CancerSurvivorMD®

In this final episode of The Essential Elements of Cancer Survivorship Care, we explore care coordination—the complex, often overwhelming task of managing life after cancer. From juggling medical appointments, work, family, and personal healing, to navigating uncertainty and shifting priorities, survivorship can feel like a full-time job.Dr. Josie van Londen, along with social worker Colleen Dwyer and survivor Brad Buchanan, share practical insights and deeply personal experiences. They discuss the importance of self-compassion, speaking up when overwhelmed, and leaning on both healthcare teams and loved ones for support. Brad’s powerful story highlights the real-world challenges of coordinating care across multiple specialists, navigating conflicting medical decisions, and accessing life-saving treatments.This episode offers validation, guidance, and encouragement to help you find your own path through the complexities of survivorship—reminding you that you don’t have to do it alone.Links relevant to this episode:https://www.finishinglinepress.com/product/the-birds-of-poverty-ridge-by-brad-buchanan/https://www.nmdp.org/patients/transplant-support/life-after-transplant/physical-recovery/graft-versus-host-disease/gvhd-treatment/extracorporeal-photopheresis-ecp General Links:Disclaimers: https://cancersurvivormd.org/disclaimers/Brad Buchanan: https://linktr.ee/bradthechimeraG [Josie] van Londen: https://linktr.ee/cancersurvivormdCancerBridges: https://cancerbridges.org/

Colleen Dwyer, Brad Buchanan, and Dr Josie explain in this episode that symptoms after cancer treatment can be physical, emotional, functional, or financial, and they often come in clusters. Some begin during treatment, some appear much later, and some problems such as bone loss or heart disease may stay silent until they become serious. Because evidence for symptom treatment in cancer survivors is sometimes limited, care often involves shared decision-making: talking openly with providers about symptoms, personal preferences, and the pros and cons of different options.A major theme is that survivors should not hide symptoms or try to manage everything alone. Help may come from many places, including doctors, physical therapy, occupational therapy, talk therapy, massage, exercise programs, and community resources. Brad’s story shows how recovery can involve trial and error, emotional healing, trauma processing, support for intimacy and relationships, and adapting over time as the body changes.The episode also strongly emphasizes support groups. They help normalize what people are experiencing, reduce isolation, offer practical advice, and create meaning. Survivors may not always be ready right away, but finding the right group and staying connected can be deeply helpful. Overall, the message is: speak up, keep seeking support, and remember that healing after cancer is an ongoing process that is best done with a team.Relevant links for this episode: https://manuptocancer.org/https://onecancerplace.org/https://colontown.org/GvHD Speaks has been defunded since this recording.  General Links:Disclaimers: https://cancersurvivormd.org/disclaimers/Brad Buchanan: https://linktr.ee/bradthechimeraG [Josie] van Londen: https://linktr.ee/cancersurvivormdCancerBridges: https://cancerbridges.org/

In this episode of the Cancer Survivor MD podcast series on essential elements of cancer survivorship care, Dr. Josie van Londen is joined by Brad Buchanan and Colleen Dwyer to discuss lifestyle and health behaviors as tools for coping and healing after cancer. The conversation explores how survivors often turn to diet, exercise, and other habits to regain a sense of control, while emphasizing the importance of balance rather than perfection. The group discusses practical guidance—such as starting lifestyle changes slowly, focusing on moderation and variety in diet (with some evidence supporting Mediterranean-style eating), and being cautious with unregulated supplements unless medically indicated. They also highlight how building a personal “toolkit” of coping strategies—movement, mindfulness, creative outlets, therapy, and community support—can help survivors process stress and adapt to life after treatment. Through Brad’s powerful personal story of recovery and adaptation after intensive cancer therapy, the episode underscores that healing is often gradual and individualized, and that survivors benefit from experimenting with different approaches while giving themselves time, compassion, and support along the way.Relevant links for this episode: EMDR: https://www.apa.org/topics/psychotherapy/emdr-therapy-ptsd General Links:Disclaimers: https://cancersurvivormd.org/disclaimers/Brad Buchanan: https://linktr.ee/bradthechimeraG [Josie] van Londen: https://linktr.ee/cancersurvivormdCancerBridges: https://cancerbridges.org/

We introduce Trevor Maxwell, founder of Man Up To Cancer, who shares his stage IV colon cancer diagnosis at 41 and how a rare MSI-high tumor type, immunotherapy, chemotherapy, and multiple major surgeries (including HIPEC) have helped him live with cancer for years and stay present for his family. They talk candidly about parenting through cancer, balancing hope with realism, and pushing back against toxic positivity. Trevor explains that his own depression and isolation—and the lack of spaces where men feel safe asking for help—sparked Man Up To Cancer, which now provides peer support, local chapters, retreats, and practical help to reduce isolation and redefine “manning up” as strength plus vulnerability.Relevant links: If you have thoughts or feelings about hurting yourself, or others, please call someone near you, or your local emergency number (in USA -> call 911 or call the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988; outside of USA -> https://findahelpline.com).https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/hipec-surgery-what-you-need-to-knowhttps://www.dempseycenter.orghttps://manuptocancer.orghttps://manuptocancer.org/blog1/blazinganewtrail General Links:Disclaimers: https://cancersurvivormd.org/disclaimers/Brad Buchanan: https://linktr.ee/bradthechimeraG [Josie] van Londen: https://linktr.ee/cancersurvivormdCancerBridges: https://cancerbridges.org/

In this episode of Cancer Survivor MD, Josie van Londen and Brad Buchanan interview Dr. Fred Appelbaum of Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center about his book Living Medicine and the history—and humanity—behind bone marrow transplantation, the breakthrough that paved the way for today’s cell and gene therapies. Appelbaum explains what transplantation is and how it works, reflects on his path into the field and mentorship under pioneer Don Thomas, and addresses the early ethical dilemmas, medical skepticism, and later legal scrutiny that shaped standards for transparency. Brad adds the patient perspective through his own transplant and graft-versus-host disease experience, including discussion of treatments like photopheresis and newer GVHD therapies. The conversation closes by looking ahead to the next era.Relevant links: https://mcpress.mayoclinic.org/product/living-medicine/https://www.fredhutch.org/en/faculty-lab-directory/appelbaum-frederick.htmlhttps://www.uwmedicine.org/bios/frederick-appelbaum General Links:Disclaimers: https://cancersurvivormd.org/disclaimers/Brad Buchanan: https://linktr.ee/bradthechimeraG [Josie] van Londen: https://linktr.ee/cancersurvivormdCancerBridges: https://cancerbridges.org/

A 21-year-old pianist gets brain cancer, refuses chemo to save his music, survives 30 years, founds Stupid Cancer, and now wants to organize 20 million cancer patients into a political force. Josie and Brad sit down with Matthew Zachary to talk history, late effects, parents, creativity, survivor guilt, and his next act: We The Patients. https://wethepatients.orgRelevant links pertinent to this episode:https://stupidcancer.org/https://www.wethepatients.org/https://www.matthewzachary.com/https://www.cancer.org/cancer/managing-cancer/side-effects/hair-skin-nails/hair-loss/cold-caps.html General Links:Disclaimers: https://cancersurvivormd.org/disclaimers/Brad Buchanan: https://linktr.ee/bradthechimeraG [Josie] van Londen: https://linktr.ee/cancersurvivormdCancerBridges: https://cancerbridges.org/

Brad Buchanan, Colleen Dwyer, and I will discuss an essential aspect of cancer survivorship care. In this episode, we’ll focus on the importance of screening for secondary cancers among cancer survivors.Relevant links pertinent to this episode:https://www.cancer.org/cancer/screening/american-cancer-society-guidelines-for-the-early-detection-of-cancer.htmlhttps://www.cdc.gov/cancer/prevention/screening.htmlhttps://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/screening General Links:Disclaimers: https://cancersurvivormd.org/disclaimers/Brad Buchanan: https://linktr.ee/bradthechimeraG [Josie] van Londen: https://linktr.ee/cancersurvivormdCancerBridges: https://cancerbridges.org/

Joelle Kaufman — cancer survivor, BRCA1 carrier, and author of “Crushing the Cancer Curve Ball: A Playbook for the Newly Diagnosed (and Their Family and Friends)” — joins Josie and co-host Brad Buchanan to talk about building a practical, compassionate “approach at the plate” for life with cancer. Joelle shares how writing helped her process, why her book is deliberately modular for foggy days, the origins of her free financial-toxicity calculator, and her idea of “happiness tripwires”. The conversation lands on a memorable refrain: we don’t choose the pitch; we choose the swing.Relevant links for this episode:Joelle Kaufman:Joelle Kaufman: https://joellekaufman.comKicking Cancer's Ass Podcast: https://www.kcapodcast.comJoelle Kaufman Revenue Catalyst Coaching: http://www.gtmflow.comBreast Cancer in Men: https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/types/breast-male Cold Caps: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/managing-cancer/side-effects/hair-skin-nails/hair-loss/cold-caps.html Cancer Gene Mutation Facts: https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/genetics/brca-fact-sheet General Links:Disclaimers: https://cancersurvivormd.org/disclaimers/Brad Buchanan: https://linktr.ee/bradthechimeraG [Josie] van Londen: https://linktr.ee/cancersurvivormdCancerBridges: https://cancerbridges.org/

In this episode, we sit down with social worker Colleen Dwyer from Cancer Bridges to talk about one of the five key parts of survivorship care: keeping an eye out for cancer coming back, also called cancer surveillance.We’ll share what surveillance really means, how it changes over time, and the emotions that can come with it. You’ll also hear tips for working with your health care team as your check-ups and tests gradually become less frequent—so you can feel more confident moving forward.Relevant links for this episode: Man Up to Cancer: https://manuptocancer.org/CancerBridges: https://cancerbridges.org/ General Links:Disclaimers: https://cancersurvivormd.org/disclaimers/Brad Buchanan: https://linktr.ee/bradthechimeraG [Josie] van Londen: https://linktr.ee/cancersurvivormdCancerBridges: https://cancerbridges.org/

In this powerful conversation, G [Josie] Van Londen, MD, shares her journey with primary mitochondrial disease and the life-changing impact of the investigational drug elamipretide. She describes the invisible toll of her condition, the relief of a long-awaited diagnosis, and the real-world improvements she’s experienced on treatment. As she urges the FDA to reconsider its recent denial, Josie highlights what’s at stake—not just for herself, but for the entire rare disease community.This link contains more resources (podcasts and news articles) as well as action items (to contact legislators and FDA). And here is a link to the podcast transcript with links to explain the terminology/definitions.  General Links:Disclaimers: https://cancersurvivormd.org/disclaimers/Brad Buchanan: https://linktr.ee/bradthechimeraG [Josie] van Londen: https://linktr.ee/cancersurvivormdCancerBridges: https://cancerbridges.org/

In this episode, Dr. Josie welcomes Colleen Dwyer Diehl, LCSW, a clinical social worker at Cancer Bridges, to introduce an exciting new mini-series on cancer survivorship. Colleen shares her journey, the mission of Cancer Bridges, and the impactful programs they offer to support cancer patients and survivors. Together, they explore the Living Life Post-Cancer Treatment program, a structured initiative designed to help individuals navigate life after active treatment. They also introduce the five essential elements of survivorship care, which will be explored in depth in upcoming episodes. Whether you’re a survivor, caregiver, or healthcare professional, this episode offers valuable insights and resources for thriving beyond cancer.Relevant links for this episode:Cancer Bridges at https://cancerbridges.org/Cancer Bridges Membership Forms at https://cancerbridges.org/become-a-member/Living Life Post Cancer Treatment at https://cancerbridges.org/specialized-programs/Once you become a free member and gain access to the calendar, you can view and register for the monthly Monday evening Post-Treatment group.  General Links:Disclaimers: https://cancersurvivormd.org/disclaimers/Brad Buchanan: https://linktr.ee/bradthechimeraG [Josie] van Londen: https://linktr.ee/cancersurvivormdCancerBridges: https://cancerbridges.org/

In this episode, we sit down with Patrick Bringley, MA, author of All the Beauty in the World, to explore his profound journey from working at The New Yorker to spending a decade as a museum guard at The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Patrick shares how the loss of his brother to cancer led him to seek solace in art, offering him space for reflection, healing, and a deeper appreciation of life’s beauty and struggles. We discuss the power of art in processing grief, the intersection of the mundane and the sublime, and how his time at the Met transformed his perspective. Join us for a heartfelt conversation about loss, love, and the unexpected paths that lead us toward meaning.Relevant links for this episode: https://www.patrickbringley.com/https://www.metmuseum.org/https://www.nytimes.com/2024/11/04/arts/design/patrick-bringley-met-guard-memoir-play-charleston.html General Links:Disclaimers: https://cancersurvivormd.org/disclaimers/Brad Buchanan: https://linktr.ee/bradthechimeraG [Josie] van Londen: https://linktr.ee/cancersurvivormdCancerBridges: https://cancerbridges.org/

Caregiving is a journey that touches many of our lives in profound and often unexpected ways. It is a role that demands resilience, compassion, and adaptability. In this episode, I have the pleasure of speaking with Gary Marzolf, whose lifelong experience with caregiving began at a very young age and has evolved through decades of personal challenges and triumphs. Gary’s story offers wisdom, inspiration, and insight into navigating the delicate balance between caring for others and taking care of oneself.Links relevant to this episode: Reiki: Hands That Heal by Joyce MorrisReiki for Emotional Healing by Tanmaya HonervogtAffirmations for Living Beyond Cancer by Bernie Siegel General Links:Disclaimers: https://cancersurvivormd.org/disclaimers/Brad Buchanan: https://linktr.ee/bradthechimeraG [Josie] van Londen: https://linktr.ee/cancersurvivormdCancerBridges: https://cancerbridges.org/

“A Life Beyond Reason: Chris Gabbard on Loss, Caregiving, and Spiritual Growth”In this deeply moving episode, Chris Gabbard, PhD, MA, professor and author of A Life Beyond Reason, shares his profound journey as a caregiver to his son August, who was born with severe disabilities due to a mismanaged birth. Chris reflects on the emotional and philosophical challenges he faced during and after August’s life, discussing the profound spiritual and personal growth that caregiving brought into his life. Alongside co-hosts Brad Buchanan and Dr. G van Londen, Chris explores themes of trust in the healthcare system, the therapeutic power of writing, and the ethics of caregiving. This conversation will resonate with anyone navigating grief, caregiving, or searching for meaning in life’s most challenging moments.Relevant links for this episode: Chris Gabbard's website and link to his book "A Life Beyond Reason"."Unspeakable Conversations" article in the New York Times.Peter Singer's website. Eva Feder Kittay's website. Atul Gawande's book "Being Mortal". General Links:Disclaimers: https://cancersurvivormd.org/disclaimers/Brad Buchanan: https://linktr.ee/bradthechimeraG [Josie] van Londen: https://linktr.ee/cancersurvivormdCancerBridges: https://cancerbridges.org/

Discover the essential tools and wisdom to empower yourself or a loved one through a cancer journey in our latest episode. Featuring author Jill Squire, BSN, RN, OCN,  and her groundbreaking book "Cancer Journey Guide and Journals: Empowerment in Diagnosis and Treatment and Beyond," we explore practical strategies to support cancer patients from diagnosis through long-term survivorship. This conversation promises invaluable insights into self-advocacy, effective communication, and the significance of tracking symptoms and treatments in a user-friendly format.Engage in a heartening discussion on the power of self-care activities like birding and mindfulness, which are essential tools for managing symptoms and maintaining mental wellness. Learn how to build a robust cancer care team, navigate tough conversations with loved ones, and utilize guided journals to keep track of your journey. By sharing personal stories, practical advice, and compassionate guidance, our panel aims to empower you with the knowledge and confidence to take charge of your healthcare experience.We also delve into the critical aspect of building trust with healthcare providers and the role of daily symptom tracking in shared decision-making. Jill Squire provides expert tips on creating useful diaries to document experiences, which can significantly enhance communication with healthcare professionals. Concluding on a light-hearted note with a pun to bring some humor, we express gratitude to Jill and reflect on the book's unique value for anyone facing a challenging diagnosis. Join us for this heartfelt and informative episode designed to uplift and empower.Relevant links for Jill Squire: Jill's first book. Jill's LinkedIn profile. Jill's podcast.Jill's facebook profile.Jill's Patreon profile. Jill's YouTube profile.  General Links:Disclaimers: https://cancersurvivormd.org/disclaimers/Brad Buchanan: https://linktr.ee/bradthechimeraG [Josie] van Londen: https://linktr.ee/cancersurvivormdCancerBridges: https://cancerbridges.org/

Could you endure the excruciating pain of cancer therapy complications and still find gratitude in the experience? Join us as Brad shares his gripping story of survival following a stem cell transplant in early 2016. Brad takes us through the agonizing process of total body irradiation, chemotherapy, and the harrowing reality of developing severe acute graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). His gut-wrenching account of intense pain, temporary blindness, and gastrointestinal distress, coupled with the initial misdiagnosis by his medical team, gives us a raw glimpse into the grueling battle he faced. Through Brad's narrative, we delve into the intricacies of managing a hostile immune system and the long-term effects of cancer treatment, such as bone health deterioration, sexual dysfunction, and difficulty swallowing. Brad's insights emphasize the importance of self-advocacy and informed decision-making within the medical landscape. Despite the overwhelming challenges, Brad's story is one of resilience and gratitude, highlighting his appreciation for the life-saving procedure and the crucial role of extracorporeal photophoresis (ECP) in his recovery. We also explore the emotional and relational toll of chronic illness as Brad candidly discusses the strain on his mental health and family dynamics. From managing severe health conditions while shouldering family responsibilities to the bittersweet reality of early retirement due to disability, Brad's journey sheds light on the profound impact of chronic illness on personal and professional life. The episode concludes with a heartfelt exchange between Brad and Josie, filled with mutual gratitude and reflections on resilience. It leaves listeners with a sense of hope and admiration for Brad’s extraordinary strength.Relevant links: Brad's book about GvHD and Podcast episode with Brad's wife and Leukemia and Lymphoma Society's info about Graft vs Host Disease (GvHD).  General Links:Disclaimers: https://cancersurvivormd.org/disclaimers/Brad Buchanan: https://linktr.ee/bradthechimeraG [Josie] van Londen: https://linktr.ee/cancersurvivormdCancerBridges: https://cancerbridges.org/

Join us as Brad and I dive into the unspoken challenges related to cancer therapies. We share our personal experiences with honesty and vulnerability. We had so much content that we split it into two parts. This is the first part, in which we tackle the often-overlooked subjects of fertility, intimacy, bone health, accelerated aging, and the emotionally taxing effects of stigmas associated with cancer. In future episodes, we hope to tackle these topics in more detail.Brad and I share our stories in the hope of resonating with and supporting fellow survivors who are walking a similar path. General Links:Disclaimers: https://cancersurvivormd.org/disclaimers/Brad Buchanan: https://linktr.ee/bradthechimeraG [Josie] van Londen: https://linktr.ee/cancersurvivormdCancerBridges: https://cancerbridges.org/

I sit down with Kate Washington to discuss her compelling book, "Already Toast," which delves into the profound and multifaceted caregiving journey. Kate shares her deeply personal experience of caring for her husband as he underwent a stem cell transplantation for lymphoma. We explore the highs and lows, the triumphs and challenges, and the emotional and physical toll that caregiving can take. Through her narrative, Kate provides invaluable insights and reflections that resonate with anyone who has navigated the intricate path of supporting a loved one through a serious illness. Join us for a candid and heartfelt conversation that sheds light on caregiving's often unspoken realities and complexities.https://www.kawashington.com/already-toast.html  General Links:Disclaimers: https://cancersurvivormd.org/disclaimers/Brad Buchanan: https://linktr.ee/bradthechimeraG [Josie] van Londen: https://linktr.ee/cancersurvivormdCancerBridges: https://cancerbridges.org/

How do you navigate the turbulent waters of cancer recurrence and its treatment? In this emotionally charged episode, we share deeply personal stories of battling persistent abnormal cells, undergoing numerous medical procedures (surgery, radiation, and stem cell transplant), and the heart-wrenching decision to opt for treatments that come at large risk of loss of fertility, loss of life, and loss of quality of life. We will discuss the unique nature of each of our cancer journeys (Brad's lymphoma and Josie's solid tumor), all through the lens of lived experiences. Prevention strategies are also discussed. Helpful links:https://www.cdc.gov/hpv/parents/vaccine-for-hpv.htmlhttps://bethematch.org/transplant-basics/how-blood-stem-cell-transplants-work/how-donors-and-patients-are-matched/https://www.cancer.org/cancer/managing-cancer/treatment-types/stem-cell-transplant/types-of-transplants.html General Links:Disclaimers: https://cancersurvivormd.org/disclaimers/Brad Buchanan: https://linktr.ee/bradthechimeraG [Josie] van Londen: https://linktr.ee/cancersurvivormdCancerBridges: https://cancerbridges.org/

In this second part of the podcast episode, hosts Brad and his co-host delve into Brad's harrowing experience with aggressive cancer treatment. Initially diagnosed with an indolent form of cancer, Brad's condition rapidly worsened, leading to an emergency hospitalization due to a burst tumor in his lung. The episode details the intense therapeutic measures taken, including aggressive chemotherapy, the physiological and psychological toll, and the extensive hospital stay. Brad shares his firsthand experiences of treatment, recovery challenges, and complications, ultimately highlighting the resilience required to endure such a grueling medical journey. The episode also touches on the importance of personalized care, the potential impact of prehabilitation, and the evolving nature of oncology treatment methodologies.Helpful Links:https://www.elsevier.com/products/clinicalpathhttps://www.cancer.org/cancer/managing-cancer/side-effects/fertility-and-sexual-side-effects/fertility-and-women-with-cancer/preserving-fertility-in-women.htmlhttps://www.cancer.org/cancer/managing-cancer/side-effects/fertility-and-sexual-side-effects/fertility-and-men-with-cancer/preserving-fertility-in-men.htmlhttps://www.dana-farber.org/health-library/how-prehabilitation-can-benefit-cancer-patients General Links:Disclaimers: https://cancersurvivormd.org/disclaimers/Brad Buchanan: https://linktr.ee/bradthechimeraG [Josie] van Londen: https://linktr.ee/cancersurvivormdCancerBridges: https://cancerbridges.org/

Discovering cancer during a prenatal checkup was a curveball I never saw coming. Listen closely as I open up about my battle with HPV-related cancer, diving into the emotional rollercoaster from the initial diagnosis of low-grade dysplasia to the eventual necessity of treatment for high-grade dysplasia. Brad joins me, offering a unique lens through his own fight with lymphoma, casting it as an unwelcome guest, much like a pregnancy. The conversation then shifts gears to a critical comparison of healthcare systems as we juxtapose the Dutch model against the American one. We dissect the subtler points of socialized medicine, discuss the implications of holistic versus aggressive treatments, and the delicate balance required in managing cancer care. This episode peels back the layers of ethical considerations in personalized medicine, the insightful impact of rapid body autopsy programs, and the myths surrounding treatment aggressiveness. Join Brad and me as we navigate these intricate waters, aiming to shed light on the complexities of cancer care and the pursuit of patient-centric treatment strategies.Helpful links for this episode:https://www.mdedge.com/hematology-oncology/article/164392/practice-management/rapid-autopsy-programs-seek-clues-cancer/page/0/5 General Links:Disclaimers: https://cancersurvivormd.org/disclaimers/Brad Buchanan: https://linktr.ee/bradthechimeraG [Josie] van Londen: https://linktr.ee/cancersurvivormdCancerBridges: https://cancerbridges.org/

In this episode, we will be speaking about our personal experiences with the diagnostic part of our journey for our initial diagnosis, such as delay in workup, needing more tissue for diagnostic purposes (multiple times being biopsied, etc.), being a rare case,  getting a second opinion,  talking with our children,  and a bit about feeling gaslighted. Here are a few helpful links relevant to this episode:https://www.cancer.org/cancer/caregivers/helping-children-when-a-family-member-has-cancer/dealing-with-treatment/talking-to-kids.htmlhttps://www.cancer.org/cancer/managing-cancer/finding-care/seeking-a-second-opinion.html General Links:Disclaimers: https://cancersurvivormd.org/disclaimers/Brad Buchanan: https://linktr.ee/bradthechimeraG [Josie] van Londen: https://linktr.ee/cancersurvivormdCancerBridges: https://cancerbridges.org/

Brad and Josie describe a summary of their significant and chronic health issues, which we will discuss in more detail in future episodes. General Links:Disclaimers: https://cancersurvivormd.org/disclaimers/Brad Buchanan: https://linktr.ee/bradthechimeraG [Josie] van Londen: https://linktr.ee/cancersurvivormdCancerBridges: https://cancerbridges.org/

When the surgeon's scalpel is aimed at oneself, the world turns on its head. Dr. Liz O'Riordan, MD, FRCS, PhD, a former British surgeon now on a mission to educate after multiple breast cancer diagnoses, joins us to share her compelling story. In a transparent and touching narrative, Liz recounts the duality of her life as both caretaker and patient, threading through her personal experiences the pearls of wisdom that have emerged from her role reversal. Her book "Under the Knife" is more than a memoir; it's a call to action for deeper empathy and understanding in the face of illness.The depth and breadth of cancer's impact on life's balance beam are laid bare as Liz guides us through her strategies for coping and thriving post-diagnosis. Initiatives like CancerBridges.org become lifelines in this journey, providing community support and essential tools for those navigating the treacherous waters of long-term survivorship. Liz also peels back the layers on the wheel of life concept, reminding us that self-care is not a luxury but a necessity, especially for those in high-stress professions like surgery. The conversation delves into the delicate interplay between fate and choice regarding cancer causation, urging listeners to embrace self-compassion over guilt.In our final reflections, Liz lights the path to self-improvement and seizing joy in everyday life, urging us all to take even the smallest step toward healthier living. The message is clear: thriving, not just surviving, is the goal. Her candor and the relatable anecdotes shared throughout the episode underscore the power of resilience and the importance of cherishing life's moments. We're left with a strong sense of gratitude, both for Dr. O'Rioaden's vulnerability in sharing her story and for the community of listeners who join us in this ongoing conversation about life, health, and personal growth.https://liz.oriordan.co.uk/ General Links:Disclaimers: https://cancersurvivormd.org/disclaimers/Brad Buchanan: https://linktr.ee/bradthechimeraG [Josie] van Londen: https://linktr.ee/cancersurvivormdCancerBridges: https://cancerbridges.org/

Have you ever witnessed the metamorphosis of the human spirit through the darkest of times? Brad Buchanan, PhD, MA, a resilient cancer survivor and former English professor, joins us to share his captivating journey of battling cancer, undergoing a stem cell transplant, and living with the complex aftermath of Graft versus Host Disease (GVHD). In a narrative that weaves vulnerability with triumph, Brad opens up about the transformative role of writing in his path to healing and how he embraced a new philosophy of acceptance in the face of relentless health challenges.As we navigate Brad's story, we uncover the paradoxical nature of GVHD – the condition that both fights cancer and poses its own life-threatening complications. His words chronicle his personal battle and serve as a beacon of hope for others facing similar adversities, illuminating the profound psychological shifts accompanying such journeys.Our discussions transcend the individual stories, touching on the collective experience of illness, the quest for meaning amidst uncertainty, and the heartfelt solidarity we share with all our listeners. Join us for this episode that reminds us of the indomitable human spirit's capacity to confront, adapt, and ultimately thrive.You can read more about Brad at https://www.bradthechimera.com and about CancerBridges at http://www.cancerbridges.org. General Links:Disclaimers: https://cancersurvivormd.org/disclaimers/Brad Buchanan: https://linktr.ee/bradthechimeraG [Josie] van Londen: https://linktr.ee/cancersurvivormdCancerBridges: https://cancerbridges.org/

When the pages of a book flutter closed, the story lingers, etching itself into the fabric of our beings. Such is the essence of our latest chat with Ethan Joella, PhD, MA, MFA, MS, a revered storyteller and University of Delaware educator, whose novels "A Little Hope" and "The Quiet Life" tenderly sketch the intricate dance of life's trials and the resilience of the human spirit. Our conversation with Ethan stretches beyond the written word, touching on the raw inspiration drawn from personal heartache—how the loss of a loved one can bleed into the pages of fiction, offering solace and understanding to those who find their own stories reflected in his characters.Objects hold the weight of memories, and as Ethan reads from "A Quiet Life," we're enveloped in the poignant symbol of a towel, a relic of love and loss. This moment opens a window into the psychology of attachment, guiding us through the fabric of our sentimental ties to the material world. Ethan's dual mastery of English and psychology shines a light on these connections, unearthing the deeper truths hidden in the everyday and leaving us to ponder the relics of our lives that we cling to for comfort and remembrance.Much like any passion, writing demands a delicate balance with life's ceaseless rhythm. Ethan's insights on finding time for creativity amid the bustle stir a chord within us, nudging aspiring writers to embrace discipline and cherish the act of storytelling as a bridge to legacy. Join us for a heartening journey through literature's power to connect and heal, as we unwrap the stories of one author's devotion to the craft amidst the tender complexities of life.https://www.ethanjoellawriter.com/ General Links:Disclaimers: https://cancersurvivormd.org/disclaimers/Brad Buchanan: https://linktr.ee/bradthechimeraG [Josie] van Londen: https://linktr.ee/cancersurvivormdCancerBridges: https://cancerbridges.org/

When Elaine Schattner, MD, MS, stepped into our studio, she brought with her a treasure trove of insights from her journey as a physician and breast cancer survivor. Her book lays the groundwork for our conversation, chronicling the transformation of cancer from a taboo subject to one openly discussed across various platforms, particularly social media. Our discussion traverses the landscape of public health, from early 20th-century education efforts to the role of online communities today. We navigate the complexities of sharing personal health stories in the digital age and the responsibilities of medical professionals to disseminate information accurately and compassionately.With Elaine’s expertise lighting the way, we venture into the rapidly evolving field of precision oncology, where artificial intelligence revolutionizes patient care. Gone are the days of one-size-fits-all treatments; we're now entering an era where therapies are tailored to the genetic makeup of individual tumors. This episode peels back the layers of this medical evolution, from discovering pivotal genes to developing targeted drugs that promise a future of personalized medicine. Elaine's valuable perspective underlines the importance of bridging the gap between hard sciences and human connection within the healthcare system.The journey concludes on a reflective note, exploring the delicate balance of hope and uncertainty in cancer care. Through Elaine's eyes, we understand the weight of trust in the doctor-patient relationship and the varying ways individuals face the unknown. This episode doesn't just recount Elaine's narrative; it knits together the voices of our live audience, whose questions and experiences enrich the tapestry of our discussion. Join us for this intimate and enlightening exploration of how far we've come in understanding and battling cancer, and the paths still uncharted in this ongoing fight.https://www.elaineschattner.com/ General Links:Disclaimers: https://cancersurvivormd.org/disclaimers/Brad Buchanan: https://linktr.ee/bradthechimeraG [Josie] van Londen: https://linktr.ee/cancersurvivormdCancerBridges: https://cancerbridges.org/

Navigating life's tightrope while carrying the weight of health challenges requires a strength that many of us discover only when tested by fire. I'm Josie, your guide through this intimate exploration of how to strike a balance between self-care and the relentless tug of responsibilities. As we unfold the pages of our lives in this episode, we confront the delicate dance of managing family, career, and financial pressures alongside the imperative need for healing and wellness. The stories shared here reach out, offering a comforting embrace to those who've battled cancer, those living with chronic conditions, and anyone feeling the burden of keeping it all afloat.Together, we'll navigate the often unspoken journey towards finding a midpoint in the chaos—a place where harmony isn't just a distant dream but an attainable reality. I invite you into this safe space where we chart the course from struggle to serenity, no matter what health battles you may be facing. Through candid conversations and insights, this episode serves as a beacon for shared growth and understanding. No matter where you are on your path, wrap yourself in the warmth of community and let's embark on this journey to balance, together. General Links:Disclaimers: https://cancersurvivormd.org/disclaimers/Brad Buchanan: https://linktr.ee/bradthechimeraG [Josie] van Londen: https://linktr.ee/cancersurvivormdCancerBridges: https://cancerbridges.org/