Podcasts about Glioblastoma

Neurologist Michelle Monje studies the close relationship between cancer and the nervous system, particularly in an aggressive brain cancer that often strikes in childhood. Her research shows that the cancer cells are electrically integrated into the brain itself and these connections actually help the cancer to grow. Monje and collaborators have now developed an immunotherapy that has shown great promise in mice and early human trials. One patient had a “complete response” and is cancer-free four years after treatment, Monje tells host Russ Altman on this episode of Stanford Engineering's The Future of Everything podcast.Have a question for Russ? Send it our way in writing or via voice memo, and it might be featured on an upcoming episode. Please introduce yourself, let us know where you're listening from, and share your question. You can send questions to thefutureofeverything@stanford.edu.Episode Reference Links:Stanford Profile: Michelle MonjeConnect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / MastodonConnect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / FacebookChapters:(00:00:00) IntroductionRuss Altman introduces guest Michelle Monje, a professor of pediatric neurology at Stanford University.(00:03:39) Focus on Cancer ResearchMonje's clinical observations led to exploring cancer-neuron interactions.(00:05:28) Neurons and Glial CellsThe role of neurons and glial cells in brain function and disease.(00:08:32) Gliomas in ChildrenAn overview of gliomas and their origins in glial precursor cells.(00:10:12) Rethinking Brain Cancer BehaviorHow gliomas don't just grow—they integrate with brain circuits.(00:14:49) Mechanisms of Tumor GrowthTwo primary mechanisms by which cancer exploits the nervous system.(00:16:32) Synaptic Integration of Cancer CellsThe discovery that glioma cells form synapses with neurons.(00:20:06) CAR T-Cell TherapyAdapting CAR T-cell immunotherapy to target brain tumors.(00:22:52) Targeting GD2 AntigenIdentification of a surface marker enables precision CAR T-cell therapy.(00:24:35) Immune Access to the BrainThe ability of CAR T-cells to reach the brain, despite prior understanding.(00:26:16) First Clinical Trial ResultsThe significant tumor reduction and response from CAR T-cell therapy.(00:28:21) Combined TherapiesPairing immune therapy with neural signaling blockers for better outcomes.(00:30:35) Conclusion Connect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / MastodonConnect with School of Engineering >>>Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / Facebook

September 2025 Journal Club Podcast Title: Ventricular Entry During Glioblastoma Resection is Associated With Reduced Survival and Increased Risk of Distant Recurrence To read journal article: https://journals.lww.com/neurosurgery/fulltext/2025/09000/ventricular_entry_during_glioblastoma_resection_is.10.aspx Author: Neslihan Gecici and Pascal Zinn Guest Faculty: Bryan Choi Moderator: Alexander Himstead Committee Co-Chair: Kimberly Hoang

The role of neuronal influences on cancer pathogenesis and progression is increasingly appreciated in the nervous system. Neurons have been shown to enhance the proliferation and migration of gliomas, a glial-derived tumor of the CNS, via diffusible paracrine factors or synaptic inputs onto tumor cells. In glioblastomas, a highly aggressive glioma, mostly glutamatergic inputs have been identified. While the potential for glioblastomas to receive projections from neurons of other neurotransmitter subtypes, such as from cholinergic neurons, has recently been discovered in xenotransplantation models, whether synapses can form between human cholinergic neurons and glioblastoma cells and consequences of these inputs and other non-synaptic mechanisms are still unknown.   Human induced pluripotent stem cell-based models have been emerging as a powerful platform for studying human-specific disease mechanisms. Today's guests developed a co-culture model for the study of neuron-tumor interactions by combining patient derived glioblastoma organoids and hiPSC-derived cholinergic neurons. They will discuss their recent findings and what it means for understanding and potentially treating a tumor for which there is no known cure. GuestsGuo-li Ming, MD, PhD, Department of Neuroscience and Mahoney Institute for Neurosciences, Perelman School of Medicine, University of PennsylvaniaHongjun Song, PhD, Department of Neuroscience and Mahoney Institute for Neurosciences, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Yusha Sun, Neuroscience Graduate Group, Perelman School of Medicine, University of PennsylvaniaHostJanet Rossant, Editor-in-Chief, Stem Cell Reports and The Gairdner FoundationSupporting ContentPaper link:  Cholinergic neuron-to-glioblastoma synapses in a human iPSC-derived co-culture model, Stem Cell ReportsAbout Stem Cell ReportsStem Cell Reports is the open access, peer-reviewed journal of the International Society for Stem Cell Research (ISSCR) for communicating basic discoveries in stem cell research, in addition to translational and clinical studies. Stem Cell Reports focuses on original research with conceptual or practical advances that are of broad interest to stem cell biologists and clinicians.X: @StemCellReportsAbout ISSCRWith nearly 5,000 members from more than 80 countries, the International Society for Stem Cell Research (@ISSCR) is the preeminent global, cross-disciplinary, science-based organization dedicated to stem cell research and its translation to the clinic. The ISSCR mission is to promote excellence in stem cell science and applications to human health.ISSCR StaffKeith Alm, Chief Executive OfficerYvonne Fisher, Managing Editor, Stem Cell ReportsKym Kilbourne, Director of Media and Strategic CommunicationsMegan Koch, Senior Marketing ManagerJack Mosher, Scientific DirectorHunter Reed, Senior Marketing Coordinator

Good morning from Pharma and Biotech Daily: the podcast that gives you only what's important to hear in Pharma and Biotech world. BioNTech is focusing on infectious diseases as vaccine rates drop, with expectations that the US COVID-19 vaccination rate will decrease slightly. Glioblastoma research is seeing increased funding and interest from companies like Merck and Jazz Pharmaceuticals. The FDA's rejection of Replimmune's melanoma drug, despite staff consensus, has caused a drop in the company's stock. Sarepta and Capricor learned of regulatory decisions through media leaks, causing confusion for patients and families. Trilink Biotechnologies offers process development services for nucleic acid therapeutic development. Lotte Biologics is expanding globally, Allogene is discontinuing an immunosuppressive antibody after a patient death, and NIH funding cuts are impacting biotech. Pharmas are increasing investment in AI despite challenges in the industry. Trump urges pharma companies to address drug pricing, while Merck plans to cut 6,000 jobs to save $3 billion.

Until only recently, treating Glioblastoma brain cancer with chemotherapy has not been achievable due to the blood brain barrier.  In today's Bindwaves episode, Dr. Michael Canney walks us through how Carthera developed a revolutionary method to deliver therapeutics to the brain utilizing an ultrasound system.  It is well known that the survival rate for Glioblastoma is 1 to 2 years.  Surgery tends to be the primary means to combat this horrible disease.  To improve these odds, an ultrasound implant is placed in the brain after the surgeon removes the tumor.  This implant, or mesh, contains an ultrasound transducer, which when activated during chemo treatments, disrupts the blood brain barrier thus allowing therapeutics to attach to the cancer cells.   Join us as Dr. Canney eloquently discusses the history of this treatment, Phase 1 and Phase 2 results, and their hopes for the Phase 3 trial. Support the showNew episodes drop every other Thursday everywhere you listen to podcasts.

Anuschka was reborn August 23, 2017 when she was diagnosed with Glioblastoma (GBM) Grade 4 Brain Cancer. After a year and a half of conventional treatments including radiation, chemotherapy, and Novocure Optune, along with a ton of simultaneous non-conventional treatments, including energy healing, subconscious mind reprogramming, radically changing her diet to organic vegan, following her intuition, deepening her spiritual connection, and more, Anuschka is now healed, cancer free, and pregnant with one of the frozen embryos before she started radiation!  Anuschka believes everyone has the ability to heal from within when they find a strong reason to live, balance their MIND BODY SPIRIT, and specifically release suppressed emotions. Connect with Anushka: - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HealingWithAnuschka - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/healing.with.anuschka - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anuschka - Linktree: https://linktr.ee/healingwithanuschka - YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/healingwithanuschka _____________ To learn more about the 10 Radical Remission Healing Factors, connect with a certified RR coach or join a virtual or in-person workshop visit www.radicalremission.com. To watch Episode 1 of the Radical Remission Docuseries for free, visit our YouTube channel here.  To purchase the full 10-episode Radical Remission Docuseries visit Hay House Online Learning. To learn more about Radical Remission health coaching with Liz or Karla, Click Here Follow us on Social Media: Facebook  Instagram YouTube ____________ Thank you to our friends from The Healing Oasis for sponsoring this episode of the podcast.  The Healing Oasis is a first of its kind in beautiful British Columbia, Canada where we encourage the body to heal from cancer using alternative therapies & cancer fighting meals at a wellness retreat center in nature. Our top naturopathic cancer doctor will prescribe a protocol tailored specifically for you. There's no place quite like it. Start your healing journey today! Learn More about The Healing Oasis by visiting these links: Website   Testimonials Video Overview

Dr. Sandra Silberman, Chief Medical Officer at CNS Pharmaceuticals, has developed new therapies for glioblastoma that can cross the blood-brain barrier to reach brain tumors. Their lead drug candidates have been modified to slip into the membranes to inhibit tumor growth and attack the cancer cells. The anthracycline-based and taxane-based drugs are showing efficacy in clinical trials and are not showing the cardiotoxicity associated with anthracyclines. Sandra explains, "Anthracyclines are characteristically cardiotoxic. And we have just conducted a study of over 160 patients who have received this, and some of them for quite a long period of time. And we have not seen any cardiotoxicity. So we have one of the anthracyclines that is the first to actually cross the blood-brain barrier without any help from other mechanisms, and it also doesn't cause cardiotoxicity. So we have a really open field to be able to further develop this drug. And we know that this drug, based on all of our preclinical studies, is very effective against glioma cells." "This is to the great credit of the chemists that we've been working with. Can I develop a compound that can not be a substrate for this, so it can't even bind to this efflux transporter and can slip by? But not only that, can it be lipophilic, meaning it can get through all those membranes, and it can be something that leaks into the brain itself. So the two molecules that we have are not substrates for these multidrug-resistant transporters. They're also very highly lipophilic, meaning they're very oily. And so I guess this has two meanings to it, but they're oily and then they slip into the brain and are able to do what they're supposed to be doing, which is the inhibition of tumor growth and killing the tumor cells." #CNSPharma #Glioblastoma ##BrainCancer #BloodBrainBarrier #NeuroOncology #CancerResearch #DrugDevelopment #BrainTumor cnspharma.com Listen to the podcast here  

Dr. Sandra Silberman, Chief Medical Officer at CNS Pharmaceuticals, has developed new therapies for glioblastoma that can cross the blood-brain barrier to reach brain tumors. Their lead drug candidates have been modified to slip into the membranes to inhibit tumor growth and attack the cancer cells. The anthracycline-based and taxane-based drugs are showing efficacy in clinical trials and are not showing the cardiotoxicity associated with anthracyclines. Sandra explains, "Anthracyclines are characteristically cardiotoxic. And we have just conducted a study of over 160 patients who have received this, and some of them for quite a long period of time. And we have not seen any cardiotoxicity. So we have one of the anthracyclines that is the first to actually cross the blood-brain barrier without any help from other mechanisms, and it also doesn't cause cardiotoxicity. So we have a really open field to be able to further develop this drug. And we know that this drug, based on all of our preclinical studies, is very effective against glioma cells." "This is to the great credit of the chemists that we've been working with. Can I develop a compound that can not be a substrate for this, so it can't even bind to this efflux transporter and can slip by? But not only that, can it be lipophilic, meaning it can get through all those membranes, and it can be something that leaks into the brain itself. So the two molecules that we have are not substrates for these multidrug-resistant transporters. They're also very highly lipophilic, meaning they're very oily. And so I guess this has two meanings to it, but they're oily and then they slip into the brain and are able to do what they're supposed to be doing, which is the inhibition of tumor growth and killing the tumor cells." #CNSPharma #Glioblastoma ##BrainCancer #BloodBrainBarrier #NeuroOncology #CancerResearch #DrugDevelopment #BrainTumor cnspharma.com  Download the transcript here

Grammy-nominated singer, songwriter and pianist Regina Spektor grew up in Soviet Russia, so when she moved to the Bronx with her family in 1990, American food was a bit of a culture shock. Cereal! Oranges! Chocolate pudding cups! It was all brand-new! Regina shares a handful of her family’s immigration eating stories. When in doubt, order the soup! That’s what Regina does. She tells host Rachel Belle about her (nearly) lifelong love of soup, what caused her to rebel against it in high school and why the simplest of broths would be her last meal. Cookbook author Caroline Wright never set out to have a career in soup, but a terminal cancer diagnosis resulted in a soup club, two vegan soup cookbooks and the title of Seattle Soup Lady. She tells Rachel her story. Watch Rachel’s Cascade PBS TV show The Nosh with Rachel Belle! Season 2 out now! Sign up for Rachel’s new (free!) Cascade PBS newsletter for more food musings! Follow along on Instagram! Order Rachel’s cookbook Open Sesame. Support the show: http://rachelbelle.substack.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we visit KU Leuven in Belgium to explore GLIOMATCH, a groundbreaking European research initiative working to improve outcomes for adults and children with glioblastoma through collaboration across neurosurgery, oncology, immunology, and spatial omics. We speak with the experts leading this innovative work. Frederik De Smet, Professor and GLIOMATCH Project Coordinator at KU Leuven, outlines the vision for the project and how it brings together multiple disciplines to tackle one of the most challenging forms of cancer. Steven De Vleeschouwer, MD, PhD, Neurosurgeon and expert in immunotherapy trials, shares how surgical intervention plays a key role not only in treatment but also in advancing research. Paul M. Clement, MD, Medical Oncologist specializing in adult neuro-oncology, discusses the complexities of post-surgical care and how GLIOMATCH is helping improve decision-making. Sandra Jacobs, MD, Pediatric Neuro-Oncologist, highlights the unique challenges in treating children and the need for tailored research approaches. Thierry Voet, PhD, Chair of the Leuven Institute for Single-Cell Omics, explains how cutting-edge spatial omics is transforming our understanding of glioblastoma biology. Abhishek D. Garg, PhD, Tumor Immunology Specialist, shares how data science and deep immune profiling are driving new insights into overcoming immunotherapy resistance. GLIOMATCH is a testament to the power of collaboration in pushing the boundaries of glioblastoma research and offering hope for patients and families worldwide. This work is funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Health and Digital Executive Agency (HaDEA). Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them. This work is also supported by Innovate UK [grant number 10113516] and the Swiss State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation (SERI) under the contract number 23.00607. Learn more at www.gliomatch.eu This episode is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for guidance specific to your health or treatment plan.

Send us a textWilliam Ho is a Co-Founder, and has served as the President, Chief Executive Officer, and Director of IN8bio ( https://in8bio.com/ ), a biotech company with a mission of developing next-generation therapies for treating cancer, with a focus on gamma-delta T cells, since its inception.  Mr. Ho has worked in the biotechnology industry for nearly 24 years. Prior to the founding of IN8bio, from 2014 to 2017, Mr. Ho was the Founder and Managing Partner at AlephPoint Capital, a private healthcare investment fund. Prior to that, Mr. Ho was at New Leaf Venture Partners, a leading healthcare venture capital firm, where he launched and managed the public investments and cross-over portfolio and served as its Public Investment Director from 2010 to 2014. Previously, Mr. Ho served as a Senior Equity Research Analyst at Bank of America from 2006 to 2009 and an Equity Research Analyst at Piper Jaffray & Co. from 2003 to 2006, covering the biotechnology and life-science tools sectors. Earlier in his career, Mr. Ho was responsible for FP&A and operational analysis at CuraGen Corporation and worked as an Associate on the Healthcare Investment Banking team at Cowen, Inc. Mr. Ho was an inductee into the McMaster University Alumni Gallery in 2020 and previously served as a member of their Dean's Advisory Board for the Faculty of Science. Mr. Ho received an MBA from the University of Notre Dame and a B.S. in Biochemistry from McMaster University.#WilliamHo #IN8bio #GammaDeltaTCells #ImmuneSystem #Glioblastoma #AcuteMyeloidLeukemia #NonSignalingCART #InducedPluripotentStemCells#Oncology #Immunooncology #Cancer #ProgressPotentialAndPossibilities #IraPastor #Podcast #Podcaster #ViralPodcast #STEM #Innovation #Technology #Science #ResearchSupport the show

When Rebecca was 27 years old, her mom was diagnosed with glioblastoma. It turned her life upside down. And it wasn't until 15 years and 4 kids later that it righted itself. She herself was diagnosed with glioblastoma, given the same bleak prognosis as her mother of 12-15 months and limited treatment options.  Rebecca's entire adult life had been ruled by anxiety but something happened during her surgery that changed her perspective. She felt an overwhelming sense of peace and deep knowing that she was on the path she was meant to take. This experience had a huge impact. Rebecca bravely tried a new treatment in Germany, threw away her chemo and used food, fitness and mindset to save her life. Since then, Rebecca has tried to raise her children with the empowering message that you can control your own health by making good choices. Rebecca has had no evidence of disease for over 7 years. www.rebeccadevine.com instagram: @thatbrainyblonde podcast: The Brainy Blonde Podcast ____________________ To learn more about the 10 Radical Remission Healing Factors, connect with a certified RR coach or join a virtual or in-person workshop visit www.radicalremission.com. To watch Episode 1 of the Radical Remission Docuseries for free, visit our YouTube channel here.  To purchase the full 10-episode Radical Remission Docuseries visit Hay House Online Learning. To learn more about Radical Remission health coaching with Liz or Karla, Click Here Follow us on Social Media: Facebook  Instagram YouTube ________________________ Thank you to our friends from The Healing Oasis for sponsoring this episode of the podcast.  The Healing Oasis is a first of its kind in beautiful British Columbia, Canada where we encourage the body to heal from cancer using alternative therapies & cancer fighting meals at a wellness retreat center in nature. Our top naturopathic cancer doctor will prescribe a protocol tailored specifically for you. There's no place quite like it. Start your healing journey today! Learn More about The Healing Oasis by visiting these links: Website   Testimonials Video Overview

Greg and Dan talk with Jodi Brown of the KB Strong Foundation, and wife of the late Kevin Brown, a beloved coach and educator who passed away in 2019 after a courageous battle with Glioblastoma. Glioblastoma is an aggressive and fast-growing form of brain cancer that affects the brain and spinal cord. It is currently one of the most complex and deadly forms of cancer, with no known cause or cure. Treatment options are limited, and survival rates remain low, making awareness and research critically important. In honor of Kevin’s legacy and in recognition of National Glioblastoma Awareness Day on July 16th, the KB Strong Foundation is partnering with the OSF Cancer Institute to host a community-focused event aimed at raising awareness, inspiring hope, and driving forward the search for answers. This event is more than just a gathering—it’s a testament to resilience, unity, and the power of community support. What began as a local effort in Peoria has now grown into a nationally recognized movement, connecting families, researchers, and advocates across the country. Together, they stand strong—for Kevin, and for the countless others affected by Glioblastoma.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join Michael and mom Ashlee as they talk to Michael Canney, Ph.D., who is leading an exciting Phase 3 clinical trial that holds the promise of reshaping brain cancer treatment in particular in glioblastoma. This trial is testing a new surgical implant using ultrasound to enhance chemotherapy effectiveness against brain tumors, in particular because of the blood/brain barrier. Mike is at the forefront of efforts at 40 clinical sites worldwide, 20 in the US, working to push the boundaries in brain cancer treatments. The conversation takes a personal turn, as always with Michael and mom :)find out more about this phase 3 clinical trial for Glioblastoma:https://sonobird.eu/More info about Carthera:https://carthera.eu/More about Michael Canney on Linked In:https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-canney-ph-d-42457b5/

When the NHS can't provide the treatment your partner needs to survive, how far would you go? Asta Pratapaviciene is raising £100,000 through her GoFundMe campaign, "You're My Only Hope," after her partner's brain cancer diagnosis exposed the limits of public healthcare. Donate here: https://gofund.me/c11576b0 Asta Pratapaviciene City: Basildon Address: 28 Gilbert Drive Website: https://gofund.me/c11576b0 Email: asta72922@gmail.com

In this episode of Bench to Bedside, Dr. Roy Jensen, vice chancellor and director of The University of Kansas Cancer Center, sits down with Dr. David Akhavan, a physician-scientist pioneering cell therapy research for brain cancer. Dr. Akhavan discusses the revolutionary potential of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy in treating cancers like glioblastoma, the complexities involved and the innovative approaches his team is employing, such as smarter engineered T-cells and nanoparticles. Highlighting the collaboration within KU Cancer Center, Dr. Akhavan also shares personal insights into his motivation and the future of cancer treatment. Do you have questions about cancer? Call our Bench to Bedside Hotline at (913) 588-3880 or email us at benchtobedside@kumc.edu, and your comment or question may be shared on an upcoming episode! If you appreciated this episode, please share, rate, subscribe and leave a review. To ensure you get our latest updates, For the latest updates, follow us on the social media channel of your choice by searching for KU Cancer Center. Links from this Episode: Learn more about cell therapy at KU Cancer Center Learn more about brain cancer Read more about Dr. Akhavan's work on the KU Cancer Center blog, “Exploring Immunotherapy Treatments to Treat Brain Cancer” Learn about Head for the Cure Read how physician-scientists at KU Cancer Center bridge the gap between the laboratory and the clinic  

Researchers at Brown University have developed a combination treatment that significantly increases survival in mice with glioblastoma (GBM), a highly aggressive and treatment-resistant brain cancer. The approach uses a new class of drugs called imipridones along with radiation therapy and standard chemotherapy. This triple therapy, known as IRT, was recently detailed in a study published in Oncotarget. Understanding Glioblastoma and the Need for Better Therapies Glioblastoma is the most common and aggressive malignant brain tumor in adults. It grows quickly and is difficult to treat, often leading to poor outcomes. Most patients survive less than 15 months after diagnosis, even when treated with surgery, radiation, and the chemotherapy drug temozolomide (TMZ). This treatment may slow the disease, but it does not typically stop it. Full blog - https://www.oncotarget.org/2025/06/04/experimental-triple-therapy-improves-survival-in-glioblastoma-mouse-model/ Paper DOI - https://doi.org/10.18632/oncotarget.28707 Correspondence to - Wafik S. El-Deiry - wafik@brown.edu Video short - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q_mXy8mana0 Sign up for free Altmetric alerts about this article - https://oncotarget.altmetric.com/details/email_updates?id=10.18632%2Foncotarget.28707 Subscribe for free publication alerts from Oncotarget - https://www.oncotarget.com/subscribe/ Keywords - cancer, glioblastoma multiforme, IDH, ONC201, ONC206, MGMT, temozolomide, radiotherapy To learn more about Oncotarget, please visit https://www.oncotarget.com and connect with us: Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Oncotarget/ X - https://twitter.com/oncotarget Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/oncotargetjrnl/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@OncotargetJournal LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/oncotarget Pinterest - https://www.pinterest.com/oncotarget/ Reddit - https://www.reddit.com/user/Oncotarget/ Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/0gRwT6BqYWJzxzmjPJwtVh MEDIA@IMPACTJOURNALS.COM

In this episode of the Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine Podcast, we discuss the metabolic approach to treating cancer with Alicia Hickson, a physician assistant and certified functional medicine provider and Founder of Rayma Health.  The conversation emphasizes the significance of addressing the root causes of chronic illnesses and the relationship between lifestyle choices and cancer development. In this conversation, Alicia   emphasizes the synergy between different treatment modalities, particularly the role of nutrition and the ketogenic diet in managing cancer. Alicia also highlights the significance of patient advocacy and collaboration among healthcare providers to improve patient outcomes and quality of life during treatment.Resources: --> Suboccipital Release and Cortisol Levels--> Clinical Research Framework Proposal for Ketogenic Metabolic Therapy in Glioblastoma--> A Parent's Guide to Childhood Cancer: Supporting Your Child with Integrative Therapies Based on a Metabolic ApproachAlicia Hickson PA-C: info@raymahealth.comONMM Podcast: onmmpodcast@gmail.com

Being a caregiver for someone with brain cancer is emotionally and physically exhausting, but you don't have to navigate it alone. In this episode of Caregiver 101, we sit down with Sylvia's husband as he opens up about what it's really like to support a loved one through a brain cancer diagnosis. From planning future trips to leaning on faith and community, this conversation is filled with hope, resilience, and practical advice.   What you'll learn:• How to maintain normalcy after a brain cancer diagnosis• The importance of community, faith, and medical teams• Tips for emotional well-being, for both patients and caregivers• Real stories from families walking this path Host:Johanna GomezAward-Winning Host & Journalist Expert:Yazmin Odia, M.D.Chief of Neuro-OncologyBaptist Health Miami Cancer Institute Caregiver: Martin Hiriart (Husband of Silvia Fajardo-Hiriart)

What does it take to challenge the deadliest brain tumors with sound waves? How do you scale a medtech startup into a multinational clinical company? And what advice can a top neuro-oncology innovator offer to those hoping to follow a similar path? Welcome to Neurocareers: Doing the Impossible! — The podcast where we explore the extraordinary journeys of those advancing the future of neuroscience and neurotechnology. I'm your host, Dr. Milena Korostenskaja. Today we're speaking with Dr. Michael Canney, the Chief Scientific Officer at Carthera, a clinical-stage medtech company revolutionizing brain therapy through therapeutic ultrasound. With over 15 years of experience in MedTech innovation, Dr. Canney specializes in glioblastoma, neurodegenerative diseases, and therapeutic ultrasound drug delivery. He's currently leading the SONOBIRD Phase 3 clinical trial across 40 sites in the U.S. and Europe, pushing the boundaries of what's possible in treating recurrent glioblastoma. Michael's career spans everything from FDA regulatory strategy to high-impact academic collaborations. He's co-authored over 50 peer-reviewed papers in top-tier journals and 14 patent families. But what truly drives him is improving patient outcomes and bringing hope to some of the most challenging areas in brain health. Whether you're curious about clinical trials, neuro-oncology innovations, or carving out your own career in medtech, this conversation is packed with insight and inspiration. Let's dive in! Chapters: 00:00:01 - Revolutionizing Brain Therapy with Ultrasound, Introducing Dr. Michael Canney 00:04:49 - Advancements in Ultrasound for Drug Delivery 00:10:15 - Innovative Ultrasound for Drug Delivery 00:13:49 - Innovative Ultrasound Approach for Tumor Treatment 00:16:02 - Understanding Blood-Brain Barrier Disruption 00:19:28 - Device Overview and Design Features 00:21:32 - Ultrasound Technology for Tumor Treatment 00:24:15 - Device Implantation in Cancer Treatment 00:28:34 - Challenges in Glioblastoma Treatment Trials 00:31:46 - Dr. Michael Canney's Journey into Ultrasound Research 00:36:15 - Starting a Postdoc Journey 00:39:20 - Career Development in Neuroscience 00:43:31 - Building a Startup Team 00:47:38 - Hiring for Clinical Application Specialists 00:52:16 - Growth of Careers in Neurotechnology 00:54:26 - Using AI in Clinical Trials 00:57:13 - Challenges in Medical Device Approval 00:59:41 - Overcoming Challenges in Medical Innovations 01:02:20 - Clinical Trials and Company Information About the Podcast Guest: Michael Canney, Ph.D., is Chief Scientific Officer at Carthera, a clinical-stage medtech company advancing brain therapy through innovative ultrasound-based devices. A co-author of more than 50 peer-reviewed articles, he specializes in neuro-oncology, glioblastoma and neurodegenerative diseases. At Carthera, he is responsible for leading scientific collaborations with academic institutions, organizing U.S. clinical trials and more. Connect with Dr. Canney on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-canney-ph-d-42457b5/ Learn more about Carthera: https://carthera.eu/ Get familiar with the Sonobird clinical trial: https://sonobird.eu/ About the Podcast Host: The Neurocareers podcast is brought to you by The Institute of Neuroapproaches (https://www.neuroapproaches.org/) and its founder, Milena Korostenskaja, Ph.D. (Dr. K), a career coach for people in neuroscience and neurotechnologies. As a professional coach with a background in neurotech and Brain-Computer Interfaces, Dr. K understands the unique challenges and opportunities job applicants face in this field and can provide personalized coaching and support to help you succeed. Here's what you'll get with one-on-one coaching sessions from Dr. K: Identification and pursuit of career goals Guidance on job search strategies, resume, and cover letter development Neurotech / neuroscience job interview preparation and practice Networking strategies to connect with professionals in the field of neuroscience and neurotechnologies Ongoing support and guidance to help you stay on track and achieve your goals You can always schedule a free neurocareer consultation/coaching session with Dr. K at https://neuroapproaches.as.me/free-neurocareer-consultation Subscribe to our Nerocareers Newsletter to stay on top of all our cool neurocareers news at updates https://www.neuroapproaches.org/neurocareers-news  

Broadcast from KSQD, Santa Cruz on 5-22-2025: Dr. Dawn explores groundbreaking cancer research using high-throughput "digital twin" analysis to reverse colon cancer cells back to normal states, identifying three master molecular switches that can induce normal cell differentiation without killing the cancer cells, thus avoiding traditional chemotherapy side effects. She discusses remarkable results from Memorial Sloan Kettering showing 80% of patients with mismatch repair deficient tumors, including all 49 rectal cancer patients, saw complete tumor disappearance after six months of dostarlimab immunotherapy, with no recurrence at five years and minimal side effects. The program covers innovative CRISPR applications, including targeting previously "undruggable" cancer mutations like KRAS and BRAF by selectively degrading mutant RNA messages while preserving healthy genes, offering unprecedented precision in cancer treatment. Dr. Dawn explains a clever immunotherapy approach that disguises tumors as pig organs using Newcastle disease virus carrying alpha-gal enzyme, tricking the immune system into mounting fierce attacks against cancer cells, showing promising results in both monkey and human trials. She describes fascinating research using cryoshocked tumor cells as Trojan horses, where liquid nitrogen-treated cancer cells carrying CRISPR gene editing tools directly seek out tumors, offering superior targeting compared to injecting CRISPR. The show reveals how cancers create protective acid walls around themselves to repel immune cells, with individual cancer cells pumping lactic acid away from the tumor center to form pH 5.3 barriers that kill attacking CD8 T cells within hours. Dr. Dawn discusses breakthrough mRNA cancer vaccines for glioblastoma using patients' own tumor cells, showing rapid immune system activation within 48 hours and extending survival in both dogs and humans with this aggressive brain cancer. She explores the "flower code" mechanism where cancer cells gaslight healthy cells through epigenetic manipulation, expressing dominant "flower win" codes to overpower normal cells expressing "flower lose" codes in biological turf wars. The program addresses systemic problems in cancer classification, explaining how organ-based categorization delays access to effective treatments, with patients waiting years for drugs that could help based on molecular profiles rather than tumor location. Dr. Dawn concludes by highlighting medical discrimination against people with Duffy null phenotype, primarily affecting African Americans, whose naturally lower neutrophil counts lead to reduced chemotherapy doses and excluded clinical trial participation despite no increased infection risk.

Broadcast from KSQD, Santa Cruz on 5-22-2025: Dr. Dawn explores groundbreaking cancer research using high-throughput "digital twin" analysis to reverse colon cancer cells back to normal states, identifying three master molecular switches that can induce normal cell differentiation without killing the cancer cells, thus avoiding traditional chemotherapy side effects. She discusses remarkable results from Memorial Sloan Kettering showing 80% of patients with mismatch repair deficient tumors, including all 49 rectal cancer patients, saw complete tumor disappearance after six months of dostarlimab immunotherapy, with no recurrence at five years and minimal side effects. The program covers innovative CRISPR applications, including targeting previously "undruggable" cancer mutations like KRAS and BRAF by selectively degrading mutant RNA messages while preserving healthy genes, offering unprecedented precision in cancer treatment. Dr. Dawn explains a clever immunotherapy approach that disguises tumors as pig organs using Newcastle disease virus carrying alpha-gal enzyme, tricking the immune system into mounting fierce attacks against cancer cells, showing promising results in both monkey and human trials. She describes fascinating research using cryoshocked tumor cells as Trojan horses, where liquid nitrogen-treated cancer cells carrying CRISPR gene editing tools directly seek out tumors, offering superior targeting compared to injecting CRISPR. The show reveals how cancers create protective acid walls around themselves to repel immune cells, with individual cancer cells pumping lactic acid away from the tumor center to form pH 5.3 barriers that kill attacking CD8 T cells within hours. Dr. Dawn discusses breakthrough mRNA cancer vaccines for glioblastoma using patients' own tumor cells, showing rapid immune system activation within 48 hours and extending survival in both dogs and humans with this aggressive brain cancer. She explores the "flower code" mechanism where cancer cells gaslight healthy cells through epigenetic manipulation, expressing dominant "flower win" codes to overpower normal cells expressing "flower lose" codes in biological turf wars. The program addresses systemic problems in cancer classification, explaining how organ-based categorization delays access to effective treatments, with patients waiting years for drugs that could help based on molecular profiles rather than tumor location. Dr. Dawn concludes by highlighting medical discrimination against people with Duffy null phenotype, primarily affecting African Americans, whose naturally lower neutrophil counts lead to reduced chemotherapy doses and excluded clinical trial participation despite no increased infection risk.

Scientists have engineered small, targeted proteins that can penetrate brain cancer cells and prevent them from invading healthy tissue, offering a promising new approach to treating glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), one of the deadliest forms of brain cancer. This strategy was developed by researchers at the University of Nevada, Reno, and published recently in Oncotarget. The Challenge of Treating Glioblastoma Multiforme Glioblastoma is an aggressive and fast-growing brain tumor that infiltrates healthy brain tissue, making complete surgical removal nearly impossible. Standard treatments like chemotherapy and radiation can slow its growth but rarely prevent it from returning. One major reason for this invasiveness is a group of enzymes known as matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), which break down surrounding tissue to allow cancer cells to spread. Among these, MMP-9 plays a particularly important role in driving tumor progression and resisting existing therapies. Attempts to block MMPs using small-molecule drugs have failed in clinical trials due to problems like poor selectivity and harmful side effects. Researchers have been searching for safer, more targeted methods to interfere with these enzymes and limit glioblastoma's spread. The Study: Engineered Proteins to Inhibit Tumor Invasion In the study called “Effect of TIMPs and their minimally engineered variants in blocking invasion and migration of brain cancer cells,” researchers Elham Taheri and Maryam Raeeszadeh-Sarmazdeh investigated tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs), which are natural blockers of MMPs, and their engineered modified versions made to work better. Specifically, the team studied TIMP-1, TIMP-3, along with two engineered molecules, mTC1 and mTC3, in laboratory cell models of GBM. Full blog - https://www.oncotarget.org/2025/05/21/engineered-proteins-show-promise-in-stopping-glioblastoma-invasion/ Paper DOI - https://doi.org/10.18632/oncotarget.28691 Correspondence to - Maryam Raeeszadeh-Sarmazdeh - maryamr@unr.edu Video short - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tdBlkOX50D8 Sign up for free Altmetric alerts about this article - https://oncotarget.altmetric.com/details/email_updates?id=10.18632%2Foncotarget.28691 Subscribe for free publication alerts from Oncotarget - https://www.oncotarget.com/subscribe/ Keywords - cancer, TIMP minimal variants, glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), brain cancer, MMP inhibitors To learn more about Oncotarget, please visit https://www.oncotarget.com and connect with us: Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Oncotarget/ X - https://twitter.com/oncotarget Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/oncotargetjrnl/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@OncotargetJournal LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/oncotarget Pinterest - https://www.pinterest.com/oncotarget/ Reddit - https://www.reddit.com/user/Oncotarget/ Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/0gRwT6BqYWJzxzmjPJwtVh MEDIA@IMPACTJOURNALS.COM

From Brain Tumor to Bold Faith: Karen's Journey Through Surgery, Glioblastoma & God's Grace In this moving episode of the Fast to Faith Podcast, Karen Bartram shares her unbelievable story—from a small limp and fine motor issues to a devastating diagnosis of a grade 4 glioblastoma. What began as a suspicion of a pinched nerve turned into an emergency room visit, brain surgery, and a life-changing faith journey.Karen walks us through her awake craniotomy, the moments of fear and surrender, and how years of prioritizing her health and spiritual growth prepared her for this unexpected battle. She opens up about combining conventional treatment with holistic healing, and the role prayer, perseverance, and community have played in her resilience. If you've ever wondered where God is in your pain, Karen's story is proof He's been preparing you all along.If you liked this episode, watch it on YouTube!

In this episode of Research Renaissance, host Deborah Westphal sits down with Dr. Frank Furnari, professor of medicine at UC San Diego and co-director of the Brain Tumor Program at the Sanford Stem Cell Institute. Together, they explore one of the most aggressive and complex cancers known to medicine—glioblastoma—and the innovative tools his team is developing to study and treat it.

Dr. Doug Burton refuses to let brain cancer define his days. With unwavering courage, he's embracing every moment, determined to make the most of his time. Now, he's opening up about the groundbreaking treatments that are giving him more chances to laugh, love, and create lasting memories with his family.

ReferencesCureus.2023 Nov 27;15(11):e49521Cell Reports Medicine2024  V5, Issue 91017 28 September 17, Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab.2013 Feb 12;304(8):E789–E799Guerra, DJ 2025 Unpublished lectures Nardini, Veracini, and Locatelli. 1740's. Violin Sonatas.https://open.spotify.com/album/1bVy95FlClPhHgUMEurvhz?si=VEr5xm4oRB6zGwGwtIAAWg

referencesCureus. 2023 Nov27;15(11):e49521Cell Reports Medicine 2024 V5, Issue 91017 28 September 17, Nature Communications | (2022) 13:6781Cancer Cell. 2020 Jul 9;38(2):167–197.Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab.2013 Feb 12;304(8):E789–E799.Hunter/Garcia et al.1975. "Blues for Allah" lp. Grateful Dead.https://open.spotify.com/album/5BwjVdVJ4aOmbIYomznfCv?si=1k4STRnoR4SAxG3DVrO0IAHaydn, M. "Requiem in C Minorhttps://open.spotify.com/album/0lr5buO8BDuJGQhBeTgzfR?si=HLCnU3JBSKu596rKZ96eiQ

Season 4 of Glioblastoma aka GBM kicks off Brain Tumor Awareness Month with a closer look at CeGaT, a genetic diagnostics company based in Tübingen, Germany. Founded in 2009 by Dr. Saskia Biskup and Dirk Biskup, CeGaT focuses on identifying rare diseases and tumor-specific mutations through advanced sequencing technologies. In this episode, we speak with Dr. Biskup and Florian Battke, Head of Research & Development, about what genetic sequencing is, how it's used in the context of brain tumors, and what they see as the next frontier for diagnosing and treating diseases like glioblastoma. We discuss how long-read sequencing may offer greater accuracy in identifying genetic changes and what that could mean for patients navigating difficult diagnoses. This episode explores the broader role that genomics can play in brain cancer research and the questions still left to answer as science continues to evolve. To learn more about the work CeGaT is doing, visit them online at https://cegat.com/ This episode is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for guidance specific to your health or treatment plan.

ReferencesActa Pharm Sin B. 2022 Dec;12(12):4390-4406Cell Death Discov . 2023 Dec 12;9:451.JBC 1997. Volume 272, Issue 36p22432-22437SeptemberCell Metab. 2012 Jun 6;15(6):813–826.Int J Mol Sci. 2022 May 26;23(11):5978Hayward, J. 1967. "The Afternoon " from: Days of future Passed lp.https://open.spotify.com/track/4uCFK6Lm1gA3MaIbSRhIfS?si=48ccbe6f079e469fMcQuinn, R. 1970. "Pale Blue" Byrds lp :Byrdmaniax.https://open.spotify.com/track/46D9uj48T6E8xlSKLv4cEU?si=495da777c73c4929Mozart, WA. 1788. Divertimento in E flat Major. K 563https://open.spotify.com/album/5yxpvtJJTlKUMtUtl9nBcm?si=zc_K0IlzRqOzVVatZs_Pkw

ReferencesCell Death Discov . 2023 Dec 12; 9:451JBC 2025.in Press 10854 . 4AprilActa Pharm Sin B. 2022 Dec;12(12):4390-4406https://www.genecards.org/cgi-bin/carddisp.pl?gene=NAT10Lamm, R. 1972 Dialogues 1&2 Chicago V.https://open.spotify.com/track/6FYcpCjvjTFlKRSSmh13lX?si=04550ed93c724d46Anderson, I. 1972. "Thick as a Brick pt 1. "https://open.spotify.com/track/0eufeeCADKlpxLA7HATWBW?si=23c1fd6f96984c15Schubert, F. 1816;1822. Symphonies 5&8https://open.spotify.com/album/60ozSapXWEc6PZWDh3tllN?si=orEE14UOQvmsDWYYtljvSA

ReferencesJournal of Biological Chemistry 2013. 28.8 52 :37355-37364 Neuro Oncol . 2020 Mar5;22(3):333-344.Front. Cell. Neurosci., 2018 27 NovemberCell Metabolism 2016. Volume 23, Issue 2, Pages 303-314JBC in Press 2025. 10854. 4April. Mydland, B. 1989. "I will Take You Home" Grateful Deadhttps://open.spotify.com/track/1Q3AmIjEbPYemA6UkjUUu0?si=3301b3057df94e04Joel, B. 1979. "Until the Night"https://open.spotify.com/track/3UzWjLQVzCG60gwJdApLqI?si=c0a9ded856c941cdSimon, P. 1965. "April Come She Will"https://open.spotify.com/track/0djZ2ndRfAL69WYNra5jRC?si=da8581de131448b2Mozart, WA. 1787. et al. Symphony 25 K.183 in G minor , plus symphonies 28, and 29https://open.spotify.com/album/3qhUJTpkFjDeM49QidGMQb?si=iUpvUWNfSlyWGSzgvjDKLg

Thank you for joining me for the final bonus episode in this series in which I've been sharing our family's experiences in the last year of our daughter Hannah's life, which spanned from February 2008 through February 2009.  I'll be completing the series today with a wrap-up about the ministry which developed out of Hannah's homegoing.   As always, my desire is to give glory to God and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.  I'm so grateful you've joined me over this past year … Your listens and your kind comments have been a blessing to my heart. Click HERE for more information about the While We're Waiting ministry or to register for one of our free retreats.  We'd love to have the opportunity to serve you at an event!I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message!** IMPORTANT** - All views expressed by guests on this podcast are theirs alone, and may not represent the Statement of Faith and Statement of Beliefs of the While We're Waiting ministry. We'd love for you to connect with us here at While We're Waiting! Click HERE to visit our website and learn about our free While We're Waiting Weekends for bereaved parentsClick HERE to learn more about our network of While We're Waiting support groups all across the country. Click HERE to subscribe to our YouTube channelClick HERE to follow our public Facebook pageClick HERE to follow us on Instagram Click HERE to follow us on Twitter Click HERE to make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministryContact Jill by email at: jill@whilewerewaiting.org

A friend of ours got us connected with an architect who donated his time and drew up a plan for our dream retreat center.  The facility would incorporate the existing house, adding a large dining room, a commercial kitchen, and ten private guest rooms, each with its own bathroom.  No more bunk beds with creaky plastic mattresses or shared bathrooms!  This gentleman created a beautiful concept drawing and presented it to us one snowy Sunday afternoon.  Then he told us the estimated cost ... One MILLION dollars!  We had $3,000 in our While We're Waiting bank account.  Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode in this series in which I've been sharing our family's experiences in the last year of our daughter Hannah's life, which spanned from February 2008 through February 2009.  This series would not be complete without a discussion of the ministry which developed out of Hannah's homegoing.  If you'll indulge me for a few more bonus episodes, I'd like to share how God used Hannah's storm to birth the While We're Waiting ministry to bereaved parents.  As always, my desire is to give glory to God and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.  I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message!** IMPORTANT** - All views expressed by guests on this podcast are theirs alone, and may not represent the Statement of Faith and Statement of Beliefs of the While We're Waiting ministry. We'd love for you to connect with us here at While We're Waiting! Click HERE to visit our website and learn about our free While We're Waiting Weekends for bereaved parentsClick HERE to learn more about our network of While We're Waiting support groups all across the country. Click HERE to subscribe to our YouTube channelClick HERE to follow our public Facebook pageClick HERE to follow us on Instagram Click HERE to follow us on Twitter Click HERE to make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministryContact Jill by email at: jill@whilewerewaiting.org

For three years, we had wonderful bereaved-parent retreats at Family Farm.  As awareness began to grow about the ministry via word-of-mouth, internet searches, and our Facebook presence, our waiting lists also began to grow.  Even with adding more retreat dates at other locations, we could no longer keep up with the demand for these events.And as wonderful as Family Farm is, it was not an ideal location for the types of retreats we were hosting.  After all, it was a children's camp ... complete with bunk rooms filled with bunk beds.  Definitely not ideal for a grieving parent retreat.  Family Farm is also a very busy place, and was only available to us twice a year.So we began to consider some other options.  The ultimate solution would be to have our own retreat facility ... a place where we could host as many events as we needed to, where our attendees could enjoy the privacy of their own rooms and feel comfortable and at home from the moment they walked in the door.Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode in this series in which I've been sharing our family's experiences in the last year of our daughter Hannah's life, which spanned from February 2008 through February 2009.  This series would not be complete without a discussion of the ministry which developed out of Hannah's homegoing.  If you'll indulge me for a few more bonus episodes, I'd like to share how God used Hannah's storm to birth the While We're Waiting ministry to bereaved parents.  As always, my desire is to give glory to God and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.  I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message!** IMPORTANT** - All views expressed by guests on this podcast are theirs alone, and may not represent the Statement of Faith and Statement of Beliefs of the While We're Waiting ministry. We'd love for you to connect with us here at While We're Waiting! Click HERE to visit our website and learn about our free While We're Waiting Weekends for bereaved parentsClick HERE to learn more about our network of While We're Waiting support groups all across the country. Click HERE to subscribe to our YouTube channelClick HERE to follow our public Facebook pageClick HERE to follow us on Instagram Click HERE to follow us on Twitter Click HERE to make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministryContact Jill by email at: jill@whilewerewaiting.org

That first bereaved-parent retreat in April of 2011 turned out to be above and beyond all we could have ever asked or imagined.  We knew from our experience at the Respite Retreat what God could do when a group of like-minded bereaved parents got together ... but this first While We're Waiting Weekend was such a sweet confirmation of what we believed God was calling us to do.Buoyed by the success of this first event, we quickly scheduled our next retreat for November of 2011.  And you know what?  That retreat almost didn't "make." Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode in this series in which I've been sharing our family's experiences in the last year of our daughter Hannah's life, which spanned from February 2008 through February 2009.  This series would not be complete without a discussion of the ministry which developed out of Hannah's homegoing.  If you'll indulge me for a few more bonus episodes, I'd like to share how God used Hannah's storm to birth the While We're Waiting ministry to bereaved parents.  As always, my desire is to give glory to God and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.  I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message!** IMPORTANT** - All views expressed by guests on this podcast are theirs alone, and may not represent the Statement of Faith and Statement of Beliefs of the While We're Waiting ministry. We'd love for you to connect with us here at While We're Waiting! Click HERE to visit our website and learn about our free While We're Waiting Weekends for bereaved parentsClick HERE to learn more about our network of While We're Waiting support groups all across the country. Click HERE to subscribe to our YouTube channelClick HERE to follow our public Facebook pageClick HERE to follow us on Instagram Click HERE to follow us on Twitter Click HERE to make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministryContact Jill by email at: jill@whilewerewaiting.org

Over the next few months, we met frequently to discuss plans and pray about our upcoming retreat for bereaved parents.  Several times we drove out to Family Farm and included Stan and Donna May in our planning meetings.Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode in this series in which I've been sharing our family's experiences in the last year of our daughter Hannah's life, which spanned from February 2008 through February 2009.  This series would not be complete without a discussion of the ministry which developed out of Hannah's homegoing.  If you'll indulge me for a few more bonus episodes, I'd like to share how God used Hannah's storm to birth the While We're Waiting ministry to bereaved parents.  As always, my desire is to give glory to God and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way. I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message!** IMPORTANT** - All views expressed by guests on this podcast are theirs alone, and may not represent the Statement of Faith and Statement of Beliefs of the While We're Waiting ministry. We'd love for you to connect with us here at While We're Waiting! Click HERE to visit our website and learn about our free While We're Waiting Weekends for bereaved parentsClick HERE to learn more about our network of While We're Waiting support groups all across the country. Click HERE to subscribe to our YouTube channelClick HERE to follow our public Facebook pageClick HERE to follow us on Instagram Click HERE to follow us on Twitter Click HERE to make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministryContact Jill by email at: jill@whilewerewaiting.org

Brad and I returned home from the Respite Retreat still basking in the glow of the new relationships we'd formed, the things we'd learned from spending time with other bereaved parents, and a renewed hope that it was still possible to have joy in life in spite of our great loss. We had a strong sense that God was calling us into a similar type ministry for those who had lost children, but we had no idea how to move forward with it.  We talked about it a lot, and we sought God's direction, but we just didn't have any kind of catalyst to push us forward. Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode in this series in which I've been sharing our family's experiences in the last year of our daughter Hannah's life, which spanned from February 2008 through February 2009.  This series would not be complete without a discussion of the ministry which developed out of Hannah's homegoing.  If you'll indulge me for a few more bonus episodes, I'd like to share how God used Hannah's storm to birth the While We're Waiting ministry to bereaved parents.  As always, my desire is to give glory to God and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way. I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message!** IMPORTANT** - All views expressed by guests on this podcast are theirs alone, and may not represent the Statement of Faith and Statement of Beliefs of the While We're Waiting ministry. We'd love for you to connect with us here at While We're Waiting! Click HERE to visit our website and learn about our free While We're Waiting Weekends for bereaved parentsClick HERE to learn more about our network of While We're Waiting support groups all across the country. Click HERE to subscribe to our YouTube channelClick HERE to follow our public Facebook pageClick HERE to follow us on Instagram Click HERE to follow us on Twitter Click HERE to make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministryContact Jill by email at: jill@whilewerewaiting.org

Even though I didn't really want to go, and this thing was way outside my comfort zone, Brad and I signed up for the Respite Retreat scheduled for Labor Day Weekend in September of 2010.  We couldn't have known at the time what a profound impact it would have on our lives.  Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode in this series in which I've been sharing our family's experiences in the last year of our daughter Hannah's life, which spanned from February 2008 through February 2009.  This series would not be complete without a discussion of the ministry which developed out of Hannah's homegoing.  If you'll indulge me for a few more bonus episodes, I'd like to share how God used Hannah's storm to birth the While We're Waiting ministry to bereaved parents.  As always, my desire is to give glory to God and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way. I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message!** IMPORTANT** - All views expressed by guests on this podcast are theirs alone, and may not represent the Statement of Faith and Statement of Beliefs of the While We're Waiting ministry. We'd love for you to connect with us here at While We're Waiting! Click HERE to visit our website and learn about our free While We're Waiting Weekends for bereaved parentsClick HERE to learn more about our network of While We're Waiting support groups all across the country. Click HERE to subscribe to our YouTube channelClick HERE to follow our public Facebook pageClick HERE to follow us on Instagram Click HERE to follow us on Twitter Click HERE to make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministryContact Jill by email at: jill@whilewerewaiting.org

During the final days of Hannah's life, many people dropped by the hospice center and left books, gifts, food, and other items for our family.  These kindnesses were so greatly appreciated.Most of these gifts were accompanied by a card indicating who had given them.  But one gift, a book called "Holding On To Hope" by Nancy Guthrie, was accompanied by a card signed only with the initials "plc".  The anonymous person who brought that gift could not have foreseen what an impact it would have in our lives. Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode in this series in which I've been sharing our family's experiences in the last year of our daughter Hannah's life, which spanned from February 2008 through February 2009.  This series would not be complete without a discussion of the ministry which developed out of Hannah's homegoing.  If you'll indulge me for a few more bonus episodes, I'd like to share how God used Hannah's storm to birth the While We're Waiting ministry to bereaved parents.  As always, my desire is to give glory to God and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.  I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message!** IMPORTANT** - All views expressed by guests on this podcast are theirs alone, and may not represent the Statement of Faith and Statement of Beliefs of the While We're Waiting ministry. We'd love for you to connect with us here at While We're Waiting! Click HERE to visit our website and learn about our free While We're Waiting Weekends for bereaved parentsClick HERE to learn more about our network of While We're Waiting support groups all across the country. Click HERE to subscribe to our YouTube channelClick HERE to follow our public Facebook pageClick HERE to follow us on Instagram Click HERE to follow us on Twitter Click HERE to make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministryContact Jill by email at: jill@whilewerewaiting.org

Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode in this series in which I've been sharing our family's experiences in the last year of our daughter Hannah's life, which spanned from February 2008 through February 2009.  This series would not be complete without a discussion of the ministry which developed out of Hannah's homegoing.  If you'll indulge me for a few more bonus episodes, I'd like to share how God used Hannah's storm to birth the While We're Waiting ministry to bereaved parents.  As always, my desire is to give glory to God and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.  I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message!** IMPORTANT** - All views expressed by guests on this podcast are theirs alone, and may not represent the Statement of Faith and Statement of Beliefs of the While We're Waiting ministry. We'd love for you to connect with us here at While We're Waiting! Click HERE to visit our website and learn about our free While We're Waiting Weekends for bereaved parentsClick HERE to learn more about our network of While We're Waiting support groups all across the country. Click HERE to subscribe to our YouTube channelClick HERE to follow our public Facebook pageClick HERE to follow us on Instagram Click HERE to follow us on Twitter Click HERE to make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministryContact Jill by email at: jill@whilewerewaiting.org

There never really was any question where Hannah's body would be buried.  There's a beautiful cemetery in Briggsville, Arkansas, where the Sullivan family farm is located.   Hannah spent many happy days at the farm ... hunting, riding 4-wheelers, and just hanging out with her cousins. Occasionally, we would stop at that cemetery and visit the graves of her great grandparents and other relatives. She always loved to walk around and read all the different headstones. It's a beautiful country cemetery, on a hillside with lots of trees and a gorgeous view. We knew that was the right place.Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family's experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009.  My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message!** IMPORTANT** - All views expressed by guests on this podcast are theirs alone, and may not represent the Statement of Faith and Statement of Beliefs of the While We're Waiting ministry. We'd love for you to connect with us here at While We're Waiting! Click HERE to visit our website and learn about our free While We're Waiting Weekends for bereaved parentsClick HERE to learn more about our network of While We're Waiting support groups all across the country. Click HERE to subscribe to our YouTube channelClick HERE to follow our public Facebook pageClick HERE to follow us on Instagram Click HERE to follow us on Twitter Click HERE to make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministryContact Jill by email at: jill@whilewerewaiting.org

Hannah's life was celebrated at First Baptist Church in Hot Springs on this date sixteen years ago.   We had two goals for the service -- to honor Hannah's life and to point people to Jesus.I remember stepping into the church building feeling so very raw and exposed.  Even though Hannah's death was not a surprise, it was a shock, and I was very much still reeling from effects of that shock.  Walking down that long aisle to be seated in the front row was an incredibly surreal experience. Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family's experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009.  My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message!** IMPORTANT** - All views expressed by guests on this podcast are theirs alone, and may not represent the Statement of Faith and Statement of Beliefs of the While We're Waiting ministry. We'd love for you to connect with us here at While We're Waiting! Click HERE to visit our website and learn about our free While We're Waiting Weekends for bereaved parentsClick HERE to learn more about our network of While We're Waiting support groups all across the country. Click HERE to subscribe to our YouTube channelClick HERE to follow our public Facebook pageClick HERE to follow us on Instagram Click HERE to follow us on Twitter Click HERE to make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministryContact Jill by email at: jill@whilewerewaiting.org

As I've been looking back through all the emails passing back and forth between the newspaper, our friends and family, the church staff, etc., that went on in those days immediately following Hannah's homegoing, I'm struck by how "together" I appeared to be.  My communication skills were intact and I was generally coherent, but I remember none of it.Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family's experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009.  My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message!** IMPORTANT** - All views expressed by guests on this podcast are theirs alone, and may not represent the Statement of Faith and Statement of Beliefs of the While We're Waiting ministry. We'd love for you to connect with us here at While We're Waiting! Click HERE to visit our website and learn about our free While We're Waiting Weekends for bereaved parentsClick HERE to learn more about our network of While We're Waiting support groups all across the country. Click HERE to subscribe to our YouTube channelClick HERE to follow our public Facebook pageClick HERE to follow us on Instagram Click HERE to follow us on Twitter Click HERE to make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministryContact Jill by email at: jill@whilewerewaiting.org

Most families don't have the opportunity to prepare for their child's death the way we did.  We had known for a year that Hannah's cancer could be fatal, and even though we prayed earnestly for earthly healing, we knew from the beginning that God may choose to heal her in Heaven.  And, of course, we eventually reached the point where we knew her death was a certainty unless He dramatically intervened. So in the final days of her life, we frequently discussed what her actual passing might be like.  We'd been assured that it would be peaceful ending when the tumors on her brainstorm caused her to simply cease breathing, and that's how we imagined it.  It would be a beautiful moment as we sang hymns around her bed, maybe even getting a glimpse of a smile on her face as she got her first peek into Heaven.  As you know from yesterday's episode, this was not the case.Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family's experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009.  My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message!** IMPORTANT** - All views expressed by guests on this podcast are theirs alone, and may not represent the Statement of Faith and Statement of Beliefs of the While We're Waiting ministry. We'd love for you to connect with us here at While We're Waiting! Click HERE to visit our website and learn about our free While We're Waiting Weekends for bereaved parentsClick HERE to learn more about our network of While We're Waiting support groups all across the country. Click HERE to subscribe to our YouTube channelClick HERE to follow our public Facebook pageClick HERE to follow us on Instagram Click HERE to follow us on Twitter Click HERE to make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministryContact Jill by email at: jill@whilewerewaiting.org

I woke with a start ten years ago today.  I had slept for several hours without interruption, which had not happened in a long time.  It scared me, and I immediately jumped up to check on Hannah.  She had slept all night, and was still sleeping.  She looked different somehow; better, in fact.  She was sleeping in a more naturally relaxed position and her color seemed to be improved.  Brad came into the room about that time (he and Bethany were staying in a room right next door) and he also thought she seemed better ... Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family's experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009.  My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message!** IMPORTANT** - All views expressed by guests on this podcast are theirs alone, and may not represent the Statement of Faith and Statement of Beliefs of the While We're Waiting ministry. We'd love for you to connect with us here at While We're Waiting! Click HERE to visit our website and learn about our free While We're Waiting Weekends for bereaved parentsClick HERE to learn more about our network of While We're Waiting support groups all across the country. Click HERE to subscribe to our YouTube channelClick HERE to follow our public Facebook pageClick HERE to follow us on Instagram Click HERE to follow us on Twitter Click HERE to make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministryContact Jill by email at: jill@whilewerewaiting.org

The entire time we were at the hospice center had a distinct air of unreality.  The fact that we had reached the point where we were re-living the anniversaries of the events which had brought us to this place just added to that sense of illusion.  Surely this wasn't happening to our family.  Surely this was all some kind of crazy dream.  Surely Hannah was going to be fine. But no ... there we were, in a hospice center with our 17-year-old daughter whose grasp on this life was becoming more tenuous. Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family's experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009.  My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message!** IMPORTANT** - All views expressed by guests on this podcast are theirs alone, and may not represent the Statement of Faith and Statement of Beliefs of the While We're Waiting ministry. We'd love for you to connect with us here at While We're Waiting! Click HERE to visit our website and learn about our free While We're Waiting Weekends for bereaved parentsClick HERE to learn more about our network of While We're Waiting support groups all across the country. Click HERE to subscribe to our YouTube channelClick HERE to follow our public Facebook pageClick HERE to follow us on Instagram Click HERE to follow us on Twitter Click HERE to make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministryContact Jill by email at: jill@whilewerewaiting.org

It's a very surreal thing to write an obituary for your own child.  It's even more surreal when your child is sitting beside you as you write it.After Hannah's doctor confirmed that there was nothing else medically that could be done for her and that unless God intervened in a miraculous way she would be going to Heaven soon, I decided to begin making preparations for her funeral.  If you know me you know I'm a planner by nature, so this was not unusual although the situation certainly was.  I was afraid that once Hannah left for Heaven I would be too distraught to think clearly enough to plan something so important.Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family's experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009.  My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message!** IMPORTANT** - All views expressed by guests on this podcast are theirs alone, and may not represent the Statement of Faith and Statement of Beliefs of the While We're Waiting ministry. We'd love for you to connect with us here at While We're Waiting! Click HERE to visit our website and learn about our free While We're Waiting Weekends for bereaved parentsClick HERE to learn more about our network of While We're Waiting support groups all across the country. Click HERE to subscribe to our YouTube channelClick HERE to follow our public Facebook pageClick HERE to follow us on Instagram Click HERE to follow us on Twitter Click HERE to make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministryContact Jill by email at: jill@whilewerewaiting.org

It's one of the most ancient of all questions, “Why does a good God allow people to suffer in this world?  We're left with three options, and my email from sixteen years ago today discusses them.  Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family's experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009.  My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message!** IMPORTANT** - All views expressed by guests on this podcast are theirs alone, and may not represent the Statement of Faith and Statement of Beliefs of the While We're Waiting ministry. We'd love for you to connect with us here at While We're Waiting! Click HERE to visit our website and learn about our free While We're Waiting Weekends for bereaved parentsClick HERE to learn more about our network of While We're Waiting support groups all across the country. Click HERE to subscribe to our YouTube channelClick HERE to follow our public Facebook pageClick HERE to follow us on Instagram Click HERE to follow us on Twitter Click HERE to make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministryContact Jill by email at: jill@whilewerewaiting.org

On this day sixteen years ago, Hannah received two surprise phone calls, both from well-known musicians who had played a significant role in her life.  Each of them spoke words of encouragement and and gave us special memories with Hannah that we will always treasure.  Thank you for joining me for another bonus episode of the While We're Waiting podcast in this year-long series in which I share our family's experiences as our teenage daughter Hannah battled glioblastoma brain cancer from February 2008 through February 2009.  My desire is to process through the events of those twelve months with the perspective that 16 years has brought … and point listeners to hope in Jesus along the way.I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message!** IMPORTANT** - All views expressed by guests on this podcast are theirs alone, and may not represent the Statement of Faith and Statement of Beliefs of the While We're Waiting ministry. We'd love for you to connect with us here at While We're Waiting! Click HERE to visit our website and learn about our free While We're Waiting Weekends for bereaved parentsClick HERE to learn more about our network of While We're Waiting support groups all across the country. Click HERE to subscribe to our YouTube channelClick HERE to follow our public Facebook pageClick HERE to follow us on Instagram Click HERE to follow us on Twitter Click HERE to make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministryContact Jill by email at: jill@whilewerewaiting.org