Episode 98 Don't let Cancer define you: Chief Dennis Reilly and Paul Shoemaker

In this episode of the Can Report, host Mike Goldstein, engages in a heartfelt conversation with Chief Dennis Reilly and Paul Shoemaker, both of whom have bravely navigated their journeys with cancer. They share their personal experiences, from the initial diagnosis to the emotional and physical challenges they faced. Paul recounts discovering a lump that led to his diagnosis of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, while Chief Reilly discusses his prostate cancer diagnosis and subsequent treatment. Both guests emphasize the importance of early detection, mental resilience, and the support of their families and fire service communities during their battles with cancer.The discussion also delves into the mental health aspects of dealing with cancer, highlighting the fears and uncertainties that accompany such diagnoses. Both Paul and Chief Reilly stress the significance of maintaining a positive mindset and the role of nutrition and fitness in their recovery processes. They advocate for proactive health measures within the fire service community, encouraging listeners to prioritize their health and seek help when needed. We end the episode with a message of hope and resilience, reminding everyone that while cancer is a daunting challenge, it can be faced with strength and support.Takeaways"Cancer is just a small part of my total being.""Wake up every day and tell yourself that you're going to beat it.""If you ignore it, it gets worse. If you treat it, you can come out on the other side with a strong likelihood of doing well.""You have to realize that cancer is in your body all the time.""The only thing you can control is your positive attitude.""Eat from the perimeter of the grocery store and stay out of the aisles.""You can’t replicate what you go through with cancer.""If you have cancer, it's only going to continue to get worse.""You have to be proactive about your health.""Don't just say it's nothing; find out what the problem is."Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Guests and Their Cancer Journeys01:16 Paul Shoemaker's Diagnosis and Experience04:24 Dennis Riley's Prostate Cancer Journey06:10 Coping with the News of Cancer09:13 The Emotional Impact of Diagnosis16:26 Support Systems and Community Response23:37 Navigating Healthcare and Treatment Options28:38 Dennis Reilly's Cancer Journey32:35 The Emotional Toll of Diagnosis36:03 Community Support and Positivity41:24 The Power of Nutrition and Juicing45:18 Fitness and Recovery Strategies52:01 Reflections on Healthy Living55:22 The Importance of Sleep and Wellness57:11 Understanding Cancer Risks in Firefighting01:02:03 Facing Fears: Living with Cancer01:09:26 Mental Health and Coping Strategies01:15:43 Future Endeavors and Leadership in Fire Servicehttps://chiefreilly.com/NEXT LEVEL TRAINING NETWORK-https://www.instagram.com/nextleveltrainingnetwork?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==https://www.firefightercancersupport.org/https://www.enginehousedesigns.com/https://www.thecanreportpodcast.com/https://thekitchentablefoundation.org/