Symptoms Spotlight: Insomnia with Abigail Johnston and Melanie Sisk

In this  short episode, hosts Abigail Johnston and Melanie Sisk dive deep into one of the most challenging symptoms cancer patients face: insomnia. Both hosts share their personal struggles with sleep disruption following their cancer diagnoses and explore how the cancer experience—combined with treatment side effects and life changes like menopause—can profoundly impact rest.Abigail and Melanie discuss practical strategies they've discovered for better sleep, from creating the ideal bedroom environment to establishing consistent bedtime routines. They emphasize that sleep isn't just something to push through—it's an essential part of treatment and stress management.The conversation covers a range of solutions including medication options, natural remedies like melatonin and lavender, the role of medical cannabis and hemp products, and how to work with healthcare providers to find what works best for you. They also discuss the importance of adjusting medication timing and consulting specialists beyond oncology, such as palliative care doctors and cannabis nurses.Most importantly, Abigail and Melanie remind listeners that finding the right sleep solution is highly individual, requires patience and experimentation, and is an ongoing conversation as treatment plans evolve. If you're struggling with insomnia during cancer treatment, this episode offers both validation and practical guidance.Resources mentioned: Melatonin: https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements-melatonin/art-20363071Medical Cannabis: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/consumer-health/in-depth/medical-marijuana/art-20137855Cannabis Nurse Association: https://cannabisnurses.org/Hemp: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7891210/Thanks for listening. If you enjoyed the episode, subscribe and leave a review — it really helps. Follow us on social media @livefromstage4 and visit our website at www.livefromstage4.org for show notes and links. Your support helps us continue to share important stories and advocate for those living with metastatic breast cancer.Until next time, take care and keep pushing for progress.