Episodes
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The Rose's Hispanic outreach program began in 1999.
So starting a Spanish version of Let's Talk About Your Breasts is a no-brainer.
Titled Hablemos de Nuestros Senos, Dorothy and Communications Manager Elda Gavidia discuss the expansion of the show. And they emphasize the cultural sensitivity and the need to communicate in the listener's native language.
The stories these women share will inspire and empower breast cancer patients and caregivers alike. Through this new podcast series, The Rose aims to foster a supportive community and provide vital information to women who otherwise wouldn't have access to it.
Hablemos de Nuestros Senos launches next month, just in time for Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Visit therose.org to learn more about our mission, and to make a donation. Your support could save the life of an uninsured Texan.
Key Questions Answered
1.) Why is the introduction of a Spanish version significant?
2.) What history does the Rose have with the Hispanic community?
3.) What percentage of diagnosed patients at the Rose are Hispanic?
4.) What kind of support has the Spanish-speaking support group at the Rose provided?
5.) What primary value is emphasized in the podcast regarding storytelling and guests?
Timestamped Overview
00:00 Addressing language and cultural disparities in healthcare.
04:54 Feature breast cancer survivors and community advocates.
09:15 Encouraging sharing faith and supporting breast cancer survivors.
11:36 Promoting podcast engagement, seeking diverse audience input.
14:12 Women leave empowered after sharing their stories.
16:24 Honored to be a small part.
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This episode stresses the importance of communication within families about serious illnesses, as Brooke Baugh shares her own experience with her mother's breast cancer diagnosis.
Dorothy and Brooke talk about transforming grief into positive action and the critical role of community service. They highlight the impact of The Rose and the partnerships that help uninsured women receive necessary screenings and treatments. Brooke recounts her mother's legacy and how it led to increased community support and programs like Project Mammogram.
Key Questions Answered
1.) Why is self-care and taking time for preventative health measures important?
2.) How does Brooke's own family history influence her advocacy for self-care and breast cancer screening?
3.) What can individuals impacted by breast cancer do to become advocates?
4.) Why is communication within families about serious illnesses important?
5.) How has Brooke's loss of her mother shaped her work in the nonprofit sector?
Timestamped Overview
00:00 Doctor's revelation changed perception of mom's illness.
05:25 Women need support, access to healthcare.
09:55 Director partners to provide breast health access.
11:35 Women need expensive excisional biopsies for cancer.
16:34 Impact of mother's partner, sons, and tribute.
17:20 Family legacy continues through charitable auction.
22:31 Positive grieving, honoring a lost loved one.
25:48 World today causes stress, little time for relaxation.
27:26 Women need to prioritize self-care and seek help.
32:24 Sharing mom's story after almost 20 years.
33:33 Project Mammogram provides essential services for underinsured women.
37:37 Grieving led to career change; support is vital.
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Missing episodes?
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When we launched the podcast, our employees told Dorothy, âYou have to interview Brittany.â
The interview has finally arrived.
Brittany Weston began as a student and is now one of The Roseâs lead mammographers. During school, both her mother and grandmother were diagnosed with breast cancer. So this isnât just a career, itâs a purpose.
During this episode, Dorothy and Brittany discuss ultrasounds and mammograms, and how a womanâs demeanor can impact the way her image appears. They also discuss how Brittany keeps calm when she finds something.
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Ginger Clark shares her personal journey battling breast cancer. Despite the challenges, she expresses gratitude and highlights the importance of early detection through regular mammograms. The episode also delves into rural healthcare issues, emphasizing the struggles small hospitals face in providing adequate services. Ginger speaks to Dorothy about healthcare access, particularly for uninsured women, and the complexity of reconstructive surgery decisions.
On a broader scale, Ginger discusses the inception of Medicare and changes in the industry, reflecting on her involvement in various non-profits post-retirement. Aging, healthcare policies, and the significance of getting mammograms form the core of this insightful conversation.
Key Questions Answered
1.) How does Ginger feel about medical interference and its consequences?
2.) What advice does Ginger Clark offer regarding cancer prevention?
3.) What important learning did Ginger gain from switching to Baylor's Stratus clinic?
4.) What critical risk for the elderly does Ginger mention?
5.) What options and decisions did Ginger face during her breast cancer treatment?
Timestamped Overview
00:00 Retired from Exxon, involved in nonprofit work.
05:11 Access to health is important for everyone. Women have more health needs. Example: higher insurance costs for reproductive age. System inefficiencies lead to suboptimal results.
09:29 Eye-opening insights on healthcare and aging.
10:56 Exxon changed insurance, strategic maneuvering for cost control.
14:33 Early detection, family history, genetic link.
18:43 Surgeon explains reconstructive surgery procedure and expectations.
20:20 Young vs. old women's concerns, oncologist's insight.
25:51 Lack of women's healthcare access in rural areas.
28:01 Tragic article details fatal outcome of pregnancy.
29:55 Futile medical spending prolonging inevitable death.
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Patricia Stapleton is The Rose's lead technologist. She's the person behind the mammogram machine. Literally.
During this episode, you'll learn about what happens when you have a diagnostic mammogram and why it's important to have it done.
She's served our community for over twenty years and always puts our women at ease. You'll also learn what it's like to give a mammogram to men.
Learn about what we do for tens of thousands of women and men, regardless of their ability to pay, when you go to therose.org.
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Why is community support crucial during health crises?
In this episode, Dorothy and Nancy Strohmer delve into the significance of showing support and care for others during tough times. Nancy shares her journey through a health crisis, highlighting the importance of receiving support from friends, family, and the community. This experience inspired her mission to help others through awareness and resources.
The conversation underscores the role of faith and community in coping during a crisis. Dorothy stresses the importance of annual mammograms for early detection of breast cancer, recounting a story of a daughter's proactive approach to her health. Nancy's story of her stage two breast cancer diagnosis, caught through a mammogram, emphasizes the importance of early detection. Her successful treatment journey serves as a powerful testament to the advancements in cancer care and the role of regular screenings.
Subscribe to Letâs Talk About Your Breasts wherever you get your podcasts and consider making a donation at therose.org.
Key Questions Answered
1.) Why is community support crucial during health crises?
2.) Why is it important to show support and care for others during difficult times?
3.) How did Nancy Strohmer's community support her during her health crisis?
4.) What role did Nancy's faith play during her health crisis?
Timestamped Overview
00:00 Active leader, sold business, focused on family.
04:28 Radiologist predicted breast cancer, chose treatment immediately.
06:41 Grandsons surprise grandmother with get well card.
10:10 Mammogram confusion and importance for older women.
15:38 New passion to raise breast cancer awareness.
16:21 2 critical messages: mammograms save lives, exercise prevents cancer.
20:53 30% city lacks health coverage, women and children disproportionately affected.
24:34 Support and positivity crucial in facing cancer.
26:09 Human connection and thoughtfulness are important.
29:23 Supportive friend aids through tough times in Houston.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Helen Perry has supported The Rose's mission since the beginning.
For more than thirty-seven years, she has seen our peaks and valleys and through it all, has remained one of our greatest advocates.
During this episode, we reflect on past experiences and friendships made along the way. And we talk about how much things have changed since then. Especially when it comes to talking about self-examinations.
Learn more about The Rose's mission to support women across more than forty-three counties in Southeast Texas, regardless of their ability to pay, when you go to therose.org.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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She thought she was setting the example by signing up for a mammogram appointment, only to discover her next step would be treatment.
As an HR professional, Morgan Muraca sets up employee benefits and upon hearing about The Roseâs Mobile Mammography Program, she was determined to bring this life saving service to her company. Little did she know that step would also save her life.
Morgan has learned so much throughout her diagnosis and treatment including what it means to take care of herself while handling a full-time job and being a mother. She talks of genetic testing and functional medicine. One of the most important experiences she shares is what it means to have âcold capâ therapy. She says this is one therapy every woman facing breast cancer treatment needs to understand and have.
Please share this episode with family and friends, and consider making a donation at therose.org. It could save the life of an uninsured woman.
Key Questions Answered
1.) What is cold cap therapy, and how did Morgan experience it during her chemotherapy?
2.) What tests did Morgan undergo during her cancer treatment, and what were their purposes?
3.) What symptoms did Morgan experience during chemotherapy, and how did her employer support her?
4.) How did Morgan manage to maintain normalcy for her teenage daughters during her cancer treatment?
5.) How did Morgan's scheduling of mammograms for her employees lead to her own cancer diagnosis?
Timestamped Overview
00:00 Morgan becomes a breast cancer advocate.
05:38 Concerned about dense breasts, self-diagnosed fibroadenomas.
08:55 Mammogram was not painful, explained well.
10:42 Encourage employee health with preventative health opportunities.
14:35 Maintaining normalcy through cancer for children's sake.
18:09 Family handled cancer diagnosis and treatment well.
22:21 Understanding body reactions while using cold cap.
25:20 Wellness tests revealed food sensitivities and gene mutation.
27:52 Employer showed support with unexpected care package.
30:42 Parents supported and helped during cancer treatment.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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What does it mean when two up and coming, globally successful business people face a life threatening diagnosis?
Jeff and Janette Marx share their experience when Janette was diagnosed and treated for breast cancer. Jeff emphasizes the importance of positivity and being a strong pillar. He highlights collaboration with family and clear work communication. Janette discusses Jeff's balance of support and responsibilities. Both stress honest communication and personal boundaries.
Cancer impacts the whole family and their candid stories convey the different dimensions and key elements needed to survive together.
Please share this episode with family and friends, and consider making a donation at therose.org. It could save the life of an uninsured woman.
Key Questions Answered
1.) What was Jeffâs reaction to Janetteâs breast cancer diagnosis?
2.) How did Jeff support Janette throughout her breast cancer experience?
3.) How did Jeff battle his personal fears during Janetteâs breast cancer experience?
4.) How did Jeff balance being a caretaker and having a career?
5.) Whatâs Jeffâs message for anyone who's supporting their spouse through a cancer diagnosis?
Timestamped Overview
00:00 Upon her return, I sensed trouble immediately.
04:30 Fear of losing her, but hopeful and supportive.
08:30 Fears and support during post-surgery recovery.
11:38 Maintain communication, share responsibilities, and offer support.
15:33 Caring for wife, adjusting work schedule.
18:07 Doctors provided vital support post-surgery. Partnered effectively.
20:18 "Be positive and bring strength to others."
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Janette faced her breast cancer diagnosis with the same methodical process and determination she used in accomplishing all of her other achievements as the CEO for a global and ever-growing company.
She surrounded herself with the best people both at work and in her healthcare team. She asked the difficult questions and made sure her physician knew who she was - as a patient, a businesswoman, but most of all as a person.
Janette offers some of the best advice ever heard on Let's Talk About Your Breasts. She explained how to interview the doctor and how to be sure your care team understands your lifestyle and what matters to you. She says whoever is in charge of your treatment must understand your expectations and that you are in charge of your life, not the cancer.
Please share this episode with family and friends, and consider making a donation at therose.org. It could save the life of an uninsured woman.
Key Questions Answered
1.) How did Janette find out about her breast cancer diagnosis?
2.) What advice did Janette receive from her doctor friend upon discovering her diagnosis?
3.) How did Janette approach her first meeting with her surgical oncologist?
4.) What should patients do if they don't feel a connection with their doctor?
5.) How did Janette share her diagnosis with her work colleagues?
Timestamped Overview
00:00 CEO advocates for cancer awareness and prevention.
05:58 Thorough research, hopeful, choose doctor, US rights.
09:26 Son had medical experience, family support crucial.
12:24 Facing uncertainty and the need for support.
14:14 Surprised by the process and seeking support.
16:37 Managing hormone therapy after breast cancer treatment.
22:45 Friends' support through thoughtful gestures during hardship.
25:43 Embrace the sink, rise back up stronger.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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After practicing law for 18 years, Bill Boyce served as a justice on the 14th Court of Appeals in Houston for 11 years. Bill has argued more than 60 cases in appellate courts throughout Texas and across the country, including the United States Supreme Court.
Bill knows the law. When his wife Maria was diagnosed with Triple Negative breast cancer, he soon had a crash course in medicine and what treatment means when dealing with cancer. Once through that initial time of Mariaâs diagnosis, Bill knew that she was in the hands of the best of the bestâthat he says, was one reason he felt so confident about her beating this disease.
He had also seen her feistiness and determination. As they waded into a different type of battle, their mutual support and their individual times of refocusing gave them a new appreciation of what good health means in life.
Please share this episode with family and friends, and consider making a donation at therose.org. It could save the life of an uninsured woman.
Key Questions Answered
1.) When did Bill know something was amiss with his wife Maria?
2.) Did Bill comfort Maria or did she comfort him?
3.) How did Bill Boyce inform his work colleagues about Maria's diagnosis?
4.) How did friends support Bill and Maria during this time?
5.) What future plans do Bill and Maria have following her treatment?
Timestamped Overview
00:00 Routine mammogram found unexpected and concerning results.
06:48 Informed colleagues about absence for medical reasons.
07:38 Lawyers face problems straightforwardly and decisively.
13:11 Maria's cancer treatment journey and surgery.
15:14 Creating a comforting home for those in need.
17:39 Challenging treatment, but gradually regained strength.
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Triple Negative Breast Cancer? Thatâs not a white womanâs disease. Maria Boyceâs success as a trial lawyer, handling some of the most complex cases in legal history, was great preparation for facing her breast cancer diagnosis. At least she knew how to ask the difficult questions.
What she wasnât prepared for was the implicit, often sad, message sent by some upon hearing her diagnosis. Triple Negative is a type of breast cancer most often found in Black women and yes, it is a tough diagnosis, sometimes fatal. For Maria it meant winning one more fight that she couldnât afford to lose.
Her experience and her new understanding of the critical need for education and awareness led her to The Rose where now she serves on the Board of Directors and has become a full-time advocate for women.
Please share this episode with family and friends, and consider making a donation at therose.org. It could save the life of an uninsured woman.
Key Questions Answered
1.) Why is addressing social determinants of health important in cancer treatment?
2.) How did early detection play a role in Dorothy's cancer journey?
3.) What factors did Maria credit for helping her battle cancer?
4.) How did Maria's belief in her doctor influence her treatment decisions?
5.) What lessons did Maria learn from her mother's battle with multiple sclerosis?
Timestamped Overview
00:00 Support from friends crucial during cancer battle
05:30 Initial meeting about breast cancer diagnosis, empathy.
07:13 Mother had hormone-based breast cancer, serious diagnosis.
10:35 Overcame personal struggle, now advocating for others.
16:28 Ensuring access to mammograms, access versus treatment.
18:51 Addressing social determinants of health is essential.
23:43 Support and transportation are crucial for treatment.
28:23 Doctor emphasized urgency of treatment for small tumor.
29:48 Initial chemotherapy showed tumor shrinkage, but concerns remained.
32:32 Finding out I didn't carry BRCA gene.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Mike is riding so others can live. Today Mike Hazelrigs and his fiancé Kathy Stevens share what it means to face metastatic breast cancer after years of treatment. Theirs is a true love story amid real-life adversity and hardships. Mike is taking their story to a new level as he rides in the historic Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge TM, a 10,000-mile trek, crisscrossing the United States and Canada, in honor of Kathy and to raise funds for the women of The Rose.
Also, during this episode, Kathy talks about the hidden costs of cancer and how understanding oneâs insurance claims and explanation of benefits could reveal charges that simply arenât real. With the extraordinal costs of healthcare and particularly cancer treatment, additional, unjustifiable charges are one more issue a survivor shouldnât have to worry about but must. She offers valuable tips and ways to ensure every charge is correct.
To easily support Mike, visit The Rose's website.
Please share this episode with family and friends, and consider making a donation at therose.org. It could save the life of an uninsured woman.
Key Questions Answered
1.) Why is Mike Hazelrigs riding 10,000 miles across the United States?
2.) What precautions should women take when undergoing radiation treatment for breast cancer?
3.) What practical tips are helpful during the recovery phase after breast cancer surgery?
4.) What kind of support can caregivers expect and what should they keep in mind?
5.). How can patients avoid unexpected out-of-network charges during their treatment?
Timestamped Overview
00:00 Couple raising money for breast cancer awareness
05:08 Caregivers must prioritize self-care and support.
08:06 Delay invoice payments, verify charges on EOBs.
11:39 Support cancer patients and caregivers without hesitation.
13:12 Podcast on breast health and support organization.
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As The Rose celebrates her 38th birthday, Dorothy and Dr. Dixie Melillo reminisce about the excitement and challenges of starting The Rose in 1986 and their steadfast commitment to making sure all women and men have access to breast care almost 40 years later.
Dr. Melillo also discusses her incredible journey from high school dropout to general surgeon and co-founding The Rose with Dorothy.
One million patients later, The Rose continues to be a beacon of hope for the uninsured in forty-three counties in Southeast Texas.
Please share your feedback and submit questions at therose.org; give us a follow on social media. And consider leaving a gift while you're there. It could save a life.
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Why is support from friends crucial during a cancer battle?
Russanne Kelly shares her breast cancer journey from 22 years ago. She faced divorce, moves, and family challenges during treatment. Insurance and friends were vital. Russanne transitioned to nonprofit work and received support from coworkers. She now gives back to others.
Please share this episode with family and friends, and consider making a donation at therose.org. It could save the life of an uninsured woman.
Key Questions Answered
1.) What major life challenges did Russanne Kelly face during her year of cancer treatment?
2.) How did Russanneâs personal situation (marriage) impact her experience with cancer?
3.) What kind of support did Russanne receive from her workplace when she got her diagnosis?
4.) What was significant about the support Russanne received from The Rose?
5.) How did Russanne cope with moving out of a toxic environment during treatment?
Timestamped Overview
00:00 Facing a Difficult Path of Treatment
05:09 The Importance of Second Opinions
09:43 The Support of Friends and Community
11:40 The Financial Challenges of Breast Cancer
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Today, on International Friendship Day, Dorothy is joined by Ronnie Haggerty, a board member of The Rose, who recounts her personal story of rallying together with friends years ago when a close friend was diagnosed with breast cancer. She describes the important role friends can play during this time; a role no other person can fill. This was also the first time she encountered seeing the different ways The Rose helps women.
Known for her deep understanding of philanthropy and the regulations governing 501(c)3 organizations, Ronnie has spent her career helping nonprofits grow and become sustainable. If youâve ever thought about starting a nonprofit, Ronnie has some sage advice that may surprise you. The nonprofit sector brings its own kind of challenges, yet they fill the gap in providing resources and services to the community.
Subscribe to Let's Talk About Your Breasts wherever you get your podcasts and consider making a donation at therose.org to help support uninsured women in forty-three counties across Texas.
Key Questions Answered
1.) How can nonprofits operate effectively?
2.) What are key things to consider when determining whether to start a nonprofit?
3.) What are some of the significant challenges uninsured women face in terms of accessing healthcare and what can nonprofits do to help?
Chapters
00:00 The Importance of Nonprofits and Best Business Practices
09:33 Advice for Starting a Nonprofit
26:16 Challenges Faced by Uninsured Women
28:40 The Role of The Rose in Providing Healthcare Access
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Lisa Helfman had it all. She was a successful attorney and rising star in her company.
She had an addiction that threatened to cut her life short. Lisa was addicted to being busy. Nevertheless, she beat the addition and is now the Community Affairs Director at HEB.
During this episode, you'll learn Lisa balances her career and personal life, what Lisa does to take care of herself, and how she's transformed the way Americans eat through her charity Brighter Bites.
Subscribe to Let's Talk About Your Breasts wherever you get your podcasts and consider making a donation at therose.org to help support uninsured women in forty-three counties across Texas.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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What would you do if genetic testing revealed a high risk for cancer?
In this episode, Dorothy speaks with Michelle Sandlin, author of Cancer Donât Care, and her daughter Kendall.
Kendall shares her experience with preventive surgeries after testing positive for the BRCA1 gene mutation. She discusses her decision-making process, challenges, and the lack of information for young women facing similar choices. For women like Kendall and Michelle, itâs all about health advocacy and seeking support.
Her mother, Michelle, offers her perspective on the journey. The conversation highlights genetic testing, preventive measures, and communication from medical professionals.
Subscribe to Letâs Talk About Your Breasts wherever you get your podcasts and consider making a donation at therose.org.
Key Questions Answered
1.) In what ways can genetic testing provide valuable information about one's risk for developing certain types of cancer?
2.) How can undergoing preventive surgeries, such as a double mastectomy and full hysterectomy, significantly reduce the risk of developing cancer for individuals with a high genetic predisposition?
3.) How can advocacy and support from others who have gone through similar experiences be invaluable for individuals facing these decisions?
4.) Why are self-care and prioritizing one's health essential?
Chapters
00:00 Introduction: Kendall's BRCA1 Gene Mutation
06:15 The Difficult Decision: Double Mastectomy
09:55 Navigating Red Tape and Insurance Issues
12:36 The Importance of Asking the Right Questions
18:44 The Need for More Information and Support
23:23 Conclusion: Advocacy and Self-Care
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What happens when someone in ideal shape is diagnosed with breast cancer?
During this episode, Dorothy welcomes Michelle Sandlin, author of Cancer Don't Care.
Michelle shares her breast cancer journey, and discusses the importance of self-care, support, and documenting the experience through writing. She emphasizes paying attention to one's body and seeking medical advice, and much more.
Please consider sharing this episode with your family and friends at therose.org. Your action may save the life of an uninsured woman.
Key Questions Answered
1.) Why is it important to pay attention to your body and seek medical advice if something feels off?
2.) Whatâs the importance of documenting your cancer journey through writing and journaling to reflect on and remember the experience?
3.) Why should breast cancer patients focus on self-care and surrounding themselves with positive and supportive people?
Chapters
00:00 Cancer Don't Care: Michelle's Diagnosis
03:03 Feeling Healthy and Getting Diagnosed
06:17 Body Awareness and Signaling
10:10 Letting Medical Professionals Take Control
29:22 Key Takeaways and Advice
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