Triad Cancer Connection Podcast

Our survivorship topic speaker today is Dara Kurtz. Dara is a breast cancer survivor, author of Crush Cancer, and survivorship mentor. As of March 2025, she is also Cancer Services' Survivor Engagement Coordinator! Listen to our interview with Dara to hear: - The most significant mental or emotional shift she experienced after finishing treatment - How she began to rebuild identity after cancer - What tools or habits have helped her the most in navigating life post-cancer - The role that community played in her healing

Our May Survivorship Special Topic is Oncology Dental Health with expert Dr. Shaiba Sandhu, Oral Medicine and Orofacial Pain Specialist for High Point University. She cares for patients at Novant Cancer Institute. Dr. Sandhu addresses several questions including: What is an “oral medicine oncology specialist”? What's the role of oral health for oncology care? Is there a need for a break from cancer medications before dental work? What kinds of issues are people typically seeing an oncology dental health specialist for? Do people have to be referred to see you? What do you like about the work you do? What advice do you have for managing oral health during and after treatment? If someone wants an oncology oral health consultation, how can they get on your schedule?

Our expert speaker this month is Dr Rachel Baldwin, integrative medicine physician for Novant Health Cancer Institute in Winston-Salem, NC. Dr Baldwin answers Julie's questions including: What's the role of integrative medicine for oncology care? What kinds of issues are people typically seeing you for? people have to be referred to see you? Do you think a change in diet or lifestyle will shrink the cancer and keep it from growing back without chemotherapy? What advice do you have for managing cancer related side effects?  

January 2024 Survivorship Special Topic: Body Image and Nutrition for your Nervous System Today's episode is the first survivorship special topic for 2024! Our expert speaker today is Debra Benfield, a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, Certified Eating Disorder Specialist and Certified Yoga Teacher. Debra is the founder of Body in Mind Nutrition, a body positive nutrition therapy practice here in Winston Salem. You can find Debra on IG @agingbodyliberation and her website has more podcast interviews and resources.  https://www.debrabenfield.com/media. We decided to do this topic because first of all, it's January! We're all thinking of a New Year and what we might want to reset in life. Obviously, some of the things we'd really like to reset, we have no control over. However, how we cope with cancer and the impact it has on our lives is something we can influence, and the nervous system is something that is very connected to our mental health and well-being.

Today's episode is the last in our 3 part series sponsored by Athena's Run for GYN Cancer. The mission of Athena's Run is to celebrate, honor and lift up the women affected by gynecologic cancers. They increase public awareness about gynecologic cancers and raise funds to support education, advocacy, care and research. Their vision is to end gynecologic cancers through prevention, early detection and effective treatment.​​​   In this episode, we talk with GYN cancer survivor, Kris Ryan, about life during and after cancer. Episode 1 focuses on prevent, and early detection. Episode 2 focuses on treatment and managing side effects. Episode 3 highlights GYN cancer survivorship.   We hope you find this episode informative. Please share with the women in your life!   Suggested Resource: Foundation for Women's Cancer - https://foundationforwomenscancer.org/  

Today's episode is the 2nd  in a 3 part series sponsored by Athena's Run for GYN Cancer. Our expert guest is Robin Atkinson, oncology certified nurse and Gynecologic Cancer Nurse Navigator for the Novant Cancer Institute.  The mission of Athena's Run is to celebrate, honor and lift up the women affected by gynecologic cancers. They increase public awareness about gynecologic cancers and raise funds to support education, advocacy, care and research. Their vision is to end gynecologic cancers through prevention, early detection and effective treatment.​​​ This 3 part series will cover just that! Episode 1 focuses on prevent, and early detection. Episode 2 focuses on treatment and managing side effects. Episode 3 highlights GYN cancer survivorship. We hope you find this episode informative. Please share with the women in your life! Suggested Resource: Foundation for Women's Cancer - https://foundationforwomenscancer.org/  

Check out our last survivorship expert interview for 2023 with expert Dr. Ken E. Bodek, a cardio-oncologist with Novant Health Cardiology. We decided to do this topic because high blood pressure affects 50% of the US adult population, and cancer survivors are affected at a higher rate and the effects can be more harmful. This will be helpful information for everyone!

Today's episode is the first in a 3 part series sponsored by Athena's Run for GYN Cancer. The mission of Athena's Run is to celebrate, honor and lift up the women affected by gynecologic cancers. They increase public awareness about gynecologic cancers and raise funds to support education, advocacy, care and research. Their vision is to end gynecologic cancers through prevention, early detection and effective treatment.​​​ This 3 part series will cover just that!   Episode 1 focuses on prevent, and early detection. Episode 2 focuses on treatment and managing side effects. Episode 3 highlights GYN cancer survivorship.   We hope you find this episode informative. Please share with the women in your life!

Getting a cancer diagnosis for the first time can be scary and overwhelming, and you may feel like you don't know where to start. And for those who are close to the end of active treatment, or done with active treatment, that's a scary time too when you're not seeing your cancer care team every week! This month's interview aims to help listeners know where to go, who to talk to, what to ask, and what resources to keep in your toolbox. Cancer Services has dozens of resources for patients to provide support and assistance throughout this journey, and there's even more organizations and programs out within the community that we'll discuss. We are lucky to have three experts on this topic this month, Melissa Lyle-Nipper, Felicia Dobson and Lindy Milligan. Melissa is our Patient Advocate Director here at Cancer Services and has a master's in social work, Felicia is one of our fantastic Patient Advocators, and Lindy is our survivorship coordinator and a breast cancer survivor.   Resources discussed: Cancer Services Patient Advocates - 336-760-9983; www.cancerservicesonline.org Survivor Programs: www.cancerservicesonline.org/register Fund Finder https://fundfinder.panfoundation.org/ Cancer Care www.cancercare.org Caring Bridge: https://www.caringbridge.org/ Livestrong at the YMCA: https://ymcanwnc.org/health-and-fitness/community-health-programs/livestrong-at-the-ymca

Today's interview is with Melanie Sisk, a local metastatic breast cancer thriver who is also a volunteer with Cancer Services and is the group leader for our local Metastatic Breast Cancer group in the Triad area of North Carolina. To contact Melanie about the group, email piedmonttriadmbc@yahoo.com

We are lucky to have an expert on this topic this month.  Sarah Jolly is a Certified Marketplace Navigator with NC Navigator Consortium and works for Legal Aid in Forsyth County. We have a lot of great information to share on this topic and hope you find it helpful!  Resources: For Medicare Advice: NC SHIIP – 855-408-1212 For Marketplace Assistance: NC Navigator 800 number: 855-733-3711 www.ncnavigator.net à get help tab

Our expert speaker this month is cardio-oncologist Dr. Kenneth Bodek with Novant Health. For a reflection guide or to register for the discussion group, go to www.cancerservicesonline.org/specialtopic.

  Our expert speakers this month are Stephanie Rehm, a physical therapist and Claire Salmond, an occupational therapist, both with Novant Health. For a reflection guide or to register for the discussion group, go to www.cancerservicesonline.org/specialtopic.

Our expert speakers this month are Lora White, RD, CSO, LDN and Amber Thomas, RD, CSO. We have a lot of great information to share on this topic and hope you find it helpful! For a reflection guide or to register for the discussion group, go to www.cancerservicesonline.org/specialtopic. Lora White: lora.white@novanthealth.org Amber Thomas: https://cancernutritionsolutions.com/about Julie Lanford: https://cancerdietitian.com/

Our expert speakers this month are Claudia U. Koliscak, MS CCC-SLP and Sara Bridges, LCSW. We have a lot of great information to share on this topic and hope you find it helpful! For a reflection guide or to register for the discussion group, go to www.cancerservicesonline.org/specialtopic. Sara Bridges: sebridges@novanthealth.org | Claudia Koliscak: ckoliscak@novanthealth.org | 336-397-6029

Each month Cancer Services will post a special topic video with experts in a variety of areas relating to cancer survivorship and caregiving.These videos will be posted on Cancer Services' website and youtube channel and the audio will be here on our podcast. Find the video recordings at www.cancerservicesonline.org/specialtopic Today's special topic is: Priorities and Well-Being: Maintaining Focus on What's Really Important Part 2 Our expert speaker today is Kris Ryan, cancer survivor and certified coach who spent her career in Human Resources and Leadership Development before being diagnosed with endometrial cancer in December of 2017. After beating cancer she refocused her life to wellness and cancer survivor coaching. Please download the January special topic reflection guide at https://cancerservicesonline.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/January-Reflection-Guide.pdf All survivors and caregivers are invited to join us for our survivorship special topic discussion group on the 4th Tuesday of January (January 24)! You can choose in person (1-2pm at Cancer Services office on Maplewood Ave) or virtual (7-8pm via zoom). We do ask that you register so that we know to expect you. Just go to www.cancerservicesonline.org/register and sign up for the special topic discussion.

Each month Cancer Services will post a special topic video with experts in a variety of areas relating to cancer survivorship and caregiving.These videos will be posted on Cancer Services' website and youtube channel and the audio will be here on our podcast. Find the video recordings at www.cancerservicesonline.org/specialtopic. Today's special topic is: Priorities and Well-Being: Maintaining Focus on What's Really Important. Our expert speakers today are Lisa Rainwater, an oncology counselor for Atrium Health Comprehensive Cancer Center, and DeCarlos West, a social worker for Novant Cancer Institute. Please download the January special topic reflection guide at https://cancerservicesonline.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/January-Reflection-Guide.pdf All survivors and caregivers are invited to join us for our survivorship special topic discussion group on the 4th Tuesday of January (January 24)! You can choose in person (1-2pm at Cancer Services office on Maplewood Ave) or virtual (7-8pm via zoom). We do ask that you register so that we know to expect you. Just go to www.cancerservicesonline.org/register and sign up for the special topic discussion.

Cultivate an Attitude of Gratitude! This is the final episode in our 5 week program designed to guide you into a habit of gratitude in order to enhance your well-being during and after cancer treatment. We hope you've enjoyed the series! In this episode Dr. Torelli shares advice on how people can focus on gratitude during tough times. We also discuss how people can maintain a practice of gratitude going forward. The following resources were shared: Dr. Torelli Guided Meditation for Chemo. A gratitude exercise that to be used for cancer patients receiving chemotherapy. https://youtu.be/0Nf_98CIjl0   BOOKS: Thanks! By Robert Emmons - https://www.amazon.com/Thanks-Practicing-Gratitude-Make-Happier/dp/0547085737 The Mindful Path to Self Compassion by Germer - https://www.amazon.com/Mindful-Path-Self-Compassion-Yourself-Destructive/dp/1593859759/   WEBSITES: Kristin Neff Information – https://self-compassion.org/ https://gratefulness.org/ Mindful Eating Webinar Recording from January - https://cancerdietitian.com/2022/01/getting-started-with-mindful-eating-webinar-recording-and-resources.html Check out one or more of Dr. Torreli's videos. Find them here: Session 1 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eAnH6TtvlJo&ab_channel=GreatfullyWell Session 2 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ov-CDQqNzW0&ab_channel=GreatfullyWell Session 3 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4GG1HjNkU1U&ab_channel=GreatfullyWell Session 4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wzj-bcPASsc&t=755s&ab_channel=GreatfullyWell Session 5 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRbBhLitJYk&t=3s&ab_channel=GreatfullyWell   Stay up to date with Cancer Services programs and events on our news page! https://cancerservicesonline.org/events/

Cultivate an Attitude of Gratitude! This is the final episode in our 5 week program designed to guide you into a habit of gratitude in order to enhance your well-being during and after cancer treatment. We hope you've enjoyed the series! In this episode Dr. Torelli shares advice on how people can focus on gratitude during tough times. We also discuss how people can maintain a practice of gratitude going forward. The following resources were shared: Dr. Torelli Guided Meditation for Chemo. A gratitude exercise that to be used for cancer patients receiving chemotherapy. https://youtu.be/0Nf_98CIjl0 BOOKS: Thanks! By Robert Emmons - https://www.amazon.com/Thanks-Practicing-Gratitude-Make-Happier/dp/0547085737 The Mindful Path to Self Compassion by Germer - https://www.amazon.com/Mindful-Path-Self-Compassion-Yourself-Destructive/dp/1593859759/ WEBSITES: Kristin Neff Information – https://self-compassion.org/ https://gratefulness.org/ Mindful Eating Webinar Recording from January - https://cancerdietitian.com/2022/01/getting-started-with-mindful-eating-webinar-recording-and-resources.html. Mindfulness Sessions with Lisa Rainwater – Virtual Caregivers 15-Minute Mindfulness Recharge Tuesdays & Thursdays, 1:00pm START DATE: 8.1.22 Join CPSP's Lisa Rainwater, PhD, MA, LCMHCA, GCP for 15 minutes of mindfulness practice to help you get through your day with renewed spirit, clarity, and energy. Guided meditations, breathing exercises, gratitude reflections, and light body movements release tension, help ground you in the here and now, and improve concentration. To register for the group, call Lisa at (336) 716-0327 or email her at lrainwat@wakehealth.edu.  Lisa will be offering a session for survivors in the fall. Email her for dates/details! Check out one or more of Dr. Torreli's videos. Find them here: Session 1 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eAnH6TtvlJo&ab_channel=GreatfullyWell Session 2 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ov-CDQqNzW0&ab_channel=GreatfullyWell Session 3 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4GG1HjNkU1U&ab_channel=GreatfullyWell Session 4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wzj-bcPASsc&t=755s&ab_channel=GreatfullyWell Session 5 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRbBhLitJYk&t=3s&ab_channel=GreatfullyWell   Stay up to date with Cancer Services programs and events on our news page! https://cancerservicesonline.org/events/  

This is week 4 in our 5 week program designed to guide you into a habit of gratitude in order to enhance your well-being during and after cancer treatment. This program is open to patients/survivors as well as caregivers. This program is designed for you to do “on your own.” Let us know if you have any questions! To register go to: https://cancerservicesonline.org/gratitude/ During week 4 Dr. Torelli shares about the following: Refresher on  self acceptance/self compassion. What is well-being and mindfulness? Why is it important? What are some ways to practice mindfulness? Here's our Gratitude Action step(s) for this week 1. Find moments for mindfulness at least once a day 2. Continue your gratitude journal!    Prompts for this week. Use one, or more, each day! 1 Spend a few minutes focusing on your 5 senses and write down how you can you be more mindful of each. 2. What about your career or job are you grateful for? 3. What things made you laugh out loud? 4. What physical characteristics are you most grateful for? 5. Name 3 talents or qualities you have that you are grateful for.  

Cultivate an Attitude of Gratitude!   This is the final episode in our 5 week program designed to guide you into a habit of gratitude in order to enhance your well-being during and after cancer treatment. We hope you've enjoyed the series! In this episode Dr. Torelli shares advice on how people can focus on gratitude during tough times. We also discuss how people can maintain a practice of gratitude going forward.   The following resources were shared:   BOOKS: Thanks! By Robert Emmons - https://www.amazon.com/Thanks-Practicing-Gratitude-Make-Happier/dp/0547085737 The Mindful Path to Self Compassion by Germer - https://www.amazon.com/Mindful-Path-Self-Compassion-Yourself-Destructive/dp/1593859759/   WEBSITES: Kristin Neff Information – https://self-compassion.org/ https://gratefulness.org/   Mindful Eating Webinar Recording from January - https://cancerdietitian.com/2022/01/getting-started-with-mindful-eating-webinar-recording-and-resources.html.   Mindfulness Power Hour weekly session starting March 29. Register here: https://cancerservicesonline.org/marchregistration/   Check out one, or more, of Dr. Torreli's videos. Find them here: Session 1 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eAnH6TtvlJo&ab_channel=GreatfullyWell Session 2 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ov-CDQqNzW0&ab_channel=GreatfullyWell Session 3 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4GG1HjNkU1U&ab_channel=GreatfullyWell Session 4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wzj-bcPASsc&t=755s&ab_channel=GreatfullyWell Session 5 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRbBhLitJYk&t=3s&ab_channel=GreatfullyWell   Stay up to date with Cancer Services programs and events on our news page! https://cancerservicesonline.org/events/  

Cultivate an Attitude of Gratitude! This is the final episode in our 5 week program designed to guide you into a habit of gratitude in order to enhance your well-being during and after cancer treatment. We hope you've enjoyed the series! In this episode Dr. Torelli shares advice on how people can focus on gratitude even during the stress of the holidays, and especially as some clients may be facing the holidays while also dealing with cancer treatment? We also discuss how people can maintain a practice of gratitude going forward. The following resources were shared: BOOKS: Thanks! By Robert Emmons - https://www.amazon.com/Thanks-Practicing-Gratitude-Make-Happier/dp/0547085737 The Mindful Path to Self Compassion by Germer - https://www.amazon.com/Mindful-Path-Self-Compassion-Yourself-Destructive/dp/1593859759/ WEBSITES: Kristin Neff Information – https://self-compassion.org/ https://gratefulness.org/ Check out one or more of Dr. Torreli's videos. Find them here: Session 1 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eAnH6TtvlJo&ab_channel=GreatfullyWell Session 2 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ov-CDQqNzW0&ab_channel=GreatfullyWell Session 3 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4GG1HjNkU1U&ab_channel=GreatfullyWell Session 4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wzj-bcPASsc&t=755s&ab_channel=GreatfullyWell Session 5 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRbBhLitJYk&t=3s&ab_channel=GreatfullyWell Mindful Eating Webinar Julie will be hosting a Mindful Eating webinar on Jan 20th at 7:30pm. If you would like to register for that, here's the registration page. Our special guest will be Dietitian Jane Anderson, who works at Body in Mind Nutrition in Winston-Salem, NC. Next Attitude of Gratitude – Enter your information on our gratitude webpage to be notified of the next time we offer this series! https://cancerservicesonline.org/gratitude/ Mindfulness Power Hour – Offered in Spring 2022. Stay updated with Cancer Services' news page - https://cancerservicesonline.org/events/

This is week 4 in our 5 week program designed to guide you into a habit of gratitude in order to enhance your well-being during and after cancer treatment. This program is open to patients/survivors as well as caregivers. This program is designed for you to do “on your own.” Let us know if you have any questions! To register go to: https://cancerservicesonline.org/gratitude/ During week 4 Dr. Torelli shares about the following: Refresher on  self acceptance/self compassion. What is well-being and mindfulness? Why is it important? What are some ways to practice mindfulness? Here's our Gratitude Action step(s) for this week 1. Find moments for mindfulness at least once a day 2. Continue your gratitude journal!    Prompts for this week. Use one, or more, each day! 1. Spend a few minutes focusing on your 5 senses and write down how you can you be more mindful of each. 2. What about your career or job are you grateful for? 3. What things made you laugh out loud? 4. What physical characteristics are you most grateful for? 5. Name 3 talents or qualities you have that you are grateful for.

Cultivate an Attitude of Gratitude! This is week 3 in our 5 week program designed to guide you into a habit of gratitude in order to enhance your well-being during and after cancer treatment. This program is open to patients/survivors as well as caregivers. All participants receive an email once a week (on Mondays, starting November 1st) with a link to the podcast interview regarding the week's topic. We will also have a “Gratitude Action Step” each week, and participants will keep a gratitude journal. This program is designed for you to do “on your own.” Let us know if you have any questions! To register go to: https://cancerservicesonline.org/gratitude/ During week 3 Dr. Torelli shares about the following: What is self acceptance? Why is it important? How do I move towards self acceptance? Are there people who get in the way of self acceptance? Here's our Gratitude Action step for this week. Use one or more of these prompts each day! 1. What do you really appreciate about your life? 2. What has been the highlight of your day today? 3. What things do you own that make life easier? 4. List 5 things you love about your home. 5. What about nature are you grateful for?  

Cultivate an Attitude of Gratitude! This is week 2 in our 5 week program designed to guide you into a habit of gratitude in order to enhance your well-being during and after cancer treatment. This program is open to patients/survivors as well as caregivers. All participants receive an email once a week (on Mondays, starting November 1st) with a link to the podcast interview regarding the week's topic. We will also have a “Gratitude Action Step” each week, and participants will keep a gratitude journal. This program is designed for you to do “on your own.” Let us know if you have any questions! To register go to: https://cancerservicesonline.org/gratitude/ During week 2 Dr. Torelli shares about the following: Besides a gratitude journal, what are other ways that people can practice gratitude? Here's our Gratitude Action step for this week. Answer one or more of these each day: 1.     What in your life are you happy to have stopped doing or let go of? Or what phase are you glad to not be in? 2.     What are irritations in your life that could use a change in perspective? Can you take less seriously, find humor in? How can that change have a positive effect on your life? 3.     List something good that has recently caught your attention to make you realize how fortunate you are. 4.     Name 3 things that always put a smile on your face. 5.     What is the most beautiful place you have been to? Relive being in this place now.

Cultivate an Attitude of Gratitude!   We are launching a special 5 week program designed to guide you into a habit of gratitude in order to enhance your well-being during and after cancer treatment.  This program is open to patients/survivors as well as caregivers. It will take you through November! The program begins on November 1st. All participants will receive an email once a week (on Mondays, starting Nov 1st) with a link to the podcast interview regarding the week's topic. We will also have a “Gratitude Action Step” each week, and participants will keep a gratitude journal. This program is designed for you to do “on your own.” Let us know if you have any questions! To register go to: https://cancerservicesonline.org/gratitude/ During week 1 Dr. Torelli shares about the following: What is gratitude? How can gratitude help during or after cancer treatment? What are the most important things to do when it comes to a lifestyle of gratitude? Example of how someone can reframe their perspective using gratitude.   WEEK 1 ACTION STEP: Start your gratitude journal! Prompts for this week. Use one, or more, each day! 1.     Write down one good thing that happened to you today. 2.     What are five personality traits that you are most thankful for? 3.     What about your upbringing are you most grateful for? 4.     Name 5 things you are doing well currently. 5.     What family members are you most grateful for? Write about what makes them special.

This is the final episode in our 5 week program designed to guide you into a habit of gratitude in order to enhance your well-being during and after cancer treatment! During our final episode Dr. Torelli recaps much of what we discussed in the series including: Who is responsible for our physical treatment vs. emotional and behavioral contributions to well-being. How we might recognize our emotional triggers and responses. Suggested ways to continue changing our habits to improve health and well-being. Here’s our Gratitude Action steps for this week: 1. Continue your gratitude journal! 2. Check out one or more of Dr. Torreli's videos. Find them here: Session 1 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eAnH6TtvlJo&ab_channel=GreatfullyWell Session 2 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ov-CDQqNzW0&ab_channel=GreatfullyWell Session 3 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4GG1HjNkU1U&ab_channel=GreatfullyWell Session 4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wzj-bcPASsc&t=755s&ab_channel=GreatfullyWell Session 5 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRbBhLitJYk&t=3s&ab_channel=GreatfullyWell 3. Check out Kristen Neff's information and books - https://self-compassion.org/ 4. Stay updated on upcoming programs to enhance well-being! https://cancerservicesonline.org/events/  

It's Great When You're Grateful! This is week 4 in our 5 week program designed to guide you into a habit of gratitude in order to enhance your well-being during and after cancer treatment. This program is open to patients/survivors as well as caregivers. All participants receive an email once a week (on Mondays, starting March 1st) with a link to the podcast interview regarding the week’s topic. We will also have a “Gratitude Action Step” each week, and participants will keep a gratitude journal. This program is designed for you to do “on your own”, or with a virtual group meeting once a week, on Thursday evenings at 7pm. Let us know if you have any questions! To register go to: https://cancerservicesonline.org/gratitude/ During week 4 Dr. Torelli shares about the following: Refresher on self acceptance/self compassion. What is well-being and mindfulness? Why is it important? Can spirituality, faith and spiritual practices be mindfulness? What are some ways to practice mindfulness? Here’s our Gratitude Action step for this week: Continue your gratitude journal! Prompts for this week. Use one, or more, each day! 1 Spend a few minutes focusing on your 5 senses and write down how you can you be more mindful of each. 2. What about your career or job are you grateful for? 3. What things made you laugh out loud? 4. What physical characteristics are you most grateful for? 5. Name 3 talents or qualities you have that you are grateful for.  

Life's Great When You're Grateful! This is week 3 in our 5 week program designed to guide you into a habit of gratitude in order to enhance your well-being during and after cancer treatment. This program is open to patients/survivors as well as caregivers. All participants receive an email once a week (on Mondays, starting March 1st) with a link to the podcast interview regarding the week’s topic. We will also have a “Gratitude Action Step” each week, and participants will keep a gratitude journal. This program is designed for you to do “on your own”, or with a virtual group meeting once a week, on Thursday evenings at 7pm. Let us know if you have any questions! To register go to: https://cancerservicesonline.org/gratitude/ During week 3 Dr. Torelli shares about the following: What is self acceptance? Why is it important? How do I move towards self acceptance? Are there people who get in the way of self acceptance? Here’s our Gratitude Action step for this week Use one, or more, of these prompts each day! 1. What do you really appreciate about your life? 2. What has been the highlight of your day today? 3. What things do you own that make life easier? 4. List 5 things you love about your home. 5. What about nature are you grateful for?  

It's Great When You're Grateful! This is week 2 in our 5 week program designed to guide you into a habit of gratitude in order to enhance your well-being during and after cancer treatment. This program is open to patients/survivors as well as caregivers. All participants receive an email once a week (on Mondays, starting March 1st) with a link to the podcast interview regarding the week’s topic. We will also have a “Gratitude Action Step” each week, and participants will keep a gratitude journal. This program is designed for you to do “on your own”, or with a virtual group meeting once a week, on Thursday evenings at 7pm. Let us know if you have any questions! To register go to: https://cancerservicesonline.org/gratitude/ During week 2 Dr. Torelli shares about the following: Besides a gratitude journal, what are other ways that people can practice gratitude? Here’s our Gratitude Action step for this week. Answer one or more of these each day: 1.     What in your life are you happy to have stopped doing or let go of? Or what phase are you glad to not be in? 2.     What are irritations in your life that could use a change in perspective? Can you take less seriously, find humor in? How can that change have a positive effect on your life? 3.     List something good that has recently caught your attention to make you realize how fortunate you are. 4.     Name 3 things that always put a smile on your face. 5.     What is the most beautiful place you have been to? Relive being in this place now.  

It's Great When You're Grateful!   We are launching a special 5 week program designed to guide you into a habit of gratitude in order to enhance your well-being during and after cancer treatment.  This program is open to patients/survivors as well as caregivers. The program begins on March 1st! All participants will receive an email once a week (on Mondays, starting March 1st) with a link to the podcast interview regarding the week’s topic. We will also have a “Gratitude Action Step” each week, and participants will keep a gratitude journal. This program is designed for you to do “on your own”, or with a virtual group meeting once a week, on Thursday evenings at 7pm. Let us know if you have any questions! To register go to: https://cancerservicesonline.org/gratitude/ During week 1 Dr. Torelli shares about the following: What is gratitude? How can gratitude help during or after cancer treatment? What are the most important things to do when it comes to a lifestyle of gratitude? Example of how someone can reframe their perspective using gratitude.   WEEK 1 ACTION STEP: Start your gratitude journal! Prompts for this week. Use one, or more, each day! 1.     Write down one good thing that happened to you today. 2.     What are five personality traits that you are most thankful for? 3.     What about your upbringing are you most grateful for? 4.     Name 5 things you are doing well currently. 5.     What family members are you most grateful for? Write about what makes them special.

We are here today with Dr. Stacy Wentworth, medical director of cancer survivorship at Wake Forest Baptist Health to talk about the COVID-19 Vaccine. We cover the following questions: - What do cancer patients and survivors need to know about the COVID-19 vaccine? - What's the best way to get scheduled for one? - Are there any individuals who should NOT get one asap? - It's confusing that we still have to wear masks and distance after a vaccine. Why? - Should cancer patients and survivors feel good about traveling after being vaccinated? - No one likes to wear a mask, but Dr. Wentworth shares her favorite! Helpful links for finding vaccine appointments: - Be sure you are signed up for your healthcare providers electronic medical record - Follow your local health department website and social media pages - https://findmygroup.nc.gov/ - https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/findyourspot

In this interview, Julie talks with Dr. Bhuiyan about the latest study for cancer survivors out of the Mindful Health Lab at Arizona State University. Dr. Bhuiyan also shares information on other wellness studies available to cancer survivors, as well as general tips about sleeping well.  Find information about the study, if you're eligible and register for notification of other studies at bit.ly/cancerwellnessstudy Information on Dr. Bhuiyan and the Mindful Health Lab: https://jenhubertyphd.com/mindful-health-lab/ Information on the lead investigator: https://chs.asu.edu/jennifer-huberty   For information on Cancer Services' latest programs visit https://cancerservicesonline.org/events/ Calendar: https://cancerservicesonline.org/calendar/ Registration links: https://cancerservicesonline.org/register/  

Julie and Lindy talk about our upcoming cancer survivorship programs and events that you don't want to miss! * NOTE that in this episode, Julie says her cooking class is on Wednesday, Jan 20th, however we have rescheduled that class for 11am on 1/27. REGISTER HERE.  Important links: www.cancerservicesonline.org/calendar www.cancerservicesonline.org/register www.cancerservicesonline.org/news www.cancerservicesonline.org/january www.cancerdietitian.com/rainbow

This is the recording from the the second day of Survivors Week 2020.  Felicia Dobson, a Patient Advocate at Cancer Services hosts the session on behalf of Cancer Services, Novant Health Derrick L Davis Cancer Center, and Wake Forest Baptist Health Comprehensive Cancer Center. Find information on the week, including videos from the sessions here: www.cancerservicesonline.org/survivorsweek This session is on Survivorship and Integrative Medicine and we have a very talented panel.  Each panelist spends about 10 minutes to talk to you about their area of expertise and how to maximize wellness, decrease stress and be your best self.  After the presentations, the panelists answer questions. The first panelist is Dr. Judith Hopkins. Dr. Hopkins is a Medical Oncologist with the Novant Health Cancer Institute and works out of the Kernersville location.  She received her undergraduate degree from the University of Richmond and graduated from the University of Virginia Medical School.  She has been practicing medicine in Winston since 1980.  Her clinical interests include Breast Cancer Prevention, genetics, treatment and survivorship, as well as GI Malignancies and CLL.  Her hobbies include reading historical fiction, skiing and hiking. She also enjoys spending time with her family on their 110-acre farm in South Carolina. Our second panelist is Dr. Russ Greenfield. Dr. Russ is the Medical Director of Novant’s new Integrative Medicine department.  Integrative Medicine is where the best of conventional medicine and complementary therapies are used together to maximize a person’s healing capacity.  He is Board Certified in Emergency Medicine, and in 1999 was one of the first four physicians to graduate from the Program in Integrative Medicine at the University of Arizona, College of Medicine under the direction of Dr. Andrew Weil. (pronounced “While”) Our third panelist, Kim DeRhodes, works very closely with Dr. Russ in the Integrative Medicine Department of Novant Health.  Kim is a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill where she received her BS in Pharmacy.  She has over 35 years experience as a pharmacist.  She frequently gives lectures on integrative and natural medicine and has taught classes at Queens College, UNCC, and Carolinas College of Healthcare Sciences.  She is a contributor to Dr. Andrew Weil’s latest book, Mind Over Meds.  She sees patients by appointment for medication therapy management and counsels them on the proper use of vitamins, herbs, and other natural medicines.  

Watch the interview on video: https://youtu.be/iA_39qkDWVs Contact Julie with questions or ideas: julie@cancerservicesonline.org Check out the latest virtual wellness programs at Cancer Services: www.cancerservicesonline.org/news Sign up to be on Cancer Services' email list. Dr. Wentworth discusses the following with us today: 1. What are the most important things that cancer patients and survivors need to know right now? 2. For someone who is newly diagnosed, or who is currently in the middle of their treatment plan and has to physically go to the treatment center and doctor appointments, what do they need to be doing before, during and after treatments. 3. For people who have completed treatment recently (in the last year), what precautions do they need to take? Are there any certain types of cancer who are at higher risk of complications if they contract COVID-19? 4. For survivors who have completed treatment 2+ years ago, is their risk higher than the average public for their age? 5. Looking farther into the future, what would be some prudent ways for cancer survivors to consider re-entering public life when social distancing measures are lifted?

Is takeout food safe? The short answer is YES, it's perfectly safe. And it's helping to keep our restaurants in business! With a few common-sense precautions like washing your hands before you eat, and making sure you store the food safely, it's a great way to find variety in your meal plan. Check out NC State's information regarding takeout food and COVID-19.  Check out these apps for your phone that help you order and pay for takeout or deliver! Swipeby is an app (developed by a Wake Forest grad!) where you can find local restaurants, order, pay with credit and the restaurant has a dedicated parking spot that you park in for curbside pickup. Convenient!   Find SWIPEBY Here! Door Dash, Uber Eats and Grub Hub are all apps that allow you to order from restaurants, pay and have it delivered to your door! Check them out and see which one has your favorite restaurant.  SIGN UP For the Move More. Stress Less program! - www.cancerservicesonline.org/movemore Page for staying active at home – www.cancerservicesonline.org/exercise Help us plan for what programs would best meet your needs by completing our quick and easy survey HERE!  Video content with NWAHEC About Eating Healthy While Staying Home - Watch the Video Here 5 tips shared in the video: 1.     Lower the bar on healthy eating expectations. We all have heightened stress and feel like things are out of control. Comfort foods can be helpful in creating a sense of normalcy. 2.     Be mindful about hunger cues and emotions. What you eat is less important. 3.     Keep to a routine. Including meal and snack times. 4.     Have a fruit bowl out in your kitchen. 5.     There’s nothing wrong with coffee! Featured recipe: Med South Caviar Gardening Ideas! A wonderful resource that each county has is the NC Cooperative Extension! Find your county's webpage by putting the county name at the beginning of this web address: YOUR COUNTY .ces.ncsu.edu/. For example, Forsyth county website is forsyth.ces.ncsu.edu and Davie county is davie.ces.ncsu.edu (do not use www with these!). They each provide advice, soil testing, insect identification and holding information sessions online. Call to find out what your county is offering! To contact Cooperative Extension Forsyth County staff, call 336-703-2850. To contact Davie Cooperative Extension, call 336-753-6100.   Cornell's Vegetable MD Online  This page can help problem-solve when your vegetables aren't growing as expected. Sprouting Seeds at Home! Info from the NC State Cooperative Extension Article Here   Learn Something New! Forsyth County library has an online library card application! Once you have a library card, you can access the digital library and read e-books for FREE!  CLICK HERE FOR THE ONLINE LIBRARY CARD Learn how to make Easter egg ornaments out of flour and salt. Decorate and share with your neighbors as a fun Easter surprise!  Be social while working on your vocabulary by playing Words with Friends! You can connect and compete with friends via your smartphone! To find all the links and ideas from previous emails, check out our "Learn Something New" page here! - www.cancerservicesonline.org/learn

It's been a week with our new reality and I think most of us are tired of the new words we are using all the time...things like "social distance" and "coronavirus" and "homeschool." At Cancer Services, we are working to maintain our services as much as possible and offering many things online.  Let us know if you have questions or suggestions on how we can assist you during this time. We are open to ideas!! In the next few weeks, we will be setting up online classes, like Cancer Transitions, from home!     As a reminder: Please call us before you come by the office so we can determine if you need to come or not. We want to keep all our clients safe, and our staff as well. We are happy to talk with you during normal business hours at 336-760-9983. UPDATE ON OFFICE HOURS: We will be open M-Th 9am - 4pm and Friday 9am - 2pm.   Be sure you connect with us via the Cancer Services Facebook page and our YouTube channel!     Sign up for our email list HERE.   We had to cancel our annual auction, Wrapped Up In Ribbons, which raises 25% of our budget. If you are able, consider helping us make our goal despite the cancellation. FIND OUT MORE HERE!     MOVE MORE. STRESS LESS. Virtual Activity Program: - http://cancerservicesonline.org/movemore/   Dates: April 1 – May 27 Requirements: Track the time spent doing dedicated physical activity and email to Lindy (lindy@cancerservicesonline.org), our Survivorship Coordinator, each week. PRIZES: Of course, the best prize of all is feeling good & less stressed! To help motivate you, we will have prizes for participation and grand prize drawings at 4 weeks and 8 weeks. Grand prizes will be delivered by mail, but due to the cost of postage, participation prizes must be picked up. SIGN UP HERE: http://cancerservicesonline.org/movemore/      Coronavirus quick links: How to Navigate Cancer in the Wake of the COVID-19 Pandemic from Cure Magazine Cancer Services has information regarding coronavirus on our website here: www.cancerservicesonline.org/coronavirus and in Spanish here: www.cancerservicessonline.org/informaciondecoronavirus. Local public radio, WFDD, has a coronavirus page with updates.  https://www.wfdd.org/story/live-updates-coronavirus-north-carolina Para versión en Español, haga click aquí.   Find science-based coronavirus websites here:  CDC – www.cdc.gov/coronavirus NCDHHS – www.ncdhhs.gov/coronavirus Forsyth County Department of Public Health - https://www.forsyth.cc/PublicHealth/novel_coronavirus.aspx NC coronavirus call center (in English and Spanish) – 866-462-3821 Forsyth County Department of Public Health coronavirus call line - 336-582-0800 Relaxation Tools: CBT-I Coach, a free app made by the VA for veterans, which has a series of really excellent meditation and relaxation tools. Insight Timer App and website to assist with anxiety, stress, and relaxation. NUTRITION IDEAS:  Check out this podcast interviewing Novant Health Integrative Medicine Doctor, Russ Greenfield regarding the fact that supplements are not proven to boost your immune system.     Med Tuna Salad Recipe:    OPPORTUNITIES FOR LEARNING: The Hidden Worlds of National Parks - an interactive documentary. It's really cool!!  On Friday, March 13, Old Salem Museums & Gardens launched a new online platform, OLD SALEM EXPLORATORIUM, created to serve those school students who have had to cancel their field trip to the Old Salem Historic District due to Coronavirus measures. The series of 5- to 10-minute experiences will bring the students in direct visual (but not physical!) contact with our master craftsman and educators. Check out their Old Salem YouTube channel here! Here are 450 Ivy League courses you can take online right now for free. Missing The NCAA Tourneys? Try March Mammal Madness Mammals, alliteration, survival-of-the-fittest. These brackets have it all. Kids and teens books streaming for free from audible!   EXERCISE AT HOME: Virginia is one of our volunteers who teaches a dance class for our Spanish speaking clients on Monday nights. She recorded a video for us to dance with her from home! Check it out and get your exercise! Follow along, or make up your own moves. That's the great thing about dancing at home!! Join Angela Gallagher from North Joy Yoga as she teaches her yoga for cancer classes virtually on Wednesdays at 9am and 5pm. If you would like to join these classes, please email Angela at northjoyyoga@yahoo.com. This elementary PE teacher from Chattanooga, Coach Wood, is doing a PE video EVERY DAY during the school closings and they are super fun for kids of all ages (yes, that includes kids over 60 years old!!). (PE with Coach Wood) A great way to get your wiggles out each day for about 20 minutes. Check it out. YMCA NWNC is posting workouts every day on their Facebook page. Find your local branch's page here: ymcanwnc.org/yourvirtualymca. You don't have to be a YMCA member to take advantage of this!  Also, the national YMCA offers free online workouts right now! No membership is needed to access the classes. Find them at https://ymca360.org/  

Wellness Programs at Cancer Services TRANSFORMED! Our country has shifted in less than one week. It was just over one week ago that Julie was getting prepared for her Cook to Thrive! Class. It was a great success with recipes enjoyed and handwashing jokes made. Little did we know it will always be known as "the last class before coronavirus canceled everything." Since then, Cancer Services has been working hard figuring out how to transform our educational programs, survivorship programs and client services.    Listen to this episode as Julie shares updates about our programs and services, science-based information on how to deal with the current public health crisis, and fun ideas on how to stay healthy and well while at home and social distancing.  Here are the links she mentions in the episode! Sign up for our email list HERE:  Cancer Services coronavirus info page: www.cancerservicesonline.org/coronavirus and in Spanish at www.cancerservicesonline.org/informaciondecoronavirus CDC – www.cdc.gov/coronavirus NCDHHS – www.ncdhhs.gov/coronavirus NC Coronavirus call center (in English and Spanish) – 866-462-3821 Julie has been giving virtual education for over 12 years now, and you can spend a lot of time catching up on nutrition recommendations via her website CancerDietitian.com, or podcast, the Cancer Dietitian Podcast. Here's an article she suggests as you think about making sure you have some shelf-stable food in your pantry: Stock Up, Stay Calm and Carry On.  Here are some ideas that we have found fun and thought could help you stretch your mind while you're at home.  Cincinnati Zoo doing Virtual Tours called "Home Safari" EVERY DAY at 3pm! Check out their facebook event page here! Also, if you miss the live version, the recording will be on their YouTube Channel here! The hippo tour from Monday was very fun and informative! Tour some dairy farms HERE We love this guy!! LUNCH DOODLES with Mo Willems! Kennedy Center Education Artist-in-Residence at Home. Learners worldwide can draw, doodle and explore new ways of writing by visiting Mo’s studio virtually once a day for the next few weeks. Grab some paper and pencils, pens, or crayons and join Mo to explore ways of writing and making together.  Viewers can see each weekday’s new video at 1:00 p.m. ET. You can do this via Facebook event page here. You can also watch the recorded videos on the YouTube Channel here. Visit https://www.kennedy-center.org/education/mo-willems/ to watch all of Mo's videos, find activity sheets to print out & follow along, and more! Join Angela Gallagher, from North Joy Yoga as she teaches her yoga for cancer classes virtually on Wednesdays at 9am and 5pm. If you would like to join these classes, please email Angela at northjoyyoga@yahoo.com. Kindle Unlimited is offering a 30 day free trial for e-books.

How to talk about cancer can be very touchy. If you’re the person facing a diagnosis, you want to communicate the right information without giving too much information. You want to be honest, but also not scare your loved ones. For caregivers and friends, sometimes you don’t know what to say. You have your own emotions about it but don’t want to make your loved to have to worry about how you’re handling it. At Cancer Services, we know this is an issue. We work with people facing cancer to provide tips and talking points and also offer the community some ideas on how to support someone through cancer. In this episode, Julie talks with Lindy Milligan, Cancer Services' Survivorship Coordinator and a 10-year cancer survivor who was diagnosed in her 40s when she had 4 children ranging from 3rd grade to a freshman in college.  We hope you find this conversation one that helps you feel equipped to have helpful conversations regarding cancer, cancer treatment and how to best support someone who is going through a diagnosis. For people diagnosed with cancer, see our article: When You are Diagnosed: Communicating with Friends and Family. For caregivers, see our ‘How to Support Someone Through Cancer: What to Say, What Not to Say’ article.

On this episode of the Triad Cancer Connection Podcast we’re talking about the emotional effects of cancer with Dr. Richard McQuellon, Director of Psychosocial Oncology at Wake Forest Baptist Health Comprehensive Cancer Center's Cancer Patient Support Program. We’ll discuss practical coping mechanisms, when to seek professional help for depression, and the power of community. We’re also speaking with Julie Pope, a GI Oncology Nurse Navigator at Novant Health Cancer Center about their local cancer support group for cancer survivors, patients and caregivers. Then we’ll hear from ten-year colon cancer survivor Rod Hunter about his experience and how he has navigated his emotions from diagnosis to recovery. What we discuss: Coping with disease and management, relationships and how you think and feel The importance of understanding how you work and what gives you hope Finding a support community Practical coping mechanisms When to seek professional help to deal with depression The power of both speaking about how you feel and listening to others Different types of creative therapy options The greatest need for caregivers Links mentioned: ACS Coping Checklist for Patients Wake Forest Baptist Cancer Survivorship Clinic Wake Forest Baptist Comprehensive Cancer Center Cancer Services, Inc. Cancer Dietitian Colon Cancer Coalition Get Your Rear in Gear 2020 Race Race Facebook Event Page

On this episode of the Triad Cancer Connection Podcast we’re talking about survivorship with Kristin Houston, PA and Dr. Stacy Wentworth of Wake Forest Baptist Cancer Survivorship Clinic in Winston-Salem, NC. They walk us through recommendations regarding follow up medical treatment, treating common side effects, and the mental challenges that come with transitioning into post-treatment life. We’ll also chat with Malek Rais, an eight-year colon cancer survivor, about his experience and how becoming a patient advocate at Cancer Services aided in his recovery. What we discuss: The current recommendations for colon cancer survivors regarding follow up appointments, colonoscopies and other types of medical management The most important things you can focus on outside of medical management after completing active treatment Determining small goals to help you transition to post-treatment life Maximizing quality of life for survivors who remain on active treatment Being open with your health care provider about any symptoms you’re experiencing, even if they appear minor or unrelated Treating common side effects of cancer treatment Establishing a survivorship support team If you’re interested in participating in the clinical trials mentioned in this episode, please contact Meg Omara at 336-716-9055. Links mentioned: Wake Forest Baptist Cancer Survivorship Clinic Wake Forest Baptist Comprehensive Cancer Center Cancer Services, Inc. Cancer Dietitian Colon Cancer Coalition Get Your Rear in Gear 2020 Race Race Facebook Event Page

On this episode of the Triad Cancer Connection Podcast we’re discussing diagnosis and treatment of colon cancer with Joyce Fenstermaker, a GI Oncology Nurse Navigator at Wake Forest Baptist Health Comprehensive Cancer Center, about the colon cancer screening and treatment process and coping with the anxiety that comes with a diagnosis. We also chat with cancer survivor and Board-Certified Medical Oncologist at Novant Health Oncology Specialists, Dr. Eugene Paschold about his personal cancer experience as well as his advice for patients from a doctor and patient perspective. What we discuss: How the process works When it’s time to make treatment decisions Why you should be asking for a second opinion How to cope with the anxiety of a diagnosis and treatment Where to go for help How caregivers, friends and family can help someone facing a diagnosis of colon cancer Links mentioned: NCCN Guidelines for Colon Cancer Patients Wake Forest Baptist Comprehensive Cancer Center Novant Health Oncology Specialists Cancer Services, Inc. Cancer Dietitian Colon Cancer Coalition Get Your Rear in Gear 2020 Race Race Facebook Event Page

On this episode of the Triad Cancer Connection Podcast we’re talking with Thuy Vu, a Genetic Counselor at Wake Forest Baptist Comprehensive Cancer Center in Winston-Salem, NC, about how genetics can affect your probability of developing colon cancer and preventative measures you can take to help stay cancer-free. We’ll also chat with Jill Hyson about her diagnosis of Lynch Syndrome and how it’s affected her life and family. What we discuss: When you should request to see a Genetic Counselor Who is considered a medically “close relative” When to worry about pre-cancerous polyps Collecting your family’s medical history The difference between genetics counseling and genetics testing How often you should have your genetics tested Three possible test results How online genetics tests differ from the genetic testing requested by your doctor Lynch Syndrome Mentally processing your diagnosis Links mentioned: Wake Forest Baptist Comprehensive Cancer Center Cancer Services, Inc. Cancer Dietitian Colon Cancer Coalition Get Your Rear in Gear 2020 Race Race Facebook Event Page

On this episode of the Triad Cancer Connection Podcast we’re talking about evidence-based guidelines regarding nutrition and physical activity when it comes to colon cancer. We’re going to uncover the truth about what science shows are the most important things to eat for colon cancer risk reduction and survivorship and talk with colon cancer patient Tommy Mitchell about his experience with people offering nutrition advice and how he has managed to stick to key recommendations. What we discuss: Defining what constitutes an “evidence-based” recommendation AICR colon cancer nutrition and activity guidelines The worst piece of nutrition advice Tommy has received (and some other not-so-great recommendations) Why you should be skeptical of diet documentaries and Facebook videos How to respond when people give you poor recommendations Finding a balance that makes healthy living an achievable goal Helpful tips for nutrition and physical activity when you’re not feeling well Links mentioned: American Institute for Cancer Research The National Cancer Institute American Cancer Society Cancer Services, Inc. Cancer Dietitian Colon Cancer Coalition Get Your Rear in Gear 2020 Race Race Facebook Event Page  

On our first episode of the Triad Cancer Connection Podcast, I’m talking with Scott Cornella, MD of Gastroenterology Associates of the Piedmont about colon cancer screening recommendations. Originally from western North Carolina, Dr. Cornella attended the University of North Carolina for his undergraduate education, where he graduated with honors with a degree in Biology. He stayed in Chapel Hill to obtain his medical degree at the University of North Carolina School of Medicine. Dr. Cornella completed his residency in Internal Medicine at the University of Virginia, where he had the distinction of serving as Chief Resident. He subsequently completed a fellowship in Gastroenterology and Hepatology at the University of Virginia. He is board-certified in Internal Medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine. Affiliations include the American College of Gastroenterology and the American Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy. What we discuss: What inspired Dr. Cornella to study gastroenterology Why colonoscopies are recommended for colon cancer prevention How dangerous polyps are and how they affect future screenings The importance of bowel prep Pros and cons of alternative screening options Recommendations for minorities and other high-risk patients Who can perform a colonoscopy What to ask your colonoscopy doctor Colonoscopy prep tips I also speak with Senior Civic Engagement Specialist at United Health Centers Felica Bennett-Giles about her colonoscopy experience and why she’s become an advocate for early screenings for African Americans. Links mentioned: Cancer Services, Inc. Cancer Dietitian Gastroenterology Associates of the Piedmont United Health Centers Colon Cancer Coalition Get Your Rear in Gear 2020 Race Race Facebook Event Page

Welcome to the Triad Cancer Connection Podcast! I’m Julie Lanford, your host, and the wellness director for Cancer Services, Inc. If you’re not familiar with us, we are a local cancer support agency in Winston Salem, NC. We offer comprehensive cancer support services and our mission is to enhance health, life, and survivorship and that’s exactly what this podcast is designed to do! Whether you’re someone who has been diagnosed with cancer, is a loved one of someone who has faced a cancer diagnosis, a healthcare provider or someone who wants to decrease risk and be knowledgeable about resources, then you’ve come to the right place! This podcast will connect you to our local experts and resources. We’ve got a lot of plans for who to talk to, what to talk about and how to get you the information and support that you need! We’ll talk about things like cancer survivorship, financial assistance resources, how to support someone through cancer, when to get screened, and how to keep humor and fun in your life despite a serious diagnosis. Our episodes will be anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour, depending on the topic. We’d love to hear from you regarding what you want to learn about and who we should talk to, so please send us an email to julie@cancerservicesonline.org. Or if you’re in the triad of NC, just give us a call or stop by our office! You can reach us at 336-760-99-83 or in real life on Maplewood Ave. in Winston-Salem. We can’t wait to have you join us as we start our newest program – the Triad Cancer Connection Podcast! Be sure to subscribe to our podcast feed and share with your friends.