Ep55: Julie McCrossin, Broadcaster & Cancer Ambassador

Today my guest is Julie McCrossin, a Broadcaster and Cancer Ambassador. In this episode, Julie reflects on her studies in arts, education and law, and experiences working in educational theatre with disadvantaged and isolated schools. Julie reflects on her role as a national radio broadcaster, that is, talking for a living, getting other people talking, and helping them to discuss a range of important and complex topics. We also chat about Julie’s experiences as a cancer patient, and how her instinctive and self-directed response to a persistent sore throat led to a visit to an Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) specialist, with diagnosis and treatment of stage four, HPV-related oropharyngeal cancer (that is, tonsils, tongue and throat) about ten years ago. Julie offers insights into the diagnosis, treatment, and recovery from cancer including the psychological impacts, side effects, and the significance of social support. We discuss the impact of human connection —with friends, family, fellow patients, and medical practitioners—and the profound human energy that’s unleashed when a few people gather for a common purpose, such as when support group members meet. Julie also shares insights into health literacy, her role as a cancer ambassador and her collaborations with medical practitioners. We explore the value of personal stories and their role in illustrating lived experiences, educating the public and improving healthcare systems. Finally, Julie offers very practical advice related to trusting your instincts, getting a second opinion, and following up with reliable information online. Julie offers comfort, optimism, hope and empathy. Links: https://www.juliemccrossin.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-mccrossin-am-28190529/ https://twitter.com/JulieMcCrossin https://www.targetingcancer.com.au/ https://trog.com.au/ https://www.cancercouncil.com.au/podcasts https://www.headandneckcancer.org.au/