Living Our Breast Lives

Join Wren Morrobel, founder of the Living Our Breast Lives podcast, and Darylene Finkelstein, founder of the Charlotte METsters support group, as they dive into what it takes to start your own in-person support group! In this episode, Dar shares all the tips, tricks, do's, and don'ts to help you create a thriving support network wherever you are in the U.S. While some find comfort in online communities, others long for in-person connections and friendships. What if you could be the one to bring people together—just like Dar has for so many in the Charlotte METsters group?Dar Finkelstein—70 years old, on her eleventh line of treatment, and a dedicated patient advocate, wife, mom, and stage four metastatic breast cancer thriver—is on a mission to build community and support those living with MBC in the greater Charlotte area. But she's not stopping there—she's determined to teach others across the country how to do the same!Listen and start your very own in-person support group today! Living Our Breast Lives Information:Email: livingourbreastlivespodcast1@gmail.comInstagram: @livingourbreastlivesFounder: Wren MorrobelPersonal Instagram: @wren_morr

Join Wren Morrobel, founder of the Living Our Breast Lives podcast, and Elissa Kalver, founder and CEO of the first-ever cancer registry nonprofit, WeGotThis.org, as they discuss the non profit's dedication to building a community of giving and receiving that helps cancer thrivers and supporters live their breast lives!Elissa Kalver — AYA (adolescent and young adult) patient advocate, wife, mom, and stage four metastatic breast cancer thriver—is on a mission to foster community and shine a light on the gaps in care and awareness faced by those newly diagnosed with cancer. Her dedication to supporting the cancer community resonates deeply with everyone who hears her speak. Join Wren and Elissa for a powerful conversation as Elissa shares her journey and gives you the inside scoop on how to start your own registry today! Living Our Breast Lives Information:Email: livingourbreastlivespodcast1@gmail.comInstagram: @livingourbreastlivesFounder: Wren MorrobelPersonal Instagram: @wren_morrFebruary Instagram segment happening now! Segment called, "Love Letters to Ourselves - Self-Love Stories from Women Living with Metastatic Breast Cancer"Elissa Kalver's Contact Information:Email: Elissa@wegotthis.orgNon profit Website: wegotthis.orgPersonal Website: Elissakalver.comInstagram: @elissakalver @wegotthis.orgFacebook: facebook.com/wegotthis.orgYoutube: youtube.com/@wegotthisorgThriver Blog: https://community.wegotthis.org/Book: We Got This: How I Learned to Thrive with Terminal Cancer (found on Amazon!)Newsletter: community.wegotthis.org/new-member-sign-up/Other AYA non profits mentioned during the episode: - Dear Jack Foundation @dearjackfoundation- Stupid Cancer @stupidcancer-Elephants and Tea @elephantsandteamagazine- Bright Spot Network @brightspotnetwork- I'm Not Done Yet @bmenges_imnotdoneyet

Enjoy Living Our Breast Lives' last podcast episode of the year! Join Wren Morrobel, founder of the Living Our Breast Lives podcast, and Caroline Johnson, the founder of Twisted Pink, a nonprofit dedicated to funding critical research for Metastatic Breast Cancer! Together, they delve into the nonprofit's framework, the impact of allyship in advocating for the MBC community as an early-stage survivor, and their shared takeaways from the 2024 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium!Caroline Johnson—a patient advocate, wife, mom of three, and an 11-year stage three breast cancer survivor—shares her inspiring mission to direct critical funding toward Stage IV Metastatic Breast Cancer research. Her passion for advocacy stems from years of championing her son, born with a rare genetic deletion called BBSOAS. These profound medical and healthcare experiences not only shaped her advocacy journey but also empowered her to navigate her own breast cancer diagnosis with strength and determination.Caroline's unwavering dedication to supporting the MBC community shines through every time she speaks. She remains a passionate advocate for improved healthcare systems and policies benefiting individuals with rare diseases and cancer. As an early-stage survivor, she feels grateful to continue preventative treatment to this day, stay informed about clinical trials, and emphasize the vital role research plays in advancing cancer care.Living Our Breast Lives Information:Email: livingourbreastlives@gmail.comInstagram: @livingourbreastlivesFounder: Wren MorrobelPersonal Instagram: @wren_morrCaroline Johnson's Contact Information:Email: cvanjohnson73@twistedpink.orgWebsite: twistedpink.orgInstagram: @twistedpinkorgFacebook: Twisted PinkLinkedin: linkedin.com/company/twisted-pink-incYoutube: youtube.com/@TwistedPink

Join Living Our Breast Lives founder, Wren, and special guest, Tami Eagle Bowling, the creator of LightUpMBC Live, for this powerful and uplifting episode as they discuss Tami's continued efforts for funding Metastatic Breast Cancer research, helping to create a better future for all diagnosed!With no family history, at the age of 41, Tami Eagle Bowling was diagnosed with ER+ HER2- Metastatic Breast Cancer. Seemingly healthy, doing cardio kickboxing one day, and being told she had a 2-3 year life expectancy a few weeks later was a diagnosis she never would have anticipated. She had to adapt to this unexpected bombshell in her life when her children were just two and four years old. In order to thrive, she began to embrace the uncertainty of her daily life. She has now been living with Metastatic Breast Cancer for nine years and shares her story to inspire others!About our Guest Speaker, Tami Eagle Bowling:Tami, the creator and co-host of LightUpMBC Live has been featured on The TODAY Show, Good Morning America, NY1, News12, Fox5, CBS NY, Comcast Newsmakers, Glamour Magazine and more for her steadfast dedication to helping others survive and thrive! Her message of resilience and passion for life resonate loud and clear to all who hear her speak, so get ready for a powerful conversation between Tami and Wren where we'll get the inside scoop of what true advocacy really looks like and how much it benefits the MBC community!  Her mantra is "Make Each Day Meaningful." Upon diagnosis, she decided to turn her energy towards advocacy. As a result of her tireless dedication, she has led efforts that have raised over $2 million in funding for MBC research grants! Tami is the Global Campaign Director of #LightUpMBC, a global campaign that shines a light on the disease to benefit METAvivor by illuminating landmarks in the MBC colors around the world. She is also the Creator of #LightUpMBC Live, a virtual benefit that provides a platform for patients to share their stories while also featuring musical performances for inspiration.Not only did Tami create the framework, The Eagle Method, in order to help those cope with the uncertainties of life, she was also the recipient of a Play for P.I.N.K. Humanitarian Award and has been using her voice for the last several years to advocate for better laws for Metastatic Breast Cancer patients nationwide, as well as in her home state of New Jersey, through METAvivor's Stage IV Stampede. Tami is passionate about inspiring others and enjoys sharing her insights on embracing uncertainty. Thank you for listening! Living Our Breast Lives Information:Instagram: @livingourbreastlivesFounder: Wren Morrobel @wren_morrInstagram Segment: Nothing Pink found on InstagramTami Eagle Bowling Contact Information:Email: lightupmbc.campaigndirector@gmail.comInstagram: @eaglemethod/ @lightupmbcFacebook: Tami Eagle BowlingWebsite: eaglemethod.comConnect on LinkedIn!Donate to Wren's Personal Fundraising Page as the LightUpMBC NC State Captain: https://donate.metavivor.org/wrenmorr24Donate to Stage Four MBC Research: donate.metavivor.orgDon't forget to tune into LightUpMBC Live on October 13th, 2024 at 8PM EST! Links provided on both social media platforms: @lightupmbc and @metavivor

Join Living Our Breast Lives founder, Wren, for this fierce solo episode as she delves into the significance of her 5 YEAR MBC Anniversary as a 35 year old mTNBC Thriver! Hear her compelling diagnosis story and engage in an empowering conversation about advocacy and the critical importance of continued funding for Metastatic Breast Cancer research! Wren is currently 4.5 years No Evidence of Disease (NED) and 5 years living with MBC when the statistics said only 12% of women with the Triple Negative subtype will make it to that five year mark. In this episode she talks about her current immunotherapy, the power behind science, research, and funding, and continuing to advocate for herself as a patient advocate.Five years of pure hardship, but more importantly, five years of growth and beauty. Although Wren's journey comes with scars, trauma, and grief, she is a beautiful, yet imperfect work of art, and reminder that we must have hope that there are better days to come. **This episode is a tribute to all the MBC Thrivers out there who we've lost along the way, and to the people who doubted I'd still be here five years later.**Understanding Triple Negative Breast Cancer: As breast cancer affects an increasing number of women under 50, more attention has turned to TNBC, an aggressive subtype that disproportionately affects younger women. TNBC is defined by what it lacks. While 85% of breast cancers are classified by three common markers—markers that give treatments a target to attack—TNBC has none of those, meaning it has fewer treatment options making it harder to treat. ____________________________________________________Living Our Breast Lives:Instagram: @livingourbreastlivesFounder: Wren @wren_morr on InstagramLightUpMBC Personal Fundraising Page:donate.metavivor.org/fundraiser/5564372METAvivor Research & Support:Instagram: @metavivorDonate to Stage IV Research: donate.metavivor.org

Diagnosed at only eighteen years old, join Living Our Breast Lives founder, Wren, for this special episode with AYA Thriver, Brittney Beadle, as they dive deep into her incredible journey of advocacy as a Metastatic Breast Cancer Thriver! After countless run-ins with progression during her nine years living with MBC, Brittney remains a beacon of positivity and love for life! Her infectious spirit uplifts everyone around her, and her social media account touches and educates the lives of countless people around the world.  Boundless Love for Life: having an endless and limitless passion and enthusiasm for living. It conveys a deep appreciation for life, regardless of the challenges or difficulties faced.  Listen to this heartfelt conversation as Wren and Brittney delve into Brittney's boundless love for life, the many challenges both thrivers face as AYA (adolescent young adult) cancer patients, and of course, the daily strategies and coping mechanisms they use to help overcome these struggles each day. _____________________________________________ Living Our Breast Lives Information: Instagram: @livingourbreastlives Founder: Wren Morrobel @wren_morr Brittney Beadle's Information: Instagram: @brittneybeadle Book: Info: A Peace of Hope: Finding Inner Peace and Healing Through Stage IV Cancer: https://a.co/d/f72J8CB Documentary: Thriver: A Survivor Story Available on Amazon Prime, YouTube, and Vimeo where all proceeds earned from Amazon Prime will be donated to Metastatic Breast Cancer research! Donate to Wren's personal #LightUpMBC fundraising page:  https://donate.metavivor.org/wrenmorr24 Every day 117 people in the U.S. die of metastatic breast cancer (MBC), also known as Stage 4, where the breast cancer has spread to other parts of the body. 100% of net proceeds from the #LightUpMBC campaign benefit METAvivor to fund MBC research. METAvivor Research & Support: Instagram: @metavivor Facebook: METAvivor Research & Support Inc. Donate to Stage IV Research: donate.metavivor.org

Welcome to the first episode of 2024! Join LOBL founder, Wren, for this special episode with guest speaker, Adiba Barney, as they discuss a miraculous journey through surrogacy, a nine year thrivership having Metastatic Breast Cancer, the challenges of divorce post-diagnosis, METAvivor insights, and the empowering tale of starting a new life as a single mother. This episode is packed with passion, knowledge, experience, vulnerability, thrivership, and so much love!  ALSO! Living Our Breast Lives' upcoming instagram segment, featuring Adiba herself, is underway! It's time to Pay it Forward! Beginning March 1st, LOBL's newest segment, Pay it Forward, will take the stage as 31 Metastatic Breast Cancer Thrivers who've gained valuable lessons over the years share their wisdom, advice, and most importantly, their firsthand experience living with MBC. All in hopes to making the beginning stages of coping with this disease easier for those newly diagnosed. It takes a village!  Thanks for listening, and remember; when life hands you cactuses, make margaritas, and ALSO, don't forget to live your breast lives! ———————————————————————— Living Our Breast Lives Information:   Instagram: @livingourbreastlives Founder: Wren @wren_morr on instagram ————————————————-——————— METAvivor Research & Support: Instagram: @metavivor Facebook: METAvivor Research and Support Inc. Donate to Stage IV Research: donate.metavivor.org MBC Travelers Group:  Instagram: @mbc_travelers Facebook: MBC Travelers Nonprofit Participants Adiba Barney's Information:  Email: Adiba.barney@gmail.com Instagram: @adibabarney Facebook: Adiba Barney Book: When Life Hands You Cactuses, Make Margaritas 

It's the holiday season again, friends! Join Wren for this solo episode as her feelings and emotions take center stage, survivors guilt is prevalent, gratitude is beaming, and she holds nothing back in addressing the heartache that accompanies every piece of bad news for the Metastatic Breast Cancer community. We must remember and continue to tell ourselves, THEIR STORY IS NOT OUR STORY. Be very grateful for those sitting around your Thanksgiving and/or Christmas tables this 2023 holiday season... not everyone is experiencing this same gift

It's the holidays again! Join Wren for this holiday solo episode as her feelings and emotions take center stage, survivors guilt is prevalent, gratitude is beaming, and she holds nothing back in addressing the heartache that accompanies every piece of bad news for the MBC community.

Join Living Our Breast Lives founder and host, Wren, for another solo episode as she discusses how she is feeling during the 2023 holiday season. Feelings and emotions are running rampant, survivors guilt is in full swing, gratitude is very much so present, and Wren certainly does not hold back as she discusses the heartache she feels each and every time there is another loss in the MBC community. We must remember, THEIR STORY IS NOT OUR STORY. Resources: Instagram: @livingourbreastlives

Join Living Our Breast Lives founder and host, Wren, for another solo episode as she discusses how she is feeling during the 2023 holiday season. Feelings and emotions are running rampant, survivors guilt is in full swing, and Wren certainly does not hold back as she discusses the heartache she feels each and every time there is another loss in the MBC community. We must remember, THEIR STORY IS NOT OUR STORY. Resources: Instagram: @livingourbreastlives

Join Living Our Breast Lives founder and host, Wren, for another solo episode as she discusses how she is feeling during the 2023 holiday season. Feelings and emotions are running rampant, survivors guilt is in full swing, and Wren certainly does not hold back as she discusses the heartache she feels each and every time there is another loss in the MBC community. We must remember, THEIR STORY IS NOT OUR STORY. Resources: Instagram: @livingourbreastlives Where Can I Donate? Donate to Stage IV Research: donate.metavivor.org

Join LOBL founder, Wren, for this solo episode as she discusses upcoming changes to the podcast, but more importantly, tune in as she discusses the most recent life lesson she has learned while living four years with metastatic breast cancer as a mTNBC thriver. Life lessons are blessings in disguise. They help us reflect, grow, and make necessary changes that have the ability to implement positive outcomes in the future. If you're lucky enough to experience one of God's beautiful life lessons, grab onto it and don't let go! Maybe it will guide you to the light like it has for Wren!  This month's Instagram segment is currently featuring stories of previvors, survivors, and thrivers from our community! Join us each day as we share survivorship from diverse backgrounds, allowing one person's journey to create connections with those experiencing similar challenges! Thank you to all those who participated in this months segment, and feel free to check it out on Living Our Breast Lives Instagram above!  Resources: Living Our Breast Lives Information: Instagram: @livingourbreastlives Where Can I Donate? Donate to Stage IV Research: donate.metavivor.org

In this episode, Wren and Cait talk candidly about what its like to live with an incurable diagnosis; from the need for, or lack of, support to discussing the unexpected ways cancer changed (and continues to change) their lives to sharing some insight into how to offer support to someone who is on "treatment for life". This episode is a must, not only for patients but for those who are supporting a patient. Resources: Living Our Breast Lives Information: Instagram: @livingourbreastlives Email: livingourbreastlivespodcast@gmail.com Where Can I Donate? Donate to Stage IV Research: donate.metavivor.org Unite for HER nonprofit organization: Instagram: @unite4her

Living Our Breast Lives' "AYA May" segment was a huge hit this past month! Thank you to all our MBC thrivers who participated! AYA patients also known as adolescent & young adults are a unique population in the oncology space. They are often underserved and underrepresented. This results in missed or delayed diagnoses, insurance coverage issues, lack of support for sexual health and fertility concerns, lack of peer support groups, and impacts to career/education/relationships. Because of this, cohosts Wren and Cait decided what better way to highlight this very specific group of thrivers than to do a segment, and following the segment, have a very special AYA MBC thriver join us on the pod! Diagnosed with MBC at 26, our guest has made a place for herself and others on social media, specifically Tik Tok and Instagram, through sharing her experience with humor and honesty. To conclude our "AYA May" segment, join the ladies as we speak to the one and only, Annie Bond, as she shares valuable insight, advice, and of course, some laughs! Thank you for your continued support and HAPPY LISTENING! Cohosts, Wren & Cait Living Our Breast Lives Information: Instagram: @livingourbreastlives Email: livingourbreastlivespodcast@gmail.com Resources: AYA online resources found on LOBL IG Where Can I Donate? Donate to Stage IV Research: donate.metavivor.org Want to reach out to our special guest Annie? IG & TT: @theanniebond

These are a few of our favorite things! Living Our Breast Lives presents Wren & Cait's cancer "must-haves" during chemo, radiation, and surgery! This episode provides personal must-haves, but also must-haves from our very own breast cancer community! Are you newly diagnosed or going through a certain treatment and feeling overwhelmed trying to figure out what you'll need during this chaotic time? Are you a friend or family member wanting to show up and support a loved one going through a cancer journey but unsure how to be helpful in the situation? Look no further! From accessible clothing to ice neuropathy mittens, to essential gifts to (not) such essential gifts, you'll be amazed at all the helpful items and tips presented in this episode! (Specific items mentioned will be linked in an instagram highlight and can be found on our instagram page for easy access) Thank you for your continued support and HAPPY LISTENING! Cohosts, Wren & Cait _________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Living Our Breast Lives Information: instagram: @livingourbreastlives Email: livingourbreastlivespodcast@gmail.com Where Can I Donate? Donate to Stage IV Research: donate.metavivor.org bcrf.org

March is all about Triple Negative Breast Cancer Awareness! Want to know more about TNBC? During this episode, Cait does an excellent job at explaining everything you need to know! Join Wren and Cait for this exceptional and at times, emotional, interview with guest speaker and fellow mTNBC thriver, Stephanie, as they discuss clinical trials, ten YEARS of survival, and the fearless journey one takes in order to be heard, seen, and most importantly, not dismissed. Stephanie's response to, "go home and get your affairs in order" will leave you stunned, yet empowered. Stephanie and all the other survivors and thrivers taking part in clinical trials are essentially paving the way and making it possible for other people to get future lifesaving treatment in the clinical setting! Thank you to all these brave individuals taking the risk and paving the way for others! Feel free to check out our instagram page where we featured and showcased uplifting and hopeful stories from 24 mTNBC thrivers in the community this month! A special thank you to all our mTNBC thrivers who participated in our instagram segment this month: Our very own host, Wren, Deltra, Kim, Jen, Michelle G, Stephanie M, Mechelle, Amy, Daniela, Mallory, Michelle A, Birgit, Lora, Cheryl, Cara, Chelle, Caitlan, Maryanne, Val, Brooke, Raven, Lisa, Karen, and of course our very own special guest today, Stephanie! Thank you for your continued support and HAPPY LISTENING! Cohosts, Wren & Cait ______________________________________________________________________ Living Our Breast Lives Information: Instagram: @livingourbreastlives Email: livingourbreastlivespodcast@gmail.com Where Can I Donate? Donate to Stage IV Research: donate.metavivor.org Donate to TNBC Research: BCRF The Breast Cancer Research Foundation bcrf.org or link in our instagram bio

March is Triple Negative Breast Cancer Awareness Month, so what better time to feature an mTNBC thriver who just celebrated their FIVE year cancerversary!  On this episode of Living Our Breast Lives, join Wren and Cait for this exceptional interview with guest speaker and fellow MBC thriver, Cheryl, as they discuss what it's like for a physician to be diagnosed with metastatic triple negative breast cancer. This informative and very touching episode will have you feeling a certain type of way as we portray the many eye opening moments and hardships that come with a physician having to unexpectedly receive care from others rather than give it. Key Moments: - Listen as Cheryl discusses what it was like to navigate her initial diagnosis and treatment plan as both the patient and physician  - Listen as Cheryl talks about whether being a physician made the overall diagnosis experience harder or easier for her  - Listen as Cheryl discusses whether her perspective changed on certain things once the roles shifted and she became the patient   Cheryl has advocated alongside other black female physicians to bring awareness to cancer awareness, screening, treatment, and research for black patients. Listen as she discusses why improving cancer care in the black community is so important.  You wil not want to miss out on this episode! It will leave you feeling inspired, vulnerable, aware, and most importantly, informed! Thank you for listening and for your continued support, Wren & Cait _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Living Our Breast Lives Information: Instagram: @livingourbreastlives Email: livingourbreastlivespodcast@gmail.com Where Can I Donate? Donate to Stage IV Research: donate.metavivor.org

February is Black History Month!  One of Living Our Breast Lives' New Year's resolutions was to bring more MBC thrivers onto the podcast to not only share their stories and experiences, but to also spread much needed awareness on issues and topics we may not fully understand or be well-versed in.  Join Wren and Cait for this exceptional interview with guest speaker and fellow thriver, Deltra, as they discuss racial disparities within the breast cancer community, shared-personal experiences, and of course, an abundance of resources!  The Living Our Breast Lives' cohosts felt that informed, firsthand storytelling was the only, most effective approach to trying to close these unfortunate gaps in our healthcare system. This isn't our story to tell, but it is a story that can help all of us with our shared goal of continuing to build community, lifting each other up, and living our breast lives!  This episode will leave you feeling inspired, vulnerable, aware, and most importantly, informed! You don't want to miss it!  Thanks for your continued support, Wren & Cait Resources: Touch: The Black Breast Cancer Alliance is a collaborative organization aiming to eradicate black breast cancer  Instagram: @touchbbca Chemo Divas: Provides cancer resources, financial support, and visibility to women of color Instagram: @chemodivas For The Breast of Us: The first inclusive breast cancer community for women of color - check out their Facebook page as well! Instagram: @forthebreastofus Shay Sharpe's Pink Wishes: Grant wishes to young women who have been impacted by terminal breast cancer Instagram: @shaysharpespinkwishes Infinite Strength: Provides financial aid and emotional support to single mothers with MBC and their children  Instagram: @strengthforhealing Tigerlily Foundation: Educating and empowering those on their breast cancer journey while also advocating social justice health disparities Instagram: @tigerlily_foundation Living Our Breast Lives Information: Instagram: @livingourbreastlives Email: livingourbreastlivespodcast@gmail.com Where can I donate? Donate to Stage IV Research: donate.metavivor.org Instagram: @metavivor

Happy New Year! Join Wren and Cait as they discuss New Year's resolutions that might leave you looking at life differently! Resolutions for someone with metastatic breast cancer tend to look differently because perspectives have shifted, priorities have changed, and the things that used to be most important - are no longer. In the cancer world, you cant always guarantee there won't be trials and tribulations, but setting resolutions can help you focus more on the things that bring you joy and make those heavy things lighter! Tune in as we talk about resolutions including; self-love, boundaries, and getting on the damn plane, and if your only resolution for 2023 is to survive, that's okay. We see you, we hear you, and we stand with you. Let's make it the greatest year yet! Instagram: @livingourbreastlives

Ho, Ho, Help! Join Wren and Cait Kelley for their second episode together as Cait takes on the role as Living Our Breast Lives' newest cohost! As our previous cohost, Brittany, steps away from the podcast to prioritize her health, Wren and Cait continue to have the hard and necessary discussions around having an MBC diagnosis.  Although, it's supposed to be the "most wonderful time of the year," today's episode dives into the many hardships one may be facing during the holiday season; - grieving the loss of a loved one and/or your pre-cancer life - suffering from strained family relationships - increased or heightened anxiety and depression - juggling being immunocompromised in a world of many viruses - balancing holiday cheer and holiday fear as a thriver - the paranoia of treatment and/or scans falling on the days leading up to Christmas  - the financial burden that comes with the many unrealistic high expectations of the "picture perfect" Christmas We must remind ourselves to protect our peace at all costs and to put ourselves first! We're talking ALL the things, so don't forget to tune in and subscribe!  On behalf of the Living Our Breast Lives cohosts, give yourself grace this holiday season and be proud of how far you have come. Happy New Year! Instagram: @livingourbreastlives

Join Wren and special guest, Cait Kelley as they have a very hard yet very necessary conversation about survivors guilt and what it's like to lose people they loved to Metastatic breast cancer. This Thanksgiving we honor these tremendous losses and with each and every day we are gifted on this Earth, we will continue to get loud and advocate for those who cannot any longer. We must continue to pass on their legacies and remain hopeful that one day, someday soon, MBC can go from awareness to action so more precious lives can be saved. Instagram: @livingourbreastlives

Join Wren and Brittany for this very light episode where they discuss breast cancer awareness month officially coming to an end, and the very shocking link between cancer and one of the personality types; A, B, and now added to the group, personality type C! Get ready to learn about the three different personality types and even establish yours, specifically! It is theorized that one of these personality types have a higher likelihood of developing cancer because of this idea when your mind is stuck in a stressed or negative state, the “fight or flight” part of your mind starts to run excessively, and your nervous system begins to tell you that you are always stressed, even if a situation is not warranting that level of a stress response. Which personality type warrants such activity? Tune in to find out! "The greatest weapon against stress is our ability to choose one thought over another.'" Happy listening! LOBL instagram: @livingourbreastlives https://www.buzzfeed.com/genamourbarrett/are-you-more-type-a-type-b-or-type-c

Happy October 13th! It is officially MBC DAY! Join Wren and Brittany as they get LOUD as they discuss the dreaded "Pinktober" along with an entire episode on the many raw truths of Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness. Help us share this episode to EDUCATE EDUCATE EDUCATE! Share with your family, share with your friends, share with whomever, lets just get this important information out there to the public for once and for ALL!

Happy ONE YEAR PODCAST ANNIVERSARY to Living Our Breast Lives! Join Wren and Brittany for Episode 20 as they discuss the many celebrations this year has to offer! Including both of their 3 YEAR MBC-versaries! Thats right! Three years living with Metastatic Breast Cancer! Wren and Brittany are SO happy to be helping and making a difference in the MBC community! For those of you who continue to listen and support, THANK YOU! Its because of YOU that Wren and Brittany keep recording each month!  This podcast started out as just a silly idea as Wren and Brittany sat in the backyard together drinking wine one day. It was only their second time hanging out as they reminisced about how beautiful it would be to give newly diagnosed MBC thrivers a chance to relate, belong, accept, and develop a more positive way of thinking about their diagnosis. They knew it would be the perfect opportunity to share their very different and unique stories with other women going through the same as them!  Fast forward one year and HERE WE ARE! Cheers to the start of year TWO! Check out our instagram page: @livingourbreastlives

Join Wren and Brittany as they shed some light on the beauty that lies within! Let's talk, SELF LOVE! Loving yourself, physically, can be exhausting, let alone after a cancer diagnosis. Sometimes, the person looking back at you in the mirror is not someone you recognize anymore, and its even harder if you no longer like what you see. Let's get back to that place of love, acceptance, patience, and remember to give ourselves grace for what our bodies have endured! Let's help and inspire others to want to care less about the minuscule things that don't tend to matter as much as we THINK they do!  Happy listening!  Follow us on instagram at @livingourbreastlives

Join Brittany and her special guest, Carla Dempsey as they discuss spiritual healing with focus on Reiki! Be on the look out for the many "ah ha" moments! Healing from cancer or other conditions may not always come from medication alone, but also from integrative therapies such as Reiki, Acupuncture, and so much more. If you have never heard of, or are curious about how Reiki can help, this is an episode you don't want to miss! Find a location that offers Reiki near you, and help become the best version of yourself, both inside and out! Find all of Carla's information on her website! transformwellnesscenter.net Find us on Instagram: @livingourbreastlives

Let's say it all together, VAGINA!!!!!! Join Wren and Brittany as they discuss the physical, mental, and emotional challenges of a sex life with cancer. Learn about the importance of vaginal health, how to get there if it is lacking, and ways to help. Additionally, hear from Wren regarding what fertility treatments are like for a young cancer patient who wants to freeze their embryos before starting chemotherapy. Enjoy this very personal, yet lighthearted episode about how its never too late to get back to the sex life you envision for yourself regardless of the circumstance!

Welcome to your blissful thirties! So we THOUGHT! Join Wren and Brittany as they go behind the scenes and discuss what its like to have cancer in your thirties. Expect light hearted, fun, informative, but most importantly, eye opening, to say the least. Being diagnosed as an AYA (adolescent young adult) cancer patient is complicated and messy, don't miss out on this opportunity to hear the many truths that come with an early aged diagnosis.

Get the inside scoop with this awesome Q&A episode! In this episode of Living Our Breast Lives, Wren and Brittany answer some questions submitted by their followers! They also share some things that "would have been nice to know" beforehand, but had to learn along the way of their cancer journeys. There are a lot of takeaways in this episode to not only help you, but also a loved one or a caregiver, so be sure to share or pass the information right along! We love women helping other women! Just remember, if you don't ask the right questions, you certainly wont get the answers! 

The incredible Dr. Mary Lacey, a behavioral health psychologist is joining Living Our Breast Lives to gift us with all her beautiful knowledge and professional advice regarding mental health and what that experience might be like for someone diagnosed with breast cancer, early or late stage. Mary is a breast cancer survivor, a mom, and a psychologist with her very own private practice of 20 years providing individual/ family therapy, couples counseling, and specializing in anxiety, depression, and ADHD. Struggling with mental health is very common for a lot of people, regardless of the circumstance. So how do you cope? Tune in for all the answers! Also on this podcast: - Recently diagnosed and wish for nothing more than to try and save your hair during chemotherapy treatment? Doctor Mary Lacey discusses Cold Capping in great length!  - Looking for short term financial assistance because you are currently in treatment and unable to work? Wren discusses nonprofits all over the country that strive to relieve you of any financial burdens you may be experiencing.   A Few Nonprofits to Research: Go Jen Go United Breast Cancer Foundation (UBCF) Life Beyond Breast Cancer (LBBC) Cancer Care Pretty in Pink Remember Betty The Pink Fund Hope Abounds Find us on Instagram: @livingourbreastlives

Most, if not all of us, have heard of Post-Traumatic Stress. But have you ever heard of Post-Traumatic Growth? On this episode, Wren and Brittany will talk about Post-Traumatic Growth, the five categories (appreciation of life, relationships with others, new possibilities in life, personal strength, spiritual change) in the self-reporting scale, and whether they believe they have achieved. Sources: Healthline.com Positivepsychology.com Blogs.scientificamerican.com

Ever wonder what it's like for both a mother and daughter to experience and navigate a breast cancer diagnosis? Join the LOBL girls as they share two inspirational, yet very deep conversations had with both their mothers who were also diagnosed with breast cancer. It's not necessarily the mother/daughter shared experience the four women had been longing for, but you'll be amazed at the level of physical/ emotional/ psychological/ and spiritual strength you feel when listening to both of these very different conversations. Having a positive attitude, being able to find laughter in the most uncomfortable of situations, and ultimately, having unconditional faith and belief in God is what will see you through this. 

We're back! Join Wren & Brittany for this very emotional, YET highly educational episode after taking a 2.5 month long break! Listen to Brittany as she shares details about her most recent scans and find out the reason for a much needed podcast break. Listen to the very different perspectives as we continue to discuss the unpredictability of MBC and how important a sisterhood really is when dealing with the rollercoaster of emotions this disease continuously brings. METAvivor Donation Link: https://www.metavivor.org/take-action/donate/

Join Wren and Brittany as they discuss the importance in knowing when to take a break! Emotional, mental, and physical exhaustion is real! It's time for you to put yourself first, take care of your well being, and start looking at acknowledgment as a form of strength, not weakness! Whether it's a diagnosis, caregiving, parenting, or even one's work load, it's important to note that there are many benefits to taking a break and removing yourself from an environment that's causing you more harm than good. Happy listening!

Try not to get emotional as you listen to Wrens husband, Danny, get vulnerable as he talks openly about this journey they are on together! Get a better understanding from the caretakers point of view! We all know its never easy for the people we love to see us go through something as treacherous as a cancer diagnosis, so today's episode is meant to shed light on the bravery and hardship one's partner might face while experiencing a life altering situation with the person they love most. It's easy to get caught up and forget to acknowledge the person standing right next to you, the person who loves you most, the person who has never left your side. So to all partners, spouses, family members, and caretakers, please know you are loved and very much appreciated! 

Join Wren and Brittany as they walk you through the true meaning of Christmas! The true magic of Christmas is giving to those in need to help those less fortunate. You don't have to have a lot of money to help others! Some of the most generous people have the least they are able to give, but are rich at heart and do so without a second thought. When we help and care for others, God does the same for us! TAKEAWAYS: - Giving makes us feel happy - Giving is good for our health - Giving promotes cooperation and social connection - Giving evokes gratitude  - Giving is contagious https://greatergood.berkeley.edu https://sunshinewhispers.com

Wren and Brittany discuss quarterly scan results and what tends to be lurking in the dark... everyone's least favorite friend, “scanxiety”  There are many situations in life where we tend to lack control. Join Wren and Brittany as they navigate a healthy approach to reacting to change. Sometimes it's better to accept/ embrace change, and as Wren likes to say, “roll with the punches!” Fixating on what you cannot change and playing the “would have, could have, should have” blame game never seems to get you anywhere!

Wren and Brittany discuss the “hot and cold” of social media! The truth is: Social media can bring out a lot of insecurities, but without it, how would we all stay connected to our friends and family!? Knowing your limits, setting boundaries, being aware of how certain things make you feel, maybe even using that easy “mute” button when certain things trigger you.. all can help bring us a sense of peace when navigating good ol' social media! Let's remember to stop chasing photos and be more present in the moment because life is simply beautiful! Don't forget to put the the phone down and enjoy it! ;) LINKS: https://www.metavivor.org/take-action/campaigns/lightupmbc/ https://www.facebook.com/metavivor/ https://instagram.com/livingourbreastlives

Join Wren and Brittany in episode five as they discuss where their deep gratitude for life comes from! Sometimes we go to the typical, roof over my head, food in my belly, clothes on my back, as things we are grateful for. We're not saying this is surface level gratitude because those are indeed things everyone should be thankful for, but let's think of gratitude as it can go much deeper. Take a moment to sit in silence. Think about your life. Ask yourself, "Who am I? How did I become this person? Where am I at in my life? How did I get to this very moment?" When you sit with your thoughts, you can discover the depths of where your gratitude begins, how everything you are, everything you will be, has come from somewhere, from something, and from someone. https://www.metavivor.org/take-action/campaigns/lightupmbc/ https://www.facebook.com/metavivor/ https://instagram.com/livingourbreastlives

We all know no one is guaranteed another second. Wren and Brittany talk about how an illness can make that more of a reality for you. There is an emphasis on the importance of time and making the most of every second you are given because the time we have should never be taken for granted. "Imagine if you wake up every day with 84,600 dollars in your bank account. And every day, at the end of the night, it's gone whether you wasted it or not. And then the next day you get another 84,600 dollars. You would do everything in your power to spend it. Because you know the next day you are getting 84,600 dollars. You don't want to leave anything there. You'd make the best of it, right? You get 84,600 seconds. Why waste time? It doesn't carry over to the next day. It doesn't earn interest. Take every day and every moment and make something of it. Make something positive." https://www.metavivor.org/take-action/campaigns/lightupmbc/ https://www.facebook.com/metavivor/ https://instagram.com/livingourbreastlives

It's October 13th, which means Wren and Brittany are celebrating Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day! Don't forget to live stream #LightUpMBC through Metavivor where you will hear inspiring stories told by our beautiful MBC community and even better, view the illuminated global landmarks lit up in pink, teal, and green! *The MBC ribbon colors* This event not only raises awareness for MBC, but also raises funds that go entirely to MBC research so more lives can be saved! Today's episode will also focus on advocacy where Wren and Brittany will give you the necessary tools to successfully become your very own advocate. Health should be your main priority- if something feels off, ACT on it! https://www.metavivor.org/take-action/campaigns/lightupmbc/ https://www.facebook.com/metavivor/ https://instagram.com/livingourbreastlives

Wren and Brittany sit down to talk about the importance of mindset! They also share many coping mechanisms to help channel your energy into positivity when going through a challenging time. Don't forget to take the time to celebrate ALL THE WINS! (Big and little!) Life is too short! TAKEAWAYS: Avoid Stressors Eliminate Negativity Learn Acceptance Find Normalcy Have Trust and Faith in God Follow the lives of Wren and Britt and get updates about the podcast on Instagram at @livingourbreastlives.

Meet Wren and Brittany and hear how their sisterhood began. Listen how these women, both diagnosed with Metastatic Breast Cancer in their early thirties, are not letting a life altering diagnosis stop them from living their best life! Uh-hmm breast life! Get ready, because you're about to embark on both Wren and Brittany's journeys as they navigate all the ups and downs a cancer diagnosis can bring!  Takeaways: Life altering circumstances can change a person and it is ultimately up to that individual how they are going to cope. Moving forward with grace and dignity, can be powerful and awe-inspiring. Accepting that your life has its own unique journey and a purpose, perhaps you can not yet see, can lead to a beautiful awakening.

We are Wren and Brittany! We're just two women thriving with Metastatic Breast cancer, learning about self-love, appreciation, and this overall awakening to this beautiful gift we call life.  We have a passion for educating and bringing awareness to Metastatic Breast Cancer, but have also gained a lot of wisdom, insight, and perspective through navigating this disease and wanting to help others along the way. So we created this little podcast called Living Our Breast Lives! You can download this podcast wherever you get your podcasts and you can find us on Instagram at Living Our Breast Lives where we will share podcast updates, special dates, educational resources, and of course, health updates for those following our MBC journeys!  Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for tuning in and, as always ... Choose kindness! Instagram METAvivor.org