Cancer Actually F***ing Sucks

In this episode of Cancer Actually F**king Sucks, Amanda Paul shares her experience as a stage four classical multicellularity Hodgkin lymphoma survivor with Abigail. Amanda reflects on her life as a busy high school junior, filled with competitive dance and friendships, until her diagnosis prompted a significant shift in her perspective. She describes the challenging path to her diagnosis, marked by persistent itching and misdiagnoses that left her feeling frustrated. Despite these obstacles, Amanda took charge of her health, advocating for herself and ultimately suspecting cancer before receiving confirmation. Throughout their conversation, Amanda emphasizes the importance of mindset during her experience. She discusses how the situation, while difficult, forced her to slow down and reassess her priorities, leading to personal growth. When she finally received her diagnosis, Amanda felt relief, as it validated her struggles and allowed her to begin treatment. Amanda's story highlights resilience, self-advocacy, and the value of a supportive community. Her experience serves as a reminder that even in tough times, there is space for hope and progress. It would mean so much to the podcast if you would rate and review us on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. And follow us on Instagram at @canceractuallysuckspod for more inspiring stories! If you'd like to share your story in a future episode, we'd love to hear from you! Email us at canceractuallysucks@gmail.com.

In this episode of Cancer Actually F**king Sucks, Jon Fox, a survivor of testicular and neuroendocrine cancers, shares his story with Abigail. Jon describes his background and interests before his cancer diagnosis and discusses the complexities of his life. He talks about the process of receiving his diagnosis and the whirlwind of surgeries and treatments that followed. Jon also discusses his recovery and the challenges he faced, including digestive issues and ongoing symptoms. Throughout the conversation, Jon emphasizes the importance of support from his school community and his parents. Jon shares his experience of being diagnosed with cancer and the challenges he faced during treatment and survivorship. He emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy and finding the right doctors who listen and provide thorough care. Jon also highlights the value of support groups for emotional healing and connecting with other young adult survivors. He discusses the impact of cancer on one's identity and the process of finding new puzzle pieces in life. Jon shares his aspirations for a slower-paced, creative life and encourages others to prioritize their own happiness and well-being. He advises newly diagnosed individuals to seek support, educate themselves about their condition, and consider second opinions. Overall, Jon's story is a testament to resilience, personal growth, and the power of community. If you'd like to connect with Jon, you can find him on Instagram at @mrfoxteacher, and you can read his poetry on SubStack at https://jonthefox.substack.com/. Don't forget to rate and review the podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, and follow us on Instagram at @canceractuallysuckspod for more inspiring content! To share your story in a future episode, email us at canceractuallysucks@gmail.com.

In this powerful episode, host Abigail sits down with Katrina Craiker, a stage 2B invasive ductal carcinoma breast cancer survivor. Katrina shares her journey of being diagnosed at just 27 years old, shortly after losing her mother-in-law to pancreatic cancer. She opens up about her initial symptoms, the challenging diagnostic process, and her treatment plan, which included chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation. Katrina also discusses her BRCA2 positive genetic mutation and the impact it had on her outlook for the future. This raw and honest conversation highlights the unique challenges young cancer survivors face and the importance of genetic testing in cancer treatment and prevention. Don't forget to rate and review the podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, and follow us on Instagram at @canceractuallysuckspod for more inspiring content! To share your story in a future episode, email us at canceractuallysucks@gmail.com.

In this episode of "Cancer Actually F**king Sucks", we sit down with Danny, an active duty Special Agent in the U.S. Air Force and a gastric cancer survivor. Danny takes listeners on a profound journey from diagnosis to triumph, sharing how his military training prepared him for his battle against cancer. Throughout the conversation, Danny sheds light on the pivotal role of the Hunter Seven Foundation, a nonprofit aiding active duty personnel and veterans in linking their illnesses to toxic exposures during deployment. From moments of challenge to unexpected sources of hope, Danny's story epitomizes resilience in the face of adversity, the importance of family, and the power of community. Tune in for an inspiring discussion around navigating cancer as a young adult and taking page out of Ted Lasso's book by believing - believing in yourself and that you'll make it through. We hope you enjoy! Find Danny at @thrift_shop_actual on Instagram, and learn more about the HunterSeven Foundation at @huntersevenfounation, as well. Don't forget to rate and review the podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, and follow us on Instagram at @canceractuallysuckspod for more inspiring content! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cancer-actually-sucks/message

In this episode of "Cancer Actually F**king Sucks," Abigail dives into a candid conversation with Casey Head, a survivor of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), sharing her experience navigating life after a cancer diagnosis. Casey opens up about her challenges with PTSD and anxiety post-diagnosis, offering profound insights into the impact of trauma on survivors. Embracing holistic approaches like meditation, yoga, and somatic therapy, Casey found solace and empowerment in addressing her mental health struggles. Her story underscores the transformative power of resilience and self-discovery, leading her to become a trauma-informed cancer coach and develop "The Happier Hustle." Today, through this 13-week program, she helps fighters and survivors reclaim their lives from cancer so they are mentally, physically, and emotionally stronger and live life without fear. Join Abigail and Casey as they explore the complexities of healing, the significance of community, and the pursuit of a fulfilling life beyond cancer. Don't forget to subscribe to, rate, and review the podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Your support means so much! Follow the podcast on Instagram at @canceractuallysuckspod, and follow Casey at @thehappierhustle on Facebook & Instagram, too. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cancer-actually-sucks/message

In this heartfelt episode of "Cancer Actually F**king Sucks," Geoff Grubbs shares his journey with Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL), offering a candid account of the highs and lows he's experienced. Hosted by Abigail, the conversation delves into Geoff's medical decisions, emotional challenges, and the vital role of community support. Geoff highlights the importance of organizations like the CLL Society and the Lymphoma Research Foundation, which provide invaluable resources and connections for those navigating similar paths. Join the discussion for an insightful exploration of living with CLL and the power of resilience in facing life's toughest battles. To learn more about the CLL Society, visit https://cllsociety.org/, and to get information about CLL Society Support Groups, head to https://cllsociety.org/programs-and-support/cll-specific-patient-support-groups/. Don't forget to rate and review the podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, and follow us on Instagram at @canceractuallysuckspod for more inspiring content! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cancer-actually-sucks/message

In this episode of "Cancer Actually F**king Sucks," Tracy, a courageous breast cancer survivor, shares her journey through diagnosis, treatment, and beyond. Tracy candidly discusses her experience with HER2 positive breast cancer, including its recurrence post-pregnancy and her battle with stage four metastatic cancer. She emphasizes the importance of finding the right medical team and navigating survivor guilt, while also highlighting the challenges of forging new connections during illness. Tracy's resilient spirit shines through as she channels her strength into running marathons for fundraising and providing peer support through CanCare. Her story resonates with themes of friendship evolution, identity reconstruction, and the pursuit of hope amidst uncertainty. Tracy's message of advocacy, empathy, and community underscores the transformative power of connection in navigating life's toughest moments. Don't forget to rate and review the podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, and follow us on Instagram at @canceractuallysuckspod for more inspiring content! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cancer-actually-sucks/message

In this heartfelt conversation, Abigail and Kallie share an intimate dialogue about Kallie's journey as a breast cancer survivor. From discussing meaningful tattoos to the challenges of navigating relationships post-cancer, Kallie opens up about the emotional and physical toll of her experience. As an ambassador for the Triple Negative Breast Cancer Foundation, Kallie sheds light on her advocacy work and shares her plans for raising awareness during Triple Negative Breast Cancer Month. Despite the hardships she's faced, Kallie's resilience shines through as she reflects on her modeling journey post-treatment and the evolution of her self-esteem. Through vulnerability and strength, Kallie's story inspires hope and empowerment. Don't forget to rate and review the podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, and follow us on Instagram at @canceractuallysuckspod for more inspiring content! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cancer-actually-sucks/message

It's our final episode ever (for now) and we also have a HUGE announcement for the pod! Abigail Glavy is your new host for Cancer Actually F***ing Sucks! Maddy and Shannon are passing the torch and they're so excited to welcome the new host. Follow us on Insta @canceractuallysuckspod. Don't forget rate, review & subscribe.

Join Shannon & Lindsy aka Taz & Sunset (#outlivingit #firstdescents) as they vulnerably dive into Lindsy's experience living with Stage 4 Metastatic Breast Cancer and how meditation has brought her peace in processing a Stage 4 diagnosis. Shannon & Lindsy met on a trip with First Descents, a nonprofit that sponsors cancer survivors to go on free community adventures. Shannon dishes about her experience with First Descents before diving into conversation with Lindsy. Lindsy is an award-winning speaker, and blog author, and retired fitness entrepreneur and health coach. With humor, authenticity and vulnerability, Lindsy reflects on the pivotal moments in her life that have made her an expert through experience in resilience, adaptation and positive mindset. She dives into the many life lessons from her childhood diagnosis of autoimmune disease, and how it prepared her for an early-stage Breast Cancer diagnosis soon after becoming a wife and mother to 2 children. Now, living with stage 4 metastatic breast cancer she delves into the emotions she encounters, the fears that threaten to overwhelm her, and the strength she continues to discover within herself.  Find Lindsy on Instagram - @lindsymatthews

On this episode, Shannon sits down with Hil Moss of VivorCare to chat all things survivorship. Hil is the Co-Founder & CEO of VivorCare, the first virtual survivorship clinic delivering cancer survivorship care. A young breast cancer survivor, Hil is an active advocate, mentor, and writer in the cancer community (published in outlets such as New York Magazine, Cell, and STAT), and dedicates her time to raising awareness around the importance of early detection and improving patient experience. Hil shares her diagnosis experience and the irony of the season of her life she found out she had breast cancer. She shares about her experience with family planning throughout her cancer journey and the importance of talking about the different fertility experiences that can come after diagnosis. We also talk about VivorCare & why Hil decided to commit to the full career change to focus on providing more support in the "What Now?" phase of survivorship. VivorCare - https://www.vivorcare.com/ Hil Moss - https://www.instagram.com/hilmoss/

Shannon & Maddy start the episode off recapping their Thanksgiving and with some big podcast updates. Then we introduce Thandi Montgomery to the pod this week who is a breast cancer survivor and advocate. We walk through her diagnosis journey, what her treatment looked like and the emotional rollercoaster through all of it. She also shares how she stays so positive, ways she deals with fear of recurrence and reframing thoughts both during and after cancer. You can keep up with Thandi on Instagram @thandimonee and check out her website at thandimonee.com.

This week's guest is Dr. Sanjay, aka The Onc Doc @theoncdoc! We're so excited for this episode - it's full of super helpful information for cancer patients and survivors from an amazing oncologist.  We talk to Dr. Sanjay about supplements, advocacy for patients, what he thinks cancer survivors should be doing after treatment, cancer topics & myths and new cancer-related discoveries and technologies that are coming.  He's so great at explaining cancer and cancer-related topics in everyday terms and gives so many helpful tips to navigate this experience. Thank you Dr. Sanjay for being such an awesome guest! Follow him on social media @theoncdoc and you can check out his website https://www.sjunejamd.com/ ! Don't forget to rate, review and subscribe to the pod! 

We're talking to Joanna Doran, Cancer Rights Expert & CEO of Triage Cancer. We discuss all things patient rights for the cancer community. This episode is a must listen for anyone impacted by cancer. Joanna shares her background and how she got into the field of Cancer Rights. We discuss the primary areas that the cancer community looks for support - financial, insurance and employment law - with practical tips on how to make sure you are advocating for yourself sooner than later. Triage Cancer is a national nonprofit organization that provides education on the practical and legal issues that can arise following a cancer diagnosis. The organization serves individuals diagnosed with cancer, as well as their families, caregivers, advocates and healthcare professionals, helping them navigate complex situations by providing free events, materials and resources. Joanna Fawzy Doran, Esq., is a cancer rights attorney, author, speaker, and CEO of Triage Cancer, a national, nonprofit organization providing free education on practical and legal issues that may impact individuals coping with cancer and their caregivers, through events, materials, and resources. You can check out everything Triage cancer has to offer at https://triagecancer.org/!

This week we're talking to Abigail Glavy, breast cancer survivor and women's rights advocate. Abigail had grown up seeing breast cancer her whole life with loved ones who had been diagnosed and she opens up about finding out about her own genetic mutation at the time of diagnosis and what it was like being exposed to this world at a young age. She also shares some other traumatic events that happened around this time and how she's been living in survival mode for so long, and what she's been doing to start getting out of it and moving into survivorship. Abigail is incredible and we're so excited for you to hear her story! Don't forget to rate, review & subscribe to the pod. You can follow Maddy on Instagram @maddypollack_health and Shannon @shancury.

It's a solo episode with Shannon this week and she's talking to Stephanie, the creator of Bad Genes, a “cancer clothing line” aimed to raise awareness about cancer, inspire survivors or those impacted and directly support cancer research. They donate 50% of net proceeds to non-profit organizations that are also dedicated to making a responsible impact. They talk about why Stephanie created this business, being an oncology nurse and how that experience has been for her and why she's been so drawn to the oncology field. You can check out Bad Genes at badgenes.co and follow them on social media @badgenes_ Don't forget to rate, review and subscribe to the pod! You can follow Shannon on Instagram @shancury and Maddy @maddypollack_health, and follow the pod @canceractuallysuckspod! 

It's a solo episode today catching up with your favorite hosts, Maddy & Shannon! We're reflecting on 2023 so far, talk about how both of us have had recent cancer triggers and fear of recurrence/other cancers. We talk about how no matter how long you're out of active cancer treatment, these feelings still come back and that is totally okay and how to get through them. Shannon talks about her recent Europe trip and why the fear of recurrence came back during it. She opens up about the importance of recognizing what feels good for her body and coming back to it. Maddy shares how she has recently taken some time off and how important it is to take time for yourself. She also has had a recent cancer trigger situation at the dermatologist and opens up about that experience. We both open up about finding our own "normal" in our bodies and how that looks different for everyone. Don't forget to rate, review and subscribe to the pod! And follow them on Insta @canceractuallysuckspod, @maddypollack_health and @shancury

This week we're talking to Tori McGee, who is a two time Hodgkins Lymphoma survivor, stem cell survivor and Guillain-Barre Syndrome warrior. She has now been in remission since last March 2022! She shared with us how important it is to listen to your body rather than just go through the motions of life and accept not feeling great. Tori also opens up about how before her diagnosis she was always go go go and never took breaks or time for herself, and now moving forward how important that is her for her and her health. She talks about the process of getting diagnosed and how scary it was seeing her scan results for the first time and how due to the size of her tumor she wasn't able to do anything in regards to fertility prior to treatment.  Tori also walks us through the stem cell transplant process and how it went for her, and how she ended up also getting diagnosed with Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS), which is an autoimmune disease that attacks the nerve endings.  She provides some amazing advice and tips on how she stays so positive and has such a great perspective on life, taking one day at a time and prioritizing your health.  You can check out Tori's website at iamstoritelling.com and follow her in Instagram at @storitelling. Don't forget to rate, review and subscribe to the pod and follow us on Insta @canceractuallysuckspod!

On this week's pod we're talking to Aidan Morris, stage 3 triple negative breast cancer survivor and co-founder of Do Cancer, a nonprofit organization that provides cancer patients and survivors with holistic healing services and programs. Aidan walks us through her diagnosis processes, getting second opinions for her treatment plan and the treatments she went through. She also opens up about doing her own research on the different drugs and treatments that were being recommended by doctors and how helpful it was.  She also discusses how imperative it is to be your own advocate and build trust within your body, parenting throughout cancer and how she approached it, and how she stayed in the present both during cancer treatment and now. We are so appreciative of Aidan for being so open and sharing her story! Follow Do Cancer on Instagram @do.cancer and check out their website for more info and how to get involved at docancer.org. Keep up with us and our guests on social media @canceractuallysuckspod.

This week we're talking to the incredible shining light that is Shenell Malloy. Shenell is a stage 4 Glioblastoma survivor, founder of Do Cancer, mom of two and has been in remission for 4 years. After being told that the average survival time is 12-18 months with this diagnosis and that 5% of patients live past 5 years, she became determined to not only live and survive through this cancer for herself and her family, but to also help others gain access to holistic healing modalities. She shares her journey through having such a terrifying diagnosis, treatment and how she prioritized herself and her health to get through treatment and the aftermath of it all. Shenell talks about how important it is for all of us to make time for ourselves and our healing rather than waiting until it's too late. She opens up about starting the Do Cancer organization, what it is and how you can get involved. Shenell is truly amazing and we're so excited for you to hear her story! You can follow Do Cancer on Instagram @do.cancer and visit the website at docancer.org. Don't forget to rate, review and subscribe to the pod and follow us on Instagram @canceractuallysuckspod!

We start the episode out with some updates from Maddy and Shannon. Shannon gives us an update about her egg retrieval process and how it went. Then we hop into Part 2 of our interview with Christie where she talks about recovering after her last transplant and how she has slowly been able to transition into life out of treatment. She shares what's been tough and the symptoms she's experiencing through the transition and recovery, and what she's able to do now. Christie also shares how having Leukemia has been such a unique experience and how it can be hard to connect with even other people in the cancer community because of this. Christie is now able to travel and be around friends so shares what exciting things she has coming up and what she's looking forward to in the coming months!  You can follow Christie on social media @fueling.your.soul and keep up with us and our guests on Instagram @canceractuallysuckspod, @shancury and @maddypollack_health!

This week we have Christie Finley back on the pod! Last time we talked to Christie was June 2021 and she has lots of updates for us. This will be a two part episode to first catch up on what's happened in the last couple of years in Christie's Leukemia journey and to chat through where she's at now and how she's feeling in the present moment. In this week's episode Christie opens up about relapsing after her first bone marrow transplant  and how she's dealt with this long cancer journey both emotionally and physically. She talks about being in survival mode and how she's coping, doing Proton therapy and what her symptoms were, how being super open and transparent about her experience on social media impacts her and so much more.  Thank you Christie for sharing your story with us! You can follow Christie on Instagram @fueling.your.soul and keep up with us and our guests on Instagram @canceractuallysuckspod.  You can also follow Shannon directly @shancury and Maddy @maddypollack_health. Don't forge to rate, review and subscribe :)

We're back with another episode with just Maddy and Shannon this week giving all of their life updates. The biggest news is that Shannon has started the egg retrieval process. She walks us through her experience so far and why she decided to do it now. She shares how her body, emotions and mental health have been affected throughout and what she's been doing to help. We also talk about having all of the tools that we know help us feel better mentally, physically and emotionally, especially after cancer, but sometimes they just don't work and that's okay too. Shannon also shares how she's resetting when it comes to personal boundaries and being intentional with her time. Maddy shares her own updates as well, how moving in with her boyfriend is going, getting used to new routines and her upcoming coaching program offerings. Don't forget to rate, review and subscribe to the podcast as well as check out our amazing sponsors: badgenes.co, docancer.org and btrnation.com (use code CANCERSUCKS20 at checkout for $$ off)! And keep up with us on Instagram @canceractuallysuckspod, @maddypollack_health and @shancury.

This week we're talking to Ashley, the CEO, Founder & Chief Snack Officer of BTR Nation, we're so excited to have her stare her story with all of you!! After both of Ashely's parents were diagnosed with rare Stage 5 cancers, she began to notice how little healthy, tasty food options there were in hospitals. She found that her and her parents were eating horribly while they were in the hospital getting treatment. Ashley then started to make her own snacks for her and her parents that had clean ingredients, tasted amazing and her parents both loved them even when they didn't have an appetite. After both her parents passed is when her mission began - to end mindless snacking and take the junk out of junk food so that anyone, no matter what your journey is, can have access to clean, yummy snacks and foods. Ashley talks about her experience with being the caretaker of both parents and how she has dealt with such a huge loss. She shares about her background in food science and higher education, and how she started her own venture with BTR Nation. We also discuss how she's grown BTR Nation to such a huge success and what's coming up next for them. And so much more!! And as Ashely's parents told her - Stay Bold, Tenacious & Resilient. You can follow Ashely and BTR Nation @btr.nation on Instagram and visit the website at https://www.btrnation.com/. Use code CANCERSUCKS20 for 20% off your purchase!

On this week's episode, we have The Onc Docs on as our guests! Dr. Onyi Balogun, radiation oncologist specializing in breast and gynecologic cancers, is a domestic and global cancer disparities researcher and Dr. Folu Balogun is a medical oncologist specializing in pancreatobiliary and colorectal cancers; his research focuses on these cancers with an emphasis on underserved communities. We're so grateful to be able to have spoken with Dr. Onyi & Dr. Folu and hear their perspective on cancer, survivorship and the patient experience from a doctor's point of view. We talk about how they connect and stay present with their patients, while also separating the emotional toll and attachment cancer can take on them in their lives after work. We discuss what type of research they're currently doing in the cancer space and their view on the cure for cancer. They share how they approach survivorship and scanxiety with their patients, what brought them into this field and why they're so passionate about the work they do and why they started their own podcast, The Onc Docs. This conversation is so special, we learned so so much from Dr. Onyi and Dr. Folu, we hope you enjoy! You can follow them on Instagram @theoncdocs and their website is theoncdocs.com. Don't forget to rate, review & subscribe if you love the pod! Follow us on Insta @canceractuallysuckspod, Shannon @shancury and Maddy @maddypollack_health.

This week we start out the episode with a big career update from Shannon and how she's beginning to process this life shift. Then we go into our incredible interview with Jasmine Dionne Souers, breast cancer survivor and President and CEO of The Missing Pink Breast Cancer Alliance, which connects change agents to improve the lives of people of color affected by breast cancer. We start with Jasmine's diagnosis story, how it took about 5 months to finally get an answer and all of the different screenings she needed to do in order for her doctor to officially diagnose her. She shares how her oncologist decided on the treatment plan, which was to skip chemo and go right into radiation, and she just finished hormone treatment this year after 5 years! Jasmine goes into how it feels to be done with her hormone therapy and how much her body has been affected. She also shares how she is now in a transitional space in the cancer community, moving on from being apart of certain aspects of the community and what this pivot from her original business to The Missing Pink has looked like so far. She also shares how her goal is to use her power to change systems to help improve the lives of people of color affected by breast cancer by offering support and advocacy. You can follow Jasmine on Instagram @jasglowsthruit & @themissingpinkbca. And check out The Missing Pink at themissingpink.org. Don't forget to rate, review and subscribe to the pod and follow us on Instagram @canceractuallysuckspod Also don't forget to check out our sponsors and partners docancer.org, badgenes.go and btrnation.com!

It's our first episode of 2023!! Maddy & Shannon are going through the following prompts together to reflect back on 2022 and set intentions for 2023: What are 3 things you're most proud of accomplishing this year? What have you learned about yourself this year? What is 1 word to describe 2022? What do you wish you did more of? What are some health goals you have for 2023? By Spring 2023 how do you want to feel? What could you tell yourself to get there? What are you most grateful for in 2022? Shannon talks about how proud she is for moving to a new city, starting co-hosting the podcast and showing up for herself in ways that were challenging. Maddy talks about how proud she is for doing a lot of work around romantic relationships in therapy and was able to dive into a lot of relationship trauma that she hasn't dealt with before. They both discuss intentions and goals for 2023 and all the things they're looking forward to in the new year. Shannon talks about how she wants to spend more time building and creating community in 2023, and Maddy discusses that she wants to tap into her spirituality more as well as further grow her health coaching business. Maddy mentioned the amazing nonprofit docancer.org that offers free holistic health services to cancer patients & survivors. Follow us on insta and keep up with us and our gusts @canceractuallysuckspod! Don't forget to rate, review and subscribe to the pod.

Our guest on this week's episode is Sara Lou. Sara is a breast cancer rebel and began writing during the dark days of chemotherapy, posting her work to Instagram. She developed a following and has since been featured in Psychology Today, Cancer Wellness Magazine & Wildfire Magazine. Sara also co-founded The Bloom Club which is a safe space for young women who have experienced cancer. They offer experiences, events, and retreats for the young cancer community. We talk through Sarah's experience getting diagnosed with Invasive Ductal Carcinoma and when she first felt the lump in her breast. We also discuss the importance of creating community within the cancer space so that nobody feels alone in their thoughts. Sarah opens up about how her mental health was affected by chemo, why that moved her to start writing and how her writings helped her to communicate with her friends and family who haven't experienced cancer. Follow Sarah on Instagram @sarahlou.writes and @the.bloomclub! Don't forget to rate, review and subscribe to the podcast and follow us on Instagram and Facebook @canceractuallysuckspod.

In this week's episode Maddy and Shannon are talking to Elise Nonnenman, a Hodgkins Lymphoma survivor who has been done with treatment for exactly a year today! We get right into the episode where Elise talks about how the podcast helped her during treatment, her diagnosis story and what symptoms brought her to the doctor. We talk about medical and general anxiety, Elise's issues with IVs during chemo and how she's been doing since treatment. Elise also talks about the importance of prioritizing certain tools in her daily life since treatment has ended in order to help with reducing anxiety and fears. Elise also explains how she feels even healthier of a person after cancer, fears around the next phases of her life and how her partner has helped her through cancer and the recovery afterwards. We're so happy to have Elise share her story with us and all of you! You can follow Elise on Instagram @elisenon and the pod @canceractuallysuckspod. Don't forget to rate, review, subscribe and share the podcast if you love it :) And we have our FIRST SPONSOR! Go to badgenes.co and use code CANCERSUCKS for 20% off your order.

Maddy & Shannon are back!! We'll be releasing new episodes every other Thursday now so keep an eye out :) On this episode they give all of their life updates from the past few months: Shannon's move & how she's settling into her new city How embracing the discomfort of being out of your comfort zone is so important for growth Seasons changing and how that affects our energy New courses they're both doing Maddy's new relationship status & dating after cancer Both of their recent birthdays and how their views of birthdays have changed since cancer Deep dive (kind of) into their astrological signs (sidetone: we don't know anything about astrology so be patient with us) Come laugh with us and let us know what your sign is we'll read about it on the next episode

On this week's episode, we're talking to Olivia Clarke, founder of @humorbeatscancer and Stage 4 Breast Cancer fighter. Get ready to laugh in this episode with Olivia as she walks us through her initial diagnosis and where she's at now in her cancer journey. Why and how she started Humor Beats Cancer, a nonprofit that promotes using humor and writing as coping tools for dealing with cancer. We also talk about how relationships can change with a cancer diagnosis and how finding people that understand and support you through your cancer journey is so important. Olivia explains why she targets cancer patients in their 20s-40s with Humor Beats Cancer and how providing a safe space for people to vent, tell their own stories and laugh is so powerful. Olivia, Maddy and Shannon all share their own funny stories during their cancer experiences. You can follow and learn how to get involved with Humor Beats Cancer on their Instagram @humorbeatscancer. Don't forget to rate, review and subscribe to this podcast!

It's just Maddy on the show today but she's here with Maddie Miles and we're SO excited to have her! Maddie is a hormone specialist, female health activist, clinical herbalist and founder of Peace Love Hormones and creator of Soothe, an herbal remedy that helps with PMS symptoms and balancing hormones. Maddie gives us so much information around her own health struggles with an eating disorder and how that led her to creating a career in helping women take back control of their menstrual health. She talks through the balance of Western and Eastern medicine, how stress and trauma from cancer (or anything else) affects our hormones and what we can do to balance them and how supporting gut health and optimizing our nutrition can help with regulating hormones. We also touch on effects of hormonal birth control, being your own advocate and SO MUCH MORE! Maddie also talks about Soothe, the herbal remedy she created to help supplement women's health and balance their hormones. Maddie is truly incredible and is helping to change the way we think about our hormones as women. You can follow Maddie on Instagram @themaddiemiles. She is also the host of the Peace Love Hormones podcast and you can purchase Soothe on www.peacelovehormones.com. Follow us to keep up with our guests @canceractuallysuckspod!

We're back and are having a little catch up on the pod this week. We talk about Shannon's move to San Diego, how she's settling in and finding community in a new place. Maddy talks about her plans for traveling this Summer, taking a break from social media and her current coaching programs. We both talk through our views on Roe v Wade being overturned, how setting boundaries with social media is super important for our overall health and when to know if you may need to take a little break. We also talk through future plans for the pod, building more of a community around it with all of our listeners and connect more with all of you! Keep up with our episodes and guests on Instagram @canceractuallysuckspod and please rate, review and subscribe!!

In this week's episode we're speaking with Koy Connors! Koy was diagnosed with Testicular Cancer in May 2021 when he felt a lump on one of his testicles and went to the doctor to get it checked out right away. He walks us through with his cancer diagnosis process, his treatment plan, getting into remission and then having the cancer come back. Throughout his whole experience, he made sure to be his own advocate and call his doctors at any sign of things not feeling normal. We also talk through the benefits and disadvantages to MyChart and seeing your results online, how he feels like a different person now and how cancer has positively impacted his life a year later. Koy also gives us insight into what helped him feel like himself during chemo, finding gratitude in the little things and the importance of being your own advocate as much as you can. You can follow Koy on Instagram at @koy3737 and keep up with us and our guests on Instagram @canceractuallysuckspod!

This week's guest is Christina Bowers! Christina was diagnosed with Leukemia at 11 years old, and is now 33 and cancer free! Christina talks us through her symptoms when she first felt something wasn't right in her body, how her parents and older sister supported her as a young kid going through cancer, having to switch schools while going through treatment and how it was really difficult to open up to other kids. She also opens up about being really self conscious as a young pre-teenage girl going through cancer and not having hair and how her mental health was affected by that. Christina talks about how now as an adult she's beginning to process things and has become more in touch with her body, how she has noticed certain things trigger anxiety like alcohol, and her journey moving through and coping with all of it now 20 years later. Now Christina prioritizes self care as much as she can, and explains how having a routine is super helpful for her mental health. In her early 20s she also started getting into yoga and eating cleaner, and explains how these practices has impacted her mental, emotional and physical health for the better. You can follow Christina on Instagram @tinivessel, and keep up with us and our guests on our Instagram and Facebook @canceractuallysuckspod. You can follow Maddy @cancersurvivor_nutritioncoach and Shannon @shancury

Get ready for some giggles this week on the pod! Maddy and Shannon have a solo episode and are talking all things chemo! First, Shannon shares her experience with R-EPOCH, how she had to do all of her treatments in the hospital, her regimen before going and what she packed for the hospital, the side effects she experienced and how being in the hospital during Covid was for her. Maddy's up next sharing her experience with ABVD, finding a post-chemo regimen that worked for her, preparing for the first chemo treatment, her side effects from chemo, what the two weeks in between chemo treatments looked like and her favorite ways to stay distracted and busy during treatment. We hope these tips are helpful for anyone that's preparing or currently going through chemo treatment, and of course that our stories bring some laughs! **Disclaimer: We are not healthcare professionals, please do not take any medical advice from this podcast and always check with your doctor.

On this week's episode Maddy and Shannon are talking to Matt Fumo, a spinal cord injury survivor and son of a Stage 4 Squamous Cell Carcinoma Survivor. To start the episode, Shannon and Maddy give a quick update and both have some exciting news to share! As they dive into the conversation with Matt, he discusses more details about how injury and how it happened, how medical professionals told him he would never walk again, growing up with a dad with cancer and where his dad is now in his cancer journey, and how him and his dad got even closer as they both had gone through life threatening medical occurrences. Matt also talks about his recovery after his accident and how seeing his dad fight and push through cancer, made him fight even harder for the ability to walk again. We also discuss the mind-body connection in relation to spinal cord injuries and cancer, and how it's so important. Matt is beyond inspiring, he fully recovered from his injury and is now training for a triathlon!! You can follow Matt on Instagram @mattfumo and keep up with us and our guests @canceractuallysuckspod. Follow Maddy on Instagram @cancersurvivor_nutritioncoach & Shannon @shancury!

This week's episode we're talking to Rian Harvey, who was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) at age 14 in 2013. He first found out something was wrong when he felt that he was becoming less active and social in his teenage years and was having horrible pain in his leg. Rian explains how he finally found out what was going on in his body and his journey to diagnosis, dealing with an intense and risky surgery, his journey through chemo, going through cancer as a teenager, and how he hadn't really processed his cancer experience until the pandemic 7 years later when life slowed down. Rian also touches on how him starting to process his cancer experience caused him to want to give back to the cancer community in order to help other people feel less alone and remind them that they can get through anything. He also started The L Card, an online community and podcast to connect cancer patients and survivors with one another. Rian is truly amazing, we teared up as he was speaking with us and we can't wait for you all to listen and be inspired by his story! You can follow Rian on Instagram @thelcard_rh and check out his podcast The L Card anywhere you listen to podcasts. Follow us and keep up with our guests on Instagram @canceractuallysuckspod, @shancury and @cancersurvivor_nutritioncoach!

On this week's episode, Shannon and Maddy are speaking with Trauma Informed Psychotherapist, Jacklynne Marder. We start out the episode catching up, talking through why we wanted to speak with Jacklynne in the first place, and some of our experience dealing with trauma and PTSD after cancer treatment. Throughout the episode, Jacklynne explains how trauma affects our physical body and nervous system, why trauma stays in our bodies, ways to recognize your triggers and how to reduce anxiety around it. We also discuss why during treatment we may not start to process the trauma of cancer and our diagnoses until after treatment is over. To reach out to Jacklynne or keep up with her, follow on Instagram @heartfeltmantras and check out her website jacklynnemardercounseling.com. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook to keep with us and our guests @canceractuallysuckspod. And follow Maddy @cancersurvivor_nutritioncoach and Shannon @shancury!

We're back with Season 2 and so excited to welcome our new co-host Shannon Cury!! Shannon is a 30 year old Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma survivor and has been out of treatment and cancer free for officially 1 year today! We talk about anxiety after treatment, how just because treatment is over your cancer journey isn't, scanxiety, PTSD, grief over your previous self and so much more! Shannon also gives an update on what she's been up to over the past year, how her life is different now after cancer and how finding HypnoBreathwork has made a huge impact on her life and career. Maddy also gives an update on what she's been up since the latest episode and what to expect on Season 2 of Cancer Actually F***ing Sucks! Follow us on Instagram and Facebook to keep with us and our guests @canceractuallysuckspod. Follow Maddy @cancersurvivor_nutritioncoach and Shannon @shancury135!

In this week's episode Maddy is speaking with Katie Day, who on November 19th 2021 is officially 1 year in remission from Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma! Katie discusses the first symptoms she experienced while in her senior of college and what led her to go get checked and ultimately receive the official diagnosis. She talks about doing REPOC chemo treatment and how she had to be hooked up to chemo 24/7 for 5 days at a time. We also discuss the process of how she decided not to freeze her eggs and what she did instead, why a traditional support group didn't feel right for her and how she found amazing support through social media and the online young adult cancer community. Katie has started playing tennis again and is now in school abroad in the UK! You can follow her and reach out on Instagram @_katieday and follow us @canceractuallysuckspodcast on Facebook and Instagram!

On today's episode I'm chatting with Jessa de la Morena, cervical cancer survivor, Global Director of the Transformational Leadership program at Amadeus, and founder of U Are The Hero. Jessa and I talk about some similarities between quarantine in Covid and being in treatment, how she was first diagnosed with a rare form of cervical cancer, parenting two children while going through treatment, and how she dealt with the cancer coming back. Jessa also opens up a lot about how her cancer experience transformed the way she shows up in her every day life, how it led her to have a big personal transformation due to tons of introspection and supplemental practices she did while in treatment that helped with both physical and mental side effects of cancer. From realizing that there aren't many positive places online for cancer patients or people dealing with adversities in general, she created U Are The Hero, an online community where people can share their stories to give others hope and inspire to own your wellbeing, take action, and be your own hero. You can check out U Are The Hero online and share your own story at uarethehero.com and follow the community on Instagram @u_are_the_hero. Don't forget to rate, review and subscribe to this podcast and follow us on Facebook and Instagram @canceractuallysuckspodcast Today's guest is Jessa de la Morena, cervical cancer survivor and founder of U Are The Hero. Jessa shares how her cancer experience led her to becoming her own hero and how important introspection and connection are to healing.

On this week's episode Jen Delvaux joins me to talk about her experience as both a caregiver to her husband, who has been fighting brain cancer since 2009, and a cancer fighter herself. Jen was diagnosed with Invasive Ductal Carcinoma breast cancer in February 2021. We discuss how her and her husband's mindsets around their diagnoses are super different, but how they help each other along the way, how fitness has helped her throughout this entire journey, the treatment she had to undergo, going through forced menopause, parenting while both having cancer and so much more! Jen is truly such a positive light in this cancer community and reminds us of the importance of controlling what we can when it comes to our health. She also discusses other modalities she has used to help with the side effects from hormone therapy and what other lifestyle changes she's made that have made a positive impact on her health. You can follow Jen on Instagram @jendelvaux and check out her website jendelvaux.com, and go listen to her podcast Not Today Cancer. Keep up with us and our guests on Facebook and Instagram @canceractuallysuckspodcast. Don't forget to rate, review, subscribe and share with anyone that may find comfort in our stories!

This week's guest is Howie Saavedra, caregiver and husband to Christina Marie Saavedra Paisley who passed away on June 16, 2021 after battling ALL for 16 months. I'm beyond honored that Howie was willing to share his and Christina's story and be super vulnerable during our whole chat. Howie opens up about how him and Christina met, how Christina found out she had Leukemia, their difficulties with finding treatment plans in Canada, the beautiful, happy times they had during this experience and what led to Christina's passing. He also explains how he's had his own PTSD to deal with, what brings him joy now that she is gone and how he plans on living his life after going through this tragic experience. Howie's perspective from the husband and caregiver is so important to talk about and share, and I'm truly so grateful that he was willing to on this podcast. In the words of Christina, “Be kind. Be brave. Be radically bold.” You can keep up with Howie on Instagram @howru_howie and keep up with our guests on Facebook and Instagram @canceractuallysuckspodcast.

This week's guest is Cody O'Connor, Ewing Sarcoma survivor and founder of Champions do Overcome, an organization that raises money to help with the families affected by childhood cancer. As a young kid diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer, Cody witnessed firsthand how cancer not only affected him personally, but all of his younger siblings and his parents throughout his experience. Cody opens up about his own experience with treatment, needing to get surgery to remove his fibula, which ultimately changed the trajectory of his life. Building up strength and now proving everyone wrong by walking across the country to raise awareness and funds for his organization Champions Do Overcome. He also talks about how faith and religion has helped him get through, reacclimatizing to life after treatment as an active teenage boy and what inspired him to go on this "walk for hope." We're rooting for you Cody and so happy you could share your story! You can check out the organization at https://www.championsdoovercome.org/ and follow Cody on Instagram @overcomerteam to keep up with where he is on his journey. Follow us to keep up with guests and updates on Instagram and Facebook @canceractuallysuckspodcast!

This week we're speaking with Kiki Wooten, breast cancer fighter and advocate with Know Your Lemons. Kiki is the sweetest, most genuine human and I'm so happy she was able to share her story with us! She was diagnosed with Invasive Ductal Carcinoma Stage 2A on October 1st, 2019, ironically the first day of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Kiki talks us through how she first felt her tumor, finding out the news by herself, telling her husband, and then preparing for what was to come and explaining that to her 5 year old daughter. She also explains how she prepared for her bilateral mastectomy and different complications she experienced with the tissue expanders throughout chemo. Kiki had to go through several surgeries during Covid and also talks about not being able to see her family during that time. Kiki is passionate about teaching others to listen to their bodies and to be aware of the signs of potential breast cancer. You can truly feel Kiki's sweet, compassionate personality through this interview and I know she will help so many other women and men experiencing breast cancer through sharing her story and becoming an advocate with Know Your Lemons. Thank you Kiki! You can find her Facebook at Kiki Nicole, and follow her on Instagram @viper_foxx. Check out Know Your Lemons at knowyourlemons.com. Follow and keep up with our guests on Facebook and Instagram @canceractuallysuckspodcast

This week's guest is Justin Seddon, an Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia and kidney cancer survivor, and marine, who's mission has been to influence and motivate other people with cancer by showing them that anything is possible post cancer. “My whole purpose of joining the military was to highlight that. As much as I appreciated all the volunteers helping me, they were unable to directly relate to anything we have gone through.” Justin was diagnosed with ALL at just 13 years old. He opens up about being a teenager during such a difficult time, going through treatment for 3 years, how different the protocols were back then versus now, relating to other kids and how he felt about missing out on certain social situations growing up. He also talks about how this experience influenced him to join the military at 21 years old to become a marine, volunteering at pediatric oncology centers, and then getting diagnosed with kidney cancer years later. Justin is now married with a son of his own, and has been NED for 7 months! He is so incredibly inspiring and is currently working on writing a book to talk about his experience. You can follow or reach out to Justin on Instagram @seddondone Keep up with new episodes and our guests on Facebook & Instagram @canceractuallysuckspodcast

This week's guest is Amanda Kelly, 31 year old breast cancer survivor. Amanda was diagnosed with breast cancer at 29 after finding a lump in the shower. She walks us through the process of deciding on whether to do a mastectomy or chemo first, how she dealt with the waiting in between having surgery and the start of chemo, and the difficulty of making all of these different decisions that come with a cancer diagnosis. We also talk about her recovery from the double mastectomy she had, her experience with dating during all of this, and dealing with the anxieties after treatment is over. You can keep up with Amanda on her instagram @akelly726! Follow us to keep with our guests and episodes on Instagram and Facebook @canceractuallysuckspodcast. Don't forget to rate, review, share & subscribe!

I am SO EXCITED about this week's guest, Emily Schmookler, Yoga, Meditation and Pranayama Guide and Ayurveda Health Counselor. Emily was diagnosed with Grade 1A Endometrial cancer in June 2020. She shares how thus far she's taken a conservative, integrated approach to her cancer as opposed to the traditional treatment of a hysterectomy and is still in the decision making process. Emily opens up about dealing with hormone imbalances, how she's had PCOS her whole adult life, how making a decision around treatment can be super difficult and taking an integrated approach with both Western and Eastern medicine. She also discusses Ayurveda and how It can help with balancing of hormones, the importance of self care and prioritizing your health, and 3 things she recommends doing every day in order to help with that balance. Thank you so much Emily for sharing your story! You can follow her on Instagram @schmook.town or email her at emilyschmookler@gmail.com. Follow us and keep up with our guests on Instagram and Facebook @canceractuallysuckspodcast

I'm so thankful to have Lauren Gilley on the episode today to share her experience and story as a first time mom to Ruby who recently completed treatment and is in remission from stage 4 Hebatoblastoma! Lauren talks about how they first discovered Ruby's diagnosis, how even during chemo Ruby was hitting milestones like walking, gaining weight, and starting to talk and how absolutely resilient Ruby was throughout the whole process. Lauren also opens up about trying to find other parents with kids that have or had this type of cancer since it's so rare, how relating to other parents was extremely difficult and how little childhood cancer is researched compared to adult cancer. Her and Ruby are truly so inspiring and Lauren's outlook on this whole experience is incredible. You can follow her for updates on Ruby @laur_gilley on Instagram & Twitter Follow us to keep up with guests and new episodes on Facebook and Instagram @canceractuallysuckspodcast

On this week's episode Maddy is talking to Matt Ode, Stage 3C Testicular Cancer Survivor and now keynote motivational speaker and cancer advocate. At 24 years old, Matt was a personal trainer and super healthy, but one day he started throwing up blood and discovered after a long line of tests that he had testicular cancer that had spread throughout his body. Matt opens up about how his body reacted to chemo, how as a man It can be difficult to open up about emotions, how his faith helped him persevere throughout his cancer experience, his complicated surgery after chemo and being in a two week coma, and what inspired him to become a motivational speaker after cancer. He also speaks to how we all need to be kinder to ourselves and “take imperfect action.” If you're ready to get motivated and inspired, you don't want to miss this episode! Request to join Matt's Facebook Group - Take Back Your Life From Cancer Follow him on Instagram @matty_ode Check out his website at mattodespeaks.com And his YouTube channel @mattode Follow our Instagram and Facebook for updates on guests @canceractuallysuckspodcast