Bridging the Gap: The Vital Role of Community for Those Affected By Cancer – Meet Stephanie Ciranni, Executive Director of Cancer Bridges

In episode forty of Everything Cancer, host Jill Squire welcomes Dr. Tiffany Troso-Sandoval, a highly experienced medical oncologist and founder of Winning the Cancer Journey and Second Look. Dr. Troso-Sandoval shares invaluable insights from her 25 years at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, where she became a trusted voice in women’s cancers. Our conversation with Dr. Troso-Sandoval is a perfect way to close October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month.Known for her candid, compassionate approach, Dr. Troso-Sandoval dives into the importance of whole-person care, discussing sensitive topics such as sexual health and survivorship—areas that often go unaddressed yet impact quality of life profoundly.Listeners will appreciate Dr. Troso-Sandoval’s perspective on navigating complex cancer care systems, the benefits of second opinions, and strategies to build transparent, effective communication with oncologists and advanced practice providers. She underscores the power of patient education in reducing stress and fostering trust, making a compelling case for self-advocacy and resilience. She emphasizes the importance of informed, collaborative care.Whether you’re a survivor, caregiver, or healthcare provider, Dr. Troso-Sandoval’s reflections on balancing expert guidance with personal resilience offer a fresh perspective on thriving through the cancer journey. Tune in for a deeply empowering conversation. Dr. Troso-Sandoval’s LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/tiffany-troso-sandoval-md-b897a017Dr. Troso-Sandoval’s  email:  [email protected]. Troso-Sandoval’s Winning the Cancer Journey website: https://www.winningthecancerjourney.com/Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center About Herbs, Botanicals, and Other Products https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/diagnosis-treatment/symptom-management/integrative-medicine/herbsSupport the showThank you for listening. We would love to hear your thoughts about this episode. We want to hear from you: what topics you would like to have discussed or a guest you would like to see featured in future episodes. This show is here for you. Email us at [email protected] The information on this podcast is not intended to be used for medical advice. For any health care concerns you have please consult with your healthcare team. The staff at Everything Cancer podcast will not be answering health individual health care concern questions. Consider giving your support for ongoing content and interviews for this podcast through our Patreon Page for Everything Cancer or the Everything Cancer website. Our sponsor: H2Ocean - makers of quality sea-salt products for over 20 years! www.H2Ocean.com www.Chemo-Mouth.comSea Salt Healing Rinse https://h2ocean.com/oral-care/Here is the link for the acclaimed cancer self-advocacy guide by Jill Squire, host of Everything Cancer Podcast "Cancer Journey Guide and Journals: Empowerment in Diagno...

Join us for an inspiring and eye-opening episode of Everything Cancer, where we sit down with Lisa Spencer, a certified breast care navigator with over 40 years of oncology experience. Lisa opens up about her vital role in guiding breast cancer patients from diagnosis through treatment, offering compassionate, hands-on support every step of the way. Whether you or a loved one are navigating a breast cancer diagnosis, or simply want to hear from someone who has dedicated their life to helping others, this episode is a must-listen. Lisa shares invaluable advice on self-advocacy, avoiding rash decisions, and accessing trusted resources. Plus, hear how her own experience as a lymphoma survivor shapes her work and empowers others to live fully through their cancer journey. Don’t miss this powerful conversation!Support the showThank you for listening. We would love to hear your thoughts about this episode. We want to hear from you: what topics you would like to have discussed or a guest you would like to see featured in future episodes. This show is here for you. Email us at [email protected] The information on this podcast is not intended to be used for medical advice. For any health care concerns you have please consult with your healthcare team. The staff at Everything Cancer podcast will not be answering health individual health care concern questions. Consider giving your support for ongoing content and interviews for this podcast through our Patreon Page for Everything Cancer or the Everything Cancer website. Our sponsor: H2Ocean - makers of quality sea-salt products for over 20 years! www.H2Ocean.com www.Chemo-Mouth.comSea Salt Healing Rinse https://h2ocean.com/oral-care/Here is the link for the acclaimed cancer self-advocacy guide by Jill Squire, host of Everything Cancer Podcast "Cancer Journey Guide and Journals: Empowerment in Diagno...

In compelling episode 38 of Everything Cancer, we meet Kiana—Kiki—Wooten, a breast cancer survivor who went from stoic and shy to modeling as a vibrant flat-chested breast cancer survivor. Diagnosed at just 34 years old, Kiki’s journey through invasive ductal carcinoma was filled with life-altering challenges—sepsis, difficult reconstruction choices, not being heard, and inadvertent missteps in communication with her daughter when unexpectedly hospitalized during the pandemic.Her story reveals the courage required to choose a flat chest after multiple complications with implants. Through it all, Kiki found strength in self-advocacy and the support of her husband and daughter. She shares how breast cancer not only changed her body but also reshaped her life, acting as a catalyst to confront past traumas and regrets,  emerging as a more compassionate and open person.Kiki’s voice, grounded in her experience and challenges as a Black woman navigating the healthcare system, speaks to the power of resilience and of the shared experience with other survivors. Tune in to hear her inspiring message of hope, healing, and the strength to embrace both scars and life after breast cancer.Email KiKi, Kiana at [email protected] Kiki’s LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/kiana-wooten-4700a12a4The Breast Decision a book by Kiana WootenTiger Lily FoundationA national women’s health and oncology organization providing education, awareness, advocacy and hands-on support to young women (15-50) before, during and after cancer.Support the showThank you for listening. We would love to hear your thoughts about this episode. We want to hear from you: what topics you would like to have discussed or a guest you would like to see featured in future episodes. This show is here for you. Email us at [email protected] The information on this podcast is not intended to be used for medical advice. For any health care concerns you have please consult with your healthcare team. The staff at Everything Cancer podcast will not be answering health individual health care concern questions. Consider giving your support for ongoing content and interviews for this podcast through our Patreon Page for Everything Cancer or the Everything Cancer website. Our sponsor: H2Ocean - makers of quality sea-salt products for over 20 years! www.H2Ocean.com www.Chemo-Mouth.comSea Salt Healing Rinse https://h2ocean.com/oral-care/Here is the link for the acclaimed cancer self-advocacy guide by Jill Squire, host of Everything Cancer Podcast "Cancer Journey Guide and Journals: Empowerment in Diagno...

Welcome to Everything Cancer! In this episode, we’re joined by Terry Healey, a Head and Neck cancer survivor, public speaker, and bestselling author whose journey is nothing short of inspiring. At just 21, Terry faced a rare and life-changing cancer that affected his appearance, leading him to retreat from the world. Eventually tired of hiding, Terry deliberately took his life back by working out, relying on sheer determination and resilience. He thrived, reclaiming both his confidence and his life. He graduated college, had a family, and succeeded in tech industry sales.Terry’s journey is about much more than overcoming adversity—it’s about transformation. His perseverance, combined with a mission to help others, has shaped his purpose: to inspire those facing challenges to overcome adversity and live fully. Tune in as Terry shares his journey and insights that are sure to inspire and uplift.Terry’s email address – [email protected] ; for those interested in joining his newsletter and getting notified about his forthcoming book, send an email to [email protected] with the subject line “newsletter”Terry’s resources web page - https://terryhealey.com/?page_id=8 (for support, research and information about facial disfigurement)Cancer Support Community - https://www.cancersupportcommunity.org/About Face https://aboutface.ca/about/ About Face’s vision is the elimination of the stigma and discrimination encountered by individuals with a facial difference.My Face www.myface.org My face Is beautifulFace Equality International https://faceequalityinternational.org/Support the showThank you for listening. We would love to hear your thoughts about this episode. We want to hear from you: what topics you would like to have discussed or a guest you would like to see featured in future episodes. This show is here for you. Email us at [email protected] The information on this podcast is not intended to be used for medical advice. For any health care concerns you have please consult with your healthcare team. The staff at Everything Cancer podcast will not be answering health individual health care concern questions. Consider giving your support for ongoing content and interviews for this podcast through our Patreon Page for Everything Cancer or the Everything Cancer website. Our sponsor: H2Ocean - makers of quality sea-salt products for over 20 years! www.H2Ocean.com www.Chemo-Mouth.comSea Salt Healing Rinse https://h2ocean.com/oral-care/Here is the link for the acclaimed cancer self-advocacy guide by Jill Squire, host of Everything Cancer Podcast "Cancer Journey Guide and Journals: Empowerment in Diagno...

Dr. Eugene Manley, PhD, through his SCHEQ (STEMM Cancer Health Equity) Foundation, is dedicated to addressing disparities in lung cancer research, screening, lung cancer care for underserved communities and patients, and STEMM careers.In the 36th episode of the Everything Cancer Podcast, Dr. Eugene Manley, PhD, joins us to discuss the important work shared through the 2nd Lung Cancer Health Equity Summit: Black and Latino Patients Navigating Lung Cancer - Stepping Stones to EquityThe summit focuses on implementing real-world solutions to improve lung cancer research, screening, care access, and outcomes. Dr. Manley’s mission is to move beyond discussions of inequity and provide a forum for actionable strategies to reduce disparities and improve outcomes.Dr. Manley aims to bring together healthcare professionals, researchers, patients, and community leaders to share best practices and build partnerships. Topics include expanding screening access, addressing clinical trial diversity, navigating lung cancer, improving access to care, and increasing representation in lung cancer cell lines. The importance of sincere and ongoing community engagement and trust-building is discussed. In their conversation, Dr. Manley and Jill cover the critical nature of including diverse populations in clinical trials and research to ensure effective therapies across all demographics.Dr. Manley highlights in this conversation how the summit is designed for attendees to bring back solutions to their own communities, practices, and organizations. It is intended to foster collaboration and innovation in cancer screening and care for underserved populations. Patients will be empowered and witness living proof there are many motivated people in their corner. 2nd Lung Cancer Health Equity Summit Registration:https://tinyurl.com/LCHESSubmit a poster:https://tinyurl.com/LCHESPosterDr. Eugene Manley, PhD, LinkedIn Info: https://lnkd.in/e-WinBTT#LungCancerScreening#EquityInLungCancerScreening#EquityInLungCancerCare#EquityInLungCancerResearch#ClinicalTrialAccessSupport the showThank you for listening. We would love to hear your thoughts about this episode. We want to hear from you: what topics you would like to have discussed or a guest you would like to see featured in future episodes. This show is here for you. Email us at [email protected] The information on this podcast is not intended to be used for medical advice. For any health care concerns you have please consult with your healthcare team. The staff at Everything Cancer podcast will not be answering health individual health care concern questions. Consider giving your support for ongoing content and interviews for this podcast through our Patreon Page for Everything Cancer or the Everything Cancer website. Our sponsor: H2Ocean - makers of quality sea-salt products for over 20 years! www.H2Ocean.com www.Chemo-Mouth.comSea Salt Healing Rinse https://h2ocean.com/oral-care/Here is the link for the acclaimed cancer self-advocacy guide by Jill Squire, host of Everything Cancer Podcast "Cancer Journey Guide and Journals: Empowerment in Diagno...

Welcome to Everything Cancer! Today, we’re joined by Rochelle Prosser, a powerhouse in patient advocacy and cancer navigation who’s making waves in cancer survivorship:She is the founder of Orchid Health Solutions and Prosser Cancer Library, dedicated to innovation, dignity, and the dismantling of disparity in cancer care delivery.We find part of her motivation is deeply personal, in her daughter's own battle with cancer—an especially poignant story during Childhood Cancer Month, while also supporting her spouse in his own cancer diagnosis and journey.Rochelle is on the front lines of shaping health policy, protecting patient privacy, and ensuring that every voice is heard. She gives a shout-out to Environmental Services.  Sept 8 - 14 2024, is Environmental Services Week in recognition of their vital role in patient care. Get ready to be inspired by Rochelle’s motivation and insights as she unpacks the complexities of healthcare legislation and the groundbreaking Cancer X Moonshot.Rochelle’s Linkslinkedin.com/in/rochelleprosserHealth Information Technology Advisory Committee Article ORCHID HEALTHCARE SOLUTIONSORCHID is defined as the Organization for Research and Clinical Cancer Health Innovation in Dignity and dismantling of Disparity in care.From Rochelle Prosser:"I know intimately that to navigate oncology requires distinct healthcare system understanding, effective provider-patient communication,  and how to find and navigate solutions when all else has failed. It is a journey not to take alone."Support the showThank you for listening. We would love to hear your thoughts about this episode. We want to hear from you: what topics you would like to have discussed or a guest you would like to see featured in future episodes. This show is here for you. Email us at [email protected] The information on this podcast is not intended to be used for medical advice. For any health care concerns you have please consult with your healthcare team. The staff at Everything Cancer podcast will not be answering health individual health care concern questions. Consider giving your support for ongoing content and interviews for this podcast through our Patreon Page for Everything Cancer or the Everything Cancer website. Our sponsor: H2Ocean - makers of quality sea-salt products for over 20 years! www.H2Ocean.com www.Chemo-Mouth.comSea Salt Healing Rinse https://h2ocean.com/oral-care/Here is the link for the acclaimed cancer self-advocacy guide by Jill Squire, host of Everything Cancer Podcast "Cancer Journey Guide and Journals: Empowerment in Diagno...

They keep it real, relatable, and full of passion: True Grit In this heartfelt and candid episode of Everything Cancer, we sit down with Dr. Sam Siegel, a pediatrician, and Dr. Sam Siegel, an onco-generalist doing the heavy lift of starting a survivorship practice. Both doctors are not only healthcare providers but also cancer survivors who each experienced tough treatments and parents to three busy kids. Sam and Sam candidly discuss their personal cancer journeys and the complexities of balancing family life with their professional and personal health challenges. Mortality is a topic that is not off the table in their household out of hard-earned necessity.They discuss the importance of self-advocacy—a topic they frequently address in public speaking, emphasizing the crucial nature of asking questions and not being afraid to seek second opinions.Dr. Sam Siegel talks about her pioneering onco-generalist survivorship program at Kaiser, which aims to integrate supportive care from the time of diagnosis, focusing on the quality of life, especially for those living with metastatic cancer. They both stress the need for comprehensive, multidisciplinary approaches that go beyond merely extending life to truly enhancing it. We discuss the importance of being vital at all stages of one’s journey.Their beloved dog, Darla, occasionally weighs in on the conversation.Tune in to hear how the Siegels navigate the ups and downs of cancer, parenting, and building a better future for survivors. Their story is a powerful testament to resilience and the relentless pursuit of living fully, no matter the circumstances.  Dr. Samantha Siegel's LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/samantha-siegel-md-240341291What About Primary Care by Dr. Samantha Siegel and Dr. Rebecca Eary in the September issue of Elephants and TeaSupport the showThank you for listening. We would love to hear your thoughts about this episode. We want to hear from you: what topics you would like to have discussed or a guest you would like to see featured in future episodes. This show is here for you. Email us at [email protected] The information on this podcast is not intended to be used for medical advice. For any health care concerns you have please consult with your healthcare team. The staff at Everything Cancer podcast will not be answering health individual health care concern questions. Consider giving your support for ongoing content and interviews for this podcast through our Patreon Page for Everything Cancer or the Everything Cancer website. Our sponsor: H2Ocean - makers of quality sea-salt products for over 20 years! www.H2Ocean.com www.Chemo-Mouth.comSea Salt Healing Rinse https://h2ocean.com/oral-care/Here is the link for the acclaimed cancer self-advocacy guide by Jill Squire, host of Everything Cancer Podcast "Cancer Journey Guide and Journals: Empowerment in Diagno...

In this episode of Everything Cancer, we’re joined by Stephanie Ciranni, the dynamic Executive Director of Cancer Bridges, in Pittsburgh, PA, Everything Cancer host Jill's hometown. If you’re a cancer survivor or your life has been altered by cancer, Stephanie encourages you to explore local cancer support organizations in your area and  connect with resources like Cancer Bridges to experience the profound difference they can make.  With over 200 programs and services offered monthly, Cancer Bridges serves not just those diagnosed with cancer but also their families, caregivers, and the bereaved with a warm and welcoming sanctuary that offers emotional, social, and wellness support.Stephanie emphasizes the unique and transformative power of Cancer Bridges, highlighting how survivors benefit from connecting with others who truly understand their journey. Whether through support groups, creative classes, or one-on-one counseling, Cancer Bridges offers a safe space where everyone—from newly diagnosed patients to long-term survivors to stressed caregivers to children of a parent with cancer—can find comfort, community, and hope.With a compassionate approach and a diverse array of programs, Cancer Bridges stands as a testament to the strength found in shared experiences and the vital importance of community in the cancer journey. Don’t navigate this alone—dip your toe in and discover the support waiting for you.Contact Stephanie at [email protected] Bridges Programs at Cancer Bridges Cancer Bridges FacebookCancer Bridges InstagramCancerCare.org - National online support and resource organizationJust for fun:The Pittsburgh (Yinzer) AccentSupport the showThank you for listening. We would love to hear your thoughts about this episode. We want to hear from you: what topics you would like to have discussed or a guest you would like to see featured in future episodes. This show is here for you. Email us at [email protected] The information on this podcast is not intended to be used for medical advice. For any health care concerns you have please consult with your healthcare team. The staff at Everything Cancer podcast will not be answering health individual health care concern questions. Consider giving your support for ongoing content and interviews for this podcast through our Patreon Page for Everything Cancer or the Everything Cancer website. Our sponsor: H2Ocean - makers of quality sea-salt products for over 20 years! www.H2Ocean.com www.Chemo-Mouth.comSea Salt Healing Rinse https://h2ocean.com/oral-care/Here is the link for the acclaimed cancer self-advocacy guide by Jill Squire, host of Everything Cancer Podcast "Cancer Journey Guide and Journals: Empowerment in Diagno...

In episode 32 of Everything Cancer, we delve into the impactful work of Prisma Health Cancer Institute's Center for Integrative Oncology Survivorship and Center for Cancer Prevention and Wellness.  Jason King, Assistant Manager at the Center, takes us on a tour, explaining how they’ve expanded over the past 11 years with the growing recognition of the need for whole-person survivorship care. The center has grown from a small team of three into a bustling team of 33 dedicated, multidisciplinary members.Their comprehensive program offers a wide range of services tailored to cancer survivors, from diagnosis through three to five years after treatment.The Center focuses on whole-person care, addressing survivors' physical, emotional, and practical challenges. With services like oncology rehab, dietitian, sexual health, and social work visits, the Center is designed to meet whole-person survivors' needs during and after treatment. This integrative approach ensures that survivors receive the support they need to navigate life through and beyond cancer treatment.A key highlight is the Center’s Lifetime Clinics, which serve as an "oncology home" for patients three to five years post-treatment. These clinics provide ongoing care, helping survivors manage long-term effects and maintain their health.Jason discusses the importance of integrative oncology. By treating the whole person and collaborating with external resources, such as acupuncture and massage therapy, when needed, the Center ensures that survivors feel heard, supported, and empowered throughout their journey.This episode is essential listening for anyone interested in how whole-person, survivor-centered care can significantly improve quality of life. Tune in to learn how Jason and his team are making a meaningful difference in the lives of cancer survivors by offering a comprehensive model of care that truly puts the patient first.Jason's email address: [email protected] Health Center for Integrative Oncology and SurvivorshipSupport the showThank you for listening. We would love to hear your thoughts about this episode. We want to hear from you: what topics you would like to have discussed or a guest you would like to see featured in future episodes. This show is here for you. Email us at [email protected] The information on this podcast is not intended to be used for medical advice. For any health care concerns you have please consult with your healthcare team. The staff at Everything Cancer podcast will not be answering health individual health care concern questions. Consider giving your support for ongoing content and interviews for this podcast through our Patreon Page for Everything Cancer or the Everything Cancer website. Our sponsor: H2Ocean - makers of quality sea-salt products for over 20 years! www.H2Ocean.com www.Chemo-Mouth.comSea Salt Healing Rinse https://h2ocean.com/oral-care/Here is the link for the acclaimed cancer self-advocacy guide by Jill Squire, host of Everything Cancer Podcast "Cancer Journey Guide and Journals: Empowerment in Diagno...

In episode 31 of Everything Cancer, we sit down with the gracious and perseverant Mark Kagayama, inspiring host of the YouTube channel 2BYourOwnHero. Mark shares his incredible journey from being a health-conscious vegan to facing a life-altering diagnosis of stage IV cancer. He takes us on his odyssey with him, with his genuine and unique style of insight, that makes his experience incredibly relatable. Mark's grace and good humor shine through, even in the telling of his darkest days.Despite the grim prognosis from his oncologist, Mark refused to accept defeat and embarked on a mission to find his own path to healing.Through relentless research, networking with cancer survivors worldwide, and embracing a new diet, Mark discovered the power of integrative care and the importance of living with purpose. His story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of community. Tune in to hear how Mark created purpose to face each day in his darkest of times, molding a platform to inspire and support others facing similar battles. Learn why he believes there's always hope as long as you keep living and fighting.This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking inspiration, practical advice, and a reminder that no matter the odds, there is always a way forward.2BYourOwnHero YouTube Channel Marks' email: [email protected]'s Caring Bridge BlogSupport the showThank you for listening. We would love to hear your thoughts about this episode. We want to hear from you: what topics you would like to have discussed or a guest you would like to see featured in future episodes. This show is here for you. Email us at [email protected] The information on this podcast is not intended to be used for medical advice. For any health care concerns you have please consult with your healthcare team. The staff at Everything Cancer podcast will not be answering health individual health care concern questions. Consider giving your support for ongoing content and interviews for this podcast through our Patreon Page for Everything Cancer or the Everything Cancer website. Our sponsor: H2Ocean - makers of quality sea-salt products for over 20 years! www.H2Ocean.com www.Chemo-Mouth.comSea Salt Healing Rinse https://h2ocean.com/oral-care/Here is the link for the acclaimed cancer self-advocacy guide by Jill Squire, host of Everything Cancer Podcast "Cancer Journey Guide and Journals: Empowerment in Diagno...