Michael and Mom Talk Cancer

Join Michael and Ashlee, AKA mom, as they talk to author (and so much more!) Tony Stewart. Tony's wife, Lynn, was diagnosed with cancer in 2014. 6 years later, she died at home in hospice, with grace and peace. Tony shares this beautiful story with the world, in his new book Carrying the Tiger: Living with Cancer, Dying with Grace, Finding Joy While Grieving. It is a love story, but Tony is so open about the challenges of being a caregiver, from caring for Lynn, to his own breakdown, and then, finding love again. Tony is full of energy and life, even as he shares his heartbreak. You can find all about Tony and his book here:https://www.tonystewartauthor.com/he is also on instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/tonystewartny/

Join Michael and ashlee AKA mom, as they talk to Louna Kadoch, mom of 3 and social worker who spent 20 years as a grief counselor before her own daughter, 12 year old Miriam, was diagnosed with neuroblastoma in 2022. Tragically, after only 4 months, Miriam died, but this has brought the family even closer. In Miriam's last few months of life, she shared so much wisdom, so much love, humor, energy, and generosity. Miriam's story is inspirational, as is her incredible mom, Louna, who has started her own podcast called "Out of Order". This conversation is emotional, beautiful, sad, funny, so real, so and full of wisdom and so much hope..... and LOVE.You can listen to Louna's podcast here:https://www.fizlink.com/outoforderYou can also check out the foundation who supported Miriam and her family:https://chailifelinecanada.org/

Join Michael and Mom as they talk to Anita, who started her page "The Awkward Life of Cancer" featuring Apollo the Alien to make her feel more normal. Or not normal, but accepting of herself in this awkward cancer life. A way to be creative, help someone else, help herself. Anita's smile is huge, and her heart is even bigger. She exudes positive vibes, although let's Michael and ashlee know that she, too, breaks down. On the regular. She even schedules it. Like Michael and ashlee, she lost someone close to her, her dad, before she was diagnosed with Neuroendocrine Carcinoma. Stage IV. Not easy for a young 22 year old who had just graduated college. But Anita is a light.... facing this head on with her quirky comic stickers and incredible personality.check out her page: https://awkward-life-of-cancer.square.site/and her instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awkward_life_of_cancer/

Join Michael and Ashlee (AKA mom) as they talk to Mark Sevillano and his mom, Yolanda. Mark went through an aggressive esophageal cancer that left him unable to swallow. Unable to eat. A single dad, he was so fortunate to have his family, in particular his incredible mom, beside him as he went through chemo, surgery, and more (or less!) chemo. Mark discovered that he needed to listen to his own body. Make his own decisions. And learn to destress his very stressful life. Mark and his mom are so full of hope and optmism! You will feel their good energy and so much love and connection. A common theme of both Michael and mom ashlee. https://www.instagram.com/mrmarktheofficiant/

Join Michael and mom as they talk to the beautiful philanthropist and highly decorated social worker from New York, Hal Eisenberg. This episode is special as Hal shares his very private and personal cancer story on the podcast, to the public, for the first time ever. They call it the big reveal! Hal's story is captivating, as he shares how he has approached his cancer treatment with a combination of Western treatments, Eastern treatments, and spirituality. He is on the spiritual journey of a life time and he brings so much perspective and wisdom, as well as beauty into his cancer journey. He states quite clearly that cancer has indeed become a gift in his life. He is a true ray of light.

Join Michael and Mom as they flip the tables and speak to podcast host, Kenny Perkins! Kenny, AKA, Your Cancer Guy, hosts his own cancer podcast, All Talk Oncology. He is a well-respected cancer coach, an author, and the best cheerleader and energy-booster out there! Kenny shares patient stories through his podcast, and empowers patients to connect, find strength and resilience through support, and to find the mindset to give cancer survivors resilience as they heal. The conversation is free flowing and full of laughter, as well as serious moments of reflection.Youc an find Kenny and his website, links to the podcast and coaching, here:⁠https://www.alltalkoncology.com/⁠

Join Michael and Mom (ashlee) as they talk to Miss Stayc, children's gymnastic coach extraordinaire! Diagnosed with a terminal lymphoma, Stayc took the hard road, decided to test an experimental new treatment her doctor offered as a last ditch effort, and paved the way for others to not only survive, but thrive. She is also the first woman ever to received cardiac stem cells to repair the damage to her heart, caused by radiation, chemo, and other cancer treatments. This lady is full of life, joy, and fun, but don't let that fool you. She is deep and more resilient than anyone...... find her on instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/gymagination/

Join Michael and Mom as they talk to Amy Hart. Amy is a colorectal cancer survivor; she lives with Lynch Syndrome and has permanent Ostomy. She is beautiful, sexy, smart, and funny! She is a mama, wife, has a full-time career and she advocates not only for colorectal cancer, but for ALL women AND men going through difficult times with health and body acceptance. The three laugh, get serious, talk about needed changes (especially for AYA's, adolescents and young adults going through cancer), listening to our bodies, advocating and standing up to doctors, and simply waking up and moving forward. Follow Amy and her inspiring journey on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/barefootostomate/?hl=en

Join Michael and Ashlee (Mom) as they talk with LaShae Rolle, AKA Strong After Cancer. She shares her story of how she went from elite college basketball athlete to pursuing her PHD in Public Health, all the while continuing her athletic side as a power lifter. While in the middle of her studies, she felt a lump and quickly was diagnosed with breast cancer, a total shock. Ironically, she was doing research about cancer prevention at the time of her diagnosis. But LaShae has managed to take her experiences and inspire others to stay Strong after cancer.... physically AND mentally.....even during treatment. Her story is one of knowledge, inspiration, motivation! Follow LaShae on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/strongaftercancer/

Join Michael and Ashlee (AKA Mom) as they talk with Michael's Child life specialist, Grisell. She shares her story of hoe she became a child life specialist, as well as stories of her experiences that changed perspective and lives. Child Life is not such a known specialty, but Michael and ashlee know from personal experience how it can change the entire hospital experience. Find out more on Child Life here: https://www.childlife.org/certification/become-certified

Michael and mom ashlee talk to Lana about living an adult life after pediatric cancer. It is not only the lasting emotional and psychological effects, but the long term physical effects are real. Chemo, radiation, and bone marrow transplant all come with a price. Lana shares her story of survivorship and all she does to ensure future pediatric oncology survivors have more support, more resources, more options. Find out more about ThriveFest and Camp UOTS here:https://www.campuots.org/

Join Michael and mama ashlee as they talk to Jason Pinchoff. Jason shares the unbelievable true story of first his mother diagnosed with breast cancer, and then tragically, just as she is declared in remission, his father and sister are killed in a car accident. His mother relapsed immediately, leaving Jason as a high school student and full time cancer caregiver. His mother fought hard, but 2 years later passed away. Jason took over the family business and had a choice. Dive into the darkness or rise up. He rose and soon started his foundation, in his mother's name: The Linda B Pinchoff Foundation. His story is the stuff movies are made of. Find out more about Jason and his incredible Foundation: https://bringavoice.org/ Follow on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bringavoice/

Meet Rashad Hayes, motivational speaker, author, social worker, cancer survivor. Rashad met Michael and mom at Cancercon, and instantly connected. Rashad is charismatic, funny, wise beyond his years, and full of the best advice. From a small town, thinking football would save him, things took a turn when he was in college and diagnosed with an incurable cancer. In the end, it was cancer, not football, that saved him. He now travels the world speaking and sharing his motivation through his acronym: CAKE! Find out more about Rashad, find his books, hire him to speak, and just get inspired: https://www.rashadhayesspeaks.com/ You can also find him on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rashadhayesspeaks/

Join Michael and mom, ashlee, as they talk to 20 year old Chris Archila, AKA Mr. Pound for Pound. Chris was diagnosed just after his 20th birthday with stage 4 liver cancer. The doctor told him he had 2 years to live, but Chris is fighting and making every moment count. He continues to work out, go to the gym, and keep his positive mindset., attributing much of his optimism to his strong faith in God. He is sweet, funny, down to earth, and even though he is a superhero, he sounds like a regular kid. But he's so much more... find him inspiring others on tiktok and instagram! https://www.instagram.com/mrlbforlb/ https://www.tiktok.com/@mrlbforlb

Join Michael and mom, ashlee, as they talk to Cristina, AKA Cristi. She shares her surprising cancer diagnosis at such a young age. She continues chemo, medications, infusions, but all the while, living her best life. Studying, going to concerts, sharing her story on social media! Her perspective is beautiful, that gift of cancer. She is funny, smart, and emotional. You can follow her journey on Instagram and Tiktok! https://www.instagram.com/cris.serendipity/ https://www.tiktok.com/@nojustcristina

Join Michael and Mom (ashlee) as they talk to the beautiful, talented actor, voice actor, model, copywriter, mother, and soon-to-be author about her journey. Erica was caregiver to her mother going through brain cancer, then found herself on her own cancer journey. Join the trio as they talk about caregiving, cancer, life lessons, being a mom, and Erica's new venture writing a book! Find out more about Erica here: https://itsericasand.com/ Follow her on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/itsericasand/

Join Michael and Mom (ashlee) as they talk to the upbeat, enthusiastic Holly Teixeira about her son Ryan and the Foundation 17 Strong, born out of his own cancer story. Ryan wanted to grant AYA's (adolescents and young adults facing cancer) a wish, a trip to a place of their dreams! Ryan passed away before the Foundation could grant those dream trips, but the year he died the Foundation was up and running and has not stopped ever since. Holly is Ryan's mom, but so much more. Join them as they talk about cancer, wishes, and continuing to dream. Find out more about !7 Strong and how to apply or donate here: https://www.17strong.org/

Michael and mom are HONORED to be joined by the beautiful, passionate, author, podcaster, inspirational speaker, founder of Leia's Kids ( https://leiaskids.org/ ) , 2 time cancer survivor and all around incredible human, Leia Hunt! Leia met Michael and ashlee at Cure Fest in Washington DC, bonded by childhood and young adult cancer advocacy. This conversation is full of dynamic energy and passion, and you can FEEL Leia's vision, as she makes the world better for children and families facing cancer. You can find more about Leia on her website https://leiaskids.org/ And you can follow her instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/leiahunt_/ We hope you listen and enjoy this uplifting conversation!

Michael and mom shoot the breeze, talking about recent struggles, Michael's recent breakup, adapting to long-term illness and the internal AND external scars. As usual, the two are full of laughter and hope, even while facing so many challenges. #gvhd #cancer #bmt #chronicillness #caregiving

Join Michael and mom, Ashlee, as they talk, laugh, connect, bond with Axel Schura, mindset and business coach, philanthropist, social media rockstar, health and wellness guru, successful podcaster, cancer survivor. Given 5 days to live in 2022, Axel is now opening up and sharing his life-changing diagnosis. Axel is full of fun and laughter, but he also shares his wisdom and depth, his story and his perspective, his incredible advice and mindset, in this beautiful conversation with Michael and mom. Find Axel on his website: https://axelschura.com/ and on instagram, tiktok and of course, his YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@axelschura

Join Michael and mom as they talk to Samira Daswani, savvy business woman, cancer survivor, host of the podcast Patient from Hell, and the founder of the incredible resource for ALL cancer survivors and caregivers: Mantacares.com https://mantacares.com/ .Samira is funny, wise, generous, beautiful. When she was faced with Breast Cancer at age 30, she realized she did not fit into the standard box, the normal cancer protocol. She questioned everything , asking all the how, what, why questions, and coming up with her own alternative solutions. The first solution was her all encompassing medical planner, which led to her podcast, and soon the support network, Manta Cares. Michael and ashlee were previously on Samira's podcast, Patient from Hell, but this conversation enlightened them even further into Samira's journey and inspiring mission to help other cancer survivors. Giving them a map. Resources. Community. Find Samira on her website and podcast! https://mantacares.com/ The journal is sold on her website and also on Amazon. #Cancer #breastcancer #GVHD #podcast #BMT #michaelandmom

Join Michael and mom, ashlee, as they chat about a recent Instagram comment from someone looking for purpose. Purpose is sometimes obvious, sometimes not. Sometimes BIG, sometimes simple. It changes and evolves.... Both Michael and ashlee share how purpose gets them out of bed, passion gives them meaning, helping others gives them even more love. #cancer #BMT #love #GVHD #purpose

Join Michael and mama ashlee as they welcome 3-time cancer survivor and author extraordinaire Michelle Rapkin. She discusses both her cancer diagnoses and treatments, as well as her newly released book, "Cancer Sucks, But You'll Get Through It". the book a detailed guide from someone who knows.... Michelle is full of knowledge, passion, energy and shares her story with both hope and humor. The tips are priceless. You can find her book on Amazon as well as ANYWHERE books are sold! Michael and ashlee bond with Michelle over common ground from what not to say to someone diagnosed with cancer, to how you can help.

Join Michael and ashlee (AKA mom) as they sit on the couch and reflect about a recent tough day, reminding them that life is not linear, healing is not linear. As usual, the two laugh together, but always find the deeper meaning behind the laughter. Listen as they bring honesty and humor to the seemingly never-ending lessons they learn from cancer, BMT, GVHD and so many complications.

Michael and Mom talk cancer (specifically hepato splenic t-cell lymphoma) and chronic graft versus host disease, the two rare diseases that Michael lives with. Our dear friends at Lumanity asked us to answer a few questions and share our two perspectives, unique experiences, living with a rare disease diagnosis, on this special day, Rare Disease Day, February 29th, 2024. Join Michael and Mom for a spirited, real conversation on the challenges and the surprising benefits, as well.

Join Michael and ashlee (mom), as they talk to Weston Lord. Weston has survived 2 bone marrow transplants, 4 "tussles" with cancer, and many complications, including GVHD, like Michael. In Weston's own words: "Over the years, I have come to terms with the fact that the struggle is good. Overcoming adversity, triumphing over what we thought was impossible leads to the greatest growth in personal development." Listen to this honest conversation that will inspire you to be better, to live for the day, to appreciate the wind in your face and the warm apple pie with your loved one.

Join Michael and mom (Ashlee) as they laugh, share some of the more humorous moments post knee replacement surgery, plus, the continued love and gratitude. As always, they somehow find the joy in the most challenging of moments. The beauty in the pain... even while delaing with physical pain and the painful reality of losing part of Michael's health insurance. Listen, smile, be moved, and hopefully gain a little perspective as Michael and mom talk knee surgery...

Join Michael and mama Ashlee as they talk PTSD, those cancer fighting words, toxic positivity, and as usual, LOVE! By the way, this episode was recorded BEFORE Michael underwent a complicated knee surgery, but the lessons, the perspective, are universal, timeless.... for now.......

Join Michael and Mom as they talk to THE Dr. Erica Harris! Survivor, BMT recipient, double lung transplant recipient. She is a motivational speaker, a mindset health expert (Rise, Survive and Thrive Alive), Tex x speaker, podcast host, retired chiropractor and MOM of two boys! She is smart, funny, down to earth, wise beyond her years, and is open and willing to share all she has learned with US. somehow, surviving FAR beyond all odds.... We were so grateful to connect with her on so many levels.... PLEASE check out her website: https://www.risetoday.com It was an honor and JOY to speak with this human who is a true light in this world....

Jeff Boothman shares his cancer story with Michael and ashlee, and how he turned his struggle into a self-help "manual" in the form of his new book: HOW TO BE A CANCER PATIENT. No one teaches you how to deal with this life changing diagnosis, but Jeff shares his wisdom and knowledge, having been through all the struggles himself. He is full of amazing information all laid out in an often witty, concise way. Find Jeff's book on Amazon and his website: https://jeffboothman.com/

Join Michael and Mom as they chit chat for a few moments, reflecting on life of late..... Michael talking about letting his illness guide him, NOT control him. Ashlee discussing how love is NOT their broken record, but a message that needs to be heard over and over again.... It is a SHORT chat, but a fun one. We hope you enjoy the two as they laugh and cry together.

Join Michael and Mom as they talk to Brian Burkhardt from the Oliver Patch Project. Brian shares the story of how his son's cancer diagnosis brought his family, his community, and the pediatric cancer world together through milestones that are celebrated with colorful, artistic patches. The patches symbolize strength, while keeping love and positivity in the forefront. An exciting new development, the official Patch Day, June 24th. You can find more about the Oliver Patch Project on their website: https://www.oliverpatchproject.org/ You can also find them on Facebook and instagram. Michael, ashlee and Brian all bond over common themes of love and connection, even while facing cancer.

Join Michael and mom as they talk candidly to Rob Long, former football star at Syracuse, brain cancer survivor, literally beating every odd, and now Executive director of Uplifting Athletes. He turned his very dismal brain cancer diagnosis into a new path, to help others going through rare disease. Uplifting Athletes raises money and awareness to fund research for rare diseases, enhances student athlete life skills development and rare disease patient engagement. In Rob's words: "As a rare disease survivor I have the opportunity to help others as so many have helped me." Michael and ashlee loved every moment of this very special interview. Rob is an inspiration and we know you will be inspired by his words of wisdom and kindness, as he so humbly shares his story of his rare brain cancer and how he survived. Uplifting Athelestes: https://www.upliftingathletes.org/ instagram: https://www.instagram.com/roblong47/ Linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roblong47/ #cancersurvivor #cancer #braincancer #podcast #gratitude #upliftingathletes #cancerresearch

Join Michael and mom (ashlee) as they interview JJ Singleton, diagnosed with colorectal cancer at the young age of 27. He has been through relapse, he has been told his cancer is incurable, but somehow he is here, advocating, inspiring, beating every odd. He has a special passion for mental health, especially men's mental health. His southern accent is charming but do not let it fool you, he is deep and endearing, smart and so courageous. Michael and ashlee were touched to tears talking with this incredible, courageous, beautiful young man. He will touch your heart, too. Find him on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jj5145/ and his blog: https://livingwithterminalcancer.wordpress.com/

Join Michael and ashlee as they chat with special guest, Michael's girlfriend Suzane Lima, AKA Suzie Q! They talk casual, getting-to-know Suzie conversation, as well as going a little deeper, asking Suzie what it is like dating a 22 year old cancer survivor living with a chronic illness. Suzie is cute and fun and so open, as she shares a little of her heart with Michael, mom and YOU, the audience.

Join Michael and mom (ashlee) as they talk about taking their first trip since Michael was diagnosed with cancer in July of 2020. The duo talk about packing meds, COVID, taking a hotel bath, but most importantly, they share the beautiful experience they had attending Stupid Cancer's #cancercon2023 in Atlanta as guests AND Keynote speakers. From Atlanta they flew to NYC to film some PR for the cool new app Cancer Buddy, an app made to connect cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers. As always, Michael and ashlee are humbled to share their experiences with YOU. They hope you enjoy this little story-telling episode, sprinkled with nuggets of wisdom.

Join Michael and ashlee as they speak with Matthew Zachary, entertainer, speaker, provocateur, advocate, cancer rebel. Matthew was diagnosed with brain cancer as a college senior. He was only 21 years old. He wasn't sure he would make it to his 22nd birthday. That was 27 years ago.Matthew is one of todays' most respected, influential, and visionary voices in healthcare. He is the Founder of the award-winning nonprofit Stupid Cancer. Matthew started the young adult cancer movement, improving the lives of millions of cancer survivors in their teens, 20s, and 30s. He is also co-founder and chair of Offscrip Health, a documentary podcast studio where he hosts "Out of Patients with Matthew Zachary," a Top-10 Healthcare Podcast! WOW! Michael and ashlee were so incredibly honored to share this time with Matthew, one of their personal heroes and inspirations. We hope you love listening to their honest conversation as much as we loved speaking with Matthew! You can find and connect with Matthew via his website: https://www.matthewzachary.com/

Join Michael and ashlee (mom) as they speak with Marques Ogden, who had it all, lost it all, and is now sharing his message of inspiration with us. Marques is a former NFL player, who became a successful entrepreneur, but then hit rock bottom, lost his fortune, turned to alcohol and painkillers, found himself working as a custodian to survive, with only $400 to his name. Marques realized the analogy in his new job of cleaning offices, to cleaning up his life. He picked himself up, finding purpose in his pain. Such a similar message to Michael and Ashlee, who have found so much beauty in pain. Marques is now an inspirational keynote speaker, four-time best-selling author, business coach and consultant, host of Get Authentic with Marques Ogden and Founder of Ogden Ventures LLC. To learn more, visit www.marquesogden.com or connect with Marques through his BRAND NEW app: Marques Ogden. We hope you listen and enjoy these beautiful life lessons!   (Oh, and Michael's shout out! Check out Dr. Josephine Spence's book on Amazon about her cancer journey: Finding Hope and Healing in Houston!)

In this episode, Michael and mom (ashlee) have an honest, short conversation about the difference between "Bouncing Forward" and "Bouncing Back". The two have learned so much in the last 3 years, and somehow, the lessons just keep coming! They feel such a strong purpose to share their perspective with YOU. We hope you listen, feel the passion and growth, the perspective and L-O-V-E. Michael and mom are so grateful for you. (Plus, they have some cool new sound equipment thanks to Micah from These Fukken Feelings Podcast! THANK YOU MICAH!)

Join Michael and mom as they talk to Andy Shepperd who singlehandedly started his beautiful foundation, Project Outrun (learn more HERE: https://projectoutrun.org/ ). This brilliant, artistic, generous human shares the "why" and the "how" he started his foundation for pediatric oncology patients to design their own, cool Nikes. It is empowering, creative, fun, healing. All the things we want for our pediatric survivors. Michael and mom laugh and get serious along with Andy and his son Griffin who joins in from time to time, on this extravagant episode! Andy is looking for 4 minutes with Phil Knight, hoping to take his foundation to the next level. Anyone out there with connections to Phil, reach out to Andy or Michael and mom!! Enjoy the spontaneous, heart felt conversation with these 4 as they discuss hard moments, and moments of true love. Leading with heart.... #imnotsickbutmyshoesare #4minuteswithPhil

Join Michael and mom, ashlee, in this enlightening interview with Kristin Connor, CEO of CURE Childhood Cancer. Kristin joined CURE in 2006 as the Chief Executive Officer, leaving her law practice after her own personal experience with her son's cancer diagnosis. Her son was fortunate and is doing beautifully to this day, but it changed the direction of Kristin's life. She could not turn away. Since joining CURE, they have raised over $77 million dollars, more than $38 invested in pediatric cancer research! She also helped to start Quiet Heroes, an annual luncheon to recognize mothers (ashlee can relate) who have given their lives to care for their children with cancer. The interview is full of valuable information and personal passion, as she shares her own story, her perspective, her knowledge with us all.

Join Michael and Mom and they sit together and chat about recent updates to Michael's treatment and how they deal best: LOVE. This episode is a simple conversation, a reflection on continued treatments, continued struggles, but also new lessons... the two discuss not chasing peace, not chasing love, not chasing joy, but BEING the peace, the love, the joy. The mom and son try to embody the lessons they share, even if it is not always easy.

Michael and mom, ashlee, talk to oncology physical therapist Suzette Smith. Suzette completed the first EVER oncology rehab residency at Beaumont Hospital and is currently working for Henry Ford hospital. She wrote a chapter on Prevention and Wellness for the textbook "Oncology Rehabilitation, a Guidebook for Clinicians". In this episode Suzette speaks about the benefits of PT, physical, mental, emotional for the cancer patient. Suzette discusses the benefits of movement, but also mindfulness, meditation, and yoga. Listen in to this interesting, enlightening conversation that can truly inspire us all to MOVE.

Michael and mom talk to cancer survivor and coach, Matt Ode who went from cancer to coma at age 24, when he was diagnosed with stage 3C testicular cancer. After chemo and 5 surgeries Matt almost died multiple times from his severe complications. Before his cancer diagnosis Matt was a healthy personal trainer, weighing in at 185lb. After 8 months of treatment he dwindled down to 110lbs. After so much hard work and deep internal discovery, Matt Ode is cancer free and lives a vibrant, enthusiastic, energetic life, helping individuals transform their mind, body and spirt, as a transformation coach. He is truly a MIRACLE story and this interview is fun and fascinating, full of so many pieces of wisdom. Matt and Michael have so much in common. The 3 find a life-long bond in the space of less than an hour.Find Matt on his website: https://mattodespeaks.com/ and on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/takingbackyourlifeaftercancer

Michael and mom talk to cancer survivor Chuck Keels about his miraculous story of healing from his stage 4 prostate cancer diagnosis. After being placed in hospice and sent home to die peacefully, Chuck ended up back to the hospital with a broken back, felt the presence of God, and survived. He and his wife Hannah, also a stage 4 cancer survivor, started a foundation to support other survivors, encouraging them to Get Up and Live! The foundation "Live Hope Cancer Foundation" was born, encouraging those touched by cancer to GET UP AND LIVE! Tragically, Hannah passed away in November of 2022, but her heart lives on through Chuck and the work they did together. More about Chuck and his foundation, advice, coaching, plus the 3 books that he has had published, can be found at https://www.getupandlive.org/

In this episode, Michael and his mom ashlee talk about new lessons.... living life in that in-between place, between cancer and health. Michael confesses to being both grateful for being alive, yet so frustrated by the complications he must live with, in cancer's wake. They both encourage you to take risks, to shed your armor, not to take life and your health for granted. Appreciate your family. Your friends. Your LIFE. Nothing is guaranteed. Join Michael and ashlee as they sit and talk, sharing the love they have for each other, and the gifts that cancer has given them, with you.

In this episode, Michael and his mom Ashlee speak with Francisco, another 21 year old cancer survivor who, like Michael, went through chemo and a Bone Marrow Transplant. However Francisco was diagnosed with AML (acute myeloid leukemia) at the young age of 12 and received his transplant at 13. Francisco's diagnosis was a long and painful process, physically and emotionally. In this very candid interview he shares how he is now physically healed, with no long term effects or complications, however mentally, it has been a huge challenge to "go back to the real world". He experienced a lot of anger throughout the last years, as many cancer survivors do. This episode is not so much about cancer, but more about dealing with the aftermath, coming back to the world, how to communicate and survive mentally and emotionally.

In this episode, Michael and his mom sit and chit chat around their dining room table. A very impromptu episode, they laugh and joke about some of their hospital adventures, acknowledging that humor has been a key to getting through the rough moments. Not only humor, but connecting to others. These two are blessed to have each other, but they want you to know that you are not alone. Reaching out for help is courageous. These two know they have needed support and love. Through all the struggles, this is how they have learned the most, gained the most depth and strength. Join Michael and his mom and they talk through their cancer story that is relatable to all of us.

In this episode, Michael and his mom talk about surviving, while 2 young adult patients, friends, bonded by cancer and treatment, passed away. They talk about how hard it is to understand the reason, the why, but find peace in moving forward. Acceptance is the lesson of the moment. They have discovered there is no winning or losing, just finding purpose and meaning in every day. Even staying positive is no guarantee of surviving.... Join Michael and his mom Ashlee as they talk through new realizations and heart breaking lessons.

In this episode, Michael and his mom have a relaxed conversation, uncut and unedited, on the topic of body image. Michael's body has been through so much in the last 2 years, so many changes, from a 165lb athletic surfer to 130lb post transplant recipient, to 170 pounds of bloating and weight gain from prednisone to treat his Graft Versus Host Disease, and now to 120 pounds, trying to recover from near fatal liver failure. Michael has been left with scars over his body, outside and inside, but as his mom points out, he is still the same Michael, no matter how he has looked. The scars only make him better. More Michael. More lovable. He has used working out, not to necessarily improve how he looks, but how he feels. Join Michael and his mom Ashlee as they talk about this relevant topic from perhaps a different perspective. LOVE yourself, is the greatest message yet.

In this episode, Michael and his mom talk about how coming home takes a little "rewiring of the brain". After months in the hospital, coming home is not as easy as they thought it would be. A chance meeting with a random stranger on the beach, led to a deep conversation about the patience needed to change from an invalid to a young man recovering at home. Flipping the switch is not immediate, and not simple. Patience, balance, two of the words that seem to come up over and over again. Join Michael and his mom Ashlee as they talk through another challenging, but hopefully relatable situation.