Together, We Fight

Clinical dietitian Jayla Thurman from City of Hope® Cancer Center Atlanta breaks down the top three nutrition myths cancer patients hear most often. She explains what the science really says about sugar and cancer, how to stay properly hydrated during treatment and which popular diets may actually do more harm than good. If you're looking for clear, trustworthy guidance on cancer nutrition, this episode offers practical, evidence‑based advice for patients and caregivers.

Loretta S., a wife and mother of two sons, one with special needs, became a full‑time caregiver when her husband Rob was diagnosed with cancer. In this episode, she shares the emotional toll of caregiving, the moment she realized she was losing herself and the self‑care practices that helped her regain balance. Loretta also reveals a powerful piece of advice from a stranger that changed the way her family approached cancer. This conversation offers honest, practical insight for anyone caring for a loved one through treatment.

Carl Williamson, Manager of Pastoral Care at City of Hope® Cancer Center Chicago, has spent years helping patients and families navigate the emotional and spiritual challenges of cancer. In this episode, he shares practical advice on how to support someone facing a diagnosis, including what to say, what to avoid and how to be present in a way that truly helps. Carl also reflects on the role faith can play in coping with uncertainty and how small acts of compassion can make a lasting impact. His insights come from real experiences and offer meaningful guidance for anyone walking alongside a loved one through cancer.

Karyn C. is a five‑year breast cancer survivor and proud world traveler. She and her husband spent years planning for early retirement and a life of adventure, but everything changed when she received a life‑altering diagnosis just as their journey began. In this episode, Karyn shares what it was like to face cancer at the threshold of her dream life and how she found strength, perspective and purpose in the midst of uncertainty. Her story is honest, inspiring and filled with practical insights on staying grounded and living fully, no matter where life takes you.

Jennifer Cargile is a Speech Language Pathologist and former Manager of Oncology Rehabilitation at City of Hope® Cancer Center Atlanta. In this episode, she shares the surprising benefits of working with a speech therapist during and after cancer treatment. Jennifer explains how speech therapy can support swallowing, communication, and overall quality of life and she offers practical tips that make a meaningful difference in recovery. Her insights are clear, encouraging and grounded in years of experience helping patients navigate the challenges that come with treatment.

Rudy H. is a seven‑year colon cancer survivor and a firefighter with more than 40 years of service. He's a powerful example of how early detection and following screening guidelines can save lives. In this episode, Rudy shares the impact cancer has had on the firefighting community and offers life‑saving advice that everyone should take seriously. He also reflects on the importance of speaking up, getting screened and supporting one another through difficult diagnoses. Rudy's story is honest, inspiring and a reminder of why early detection matters.

Alexandria Callahan, LCPC, BC‑DMT, GLCMA, Behavioral Health Therapist at City of Hope® Cancer Center Chicago, talks openly about the challenges many patients face with body image and intimacy after cancer treatment. She shares practical tools and strategies to help rebuild connection with yourself and with your partner. Alexandria's insights come from years of supporting patients through emotional and physical changes. Her guidance is compassionate, grounded and designed to help anyone navigating life after treatment feel more confident and understood.

Jose and Shemika have been married for 19 years and share a long history with cancer. They were each diagnosed just two years apart, forcing them to navigate life as both patient and caregiver. In this episode, they open up about the emotional challenges they faced, how they supported one another and the moments that kept them going on their hardest days. Their story is honest, vulnerable and full of insight for anyone walking through cancer with a partner. It's a reminder of the strength that comes from love, commitment and refusing to give up on each other.

Cheyloh E. and Laura G. are both mothers of six, both diagnosed with cancer and both treated at City of Hope® Cancer Center Phoenix. Cheyloh for breast cancer and Laura for ovarian cancer. Through their diagnoses, they found each other and formed a friendship that helped them navigate treatment and the emotional challenges that came with it. In this episode, they talk about how friendships change during cancer, what support can look like when life becomes overwhelming and how to find community when you need it most. Their story is honest, uplifting and full of practical insight for anyone seeking connection during a difficult time.

Elaine Smith, MS, LMFT, Manager of Behavioral Health at City of Hope® Cancer Center Atlanta, offers valuable insights on navigating the emotional and practical challenges of survivorship. She explains the phases patients often move through after treatment and shares meaningful advice on how to find and maintain joy while adjusting to life beyond a cancer diagnosis. Elaine's guidance is compassionate, grounded and designed to help survivors feel supported as they move forward.

Elaine Smith, MS, LMFT, Manager of Behavioral Health at City of Hope® Cancer Center Atlanta, shares practical tools for managing cancer‑related anxiety and staying connected to life's joys. She offers guidance on grounding techniques, emotional regulation and small daily practices that can make a meaningful difference during treatment and recovery. Elaine's approach is compassionate, accessible and rooted in years of supporting patients through the emotional challenges of cancer.

Nathan S., former Manager of Clinical Nutrition at City of Hope® Cancer Center Atlanta and a cancer survivor himself, shares insights into the most common side effects experienced by patients. He explains how he and his team worked to identify and address these symptoms, helping patients maintain strength and quality of life throughout treatment. Nathan's perspective is both professional and deeply personal, offering practical guidance and encouragement for anyone navigating the challenges of cancer care.

Jose S., a stage 3 colon cancer survivor treated at City of Hope® Cancer Center Chicago, talks about the mental strength it takes to face cancer and keep moving forward. He shares the three words of advice he received from another survivor — words that carried him through his hardest days and continue to guide him today. Jose's story is honest, motivating and a reminder that purpose can be a powerful force in healing.

Onjalai B., a breast cancer survivor who was treated at City of Hope® Phoenix, shares how she lost nearly everything: her marriage, her home; she had a miscarriage, she lost her sister, and on top of that, she was told she had cancer. Surprisingly, her story is not about loss. Listen as she shares her journey of finding her purpose and how a few small words can change everything.