
This will focus on breast imaging. The questions we will discuss are when to see a radiologist, types of imaging, and more specifics about each type. We will look at what the future looks like in medical imaging in breast cancer. I’m speaking to Dr. Randy Miles. as the chief of breast imaging at with oversite over the breast divisions clinical, research, and educational programs. He also serves as the associate director for research in the radiology department. He earned his medical degree from . Dr. Miles has achieved multiple awards throughout his career and served on medical missions in Haiti and the Dominican Republic. He completed his master’s in public health degree from Harvard School of Public Health. He completed his diagnostic radiology residency training at the where he served as chief resident. He went on to complete his breast imaging fellowship training at the Medical Center, . Dr. Miles has been the recipient of numerous research grants and has published over fifty papers. He talks nationally on his work in artificial intelligence, health literacy, and breast cancer disparities. Join us as we share these topics that are of interest to those in the breast cancer community served at . Connect with Dr. Randy Miles on his social media accounts here: Twitter: LinkedIn:
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Episode 39: The London Breast Meeting 2023
08/23/2023
Episode 39: The London Breast Meeting 2023
The will be held from September 7-9, 2023, at the Royal College of Physicians. It is a special opportunity for me to interview and be interviewed by my guest today on this episode of the . My guests and I discuss opportunities we will be involved in at the London Breast Meeting from the perspective of industry leaders, a world class microsurgeon, and patient advocacy. My guests are , CEO of , a medical device company that makes advanced molecular sensing devices like the for microvascular breast reconstruction like DIEP flap. I also welcome Vice President of Operations for Spectros. joins us in conversation to discuss his role as at the London Breast Meeting. Dr. C is the current President of in San Antonio, Texas. We engage in conversation about the he created. It is the first shared decision-making app for breast cancer and breast surgery. Dr. C is the Founder of , a digital health company committed to improving patient experience, outcomes, and satisfaction via empowering shared decision-making mobile technology. I would like to share that this podcast interview was conducted in early July of 2023. We discussed a topic regarding insurance coverage for DIEP flap breast reconstruction that has been a great concern for many, especially those patients affected by breast cancer facing a mastectomy who are interested in tissue-based reconstruction. I am happy to announce at the publish date we can share the news that coverage for DIEP flap and other autologous tissue reconstruction will continue to be covered by insurance allowing full access to reconstructive options for women. We share the excitement of attending the London Brest Meeting and connecting with colleagues across the globe to learn from gamechangers in oncological breast care and breast surgery. Be sure to listen to our fun London favorites at the end of the interview! You can follow my guests and find out more on their LinkedIn accounts here:
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Episode 38: Sisters, BRCA 1, Three DIEP flap Stories
08/09/2023
Episode 38: Sisters, BRCA 1, Three DIEP flap Stories
My guests on this episode of the are three sisters, all of who have a BRCA 1 genetic mutation, and all of whom had DIEP flap breast reconstruction at the same surgical practice, , Plastic Reconstructive Microsurgical Associates, in San Antonio, Texas. This is also the surgical practice I had my DIEP flap performed by in December of 2014. Elaine, the youngest of the three sisters, lead the way being the first to have her prophylactic DIEP flap with . After finding she tested positive for the BRCA 1 genetic mutation, she completed her surgery in late May of 2017. While she was in recovery, her sister, Eleanor, the oldest of the three, had her prophylactic DIEP flap two weeks later with . I met Emily, the middle sister, while we both lived in Tucson, Arizona. Emily traveled to San Antonio in 2017 to help her sisters out during their recovery. After we sat down together in Arizona in 2018, it was in June of that year Emily decided to move forward with her DIEP flap with Dr. Ledoux. Her story is especially unique in that she planned a pregnancy after her DIEP flap. She shares the beautiful story of the birth of her young daughter after her DIEP flap. This is perhaps one of the most emotional, delightful podcasts I have recorded. We talked about so much we had in common, especially our ties to PRMA. All three sisters are advocates for those who carry a genetic mutation placing them at a high risk of getting breast cancer. They share their story and what others can do to mitigate their risk of getting breast cancer. Links on Facebook can be found here: Link for LinkedIn Account:
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Episode 37: Shining a Light on Survivorship in Breast Cancer
07/27/2023
Episode 37: Shining a Light on Survivorship in Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is a scary word that no one wants to hear from their physician. When you’re diagnosed with breast cancer your mind can often go to, “How long am I going to live?” But because treatments have improved over the years, survivorship in breast cancer is a word we are hearing more often now in breast cancer communities, online, and in the media. On this episode of the , we are shining a light on survivorship with our guest, , who has “seen both sides as a breast cancer survivor and breast cancer surgeon.” She completed her residency in general surgery at Ohio Health Doctors’ Hospital and went on to complete a fellowship in breast surgical oncology at OhioHealth Grant Medical Center in Columbus, Ohio. Dr. Halaharvi practices at the OhioHealth Physician Group. She shares her personal story, the procedures she performs for her patients including those with ptotic (droopy or sagging breasts) called the goldilocks mastectomy, her procedural practice in clinic for the newly diagnosed, and what she does in her personal life to achieve work-life balance. Links and social media accounts to find out more about Dr. Halaharvi
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Episode 36: Sexual Function Concerns in Women with Cancer
07/12/2023
Episode 36: Sexual Function Concerns in Women with Cancer
When our bodies are physically changed because of breast cancer, it has the real potential of affecting sexual health. There are multiple layers to look at when a person presents with sexual dysfunction. In other words, the natural process of the act of sex has been disrupted due to treatment, surgery, the emotional impact of cancer, and other considerations. My guest on this episode of the is an expert in this field. I want to welcome , professor of obstetrics and gynecology at the . Her Clinical Interests include Cancer Survivorship, Female Sexual Dysfunction, Female sexual function, Gynecologic Cancers, Integrated Women’s Health, and Medical Ethics. I am pleased about our common connections and would like to mention that I am conducting this podcast because of being asked to help in gathering information on the from patients in the community I serve. We are going to take an in-depth look at that program with Dr. Lindau today as part of the sexual concerns in women with cancer. Dr. Lindau is also the Founding chair of the on female sexual health and cancer. She also created, , a platform where every woman – and everyone who loves and cares for women – can learn truths about sex. On the podcast “,” Dr. Lindau tackles fully the problem of sexual health not being discussed among many physicians, no matter what discipline they specialize in. You can find Dr. Lindau on LinkedIn here:
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Episode 35: Achieving Symmetry and Understanding Fat Grafting in Breast Reconstruction
06/28/2023
Episode 35: Achieving Symmetry and Understanding Fat Grafting in Breast Reconstruction
Achieving symmetry and understanding fat grafting in breast reconstruction are topics patients frequently ask about. I reached out to an expert in the field. My guest on this episode of the is Dr. Tim Matatov of in Phoenix, Arizona. Dr. Matatov is a board-certified microsurgeon who performs procedures such as implant breast reconstruction, several autologous reconstruction procedures, autologous meaning using the patient’s own tissue to reconstruct the breast, nipple reconstruction, and a variety of other breast reconstruction procedures. He works with a team of two other surgeons, and . We discuss mastopexy, or breast lift, in the setting of breast reconstruction. Achieving symmetry in the contralateral breast for a unilateral DIEP flap is important to the patient. It serves a functional purpose as well when wearing wardrobe items like a bra. He points out the psychological benefits to the patient since this becomes a quality of life and self-image concern for women. Dr. Matatov outlines the various names and details of mastopexy procedures and why one might be chosen over the other for optimal patient outcomes. Dr. Matatov shares how important it is to have an open discussion with patients about managing reasonable expectations. Dr. Matatov continues the discussion with fat grafting. He points out that a lot of the techniques and percentages, and how it all works is for a majority of cases, theoretical. He states there is not any hard proof that one technique or device works better than the other. There are studies that are peer-reviewed but not randomized and controlled to a degree which backs up his statement on fat grafting methods. However, Dr. Matatov feels it is a very effective part of the breast reconstruction process. He points out again that managing patients’ expectations is very important in this step of breast reconstruction. It often takes more than one fat grafting procedure. Techniques, patient outcomes, value of patient support groups, are discussed further in the podcast. Social Media accounts to find out more about Dr. Matatov and his practice:
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Episode 34: Patient Advocacy: Living with Stage IV Metastatic Breast Cancer
06/14/2023
Episode 34: Patient Advocacy: Living with Stage IV Metastatic Breast Cancer
My guest today on the has a blog and website titled, No Half Measures, Living Out loud. 2017 was a pivotal year in the life of my guest, . Early that year, while dual nursing her twin boys she felt a lump in her left breast. The next few months involved multiple appointments with radiologists, oncologists, and surgeons. Abigail was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer. Abigail Johnston is a wife, mother, writer, educator, earned her JD after completing law school and is a patient advocate. She begins the interview by sharing her experience at the held in early 2023. She sat on . With all the complexities on that topic, she felt the FDA worked hard to make sure her voice was heard. Attending conferences allows her to meet other patient advocates and for Abigail and me, this is always one of the highlights of traveling to these meetings. We met in person in December of 2022 at the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium. As she says, “Those in person hugs, nothing is better, honestly.” She talks about the idea of “finding a purpose after a serious trauma.” Abigail states that trauma changes you fundamentally as a human being. The question becomes, how do you carry that trauma? Advocacy is the way Abigail has found some purpose in “the derailment of her life.” It has become an overarching theme in her life. This was a podcast interview that felt comfortable, informative, and one I will go back and listen to myself often. You can reach out to Abigail and find more of her work in the following links: Blog: Bio: Contact Information: Place to find Abigail’s writing and work:
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Episode 33: Democratization in Microsurgery: The Proximie System
05/24/2023
Episode 33: Democratization in Microsurgery: The Proximie System
Democratization is a noun. The meaning of democratization as it pertains to microsurgery is the action of making training and education available through technology, in this case, microsurgery in breast reconstruction. The chosen field of microsurgery requires hours of training and practice. Observing colleagues perform this sophisticated and complex surgery increases their own skill set with the primary goal being improving patient outcomes in breast reconstruction. I invited back to the two internationally known microsurgeons. practices in Sydney, Australia and is a fellow of the . He has a keen interest in microsurgery and did his training overseas to achieve this status. He is also trained to do robotic assisted surgery. is the current president of in San Antonio, Texas, and founder of the , a free shared decision-making app for breast cancer surgery and breast reconstruction. He holds a board certification in plastic surgery. As he states, board certification matters in your relevant field. Dr. C underwent further training in microsurgery that included burns and hand which led him to microsurgical breast reconstruction. It is the core of his practice with his team member surgeons at PRMA. Dr. Joe invited Dr. C to join him live in the operating theater using the Proximie technology system to observe a robotic assisted DIEP flap breast reconstruction. When you hear the term “mate” from a London born microsurgeon, Dr. C, referring to Dr. Joe in Sydney, you know they have become colleagues in surgery as well as friends who have a passion for providing the best outcomes for breast cancer patients in breast reconstructive surgery. I invite you enjoy the conversation and explanation of how these two cross-continental surgeons seamlessly joined each other via the Proximie technology system in the operating theater discussing, learning, and sharing their combined skill in a robotic assisted DIEP flap breast reconstruction. Dr. Joe and Dr. C both say this is the way forward, democratization in surgery, allowing more surgeons to train in real time, avoiding the need to travel and take them away from their patients and time in clinic and the OR. Resources discussed in the Podcast. Dr. Joe’s Dr. C’s Connect with Dr. Joe Connect with Dr. Chrysopoulo
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Episode 32: Patient Advocate, Storyteller, and Lobular Breast Cancer Survivor
05/10/2023
Episode 32: Patient Advocate, Storyteller, and Lobular Breast Cancer Survivor
is a breast cancer survivor who deals with a lot of effects from treatment and being diagnosed with lobular breast cancer at a very young age. But she excitedly begins our conversation by saying her pain melted away at the when she was able to meet patient advocates in person for the first time. Social media connects many of us but the conference we both attended in early December of 2023 allowed us to sit down together to share intimate conversations, ask each other how we are doing, and share our advocacy work. I was fortunate to be one of those advocates to finally meet her in person at the meeting. Megan-Claire experienced strange symptoms for about two years that were left without a diagnosis. Her mother had ovarian cancer when she was pregnant with Megan-Claire. She states she felt this made her a miracle baby for her parents. Megan-Claire felt certain at some point in her lifetime she would get cancer because she has a strong history in her family. Because of this she was able to get a mammogram at age thirty-five and have it covered by insurance. Being hyper aware of her body due to family history of cancer, the signs she saw were concerning. She noticed tiny green bruising on her legs, weight gain, loss of hair on the left side of her head, and a “zit” on the outside of her left breast. She knew something was not right. Megan-Claire shares with us she would like the medical community to be more aware that black women and other women of color will present with different symptoms that her white counterparts. This leads us to a more in-depth conversation on health disparities, implicit biases in breast cancer care and what Megan-Claire accomplishes in her community and advocacy work to improve the communication between the patient and physician. Megan-Claire will be participating in a community event to connect patients and provide these resources June 15-21 of 2023. The event and other ways to join Megan-Claire on social media can be found here. started by the FDA through the . Megan-Claire’s Linked Account: Breast Cancer Program Director:
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Episode 31: Project Restored after Breast Reconstruction
04/26/2023
Episode 31: Project Restored after Breast Reconstruction
The art of microsurgery transcends the work behind surgical loupes and microscopes when a breast cancer patient has breast reconstruction after loss of breasts due to a disease. My guest on this episode of the are two microsurgeons who worked together to create and selected several of their patients to participate in this unique artistic endeavor. Our key guest today is one of those patients, . Chelsey shares the story of her diagnosis at the very young age of 33. She has an extensive family history of breast cancer and felt she had a wealth of knowledge. However, when she was diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer, she tells us she had never heard of it before. Chelsey raises awareness not only for this subtype of breast cancer but also for those with metastatic breast cancer. A year after her initial diagnosis and breast reconstruction, she was diagnosed with metastatic disease. Her connection to and the program brought Chelsey to know she would be in caring and trusted hands with the community that NYBRA had set up. She felt both seen and heard. Chelsey states it is the most important thing in your breast reconstruction decision process. Chelsey shares, along with Dr. Israeli and Dr. Bank, the poignant moments and process of Project Restored.
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Episode 30: Classical Art & Drawing Concepts in Breast Reconstruction
04/02/2023
Episode 30: Classical Art & Drawing Concepts in Breast Reconstruction
We are speaking about the art and practice of microsurgery as it relates to breast reconstruction surgery in this episode of the . Microsurgery is a specialty of plastic surgery requiring training beyond plastic surgery residency. Microsurgery involves moving tissue and blood vessels from one part of the body to another to repair or replace tissue that has been affected by disease or trauma. Carefully dissecting blood vessels from a donor site, microsurgeons then place the tissue from the donor site to the new site and tie blood vessels together at the new site under high powered microscopes. One form of breast reconstruction is the DIEP flap. The donor site is the tummy tissue. This abdominal tissue is disconnected, and the new recipient site is the breast area that has been affected by breast cancer. My guest is a microsurgeon who frequently and successfully performs this type of breast reconstruction surgery. is a Professor of Plastic Surgery and Director of the Breast Reconstruction Program at . He has a keen interest in classical drawing. The parallel between classical art, drawing and breast reconstruction is our topic of conversation today. You can view some of his drawings on his Instagram account at
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Episode 29: Breast Cancer Answers from a Medical Oncologist
03/15/2023
Episode 29: Breast Cancer Answers from a Medical Oncologist
In this episode of the I speak with a medical oncologist. has her own podcast called, with Dr. Teplinsky. She is Head of Breast Medical Oncology and Clinical Assistant Professor of Medicine at The Icahn School of Medicine in Mount Sinai, NY. She has a robust and education speaking about key topics in cancer care and survivorship. She addresses the consequences of a cancer diagnosis and the very real occurrence of patients playing the “blame game” thinking they may have caused their cancer. She addresses risk factors and how risk factors are not causal. Her favorite quote in her office and what she shares with her patients is, “Inhale the future and exhale the past. I ask her about research in alcohol consumption as it relates to breast cancer patients. Dr. Teplinsky discusses those risk factors and what we need to be aware of. She carefully explains the affects of cancer treatment and how it can vary from patient to patient. Coordination of care with your medical team to manage these side affects is important. Working with your oncologist, radiologist, surgeon, and physical therapy among others becomes important in treatment management. Dr. Teplinsky shares her sage advice on using social media for breast cancer information. She also shares her thoughts on the financial toxicity breast cancer patients can face. You can find her on LinkedIn at .
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Episode 28: A Breast Cancer Journey of Resilience
02/27/2023
Episode 28: A Breast Cancer Journey of Resilience
, Adjunct Professor at Trinity Washington University in Washington, DC is an author, educator, breast cancer survivor, and woman of faith. She personifies resilience. Neosho is my guest on this episode of the . We met as patient advocates at the in December of 2022 and found our lives had many parallels. We talk about these parallels through our Kansas heritage and our own personal Journey through DIEP flap breast reconstruction. Neosho has experienced homelessness and going through breast cancer treatment at the same time. She writes about her life’s experience in her book, . Her faith has sustained her and grounded her throughout her life. Weaving in her healthy sense of humor she tells us it has been her strength and foundation. She is a first-generation college graduate and proud alumni of Howard University where she earned her Ph.D. Neosho is a volunteer as a sharing the knowledge she gained through her own breast cancer treatment and surgery. She also volunteers in the DC and . Our conversation wraps up as we share our Kansas connections. I am honored to share the story of her uncle, , a former mayor of Chanute, Kansas. Connect with Neosho on LinkedIn:
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Episode 27: Is Access to DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction in Danger?
02/08/2023
Episode 27: Is Access to DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction in Danger?
Access to DIEP flap breast reconstruction is in danger. Why? Because of coding changes to insurance, it may become out of reach financially for some women. This is the most advanced form of breast reconstruction available, and I felt it was time to address this concern. I begin by sharing my own story and how I was positively affected by making the choice to have DIEP flap after a second breast cancer diagnosis. I am one of thousands of voices who need to be heard, to be honored as we work to reverse this decision so access to this type of surgery can continue to be available. It was important for me to hear from the voice of a microsurgeon who is passionate about doing DIEP flaps and advanced microsurgical procedures to understand from her perspective why the coding changes are concerning to her for her patients. I invited my guest, to address the topic in this episode of the . We want the listeners to have resources to other entities who have set up advocacy pages so that you can share your voice, your story, so decision makers can see how important this choice in surgical options is for those affected by breast cancer. The following list is websites set up to help bring awareness to this coding change and what you can do to help.
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Episode 26: Breast Cancer Through the Lens of a Nurse Navigator
01/25/2023
Episode 26: Breast Cancer Through the Lens of a Nurse Navigator
We are discussing a topic that will resonate with many of our listeners who have been affected by breast cancer. Whether you are the patient, caregiver, physician, or surgeon we are going to discuss navigating the complex Journey of being diagnosed with breast cancer through the lens of a nurse navigator. How does one seek this help at the cancer center you are being treated at? We will discuss working during a diagnosis and while in treatment and living a full and purposeful life as a survivor after breast cancer and breast reconstruction. We will also unpack the often challenging topic of palliative care and end of life for those who have metastatic disease. My guest on this episode of the is , Co-Founder of (Adademy of Oncology Nurse & Patient Navigators) and University Distinguished Service Professor of Breast Cancer and the . These are only a few of Lillie’s accomplishments. She has many and is a well-known, well-respected voice in breast cancer and breast reconstruction. I am delighted to share this conversation with you. It felt so comfortable for me to record it for our listeners.
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Episode 25: Flap Monitoring in Breast Reconstruction and the History of the Guinea Pig Club in Plastic Surgery
01/11/2023
Episode 25: Flap Monitoring in Breast Reconstruction and the History of the Guinea Pig Club in Plastic Surgery
Since having DIEP flap, a plastic reconstructive surgery technique performed to rebuild breasts after a mastectomy, I have been fascinated with the field of plastic surgery and topics related specifically to breast reconstruction. I interview , CEO, of Spectros for the first episode of season three of the . Rob shares the story of his visit to the Queen Victory hospital () in England. He was able to visit Queen Victoria while attending the in late 2022. While at the conference, Rob demonstrated the developed by Spectros. T-Stat is used to monitor flaps in breast reconstruction and in our conversation, we discuss the efficacy of the T-Stat system and why it improves the surgeon’s success rate of flap procedures like the DIEP flap. We begin our conversation with the history of the Queen Victory Hospital treating burn victims during WWII. A surgeon from New Zealand, Archibald McIndoe, came to the Queen Victory hospital via a chance meeting with his cousin, Sir Harold Gillies, often considered the father of plastic surgery. Seeing the severe burn injuries sustained by pilots in WWII, McIndoe saw what his cousin, Sir Harold Gillies did using tube pedicles to rebuild the faces of WWI soldiers and expanded on this technique by treating the soldiers at Queen Victoria. He took healthy, unburnt tissue from other sites on the soldiers to reconstruct burnt tissue. He nurtured this community, and these airmen were considered “guinea pigs” as part of his pioneering work in reconstructive burn surgery. These young airmen treated by Archibald McIndoe became known as the Guinea Pig club. He took them under his care not only during their physical healing but also treating the psychological impact of having disfigurement from these burns. There were over 600 of these airmen. Rob shared some of the photos hanging in the halls of QVH taken during his visit listing the members of The Guinea Pig Club, Archibald McIndoe, and the operating theater. We go on to discuss modern day techniques used in microsurgery and how Rob became the CEO of Spectros. Flap monitoring is an important question many patients ask about. The T-Stat monitoring system is at the bedside of the patient after DIEP flap breast reconstruction to ensure that the blood flowing into the breast and out of the breast is monitored. The physician performing the DIEP flap has 24-hour access to real time data provided by the monitoring system via a small sensor placed on the flap to monitor it while the patient is in hospital after surgery. We went on to discuss how T-Stat can be used regardless of the coloration of skin. I hope this educational podcast discussion will encourage patients to ask about the type of tissue monitoring system their surgeon uses to monitor flaps during their initial consult for breast reconstruction. Many thanks to Rob for educating us about the benefits of the T-Stat system by Spectros.
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Episode 24: Thought Leaders in Shared Decision-Making
12/18/2022
Episode 24: Thought Leaders in Shared Decision-Making
The final episode of Season 2 of the DiepCJourney podcast brings together thought leaders in shared decision-making. This fireside chat includes the members of the (WHIS) . This team was formulated and is led by who founded WHIS in 2015. Taking a Good Health and Wellbeing (SDG3) approach to person centered health, Gareth Presch recognized that there were five key cornerstones of which all needed to be supported, at a the same time, by the same people: Health, Economy, Education, Environment, and Ecosystems. He discusses his work by looking back at the accomplishments and milestones met in his 2022 global travels, speaking engagements, and participation in the in Katowice, Poland in June of 2022. connects people to knowledge. She received training as a genetic scientist at Harvard and she is using her expertise through the project she created to find access to care for those across the globe. Her work has transformed the lives of cancer patients. You can read more about her story with one patient, through personalized treatment. is the current president of PRMA in San Antonio, Texas. He is a reconstructive microsurgeon performing breast cancer surgery primarily using the patient’s own tissue to reconstruct breasts lost to mastectomy. is an entrepreneur. He is the Founder of and through Toliman developed the first shared decision-making breast cancer surgery app, . His innovations brought him to Katowice, Poland with his daughter to present the Breast Advocate app at the World Urban Forum along with Gareth. I am proud to work with and know these thought leaders as we continue to understand the needs of global digital health, personalized care, and building communities through our collective efforts. As Susanne stated, “Movement is the greatest facilitator”. Dr. Chrysopoulo stated that the only constant we have is change. It is through incremental changes as change agents we can work to improve health care through shared decision making and promoting and developing best practices in health care communitcation.
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Episode 23: Dietitian and Coach for Breast Cancer Survivors
11/30/2022
Episode 23: Dietitian and Coach for Breast Cancer Survivors
Food and what to eat after a breast cancer diagnosis is our topic on this episode of the . About 80% of all breast cancers are ER positive. This means the breast cancer cells grow in response to the hormone estrogen. With so much information about what to eat, what not to eat, how much to eat, food can become a topic that triggers anxiety and confusion. My guest today is . She is a registered dietitian, nutrition therapist, and certified personal trainer. Most women diagnosed with hormone-positive breast cancer feel anxious and confused about food, especially after they finish treatment. She is also a survivor of hormone-positive breast cancer, and founder of the Peaceful Plate program. The Peaceful Plate program teaches how food supports survivorship health and well-being, and coaches women on ending food fear so they eat with peace, not panic. When you eat with peace, you enjoy your food. Cathy also writes the blog. Having concerns is not exclusive to those who have had hormone positive breast cancer. It revolves around all types of breast cancer and Cathy has room for coaching in all types of breast cancer. Cathy’s mantra, “When you eat for your breast health you eat for your overall best health!” Cathy can be found on Instagram at
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Episode 22: Clinical Trials in Breast Cancer
11/16/2022
Episode 22: Clinical Trials in Breast Cancer
How many people diagnosed with breast cancer think about clinical trials or being part of one? In this episode of the we are going to discuss the importance of patients asking about participation in clinical trials and studies to improve the lives of breast cancer patients. My guest is . She is the Director of Breast Oncology at the and Professor of Medicine at . Dr. Graff is passionate about connecting with her patients for personalized care and advancing breast cancer research, and breast cancer prevention. Our interview includes the process and steps involved for patients who sign up for clinical trials and studies. There are benefits for patients and Dr. Graff examines the processes. Her hope is this becomes standard of care for physicians to tell patients about clinical trials available and encourage them to sign up if they qualify. Dr. Graff is also involved with the in Kansas City, The , the American Society of Clinical Oncology, and other prominent organizations. She is a published author of several research papers. She was named “Woman Disrupter of the Year” at the 2022 American Society of Clinical Oncology Conference. Dr. Graff obtained her medical degree at the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine. She is active on social media sharing tweets about her research and work. We are both Kansas City Chiefs fans and occasionally share our love of the #ChiefsNation on . You can find out more about her work and interest in clinical trials and research on LinkedIn at:
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Episode 21: High Definition DIEP Flap
11/02/2022
Episode 21: High Definition DIEP Flap
High definition DIEP flap is combining the aesthetics of plastic surgery and the skill of microsurgery to optimize the donor site, the abdominal area, in breast reconstruction. of , sat down with me to record a Facebook Live interview for the . This occurred the day after BRA day, Breast Reconstruction Awareness Day 2022. This podcast is being used across other platforms, including the , and will also be seen on the The techniques used in high-definition DIEP flaps include methods of suturing and fat grafting to contour the shape of the abdominal area. Dr. Gassman addresses what patients are candidates and the conversation he has during a consult to explain what he will be doing during a high definition DIEP and what the recovery will be like.
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Episode 20: Planning Your Breast Reconstruction
10/19/2022
Episode 20: Planning Your Breast Reconstruction
You have been diagnosed with breast cancer or find you are at high risk of getting breast cancer and are facing a mastectomy. Now what? If you choose to reconstruct your breast what does this process look like? Patients are inundated with information at the beginning of a diagnosis or finding they have a genetic mutation. They see an oncologist, breast surgeon, plastic surgeon, radiologist, and other medical specialists. Where does a patient begin the research and planning for their breast reconstruction? Is timing important if you are currently undergoing treatment, either chemotherapy or radiation? Are lifestyle considerations important in the decision process? My guest on this episode of the is . He is a board-certified Plastic and reconstructive microsurgeon who practices in Gahanna, Ohio at just outside of Columbus Ohio. Along with his team at Midwest Breast he specializes in breast reconstruction (implant and tissue-based), aesthetic breast surgery, body contouring, and lymphedema surgery. The discussion we have today covers many of these topics in general terms for patients to begin to consider as they plan their own reconstructive Journey. Our goal is to provide this information to assist you at your consults in preparation for your breast reconstruction surgery.
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Episode 19: Efficient DIEP Flaps
10/08/2022
Episode 19: Efficient DIEP Flaps
DIEP flaps are a type of breast reconstruction using a patient’s own tissue to reconstruct breasts after mastectomy for those affected by breast cancer. DIEP stands for deep inferior epigastric perforators. Epigastric refers to the abdominal area. The underlying tissue and perforators (blood vessels) are disconnected by the microsurgeon from the abdominal area and transplanted to the breast area to create soft, warm, tissue much like the breasts removed during mastectomy. To do an efficient DIEP flap requires years of training, skill, planning, and a team. My guest, is one of the Breast Reconstruction Team at UT – Southwestern Department of Plastic Surgery in Dallas, TX. He works with Dr. Sumeet Teotia performing state of the art autologous breast reconstruction in the Dallas/Fort Worth area in Texas. In our discussion we reference the paper he authored with Dr. Teotia titled, Our goal for the conversation in this episode of the is to inform and educate patients about the value of a team approach and to consider questions to ask at their own surgical consult for breast reconstruction.
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Episode 18: Medical Tattoos for Breast Cancer Patients
09/22/2022
Episode 18: Medical Tattoos for Breast Cancer Patients
Breast cancer patients seek information about medical tattoos for varied reasons. This can include decorative tattoos to cover scars after breast surgery or 3D nipple/areola tattoos to artistically recreate the nipple/areola area of the breast sometimes removed during surgery. I am speaking to two medical tattoo artists on this episode of the , and . Connecting these cross-continental experts and discussing their work combines out collective interest in helping those affected by breast cancer understand what medical tattoos are. Nicole and Eric explain the technical and emotional aspect of their work with patients in their tattoo studios. There can be fear associated with getting a tattoo because for many, it is their first tattoo. These two well trained, experienced medical tattooists work with a variety of “canvases.” They must consider radiated skin, skin that is healing, age, pigmentation, and other factors. One of the best resources to view a medical tattoo artist’s work is their Instagram accounts. You can find Nicole’s account at . Eric’s Instagram account is at . They show work with a variety of clients and show fresh work, second sessions, and final work so you can see the progression of the process.
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Episode 17: Dense Breasts
09/07/2022
Episode 17: Dense Breasts
Have you ever been told you have dense breasts by a clinician after a mammogram? Whether you have or not, our topic on this episode of the is focused on dense breasts. My guest is a patient advocate who carries this message to many after her own diagnosis. shares the story of her diagnosis and why her tag line, “Your Breast Density Matters” has become a call to action for patients and clinicians alike. Patient advocacy is often born out of a diagnosis. What one experiences upon hearing you have breast cancer, often becomes a catalyst for change. Siobhán is beating the drum for dense breast awareness. Her call to action is early detection, regular self-breast exams, and being aware that dense breasts can potentially interfere with breast screening and what can be seen on mammograms. She discusses the various levels of breast density. Do check out her request form on her website, Siobhán and I dedicate this podcast to one of our own, Leigh Pate, who we lost in June of 2022 to cancer. Yes, Siobhán , we are standing on the shoulders of giants. Before her passing, I recorded an interview with her on the Lobular Breast Cancer you can listen to here: .
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Episode 16: Defining Nerve Preservation and Nerve Reconstruction
08/24/2022
Episode 16: Defining Nerve Preservation and Nerve Reconstruction
Have you ever been overwhelmed as a breast cancer patient with terms pertaining to treatment and surgical options? Our topic today is breast sensation. Sensation in the breasts is vital for sexual health, as well as protection and safety for feeling heat. In this episode of the we are going to focus on two terms regarding breast sensation for those facing mastectomy: nerve preservation and nerve reconstruction. What is the difference between the two terms? When can these procedures be performed and my whom? Does every patient have access to these two types of nerve sensation surgery? My guests today are two leaders in the field of nerve preservation and nerve reconstruction. , is a dual trained breast surgeon and plastic surgeon practicing in San Francisco, California. She was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of thirty-seven choosing to undergo a lumpectomy instead of a mastectomy because of great concern with being left numb. , is a microsurgeon who performs breast reconstruction focusing on autologous tissue reconstruction, using the patient’s own tissue. He is the president of in San Antonio and Founder of the free breast cancer app, . and have presented at webinars and conferences training colleagues globally on the techniques of nerve perseveration and nerve reconstruction surgery.
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Episode 15: Kili Medical Drain Carrier
08/10/2022
Episode 15: Kili Medical Drain Carrier
Surgical drains after breast surgery of any kind can present challenges for patients in terms of how to wear them under clothing, showering with surgical drains, and managing the tubing so it does not get caught on something and then pulling on the place of attachement to the patients body where the drains have a stitch to keep them in place. In the latest episode of the I interview the CEO and developer of the designed them with patients in mind after having #cancer four times herself and dealing with surgical drains in hospital. The lightweight drain carrier can be worn in the shower. Drain bulbs and the tubing can be tucked into the zippered pockets keeping them secure. Cinde shares the inspirational story of helping in Tanzania developing women entrepreneurs making beautiful cloth aprons that can also be used post-surgery. This is community and how the name Kili Drains got its name.
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Episode 14: Exercise Oncology at Maple Tree Cancer Alliance
07/27/2022
Episode 14: Exercise Oncology at Maple Tree Cancer Alliance
Benefits of exercise for those who are newly diagnosed, or in recovery and survivorship from cancer treatment is our topic on this episode of the . My guests, from the discuss the many benefits and program for exercise oncology developed by Dr. Wonders for Maple Tree. is the Founder and CEO of Maple Tree Cancer Alliance. This nonprofit organization provides free exercise training to thousands of cancer survivors across the globe in clinical settings. Karen utilized her years of education, research, training, and observing cancer patients who benefitted from exercise and shares evidence-based information and studies demonstrating the many benefits of exercise oncology. is the Chief Medical Officer of Maple Tree. He also hosts on his dedicated YouTube channel. An accomplished breast surgeon and past president of the , he provides the medical expertise and research so essential to the Maple Tree Cancer Alliance mission.
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Episode 13: So You Are Thinking of Becoming A Patient Advocate?
07/13/2022
Episode 13: So You Are Thinking of Becoming A Patient Advocate?
There are thousands of people diagnosed with breast cancer every year. Some have a great desire to stay connected to a community they really never thought or wanted to be part of. But so often, friends are made, bonds are formed and there is a feeling of wanting to give back. The world of patient advocacy is broad. You can take a deep dive and spend a lot of time or choose to be a patient advocate in small ways. We guide you through this thought process on this episode of the . My two guests know a lot about the world of patient advocacy. and have been with the for a number of years. Through their advocacy work they have met other individuals and organizations that have broadened their network and ability to help others in the breast cancer and cancer community. Both survivors, they know first-hand the value of patient advocacy. We speak about their firsthand experiences. We share the following resources for others who may be interested in in exploring the possibility of participating as a patient advocate. There is also a link to apply for the Alamo Advocate Program Scholarship AACR: Alamo Advocate Program Scholarship: National Breast Cancer Coalition: San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium:
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Episode 12: Shared Decision-Making in Digital Health Apps
06/15/2022
Episode 12: Shared Decision-Making in Digital Health Apps
When you are making a healthcare decision the words shared decision-making are valuable. Understanding the term shared decision-making and putting it into practice can present challenges for those who are not aware of the phrase. It can be an effective tool and method of communication in healthcare decisions. Shared decision making is when the patient and their healthcare team work as collaborative partners in determining the best care for the patient based on the patients’ personal preferences, lifestyle, support, and values. On this episode of the I invite two guests who have developed digital healthcare apps specifically focused on the shared decision-making concept and practice. Both of my guests are recognized internationally for work in their respective fields. is the of Ayogo Health, a Canadian Healthcare Technology company based in Vancouver, British Columbia. , is a recognized expert in breast cancer reconstruction and the Founder of the Breast Advocate® app. He is the President of in San Antonio, Texas. Michael recognizes the complexities of human beings. The inspiration for his company, Ayogo, respects this complexity valuing the full participation of patients. Asymmetry can occur between patients and physicians when the process of shared decision-making takes place. This all takes time, reflection, and learning. His app, based on the shared decision-making model, allows patients the ability to invest in all three. Ayogo has twice been named on of the most innovative mobile health companies in the world and is consistently recognized by the industry as standard-setting for quality and innovation. Similarly, Dr. C’s app guides a breast cancer patient from diagnosis through to the decisional process of surgical treatment. Co-created by patient advocates, healthcare professionals and specialists who treat breast cancer patients, the Breast Advocate® app is designed as a customizable shared decision-making tool to give patients the ability to understand what their full range of options are. Dr. Chrysopoulo will be presenting his work at the eleventh session of the in Katowice, Poland in June of 2022. He will meet with Mayors from around the world discussing sustainable solutions to the challenges in tackling breast cancer, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic. You can learn more about Michael’s work at the . Learn more about Dr. Minas Chrysopoulo’s work at website. Both apps are available through the app store.
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Episode 11: Patient Advocacy: Global Connections in Breast Reconstruction
06/01/2022
Episode 11: Patient Advocacy: Global Connections in Breast Reconstruction
When you think about how you became an informed patient regarding breast reconstruction, was it by talking to other patients or through a consult with your plastic reconstructive surgeon? In this episode of the , the discussion with two patient advocates and two internationally recognized microsurgeons reveals the power of global connections in breast reconstruction for patients and the importance of curating content based on best evidence and supportive patient care. My guests, , , and explain how we have all become connected through social media. The information we have shared has become the driving factor behind our passion to educate those affected by breast cancer on a global scale, sharing information we each gain from listening to patients and finding resources and answers to their questions about breast reconstruction and the process of making a decision about what type of reconstruction to have, including no reconstruction or aesthetic flat closure.
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