8: Treat It, Beat It & Move On: Dr. April Spencer on Thriving After Breast Cancer

In this episode of SIS: Sisters In Survivorship, Caleen Allen welcomes Dr. April Spencer, nationally recognized breast surgeon, author, and advocate known as the “praying surgeon.”  With over 20 years of experience in breast oncology, Dr. Spencer blends medical expertise with faith, helping women not only treat breast cancer but also beat it and ultimately move on. She shares the philosophy behind her book Treat It, Beat It & Move On, the importance of prioritizing “best health” beyond breast health, and why survivorship is about reclaiming purpose and power. From addressing the Black breast cancer crisis to the role of faith, rest, and lifestyle changes, Dr. Spencer reminds us that healing is not just physical…it’s actually a mix of spiritual, mental, and emotional aspects, too. Don’t miss this! Tune in and share this episode with someone who needs encouragement to treat it, beat it, and move on.  ✨ Learn more: sistersnetworkinc.org  KEY POINTS  - [00:00] Introduction - [2:59] Dr. April Spencer’s 22-year journey as a breast cancer surgeon and her passion for women’s health. - [3:32] Why she embraces being called the “praying surgeon” and the role of faith in healing. - [5:07] The inspiration behind her book, Treat It, Beat It & Move On. - [7:23] Redefining survivorship through mental, physical, spiritual, and financial “best health.” - [8:50] Why self-care and rest are vital for survival. - [9:56] Reframing diagnosis: “You may have cancer, but cancer doesn’t have you.” - [12:03] The danger of rejecting full treatment plans. - [13:51] The Black breast cancer crisis with higher mortality rates - [17:01] Why genetic testing matters for young women and high-risk patients. - [21:13] Stronger than ever: Moving forward after treatment. QUOTES  “Treat It, Beat It & Move On is a book that I launched in October of last year, and it was many years in the making. ... I wanted to inspire women to be the surgeons in their life, like the sole surgeon in their life, and cut out anything or anyone that wasn't adding value.” – Dr. April Spencer “You can't take care of anyone if you are not your mental, physical, spiritual, and financial best self.” – Dr. April Spencer “My practice philosophy is led by faith but rooted in facts. What's your diagnosis? What's the treatment strategy? We're not going to deviate from the plan…” – Dr. April Spencer “Healing isn't just about your body. It's believing that you can treat it, beat it, and move on.” – Dr. April Spencer RESOURCES Dr. April Spencer Website - draprilspencer.com Website - sistersnetworkinc.org IG -  @sistersnetwork YouTube Channel - @SisInSurvivorshipPodcast