How Elissa Built a Movement While Fighting Stage 4 Cancer | EP 76

What if the future of childhood cancer looked different? Safer treatments, targeted therapies, and doctors who carry personal stories that fuel every decision? Today’s guest is one of those rare voices changing everything. In this powerful episode, Dr. Jess Puzzuoli takes us inside the world of pediatric oncology. A place filled with courage, heartbreak, hope, and breakthroughs that most people never hear about. From the rising rates of childhood cancer to the emotional weight families carry, she breaks down the truth behind the numbers and the real-life moments that matter most. This isn’t just a medical conversation… it’s a human one. ✨ In this episode, we discuss: • Why childhood cancer rates are increasing • The massive research gap affecting pediatric patients • How targeted therapies + new treatments are transforming outcomes • The emotional reality for parents, siblings, and caregivers • What children REALLY experience during treatment • The importance of play, support teams, and trauma awareness • Dr. Jess’s deeply personal “why” that fuels her work every day If you’ve ever wanted a clearer understanding of pediatric cancer and the hope that exists right now this episode will open your eyes and strengthen your heart.   Immortalize your voice by being an ALL TALK ONCOLOGY GUEST! Just fill-out this FORM. Invite Kenny Perkins to Speak or Participate on your event. Just fill-out this FORM.   SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS: All Talk Oncology: Instagram & Facebook JOIN OUR FREE COMMUNITY: Facebook Community WEBSITE: www.alltalkoncology.com

How do you turn a life-altering diagnosis into a life-affirming mission? In this deeply inspiring episode, Kenny Perkins speaks with Elissa, the powerhouse behind WeGotThis.org, who’s redefining what it means to live and thrive with stage 4 breast cancer. Diagnosed just after her daughter’s first birthday, Elissa shares how she found meaning in the chaos, leaned into community, and built a nonprofit to help others ask for and receive the help they need during cancer. Whether you’re a caregiver, patient, or someone navigating your own hard season, this is a must-listen. Key topics discussed: Navigating diagnosis during early motherhood and the pandemic Creating WeGotThis.org: A registry for cancer patients to ask for real help Redefining creativity, career, and identity in the face of cancer Mental health, chemo fatigue, and choosing treatment that prioritizes quality of life Supporting young children through a parent’s diagnosis Marriage, caregiving, and keeping connection alive in hard times Date nights, Air Force 1s, and Lego bouquets—her feel-good rituals Why prioritizing living is just as important as surviving Immortalize your voice by being an ALL TALK ONCOLOGY GUEST! Just fill-out this FORM. Invite Kenny Perkins to Speak or Participate on your event. Just fill-out this FORM.   SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS: All Talk Oncology: Instagram & Facebook JOIN OUR FREE COMMUNITY: Facebook Community WEBSITE: www.alltalkoncology.com

What does it take to create a nonprofit that moves fast, funds faster, and makes real impact? In this powerful episode, Kenny Perkins dives into the story of Kure It, a boutique nonprofit based in California that’s transforming cancer support especially for underfunded cancers and underserved communities. Joined by Brooke, Kerri, and Courtney, the women leading Kure It’s mission you’ll hear how this small but mighty team continues the legacy of founder Barry Hoeven, who battled kidney cancer for 18 years before passing the torch. From clinical trials to pickleball fundraisers, from million-dollar endowments to helping strangers find life-saving treatments, this episode reveals how focused compassion and community can change lives. Whether you’re navigating cancer or seeking ways to make a difference, this episode offers clarity, inspiration, and real-world action.   Key Topics Discussed How one man’s 18-year cancer battle created a ripple effect of hope Why Kure It only funds underfunded cancers like pancreatic, liver, and prostate How the RoundUp for Research program generates $600K+ in passive income What makes Kure It a "boutique nonprofit"—and why that matters Behind-the-scenes of approving clinical trial funding The work of the Women’s Guild: building community, fundraising, and fun Supporting underserved communities with screenings and outreach Why 100% of public donations go directly to research and patient support How Kure It is preparing for the future: AI, prevention, and global partnerships Immortalize your voice by being an ALL TALK ONCOLOGY GUEST! Just fill-out this FORM.   Invite Kenny Perkins to Speak or Participate on your event. Just fill-out this FORM.   SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS: All Talk Oncology: Instagram & Facebook JOIN OUR FREE COMMUNITY: Facebook Community WEBSITE: www.alltalkoncology.com

What happens when a music executive’s precision meets a life-changing diagnosis? In this candid episode of All Talk Oncology, Kenny Perkins sits down with Mathew Knowles—music executive, author of The DNA of Achievers, and male breast cancer survivor. A tiny sign on a white T-shirt (nipple discharge) led Mathew to insist on a mammogram, a Stage 1A diagnosis, surgery, and the discovery of a BRCA2 variant. Drawing on his 20-year background in medical imaging, he breaks down early detection, building a winning care team, and why he now lives by quarterly labs, therapy, movement, and joy. From COVID-era anxiety to laughter-filled nights with his wife, Mathew shares the mindset shifts and habits that helped him rebuild a life he loves—one mindful walk and measured plate at a time. Key Topics Discussed Men get breast cancer: the overlooked red flags (nipple discharge) and why Mathew demanded a mammogram BRCA2 explained: risk implications for men (melanoma, pancreatic, prostate, male breast cancer) and for women (breast, gynecologic) Diagnosed at Stage 1A: survival odds, surgery, and five years on Tamoxifen From isolation to a care team: oncologist, therapist, spiritual support—and why isolation increases risk COVID anxiety & mental health: therapy to confront fear of dying and regain balance Diet, weight loss (~40 lbs), and daily 2-mile brisk walks—“cancer loves obesity” Portion control and practical nutrition: measuring plates, lighter foods, consistent habits Quarterly labs for peace of mind (not just annual checkups); self-advocacy with your clinicians “Look out the window”: stillness, nature, laughter, and marriage strengthened through survivorship Family history & genetics: why genetic testing + knowing your lineage should start early Men’s health advocacy: PSA tests, breaking cultural conditioning, and getting over outdated fears   Immortalize your voice by being an ALL TALK ONCOLOGY GUEST! Just fill-out this FORM.   Invite Kenny Perkins to Speak or Participate on your event. Just fill-out this FORM.   SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS: All Talk Oncology: Instagram & Facebook JOIN OUR FREE COMMUNITY: Facebook Community WEBSITE: www.alltalkoncology.com

What happens when breast cancer collides with purpose—and a woman decides to fight for more than just herself? In this unflinching episode of All Talk Oncology, Kenny Perkins welcomes the fierce and faith-filled Sherell Kinsler, a Stage 4 metastatic breast cancer survivor, founder of Cherish Moments Inc., and passionate advocate for community health. Diagnosed during the pandemic with one of the deadliest forms of cancer, Sherell takes us deep into her journey—from fighting for a proper diagnosis, to losing her father to prostate cancer, to building a nonprofit that gives women hope in the form of wigs, rides, and prayer. With raw vulnerability and spiritual clarity, she shares the emotional toll of losing her breasts, choosing not to reconstruct, the harsh realities of chemo, and how she kept showing up for others even in her own storm. Whether you’re in treatment, caregiving, or simply trying to make sense of your own pain, this episode reminds you: there is purpose in your fight. Key Topics Discussed Why Black and Brown communities need better access and awareness around cancer screenings How Sherell’s request for a mammogram was denied months before her diagnosis What it’s like to go through chemo during COVID—completely alone The daily affirmations that gave her strength (“I shall not die. I shall live.”) Why she chose not to get reconstructive surgery after her double mastectomy The grief of watching her father pass away from prostate cancer just as she was healing How Cherish Moments Inc. provides rides, hope boxes, prayer, and support to cancer patients The emotional impact of feeling “forgotten” by her own community What it means to turn pain into purpose and be “boots on ground” Her plea to women: Get your checkup every year around your birthday Her plea to men: Don’t wait until you’re 50 to get a prostate exam Immortalize your voice by being an ALL TALK ONCOLOGY GUEST! Just fill-out this FORM.   SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS: All Talk Oncology: Instagram & Facebook JOIN OUR FREE COMMUNITY: Facebook Community WEBSITE: https://www.alltalkoncology.com

How do you hold space for both science and soul in the world of oncology? In this heartfelt and informative episode, Kenny Perkins welcomes Dr. Ina Patel—breast cancer specialist, assistant professor, and mom—who brings both medical insight and deep compassion to her work. Dr. Patel opens up about the emotional highs and lows of treating patients, especially young women facing aggressive breast cancer diagnoses. She shares how her own journey from immigrant child to pioneering physician shaped her purpose—and why creating a safe, human space for her patients is just as critical as the treatment plan. If you or someone you love has been touched by cancer, this episode is filled with wisdom, advocacy, and reminders that medicine, at its best, is deeply human. Key topics discussed: Treating young women with breast cancer and the unique emotional layers involved Why patient vulnerability is a privilege and how she holds space for it Her personal journey from immigrant to physician The rise of aggressive breast cancers in younger women The power of early detection and self-advocacy Barriers in diagnosis: when doctors dismiss breast lumps in young patients Genetic testing, mammograms, and how to bridge the gap in access A day in the life of an oncologist and working mom Creating a safe and empowering clinical environment How we can better educate both patients and providers Immortalize your voice by being an ALL TALK ONCOLOGY GUEST! Just fill-out this FORM.   SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS: All Talk Oncology: Instagram & Facebook JOIN OUR FREE COMMUNITY: Facebook Community WEBSITE: https://www.alltalkoncology.com  

What happens when a familiar face from your morning news shares the most personal story of his life? In this heartfelt episode, Kenny Perkins sits down with media icon Tony Perkins—known for his decades-long career on Good Morning America, Fox 5 DC, and stand-up stages—to share his emotional, unfiltered journey with prostate cancer. From early signs and diagnosis to surgery and recovery, Tony opens up about how routine checkups saved his life, what it felt like to wear a catheter, and why Black men must take their PSA scores seriously. He also reflects on the power of humor, faith, and a strong support system through one of life’s toughest battles. Whether you’re facing your own diagnosis or supporting someone who is, this is a must-listen for anyone needing hope, clarity, and a dose of resilience. Key Topics Discussed Why men—especially Black men—must stay on top of prostate health What Tony’s PSA test revealed and how early detection made the difference The emotional and physical toll of prostate surgery How humor became a healing tool during recovery The psychological impact of wearing a catheter and feeling “helpless” Why knowledge (not fear) is power when facing a cancer diagnosis How Tony’s wife and son became his emotional anchor Why men shouldn’t avoid the doctor out of fear of what they might find The blessing of post-op recovery, community prayer, and a new outlook on life Tony’s advice for anyone navigating cancer or a major health challenge   Immortalize your voice by being an ALL TALK ONCOLOGY GUEST! Just fill-out this FORM.   SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS: All Talk Oncology: Instagram & Facebook JOIN OUR FREE COMMUNITY: Facebook Community WEBSITE: https://www.alltalkoncology.com  

What happens when cancer strikes in your 20s or 30s? How do you navigate life-changing diagnoses during the most formative years of your life? In this powerful episode of All Talk Oncology, Kenny Perkins speaks with Dr. Venkataraman, a young adult cancer specialist at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, who is deeply committed to caring for patients with rare cancers like sarcoma. From the emotional trauma of delayed diagnoses to the complexities of survivorship, Dr. V shares how he supports patients not just through treatment—but through rediscovering their lives afterward. Key topics discussed: Why young adults are often diagnosed late—and what we can do about it How sarcoma differs from other cancers and why it's so misunderstood Treatment challenges: surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, and their impact Why survivorship care is just as important as treatment The mental health struggles cancer patients rarely talk about The role of personalized care: meeting patients where they are Advances in sarcoma research, clinical trials, and treatment protocols Empowering patients to take charge of their own journey Creative outlets for physicians: how Dr. V uses reflective writing to process the emotional weight of oncology   Immortalize your voice by being an ALL TALK ONCOLOGY GUEST! Just fill-out this FORM.   SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS: All Talk Oncology: Instagram & Facebook JOIN OUR FREE COMMUNITY: Facebook Community WEBSITE: https://www.alltalkoncology.com  

What happens when you’re forced to stop doing what you love—and rebuild your life from the inside out? In this deeply moving episode of All Talk Oncology, host Kenny Perkins sits down with Leah Adams, a melanoma survivor, passionate runner, and daughter of a stage four cancer fighter. Diagnosed at just 26 years old with Stage 1A melanoma, Leah shares how cancer interrupted her daily running routine—and how she eventually turned pain into power. From being unable to run post-surgery, to completing multiple marathons, Leah’s story is a powerful testament to the strength of the human spirit and the power of reframing your mindset. Whether it’s her honesty about guilt, body image, or mental recovery—this conversation is full of hard truths, healing lessons, and undeniable hope. Key points discussed: Leah’s diagnosis at age 26 and her emotional reaction to stopping running The surgeries she underwent and how melanoma impacted her body and mindset Why she believed she gave herself cancer—and how she forgave herself How running became both her therapy and her triumph The shift in self-talk and mindset that changed her emotional healing Her public vulnerability through social media and how it helped others Her journey through frequent skin checks, biopsies, and long-term follow-ups Crossing the five-year cancer-free mark and what that milestone meant Why she now advocates for skin checks and sun protection Her mission to use her story to spread awareness and hope   Immortalize your voice by being an ALL TALK ONCOLOGY GUEST! Just fill-out this FORM.   SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS: All Talk Oncology: Instagram & Facebook JOIN OUR FREE COMMUNITY: Facebook Community WEBSITE: https://www.alltalkoncology.com

What happens when you’re given just months to live—and decide not just to survive, but thrive? In this inspiring episode of All Talk Oncology, Kenny Perkins speaks with Jana Short, a woman who transformed a terminal diagnosis into a global mission of hope and holistic healing. After losing her stomach, surviving sepsis, and being fed intravenously for months, Jana made a choice to rewrite her story—starting with her mindset. From launching a magazine with over 1.8 million subscribers to becoming a coach and podcast host, Jana shares the journey that taught her how powerful the words we tell ourselves truly are. Key points discussed: Jana’s diagnosis and near-death experience with gastroparesis and sepsis How essential oils and holistic research sparked her healing path The mental shift that made survival possible—and sustainable Why she refuses to speak negatively about her body, even at her weakest The Yet Factor and how changing your language can unlock resilience Her raw and real story of unlearning self-judgment and embracing self-love Building Best Holistic Life Magazine from a Canva experiment to a global platform Lessons on aging joyfully and creating meaningful connections The power of receiving love—and believing you deserve it Immortalize your voice by being an ALL TALK ONCOLOGY GUEST! Just fill-out this FORM.   SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS: All Talk Oncology: Instagram & Facebook JOIN OUR FREE COMMUNITY: Facebook Community WEBSITE: https://www.alltalkoncology.com