Episodes
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Research and testing are crucial parts of developing new cancer treatments. Clinical trials are how we achieve that research and testing. Cancer clinical trials test new drugs, radiation therapy techniques and surgical procedures. They help us determine what treatments are best for different cancers. That's why it's so important for a diverse group of people to participate in clinical trials.
Listen in to hear me discuss the basics of clinical trials.
What You'll Learn:
It's crucial that cancer patients participate in clinical trials (1:40)
Dr. Rosalyn defines what a clinical trial is. (2:08)
There are four phases of cancer clinical trials. (3:00)
Screening, behavioral, prevention, diagnostic, treatment, and quality of life are the different types of clinical trials. (4:30)
Participating in a clinical trial is a very personal decision. (8:20)
"Clinical trials help us so much in terms of learning about different treatments for cancer." - Dr. Rosalyn Morrell
"Clinical trials need a diversity of participants. Men, women, ethnicities, and ages. " - Dr. Rosalyn
Resources:
Rosalyn Morrell, MD: Website
Links:
Website
Facebook
Instagram
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A lot of people care about their health, but the fear of the unknown can sometimes stop them from being screened for cancer. One way to help is by holding free cancer screenings. Volunteers help put people at ease through education. Free cancer screenings also make the process more accessible to people who otherwise can't afford medical care.
Listen in to hear me discuss a recent prostate cancer screening event I participated in where over one hundred people got screened.
What You'll Learn:
Dr. Rosalyn describes the importance of free cancer screenings. (1:30)
Volunteers are essential to a successful free cancer screening event. (4:00)
Some prostate cancer survivors volunteered. (5:45)
The pandemic caused people to delay their cancer screenings. (7:15)
"Free cancer screenings are so beneficial for people who don't have access to medical care." - Dr. Rosalyn Morrell
"Cancer prevention is extremely important and cancer screenings are a big part of that." - Dr. Rosalyn
Resources:
Rosalyn Morrell, MD: Website
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After several misdiagnoses, Jen Singer was diagnosed with stage 3 non-Hodgkin lymphoma. During her treatment, she was blogging about parenthood for Good Housekeeping and began writing about her cancer experience. That inspired her to become a full-time medical writer.
Listen in to learn more about Jen's journey with cancer, COVID, and heart failure. You'll also hear in detail how she's used empathy to become an award-winning medical writer.
What You'll Learn:
Jen Singer is introduced. (2:35)
There were several misdiagnoses before Jen got diagnosed with stage 3 non-Hodgkin lymphoma. (4:05)
After being rushed to the hospital, Jen got a second opinion. (9:45)
When she finally got the correct diagnosis, Jen's first thoughts were her daughters. (11:00)
Having an honest doctor was everything for Jen. (13:48)
After recovering from COVID, Jen went into heart failure. (16:45)
Jen laughs about learning the difference between the oncology floor and cardiology floor. (18:50)
The term heart failure is terrifying for many people. (22:10)
Anger is a common feeling when patients have multiple big diagnoses in their life. (23:00)
Asking smart, specific questions about your treatment is important. (26:45)
Seeing terrified patients, Jen was inspired to create "The Just Diagnosed Guides" (27:40)
"How is it for you today?" is a great question to ask patients. (30:26)
Healthcare providers need to be careful about what they say. (33:25)
Ideas worth sharing:
"I wrote a script to call different pulmonologist offices." - Jen Singer
"When you see something concerning, doctors should say, "That's odd we should investigate." - Dr. Rosalyn Morrell
"The whole thing was how can I get the right treatment as fast as possible, and how can I protect my family from people saying things that aren't always helpful." - Jen Singer
"Googling your symptoms is never a good idea when you don't know what you're looking for." - Jen Singer
"The more dangerous the diagnosis, the more opinions you should seek." - Jen Singer
"We're taught how to be healthy, not how to be sick." - Jen Singer
Resources:
Rosalyn Morrell, MD: Website
Jen Singer: Website
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As you may know, October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, so today we will be talking about everything breast surgery with Dr. Elizabeth Arena. Elizabeth is a great friend of mine that I’ve had the pleasure of working with over the years, and I’m excited to have her on the podcast to share some of her insight and expertise in the area of breast surgery. It’s a huge subject to cover, but she will shed light on and introduce things like lumpectomy, mastectomy, and more.
You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://cancerfromatoz.com/episodes/6
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Bone metastases can happen to many people who have cancer. They are most common in people who have breast cancer or prostate cancer. Bone metastases are often painful which is why it's so important to get an early diagnosis to reduce a patient's pain.
Listen in to learn what to expect after being diagnosed with bone metastases. You'll also learn about the different types of bone metastases, the diagnosis process and treatment options.
What You'll Learn:
Bone metastases are different from bone cancer. (2:00) Our bodies are always breaking down and building bone. (4:00) There are three types of bone metastases: osteolytic, osteoblastic and mixed. (4:45) The most common symptom is pain. But fractures and elevated calcium levels can also occur. (7:18) Pain from bone metastases is constant and really hard to relieve without treatment. (9:05) To get a diagnosis doctors will typically order x-rays and other scans. (10:10) The most important thing is to get the pain under control as quickly as possible. (14:30) Medications that inhibit the processes of bone resorption are sometimes prescribed. (17:00) Radiation therapy and radionuclide therapy are two other ways to treat bone metastases. (18:00) Radionuclide is when a patient is injected with radioisotopes for pain relief. (22:24)Ideas worth sharing:
"Though bone metastases are common in certain types of cancer they're possible in all types of cancer." - Dr. Rosalyn Morrell
"If you're experiencing pain, we want to get the pain under control as quickly as possible." - Dr. Rosalyn Morrell
"Usually you can get very rapid pain relief from radiation therapy." - Dr. Rosalyn Morrell
"Which form of therapy you receive is dependent upon your clinical scenario." - Dr. Rosalyn Morrell
"If you have cancer and are feeling pain that feels like it's arising from a bone, inform your healthcare provider. You want to be diagnosed sooner rather than later." - Dr. Rosalyn Morrell
Resources:
Rosalyn Morrell, MD: Website
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Dr. Corinne Deurdulian is a radiologist at the VA Medical Center in Los Angeles who is committed to improving radiology care for veterans. She has revised many of the MRI and CT protocols, as well as adding new protocols while practicing at the VA Medical Center. She joins the show today to share her passion for medicine and radiology, and discuss how important it is to put together the pieces.
You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://cancerfromatoz.com/episodes/3
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Brain tumors don't get the same amount of attention as the other types of cancers. But they are still very important to talk about. My guest today is Dr. Daniel F. Kelly, a neurosurgeon and founder of Pacific Neuroscience Institute.
Listen in to learn about Daniel's non-linear path to becoming a neurosurgeon. You'll also hear how the Pacific Neuroscience Institute uses keyhole surgery to reduce the amount of time patients need to stay in the hospital.
What You'll Learn:
We learn about Dr. Daniel F. Kelly and his background. (2:00) Daniel explains his non-linear path to becoming a neurosurgeon. (3:40) I recount some of my experiences with neurosurgeons. (5:30) Seeing a gap in specialized neuro-oncology at St. John's Cancer Institute, Daniel helped found the Pacific Neuroscience Institute. (6:00) Daniel describes the types of tumors he sees most and how that's changed over time. (8:15) We hear how Daniel got interested in pituitary tumors. (10:20) Pacific Neuroscience Institute uses a lot of collaboration to give the patient the best care (13:05) We hear how patients' pathways may differ when treated by Daniel. (14:26) Not every brain tumor patient requires surgery. (17:20) The essence of keyhole surgery is to sneak in and sneak out. (18:36) Daniel explains how surgery has evolved throughout his career. (21:30) Not every neurosurgeon specializes in keyhole surgery. (22:00) The COVID-19 pandemic reduced the amount of time neuro-patients stayed in hospitals post surgery. (24:30) Neuro-patients are incredibly brave and resilient. (27:16) Daniel explains how he collaborates with different specialists. (30:00) There are some exciting advances happening in neurosurgery. (32:00) Pacific Neuroscience Institute is looking for a cure for Glioblastoma. (35:05) Psychedelic assisted therapy is currently having a renaissance. (36:30) Daniel describes various studies on psychedelic assisted therapy. (39:14) We discuss the Netflix show 'How to Change Your Mind'. (44:00)Ideas worth sharing:
"Not everyone who has a brain tumor needs surgery." - Dr. Daniel F. Kelly
"The essence of Keyhole Surgery is to sneak in and sneak out with minimum collateral damage." - Dr. Daniel F. Kelly
"Managing patient expectations is important for all areas of oncology." - Dr. Rosalyn Morrell
"All of my patients teach me so much. We think we're teaching them and educating them -- but a lot of times it's the other way around." - Dr. Rosalyn Morrell
Resources:
Dr. June Wiley: USC Pacific Neuroscience Institute: Website Dr. Daniel F. Kelly: Email -
Getting a cancer diagnosis can be a very uncertain time in someone’s life. Questions can arise as thoughts and minds race to understand the news. With all of that uncertainty, sometimes we may forget some of the basic things we need to know for an appointment with a physician. We understand and it can be a lot to take in. In this episode, we are going to cover what your oncologist wants you to know to make your time with them easier.
Listen in to learn about six crucial things to know when visiting your oncologist. You will hear some advice you may already know and some advice you may have never thought about.
Save this episode for future reference or share it with those you know and you can use it as a quick checklist to be prepared for your next visit.
What You’ll Learn:
The importance of knowing your past medical history when meeting with your medical physician. (1.29) Why physicians need to know your list of medications. (2:55) Overcoming language barriers. (4:00) As physicians, we are completely ok if patients want to seek a second opinion. (6:06) Why I believe it’s better to ask more questions. (8:12) Honesty is nothing to be embarrassed about. (10:33) I share my final thoughts. (12:23)Ideas Worth Sharing:
“It is probably safe to not assume that the physician you are seeing or their office staff speaks your language…if English is not your primary language.” - Dr. Rosalyn Morrell
“If you hear from another physician the same thing that I’ve told you, then that kind of makes it a little bit easier for you to decide—and that’s totally ok.” - Dr. Rosalyn Morrell
“The more comfortable you are with what we are recommending, the better everyone is going to be in terms of the relationship and even in terms of the treatment outcome.” - Dr. Rosalyn Morrell
Resources:
Rosalyn Morrell, MD: Websitehttps://www.centerpointoncology.com/
Caregiver Website
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Caregiving can be one of the most important roles a person can take on. These amazing individuals really step up and take on the responsibility of taking care of those who have been diagnosed with chronic illnesses or acute illnesses. In this episode, I wanted to bring these often unsung heroes into the spotlight and share some of the incredible work they do behind the scenes.
Listen in to learn about the role caregivers have, some of the challenges and issues surrounding caregiving, and what caregivers can do to set themselves up for success. You will hear some of the key responsibilities that caregivers take on and come out with a better understanding of everything that’s involved with caregiving.
What You’ll Learn:
Why I believe caregivers are some of the most important people in the lives of those with cancer. (1:51) What is involved with caregiving? (3:10) Addressing the daily stress of being a caregiver. (7:27) The importance of sharing the responsibilities of caregiving. (9:16) Social workers or professional caregivers play a critical role. (10:30) The different types of caregivers. (11:42) List-making can help caregivers prioritize the most important tasks. (13:30) Learning about the disease can help caregivers have a better understanding of what the patient is going through. (15:59) Physical care might not be as intuitive as you might think. (17:45) What will be covered in the next episode, Caregiving 101, Part 2. (19:45)Ideas Worth Sharing:
“There can be quite a bit that’s involved with caregiving, including (1) helping to make appointments…(2) administering medications…(3) [helping] with meals or cleaning…(4) [helping] to manage side effects…(5) helping with insurance and paying bills…(6) daily activities…and (7) running errands.” - Dr. Rosalyn Morrell
“One of the most important things about being a caregiver is you have to remember to take care of yourself.” - Dr. Rosalyn Morrell
“Communication is really important [when it comes to caregiving]. If there’s a breakdown in communication, all types of [unexpected] things can happen.” - Dr. Rosalyn Morrell
Resources:
Rosalyn Morrell, MD: Websitehttps://www.centerpointoncology.com/
Caregiver Website
https://www.caregiver.org/ Episode 6: Everything You Wanted To Know About Breast Surgery with Dr. Elizabeth Arena
https://www.cancerfromatoz.com/episodes/6 Episode 17: From Cancer to Cameras; My Cancer Journey with Beth Young
https://www.cancerfromatoz.com/episodes/17 Episode 12: Curing Breast Cancer with Radiation Therapy
https://www.cancerfromatoz.com/episodes/12 Episode 20: Oncology Social Workers Are Just As Important As Chemo Therapy and Radiation with Dr. June Wileyhttps://www.cancerfromatoz.com/episodes/20
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Getting a cancer diagnosis is never easy especially if it comes without warning. My guest today is JW Cheatham, a prostate cancer survivor, and a family friend. JW is Project Compliance and Management Consultant who has spent the last 25 years in the Space Satellite Technology field. Hearing about someone’s cancer journey can really help convey a different aspect or a unique viewpoint from that of someone such as myself.
Listen in as JW reveals what his experience was like going through his own cancer journey and his advice for others on a similar path. You will hear how JW came to his “pause point” when he found out he had cancer, how he weighed his options for treatment, and what life was like after his prostatectomy. He also shares why he believes it’s crucial to get a full health check-up early on rather than waiting till later in life.
What You’ll Learn:
Why I think it’s important to have interviews with people who’ve gone through their own cancer journey. (2:12) What to look out for when approaching retirement age, medically speaking. (4:13) Reasons why it’s critical to have the prostate gland checked periodically. (8:02) JW reveals how his health care provider explained JW’s Gleason Score. (9:25) The value of talking to others around us about what we’re going through. (13:05) JW wasn’t overwhelmed with all of the options and where he was with his decision on how to move forward. (18:11) The possibility of recurrence after JW’s surgery. (20:02) Life after surgery. (23:23) Although JW was informed about what he would expect after surgery, he feels the details weren’t there. (27:24) The pre-op discussion about the differences between incontinence and erectile dysfunction. (30:21) The importance of honesty in healthcare. (32:45) How JW is feeling today and what advice he’s given to others. (35:17) Incontinence was easier for JW at night. (38:50) The difficulties of dealing with erectile dysfunction. (42:30) Talking about “it” helps you get over “it.” (45:01) The benefits of connecting with others who’ve gone through similar experiences. (47:44) JW shares his final thoughts. (51:12)Ideas Worth Sharing:
“We’re always looking for pain as an indicator that you have a problem of some sort, and that was not really the case.” - JW Cheatham
“There’s a pause point that you get to when someone says, ‘You have cancer.’ It makes you stop.” - JW Cheatham
“I think it’s better to talk to people every chance you get [about what you’re going through].” - JW Cheatham
“Your body has its own time to heal… [but] you have to get past your own thoughts.” - JW Cheatham
“I think it’s really important as healthcare providers that we be very honest about what are the potential side effects [and] what are the potential toxicities associated with our treatment.” - Dr. Rosalyn Morrell
Resources:
Rosalyn Morrell, MD: Websitehttps://www.centerpointoncology.com/
Episode 10: My Cancer Journey with Kimberly Sizemore
https://www.cancerfromatoz.com/episodes/10 Episode 17: From Cancer to Cameras; My Cancer Journey with Beth Young
https://www.cancerfromatoz.com/episodes/17 -
Cancer treatments like radiation and chemotherapy can be pretty rough on your body, so it’s a good idea to be proactive about taking care of it as much as you can. In this episode, you will learn how you can best care for your skin, hair, and nails during your cancer treatments. I’ll share insight into what kinds of changes could happen, as well as the best treatments (and preventatives) that will help you through this process.
You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://cancerfromatoz.com/episodes/21
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It’s crucial to explore all of the different team members who are part of the cancer care team, and one of those people is the oncology social worker. My guest today is Dr. June Wiley, who has over 30 years of social work experience with individuals, families, and children. She also teaches masters and doctoral social work courses, and she joins the show today to share insight into social work and the importance it has in the field.
You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://cancerfromatoz.com/episodes/20
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It really is true that what we eat matters to our health. This is such an important subject that I invited an expert to join me today on the show: Melinda Penny-Washington, a registered dietitian, nutritionist, and transformation coach. You will get to hear about how nutrition can help in the fight against cancer as she shares her passion for bringing a mind shift into the understanding of health and wellness.
You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://cancerfromatoz.com/episodes/19
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Today I'm joined by ophthalmologist and ocular plastic surgeon Dr. Elizabeth Chiang to talk about how she treats skin cancers with ocular plastic surgery. You will hear about the important connections between cancer and ophthalmology, as well as what she commonly sees when it comes to cancers. She also addresses the steps she goes through with her cancer patients and shares insight into the reconstruction process.
You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://cancerfromatoz.com/episodes/18
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Today, I get the chance to talk to another breast cancer survivor and discuss her incredible journey. Beth Young is a 5-year survivor who was originally diagnosed at age 46, and she shares her experience from treatment to recovery. You will also hear about her career as an architect and how she became a photographer on the side who shares her work with hospitals and treatment centers around the country.
You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://cancerfromatoz.com/episodes/17
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Today I’m focusing on rectal cancer/colorectal cancer, the fourth most diagnosed cancer and second leading cancer death in the U.S. It is such a big subject to discuss that I’ll be doing another episode about anal cancer at a later date to make sure the most important points are covered, but this episode will explain how colorectal cancer symptoms work, the diagnosis, treatment options, and more.
You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://cancerfromatoz.com/episodes/16
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Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in men worldwide. It is something that has possibly affected your life or the life of someone you know, and it’s a big topic. What does lung cancer look like? What causes it? How do we treat it? In this episode, I’ll provide insight into these questions and more.
You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://cancerfromatoz.com/episodes/15
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Today’s special guest is the person who trained me in radiation oncology, my mentor, Dr. Richard Jennelle. Having been in practice since 1991, he’s a speaker and an award-winning teacher, so I’m excited to have him on the show today to talk about radiation oncology, what it means for us to connect with our patients, and much more.
You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://cancerfromatoz.com/episodes/14
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As of 2019, there were over 16.9 million cancer survivors. Survivorship is a really important part of cancer treatment and we really shouldn’t forget about it. In this episode I will be shedding light on the most important aspects of planning for and navigating survivorship – especially the survivorship care plan.
You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://cancerfromatoz.com/episodes/13
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You’ve been told that you need radiation therapy after getting a breast cancer diagnosis—what now? Just hearing the word “radiation” can be really scary and overwhelming, so today I’m talking about radiation therapy and how it helps cure breast cancer.
You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://cancerfromatoz.com/episodes/12
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