PEP Talks with Moffitt

At Moffitt, we often tell the stories of our patients—but behind every patient experience is someone who shows up each day with compassion, purpose, and heart. So… who are the people in your neighborhood? The teammate down the hall who always goes the extra mile. The quiet hero working behind the scenes. The one whose story has shaped the way they care for others. In this new series, we’re turning the spotlight inward—sharing the stories, the “why,” and the heart of the people who make Moffitt what it is. _________________________________________________________________________ Before we introduce you to the people in our neighborhood, we wanted to start somewhere special. At Moffitt, we have a Gratitude Wall—a place where patients and families share messages about the team members who made a difference in their journey. In this episode, you’re going to hear those words… read by the very people they were written about. These aren’t just thank-you notes. They’re moments of connection, compassion, and care—seen through the eyes of the people we serve. So as you listen, we invite you to hear not just what was done… but the heart behind it. Because this is who the people in our neighborhood truly are.

Moffitt’s International Patient Services team is an incredible group of team members who walk alongside patients and families coming from all over the world in search of hope and healing. This episode goes beyond coordination and logistics. It’s about what happens when someone leaves behind everything familiar: home, language and culture, to face one of the hardest seasons of their life. You’ll hear how this team becomes more than a service… they become connection, comfort, and family. And you’ll hear from Charlie, a patient, and our host,  whose journey began with a call from Honduras and led him here. This is a story about breaking down barriers to access, but even more than that, it’s a story about compassion, connection, and making sure "no one walks this journey alone.” What you'll learn in this podcast: Patient access is more than getting in the door, it’s guiding patients through every step of their journey. Language support isn’t just about translation, it’s about understanding culture, emotion, and fear. When patients feel seen, heard and understood, fear begins to turn into trust. For international patients, care goes beyond medicine, it includes navigation, advocacy, and human connection. Sometimes the most powerful thing we can offer is simply to listen. Healing happens not just through treatment, but through connection. A Special Series from PEP Talks Beyond the Barriers - Patient Access at Moffitt  Beyond the Barriers is a Pep Talks series exploring what Patient Access really means at Moffitt Cancer Center. Access at Moffitt isn’t just about opening doors; it’s about removing barriers. Whether those barriers are language, disability, housing insecurity, financial hardship, religious needs, or something invisible beneath the surface, we believe every patient deserves the same level of care, dignity and hope. In this series, you’ll hear from the people working behind the scenes and at the bedside to ensure that no matter what challenges a patient carries with them, they receive care that is equitable, compassionate and deeply human. Because at Moffitt, one person can make a difference, and access means everyone belongs here.

For more than 22 years, Prado Antolino, Director of Language and Communication Access at Moffitt, and her team have worked to ensure that patients who face language barriers, whether they speak Spanish, an indigenous dialect, or a language spoken by only a few thousand people in the world, are not just translated but truly understood. This conversation goes beyond interpreters and legal requirements. It’s about heart. It’s about dignity. It’s about the moment a patient hears their own language spoken in the room and sits up with hope. Because communication isn’t just clinical, sometimes, it’s therapeutic. And sometimes, it’s life-saving. A Special Series from PEP Talks Beyond the Barriers - Patient Access at Moffitt  Beyond the Barriers is a Pep Talks series exploring what Patient Access really means at Moffitt Cancer Center. Access at Moffitt isn’t just about opening doors; it’s about removing barriers. Whether those barriers are language, disability, housing insecurity, financial hardship, religious needs, or something invisible beneath the surface, we believe every patient deserves the same level of care, dignity and hope. In this series, you’ll hear from the people working behind the scenes and at the bedside to ensure that no matter what challenges a patient carries with them, they receive care that is equitable, compassionate and deeply human. Because at Moffitt, one person can make a difference, and access means everyone belongs here.

This episode was the very first Pep Talks story recorded nearly five years ago and was originally shared only with our internal team members. As we look back on the heart of this podcast—stories of connection, compassion, and intentional care—we felt it was time to share Michelle’s story more broadly. Her experience reminds us that the fundamentals of patient experience never change: listening, presence, kindness, and hope. These are as important now as they were then, and her story continues to reflect the promise we strive to live every day.

In this special Best of 2025 episode, we revisit some of the most meaningful stories shared on Pep Talks over the past year. From patients and caregivers to team members and advocates, these voices remind us that healing happens in many forms — through presence, compassion, listening, and small moments that leave a lasting impact. Together, these stories reflect the heart of care, the power of human connection, and why patient experience matters — every day, in every role.

In this week’s episode, we sit down with Anne Klein, a pancreatic cancer survivor whose journey reminds us just how powerful human connection can be in the midst of medical crisis. Anne walks us through the whirlwind of her diagnosis, the long days of testing and treatment, and the unexpected moments of compassion that carried her through — from a nurse practitioner who stopped to check on her heart, to a musician who played her into peace, to a team member who made sure she didn’t ring the bell alone. Her story is tender, honest, and full of the quiet heroism we see every day at Moffitt. It’s a reminder of how much it matters to notice people, to look them in the eye, and to bring your best self even on the hard days. Anne shows us that these small moments of care aren’t small at all — they’re life-changing. Let’s step into her story together.

In this heartfelt episode of PEPtalks, we sit down with Chaplain Jason Filippini from Moffitt Cancer Center to explore what it truly means to bring hope, humanity, and presence into the most difficult moments of a patient’s journey. With over eight years of experience serving in Moffitt’s ICU and PCU, Jason shares powerful stories of compassion—moments where “healing” takes on a deeper meaning beyond physical cure. From advocating for a dying young patient to receive her college diploma, to finding sacredness in something as simple as a cold Pepsi or a final walk in the sunshine, Jason reminds us that small acts of listening can change everything. Through his humility, humor, and honesty, we’re invited to see healthcare as more than a profession—it’s a ministry of presence, empathy, and intentional care.

Meet Margaret Gosira Since 2001, Margaret has brought heart, humor, and dedication to Moffitt Cancer Center. Her smile lights up every room, and her commitment to patients and coworkers makes her a true team hero. From training new staff to celebrating her U.S. citizenship with her Moffitt family—Margaret reminds us what it means to care. #TeamMoffitt #EmployeeSpotlight #HealthcareHeroes #WhoAreThePeopleInYourNeighborhood

In this inspiring episode of PEP Talks, we sit down with Joshua Rivera — a sarcoma survivor, Moffitt Cancer Center team member, and passionate advocate for patients everywhere. Joshua shares his incredible journey from diagnosis at age 27 to becoming a leader, mentor, and voice for change. From founding roles in the Adolescent and Young Adult (AYA) program to cycling hundreds of miles for cancer advocacy, Joshua’s story is one of resilience, purpose, and unwavering commitment to the mission of curing cancer. Tune in for a conversation filled with hope, practical wisdom, and a powerful reminder that every role in healthcare matters.

Navigating cancer is never easy—especially without the right information and support. When Kerrijo first came to Moffitt, her care team immediately recognized her deep need for knowledge. Just as importantly, they understood that her family needed to be part of the journey too. At Moffitt, our patient-and-family-centered care ensures that both patients and their loved ones receive timely, accurate information and are invited to actively participate in care and decision-making. Because healing is stronger when no one walks the path alone. 🎙️What You'll Learn From Kerrijo How Kerrijo’s cancer journey began with misdiagnoses and uncertainty, and the powerful moment she received her diagnosis — alone. The impact of compassionate communication from Dr. Saeed and the staff, and how Moffit's team made space for her family to be informed and involved.  Kerrijo's advice to healthcare providers: empathy, small conversations, and treating people like family matter deeply. The impact of a compassionate physician who finally listened and took action, and why empathy and inclusion make all the difference for patients. 🧡 The Heart of the Story Small acts—like asking if a caregiver has questions—can leave a lifelong impact. Moffitt’s family-centered approach transforms the cancer experience by keeping support systems informed and involved. Clear communication, empathy, and proactive education build trust and reduce fear. The lasting power of including caregivers in care—because “they don’t have cancer, but they have cancer.” Access the show transcript, notes, tools, and resources at: https://www.moffitt.org/patient-family/pep-talks/kerrijo/

Caught in a Florida downpour, two nurse navigators found more than just shelter—they found a reminder of what makes Moffitt special.After a long day in the Neuro-oncology and GYN clinics, Ralene Simpkins and Elvy Mendez were bracing for a soggy sprint to their cars when an unexpected act of kindness changed everything. A fellow Moffitt team member—someone they didn’t even know—offered them a ride, turning a stormy evening into a heartwarming moment of connection. 🎧 Tune in to hear Ralene and Elvy share how that simple gesture reaffirmed their sense of belonging, and why Moffitt truly feels like home.

This month, we are thrilled to celebrate a truly special milestone—the 20th anniversary of the Patient and Family Advisory Council (PFAC). To mark this occasion, we are honored to welcome a very special guest, Judge Mark Pizzo, one of the original members of PFAC. Judge Pizzo will share his remarkable journey, from his distinguished career in law to his family's profound connection with Moffitt. His invaluable contributions have shaped the culture of Moffitt in countless ways through his dedicated role on PFAC. Join us as we reflect on the past two decades and look forward to the future with gratitude and hope.

In this episode, Joel passionately underscores the importance of learning about and referring patients to the available resources that can profoundly benefit them, just as they did for him. Joel's story is a powerful reminder that when we come together as a team to provide the right support tailored to each patient's specific needs, it can be life-sustaining. In Joel's own words, it was a gamechanger! Let's listen closely and take Joel's experience to heart, ensuring that every patient receives the support they need to thrive.

In this episode you will hear from Greg Feldman, one of our pancreatic cancer survivors, and his medical provider, Physician Assistant Tiffany Valone.  Greg and Tiffany share with us their insights into how their 9-year relationship, built on trust, care and respect, provided the support he needed to sustain him throughout his long cancer journey at Moffitt.

In this episode you will hear from Alexander Dojcinovski, a supervisor in our experimental cell therapy department. He was a patient here before he was a team member, having endured a long and arduous treatment regimen for stage 4 Hodgkin’s lymphoma. As he finished his treatment and was thinking of his future, he was so impacted and inspired by the care he received at Moffitt that he knew he wanted to be part of our mission, bringing hope to patients.

Randy Isaacson shares how his wife Lynn’s 162-day journey with Acute Myeloid Leukemia did not define their beautiful 34 years together even though she died of the disease at 55 years old. He tells us how important the nurses were to creating comfort for Lynn and himself during their long stays in the hospital and how he now volunteers in multiple ways at Moffitt, for Lynn.

This podcast highlights the work of Lloyd Goldstein, a Certified Music Practitioner in our Arts in Medicine Program. Lloyd shares his journey from a professional base violin player in the Florida Orchestra to a Moffitt volunteer, to one of our Artists in Residence. Through being present and meeting patients where they are, Lloyd uses his music to help patients transcend their pain and suffering, give their families comfort and a sense of peace, and in the process builds a bridge between hearts.

At just 18 years old, while most young adults were starting college and navigating the challenges of young adulthood, Moffitt team member, Jackie Beaushaw was diagnosed with peritoneal mesothelioma and undergoing cancer treatment at Moffitt. For someone so young, this experience could have been incredibly frightening, isolating, and overwhelming. And it was. But Jackie’s journey took a pivotal turn when she came across a flyer for the Adolescent and Young Adult (AYA) program at Moffitt.

This past year, we've had the privilege of hearing our patients share their heartfelt stories, showcasing incredible courage and resilience during challenging times. We're deeply inspired by the respect, care, and compassion demonstrated by our team members—it's often the smallest acts that make the most significant difference in the lives of our patients and their families. We invite you to take a moment to glimpse these impactful stories, reflecting the true essence of our Promise and the care we strive to provide every day.

In this episode Rick Salomone shares with us how he had some critical decisions to make concerning his care, and how grateful he was for the support and respect of his Moffitt team that empowered him to choose a treatment path that aligned with his beliefs, priorities and lifestyle.

In this episode you hear from Jasmine Cherry, one of our Moffitt team members. After seeing her grandparents both treated at Moffitt, she was excited to get her dream job at age 24 working in the cell therapy lab. Little did she know that just one year later, she would be diagnosed with leukemia and need those very same cell therapies to survive. She shares with us how her experience has deepened her connection and commitment to excellence in her work.

In this podcast, you will hear from Heidi Bragg, who is a survivor of 3 different types of cancer, including a cardiac sarcoma that brought her to Moffitt. For Heidi, the combination of the clinical expertise, partnership with her treatment team, inclusion of her family, and being cared for as a human being – created a very strong bond that fortified her for the fight of her life. Heidi has her own podcast about her journey with cancer - you can find it at https://www.lifecanceretc.com/.

For Patient Experience Week, some of Moffitt Cancer Center’s leaders share their passion for patient care and gratitude for our dedicated staff. Moffitt’s heart begins and ends with the patients and that is the unifying force that guides all team members. It’s this definitive culture, characterized by compassion, empathy, and patient-centered care, that makes Moffitt a truly special place for both patients and staff alike.

Central to Moffitt Cancer Center's Promise is that we provide compassionate care by seeing, hearing, and supporting our patients and families. Amy Bondon was one of our patients who had cervical cancer followed by severe complications. Amy was a healthy, independent woman who suddenly found herself alone and frightened in uncertain circumstances. It was the kindness shown by Moffitt team members who saw her fear, heard her concerns, and supported her that allowed her to successfully traverse her cancer journey. This led to Amy becoming a patient advisor in our Patient and Family Advisory Program to help others in need with the same kindness and support she received.

Patti Halula is one of our Moffitt patients who is living with metastatic breast cancer. She is joined by retired Moffitt licensed clinical social worker Chris Healy. Patti and Chris talk about how the support of social work and Chris’ ability to see Patti’s needs beyond the cancer treatment itself allowed Patti to live a full life WITH cancer-making all the difference in the life she leads today versus the life she thought she would have.

A cancer diagnosis and its treatment can be an overwhelming experience for any person. Hugh Hedley shares how team members kept showing up with kindness, care, positive attitudes and encouragement, helping him feel supported and empowered.

We see our patients and their family members during times of high stress; especially when fear and the sense of being out of control overwhelms them. Robin Gordon, a Moffitt breast cancer patient and patient advisor, shares how her Moffitt physician was able to respond to her with grace and respect during one such moment.

Mary Sansone learned that sometimes, to the patient, facing cancer is not the only challenge. With humor and humility, Mary takes us through her experience facing Acute Myeloid Leukemia while just off the heels of reaching sobriety from addiction for the second time. The physical and emotional worries she carried into her cancer treatment were eased by Moffit team members who showed up for her; seeing her as a whole person, worthy of dignity, respect, and compassionate care.

Julia was living in the United States with her husband and her family, but the rest of her extended family was still living in Ukraine when the country was invaded by Russia. After a lengthy and complex journey to get her parents out of Ukraine to join them in the United States, Julia’s father was diagnosed with advanced stage lung cancer and started his treatment at Moffitt Cancer Center. Julia and her father were so grateful and appreciative for the care and support they received from Moffitt team members.

Getting a cancer diagnosis is overwhelming not only for the patient but for their family as well. We might assume that the cancer caregiver is the one who can be fully present and take in all the information to help and support the patient. But, as you will hear from Jason, that is not always the case…at least not at first.

Charlie is a former diplomat and current patient advisor at Moffitt Cancer Center. His journey starts with a small cell lung cancer diagnosis while living in Honduras. Feeling like he didn’t have a voice in his care, Charlie transferred to Moffitt and found himself in an environment where he felt empowered, hopeful and courageous.