Veteran Cancer Talk

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when you’re still serving your country… and get diagnosed with stage 4 cancer?In this episode, we sit down with Ron and Kate Belany — a Navy family navigating life after a stage 4 colon cancer diagnosis.From early symptoms that were easy to dismiss… to a misdiagnosis… to starting treatment just weeks later — this conversation dives into what that journey really looks like.We also talk about: The moment everything changed  What treatment is actually like day-to-day  The role of the caregiver (and why it’s just as hard)  Military support systems that helped along the way  The mental battle behind cancer  And how perspective shifts when nothing is guaranteed Ron’s mindset is simple: stay positive, stay present, and keep going.This is a real conversation about resilience, family, and fighting forward.Support the showVeteran Cancer Network is building the resource we wish we had. Connecting veterans and caregivers navigating cancer. Learn more at www.veterancancernetwork.org

Send us Fan MailThis wasn’t planned.We just kept the mic rolling.After wrapping our conversation with Kevin Sloan, Casey jumped in and what followed turned into one of the most real conversations we’ve had yet.No script. No structure. Just two veterans who’ve both faced testicular cancer talking about what life actually looks like after.In this Side Mission episode, we get into: Life after losing one—or both—testicles  Low testosterone (Low T) and hormone replacement therapy  What recovery really feels like (the stuff no one tells you)  Chemo, fatigue, and long-term side effects  The fear of cancer coming back—and how it sticks with you  Navigating the VA and advocating for your own care  Why more men need to start talking about this This is the conversation that usually happens off camera—but it’s the one more people need to hear.If you’ve been through cancer, know someone who has, or just want the real side of survivorship… this one hits different. Full episodes: Veteran Cancer Talk Learn more: www.veterancancernetwork.org If something feels off get checked. Early detection saves lives.Support the showVeteran Cancer Network is building the resource we wish we had. Connecting veterans and caregivers navigating cancer. Learn more at www.veterancancernetwork.org

Send us Fan MailMost men don’t talk about it.That’s exactly why this conversation matters.In this episode of Veteran Cancer Talk, we sit down with Kevin Sloan, a Kevin Sloan a Marine Corps veteran and two-time testicular cancer survivor who shares what it’s really like to face cancer not once… but twice.From deploying to Kuwait and Iraq to navigating life after service, Kevin opens up about the moment everything changed when he found something that didn’t feel right and made the decision to get it checked. That decision likely saved his life. We talk about: The early signs of testicular cancer most men ignore  Why self-checks and speaking up matter more than you think  His full treatment journey: surgery, chemotherapy, and long-term surveillance  The reality of navigating VA healthcare and community care options The mental side of cancer—and why support systems are critical  Gaps in screening, and why early detection needs to change for veteransKevin also shares something many veterans struggle with—self-advocacy. When you’re told “you’re fine,” but something doesn’t feel right… what do you do?This conversation is honest, real, and something every man—and every family—needs to hear.Because here’s the truth: - Early detection saves lives. - Silence can cost them.Whether you’re a veteran, active duty, or someone who loves one. This episode could make a difference. About the GuestKevin Sloan is a Marine Corps veteran and two-time testicular cancer survivor dedicated to raising awareness and encouraging men—especially veterans—to take control of their health through early detection and advocacy. Listen / Watch / Learn More https://www.veterancancernetwork.org Pedal for Impact → https://veterancancernetwork.org/pedal-for-impact/ Important ReminderIf something feels off—get checked. Don’t wait.Support the showVeteran Cancer Network is building the resource we wish we had. Connecting veterans and caregivers navigating cancer. Learn more at www.veterancancernetwork.org

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Veteran Cancer Talk, we sit down with Dave Diaz, a Navy, Army, and Army National Guard veteran who was diagnosed with prostate cancer at just 45 years old—with no symptoms.Dave shares how a routine blood test changed everything, leading to surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and years of hormone therapy. But beyond the physical battle, this episode dives into something often overlooked—the mental and emotional toll cancer takes, especially for veterans.We talk about identity, isolation, and the moment Dave realized he couldn’t do it alone. That turning point led him to a support group that ultimately changed his life—and inspired him to lead The Reluctant Brotherhood, a nonprofit helping men navigate prostate cancer together.This is an honest, real conversation about what cancer actually looks like—and why community matters more than most people realize.Key Takeaways:• Cancer can exist with no symptoms—early testing matters• Family history and genetics play a major role• Treatment is more than physical—it impacts identity and mental health• Isolation can make the journey harder than it needs to be• Support groups can be life-changing• Caregivers need support tooConnect with Dave & The Reluctant Brotherhood:https://thereluctantbrotherhood.orgVeteran Cancer Network:https://www.veterancancernetwork.orgIf this episode resonates with you, share it with someone who needs to hear it. No one should go through this alone.Support the showVeteran Cancer Network is building the resource we wish we had. Connecting veterans and caregivers navigating cancer. Learn more at www.veterancancernetwork.org

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Veteran Cancer Talk, Ashton speaks with Liz Blackmon — Army veteran, breast cancer survivor, retired Department of Justice law enforcement officer, veteran advocate, and realtor.Liz shares her journey from military service to a breast cancer diagnosis that was caught early because she advocated for her own health and pushed for a mammogram. Diagnosed at stage 1, grade 2, Liz chose to undergo a bilateral mastectomy and later spent years on hormone therapy as part of her treatment.Throughout the conversation, Liz reflects on the importance of listening to your body, asking questions, and pushing for the screenings you feel you need. She also talks about the challenges many veterans face navigating healthcare and why early detection can make all the difference.Beyond her cancer journey, Liz discusses her continued work supporting veterans, including advocacy efforts for female veterans and those transitioning out of military service.This episode is a powerful reminder that self-advocacy, regular screenings, and community support can save lives.In this episode we discuss: • Liz’s time serving in the U.S. Army • Her career in federal law enforcement • How her breast cancer was discovered • The decision to undergo a bilateral mastectomy • Life after treatment and hormone therapy • Why veterans must advocate for their healthcare • Resources and support available for veteransAbout Veteran Cancer Talk: Veteran Cancer Talk is a podcast by Veteran Cancer Network, sharing honest conversations with veterans, caregivers, and experts about cancer, early detection, and navigating the journey together.Support the showVeteran Cancer Network is building the resource we wish we had. Connecting veterans and caregivers navigating cancer. Learn more at www.veterancancernetwork.org

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Veteran Cancer Talk, Ashton sits down with Army veteran and leukemia survivor Shawn Morgan.After multiple deployments to Iraq and years of potential toxic exposure, Shawn began experiencing unusual fatigue, shortness of breath, and other warning signs. In June 2024, he was diagnosed with leukemia and quickly began an intense treatment journey that included chemotherapy, long hospital stays, and a stem cell transplant from his brother.Shawn shares what the experience was like for him and his family, the challenges of treatment, and the lessons he learned along the way. Today, he is focused on advocacy—encouraging veterans to prioritize their health, seek early detection, and speak up for themselves during medical care.His story is one of resilience, support, and turning survivorship into purpose. 00:00 Welcome to Veteran Cancer Talk 02:28 Military Service and Deployments 05:33 Toxic Exposure and Cancer Risk 10:47 The Road to Diagnosis 16:37 Chemotherapy and Hospital Treatment 19:31 Family Impact and Support 22:27 Stem Cell Transplant and Recovery 25:37 Early Detection and Veteran Health 27:16 Advocacy and Helping Other Veterans 28:47 Advice for Others Facing Cancer Support the showVeteran Cancer Network is building the resource we wish we had. Connecting veterans and caregivers navigating cancer. Learn more at www.veterancancernetwork.org

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Veteran Cancer Talk, Ashton speaks with Dr. Elizabeth O’Donnell, Director of the Multicancer Early Detection Clinic at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, about one of the most promising developments in oncology: multicancer early detection (MSED) testing.MSED tests use a single blood draw to analyze DNA methylation signatures that may indicate the presence of cancer. Some commercially available tests can screen for up to 50 different types of cancer — including many that currently have no recommended screening options.Dr. O’Donnell explains: • How MSED testing works • Why these tests complement — not replace — traditional screenings • The Sentinel Study evaluating MSED in veterans • Eligibility requirements for participation • What happens after an abnormal result • Current limitations and false positive rates • The future of early cancer detection and Medicare reimbursementThis conversation explores how emerging blood-based screening tools could reshape cancer detection — particularly for veterans who may face elevated cancer risks due to service-related exposures.To learn more about the Sentinel Study or Veteran Cancer Network, visit: www.veterancancernetwork.org  or  https://www.sentinelstudy.com/Support the showVeteran Cancer Network is building the resource we wish we had. Connecting veterans and caregivers navigating cancer. Learn more at www.veterancancernetwork.org

Send us Fan MailWhen a veteran is diagnosed with cancer, the whole family is changed — but few people see what happens to the caregiver.In this episode of Veteran Cancer Talk, Jennifer Worthy shares her experience supporting her husband, a Gulf War Marine, through a stage 3 cancer diagnosis, remission, and now a stage 4 recurrence. From chemotherapy routines to navigating the VA healthcare system, Jennifer opens up about caregiver burnout, emotional boundaries, marriage under pressure, and the quiet exhaustion that comes with holding everything together.This conversation explores the unseen side of cancer — the mental load, the isolation, the fear of recurrence, and the strength it takes to love someone through it all.We also discuss toxic exposure, veteran cancer risk, and why earlier cancer screening and awareness are critical for military families.If you are a caregiver, spouse, or family member supporting someone through cancer, this episode is for you.Topics Discussed:Caregiver burnout and self-careSupporting a spouse through chemotherapyCancer recurrence and stage 4 diagnosisNavigating VA healthcare and private insuranceToxic exposure and the PACT ActMarriage and resilience during illnessAdvocacy for veteran cancer screeningSupport the showVeteran Cancer Network is building the resource we wish we had. Connecting veterans and caregivers navigating cancer. Learn more at www.veterancancernetwork.org

Send us Fan MailJoseph Zolper, Army veteran and Manager of Outreach & Networking at the Road Home Program at Rush University Medical Center, joins Ashton on Veteran Cancer Talk to discuss veterans’ mental health, toxic exposure awareness, and why support matters even more when veterans and families are navigating serious medical issues like cancer.Joseph shares his Afghanistan deployment experience, the reality of mental health symptoms surfacing after service, and why many veterans put their health last during the transition to civilian life. He also explains how the Road Home Program provides no-cost mental health care for veterans, service members, and families—plus accelerated treatment options and virtual care in many states—while emphasizing that caregivers and spouses deserve support too.Get care (self-referral): https://roadhomeprogram.org/ → Get Care More from Veteran Cancer Network: https://veterancancernetwork.org/Guest Bio: Joseph Zolper is a leader, veteran, and advocate dedicated to serving the military community. A former U.S. Army Infantry Officer (Captain), he deployed to Afghanistan under Operation Freedom’s Sentinel and earned the Bronze Star, two Army Commendation Medals, and the Combat Infantryman Badge. After service, he built one of Amazon’s largest Military Employee Resource Groups and now helps veterans and families access life-changing care through the Road Home Program.Support the showVeteran Cancer Network is building the resource we wish we had. Connecting veterans and caregivers navigating cancer. Learn more at www.veterancancernetwork.org

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Veteran Cancer Talk, host Ashton speaks with Gary Schell, a U.S. Marine Corps infantry veteran and testicular cancer survivor, about his journey from military service to cancer diagnosis—and life after treatment.Gary shares his experiences serving with 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines, including deployments to the Pacific and the Middle East, and discusses potential toxic exposures during military service that may impact long-term health. He opens up about noticing early warning signs during the COVID era, receiving a testicular cancer diagnosis, and undergoing aggressive treatment, including chemotherapy and a tandem stem cell transplant.The conversation also explores the importance of early cancer detection for veterans, navigating the medical system, seeking second opinions, and addressing mental health challenges during and after cancer treatment. Gary explains how survivorship reshaped his purpose and led him to found the Home of Record Project, a nonprofit dedicated to helping veterans secure stable housing and rebuild their lives.This episode is essential listening for veterans, caregivers, and advocates focused on cancer awareness, toxic exposure, mental health, and veteran support.Topics covered include:Testicular cancer in veteransMilitary toxic exposure and long-term health risksCancer treatment and stem cell transplantsMental health and survivorshipVeteran advocacy and nonprofit leadershipLife after cancer and ongoing surveillanceLearn more about the Home of Record Project: https://homeofrecordproject.org/Support the showVeteran Cancer Network is building the resource we wish we had. Connecting veterans and caregivers navigating cancer. Learn more at www.veterancancernetwork.org

Send us Fan MailCharise Isis, founder and director of The Grace Project, joins Veteran Cancer Talk to share how photography has become a powerful tool for healing, visibility, and empowerment for breast cancer survivors — including veterans.Through visual storytelling, The Grace Project is putting real faces to breast cancer and changing the way survivorship is seen, felt, and understood. The project has photographed more than 1,200 survivors, creating space for individuals to reclaim their identity, dignity, and sense of self after diagnosis.In this conversation, Charise discusses how The Grace Project began, why humanizing breast cancer matters, and how photography can help survivors feel seen, heard, and valued. She also shares insights on early detection, the importance of self-advocacy in healthcare, and the emotional and mental health side of survivorship.Topics include: • The origins and growth of The Grace Project • Using photography to humanize breast cancer • Breast cancer in young women • Early detection and why it matters • Self-advocacy within the healthcare system • The healing power of community and peer support • Men and breast cancer awareness • Creating a veterans-focused chapter within The Grace Project • Exhibitions and public storytelling that honor survivor storiesThis episode explores the human side of cancer beyond statistics — the fear, resilience, strength, and hope that exist alongside diagnosis and treatment. It also highlights why connection, compassion, and early detection are critical to improving outcomes for both veterans and civilians.Whether you are a survivor, caregiver, veteran, healthcare professional, or someone who loves a person impacted by cancer, this conversation offers insight, encouragement, and a reminder that you are not alone.Guest: Charise Isis Founder / Director / Photographer – The Grace Project (Grace Goddess Inc.)Website: www.the-grace-project.org Facebook: www.facebook.com/graceproject Instagram: @800goddessesSupport the showVeteran Cancer Network is building the resource we wish we had. Connecting veterans and caregivers navigating cancer. Learn more at www.veterancancernetwork.org

Send us Fan MailNavy veteran, breast cancer survivor, photographer, and author Brenda M. Lee joins Veteran Cancer Talk to share her powerful story of military service, toxic exposure, breast cancer diagnosis at age 30, and long-term survivorship.Brenda served aboard Navy ships where she was regularly exposed to jet fuel, asbestos, and hazardous environments — conditions many veterans now believe contribute to higher cancer risk. She opens up about receiving her cancer diagnosis through a phone call while sitting in a Target parking lot, navigating nearly a year of chemotherapy and radiation, and the psychological impact that followed.In this conversation, Brenda discusses: • Breast cancer in young women • Cancer risk among women veterans • Military environmental exposures and cancer • The mental health effects of cancer treatment • The importance of early detection and self-advocacy • Why survivorship does not always mean “being okay”Now more than eighteen years cancer-free, Brenda shares her experience with honesty, humor, and compassion through her book It’s Not You, It’s Cancer: A Slightly Inappropriate Guide to Breast Cancer Survival. Her book offers real-world guidance for patients, survivors, caregivers, and families navigating diagnosis, treatment, and life after cancer.This episode highlights the invisible battles veterans face, the critical role of caregivers, and why connecting with others who understand the cancer journey can be lifesaving.Connect with BrendaWebsite: https://brendamlee.wordpress.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Brenda.Marion.LeeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/brendamlee_author/Order It’s Not You, It’s CancerAmazon / Kindle (Print & eBook): https://amzn.to/4nBnXveApple Books: https://books.apple.com/us/book/its-not-you-its-cancer/id6754893131Barnes & Noble (Print & eBook): https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/its-not-you-its-cancer-brenda-m-lee/1148680446?ean=2940182894982Support the showVeteran Cancer Network is building the resource we wish we had. Connecting veterans and caregivers navigating cancer. Learn more at www.veterancancernetwork.org

Send us Fan MailIn Episode 3, Casey — Marine Corps veteran and cancer survivor — breaks down one of the biggest gaps in veteran healthcare: age-based cancer screening.Most cancer screening guidelines are built for the “average” patient. But veterans are not average. Military service comes with unique environmental and occupational exposures that increase cancer risk — risks that often aren’t considered when care is based on age alone.In this episode, Casey explains why age-based screening fails veterans, how systemic healthcare defaults create dangerous delays in diagnosis, and what veterans can do to advocate for cancer screening based on risk rather than age. This conversation is focused on understanding the system, not placing blame — and empowering veterans to have better, more informed conversations with their healthcare providers.If you’re a veteran navigating healthcare, a caregiver, or a healthcare professional working with veterans, this episode offers practical insight into why cancer care must evolve to reflect military service-related risk.Risk doesn’t mean cancer is guaranteed — it means the odds are different.Support the showVeteran Cancer Network is building the resource we wish we had. Connecting veterans and caregivers navigating cancer. Learn more at www.veterancancernetwork.org

Send us Fan MailIn Episode 2, Casey — Marine Corps veteran and co-founder of Veteran Cancer Network — shares his personal journey with testicular cancer, from the first warning signs to chemotherapy and recovery.Casey reflects on his military service, exposure to toxic environments, and the challenges veterans face when navigating VA healthcare and cancer diagnosis. He recounts how a seemingly unrelated bicycle accident led to the discovery of his tumor, the moment he received his diagnosis, and what it was like undergoing chemotherapy as a young veteran.This episode highlights the importance of self-advocacy in healthcare, leaning on community and loved ones during treatment, and finding moments of humor even in the hardest seasons. Casey also shares practical advice for veterans and patients preparing for chemotherapy — including what no one tells you beforehand.If you’re a veteran, caregiver, or someone navigating a cancer diagnosis, this episode offers honesty, perspective, and reassurance that you don’t have to face it alone.Advocating for your health can save your life.Support the showVeteran Cancer Network is building the resource we wish we had. Connecting veterans and caregivers navigating cancer. Learn more at www.veterancancernetwork.org

Send us Fan MailVeterans are being diagnosed with cancer younger and too often, too late.In Episode 1, we introduce the Veteran Cancer Network and the reason it exists. Marine Corps veterans Casey and Ashton share their personal experiences navigating cancer as a veteran and caregiver, and the systemic gaps they encountered along the way.This episode explores how age-based screening guidelines, communication breakdowns in healthcare, and limited access to early detection put veterans at higher risk. We discuss why early, risk-based cancer screening matters, the critical role caregivers play, and how storytelling can drive real change in veteran healthcare.You’ll also hear about Pedal for Impact, a grassroots advocacy initiative designed to raise awareness, build community, and push for earlier cancer detection for veterans nationwide.If you’re a veteran, caregiver, or healthcare advocate, this episode sets the foundation for the conversations ahead—and why this movement is urgently needed.This isn’t about age. It’s about risk.Support the showVeteran Cancer Network is building the resource we wish we had. Connecting veterans and caregivers navigating cancer. Learn more at www.veterancancernetwork.org