Patient from Hell

Alyssa Wachley shares her journey as a stage three breast cancer survivor and the founder of Warriors That Pray, a jewelry line that supports cancer warriors. She discusses the emotional and spiritual challenges faced during her diagnosis, the importance of community and prayer, and how her faith evolved through adversity. Alyssa emphasizes the significance of connection and support for those battling cancer, and shares inspiring stories of how her organization has made a difference in people's lives.Warriors That Pray website: https://www.warriorsthatpray.com/ Warriors That Pray Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/warriorsthatpray/About Our Guest:Alyssa Wakeley | Founder of Warriors That PrayAlyssa Wakeley, with a heart for serving others, founded Warriors That Pray on the belief that every person is uniquely created with a purpose to fulfill. As a wife, mother, and devoted dog-lover, she strives to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those around her, offering encouragement and hope to those facing difficult times.In 2020, at just 27 years old, Alyssa was diagnosed with breast cancer—a life-altering moment that could have defined her. Instead, she chose to walk through the journey with unwavering faith and a positive spirit. Refusing to let cancer steal her joy, she became a source of strength and inspiration to those around her, from family and friends to her medical team. Her resilience and deep-rooted faith carried her through the toughest moments, reminding her that she was never alone.Now cancer-free, Alyssa is living life to the fullest and using her experience to uplift others. Out of her journey, Warriors That Pray was born—a movement designed to encourage and support those navigating their own battles. Through prayer bracelets, she offers a tangible reminder that even in the valley, God is with you… and PRAYER CHANGES THINGS.Alyssa's mission is clear: to spread hope, faith, and love, reminding others that no matter the challenge, they are seen, valued, and never alone. Through WTP, she continues to make a lasting impact, trusting in God's plan and using her story to bring light to those in need.Takeaways:You're allowed to feel that way when diagnosed with cancer.Community support was crucial during Alyssa's treatment.Warriors That Pray was founded to give back to cancer warriors.Jewelry serves as a tangible reminder of support and encouragement.Prayer played a significant role in Alyssa's healing journey.Everyone's faith journey is unique and valid.It's important to advocate for yourself in medical settings.Asking for help is a strength, not a weakness.Connection is vital for those going through tough times.Alyssa's organization aims to bless others and foster community.Chapters00:00 Navigating Faith and Cancer Diagnosis03:04 The Birth of Warriors That Pray05:55 The Role of Prayer in Healing08:59 Personal Growth Through Adversity11:59 Creating Community and Connection15:03 Rapid Fire Insights and AdviceConnect with Us:Enjoyed this episode? Make sure to subscribe, rate, and review! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or Linkedin @MantaCares and visit our website at MantaCares.com for more episodes and updates. Disclaimer:All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only. This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.Tags: faith, cancer, prayer, community, support, healing, Warriors That Pray, personal growth, adversity, connection

Valerie David, also known as The Pink Hulk, is a three-time cancer survivor (non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, stage 2 breast cancer, and stage 4 metastatic breast cancer) who turned her journey of resilience into an award-winning one-woman show. Through humor, raw honesty, and advocacy, she inspires audiences worldwide—proving that even cancer won't stop her from taking center stage.Check out Valerie's show, The Pink Hulk here: https://pinkhulkplay.comKey Highlights:- Valerie trusted her inner voice when symptoms appeared, even when doctors initially dismissed them. If you are able to get second opinions, advocate for yourself, and listen to your gut, you'll find this to be useful in other parts of your own life.- Balancing intuition with fear over symptoms can be tricky, but Valerie advises: don't panic over nothing, don't choose to live in fear. Instead, stay proactive by communicating with your care team about any arising symptoms.About our guest:Valerie David is an actor, playwright, writer and editor. Her greatest accomplishment in life is being a three-time cancer survivor. She was diagnosed and treated for Stage III Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma in 1999, Stage II Breast Cancer in 2014 and 2015, and Stage IV Breast Cancer in 2018. As of April 2019, she has beaten cancer again! Valerie reactivated her superhero within, and exactly 5 months after receiving hormone treatment only in pill form–no surgery, no radiation, no chemotherapy, Valerie no longer has active disease. She has since kept up a full schedule of performances–nothing has stopped her. Valerie's inspirational solo show, The Pink Hulk, has been accepted into almost 50 different play festivals worldwide since its 2016 debut, won multiple awards and has been touring since its very first performance, impacting audiences with the show's universal message of hope and empowerment. She has performed in over 25 different cities and globally, including in England, Sweden, Iceland, and Finland. A graduate of the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, her credits include the Off-Broadway production of A Stoop on Orchard Street, Cookie in Rumors and Claudia Shear's Blown Sideways Through Life. Films: How I Became that Jewish Guy, which premiered at a November 2015 NYC Film Festival, and Bridges and Tunnels. Valerie volunteers as a motivational speaker at the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's Team in Training events and Make-A-Wish Foundation. As a marathon cyclist, she co-founded Cycle of Hope, which raises money for national and international cancer organizations through bike marathons. Her most recent biking event raised almost $5,000 for the American Cancer Society and the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.Key Moments:At 7 minutes 28 seconds “What is my choice? Is my choice going to live in fear every single day? Is it going to be well, we'll deal with it when it happens. So I think what I've learned from cancer is don't worry until there's something to worry about.”Disclaimer: All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only. This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Samira, a breast cancer survivor and CEO of Manta Cares, discusses the latest advancements in cancer treatment with Dr. Doug Blayney at the ASCO conference. They explore the significant impact of exercise on cancer treatment tolerance and survival, the de-escalation of chemotherapy, the introduction of new therapies like SERDs and antibody drug conjugates, and the role of circulating tumor DNA in monitoring cancer recurrence. The conversation emphasizes the importance of patient convenience and self-advocacy in cancer care.About Our Guest:Douglas W. Blayney, MD is a Professor of Medicine (Oncology), Emeritus, former Medical Director of Stanford Cancer Center, and specializes in the treatment of breast cancer. He has a special interest in the quality and value of cancer care. Dr. Blayney is a past president of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), a founder of the ASCO Quality Symposium, a co-author of the ASCO value framework descriptions, and instigated the ASCO clinical "big data" effort, which is now CancerLinQ. He received the inaugural Ellen Stovall Award for Leadership in Patient Centered Care from the National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship in 2016. He was previously a Professor of Internal Medicine and Medical Director of the Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Michigan, and prior to that practiced and led Wilshire Oncology Medical Group, Inc. a physician owned multidisciplinary oncology practice in southern California. He has expertise on clinical trial development, use of oncology drugs in clinical practice, reimbursement and marketing strategies and information technology use.Chapter Codes00:00 The Impact of Exercise on Cancer Treatment02:00 Interview at ASCO Starts06:00 Advancements in Cancer Treatment: De-escalation and AI11:52 Emerging Therapies: SERDs and Antibody Drug Conjugates18:11 Circulating Tumor DNA: A New Frontier in Monitoring24:01 Convenience in Cancer Care: A Patient-Centric ApproachTakeaways- Regular exercise can increase tolerance to cancer treatments.- Data shows exercise has tangible benefits on survival rates.- De-escalation of chemotherapy is a key focus in cancer treatment.- AI is being integrated into cancer treatment guidelines.- Patients can take proactive steps to improve their health.- Oral SIRDs are emerging as a more convenient treatment option.- Antibody drug conjugates target cancer cells with fewer side effects.- Circulating tumor DNA can help detect cancer recurrence earlier.- Convenience in treatment is becoming a priority for patients.- Competition among treatments may help reduce costs for patients.Tags & Keywords:cancer treatment, ASCO, exercise, AI, SIRDs, antibody drug conjugates, circulating tumor DNA, patient care, chemotherapy, cancer survival, health technologyConnect with Us:Enjoyed this episode? Make sure to subscribe, rate, and review! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or Linkedin @mantacares and visit our website at mantacares.com for more episodes and updates.Listen Elsewhere: Website: https://mantacares.com/pages/podcast?srsltid=AfmBOopEP5GJ-Wd2nL-HYAInrwerIVhyJw67salKT-r9Qb_gadBvbHie YouTube: https://youtu.be/UjsAtpbedA8 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7HwhjXHZU0ZWWVkXrCSV7V?si=d5e986f0885a4bbb Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cervical-cancer-and-hpv-what-you-need-to-know/id1622669098?i=1000710235401 Disclaimer:All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only. This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Dr. Barbara Moscicki discusses the critical role of HPV in women's health, particularly its association with various cancers, including cervical cancer. She explains the dual nature of HPV as both a commensal organism and a pathogen, emphasizing the importance of understanding its oncogenic potential. The conversation also covers the significance of screening methods, such as Pap smears, in detecting precancerous changes and the complexities surrounding the treatment of different cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) stages. This conversation delves into the complexities of cancer screening methods, particularly focusing on cervical and anal cancer. Dr. Barbara Moscicki discusses the importance of understanding various screening guidelines, the role of HPV vaccination in preventing cancers, and the need for clear communication between clinicians and patients regarding these topics. The discussion highlights the evolving nature of cancer screening practices and the importance of patient education in navigating these changes.About Our Guest:Dr. Moscicki is a Pediatrician, Board Certified in Adolescent Medicine. She is the current Division Chief of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine with clinical expertise in reproductive health care for menstrual irregularities, sexual health, and sexually transmitted diseases. Dr. Moscicki has expertise in HPV -related disease including diagnosis of cervical dysplasia and treatment. She also offers medical care for women with eating disorders.Resources & Links:This episode was supported by the Patient Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) and features the PCORI research study here: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33632649/ ‘Effect of 2 Interventions on Cervical Cancer Screening Guideline Adherence'Chapter Codes00:00 Introduction to HPV and Women's Health03:00 Understanding HPV's Role in Cancer06:01 The Dual Nature of HPV: Commensal vs Pathogenic08:57 Oncogenes and Their Impact on Cellular Regulation12:09 The Intersection of HPV and Screening Methods14:58 Cervical Cancer Screening and Pap Smears20:30 Understanding Cancer Screening Methods23:17 Guidelines for Cervical and Anal Cancer Screening31:02 The Importance of HPV Vaccination39:35 Key Messages for Clinicians and PatientsTakeaways- Dr. Moscicki specializes in adolescent and young adult medicine.- HPV is linked to multiple cancers beyond cervical cancer.- The understanding of HPV's role in cancer has evolved significantly.- E6 and E7 proteins from HPV disrupt normal cell regulation.- CIN3 is considered a true pre-cancer that requires treatment.- Liquid cytology has improved the accuracy of Pap smears.- CIN1 is often self-resolving and does not require treatment.- CIN2 presents a diagnostic dilemma due to variability in interpretation.- Women have options regarding the management of CIN2 lesions.Connect with Us:Enjoyed this episode? Make sure to subscribe, rate, and review! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or Linkedin @mantacares and visit our website at mantacares.com for more episodes and updates.Listen Elsewhere: Website: https://mantacares.com/pages/podcast?srsltid=AfmBOopEP5GJ-Wd2nL-HYAInrw YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mantacares Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3TR1lFLtf6em5YyKtlWy2L?si=6ma-9g_w Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/navigating-cervical-cancer-screening-surger Disclaimer:All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only. This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.This episode was supported by an award from the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute.

In this episode of The Patient From Hell, host Samira Daswani speaks with oncology pharmacist Megan Hartranft about the critical role of oncology pharmacists in cancer care. They discuss the unique responsibilities of oncology pharmacists, the importance of patient education, and the growing field of oral chemotherapy. Megan shares insights on medication adherence, the use of mobile health technologies, and the significance of symptom management in improving patient outcomes. The conversation highlights the need for better integration within healthcare systems and offers practical tips for patients navigating their treatment journey.About Our Guest:Dr. Megan Hartranft is a Clinical Lead with the Clinical and Digital Solutions team, advising on precision oncology products.Prior to joining Labcorp, Dr. Hartranft was a Field Medical Scientific Associate Director at Sanofi, in charge of training for the hematology-oncology medical science liaison team. Earlier as a practicing clinician, she established an oral chemotherapy education program and participated in interprofessional clinics at Rush University Cancer Center. She has also spent time in academia as the oncology faculty member at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Health Sciences, where she maintains an adjunct appointment. Dr. Hartranft is active in several professional organizations, including her roles on the Hematology Oncology Pharmacy Association's Public Policy & Advocacy Committee as well as the American Society of Health System Pharmacy Section of Pharmacy Informatics and Technology Clinical Decision Support and Analytics Advisory Group.BS in Biochemistry/Molecular Biology and BA in Classical Studies - Michigan State University Doctor of Pharmacy - University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill PGY1 Pharmacy Residency - University of Michigan PGY2 Oncology Specialty Residency - University of Georgia/Augusta University Health SystemResources & Links:This episode was supported by the Patient Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) and features the PCORI research study here: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30964... ‘Integrating Advance Care Planning Videos into Surgical Oncologic Care: A Randomized Clinical Trial'00:00 Introduction to Oncology Pharmacy02:49 The Role of Oncology Pharmacists in Patient Care06:03 Patient Interaction and Education09:09 Exploring Oral Chemotherapy11:45 Adherence to Oral Anti-Cancer Medications15:01 Mobile Health Technologies in Oncology17:58 Symptom Management and Patient Support21:11 The Future of Oncology Pharmacy24:09 Final Thoughts and Tips for PatientsConnect with Us:Enjoyed this episode? Make sure to subscribe, rate, and review! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or Linkedin @mantacares and visit our website at mantacares.com for more episodes and updates.Listen Elsewhere: Website: https://mantacares.com/pages/podcast?... YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mantacares Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3TR1... Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Disclaimer:All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only. This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.This episode was supported by an award from the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute.

In this episode of the Manta Cares's Patient from Hell Podcast Club, host Mike Lynn engages with Sheila Goodrow, a metastatic breast cancer advocate, to discuss the importance of mental health resources for cancer patients. They explore Sheila's personal journey with cancer, the challenges of accessing mental health care, and the role of advocacy in healing. The conversation emphasizes the need for comprehensive support systems for patients and caregivers alike, highlighting the significance of mental wellness in the cancer journey.This Podcast Club accompanies Patient from Hell podcast Episode 84: Managing Insomnia and Mental Health in Cancer Care with Dr. Cara Bohon.00:00 Introduction to Patient Advocacy and Podcast Goals02:00 Sheila's Journey with Metastatic Breast Cancer03:52 Mental Health Challenges in Cancer Care09:46 Exploring Therapy and Mental Health Resources14:03 Accessibility of Mental Health Services for Patients17:58 The Role of Advocacy in Personal Healing19:59 Conclusion and Final Thoughts on WellnessConnect with Us:Enjoyed this episode? Make sure to subscribe, rate, and review! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or Linkedin @mantacares and visit our website at mantacares.com for more episodes and updates.Disclaimer:All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only. This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.This episode was supported by an award from the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute.

In this episode of the Manta Cares Patient from Hell Podcast Club, host Mike Lynn engages with Brenda Elveen, a breast cancer survivor and patient advocate. They discuss the challenges faced by cancer patients, including navigating the healthcare system, the impact of insurance on treatment options, and the importance of community support. Brenda shares her personal journey through cancer treatment and emphasizes the need for patient empowerment and effective communication with loved ones. The conversation highlights the transformative power of advocacy and the positive outcomes that can arise from difficult experiences.This Podcast Club accompanies Patient from Hell podcast Episode 91 "Personalized Oncology: General Surgeon Discusses Modern Breast Cancer Treatment" with Dr. Anitha Srinivasian.00:00 Introduction to Patient Advocacy and Personal Stories02:52 Navigating the Cancer Diagnosis Journey05:51 The Impact of Insurance on Treatment Decisions09:14 Understanding Treatment Options and Patient Empowerment11:57 The Role of Community and Support in Cancer Care15:02 The Importance of Communication with Loved Ones18:01 Finding Purpose in Advocacy and Personal GrowthConnect with Us:Enjoyed this episode? Make sure to subscribe, rate, and review! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or Linkedin @mantacares and visit our website at mantacares.com for more episodes and updates.Disclaimer:All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only. This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.This episode was supported by an award from the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute.

In our Patient from Hell Podcast Club episode, Ashley Dedman, vice president of mission delivery at Living Beyond Breast Cancer. They discuss the importance of patient advocacy, particularly in the context of breast cancer and DCIS (ductal carcinoma in situ). Ashley shares her personal journey with cancer as a caregiver and advocate, emphasizing the need for timely information and emotional support for patients and their families. The conversation highlights the evolving landscape of cancer treatment, the significance of understanding individual experiences, and the critical role of mental health in navigating cancer journeys.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Patient Advocacy and Podcast Goals03:03 Understanding DCIS: A Deep Dive into Breast Cancer06:03 Personal Stories: The Impact of Cancer on Families12:06 The Role of Advocacy in Cancer Care17:51 Navigating Treatment Decisions and Patient Empowerment24:06 Mental Health and Support in Cancer JourneysConnect with Us:Enjoyed this episode? Make sure to subscribe, rate, and review! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or Linkedin @mantacares and visit our website at mantacares.com for more episodes and updates.Listen Elsewhere: Website: https://mantacares.com/pages/podcast?srsltid=AfmBOopEP5GJ-Wd2nL-HYAInrwerIVhyJw67salKT-r9Qb_gadBvbHie YouTube: https://youtu.be/2SxvTqJht34?si=2U_98RfJJeWkTaT3 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3TR1lFLtf6em5YyKtlWy2L?si=6ma-9g_wTIWTCLmHiHF_Aw Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/navigating-cervical-cancer-screening-surgery-and/id1622669098?i=1000706666920 Disclaimer:All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only. This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.This episode was supported by an award from the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute.

Dr. Anita Srinivasan, a surgical oncologist, discusses her journey in oncology, the challenges faced in safety net hospitals, and the importance of patient-centered care in surgical oncology. The discussion covers the pain comparison between mammograms and cosmetic treatments, the impact of fear on surgical choices, and the significance of advanced care planning and patient education in making informed decisions about breast cancer treatment.About Our Guest:Surgeon, Health Executive, Healthcare Operational Excellence and Profitability Leader | 20+ years as a surgeon, health executive, thought leader, innovator, and advocate for health equity and accessResources & Links:This episode was supported by the Patient Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) and features the PCORI research study here: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30964385/ ‘Integrating Advance Care Planning Videos into Surgical Oncologic Care: A Randomized Clinical Trial'Chapter Codes00:00 The Pain of Mammograms vs. Cosmetic Treatments02:55 Dr. Anita Srinivasan's Journey in Oncology05:51 Understanding Safety Net Hospitals09:08 Challenges in Treating Advanced Breast Cancer12:02 Surgical Oncology: Approaches and Techniques15:08 The Importance of Patient-Centered Care17:56 Advanced Care Planning in Surgical Oncology21:07 The Role of Patient Education in Decision Making24:01 The Impact of Fear on Surgical Choices26:53 Future Directions in Surgical OncologyConnect with Us:Enjoyed this episode? Make sure to subscribe, rate, and review! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or Linkedin @mantacares and visit our website at mantacares.com for more episodes and updates.Listen Elsewhere: Website: https://mantacares.com/pages/podcast?srsltid=AfmBOopEP5GJ-Wd2nL-HYAInrwerIVhyJw67salKT-r9Qb_gadBvbHie YouTube: https://youtu.be/2SxvTqJht34?si=2U_98RfJJeWkTaT3 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3TR1lFLtf6em5YyKtlWy2L?si=6ma-9g_wTIWTCLmHiHF_Aw Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/navigating-cervical-cancer-screening-surgery-and/id1622669098?i=1000706666920 Disclaimer:All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only. This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.This episode was supported by an award from the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute. Tags & Keywords:oncology, breast cancer, surgical oncology, patient care, mammograms, safety net hospitals, advanced care planning, patient education, mastectomy, lumpectomy

Dr. Shannon McLaughlin-David discusses the complexities of cervical cancer, HPV, and the role of gynecologic oncology. The dialogue explores the emotional and clinical challenges faced by both patients and clinicians, emphasizing the importance of effective communication and empathy in patient care. The discussion also highlights the various types of gynecologic cancers, surgical interventions, and the difficult decisions patients must make regarding their treatment options. This conversation delves into the complexities of patient autonomy, the emotional challenges faced by oncologists, and the systemic incentives within healthcare that can impact patient care. The discussion also covers the evolution of cervical cancer screening guidelines, the role of HPV in cervical cancer, and the importance of patient advocacy and education regarding vaccination.Resources & Links:This episode was supported by the Patient Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) and features the PCORI research study here: https://www.google.com/url?q=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33632649/&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1746483503903350&usg=AOvVaw0SNo_jk-rzoVp85P5E3s6F ‘Effect of 2 Interventions on Cervical Cancer Screening Guideline Adherence'Chapter Codes00:00 Introduction to Cervical Cancer and HPV02:49 The Journey to Gynecologic Oncology05:57 Understanding Gynecologic Cancers09:05 Surgical Interventions in Gynecologic Oncology11:59 The Complexity of Patient Decisions15:07 Patient-Clinician Communication Challenges17:45 The Role of Empathy in Oncology21:05 Navigating Hormonal Treatments and Patient Reactions27:30 Navigating Patient Autonomy and Medical Ethics29:47 The Emotional Toll of Oncology33:00 Understanding the Healthcare System's Incentives35:58 The Role of Patient Advocacy39:05 The Evolution of Cervical Cancer Screening Guidelines51:46 HPV and Its Impact on Cervical Cancer54:48 Current Screening Protocols and HPV VaccinationConnect with Us:Enjoyed this episode? Make sure to subscribe, rate, and review! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or Linkedin @mantacares and visit our website at mantacares.com for more episodes and updates.Listen Elsewhere: Website: https://mantacares.com/pages/podcast?srsltid=AfmBOopEP5GJ-Wd2nL-HYAInrwerIVhyJw67salKT-r9Qb_gadBvbHie YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mantacares/videosSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0rSG16JUXGnRmOPfpJSplS?si=ayogPMUMT4eHJclXn6_5xA Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-microbiomes-impact-on-colorectal-cancer/id1622669098?i=1000705538270 Tags & Keywords:cervical cancer, HPV, gynecologic oncology, patient communication, surgical interventions, women's health, cancer treatment, patient empathy, decision making, hormonal therapy, patient autonomy, medical ethics, oncology, healthcare system, patient advocacy, cervical cancer, HPV, screening guidelines, emotional toll, healthcare incentives#Storytelling #Identity #Representation #Authenticity #Podcast #Culture #CancerAwareness #MedicalPodcast #CancerSurvivor #Oncology #Healthcare #CancerSupport #PatientStories #CancerResearch #HealthPodcast #CancerCommunity #SurvivorStories #MentalHealth #Wellness #HealthcareInnovationDisclaimer:All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only. This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.This episode was supported by an award from the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute.

In this episode of The Patient From Hell, host Samira Daswani speaks with Dr. Sara Char about her journey into oncology, the evolution of cancer biology, and the significant role of the microbiome in colon cancer. They discuss the complexities of cancer survivorship, the effectiveness of different methods of delivering survivorship care plans, and the importance of colonoscopy in monitoring colorectal cancer. The conversation also delves into the impact of diet on cancer risk, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive understanding of dietary patterns rather than focusing solely on individual foods. In this conversation, Dr. Sara Char discusses various aspects of survivorship care for colorectal cancer patients, focusing on dietary recommendations, exercise, and the emotional challenges faced during the transition from active treatment to survivorship. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of balancing nutrition, understanding the role of GLP-1 agonists, and the need for a supportive care team. Additionally, the conversation highlights the unique mental health needs of survivors and the significance of providing patients with a roadmap for their cancer journey.About Our Guest:Dr. Sara Char is a hematology and oncology fellow at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. She specializes in the care of patients with gastrointestinal cancers with a specific interest in young-onset colorectal cancer. Her research explores the molecular underpinnings of diet and lifestyle factors implicated in colorectal cancer development and progression. Dr. Char received her M.D. from Tufts University School of Medicine and completed her residency training in internal medicine at Massachusetts General Hospital, where she also served as chief resident. Outside of work, she is a self-identified foodie and devoted dog-mom. Resources & Links:This episode was supported by the Patient Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) and features the PCORI research study here: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34302474/ - ‘Simplifying Survivorship Care Planning: A Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing 3 Care Plan Delivery Approaches'Chapter Codes00:00 Exploring the Microbiome and Colon Cancer05:59 The Transition to Survivorship Care11:57 Understanding Adherence in Survivorship Plans17:49 The Role of Colonoscopy in Survivorship24:06 Dietary Patterns and Cancer Risk25:04 Inflammatory Diet and Health Outcomes28:11 Dietary Recommendations for Cancer Survivors30:34 Exercise and Body Composition in Cancer Care31:59 Managing GI Issues with GLP-1 Agonists34:43 Navigating Multidisciplinary Care35:50 The Transition from Active Treatment to Survivorship38:08 Mental Health Challenges Post-Treatment41:41 The Need for Psycho-Oncology Support46:47 The Importance of Patient Education and ResourcesConnect with Us:Enjoyed this episode? Make sure to subscribe, rate, and review! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or Linkedin @mantacares and visit our website at mantacares.com for more episodes and updates.Disclaimer:All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only. This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.This episode was supported by an award from the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute.

In this episode, Dr. Tejas Jayakrishnan discusses the rising incidence of young onset colorectal cancer (CRC) and the potential environmental factors contributing to this trend. The conversation delves into the importance of screening protocols, the challenges faced in early detection, and the role of education in increasing awareness and understanding of cancer risks. Dr. Jayakrishnan emphasizes the need for tailored approaches in patient care, particularly for younger patients, and highlights ongoing research efforts aimed at improving outcomes in this demographic.About Our Guest:Dr. Thejus Jayakrishnan is a gastrointestinal medical oncologist at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Brigham and Women's Hospital, and an Instructor in Medicine at Harvard Medical School. Originally from India, he completed his medical training in New Delhi and continued his journey through residency in Pittsburgh and oncology fellowship at Cleveland Clinic.Dr. Jayakrishnan's research explores why some people develop cancers like colorectal cancers at a younger age. He studies how metabolism, gut bacteria, and genetics contribute to these patterns, with the goal of developing better tools for screening and treatment.In the clinic, he treats patients with all types of gastrointestinal cancers and works closely with Dana-Farber's Young-Onset Colorectal Cancer Center. His focus is on translating scientific discoveries into meaningful improvements in care through clinical trials. Outside of work, he's an avid cyclist, outdoor enthusiast, and lover of books and movies.Resources & Links:This episode was supported by the Patient Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) and features the PCORI research study here: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30578103/ - ‘Impact of including quantitative information in a decision aid for colorectal cancer screening: A randomized controlled trial'Chapter Codes:00:00 - Understanding Young Onset Colorectal Cancer10:03 - Screening Protocols and Challenges19:50 - The Role of Education in Cancer Awareness30:04 - Future Directions in Colorectal Cancer ResearchConnect with Us:Enjoyed this episode? Make sure to subscribe, rate, and review! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or Linkedin @MantaCares and visit our website at MantaCares.com for more episodes and updates.Disclaimer:All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only. This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.This episode was supported by an award from the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute. 

Join us as we welcome Dr. Fauzia Riaz, Samira's oncologist, who believes in treating the whole person—not just the cancer. In this episode, we explore survivorship care: What does it truly mean? What insights does a thousand-person study reveal about different cancer survivorship care models? How can oncologists optimize treatment plans to improve quality of life for survivors? And what gaps must care providers address to ensure lasting, meaningful impact? This episode features the following PCORI study: Quality of life among cancer survivors by model of cancer survivorship care by Holly Mead.Your Cancer GPS is here! Step-by-step breast cancer maps based on what others have gone through and what oncologists recommend: https://mantacares.com/pages/new-see-how-it-works Sound Bites"You're helping me live and thank you for saving my life.""It's important to look at the emotional and psychological impact.""Survivorship is recognizing that cancer care extends beyond treatment.""Quality of life is influenced by emotional and psychological factors.""Survivorship care should be integrated from the beginning.""We need to think about how we're delivering cancer care.""Treatment optimization is going to be so important."Chapters00:00 The Journey of Cancer Care09:59 Understanding Survivorship19:50 The Impact of Treatment Models30:08 Research and Future Directions in OncologyKey Highlights:- Being attentive as a physician involves more than just careful monitoring during each step of treatment; it also requires providing support and compassion to the whole person you're treating.- The goal of survivorship is more than just surviving; it is to thrive and lead a high-quality life moving forward. There are two main survivorship care models from the study we reviewed, post-survivorship treatment and oncology-embedded survivorship. Each survivorship care model has their role.

In this episode of The Patient From Hell, host Samira Daswani speaks with oncology nurse Joshua Carter about his path into cancer care, shaped by personal experiences with family illness. They explore the differences between palliative and hospice care, the complexities of pain management, and the vital role nurses play as advocates. Josh also discusses misconceptions around pain medication, the promise and challenges of e-health tools, and the often-invisible workflows nurses navigate daily. He shares practical advice for patients, caregivers, and fellow clinicians, emphasizing the importance of early palliative care and being a bold advocate within the healthcare system.About Our GuestJosh Carter is an Oncology Nurse at Stanford Women's Cancer Center. His entire 17-year nursing career has been in oncology, with inpatient, industry, and outpatient experiences in Cleveland, Chicago, San Diego, and San Francisco. Josh holds undergraduate degrees from Kent State University and Ohio University and is currently on track to complete his Master's at the University of Michigan School of Nursing this Fall. He is a certified Oncology and Breast Care Nurse. His interests include Nursing Innovation, Digital Health, Patient Advocacy, Patient Education, Patient-Centered Design, Healthcare Improvement, Quality, and Implementation Science. With his interests in Healthcare Quality, Josh is currently a Site Assessor for the Michigan Oncology Quality Consortium. Josh has spoken at the National Oncology Nursing Society Congress and Authored Chapters of Oncology Nursing Society Text Books. Josh has been involved with research for caregivers of Cancer patients and has helped in the launch of newly approved cancer treatments. Josh has experience working on a cancer care delivery team at ASCO and has been awarded the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses. Resources & Links:This episode was supported by the Patient Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) and features the PCORI study “A Stepped-Wedge Randomized Controlled Trial: Effects of eHealth Interventions for Pain Control Among Adults With Cancer in Hospice”Sections00:00 - Journey into Oncology Nursing03:22 - Understanding Palliative vs. Hospice Care07:04 - Pain Management in Cancer Care10:23 - Pain Management Strategies and Misconceptions20:32 - E-Health Interventions in Pain Management23:19 - The Complex Workflow of Oncology Nursing27:48 - Quick Tips for Patients and CaregiversConnect with Us:Enjoyed this episode? Make sure to subscribe, rate, and review! Follow us on instagram, facebook, or linkedin @mantacares and visit our website at mantacares.com for more episodes and updates.Listen Across Platform:Website: https://mantacares.com/pages/podcast?srsltid=AfmBOopEP5GJ-Wd2nL-HYAInrwerIVhyJw67salKT-r9Qb_gadBvbHie YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mantacares Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/show/6gM1GxDBUgXrHwlO0Zvnzs?si=9edb8680461d4eaa Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/patient-from-hell/id1622669098 Disclaimer:All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only. This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.This episode was supported by an award from the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute.

Episode Summary:In this episode of The Patient from Hell, we sit down with Samira and Dr. Samantha, two storytellers who delve into the power of personal narratives, cultural identity, and representation. They share their experiences navigating different spaces, finding their voices, and embracing authenticity. Whether you're interested in storytelling, personal growth, or the intersections of culture and identity, this episode offers deep insights and inspiration.About Our Guest:Dr. Samantha Siegel is an onco-pcp and survivorship physician at Kaiser Permanente. She has survived relapsed/refractory Hodgkin Lymphoma, including an autologous bone marrow transplant in June 2022. This has made her passionate about integrative oncology, AYA survivorship, longterm toxicities, returning to work after cancer and more. Dr. Siegel is the cofounder of PCP-ONC CARES program, a longitudinal cancer survivorship care model beginning at diagnosis and she serves as the current director of Cancer Survivorship for Kaiser San Francisco. She is the host of AIM at Melanoma's supportive cancer care podcast, “Beyond the Clinic.” Dr. Siegel is focused on elevating cancer survivorship to a distinct board certification status. She lives in Davis with her husband, three kids and energetic dog. They enjoy outdoor activities and plant-based living.Key Highlights:[00:10:30] The Power of Storytelling in Identity: Sam and Samira discuss how personal experiences shape the stories we tell and the impact storytelling has on self-identity and cultural understanding.[00:22:45] Challenges in Representation: They share their experiences with representation in the media and the barriers they've faced in telling authentic stories.[00:35:00] Embracing Authenticity in Creative Work: A conversation about the importance of staying true to oneself and how authenticity can lead to more meaningful storytelling and connection.Key Moments:[00:02:15] - Introduction to Sam and Samira[00:10:30] - How personal experiences shape storytelling[00:22:45] - Overcoming challenges in representation[00:35:00] - The impact of authenticity in creative work[00:48:20] - Closing thoughts and takeawaysConnect with Us: Enjoyed this episode? Make sure to subscribe, rate, and review! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or Linkedin @mantacares and visit our website at mantacares.com for more episodes and updates.Resources & Links:This episode was supported by the Patient Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) and features the PCORI ⁠study⁠ “Effects of a Communication Intervention Randomized Controlled Trial to Enable Goals-of-Care Discussions” by Nina BickellDisclaimer:All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only. This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.This episode was supported by an award from the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute.

In this episode of The Patient From Hell, host Samira Daswani sits down with Dr. Cara Bohon, a clinical psychologist and researcher, to explore the unique mental health challenges faced by cancer patients and survivors. They discuss the role of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) in cancer care, the complexities of treating cancer-related insomnia, and the shortage of mental health professionals trained in oncology.Dr. Bohon and Samira also review a PCORI-funded study led by Dr. Jun J. Mao, comparing the effectiveness of CBT-I (cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia) versus acupuncture for cancer-related insomnia. Dr. Bohon breaks down step-by-step sleep strategies for cancer patients, offering practical tools to improve sleep, emotional well-being, and cancer-related anxiety—even for those without access to therapy.This episode was supported by the Patient Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) and features this PCORI study by Jun J Mao, MD.Check out the free mental health resources mentioned in this episode from Veterans of America here.--Your Cancer GPS is here! Step-by-step breast cancer maps based on what others have gone through and what oncologists recommend.Key Highlights:Insomnia is a major issue for cancer patients and survivors alike – beyond just trouble sleeping, it exacerbates pain, fatigue, cognitive impairment, and emotional distress, making cancer treatment even more challenging.  The clinical trial covered in this episode found that cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) led to better sleep improvements compared to acupuncture, with lasting effects even after treatment ended. While acupuncture may not be as effective as CBT-I for sleep, it showed short-term benefits for managing cancer-related pain, which can still be valuable for your mental health as wellThe problem with therapy today is not just accessibility, but also the fact that many therapists aren't trained in psycho-oncology, making it difficult for cancer patients to find mental health support tailored to their unique challenges.  Techniques from CBT-I, such as sleep restriction, stimulus control, cognitive restructuring, and relaxation exercises, can significantly improve sleep quality—even for those who can't afford professional therapy.About our guest: Dr. Cara Bohon is a clinical psychologist and researcher from Stanford University with experience scaling delivery of evidence-based mental health treatments to meet the huge needs of patients across the United States. She led clinical programs and research at Equip Health, which addressed the demand for effective eating disorder treatment by providing training and virtual delivery of evidence-based eating disorder treatment across the country and is passionate about expanding her work in oncology in the future.Disclaimer: All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only. This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.This episode was supported by an award from the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute.

Nine years with no evidence of disease—yet Megan-Claire Chase's cancer journey isn't over. As she once fought cancer alongside her mother, she now faces something even harder: losing her. In this episode, Megan-Claire shares a deeply vulnerable side—a daughter losing her mother. Facing your own mortality is one thing, but facing the mortality of your loved ones—friends, family, fellow cancer patients, and survivors—and the hole they leave behind is something entirely different. Key Highlights: Witnessing her mother's cancer progression brings anticipatory grief, yet despite that grief, Megan strives to learn as much about her mother as possible, including fond memories from her childhood. Despite the anticipatory grief, Megan and her mother engage in a bonding exercise using question cards, and she records their conversations. One of the most meaningful things she learned was that her mother reflects on her life with joy—ultimately, the greatest goal is to leave this world happy. Facing your own mortality can unearth many emotions: the need to be confident and not tolerate disrespect, the desire to live life on your own terms and to the fullest, yet also a deep sense of loneliness and isolation. About our guest: Check out the first episode Megan-Claire Chase appeared in here.  Megan-Claire Chase, also known as Warrior Megsie, is the Breast Cancer Program Director and host of the Our BC Life podcast at SHARE Cancer Support. As an invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC) breast cancer survivor and passionate patient advocate based in Atlanta, GA, Megan-Claire is a dedicated champion for the needs of breast cancer patients, particularly in addressing the disparities faced by minoritized communities and those in the adolescent and young adult (AYA) communities. In addition to her pivotal role at SHARE, she serves on Bayer Oncology's Digital Patient Council, is a patient advocate for the Oncology Data Advisor Editorial Board, and recently joined the Worth the Wait Charity advisory board. She also contributes as a writer and advisory board member for Patient Power, amplifying the voices of breast cancer patients. Megan-Claire's advocacy efforts include participating as a panelist on Leveraging Technology to Support Patient-Centered Multidisciplinary Oncologic Care at the 2024 ASCO Quality Care Symposium, co-authoring a podcast and infographic on genetic testing in metastatic breast cancer, collaborating with Pfizer on the Action Guide to Disrupt Inequitable Health Outcomes, and sharing her personal journey on PBS's Beyond Cancer through Stories from the Stage. Her work has been spotlighted in notable publications like The New York Times, People Magazine, Cancer Health, Cancer Today, and CURE Magazine. Beyond her cancer advocacy, Megan-Claire is a versatile voiceover actor, a dedicated social justice activist, and a proud cat mom to Phoebe. Disclaimer: All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only.  This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Looking for tools to help you take control of your cancer experience? Check out My Cancer GPS™, a step-by-step map that guides you through the entire cancer experience.

In this enlightening episode of the Patient From Hell, host Samira Daswani interviews Dr. Sara Tolaney, a leading oncologist specializing in breast cancer. They delve into the evolving landscape of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), exploring advancements in treatment, from targeted therapies to immunotherapy, and the challenges faced by patients in both early-stage and metastatic settings. With her characteristic warmth and expertise, Dr. Tolaney provides actionable insights for patients and caregivers, offering hope and understanding in navigating this complex diagnosis. Key Highlights: 1. A New Paradigm in Early-Stage TNBC Treatment: Dr. Tolaney explains how neoadjuvant chemotherapy combined with immunotherapy has revolutionized outcomes, achieving pathologic complete response rates above 60%. 2. Metastatic TNBC Advances: The discussion highlights the critical role of biomarker testing and the introduction of innovative therapies like antibody-drug conjugates, providing extended survival for many patients. 3. Empowering Patient Symptom Management: The episode underscores the importance of patient-reported outcomes and emerging tools like health apps to enhance self-management and real-time support for side effects. About our guest: Sara Tolaney, MD, MPH is the Chief of the Division of Breast Oncology at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, and is internationally recognized for her research and education leadership in breast cancer. She also serves as Associate Director of the Susan F. Smith Center for Women's Cancers and is a Senior Physician at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Associate Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School. Dr. Tolaney received her undergraduate degree from Princeton University and her medical degree from UC San Francisco. She subsequently completed her residency in Internal Medicine at Johns Hopkins University, and fellowships in hematology and medical oncology at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. She obtained her Masters in Public Health from Harvard School of Public Health. Her research focuses on the development of novel therapies in the treatment of breast cancer and developing more effective and less toxic treatment approaches. Her work has demonstrated that a relatively low risk regimen is beneficial in women with early stage node-negative HER2-positive cancers, and this works has been incorporated into national and international guidelines. She has developed several follow-up studies looking at novel approaches to early stage HER2-positive disease and has also played a significant role in development of cdk 4/6 inhibitors, antibody drug conjugates, and immunotherapy in breast cancer. She is the author of over 150 peer-reviewed publications with manuscripts included in many prestigious journals such as the New England Journal, Lancet Oncology, Journal of Clinical Oncology, and JAMA Oncology. Key Moments: At 8 minutes: "It used to be that if someone had a triple negative breast cancer, we would often take someone to surgery and then after surgery give them some chemotherapy to kill any stray cells that might've gotten into the bloodstream and integrate radiation as needed. But we've really changed our approach very dramatically over the last few years where we've learned that if someone has an early stage, stage two or three triple negative breast cancer, it is actually very critical that they not go to upfront surgery, but in fact get chemotherapy with immunotherapy prior to surgery." Disclaimer: All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only. This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Maimah Karmo shares her story with triple-negative breast cancer and how she founded the Tiger Lily Foundation. Maimah emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy, community support, and education in traversing healthcare challenges. She shares her experience of being dismissed by doctors due to her age and ethnicity, and how this motivated her to create an organization that empowers women of color facing similar struggles. Key Highlights: 1. Trust your gut, it could save your life. 2. Don't do it alone, community is what will help you do what you need to do even if you're afraid. 3. Be the best advocate you can be for yourself, this is your life and your body – you are worth  the fight. About our guest: Maimah Karmo is the Founder/CEO of the Tigerlily Foundation (Tigerlily) and an eighteen-year survivor of breast cancer. On February 28, 2006, at 4:45 p.m., Maimah was diagnosed with Stage 2 triple negative breast cancer. She had no family history and was 32-years old.  While undergoing her second round of chemotherapy, she made a promise to God that if she survived, she would create an organization to educate, empower, advocate for and support young women affected by breast cancer.  A first-generation immigrant from Liberia, who has experienced disparities first-hand, she is a leader in the women's health field, creating and implementing national health initiatives for women and girls, with a goal of eliminating disparities of age, stage and color.  Under Maimah' s leadership, Tigerlily Foundation has launched national and global health initiatives focused on ending disparities, through the #InclusionPledge, partnering with global stakeholders, with a call to action to recognize health disparities as a social justice issue; and working to end disparities for black women in our lifetime. She is a global thought leader, health advocate and philanthropist, committed to justice and equity for all. Maimah also works directly with women and their families to connect the patient with better care and knowledge. through events such as the Annual Young Women's Breast Health Day on the Hill and other philanthropic efforts and successful educational and support programs.  You can find Maimah on Twitter, on Instagram, and on Facebook.  Check out the Tigerlily Foundation here. Key Moments: At 6 minutes 25 seconds “I ended up finding the flower one day, the tiger lily… It's like a woman, beautiful, different layers to her, and also when people are going through treatment there's a sense of so much fear. You do lose things in a way. You may lose your petals: your hair, eyebrows, eyelashes, breasts, other parts of your body, male or female. The flower is a perennial, so in the fall, winter, the petals fall off but in the spring and summer, they blossom again.  I want people who are coming to Tigerlily to feel that sense of: I'm going through this time of dormancy and things are falling off, but that means I could grow and transform into something beautiful and amazing and just badass.You could find beauty, strength and be transformed throughout the cancer journey.” Disclaimer: All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only.  This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

In this enlightening episode of The Patient From Hell podcast, Dr. Doug Blayney and host Samira Daswani dive deep into the key insights from the 2024 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium (SABCS). They explore four critical areas of breast cancer care: CDK4/6 inhibitors, antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), de-escalation strategies for ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), and the emerging role of artificial intelligence in cancer diagnostics. Throughout the conversation, a central theme emerges: the increasing ability to personalize cancer treatment, considering individual patient characteristics, biological markers, treatment options, and personal goals for quality and quantity of life. Key Highlights: 1. Biomarkers are becoming increasingly sophisticated, allowing for more precise and personalized treatment approaches across different breast cancer subtypes. 2. Patient choice and individual considerations are paramount, with treatment decisions now focusing on balancing potential survival benefits against quality of life impacts. 3. Emerging technologies like antibody-drug conjugates and artificial intelligence are revolutionizing breast cancer care by offering more nuanced, targeted diagnostic and treatment options. About our guest: Dr. Doug Blayney is an oncology physician who specializes in breast cancer and the Chief Medical Officer of Manta Cares. His research focuses on quality improvement in cancer care systems, new drug development, and patient experience improvement. At the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), he was founding Editor-in-Chief of its flagship practice journal, and as President, started the ASCO Quality Symposium and began planning for ASCO's CancerLinq. He was a founding member of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) Growth Factor Guideline panel, and is a past member of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's Oncology Drugs Advisory Committee and the NCCN Board of Directors.  Key Moments: At 38 minutes: "There's a company now that has a gene expression panel that may predict, and it looks like it does predict, whether radiation treatment after standard treatment for DCIS is beneficial. So if this predicted biomarker of benefit for radiation pans out, and I think it probably will, that means that we can deescalate or personalize whether radiation treatment and its side effects are likely to be beneficial to that patient." At 45 minutes: "Quality of life, can that be answered by a nine question questionnaire? Well, maybe. If you can't get out of bed, your quality of life is because something hurts or if your arm doesn't work because they're so swollen, that's one extreme... What about 15 years playing that duet? What about three? It's those kind of subtleties that we need to take into account." At 49 minutes:"AI can interpret mammograms. The images from a mammogram 20 years ago, there were four, top, bottom, side, side, and maybe another oblique. And now there's 60 images from a mammogram. So that means that a radiologist, a human radiologist, whether it's next door or around the world, somebody needs to look at those. AI can help." Disclaimer: All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only.  This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

In this heartfelt episode of The Patient From Hell, host Samira Daswani talks to Jill Massey, a pharmacist and pharma industry veteran whose path through cancer has been both personal and professional. Jill shares her experiences as a caregiver for her sister, mother, and husband—all cancer patients—before becoming a patient herself. They discuss the emotional and practical challenges of navigating caregiving, the complexities of the healthcare system, and how Jill's unique perspective as both a medical professional and a patient shaped her approach to advocacy, treatment decisions, and resilience. Key Highlights: 1. A Personal and Professional Journey: Jill reflects on how her family's battles with cancer shaped her career in the pharmaceutical industry, blending personal empathy with professional expertise. 2. Balancing Roles and Emotions: From sibling to spouse to patient, Jill shares the unique emotional dynamics of each role and the coping mechanisms she developed. 3. Empowerment Through Knowledge: Jill emphasizes the importance of patient education, advocating for personalized care, and the evolving role of pharmaceutical companies in supporting patient-centric care. About our guest: Jill Massey, PharmD, MBA, BCMAS is Vice President, Global Medical Strategy and Operations (GMSO) for Gilead Medical Affairs.  In this role, Jill oversees the Patient-focused Implementation Science team, Medical Strategy and Planning, Insights, Data & Analytics and Digital Innovation, Medical Excellence, Medical Affairs Technology, and Scientific Communications including global publications, medical information, medical external affairs and education, and library and information services.   Jill joined Gilead Sciences from Immunomedics where she led the Medical Affairs, Safety and Pharmacovigilance organizations.  Prior to that, she led Medical Affairs at Janssen, The Medicines Company and Melinta Therapeutics as well as the Melinta Global Antimicrobial Resistance Program. She began her career in the pharmaceutical industry at Bristol-Myers Squibb Company.  Previous to her industry roles, Jill was clinical faculty at the Saint Louis College of Pharmacy, Jewish Hospital and the Program on Aging at Washington University School of Medicine.  Jill is a member of the Board of Directors for the Morris County Chamber of Commerce and serves on the Life Sciences Council Steering Committee.  She is a member of the National Advisory Committee for the Robert A. Winn Diversity in Clinical Trials Award Program, a member of the Accreditation Council of Medical Affairs Executive Leadership Board and a member of the Seton Hall University Transformative Leadership Advisory Board.   Jill earned her Doctor of Pharmacy degree from the University of Nebraska Medical Center and her MBA from Drexel University LeBow College of Business. She completed a residency at Mercer University School of Pharmacy and Emory University. She is Board Certified by ACMA.   Jill loves running, baking and spending time with her two kids, Maddie and Alex, and her loved ones, sometimes including her two dogs and cat. Disclaimer: All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only.  This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

In this episode of the Patient from Hell podcast, we speak with Dr. Milana Dolezal, an oncologist from Stanford University, and learn about cutting-edge advancements in cancer treatments, particularly antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) and precision medicine. Dr. Dolezal shares her journey from childhood inspiration to a career in oncology, the evolution of cancer therapies, and how recent innovations are transforming metastatic cancer care. The conversation also delves into the intricacies of cancer biology, the impact of emerging treatments on quality of life, and the hope for a future where therapies are tailored not only to the disease but also to managing side effects effectively. Key Highlights: 1. Oncology Advancements: Dr. Dolezal explains the development of antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) that deliver chemotherapy directly to cancer cells, reducing side effects compared to traditional treatments. 2.Cancer's Complexity: Using vivid analogies, Dr. Dolezal illustrates how cancer evolves to resist treatments, comparing it to navigating New York's subway system. 3. Managing Side Effects: Dr. Dolezal emphasizes a "go low and go slow" approach in administering treatments to minimize side effects, tailoring doses to individual patients' needs to balance efficacy with maintaining quality of life. About our guest: Dr. Dolezal is a board-certified hematologist-oncologist with Stanford Medicine Cancer Center in Emeryville and a clinical associate professor in the Stanford School of Medicine, Division of Oncology. She strives to work with patients to develop care plans that are comprehensive and personalized to achieve the best possible outcomes and quality of life.  She also has extensive experience in research and drug development. She previously held positions as a clinical scientist, assistant medical director, and associate medical director in the BioOncology Therapeutics unit of the biotechnology company Genentech. She has conducted clinical research into fertility preservation in patients with breast cancer, advanced treatments for triple-negative breast cancer, and patients' adherence to anti-cancer therapy. She has co-authored articles on her research findings that appeared in the Journal of Clinical Oncology, Cancer, and other peer-reviewed publications. She also co-authored the chapter “Progression from Hormone-Dependent to Hormone-Independent Breast Cancer” in the textbook Hormones, Genes and Cancer published by Oxford University Press. Disclaimer: All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only.  This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Chris Schuler opens up about his experience as a caregiver, navigating the challenges of neurodegeneration, particularly his father's glioblastoma diagnosis. He shares the emotional turmoil, confusion, along with the overwhelming process of navigating the healthcare system. The conversation underscores the importance of raising awareness and understanding of neurodegenerative diseases and their impact on families. We also delve into the problematic nature of the 'standard of care' in oncology, highlighting the critical need to advocate for yourself. Check out the article Samira referenced towards the end of this episode here. My Cancer GPS™ is coming! Step-by-step subway maps that guide you through the entire cancer experience. Learn more here!⁠ Key Highlights: 1. Self-advocacy is critical in getting the care that's best for you, so ask questions, and get involved. Your healthcare team cares for you and wants to see you back on your feet, but no one can care more than you do. 2. Caregivers need to look after themselves, too. It can feel like there's no room for yourself, but you must find joy. Find joy so that you can cherish whoever is under your care. 3. The role of a caregiver is both rewarding and demanding. Being an advocate for a loved one is a necessary responsibility because the standard is not always the best care you can receive for your individual case. About our guest: Chris Schuler is a staunch brain cancer awareness advocate. He was the primary caregiver to his late Dad, Donald Schuler, who was diagnosed with GBM in July 2021. He works closely with organizations across the globe, amplifying their critical work and building key relationships to further improve outcomes for patients. He recently finished a year-long consultancy with Cure Brain Cancer Foundation, an Australian non-profit dedicated to improving outcomes in brain cancer. He's currently a Venture Partner with Varia Ventures, working to raise awareness for emerging venture funds dedicated to uncovering and funding innovative discoveries to improve brain health. He also works closely with SageMedic, a precision oncology start-up supporting patients looking for the most effective treatment for cancer. Chris continues on as his Dad's caregiver — caregiver to his life, legacy and memory.     At 33 minutes and 18 seconds: “From that very moment, I went from being a lot of things in my life, being a son, a nephew, a grandson, a friend, eventually an uncle, a husband, a father. Now I am a caregiver. I want to say nothing prepared me for that. Everything prepared me for that. The way I was raised, everything I experienced in my life, every up, every down, every victory, every rejection, everything led to this moment where I am now my dad's caregiver with my mom. I call myself the primary caregiver because there was something she couldn't do for him, and how do you become an advocate? How do you take on what seems insurmountable? And I say to any listeners, you can do it. You have what's in you to do it, to be the very best caregiver, because all you need is one prerequisite to be a caregiver. You need to be able to love. If you can love, you are a caregiver.” Disclaimer: All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only.  This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

In this episode, we speak with Dr. Eneida Nemecek, a pediatric oncologist specializing in bone marrow transplants and cellular therapies. Dr. Nemecek provides an in-depth look at the science behind these treatments, the process patients go through, and the challenges faced by both patients and caregivers. She emphasizes the importance of caregiver well-being, particularly sleep, and discusses a PCORI study on stress management for caregivers. The episode concludes with a rapid-fire Q&A session covering key terms and concepts in the field. This episode was supported by the Patient Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) and features these PCORI studies (Study #1 & Study #2) by Mark Laudenslager, PhD. Key Highlights: 1. Bone marrow transplant involves replacing a patient's immune system with a healthier one, either from a donor or the patient's own modified cells. 2. Caregiver quality of life, especially sleep, is crucial for patient outcomes in bone marrow transplant cases. 3. CAR-T therapy is a form of cellular therapy where white blood cells are engineered to attack specific targets, offering new treatment options for certain cancers. About our guest: Dr. Eneida Nemecek is a Professor of Pediatrics and Medical Oncology and Associate Director of Clinical Research at the Knight Cancer Institute-Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) in Portland, Oregon. Native from Puerto Rico, she completed her Pediatric residency at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, OH and Pediatric Hematology/Oncology fellowship at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle, Washington. She has a Master in Epidemiology and Clinical Research from the University of Washington and a Master in Healthcare Business Administration from OHSU. Dr. Nemecek is an established clinical researcher with over 20 years of experience in trials ranging from investigator-initiated early phase to large, multicenter studies funded by a variety of mechanisms.  Her research focuses on bone marrow and cellular therapies, experimental oncology therapeutics and health services research addressing disparities in access for underrepresented groups. She has served in leadership roles in steering committees for several national cooperative research groups.  She has also held elected leadership positions as director, trustee or committee chair in multiple professional organizations. The Your Cancer GPS™ platform is coming! Step-by-step subway maps that guide you through the entire cancer experience. Learn more here!⁠ Key Moments: At 14:40 “Sleep is healthy. If you are the one caregiver of a patient and you get sick because you're stressed and not getting enough rest, then you get affected and your patient gets affected too. It's a very important part of our health. Eat, sleep, get some time for yourself. Those are all things that just need to happen. The way that we're designing medicine today, sometimes we forget that the caregiver is kind of a patient. If we lose that person, we are in serious trouble. I can tell you multiple examples about when that has happened and how difficult it is for the medical team and for the family.” At 28:03 “I think it's really important to remind ourselves that the brain, our psychosocial life, is part of our health. I think sleep, exercise, diet studies, anything that can improve the life of people should be studied in a very organized setting, just like you study drugs, if we're going to do this well.” Disclaimer: All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only.  This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

In this episode of the Patient From Hell, Samira sits down with Megan-Claire Chase, known in the cancer community as "Warrior Megsy." Megan-Claire shares her deeply personal experience of navigating breast cancer and its aftermath. From managing the physical and emotional toll of treatment to finding new ways to regain a sense of self, Megan-Claire offers a powerful account of resilience, self-advocacy, and the importance of asking for help. Her humor, storytelling skills, and openness bring a refreshing perspective on survivorship, making this an inspiring conversation for anyone facing adversity. Key Highlights: 1. Self-advocacy is critical in healthcare, and sometimes, switching doctors is necessary to ensure your voice is heard. 2. The emotional impact of cancer extends beyond treatment, often manifesting in long-term physical pain and identity challenges. 3. Asking for help isn't a sign of weakness—it's a vital step in dealing with the overwhelming aspects of cancer. About our guest: Megan-Claire Chase, also known as Warrior Megsie, is the Breast Cancer Program Director and host of the Our BC Life podcast at SHARE Cancer Support. As an invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC) breast cancer survivor and passionate patient advocate based in Atlanta, GA, Megan-Claire is a dedicated champion for the needs of breast cancer patients, particularly in addressing the disparities faced by minoritized communities and those in the adolescent and young adult (AYA) communities. In addition to her pivotal role at SHARE, she serves on Bayer Oncology's Digital Patient Council, is a patient advocate for the Oncology Data Advisor Editorial Board, and recently joined the Worth the Wait Charity advisory board. She also contributes as a writer and advisory board member for Patient Power, amplifying the voices of breast cancer patients. Megan-Claire's advocacy efforts include participating as a panelist on Leveraging Technology to Support Patient-Centered Multidisciplinary Oncologic Care at the 2024 ASCO Quality Care Symposium, co-authoring a podcast and infographic on genetic testing in metastatic breast cancer, collaborating with Pfizer on the Action Guide to Disrupt Inequitable Health Outcomes, and sharing her personal journey on PBS's Beyond Cancer through Stories from the Stage. Her work has been spotlighted in notable publications like The New York Times, People Magazine, Cancer Health, Cancer Today, and CURE Magazine. Beyond her cancer advocacy, Megan-Claire is a versatile voiceover actor, a dedicated social justice activist, and a proud cat mom to Phoebe. My Cancer GPS™ is coming! Step-by-step subway maps that guide you through the entire cancer experience. Learn more here!⁠ Key Moment: 21 minutes: “Something that people outside of Cancerland may not fully understand is the side effects from the toxic treatments, the side effects from multiple surgeries, the pain that some get fades, they heal, but for others, like moi, I really got the motherload of permanent damage, permanent side effects, effects that happen like a year, two years post cancer. And so I, as I'm talking to you right now, I am in pain. And I often have people say, ‘you don't look like you're in pain.' And I'm like, look, it's not Halloween yet. I don't want to scare you. If I looked how I truly, truly felt on the daily, you would think you're in a scary movie. And so, dealing with multiple types of pain, chronic pain, is something I never, ever thought would be part of my cancer experience." Disclaimer: All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only.  This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

In this episode of the Patient From Hell, we talk to Mike and Megan Scherer, a couple who faced fertility challenges after Mike's testicular cancer diagnosis at age 26. They share their personal journey through cancer treatment, fertility preservation, and eventually becoming parents through assisted reproductive technologies. The Scherers also discuss their non-profit organization, Worth the Wait, which provides financial assistance and support to young adult cancer survivors facing fertility issues. Their story highlights the emotional, financial, and medical complexities of fertility preservation and family building for cancer survivors. Key Highlights: 1. Cancer treatment can significantly impact fertility, making it crucial for patients to discuss preservation options immediately after diagnosis. 2. The financial burden of fertility treatments for cancer survivors is substantial and often not covered by insurance, as was the case for the Scherers. 3. Through their non-profit Worth the Wait, the Scherers aim to alleviate the financial barriers preventing young adult cancer survivors from pursuing fertility preservation and family-building options. About our guests: Mike Scherer is a cancer survivor, co-founder and chief visionary of oncofertility charity Worth the Wait. He is passionate about helping other young adult cancer survivors lead meaningful lives in survivorship. He has shared his perspective with clinical and industry audiences nationally through speaking engagements, articles and podcasts. When he's not advocating for cancer awareness, he enjoys spending time with his family and cycling. Mike is also a managing partner of Summit Financial Strategies, an investment management firm. Megan Scherer is the co-founder and executive director of Worth the Wait. Megan advocates for patients and oncofertility nationally as a speaker and patient advocate. She enjoys the personal relationships she forms with young patients Worth the Wait assists and loves providing hope and inspiring others with her story as a caregiver, infertility patient, and mom to son Elliott. Before co-founding Worth the Wait in 2021, Megan held marketing communication leadership roles in the health insurance industry.  Manta Maps are coming! Step-by-step subway maps that guide you through the entire cancer experience. Learn more here!⁠ Key Moments: At 29 minutes: "We look into the eyes of our child now and we don't think, man, you were an expensive little guy. We just think, we're so fortunate to have you here and be able to raise you. When we sat down to start Worth the Wait, we said, okay, if we were able to remove that financial barrier, would you be willing to go through what is also a difficult process? And the answer was yes." - Mike Scherer At 32 minutes: "There's so many stories of AYA patients every week who are reaching out for assistance and there are people who are maxing out their credit cards to pay for [fertility treatments]. There's people I know that are selling t-shirts, that are selling popcorn, that are doing these things because this is the one thing in their life that they want to have a chance at." - Megan Scherer At 38 minutes: “"You don't have time to waste and depending on the diagnosis you may have a very short window. Banking sperm takes a day but preserving eggs can take weeks, so you want to know upfront." - Megan Scherer Disclaimer: All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only.  This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

In this captivating episode of "The Patient From Hell" podcast, Dr. Sydney Barned shares her unique perspective as both a practicing physician and a seven-and-a-half-year survivor of stage 4 non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Dr. Barned offers invaluable insights into the challenges of navigating a cancer diagnosis, the importance of patient advocacy, and the gaps in understanding between doctors and patients. Her story highlights the need for better communication, education, and support in cancer care, while also shedding light on the personal struggles and triumphs of living with cancer. We also delve into the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) funding study comparing the impact of using different types of material to understand palliative chemo for advanced cancer patients.  This episode was supported by the Patient Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) and features this PCORI study by Debra Schragg, MD, MPH. Key Highlights: 1. Dr. Barned's dual perspective as a doctor and cancer patient provides a rare and insightful look into the complexities of cancer care. 2. The episode emphasizes the importance of patient education and self-advocacy in navigating cancer treatment and palliative care. 3. Dr. Barned's experience reveals gaps in doctor-patient communication and understanding, particularly regarding palliative chemotherapy. About our guest: Dr. Sydney Barned, is a dedicated physician and lung cancer advocate committed to advancing research, raising awareness, and supporting policy initiatives in the field of oncology. Diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer at the age of 33, she brings a unique perspective to lung cancer advocacy, combining her firsthand experience with her medical expertise to drive positive change in the fight against cancer. With a background in Internal Medicine and a focus on hospital medicine as an internal medicine hospitalist, Dr. Barned is actively involved in community outreach and educational initiatives aimed at empowering patients and healthcare professionals alike. Key Moments: At 3 minutes : "So I had to do a lot of compartmentalization and it was some a lot of the times it was tough especially when I got patients who were younger and you know they reminded me of myself.... I've diagnosed patients with cancer, treated the side effects of cancer, you know, had to have those difficult conversations where I'm like,' look, treatment is not working. We need to switch to more comfort based measures.' I've had to bring in hospice and, you know, I've even had to pronounce time of death. So I've seen the entire spectrum and I mean, one of the things that it definitely does make me, it makes me very grateful for the life that I have." At 30 minutes: "Most patients when you're going through a diagnosis of cancer, you are not necessarily understanding everything because the emotions that are tied to hearing you have cancer. So just hearing that in itself is a blow, much less hearing you have advanced disease. That's going to be another blow as well. And a lot of the times when doctors are talking to you after hearing those two statements, it kind of sounds like, again, I'm going to be aging myself, but you remember Charlie Brown? When the adult was talking... you didn't hear anything. And that's kind of what it's like when a patient is hearing all of this information from their doctors." Manta Maps are coming! Step-by-step subway maps that guide you through the entire cancer experience. Learn more here!⁠ -- Disclaimer: All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only.  This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

In this episode, we hear the remarkable story of Wenora Johnson, a three-time cancer survivor who faced the challenges of job loss, single motherhood, and pursuing an education, all while navigating her diagnoses. Wenora shares her experiences with warmth, humor, and wisdom, offering valuable insights for anyone facing adversity. We delve into the cultural taboos surrounding cancer in her community, the critical role genetics played in her health journey, and why involving loved ones in our health decisions is so essential. Wenora's story goes beyond survival; it's about how she turned her experience into a passion for patient advocacy, making a lasting impact in the cancer community. Key Highlights: 1. Given the significant role genetics play as a risk factor for cancer, it is important to keep your family and loved ones informed.  2. Give yourself grace; you don't have to become a patient advocate fighting for systemic change. It's perfectly okay if your focus is simply on getting through today. 3. Having a supportive healthcare team that genuinely wants to see you succeed is crucial—not only for the effort they'll put forth but also for inspiring you to stay healthy and proactive in your treatment.  Feeling lost in your cancer experience? We've created interactive, disease-specific maps to help you see all the paths you might face. Launching this Fall! Sign up for access here. About our guest: Wenora Johnson is a three-time cancer survivor (Colorectal, Endometrial and Basel Cell Carcinoma), Volunteer Research/Patient Advocate and Navy Veteran. As a volunteer with various organizations, she shares her understanding of policy; research; genetic testing; hereditary cancer; patient engagement and clinical trials with patients and the healthcare community. Being a Lynch Syndrome patient, Wenora advocates for genetic testing and awareness. She serves on various panels and review boards to provide extensive feedback on her role as a patient and research advocate with organizations such as CAP (College of American Pathologist); Clinical Trials Curator for Fight CRC; FORCE (Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered) Research Advocate, Peer Navigator and Board Member; a Consumer Reviewer for the DoD Peer Reviewed Cancer Research Program; a PCORI Ambassador and Clinical Trials Panel Member; IRB for local community hospital; NRG Oncology Patient Advocate Committee Member and the AACR Scientist~Survivor Program - presenting a poster on financial toxicities and disparities among minority patients; Center for Genomic Interpretation (CGI) Acceptable Thresholds Committee Board Chair and an External Advisory Board Member for WCG Clinical Services.  She has written various patient advocate blogs and participated as a guest speaker/panelist and serves as the Community Patient Advocate for the University of Chicago Comprehensive Cancer Center and the University of Chicago Cancer Center. Wenora works in administration in the greater Chicagoland area and enjoys reading and traveling with her family. Visit the Manta Cares website  Disclaimer: All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only.  This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

In this episode we speak with Roger Royse, a Silicon Valley lawyer and pancreatic cancer patient. Roger shares his experience navigating the healthcare system, discussing his approach to treatment, the emotional challenges he faced, and the insights he gained along the way. He emphasizes the importance of being proactive, questioning assumptions, and seeking multiple medical opinions. Roger also delves into the anger he felt during his experience and how he learned to channel it productively. Throughout the conversation, he offers valuable advice for both patients and their loved ones, highlighting the need for personal responsibility and careful communication. Key Highlights: 1. The importance of questioning medical assumptions, seeking multiple opinions, and being proactive in your treatment experience. 2. By controlling and channeling emotions like anger, patients can become more effective advocates for their own care. 3. An overview of the dos and don'ts of supporting a loved one facing a cancer diagnosis including the importance of careful communication, the power of offering practical help, and avoiding insensitive or unsolicited advice. About our guest: Roger Royse is a startup lawyer in Silicon Valley and a pancreatic cancer patient. Roger was diagnosed with stage 2B pancreatic adenocarcinoma in July 2022 after taking a multi cancer early detection blood test.  After 6 months of chemotherapy and surgery and an experimental cancer vaccine, Roger currently has no evidence of disease as of July 2024.  Roger has been active for many years with the Leukemia Lymphoma Society having been its Bay area Man of the Year in 2012 and since his diagnosis has joined the board of the Cancer Patient Lab.org, a non profit dedicated to evidence based therapies and has created a community for cancer therapy technology startups to demo their solutions in person and online at www.cancerstartup.com. Roger has since testified to an FDA Advisory committee on multi cancer early detection and has been featured in many publications including the Wall Street Journal on MCED.  Roger believes in the patient being proactive and taking personal responsibility for their health and being very involved in their treatment decisions based on evidence based treatments. Visit the Manta Cares website  Disclaimer: All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only.  This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

In this episode we speak with Bellinda King-Kallimanis, PhD, an expert in oncology research and patient advocacy. Bellinda shares her diverse experience in the field, from academia to the FDA and now her role at LUNGevity Foundation. The conversation covers various aspects of lung cancer, including screening procedures, risk factors, and common misconceptions. Bellinda emphasizes the importance of early detection and addresses the stigma associated with lung cancer. We also delve into the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) and a study comparing the impact of using different types of material to communicate screening information to patients. The episode also includes a rapid-fire Q&A section, where Bellinda provides concise explanations of key terms and concepts related to lung cancer. This episode was supported by the Patient Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) and features this PCORI study by Robert J. Volk, PhD. Key Highlights: 1. Lung cancer screening compliance is strikingly low at 5-6%, despite high risk for those with tobacco history, and additional requirements may further complicate the process. 2. Stigma surrounding lung cancer, primarily due to its association with smoking, can deter people from seeking screening or discussing their health history, despite the fact that people with no tobacco history or people who have not smoked can also develop the disease. 3. Patient involvement in research, through initiatives like citizen science programs, and improved communication of complex information are crucial for advancing lung cancer care and understanding. About our guest: Dr. Bellinda King-Kallimanis is Senior Director of Patient-Focused Research at LUNGevity Foundation. In her work at LUNGevity she aims to ensure that patient and caregiver voices are incorporated in decision making across a wide variety of stakeholders and has built a Citizen Scientist program to aid this. Prior to joining LUNGevity, she worked at the US Food and Drug Administration Oncology Center of Excellence on the Patient Focused Drug Development team. There, she worked on the development and launch of Project Patient Voice, a resource for patients and caregivers along with their healthcare providers to look at patient-reported symptom data collected from cancer clinical trials. Bellinda also has experience in industry and academia and has published over 70 peer-reviewed papers. She received her Bachelor of Social Science and Master of Science in applied statistics from Swinburne University of Technology in Melbourne, Australia, and her PhD in psychometrics from the Academic Medical Center in Amsterdam, Netherlands. Key Moment: At 38:39 “I've taken it on to try to improve my communication as a researcher, because we spend so many years reading complex materials that you just start talking that way. It does not resonate with my family. They'll be like, what are you talking about? Who do you think you are? So if we really want to be able to talk to people and connect the work we do, then we have to be able to talk about it in much simpler terms. I really do think it's so important for us all to work on our abilities to make sure that we are speaking to each other versus, I've been in plenty of conversations where people are not speaking, they're just speaking around each other because there's a gap in the understanding and healthcare is already like very complex and cancer is really scary. So,just being aware of not talking in acronyms all the time.” Visit the ⁠Manta Cares Website⁠ Disclaimer: All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only.  This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Cancer care is difficult enough to navigate as someone with little to no healthcare/biology background, but what does it mean when a physician faces similar challenges within the healthcare system? Dr. Jean-Luc “JL” Neptune shares his compelling caregiver story of caring for his mother and father's cancer diagnoses simultaneously with the help of his sister. We delve into how his experience impacted his career, his outlook into the flaws of the healthcare system, and his perspective on what patients (and caregivers) can do to get the most out of their care.  Key Highlights: 1. Access to contextualized information is not easy; information online without context can be overwhelming and not specific to the patient. 2. The best source of information about your diagnosis and prognosis is likely a doctor in the field, but finding one with the time to fully inform you is not an easy feat either. Fee-for-service care is the current healthcare model, which arguably promotes quantity over quality. However, the tide is slowly but surely shifting towards value-based care. 3. To achieve the highest quality care today, the best thing you can do is advocate for yourself and seek multiple expert opinions. Keeping track of your symptoms is a good idea for effectively and efficiently contextualizing your treatment plan with your provider(s). About our guest: Jean-Luc (“JL”) Neptune, MD MBA is a physician executive, digital health leader, investor and advisor with 20+ years of experience in the health innovation space. Dr. Neptune most recently served as the CEO, Chief Medical Officer, and co-founder of Suntra Modern Recovery, which provided early addiction intervention and treatment services at scale. Prior to Suntra Modern Recovery Dr. Neptune was the founder of Athletik Health Inc., which operated modern sports medicine clinics offering the “athlete in everyone” outstanding clinical care and customer service. Dr. Neptune served as entrepreneur-in-residence at the Hospital For Special Surgery (“HSS”), the #1 rated orthopedic hospital in the United States, working closely with the leadership team of the HSS Innovation Institute. Dr. Neptune was also General Manager at Blueprint Health where he oversaw investments into dozens of digital health companies (including RubiconMD, NexHealth, Moving Analytics, and CleanSlate UV), and continues as a partner in the Blueprint investment funds. Dr. Neptune earned a BA from Columbia College at Columbia University, an MD from the Columbia College of Physicians and Surgeons, and an MBA at the Wharton School. Dr. Neptune completed a residency in internal medicine at New York Presbyterian Hospital and is licensed to practice medicine in the state of New York. Key Moments: At 10:55 “I've often debated with people online about access to information and really as a patient, should you be like going on the internet and looking at all these sites? And my argument is you shouldn't because unless you can contextualize this information, make it specific to you and cut out all of the noise from the signal, you're probably only making yourself more stressed out, more confused by seeking information from all these places.” Visit the Manta Cares website  Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user's own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have, and should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such conditions.

Brad Powers, the co-founder of Cancer Patient Lab shares his insight on a multitude of topics such as: the challenges of innovating healthcare, the importance of personalized care, and Brad's personal experience with cancer.  Key Highlights: 1. Large organizations are resistant to change, making it difficult to innovate within the healthcare industry. 2. Personalized care is the future of healthcare, allowing for tailored treatments and better outcomes. 3. Patients should educate themselves, seek second opinions, and actively participate in decision-making about their care. About our guest: Brad Power is the co-founder and CEO of the Cancer Patient Lab, a patient-led learning community for cancer patients and caregivers navigating testing and treatment decisions beyond the standard of care, and founder of the CancerHacker Lab, which also helps startups that are disrupting the status quo in cancer care. In 2018 Brad was a process innovation researcher and consultant with over 35 years experience and an author of over 75 articles for the Harvard Business Review when he was diagnosed with lymphoma. Brad went through a standard course of chemotherapy, which led to "no evidence of disease" for four years, until it recently recurred. In late 2020 Brad was talking to his friend Bryce Olson, who said he had hit a wall in keeping his metastatic prostate cancer at bay. Brad suggested to Bryce that they could run a hackathon (a collaborative effort of a diverse crowd of experts) for him to find his best next treatment option, which they did. Brad then hosted two hackathons: one for Linnea Olson, a lung cancer patient, and another for Kasey Altman, a young woman with a rare cancer. In 2022 Brad launched Cancer Patient Lab with two advanced prostate cancer patients. Brad hopes to make hackathons and other resources available to many more patients who are facing complex testing and treatment decisions. Brad is a founding member of ennov1; an advisor to 4DPath, Alva10, Cancer Commons, Consuli, Rabble Health, and Travera; and is an active contributor to the Personalized Medicine Coalition. Key Moments: At 2:04 “Software is easy to change and people are hard to change.” At 20:10 “[The podcast] is named after a book called The Patient from Hell. It's written by a Stanford Prath who got diagnosed with a super rare type of cancer. And I was working at a medical diagnostic company when I got diagnosed. The chief medical officer gifted me the book and he said, you need to read this. And I happened to read it right before I started chemo. And that was the fundamental thesis of the book, was that we're sitting in a world of penicillin where most medical professionals are trained to think at the population level. It's all cohorts of patients. You show up, you fit an archetype, you fall into that bucket. That cohort of patients is treated by my standard care that has been tested on that cohort. If you have any amount of variance from that cohort's factors, you're basically lost because the medical professional doesn't actually know what to do with you because they are not trained to think empirically.” Visit the Manta Cares website  Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user's own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have, and should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such conditions.

Janice Cowden, retired nurse and patient advocate, shares her remarkable triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) story. Five years following successful treatment for stage one breast cancer in 2011, Janice was diagnosed with a stage 4 metastatic TNBC recurrence. As of today she has 8 years of no evidence of disease (NED) under her belt. She shares how she stumbled upon the cancer community that inspired her to become the advocate she is today and the uncertainty that comes with NED. She also shares how she copes with losing friends in the cancer community through her patient advocacy work. We also have a rapid fire Q&A where she answers questions surrounding various medical terminologies, diagnoses, and more to keep you in the loop.  NOTE: There is one clarification from the rapid fire Q&A session. The definition of disease free survival (DFS) is the time from random assignment (used in clinical trials and research studies to assign participants to different groups) to cancer recurrence or death from any cause (Gutman SI, Piper M, Grant MD, et al. 2013). Key Highlights: 1. Metastatic breast cancer (MBC) is stage four breast cancer that has spread to distant sites in the body. 2. Finding events and communities centered around cancer not only supports cancer patients emotionally and socially, but can also serve as informational hubs. Being proactive in learning about your diagnosis, whether it's through community and/or research on your own time, can help you feel confident with the choices you make.  3. While finding a community of other cancer patients can help, unfortunately this disease means that you will lose friends you make in these settings. It doesn't necessarily get easier, but finding an outlet to cope with such losses is vital to your wellbeing. About our guest: Diagnosed with Stage IV triple negative breast cancer in 2016, five years after an early-stage breast cancer diagnosis, Janice launched into patient advocacy following training through Living Beyond Breast Cancer's (LBBC) Hear My Voice Outreach program in 2017. As a peer-to-peer support and research patient advocate, Janice is passionate about supporting others with metastatic breast cancer, in addition to continually furthering her scientific knowledge base of this disease, treatments, and clinical trials, which she acquires through attending scientific breast cancer conferences and webinars. Janice is involved with several patient-founded and led organizations including PCDI, GRASP, and Project Life MBC. As a trained peer support volunteer, she is founder of an international online peer support group for patients newly diagnosed with MBC. She serves on the Board of Directors for METAvivor Research and Support Inc., and is an Advisory Board member for Project Life MBC. She is an individual member of the Metastatic Breast Cancer Alliance. When she's not busy with advocacy work, Janice enjoys traveling, reading, outdoor activities, and spending time with family, including her husband, two adult children and three grandchildren. Visit the Manta Cares website  Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user's own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have, and should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such conditions.

In this episode, Dr. Doug Blayney, oncologist, former President of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), and the Chief Medical Officer of Manta Cares, discusses the latest advancements in breast cancer treatments presented at ASCO's 2024 Annual Meeting. He highlights the significant progress in antibody drug conjugates (ADCs), which are engineered to specifically target cancer cells, offering new hope in cancer treatment. The Manta Cares team also attended the ASCO conference, presenting an abstract for a personal treatment management tool designed to assist cancer patients and survivors (and their families!) in navigating their next steps – Manta Maps! For more information, visit our website here and join the list to request access to the digital platform this fall here. Key Highlights: 1. Advancements in breast cancer treatment were highlighted at the ASCO Annual Meeting this year, including alternatives to chemotherapy and the emergence of antibody drug conjugates (ADCs). 2. Checkpoint inhibitors help the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells by removing the "brakes" that prevent the immune system from targeting the cancer. 3. Personalized approaches to treatment based on patient age, co-morbidities, and cancer type, were highlighted, leading to more effective and tailored treatments.  About our guest: Dr. Doug Blayney is an oncology physician who specializes in breast cancer. His research focuses on quality improvement in cancer care systems, new drug development, and patient experience improvement. At the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), he was founding Editor-in-Chief of its flagship practice journal, and as President, started the ASCO Quality Symposium and began planning for ASCO's CancerLinq. He was a founding member of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) Growth Factor Guideline panel, and is a past member of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's Oncology Drugs Advisory Committee and the NCCN Board of Directors. Dr. Blayney leads the Manta Cares Scientific Advisory Board as the Chief Medical Officer. Key Moments: At 1:05 "As a doctor who treats breast cancer, I thought it was important that we have a lot of alternatives to chemotherapy. So even though some of the studies were portrayed as negative because they didn't improve overall survival, I think pushing out the time a patient gets chemotherapy and its associated toxicities is a major advance.” At 21:14 "We need better assays to predict who's going to respond to these ADCs (Antibody Drug Conjugates). We're learning that they're here to stay and they're a great benefit to many with breast cancer and other cancers."  At 35:20 “It's thought that you and people without known cancer, develop one or two cancers a day, small little bitty ones and our body's immune system recognizes that as foreign and eats them up and the cancer doesn't grow and proliferate. One of the ways cancer grows, especially in adults, is immune escape. So somehow the brakes are put on the immune system at some point when that cancer develops. The IO checkpoint inhibitors are thought to work by taking off those brakes.” Visit the Manta Cares website  Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user's own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have, and should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such conditions. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/manta-cares/support

Cecilia Lang-Ree shares her experience as a childhood survivor of acute lymphoblastic leukemia. She shares some of her memories as an inpatient, her struggles with fitting in with her peers at school, and the evolution of her identity in relation to her survivorship. She also shares her discovery of her fertility issues and the importance of discussing fertility as early on as possible as a cancer patient. She ends the episode with powerful advice about owning your survivorship and the resources available for cancer survivors.  Key Highlights: 1. Being a cancer survivor, especially at a young age, significantly affects one's life and identity, often leading to phases of uncertainty, denial, and willful ignorance. Embracing your survivorship can lead you to people who are also in your shoes, and through connections you can find resources that will support your survivorship-specific needs. 2. The AYA (Adolescent and Young Adult) community plays a crucial role in providing support and understanding for young cancer patients.  3. Discovering fertility issues can be emotionally challenging, emphasizing the need for early conversations about fertility options like egg and embryo freezing. Survivorship clinics and self-advocacy are key in navigating these preservation options as well as other side effects of cancer treatments. About our guest: Cecilia Lang-Ree is a childhood leukemia survivor, advocate, and healthcare Product Manager born and raised in the Bay Area. Since her diagnosis at age 4, Cecilia's personal and professional mission has become to make prevention information accessible to all. At work, she combines product strategy, user savvy, and her academic background in chronic disease prevention & behavioral design to pioneer consumer products that help people lead healthier, happier lives.  Currently, Cecilia is the Senior Product Manager at Biolinq, a medical device company developing a minimally invasive glucose monitoring sensor for metabolic health. Cecilia holds an M.S. and B.A. from Stanford University, and outside of work enjoys hiking, skiing, trying new restaurants in San Francisco, and hanging out with her husband, Christian, and beloved family!  Key Moments: At 6:55 “I was very lucky that I had parents who could read scientific journal articles. They could read my clinical protocol and understand the potential side effects and take action to prevent them. They could be my advocates with doctors and nurses, but I saw firsthand that most of the other kids in the hospital did not have that. Many were children of undocumented immigrants or folks just did not have access to that kind of information. And so for me, that has really sparked, in my career, this passion for prevention, early detection, and really knowing that health data and health knowledge is power.” At 11:39 “I didn't want the attention. I wanted so badly just to fit in and be normal. I didn't want anybody to know, push it away, push it away, push it away. Don't put this intention on me. I never wanted anybody to mention the C word, cancer, because when the C word got dropped in the classroom or anywhere else, it just changed the energy in the room. It just sucked all the energy out and people look at you differently.” Visit the Manta Cares website Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user's own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have, and should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such conditions. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/manta-cares/support

Emily Capilouto, a medical anthropologist and cancer advocate, discusses the topics of medical anthropology, fertility preservation, and IVF. She also shares her work in oncology and raising awareness about prostate cancer. The conversation includes a rapid-fire Q&A session on fertility treatments and options. The main takeaways include the importance of early discussions about fertility for cancer patients, the role of reproductive endocrinologists in managing fertility treatment, and the various options available for creating a family outside of IVF. Emily shares her personal experience with IVF and the challenges she faced due to legal and financial barriers where you'll probably find some relatable issues that extend beyond fertility treatments. Key Highlights: 1. Early discussions about fertility are important for cancer patients and their families.  2. Fertility preservation techniques, such as egg freezing and embryo freezing, can help cancer patients preserve their fertility. There are also various options available for creating a family outside of IVF, including surrogacy, adoption, and fostering. 3. Legal and financial barriers, such as lack of insurance coverage and restrictive laws, can significantly impact access to not only IVF care but other branches of medicine.  About our guest: Emily completed a Masters of Public Health in Epidemiology at the University of Alabama at Birmingham in 2012 and a Masters of the Arts in Medical Anthropology at the University of Kentucky in 2018. Her academic research focused on the detection and prevention of reproductive cancers and access to reproductive healthcare in domestic and international settings. She has worked in the nonprofit sector for the last fifteen years at the local, state, and federal level. When not focusing her efforts on health promotion, Emily is forever working to complete her classical Pilates teacher certification, loves curling up with a good mystery or thriller novel, and enjoys spending time with her friends, family, and husband. Key Moments: At 14:40 “So many cancer patients choose to use fertility treatments because there is a chance that treatments and surgeries that they will undergo to fight cancer can impact fertility. That is true for both men and women.” At 35:59 “The Alabama Supreme Court ruled that embryos have the same legal status as children, disrupting IVF care in the state. Most clinics, including mine, halted services due to potential legal risks. This ruling stemmed from a lawsuit referencing the Wrongful Death of a Child Act after a patient's embryos were accidentally destroyed. The plaintiffs did not intend for their lawsuit to affect other families seeking IVF, but the ruling had widespread consequences. For about three weeks, the legal status of embryos as children meant mishandling them could be considered homicide, and transferring embryos out of state was impossible.” At 49:47 “I had someone this week tell me that navigating cancer is like getting a PhD. You have to get the PhD to be able to navigate cancer. I had another person tell me that the trauma of getting through the healthcare system is worse than the trauma of getting the cancer diagnosis.” Visit the Manta Cares website  Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user's own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have, and should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such conditions. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/manta-cares/support

This episode features Aurora Lucas sharing her experience navigating stage 3A lung cancer, starting from her symptoms and misdiagnosis to her eventual diagnosis and targeted treatment. She shares aspects of her story that all of us can relate to: insurance problems, delays, being rushed into life altering decisions, and more. She also talks about the impact of her diagnosis on her fertility and the decision to undergo fertility treatments before starting treatment. She highlights the need for open conversations about taboo topics like fertility in young cancer patients. Today Aurora is active in patient advocacy and shares her story with the hope that listeners like you can find comfort and community in this tough diagnosis.  Key Highlights: 1. Advocating for oneself is crucial in the healthcare system, especially for cancer patients. This includes getting a second opinion to explore alternative treatment options and biomarker testing, engaging in open conversations about taboo topics with your doctors, and connecting with survivor communities and support through social media. 2. Misdiagnosis and delays in diagnosis can significantly impact a patient's treatment journey. Newly diagnosed patients should try to come prepared with questions and a notebook to medical appointments, and seek support from survivor communities for accurate information and guidance. 3. Grappling with the uncertainty about the future is a common struggle for cancer patients. Finding ways to cope, live in the present moment, and reevaluate priorities, including the importance of healthy relationships, are key aspects of navigating a cancer diagnosis. About our guest: Aurora hails from the land of 7,000 islands, the Philippines. Having left her country at the age of 9 and becoming a part of the Filipino diaspora, Aurora continues to see the world from different perspectives. She is fluent in Tagalog, English, and is learning Spanish. Aurora was diagnosed with Non Small Cell Lung cancer at the age of 28, during her 2nd year of her EdD in Leadership program. She is now 31 years old, and in the final stretch of her EdD program. Aurora is fiercely committed to co-creating conversations that are centered on serving BIPOC patients, and their communities. During her free time, she loves looking for coffee shops, journaling, taking photos and videos, as well as learning new languages. You can find Aurora on: Substack, Instagram, TikTok Key Moments: At 07:46 "I remember this one resident, she held my hand and was staring at me. I thought, okay, she's trying to tell me something but can't because she's not my actual doctor. They kept staring at my hands, lifting them up, and looking at my fingers without explaining. I later found out that curving of your fingers can be a symptom of lung cancer." At 15:55 "I distinctly remember being told about cancer not by the healthcare system or anyone I knew. Someone recently asked me, doesn't the doctor call you for an in-person appointment? I said, no, the odds are Dr. Google is the one telling you. That's the reality." At 26:23 "Every time I saw that speaking up actually changed things to how I wanted, it gave me more confidence." Visit the Manta Cares website  Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user's own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have, and should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such conditions. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/manta-cares/support

In this episode, Dr. Geoff Oxnard, a thoracic oncologist, discusses his career journey into oncology and shares insights from his experience treating lung cancer patients and conducting research. He emphasizes the increasing role of precision medicine and genomic and biomarker testing in guiding treatment decisions, providing examples of how identifying specific mutations can lead to dramatically better outcomes with targeted therapies. Dr. Oxnard also highlights the changing narrative surrounding lung cancer, with emerging stories of remarkable responses and newfound optimism as treatments improve. He provides perspective on navigating clinical trials, especially for rare genomic subtypes, and shares his motivations for transitioning from academia to the pharmaceutical industry, driven by a desire to have a larger impact on drug development and patient care. Key Highlights: 1. The increasing role of precision medicine and genomic testing in guiding lung cancer treatment decisions. 2. The changing narrative and renewed optimism surrounding lung cancer, as treatments improve and stories of remarkable responses emerge. 3. Dr. Oxnard's transition from academia to the pharmaceutical industry, driven by a desire to have a larger impact on drug development and patient care. About our guest: Geoff Oxnard, M.D., is the Vice President, Clinical Development, Global Head, Thoracic Cancer at Loxo@Lilly. Previously, Dr. Oxnard served as a thoracic oncologist and clinical-translational researcher at Dana Farber Cancer Institute and was also an Associate Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School. Dr. Oxnard received his BA in chemistry from Harvard University and his MD from the University of Chicago-Pritzker School of Medicine. He completed his residency in internal medicine at Massachusetts General Hospital and completed his fellowship in medical oncology at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. As an experienced oncologist, Dr. Oxnard is passionate about raising awareness of thoracic cancer and helping to make an impact on cancer care. Key Moment: 8 minutes: “It starts with precision therapy, if I may, right? Once you have defined a specific molecular subtype, you've tried to sort of sift through the randomness of cancer care to find a group of patients who are going to behave in a similar way. Let's go into that for a moment, if I may, OK? EGFR mutations. If you give an EGFR inhibitor in the original studies to a bunch of patients on average with lung cancer, they live a couple months longer, but 10 % of those patients have fantastical responses that can last for a year or two or more. And so when you are a lung cancer patient, which are you looking for, by the way, to live on average two months longer or to have a fantastical response that can work for years? And of course, people are looking to be that outlier.” Visit the Manta Cares website  Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user's own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have, and should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such conditions. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/manta-cares/support

In this episode, Kimary Kulig, PhD, MPH dives into the topic of cancer biomarkers. Kimary explains the difference between genes and proteins, germline versus somatic gene testing, and the critical importance of testing for both as biomarkers for treatment selection. She also describes the world of lung cancer biomarkers and the implications for treatment decisions. The conversation highlights the need for patients and their families to understand biomarkers and the impact those biomarkers have on treatment options. Biomarker testing in cancer patients is crucial for personalized treatment, but there are significant challenges and delays in the current system. The long turnaround time for biomarker testing can be harmful to patients with aggressive cancers who need immediate, targeted treatment. Kimary highlights that patients and their families need to be aware of the importance of biomarker testing and advocate for it.  Key Highlights: 1. Biomarker testing should encompass both germline and somatic gene alterations. Germline testing is sometimes called “genetic testing” and identifies inherited mutations that appear in every cell in the body, whereas somatic gene  testing detects mutations just in cancer cells, some of which can be targeted with specific drugs. 2. There can be significant delays in biomarker testing results, which can be particularly harmful for patients with aggressive cancers. These delays often result in patients beginning chemotherapy while awaiting results, potentially impacting the efficacy of targeted therapies. 3. Kimary discusses the lack of “reflex” testing in the current system, where biomarker tests are not automatically ordered based on the type of cancer. Implementing reflex testing could speed up the process, ensuring timely and appropriate treatment for patients. About our guest: Kimary Kulig's professional career has spanned the academic, non-profit, large pharma, start-up, and healthcare technology ecosystems. Kimary is currently Owner and Principal of Kulig Consulting, providing advice and service to biotech start-up, pharmaceutical, and medical device companies who develop oncology products.  She also provides individual Biomarker Navigation services to cancer patients as My Biomarker Navigator™. Kimary applied her unique training in immunology, molecular oncology, and epidemiology for 12 years at both Pfizer and Bristol Myers Squibb. Her pharma career is highlighted by research on lung cancer biomarkers which are now standard of care companion diagnostics.  Kimary was also Vice President at the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) where she oversaw all operations of its Outcomes Research Database. At Verily Life Sciences, Kimary was Head of Oncology Clinical Research and led digital pathology machine learning and wearable device oncology application development. Kimary continues in her goal to bring AI tools to clinical practice as a member of the Friends of Cancer Research Digital Pathology Working Group. Kimary received her PhD from New York University's Institute of Graduate Biomedical Sciences and her MPH from Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health. Visit the Manta Cares website  Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user's own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have, and should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such conditions. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/manta-cares/support

Dr. Kozower, a thoracic surgeon, discusses the role of surgery in lung cancer treatment and the use of surgery in the diagnosis of lung cancer. The conversation then shifts to the PCORI study on lung cancer surveillance, where Dr. Kozower explains that the intensity of surveillance, such as the frequency of CT scans, does not impact survival rates for lung cancer patients in retrospect. We also discuss the future of lung cancer treatments.  This episode was supported by the Patient Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) and features this PCORI study by Dr. Kozower. Key Highlights: 1. Surgery is the primary treatment for early-stage lung cancer, serving both curative and diagnostic purposes. 2. Surveillance, including regular follow-up visits and imaging, is crucial for detecting new lung cancers, especially in individuals with a history of the disease. Screening, on the other hand, aims to detect cancer in its early stages in individuals without symptoms. 3. The narrative around lung cancer is changing due to advancements in molecular diagnostics, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy, offering more hope and optimism for patients. About our guest: Benjamin D. Kozower, MD, MPH is a Professor and Vice Chair of Surgery at the Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, MO. He completed his General Surgery training at the University of Connecticut in 2004 and his Cardiothoracic Surgery residency at Washington University in 2006. Dr. Kozower worked at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville, VA from 2006-2016 until returning to St. Louis in 2016. He is a General Thoracic Surgeon with a focus in thoracic oncology and directs the Thoracic Robotic Program at Barnes Jewish Hospital. He is also a clinical outcomes and health services researcher with funding from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, the Patient Centered Outcomes Research Institute and the National Cancer Institute. Key Moments: At 7:29 "Surgery is the traditional treatment for early-stage lung cancer, patients who have small tumors typically confined to the lung when hopefully it can be curative." At 14:50 "Everybody's followed after their cancer treatment. What's not clear is how often should we follow people?" At 15:38 "The more frequently I'm seen, the earlier something could be detected and the better I'll do. Makes perfect sense. Unfortunately, I'm not sure it's true."  At 35:41 “Fortunately now we're starting to see the development of targeted therapies for specific [lung cancer] mutations. We're starting to see different types of therapies, and not just chemotherapy, but something called immunotherapy, which stimulates the body's immune system to help fight the cancer. So these things have dramatically changed the paradigm of how we treat lung cancers.” Visit the Manta Cares Website Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user's own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have, and should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such conditions. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/manta-cares/support

Abigail Johnston shares her experience as a patient with de novo metastatic breast cancer since 2017. She discusses the challenges she faced in getting a diagnosis and the systemic flaws of the healthcare system. Abigail emphasizes the importance of being an informed and proactive patient, and advocating for yourself even if you're labeled “difficult.” Abigail's fighter spirit in this episode is truly inspiring, and that's what makes her a fellow patient from hell.  Key Highlights: 1. Being an informed and proactive patient is crucial and so is seeking multiple opinions for informed decisions. 2. Personalized, patient-centered care is essential for better healthcare outcomes, focusing on individual needs and preferences. There are fundamental flaws to the current system which treats patients like products on an assembly line. In other words, there's lots of work that needs to be done to achieve personalized care.  3. To be a “patient from hell” means that you won't blindly follow what your doctors say; it means that you'll ask questions, get multiple opinions, and do your own research before committing to a choice that will likely impact you permanently. About our guest: Abigail is a daughter, mother, wife, and attorney who was diagnosed with Stage IV Metastatic Breast Cancer (MBC) in June of 201, close on the heels of a misdiagnosed early stage diagnosis in March of 2017. The first few months after her diagnosis were a whirlwind and full of many profound changes, including quite a few surgeries, but Abigail soon found her footing and started her blog "No Half Measures," where she talks about whatever comes to mind, within the lens of her Stage IV diagnosis. Abigail's boys, Liam and Malcolm, who were nearly 2 and nearly 4 at the time of her diagnosis, along with her husband, Elliot, make their own appearances in Abigail's advocacy since it truly is a family affair. For Abigail, advocacy is a whole life endeavor and she never does anything halfway; working with a variety of organizations, including, but not limited to:  1) Project Life Director of Mentorship and Legal Clinics 2) SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Board Member and Chair of MBC Leadership Committee 3) PIK3CA PathBreakers Co-founder Outside of her cancer life, Abigail enjoys spending time with her family and very spoiled cat, reading, crafting, and dreaming up more ways to experience life with her boys. Key Moments: 27:54: “So I tell all my doctors, I'm the boss, I'm the decision maker, you are my advisor. So you are telling me, because you know, as a, and I'll even talk about like as a lawyer, I would have expert witnesses, right? And they would help me understand or explain something that I'm unfamiliar with. So I tell them, I take responsibility for my decisions. I am leaning on you for your expertise. I am leaning on you for your recommendations, but I'm looking at this as your opinion, you're giving me your opinion, which is why I seek out multiple opinions from multiple doctors.” ⁠Visit the Manta Cares website⁠  Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user's own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have, and should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such conditions. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/manta-cares/support

Dr. Karen Wernli, a Senior Scientific Investigator at Kaiser Permanente Washington Health Research Institute, explores the topic of preoperative breast MRIs in a PCORI funded study. The conversation provides insights into the emotional and practical aspects of living with cancer and the need for improved communication between researchers and patients. They touch on the classification of breast density, the importance of guidelines, and the need for mandatory reporting of breast density and discuss various topics related to breast cancer screening and decision-making. They also explore the concept of decision quality and how it is measured in research studies. This episode was supported by the Patient Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) and features this PCORI study by Karen Wernli, PhD, Diana Miglioretti, PhD, Karla Kerlikowske, MD, Anna Tosteson ScD & Tracy Onega, PhD. Key Highlights: 1. Dr. Karen Wernli explores how breast density may influence decision quality and regret in treatment decisions involving preoperative breast MRIs.  2. Breast density is not only a factor in masking breast cancers but also an independent risk factor for breast cancer itself, and patients are eligible for advanced screening if they have dense breasts. 3. The discussion focuses on understanding how the use of preoperative breast MRIs affects decision quality and regret among women diagnosed with breast cancer. The study aims to shed light on whether additional imaging tests lead to increased confidence in treatment decisions or potentially cause regret. About our guest: Karen Wernli, PhD, is a Senior Scientific Investigator at Kaiser Permanente Washington Health Research Institute and Professor in the Department of Health System Science at Kaiser Permanente Bernard J. Tyson School of Medicine. She is a cancer epidemiologist and health services researcher whose work focuses on incorporating patient-centered outcomes to improve health care along the cancer care continuum, from prevention to survivorship. Her work spans several types of cancer (including breast and lung), and explores the impact of cancer in special populations (adolescents and young adults with cancer). Her research strives to answer critical questions at the confluence of patients' needs and clinical priorities. Research reported in this podcast  was funded through a Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) award (PCS-1504-30370). Data collection for this research was additionally supported by the Breast Cancer Surveillance Consortium with funding from the National Cancer Institute (P01CA154292, U54CA163303), the Agency for Health Research and Quality (R01 HS018366-01A1), the UC Davis Clinical and Translational Science Center, the UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center, and the Placer County Breast Cancer Foundation. The perspective shared is solely the responsibility of Dr. Wernli and does not necessarily represent the official views of the Patient Centered Outcomes Research Institute or Kaiser Permanente. Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user's own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have, and should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such conditions. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/manta-cares/support

Black women with breast cancer have higher mortality rates and recurrence rates than white women. On this episode, we speak with Ricki Fairley, breast cancer survivor and co-founder of TOUCH, The Black Breast Cancer Alliance and her daughter Hayley Brown, Director of Programs, about why health equity is such a major issue, and the need for better access to care and more research on the biology of the disease in Black women. This conversation explores various themes related to Black breast cancer, including access to healthcare, disparities in trials and outcomes, the need for personalized care, and the importance of education and advocacy. Don't miss an important conversation with this mother and daughter dynamic duo! Key Highlights 1. Black women face higher mortality and recurrence rates of breast cancer compared to white women, indicating a significant disparity in outcomes. 2. The drugs and treatments currently available are not as effective for Black women, highlighting a need for more research and tailored approaches. Additionally, there is a lack of representation of Black women in clinical trials, limiting the understanding of how treatments may specifically impact this population. 3. Health equity and access to care are major issues in the Black community, impacting the ability of Black women with breast cancer to receive adequate care. Challenges include access to healthcare services, internet access for information, and representation in clinical trials. Addressing these challenges requires personalized care, education, advocacy, and activism to improve outcomes for Black women with breast cancer. About our guests: Ricki Fairley is an award-winning, seasoned marketing veteran that has transformed her strategic acumen into breast cancer advocacy. Ricki co-founded and serves as CEO of TOUCH, The Black Breast Cancer Alliance to address Black Breast Cancer as a unique and special disease state, with the overall goal of reducing the mortality rate for Black women. As a Triple Negative Breast Cancer Survivor/Thriver, Ricki's personal purpose, passion, mission, ministry, and blessing is to bring focus, attention, research, science, and action to eradicating Black Breast Cancer, and supporting and coaching what she calls her “Breasties” through their breast cancer experience. She also actively assists pharmaceutical companies in revamping and designing their clinical trial recruiting materials. Hayley Brown serves as the Director of Programs and Partnerships for TOUCH, The Black Breast Cancer Alliance. TOUCH is a non-profit organization focusing on eradicating Black Breast Cancer. Hayley's goal is to bring the TOUCH programming to where all black women live, work, play, pray, and slay through local community outreach and national events. She is currently focused on reaching young black women and defining Black Breast Health. In combination with her teaching background and her passion for supporting breasties at all parts of their journey, Hayley plans to continue to educate, empower, and equip this amazing community to be the CEO's of their own health. Visit the Manta Cares website  Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user's own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have, and should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such conditions. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/manta-cares/support

In this episode, we interview Erika Bell, PhD from the Bay Area Cancer Connections (BACC) patient advocacy community about ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). Erika discusses the role of BACC in supporting cancer patients, the challenges of finding support during the pandemic, and the importance of patient advocacy organizations. She then dives into a detailed explanation of DCIS, its characteristics, and how it differs from invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC). We also delve into the decision-making process for treating DCIS, discussing options such as lumpectomy and mastectomy, and examine the role of sentinel lymph node biopsy in DCIS. This includes a detailed discussion on the findings of a study regarding sentinel lymph node biopsy in DCIS patients and its implications for treatment decisions. Above all, this conversation underscores the complexity of decision-making in cancer treatment and the need for personalized support and information for patients. This episode was supported by the Patient Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) and features this study by Dr. Shiyi Wang. Key Highlights: 1. DCIS is known as stage 0 breast cancer because it hasn't spread outside of the breast ducts. However, there is not enough research to determine the conditions that increase the chances of DCIS evolving into IDC.  2. Sentinel lymph node biopsy is not necessary for most DCIS patients as the risk of lymph node involvement is low. 3. Personalized support and information are crucial for patients to make informed decisions about their treatment. About our guest: Erika Bell is the Director of Cancer Information and Education at Bay Area Cancer Connections (BACC), a community-based non-profit that supports people with breast or ovarian cancer. In this role she provides health education, personalized research, and medical decision-making support to clients. She has been with the organization for 14 years and is passionate about her work and the positive impact that it has on empowering people during a difficult time in their lives. She also serves as the Vice Chairperson for the California Breast Cancer Research Program Council. Erika earned an undergraduate degree in Biology from Cornell University and a doctorate degree in Molecular and Cellular Biology and Biochemistry from the University of California, San Francisco. Key Moments: At 13:43 “There are a lot of people where maintaining as much breast tissue as possible is the most important thing to them in addition to still having feeling in their breast, so they opt for a lumpectomy. Other people really have a strong urge to just get everything out, “I don't ever want to have to deal with this again, please remove everything.” Those people also tend to be thinking about double mastectomies, which in the case of DCIS and no inherited genetic predisposition to breast cancer or no strong family history really is not medically indicated, but there are still women who make that choice, either driven by their anxiety or future screenings or symmetry that they want to achieve, etc.” Visit the Manta Cares website --  Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user's own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have, and should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such conditions. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/manta-cares/support

In this episode, we embark on a profound exploration of death with the help of two remarkable individuals. Katie Coleman bravely shares her experience as a survivor of Stage IV liver cancer, a path fraught with uncertainty and a lack of available information. Julie McFadden is a hospice nurse whose daily encounters with death provide unique insights. She educates online audiences about various topics surrounding death. Join us as we unpack the mystery surrounding death: the process, the taboos, doctor and patient relationships, and more. Key Highlights: The transition from fear to acceptance of death involves acknowledging and expressing those fears and getting educated about the dying process. End-of-life experiences can be peaceful and meaningful, providing comfort and solace to both patients and their loved ones. Honest conversations about the dying process are crucial for patients and their families. The fear of death can skew decision making, particularly in the context of terminal illness, but having the full picture can help patients better understand all of their options. About our guests: Julie McFadden, BSN, RN, has been a nurse for 15 years.  Julie is an experienced ICU, and now hospice/palliative nurse. Julie has been passionate about normalizing death through education to the masses using social media. She has been featured in Newsweek, USA today, The Atlantic, and several other articles worldwide. Her TikTok has 1.4M followers, and you can find her on all social media platforms (Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube) at Hospice Nurse Julie. Julie's new book is coming out in June: Nothing To Fear.  Katie Coleman is a patient advocate who was diagnosed with a rare stage IV kidney cancer in Dec 2020, at the age of 29. She has shared her diagnosis publicly on social media to spread awareness and to advocate for others with kidney cancer and rare diseases. Since being diagnosed, she has also founded a non-profit, started a podcast and is publishing an upcoming memoir, which you can preorder here. You can find her on social media here: TikTok, Instagram, Youtube and Twitter). Key Moments: At 09:34 “Not only am I now dealing with the crippling anxiety of death and dying, but now I'm also dealing with the crippling anxiety of letting people down by even saying and acknowledging those feelings…? But for me, it came from like, first I was terrified to look into anything. It just felt like I was doing something wrong by trying to investigate what it was like to die. But then once I got over that, where I personally found a lot of peace when I started hearing about near death experiences and end of life visions that Julie often talks about.” At 22:02 “All I know is in watching people die a natural death, people need to know about this. People need to know about what it looks like and what happens to our bodies because it's not as scary as we think. And then when I think of my own mortality and I think about if I got diagnosed with something terminal tomorrow, I'm still human. I'm gonna have all the feelings, anger, sadness, scared. I'm still gonna be scared, but I also know that my body will take care of me. My body will take care of me. And I know that because I've witnessed it.” Visit the Manta Cares website  Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user's own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have, and should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such conditions. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/manta-cares/support

In this episode, we interview mother and son Ashlee and Michael, hosts of the podcast “Michael and Mom Talk Cancer." They share their personal cancer experience and discuss topics such as managing work and finances, the impact of cancer on athleticism and identity, and the importance of maintaining positivity and mental health. They also touch on the concept of toxic positivity and how different individuals have different approaches to dealing with their illness, the challenges of comparing stories and outcomes, as well as the balance between quantity and quality of life. Michael and Ashlee share their experiences of living with the constant reminder of mortality and finding joy in the small things, while also emphasizing the importance of connection and offering practical tips for navigating the cancer experience. Key Highlights: Having a strong support system is crucial for navigating the challenges of cancer as well as life, in general. Acceptance and adapting to new circumstances can help you thrive throughout your cancer experience, but it's also okay to be upset and angry (you have every right to be). Maintaining a realistic outlook while embracing positivity is important when living with cancer. About our guests: Meet Michael Cramer, a 22-year-old cancer survivor and bone marrow transplant recipient, known for his social media influence. Born in Paris and raised in Miami, Michael's athletic background includes surfing, skating, and being part of the Olympic Development team for windsurfing. Ashlee, also known as "mom," has a diverse background as a dancer turned early childhood educator turned cancer caregiver. In 2014, tragedy struck when her husband was diagnosed with Large B Cell Lymphoma. Ashlee became the sole provider for their three children while caring for her husband until his passing in 2016, which brought the family closer together. In July 2020, heartbreak struck again when Michael was diagnosed with an incredibly rare and aggressive cancer, Hepatosplenic T-cell lymphoma, with less than 200 documented cases ever. Despite the average survival being only 8 months, Ashlee quit her job to care for Michael full-time. After enduring chemotherapy, radiation, a bone marrow transplant, and various life-threatening complications, Michael miraculously survived. Throughout his journey, Ashlee never left his side, strengthening their unbreakable bond.  Turning their heartbreak into a story of "beauty in pain" and love, Michael and Ashlee started a podcast called "Michael and Mom Talk Cancer," along with a website, blog, and YouTube channel. While Michael is still in treatment for complications, he is alive and in remission. Together, Michael and Ashlee strive to fulfill their purpose of love and connection, inspiring not only the cancer community but anyone in need of motivation. Key Moments: 0:00-11:36 Ashlee and Michael's Story 11:37-19:50 Comparing and Contrasting Past Confrontations with Cancer 19:51-24:25 What Michael's Remission Looks Like 24:26-32:24 Reality Checks, Radical Acceptance, Toxic Positivity, etc. 32:25-41:28 The Insight Brought on By Daily Reminders of Mortality 41:29-44:39 Ashlee and Michael's Advice to All Our Listeners Visit the Manta Cares website  Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user's own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have, and should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such conditions. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/manta-cares/support

In this episode, we talk with Dennis Watson and Cliff Reid, two entrepreneurs in the cancer space. They speak about the difference between genetics and genomics, and the role of genetic and genomic testing in clinical decision-making. They also touch on the history and impact of DNA sequencing and the challenges in applying genomics to cancer treatment. This conversation explores the development of Travera, a company advancing personalized cancer treatments. Dennis and Cliff share their hopes for the future of oncology, including the expansion of diagnostic tools and the increasing involvement of patients in their own care. Key Highlights: The field of DNA sequencing has evolved over the years, but the application of genomics in cancer treatment still faces challenges in achieving widespread success.  Sales and commercial teams play a crucial role in educating clinicians about new innovations in personalized oncology, and oftentimes scientific/product innovations take a while to actually become a part of a clinician's practice.  The future of personalized oncology involves the development of multiple techniques for selecting the right drug for the right patient at the right time, as well as increased patient involvement in their own care. About our guests: Dennis Watson joined Travera in July of 2022 as the Vice President of Business Development. He brings 15+ years of extensive sales and management experience in the oncology molecular diagnostic space. Dennis spent nearly 10 years with Agendia, beginning as a field-based sales professional, working his way up to gain experience in multiple facets of the business, receiving top-tier awards and recognition throughout his tenure. He served 4 years as a Regional Director in the Central US, before moving on to lead the US commercial sales organization in January of 2018. Prior to his work with Agendia, Dennis spent 5 years with the Oncology division of Myriad Genetics. Before Myriad Genetics, he also held positions in the pharmaceutical, industrial services, and web services industries. Clifford Reid was the founding CEO of Travera. Previously, Dr. Reid was the founding Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer of Complete Genomics (NASDAQ: GNOM), a leading developer of whole human genome DNA sequencing technologies and services. Prior to Complete Genomics, he founded two enterprise software companies: Eloquent (NASDAQ: ELOQ), an internet video company, and Verity (NASDAQ: VRTY), an enterprise search engine company. Dr. Reid is on the Visiting Committee of the Biological Engineering Department at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), a member of the MIT Corporation Development Committee, and an advisor to Warburg Pincus.   Visit the Manta Cares website  Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user's own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have, and should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such conditions. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/manta-cares/support

Sit back, relax, and get ready to dive into the world of hypnotherapy! In this episode, Dr. Sonia Gupte will explore the intriguing realm of hypnotherapy and its potential impact on the mental and physical well-being of cancer patients. Join us as we debunk common misconceptions, shed light on the benefits, and delve into the current regulatory landscape surrounding this fascinating therapeutic approach.   Check out the mentioned research in Dr. Gupte's book here. Key Highlights: Cultural taboos towards mental health and how finding communities who struggle with similar problems can help with depression, anxiety, etc. Hypnotherapy's capabilities for improving quality of life, including mental health, pain management, and sleep quality in cancer patients.  The trials and tribulations of becoming a caregiver and potential research on hypnotherapy for caregivers. About our guest: With over 15 years of experience as a Family Medicine Physician in major healthcare facilities across India, Singapore, and Dubai, Dr. Gupte now focuses on treating patients through the power of the mind. For the past 9 years, she has utilized Clinical Hypnotherapy to tap into the "Human Subconscious Mind," effectively addressing physical and emotional conditions. Dr. Gupte is dedicated to integrating this modality into mainstream medicine and has authored the best-selling book "WITHIN," detailing her journey and successful patient case studies. She founded the Nonprofit Organization "Mind Medicine Movement" to promote mind-body healing and is particularly focused on helping cancer survivors improve their quality of life through hypnotherapeutic tools. Key Moments: At 5:30 "I truly felt that we are missing something huge in the medical field. We are not looking at a patient in the holistic way, which we should be." At 26:52 "So hypnotherapy as a modality is very, it has very clear boundaries. It is not forever. You come with a goal. That goal is delivered through experiences which...are somewhere lost like a maze in your subconscious."  At 40:57 “The surprising thing is that when you research hypnosis and hypnotherapy, there is so much work which has already been done in the last few decades because we have been curious to bring this modality back into the medical field. Many successful researchers have done this and the focus has been pain management. The focus has been anxiety, depression. And when you specifically dive into hypnotherapy in oncology, starting from the diagnostic procedures to the treatment to the quality of life in survivors, there have been researchers established already showcasing the efficacy of the power of mind.“ At 51:53 “Caregiver burnout is real. Caregiver stress anxiety is very real. In India, we opened the doors for caregivers as well. We actually tried to convince them, “come with the survivor because you need equal care.” You know how we say on the airplane, put the mask first on your face and then on the next person? They happily agreed and they worked on themselves and they found so many things we are in denial of. Your sleep quality improves. Your joy to live life improves. Everything goes to the next level. And that is what they realized just in four days. So we are opening up this project for caregivers as well.” Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user's own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have, and should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such conditions. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/manta-cares/support

In this episode, Dr. Fumiko Chino shares her inspiring journey from art director to oncologist, driven by her experience as a caregiver. She highlights the gap between ideal and actual cancer care by discussing a breast cancer imaging study where some patients with Stage 2 and 3 disease received scans to monitor for cancer. Dr. Chino goes into why “surveillance“ scans may or may not be beneficial, and clinicians must communicate this to their patients. She then stresses the importance of personalized communication and understanding patients' unique experiences in order to build trust. Dr. Chino also touches on why prioritizing physicians' well-being to prevent burnout matters. This episode was supported by the Patient Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) and features this study by Caprice C. Greenberg, MD, MPH. Key Highlights: There is a gap between intended care and actual care. The solution doesn't have to be so grand either; we can start at small acts of kindness and accessibility.  Communication with patients should be tailored to each individual, taking into account their unique experiences and perspectives.  There is often no singular right answer in cancer treatment, and the best plan for a patient may vary depending on their circumstances. Doctors should also prioritize their own well-being to prevent burnout and thus be able to provide better care to their patients. About our guest: Fumiko Chino, MD is a cancer researcher, Assistant Attending in Radiation Oncology, and Lead of the Affordability Working Group at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. She is also one of the Directors at the Costs of Care group, a NGO working to improve affordability in healthcare and the recipient of the inaugural 2022 ASCO Excellence in Equity Award. Her research is focused on financial toxicity, gaps in survivorship, health care disparities, and access; she has spoken across the US and internationally on equity and the costs of care. Key Moments: 14:00 “I deliver care in the United States, one of, if not the wealthiest countries, certainly a country of privilege where we have every bell and whistle, and yet not everyone can access those bells and whistles. Not everyone has the capacity for receiving the highest quality of care. And even when I am able to offer the best, every bell and whistle delivered to the person and their capacity to receive it can be quite variable, right? Access, affordability, these are all like large barriers.You know, one of my most well-lauded studies is on parking costs, which is quite frankly like a really stupid thing to study. Like, why would parking be a barrier to anyone? It's parking. . But what's truly insulting is that people who actually can't get the care that they really need in the facility that would probably serve them best because of a silly barrier like parking.” 53:31 “Just realizing that what is the right plan for this person is probably not the right plan for this other person, and understanding that coming to that conclusion together, trying to figure out again, sussing out, even if it's the small tailored things of like, ‘What can we do to make this easier for you?' It's not one size fits all. It's really, or it shouldn't be, how about that?” Visit the Manta Cares website --  Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user's own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have, and should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such conditions. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/manta-cares/support

In this episode, we welcome back a previous guest and friend, Katie Coleman. This time, we dive into facing one's mortality and how to grapple with the uncertainty of living with a cancer diagnosis. We get into pre-diagnosis thoughts on mortality and how perspectives shifted after diagnosis. Katie also sheds light on some of the silver linings of being forced to confront your own mortality: helping you accept the inevitable, prioritizing what's important, and guiding you to the road of self-discovery.You can listen to (or watch) the previous episode with Katie here.  Key Highlights: Initially a cancer diagnosis triggers fears and uncertainties about mortality, but acceptance of mortality leads to a rewarding change of perspective and even a fulfilling life. Encountering death transforms life by influencing priorities and perspectives. As a result of the shift in perspective, facing your own mortality may negatively impact bonds outside the cancer community. Feelings of isolation and not fitting in are common, particularly in situations dominated by small talk. About our guest: Katie Coleman is a patient advocate who was diagnosed with a rare stage IV kidney cancer in Dec 2020, at the age of 29. She has shared her diagnosis publicly on social media to spread awareness and to advocate for others with kidney cancer and rare diseases. Since being diagnosed, she has also founded a non-profit, started a podcast and is publishing an upcoming memoir. You can read more about Katie and sign up to be notified when her book launches on her website at www.katiekickscancer.com. Key Moments: 2:52: " Through my diagnosis, I've had different prognosis' at different points of time. I'm very thankful for where I'm at currently, and I'm doing really well. But through that process and having to accept and think about my own mortality, some of my mindset around that shifted, which I'm sure we'll get into. My relationship with the thought of being given five years now is very different than it was when I was first diagnosed. But I had to do a lot of that learning on my own. And it's something that I wish more people talked about because it's a very, very hard topic to try to go through on your own and you can get very lost in despair and get yourself stuck in the process." 17:17: “If I could take back my cancer diagnosis, I wouldn't. Even if that means I only have two years of life left, I would not take it back still, because I have lived more in the last two and a half years than I lived in the entire 29 prior to that. And cancer really sucks. And I would probably regret saying that if I wasn't feeling well, I don't really know, but I do know that like where I'm at currently. It's just, it is life changing, but sometimes in all the best ways.”  49:25: “I noticed that I had a harder time listening to people gossip or hearing the everyday little nuances to life that happen… it's so hard to explain because I don't pass judgment on anybody in those situations. That is what life is. I think that's just how people live their life and I don't blame anyone for that. I just think that once you've gone through something like cancer that shifts your perspective, it's hard to sometimes sit in those situations because it feels negative or draining for me." -- Visit the Manta Cares website  Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user's own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have, and should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such conditions. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/manta-cares/support

Did you know that the majority of Americans with cancer are treated in community oncology practices and not at academic medical centers? Community oncologist Dr. Chris Terry joins us this week as we discuss local oncology care benefits and successes, and the importance of physical activity during cancer treatment. Dr. Terry also shares the way he communicates with new cancer patients in his practice to ensure that they fully understand their diagnosis from the very beginning. He also shares his hopes for the future of oncology.  Key Highlights: The pros and cons of local oncology care and academic-affiliated oncology care, as well as what Dr. Terry does to help alleviate the gaps of community care. The importance of physical activity (not only by physical means), but also on the emotional side of the cancer experience.  Cancer 101: Dr. Terry's usual protocol for consulting new cancer patients and his long term hopes for the future of oncology and healthcare. About our guest: Christopher Terry is originally from Pennsylvania, but recently set down roots in Rhode Island with his twin children, wife and two dogs. He is a values-driven physician leader who serves as the Medical Director of Hematology, Oncology and Infusion Services at Sturdy Health, a community-based healthcare organization in Attleboro, Massachusetts. Chris received his medical training in Philadelphia at Thomas Jefferson University and Rhode Island at Brown University. His expertise is in blood disorders and cancer, with a special interest in supportive care, as well as adolescent and young adult cancer. His love for sports led him to start an organization called Athletes Fighting Cancer, which improves the cancer experience through the power of sport by providing a team for support, exercise instruction and resources to strengthen the mind. Chris' hobbies include soccer, golf, music and exploring new places. He enjoys spending time with friends and family, but especially loves being a dad. Link to Dr. Terry's patient orientation sheet, referenced in the podcast. Key Moments: 9:26: “I was initially planning on doing academic medicine and then an opportunity came up for me to practice at a small community-based hospital and it kind of, no pun intended, but it hit home for me. It just felt like a good fit. In addition, I had amazing mentors that I had actually worked with during my training here already. It almost set that example of, you can get really good quality care close to home. You know, there are differences. We don't do clinical trials, but I think it's important for people to be able to get their care even at a local community hospital if it's possible. There is now a lot more collaboration between community-based hospitals and academic centers, even though we're not affiliated with one.” 27:04 “I think it's also important to set expectations. So you may not be able to perform at the level that you are used to, and that's okay. You may need to take more of a break than you're used to, and that's okay also... I also encourage people to listen to their body, find that balance, and understand that you can't always push your limits.” -- Visit the Manta Cares website  Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user's own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have, and should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such conditions. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/manta-cares/support