PODCAST · society
Only 4 Words
by Karen Waddington with Melanie Williams
An honest and sometimes irreverent look at breast cancer. Hopefully, we can make you laugh, we might make you cry, but we will touch your heart.
Episodes
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Cancer Day at the Capital 2026 Recap
Join Karen and Melanie as Melanie discusses her recent health updates and the need for a treatment change. They discuss the importance of advocacy in cancer treatment and legislative efforts is highlighted. Karen shares cancer statistics and the need for communitysupport and awareness. Biomarker...
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Karen and Melanie talk with ACS Cancer Action Network's Anika Khan and Audrey Miller Garcia
In this episode of the Only 4 Words podcast, Karenand Melanie welcome guests Anika Khan and Audrey Miller Garcia from the American Cancer Society's Cancer Action Network. They discuss the current legislative landscape affecting cancer patients, the challenges posed by budgetconstraints, and the...
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A New Year's Message from Karen and Melanie
Happy New Year! Thank you to everyone who has supported us, listened, shared and attended our in person gatherings. We appreciate each and every one of you. Here's to a healthy, happy 2026 for all of us!
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A Christmas Message from Karen and Melanie
From both of us and from the bottom of our hearts, we wish you a very Merry Christmas, good health and a an amazing 2026 ahead. Thank you for listening, for supporting us and walking along side us for this journey. We will be back in January with all new episodes.
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Our Interview with Psycho-Oncology Consultant Cobie Whitten
In this episode of the Only 4 Words Podcast, hosts KarenWaddington and Melanie engage in a heartfelt conversation with Cobie Whitten, an Psyco-Oncology Consultant. Cobie shares her extensive background in psycho-oncology anddiscusses the profound impact of cancer on individuals and their…
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A Few of Our Favorite Things
In this episode of the Only Four Words podcast, Karen andMelanie reflect on their weekends and share personal stories about their experiences with cancer. They discuss their favorite things that can provide comfort and support to those undergoing treatment, including knitted knockersand local...
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Health Updates from Karen and Karen Celebrates 5 Years Cancer Free
In this conversation, Karen Waddington shares her experienceof receiving unexpected medical news regarding a mass on her uterus. She emphasizes the importance of compassionate communication from her doctor, who took the time to discuss the results with her personally, demonstrating empathyand...
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A Thanksgiving Message from Karen and Melanie
We just want to take a moment to thank each and every one of you for coming along on this journey with us. We are so grateful for you, our listeners, for those that have come on the podcast, and for those that show up at our in person gatherings and share their stories. Happy Thanksgiving! Karen...
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Community and Thanksgiving Traditions
In this episode, Karen and Melanie reflect on theirweekends, sharing personal stories about family gatherings and reconnecting with old friends. They delve into Thanksgiving traditions, discussing how these have evolved over the years, especially in light of personal losses andchanges. The...
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Gratitude Part 2
Laughter is the best medicine. In this episode, Karen and Melanie explore the themes oflaughter, gratitude, and the importance of community support. They share personal stories about comedy shows, the healing power of laughter, and the significance of expressing gratitude in various forms. The...
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Karen and Melanie talk Gratitude
In this episode, Karen and Melanie kick off a month-long series on gratitude, sharing personal stories, reflections oncommunity support, and the importance of expressing gratitude in everyday life. They discuss their weekend experiences, the joy of in-person gatherings, and the significance of...
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Karen & Melanie talk Gamma Knife procedures and Making Strides Events
In this episode of the Only 4 Words podcast, Karen and Melanie discuss a range of topics including personal healthupdates, the impact of Gamma Knife treatment, and the importance of clinical trials. Melanie shares her experiences with cancer treatments and the significance of monitoring health...
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Part 2 of our conversation with Breast Cancer Survivor Sandee Mills
Check out Part 2 of our conversation with Sandee Mills. In this episode of the Only 4 Words podcast, Karen, Melanie, and Sandee discuss the genetic and familial aspects of breast cancer, sharing personal stories and insights. Sandee talks about her family's history with breast cancer, the genetic...
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Our chat with Sarah Brown, Metastatic Breast Cancer Survivor
In this episode of Only 4 Words, Karen and Melanie talk with Sarah Brown, a metastatic breast cancer patient, about living with MBC, the power of community, and the meaning of Metastatic Breast Cancer Day. Sarah shares her journey, from treatment to hair loss and self-advocacy, reminding us that...
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In Person Gatherings and Origins of Breast Cancer Awareness Month
"Please follow this show on Spotify. It really helps!" In this episode of the Only 4 Words podcast, hosts Karen andMelanie discuss the origins and impact of Breast Cancer Awareness Month (BCAM). They share personal stories and insights from their recent in-person gathering, highlighting the...
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Raising Hope: The Impact of Community Support in Cancer
In this episode of the Only 4 Words Podcast, hosts Karen and Melanie discuss their personal experiences with cancer, theimportance of self-advocacy, the impact of community gatherings, and the significance of ongoing research and funding for cancer treatment. The episode also highlights a recent...
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Seattle Hope Gala Recap and New Whole Body MRI's
In this episode of the Only Four Words podcast, hosts KarenWaddington and Melanie share their experiences attending the Seattle Hope Gala, a major fundraiser for the American Cancer Society. They discuss the emotional impact of the event, the generosity of the attendees, and the importance of...
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Interview with Nutritionist Alie Purcell
In this episode of the Only Four Words Podcast, Karen and Melanie are joined by Alie Purcell, a nutritionist from APNutrition, to discuss the importance of nutrition in cancer prevention and treatment. Alie shares her journey into the field of nutrition, the evolving educational requirements for...
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Updates and Book Recomendations
Join Melanie and Karen as they navigate the ups and downs of life with chronic illness. From medical updates to personal anecdotes, this episode is a testament to strength and positivity. They also share their love for books and how reading has been a source of comfort and escape.
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Brows, Nails, Toes and Therapy
In this heartfelt episode of the "Only Four Words" podcast, hosts Karen and Melanie are joined by Nerisa McQueen to discuss the emotional journey of life after cancer treatment. They explore the challenges of finding a "new normal," the importance of community support, and the mental health…
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Interview with 2 X Cancer Survivor Sandee Mills
In this episode, hosts Karen and Melanie engage with Sandee Mills, who shares her personal journey with breast cancer, including her initial diagnosis, family history, treatmentdecisions, and the impact of advancements in cancer detection. The conversation explores the emotional and physical...
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Lake Days, Vacations, Biopsies and In Person Gatherings
In this episode of the Only For Words podcast, hosts Karen and Melanie share personal updates, including their experiences with family gatherings and vacations. They discuss the importance of community support in the cancer journey, particularly through in-person gatherings. Theconversation…
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Summer Skin Care: Myths vs. Facts
Think all sunscreens are created equal? Think again—Karen and Melanie discuss it all in this can't-miss episode. They break down the differences between mineral and chemical sunscreens, decode SPF numbers, and explain why reapplication isn’t optional. Plus, they share personal stories and skin…
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Updates from Melanie, our latest in-person wrap up and much more
In this episode of the Only For Words podcast, hosts Melanieand Karen explore the significance of maintaining normalcy while facing health challenges. Through personal anecdotes and practical advice, they discuss the emotional and financial aspects of long-term treatments, the importance of...
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Empowering Cancer Survivorship: Insights from the Conference
Join hosts Karen and Melanie as they welcome NerissaMcQueen to discuss the transformative experience of the Cancer Survivors Month conference. This episode delves into the empowering message that survivorship begins at diagnosis, explores the latest advancements in cancer treatment, and…
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Navigating Self-Care and The Spoon Theory: Managing Energy and Life
In this episode, Karen and Melanie discuss the importance ofself-care, particularly for women navigating hormonal changes and health challenges. They share personal experiences, emphasizing the need for open conversations about women's health issues, including menopause and intimacy. The…
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In Person Gathering wrapup and Relay For Life
Join Karen and Melanie and they wrap up their 3rd in person gathering, and Melanie talks about an Introvert's perspective. Melanie also shares more information about the process of turning her own blood into eye drops. It's a fascinating process called Protein Rich Plasma (PRP). Karen and Melanie...
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Eye drops from Melanie's blood, Relay For Life, and more
Karen and Melanie discuss their personal experiences with health challenges, the importance of community support, and the emotional impact of participating in Relay for Life. They share insights on advancements in cancer research and the significance of sharing personal stories to inspire hope in...
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Depo Provera: Risk vs. Reward?
Join Karen and Melanie as they discuss Depro Provera and hormonal birth control in depth. Karen's research provided some surprising results and Karen and Melanie talk about their own experiences with Depo Provera.
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In Person Meetings and Melanie's Mottos for Living Life
Karen and Melanie talk about the 2nd in person meeting, Melanie speaking at Lewis County Relay For Life and her Mottos for living life. Our next in person meeting will be June 8th at 2:00pm at Worthy Coffee in Roy, Wa.
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Scans, Dr's appointments and taking advantage of Every Day
Join Karen and Melanie as they talk scans (part 2) Dr's appoiontments and possible new treatments. Melanie talks about the Mother's Day holiday and remembering to live each day and make memories. Next week Karen and Melanie talk about the second in person meeting and who they met. Our next in...
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Melanie Takes a Road Trip
Join Melanie and her husband Kyle from the road as they talk road trips, living life to the fullest and how they cope with scaniety.
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Types of Surgery, Remission Terminology and Immunotherapy
Join Karen and Melanie as they discuss types of breast cancer surgery, remission terminology and the latest reports on Immunotherapy. Like and follow us @only4wordspodcast Email us at: [email protected] In person meetup Our next in person get together will be at Worthy Coffee in Roy, Wa at...
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Interview with Nerisa McQueen
Join Karen and Melanie for an episode filled with laughter and sisterhood as they interview breast cancer survivor Nerisa McQueen. Nerisa is a triple negative breast cancer survivor and tells about her journey as well as what promted her to create a crowd funded venture called Happy Mail. To date...
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Advancements in Breast Cancer Research and Treatments
In this episode of Only 4 Words, hosts Karen and Melanie delve into recent advancements in breast cancer detection and treatment. They explore the role of AI in predicting breast cancer risks, the importance of early detection , and the impact of healthcare funding cuts on access to necessary...
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Our very first in person gathering
Join us as we talk about our very first Only 4 Words in person meeting. We chatted with some amazing people about their stories and it was a wonderful afternoon. Our next in person gathering will be: May 18th, 2025 2:00pm Worthy Coffee No need to RSVP, just show up. Thank you to everyone who…
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What to pack in your chemo bag (and what not to pack)
Join Karen and Melanie as they talk about what to expect before during and after chemo, what to pack in your chemo bag (and what not to pack).
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Cancer 2.0, Part 3
This is our final episode in this series. Recorded from the road. So, apologies for any technical difficulties. Join Karen and Melanie as they talk about some of the things that no one shares when you when you have cancer and are going through chemo. From odd side effects to energy, hair loss and...
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Cancer 2.0 Part 2
If you haven't had a chance to check out Part 1, go there first. Part 2 picked up where Part 1 ended. We talk about the things that we have experienced during and after treatment that no one tells you about. Did you know that Taxol might make your nails fall off. We tell you how we saved our…
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Cancer 2.0, Part 1
Join Karen and Melanie as they discuss things that happened to them during their breast cancer journey that no one warned them about. From Melanie's Afib and getting the paddles while she was awake to strategies to keep their nails from falling off, there is a ton of info. This is a jam packed…
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A Few of Our Favorite Things
Join Karen and Melanie as they highlight some of their favorite things they have found during their breast cancer journey. Some have even been highlighted in previous podcast episodes. They also talk books and the escape they can bring during treatment and beyond. Orchard House Spa...
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Interview with Corinn Wohl
Join Karen and Melanie as they chat with fellow Relayer and breast cancer survivor Corinn Wohl. Find out about discovering a lump, mastectomy, the BRCA gene mutation, her daughter's brave decision and how she ended up passionate about volunteering for Relay For Life and the American Cancer Society.
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Updates on Metastatic Cancer, New Warnings on Alcohol and Melanie's latest Dr. Visit
Join Karen and Melanie as they look at new research on metastatic cancer, new warnings on alcohol and talk about the Rutgers Clinical Trial that is still going on. Melanie talks about her latest scans and gives an update also. Metastatic: Advanced, spread beyond original locationOften Stage 4…
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Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Interview with Cheri Larsen
Join Karen and Melanie as they chat with Cheri Larsen, board member for Making Strides Against Breast Cancer in Snohomish Washington. Cheri has a wonderful story and we loved chatting with her about her passion. To find out more about a Making Strides Walk in your area, go to...
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Melanie's Day at the Capital
Join Karen and Melanie as Melanie shares about her Day at the Capital. She shares about meeting with Legislators, their Aides and what she learned. Every state has a Day at the Capital like Washington State does, and volunteers from American Cancer Society and many other organizations attend so...
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We are going to Cancer Day at the Capital
Karen and Melanie are heading to the Capital for Cancer Day at the Capital. We are talking to our legislaters about biomarker testing and health equity for cancer patients. HB 1062 Biomarker testing coverage. Next episode Karen and Melanie will report back with who they talked to and what…
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How Breast Cancer is portrayed on TV
Last week, we talked about celebrities that have had breast cancer and some of the things they chose to do and not to do as they were going through treatment and surgery. This week, we are looking at TV Characters and how Breast Cancer is played out on some tv shows. Both Melanie and I found...
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Breast Cancer and Celebrities
This is the first of 2 episode about breast cancer and pop culture. We all know a celebrity that has had a very public battle with breast cancer. Celebrities have reach and they have a platform. We look at a few in this episode. Join us next week when we talk about our favorite tv shows and how...
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#2 Interview with Trish Claridge
Join us as we continue our interview with Trish. She tells a little more of her story and shares about a trip she just took with her family. Here is the scale that Trish referred to: Physical Score yourself 1-5 Emotional Score yourself 1-5 Spiritual Score yourself 1-5 Hope Score yourself 1-5 Then...
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Interview with friend and chemo buddy Becky
Join Karen and Melanie for this amazing episode with Becky. Becky tells her inspiring story about her journey with breast cancer and talks about a very special trip that her she and her family just took. Don't miss this incredible episode.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Only 4 Words have?
Only 4 Words currently has 91 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Only 4 Words about?
An honest and sometimes irreverent look at breast cancer. Hopefully, we can make you laugh, we might make you cry, but we will touch your heart.
How often does Only 4 Words release new episodes?
Only 4 Words has 91 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to Only 4 Words?
You can listen to Only 4 Words on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Only 4 Words?
Only 4 Words is created and hosted by Karen Waddington with Melanie Williams.
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