The Eye Believe Podcast

A cancer diagnosis doesn't just affect the body — it touches every part of life.   In Episode 2 of My 15 Years, released during Mental Health Month, Melody opens up about the emotional reality of the months following her ocular melanoma diagnosis. She shares the fear, grief, and isolation she experienced, how her marriage began to fall apart, and the complex ways she related to her family during that time.   This episode is an honest conversation about mental health, relationships, and the invisible weight that often follows a life-altering diagnosis — especially when that diagnosis is rare.   Looking back 15 years later, Melody also reflects on what she wishes she had known then, offering thoughtful takeaways and perspective shaped by time, healing, and survivorship.   This episode is for anyone navigating the emotional aftermath of diagnosis — and for those supporting someone who is.   Rare Cancer. Resilient Hope. Revolutionary Research.  

Episode 1: My Diagnosis Fifteen years ago, Melody heard the words that would change her life forever: you have ocular melanoma. In the first episode of My 15 Years, Melody — founder and president of A Cure in Sight — shares an overview of her diagnosis and the moments surrounding it. From the initial symptoms and medical appointments to the shock, fear, and uncertainty that followed, this episode begins the story at its starting point. This conversation lays the foundation for the series, offering an honest look at what it's like to receive a rare cancer diagnosis and begin navigating a future filled with unknowns. This episode is for patients, survivors, caregivers, and anyone facing a diagnosis they never expected. Thank you for being here — and for walking this journey with us. Rare Cancer. Resilient Hope. Revolutionary Research.

In this episode of the Eye Believe Podcast, we're joined by Dr. Hadfield, a medical oncologist treating uveal melanoma patients in the Northeast, for an in-depth discussion of the most important takeaways from ESMO 2025. Dr. Hadfield breaks down key study results and emerging data from major trials, including the CHOPIN Trial, Immatics Trial, IDEAYA Trial, and more—offering expert insight into what these findings may mean for patients, caregivers, and the future of uveal melanoma treatment. Links mentioned in this episode Q1 Eye on the Experts Webinar: Eyes on the Chopin Study: What does this mean for patients? https://events.zoom.us/ev/AgpsCnGSA4Hnib_afWXvh5jNq0qqSTvpKhOB8xHg0M9cItAlsoSw~Ah8MbImmpM---YQJIycJ2xa5cdZV0t5y8JSYZGuk2DnZJoO6vsGncOFduA ACIS Physician Finder: https://acureinsight.org/resources/ - click physician finder ACIS Metastatic Treatment Resources (including the July 2025 updated clinical trial summaries of enrolling trials): https://acureinsight.org/metastatic-om/ ASCO Fiber Study 2025: https://ascopubs.org/doi/10.1200/JCO.2025.43.16_suppl.9511 Summary of Studies discussed from attendance at ESMO: (https://acureinsight.org/acis-summary-of-uveal-melanoma-um-presentations-abstracts-and-posters-at-the-annual-meeting-of-the-european-society-for-medical-oncology-esmo-october-17-21-2025-berlin-germany/ ACIS NEWS RELEASES: follow along and subscribe to our newsletter to see the latest updates as we have them. https://acureinsight.org/ocular-melanoma-news/ Whether you're a patient, advocate, or clinician, this episode provides a clear and accessible overview of the latest research shaping the uveal melanoma landscape. Tune in to learn what's new, what's promising, and where the field may be headed next.

In this episode of the Eye Believe Podcast, we're joined by Sophie Cantu, who shares her personal experience participating in a TIL (Tumor-Infiltrating Lymphocyte) clinical trial for ocular melanoma.   After previous treatments were unsuccessful, Sophie enrolled in the TIL trial—and saw encouraging results, including tumor shrinkage. She speaks candidly about what led her to the trial, what the experience was like, and how it changed her outlook moving forward.   Sophie's story offers hope to patients and families navigating treatment decisions and highlights the importance of continued research and clinical trials in advancing options for ocular melanoma.   Tune in to hear Sophie's journey, her perspective on perseverance, and why sharing patient experiences matters.   NCT pages for trials mentioned: TIL TRIAL - https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT03467516 IDEAYA TRIAL - https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05987332 RP2 TRIAL - https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06581406   Sophie Socials: https://www.facebook.com/SophieStevens9 https://www.instagram.com/sophiegstevenscantu/

Mental Health With A Dash Of Humor with Frank King | The Eye Believe Podcast   In this powerful episode of the Eye Believe Podcast, we sit down with Frank King, the Mental Health Comedian, for an honest, eye-opening, and surprisingly hopeful conversation about mental health.   Frank shares practical guidance on how to start conversations about mental health, key signs to look for in people experiencing depression or suicidal thoughts, and—most importantly—what we can actually do to help. Drawing from his own lived experience and years of advocacy, Frank shows how humor, empathy, and listening can truly save lives.   This episode is for anyone who wants to support a loved one, a colleague, or even themselves—and isn't sure where to begin.  

In this episode of the Eye Believe Podcast, we are joined by Carol McColl, an ocular melanoma patient of more than seven years, who offers a powerful and deeply human perspective on collective grief and collective hope.   Carol shares how community and connection play a vital role in navigating the grief and loss that often accompany an OM diagnosis. Through shared experiences, meaningful conversations, and mutual support, patients can find purpose, develop resilience, and cultivate hope—even on the most difficult days.   As you listen, we invite you to reflect and engage: share an inspiring quote, a favorite book, or a song that brings you comfort and light when things feel heavy. Together, these small moments of connection can make a meaningful difference.   As Carol beautifully reminds us: “Meaning fuels hope, and hope fuels strength and courage, which fuels resilience and perseverance.”   Tune in and be part of this conversation about hope, healing, and the power of community.   Carol's Social Media: https://www.facebook.com/carol.g.mccoll   Drippy The Sad Raincloud: https://abjustforyou.com/product/gwyn-morgan-the-tale-of-the-sad-rain-cloud/   Other great book we recommend- Mans Search For Meaning by Viktor Frankl- https://amzn.to/3L073cL Try Softer by Aundi Kobler- https://amzn.to/4bg6J43 Strong Like Water by Aundi Kobler- https://amzn.to/4aGTVnf Emotionally Healthy Spirituality by Peter Scazzaro- https://amzn.to/4qffujO  

In this powerful episode of the Eye Believe Podcast, we're joined by Megan Morelli, who shares the story of her mother, Tami Sulistyo, an ocular melanoma patient whose legacy continues to inspire meaningful change.   Following Tami's passing, Megan and her family found purposeful ways to honor her life, strength, and impact—including the creation of the Tami Sulistyo Memorial Research Grant. Through this grant, Tami's legacy lives on by supporting vital ocular melanoma research and helping move the field forward.   In this conversation, Megan discusses: How her family transformed grief into action What it means to create a memorial research grant Practical and impactful ways individuals and families can honor loved ones while advancing medical research Whether you're seeking inspiration, guidance on making a difference, or ways to honor someone you love, this episode offers heartfelt insight and hope.  

In this inspiring episode of the Eye Believe Podcast, we welcome author and advocate Rachel Sindaco, whose journey through Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and Ocular Melanoma (OM) reshaped her life in unimaginable ways—and ultimately saved it. Rachel maintains a remarkable positive outlook, openly sharing how she considers herself lucky to have MS. It was her MS diagnosis that led to increased medical monitoring, allowing her ocular melanoma to be caught early—a discovery that may have saved her life. Without MS, Rachel believes her cancer might have gone undetected until it was too late. Her book, From a Kick in the Head to a Kick in the Ass: My Involuntary Journey with Multiple Sclerosis and Ocular Melanoma, is a candid, often humorous, and deeply moving memoir about navigating serious illness, reframing adversity, and finding gratitude in the most unexpected places. This conversation is a powerful reminder that perspective matters, early detection saves lives, and even the hardest diagnoses can carry unexpected gifts.

Welcome to Session 1 of the Eye Believe Survivorship Seminar 2025! This 8:00 AM session features renowned ocular oncologist Dr. MATERIN (Duke Health) as he presents “Yesterday, Today & Tomorrow in Ocular Melanoma.” In this powerful opening session, Dr. Materin walks attendees through:

Eye On Research | Session 2: Adjuvant Therapies – What's New Today? (And What Can You Do About It!?) Join us for Session 2 of Eye On Research, presented by A Cure In Sight

In this episode, we interview Danny Powell, an ocular melanoma (OM) patient whose tumor was identified early thanks to his eye doctor noticing a change and acting quickly. Danny explains his diagnosis, his treatment with brachytherapy, and how he later discovered that his grandmother also had OM—an extremely rare family connection. This prompted genetic testing, which revealed that Danny carries a BAP1 gene mutation. He discusses what that means for his ongoing care, his decision to join a clinical study, and the importance of regular surveillance scans. Whether you're an OM patient, caregiver, or medical professional, this episode provides practical insight into early detection, genetic risk factors, and patient involvement in research.

November is National Hospice and Palliative Care Month. Join A Cure in Sight, an ocular melanoma foundation, for an insightful conversation with Suzanne O'Brien, RN, on the important distinctions between palliative care and hospice care. In this episode, Suzanne sheds light on the significant gaps in end-of-life education that leave many families overwhelmed and unsupported during some of the most challenging moments of their lives. As the Founder & CEO of Doulagivers Institute, Suzanne B. O'Brien has dedicated her life to increasing access to high-quality end-of-life education and compassionate care. Drawing from her firsthand experience at the bedside of more than 1,000 patients as a hospice nurse and palliative care professional, she has created free trainings and resources to empower both caregivers and practitioners worldwide. https://doulagivers.com/

November is Men's Health Month, and we're diving into a topic that doesn't get talked about enough — the emotional side of men's health. In this powerful episode, we sit down with Pervis Taylor, award-winning life coach, author, and mental health advocate, to explore how men can better navigate the challenges of emotional well-being, especially in the face of serious diagnoses like ocular melanoma. Pervis shares his insights on breaking stigma, building resilience, and learning to express and process emotions in healthy, empowering ways. His compassionate and practical approach reminds us that strength begins with self-awareness — and that healing is both physical and emotional. Join us as we discuss:

How To Leverage AI In Your Diagnosis Journey with Chris Donaldson | The Eye Believe Podcast Meet Chris Donaldson, an ocular melanoma (OM) patient and AI professional who's redefining what it means to take control of your health journey. When faced with conflicting medical opinions at the onset of his diagnosis, Chris turned to a tool far more powerful than Google—artificial intelligence—to help guide his decisions and find clarity in the chaos. In this inspiring episode, Chris shares how AI played a pivotal role in his diagnosis and ongoing care, helping him access cutting-edge information, discover new treatment options, and feel empowered throughout his metastatic OM journey. Join us as we explore:

In this inspiring episode of the Eye Believe Podcast

In this heartfelt episode of the Eye Believe Podcast

In this inspiring episode of the Eye Believe Podcast

In this compelling episode of the Eye Believe Podcast

In this powerful episode of the Eye Believe Podcast

Eye On Research | Session 1: Metastatic Treatments Join us for Session 1 of Eye On Research, presented by A Cure In Sight

In this inspiring episode of the Eye Believe Podcast

Eye On The Expert: Taking Charge of Eye Health with Dr. Dorothy Hitchmoth Dr. Hitchmoth shares expert insights on the powerful role that diet and healthy lifestyle habits play in protecting your vision and promoting lifelong eye health. From practical nutrition tips to daily habits that safeguard your sight, you'll learn actionable strategies you can start using today to take charge of your eye health and reduce your risk of vision loss. In this webinar, you'll discover: How diet influences your eye health and overall well-being The best foods and nutrients for protecting your vision Daily lifestyle habits that can make a difference for your eyes Preventative steps to preserve vision as you age Whether you're living with an eye condition, at risk for vision loss, or simply want to keep your eyes healthy, this session offers valuable guidance you won't want to miss. Links- How Not To Die by Michael Gerger- https://amzn.to/3HVbUKx The Complete Health Eye Health and Nutrition Guide by Laurie Capogna- https://amzn.to/4g0TvZC Visionary Kitchen by Sandra Young- https://amzn.to/466swbs Fat Chance by Robert Lustig- https://amzn.to/47KjEJN Carlson Cod Liver Oil- https://amzn.to/45BLaIf Ared's Vitamins- https://amzn.to/41VtfJZ Ared's 2 Vitamins- https://amzn.to/4n7Rzkl   #EyeOnTheExpert #EyeHealth #VisionCare #ACureInSight #DrDorothyHitchmoth #NutritionForEyeHealth

We're honored to welcome Dr. Carol Shields, one of the world's leading ocular oncologists and Director of the Oncology Service at Wills Eye Hospital, to the Eye Believe Podcast by A Cure In Sight.

Meet Ashley Morgan — a true rarity in the ocular melanoma community. Before her diagnosis, Ashley was already navigating life completely blind. In this powerful and inspiring conversation, Ashley shares her extraordinary journey, resilience, and the realities of facing a cancer diagnosis without sight.   Her story is one of courage, hope, and the unwavering belief that even in darkness, you can still shine.

Step onto the mat with us for a powerful new episode of the Eye Believe Podcast as we welcome Marco Moreno, a Gracie Jiu-Jitsu black belt and owner of Mastery Jiu-Jitsu Academy in Leesburg, Virginia.   In honor of Men's Health Month, Marco joins us to talk about the vital role of physical activity, stress management, and community connection in improving men's health.   From discipline on the mat to confidence off it, this episode is packed with wisdom for anyone looking to strengthen their body, mindset, and life. Whether you're a martial arts enthusiast or just looking for practical ways to improve your well-being—this one's for you.  

In honor of Men's Health Month, we're diving deep into a conversation that's often overlooked: men's mental health.   This week on the Eye Believe Podcast, we're joined by Alexander Vasquez, an advocate and voice for men's emotional wellness. He opens up about his personal journey, breaking the silence around mental struggles, and why it's time we redefine strength—not as stoicism, but as vulnerability and connection.  

In this episode, our hosts, Megan and Danet, sit down with special guest Ashley McCrary, founder of the Eye on Grace Foundation.

Welcome back to The Eye Believe Podcast!