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I'm Still Here: Lessons from Life with Metastatic Breast Cancer with Heather Jose
At 26 years old, I was diagnosed with metastatic (stage 4) breast cancer — a moment that changed everything in an instant.In Part 1 of my story, I share what led up to my diagnosis, the shock of hearing the words “stage four,” and what those early days of fear, uncertainty, and life-altering decisions were really like.This isn't a clinical cancer story.It's the human side — the emotions, the questions, the grief, and the beginning of learning how to live inside a life I never planned for.If you're newly diagnosed, supporting someone you love, or walking through something that feels overwhelming, this episode is for you.Part 2 will dive into how those early experiences shaped the way I live fully with metastatic disease today.Available Now!
In this beautifully hopeful episode, Wren, the creator of the Living Our Breast Lives Podcast, is joined by the incredible Metastatic Breast Cancer Thriver, Heather Jose, the MBC thriver living with triple positive metastatic breast cancer for 27 YEARS! Heather Jose is a long-term metastatic breast cancer thriver, advocate, and the host of the podcast I'm Still Here: Lessons from Life with Metastatic Breast Cancer. Diagnosed at 26 and living with metastatic disease for over 25 years, Heather focuses on honest, grounded conversations about what it means to live fully — not just survive — alongside breast cancer. After her diagnosis, Heather went on to adopt a child, redefining what building a family can look like after metastatic breast cancer and showing that life doesn't stop at a diagnosis, it evolves. She has spent decades navigating treatment, motherhood, advocacy, and survivorship, all while helping others feel less alone.Listen to this episode as it breaks down:Who is Heather Jose? – Meeting the woman behind the diagnosisHer MBC story – Diagnosed in 1998, her subtype, and how she's still here decades laterThen vs. now – What MBC treatment looked like then and how far it's comeStrength without the pressure – The moments that carried her through and why the term "inspirational" comes with a heavy weight to itLiving with grief and joy – Mourning the life imagined while fully living the one she hasMotherhood after MBC – Infertility, adoption, and expanding her family against the odds“I'm Still Here” – Why Heather launched her podcast and who it's forLong-term survivorship – What it really means and what she's still dreaming of for the future Living Our Breast Lives Information:Email: livingourbreastlivespodcast1@gmail.comInstagram: @livingourbreastlivesFounder: Wren MorrobelPersonal Instagram: @wren_morrPodcast Guest Speaker: Heather Jose's Information:Email: mail@heatherjose.comInstagram: @heatherbjoseFacebook: Heather JoseWebsite: www.heatherjose.comYouTube: I'm Still Here
Join Melissa Berry as she welcomes Annie Bond, metastatic breast cancer thriver, advocate, and comedian, to share her first-time experience at SABCS 2025. Together, they explore the moments, conversations, and insights that matter most for metastatic patients and advocates, focusing on advocacy, representation, and the power of patient voices. This episode highlights the urgent need for more data and research in metastatic breast cancer and shows how patient advocacy can drive meaningful change. As part of the "Your Guide to SABCS" series, produced with the Triple Negative Breast Cancer Foundation and TOUCH The Black Breast Cancer Alliance, this episode offers a patient-led perspective on SABCS, demonstrating that the conference is about more than science. It emphasizes advancing metastatic breast cancer research and elevating the voices of those living with the disease. Thank you to BioNtech, Lilly, Gilead, AstraZeneca and Pfizer for making this episode possible.
I'm Still Here: Lessons from Life with Metastatic Breast Cancer with Heather Jose
In this special episode of I'm Still Here, Heather sits down with her son Ty to talk openly about his adoption journey, growing up as a brown child in a rural community, and what it's been like navigating identity, belonging, and difference.Ty shares his story of being adopted from India, what family means when you don't share DNA, and the moments that shaped how he sees himself and the world. Together, they talk about racism, being pulled over, finding confidence, developing empathy, and how music became Ty's way of expressing his life experiences.This is an honest, real conversation about growing up different, learning to be comfortable in your own skin, and finding your people — even when it isn't easy.Available Now!
I'm Still Here: Lessons from Life with Metastatic Breast Cancer with Heather Jose
Eat This, Not That — 2026 EditionWhat do I actually eat — and how do I think about food now?In this episode, Heather shares her Eat This, Not That — 2026 Edition, responding to one of the most common questions she gets. This is not about food rules, trends, or government guidelines — it's about real food, real life, and what helps her feel steady and energized while living with metastatic breast cancer.In this conversation, Heather talks about:Why she doesn't follow nutrition rules (even when new guidelines come out)The simple framework she uses instead: protein, fiber, and varietyEating real food, mostly plants — without rigidityConsistency over optimizationUsing ideas like “30 plants a week” as a gentle nudge, not a mandateLetting food support your life — not become another thing to manageThis episode is honest, practical, and grounded in lived experience — not extremes.Need a quick reset when life feels overwhelming?Heather's 15-minute guide, Break the Cancer Spiral, helps you steady your mindset anytime things start to spin.
In this podcast, experts William J. Gradishar, MD, FASCO, FACP; Stephanie L. Graff, MD, FACP, FASCO; and Cynthia X. Ma, MD, PhD; discuss current and emerging therapeutic options, including next-generation endocrine therapies, to target the estrogen receptor signaling pathway for the treatment of hormone receptor–positive/HER2-negative (HR+/HER2–) metastatic breast cancer (MBC).
In this podcast, experts Erika P. Hamilton, MD; Giuseppe Curigliano, MD, PhD; VK Gadi, MD, PhD; Jason Aboudi Mouabbi, MD, discuss frontline, second-line, and antibody-drug conjugate therapies for the treatment of HR-positive, HER2-negative metastatic breast cancer.
In this podcast, experts Sara A. Hurvitz, MD, FACP, Michelle Melisko, MD, and Paolo Tarantino, MD, PhD, discuss approaches to maintenance and subsequent lines of therapy for patients with HER2+ advanced breast cancer, including those with CNS metastases.
I'm Still Here: Lessons from Life with Metastatic Breast Cancer with Heather Jose
While cleaning and decluttering, Heather came across a stack of books that carried her through the early years of living with cancer. Some were informational. Some were inspirational. And some simply helped her feel seen.In this episode, Heather and Larry talk through those books—not as prescriptions or promises, but as companions during a time when reaching for anything steady mattered. They reflect on why certain voices, stories, and practices were helpful, how repetition and slowing down supported Heather's mindset, and how mental and emotional care became just as important as physical treatment.The conversation then expands into what building a “library” looks like today. Not just books—but audio, YouTube, meditation, journaling, saved resources, and non-cancer content that helps regulate fear, doubt, and overwhelm. Heather shares how she now thinks about choosing resources that feel safe, grounding, and accessible—and why what helps can (and should) change over time.This episode is an honest look at what it means to feed your mind with care, build a personal support library, and give yourself permission to reach for whatever helps you feel a little more steady.If you have books, videos, or resources that have helped you through a hard season, Heather invites you to share them—so we can help each other build libraries that hold us.Available Now!
I'm Still Here: Lessons from Life with Metastatic Breast Cancer with Heather Jose
A new year often comes with pressure to set goals, do more, and fix ourselves. But when you're living with metastatic breast cancer, that framework can feel exhausting — and disconnected from reality.In this New Year episode, we talk about a different way forward. One that starts by asking a more honest question:What do I need this year?Because when cancer doesn't reset on January 1st, the goal isn't reinvention — it's living.We explore:Why living with metastatic breast cancer is already enoughLetting go of “shoulds” and redefining progressShifting from performance to presenceCreating anchors instead of rigid routinesTrusting what your body and life are asking for right nowWhy rest matters — and why engagement still does tooThis is an honest, grounded conversation about living well with metastatic disease — without pretending it's easy, and without waiting for life to begin “after.”You're not behind.You're not broken.And you don't need to fix yourself to deserve a meaningful life.Living is the goal.
Featuring perspectives from Dr Lisa A Carey and Dr Rita Nanda, including the following topics: Overview: Molecular basis of antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) toxicities — Sequencing of ADCs and mechanisms of resistance (0:00) Case: A woman in her late 60s with localized triple-negative breast cancer develops myocarditis during neoadjuvant therapy with chemotherapy/pembrolizumab — Richard Zelkowitz, MD (8:22) Case: A woman in her mid 70s with recurrent ER-negative, HER2-low, PD-L1-positive metastatic breast cancer (mBC) who experiences disease progression on nab paclitaxel/atezolizumab responds to sacituzumab govitecan — Ranju Gupta, MD (26:43) Case: A woman in her early 80s with recurrent ER-positive, HER2-low (IHC 1+) mBC experiences disease progression on trastuzumab deruxtecan (T-DXd), then receives datopotamab deruxtecan and develops pulmonary symptoms — Laila Agrawal, MD (32:11) Data Review: T-DXd (37:51) Case: A woman in her early 70s with recurrent ER-positive, HER2-low (IHC 1+) mBC, including bladder metastases, experiences disease progression after palbociclib/letrozole, then capivasertib/fulvestrant, then nab paclitaxel — Justin Favaro, MD, PhD (44:02) Case: A woman in her late 70s with ER-positive, HER2-low mBC who experiences disease progression after 1 year of ribociclib/letrozole receives sacituzumab govitecan — Erik Rupard, MD (55:19) CME information and select publications
Dr Lisa A Carey from the UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, and Dr Rita Nanda from The University of Chicago in Illinois engage in an evidence-based discussion around real-world cases involving common toxicities associated with antibody-drug conjugates in the management of breast cancer.CME information and select publications here.
I'm Still Here: Lessons from Life with Metastatic Breast Cancer with Heather Jose
After 27 years of living with metastatic breast cancer, I attended the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium for the first time — not knowing what to expect, or even if I would feel like I belonged.What I found was something I didn't realize I'd been missing: connection, affirmation, and a growing movement focused not just on survival, but on living well with metastatic disease.In this episode, I share:What it was like attending SABCS as a patient advocateWhy quality of life matters just as much as treatment advancesHow patient advocacy is evolving — and where I see myself in itWhat it means to finally feel like these are my peopleThis conversation is about belonging, purpose, and using our voices — especially for those living with metastatic breast cancer who are navigating life beyond the early days of diagnosis.If you're living with cancer, supporting someone who is, or wondering how to keep moving forward when the path feels uncertain, this episode is for you.If you're looking for practical, compassionate support for living well with cancer, you can find my guides here:
"I'll go back to the backpack analogy. When your kids come home with a backpack, all of a sudden their homework is not on the desk where it's supposed to be. It's in the kitchen; it kind of spreads all over the place, but it's still in the house. When we give antibody–drug conjugates (ADCs), the chemotherapy does go in, but then it can kind of permeate out of the cell membrane and something right next to it—another cancer cell that might not look exactly like the cancer cell that the chemotherapy was delivered into—is affected and the chemotherapy goes over to that cancer cell and kills it," ONS member Marisha Pasteris, OCN®, office practice nurse in the breast medicine service at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York, NY, told Jaime Weimer, MSN, RN, AGCNS-BS, AOCNS®, manager of oncology nursing practice at ONS, during a conversation about ADCs in metastatic breast cancer. Music Credit: "Fireflies and Stardust" by Kevin MacLeod Licensed under Creative Commons by Attribution 3.0 This podcast is sponsored by Gilead and is not eligible for NCPD contact hours. ONS is solely responsible for the criteria, objectives, content, quality, and scientific integrity of its programs and publications. Episode Notes This episode is not eligible for NCPD. ONS Podcast™ episodes: Episode 391: Pharmacology 101: Antibody–Drug Conjugates Episode 378: Considerations for Adolescent and Young Adult Patients With Metastatic Breast Cancer Episode 368: Best Practices for Challenging Patient Conversations in Metastatic Breast Cancer Episode 350: Breast Cancer Treatment Considerations for Nurses Episode 303: Cancer Symptom Management Basics: Ocular Toxicities ONS Voice articles: An Oncology Nurse's Guide to Cancer-Related Ocular Toxicities Black Patients With Metastatic Breast Cancer Are Less Informed About Their Clinical Trial Options Communication Case Study: Talking to Patients About Progressive Metastatic Breast Cancer What Is HER2-Low Breast Cancer? ONS Voice drug reference sheets: Belantamab mafodotin-blmf Datopotamab deruxtecan-dlnk Enfortumab vedotin-ejfv Fam-trastuzumab deruxtecan-nxki ONS books: Chemotherapy and Immunotherapy Guidelines and Recommendations for Practice (second edition) Guide to Breast Care for Oncology Nurses Guide to Cancer Immunotherapy (second edition) ONS courses: ONS Fundamentals of Chemotherapy and Immunotherapy Administration™ ONS/ONCC® Chemotherapy Immunotherapy Certificate™ Clinical Journal of Oncology Nursing article: Antibody–Drug Conjugates and Ocular Toxicity: Nursing, Patient, and Organizational Implications for Care The Association Between Hormone Receptor Status and End-of-Life Care Among Patients With Metastatic Breast Cancer Oncology Nursing Forum article: Impact of Race and Area Deprivation on Triple-Negative Metastatic Breast Cancer Outcomes ONS huddle cards: Altered Body Image Huddle Card Chemotherapy Huddle Card Targeted Therapy Huddle Card Foundations of Antibody–Drug Conjugate Use in Metastatic Breast Cancer: A Case Study ONS Biomarker Database (refine by breast cancer) ONS Breast Cancer Learning Library American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) homepage Drugs@FDA package inserts National Comprehensive Cancer Network homepage Susan G. Komen metastatic breast cancer page To discuss the information in this episode with other oncology nurses, visit the ONS Communities. To find resources for creating an ONS Podcast club in your chapter or nursing community, visit the ONS Podcast Library. To provide feedback or otherwise reach ONS about the podcast, email pubONSVoice@ons.org. Highlights From This Episode "What an ADC is doing is taking the antibody and linking it to a cytotoxic chemotherapy with the idea of delivering it directly into the cell. How I explain this to new nurses or patients is a backpack analogy. If we think of it as a HER2 molecule wearing a chemo backpack, it's going to find the HER2 receptor attached to it and then drop the chemotherapy into the cell via the backpack. Similar to how we come home from work, we open the key to our door, we're carrying all of our items, and then we drop our own personal items in our house." TS 2:30 "The reason that so many patients with metastatic breast cancer are able to receive ADC therapy is because they are targeting two very common antibodies that we see in breast cancer. One is HER2 and the other is trophoblast cell surface antigen 2 (TROP2). These are seen across the board. We see these on triple-negative breast cancers, hormone receptor–positive cancers, and HER2-positive breast cancers. And now we have a new way to talk about HER2, which is a HER2-low. ... Recently, we have found that patients who express low levels of HER2 are able to receive ADC therapy, specifically fam-trastuzumab deruxtecan." TS 4:21 "Another [ADC] that has just been approved is datopotamab deruxtecan. This is another ADC that targets the TROP2 receptor on a cancer cell. This one carries a lot of side effects. I mentioned earlier that you need an ophthalmology clearance because there is a lot of ocular toxicity around this one. We see a lot of blepharitis, conjunctivitis, there can be blurred vision. Another thing we monitor on this one is mucositis. In the package insert, there's a recommendation for using ice chips while receiving the treatment. ... Then in the HER2-positive and HER2-low space is the big one, which is fam-trastuzumab deruxtecan. This was approved in 2019 for the HER2-positive patients, then more recently in the HER2-low [patients]. The big [side effect] with this one is interstitial lung disease." TS 10:11 "Interstitial lung disease is an inflammation or a little bit of fibrosis within the lung that causes an impaired exchange between the oxygen and carbon dioxide. This was seen in the clinical trials, specifically around fam-trastuzumab deruxtecan. During the trials, they had a very small percentage, I think it was 1%, that died due to interstitial lung disease. So, this is a very important side effect for us as nurses to be aware of. It typically presents in patients like a dyspnea. A lot of times, it's like, 'Well, I used to be able to walk my kid to the bus stop, but now when I walk there, I feel really short of breath.' Or 'I've had this dry cough for the past couple weeks and I've tried medications, but haven't had that relieved.' So, we really need to be aware of that because early intervention in interstitial lung disease is key." TS 12:57 "ADCs are toxic drugs. They have the benefit of being targeted, but we know that they carry a lot of side effects. ... Their specificity makes them so wonderful and we've seen amazing responses to these drugs. But also, we want patients to be safe. We want to give these drugs safely. So, we have to assess our patients and make sure that this is an appropriate patient to give this therapy to. I think that's an open conversation that clinicians need to have with patients regarding these drugs." TS 18:08
Join this program for relevant updates across the advanced and metastatic breast cancer (mBC) spectrum as presented in October 2025. Credit available for this activity expires: 12/8/26 Earn Credit / Learning Objectives & Disclosures: https://www.medscape.org/viewarticle/hot-topics-berlin-2025-what-experts-say-about-future-2025a1000x8r?ecd=bdc_podcast_libsyn_mscpedu
I'm Still Here: Lessons from Life with Metastatic Breast Cancer with Heather Jose
The holidays hit different when you're living with cancer. In this honest and heartfelt conversation, Heather and Larry talk about the emotional weight of the season — the pressure to make everything perfect “just in case,” the anxiety that comes with big family gatherings, and the guilt of not being able to keep up with old traditions.They dive into boundaries, expectations, caregiver dynamics, and the internal struggle of wanting to savor the moments while also feeling overwhelmed by them. From navigating relatives' questions to simplifying holiday plans to protecting your energy, this episode is full of validation, humor, and practical ways to make this season more manageable.If you're dealing with metastatic breast cancer — or supporting someone who is — this one will help you feel seen, understood, and a little less alone.Available Now!
Featuring perspectives from Dr Komal Jhaveri and Dr Virginia Kaklamani, including the following topics: Introduction: Oral Selective Estrogen Receptor Degraders (SERDs) for the General Medical Oncologist (0:00) SERD Monotherapy (13:34) SERD and CDK Inhibitor Combination — The EMBER-3 Study (35:58) SERDs for "Molecular Progression" — The SERENA-6 Study (41:25) CME information and select publications
Dr Rinath M Jeselsohn and Dr Joyce O'Shaughnessy review current literature and datasets exploring the use of oral selective estrogen receptor degraders for the management of metastatic breast cancer. CME information and select publications here.
Vicki Durston from Breast Cancer Network Australia spoke with Mark Levy about recent findings into metastatic breast cancer numbers, with figures showing nearly double the amount of diagnoses. Durston also discussed the challenges of metastatic breast cancer, which is cancer that has spread from the breast to other parts of the body, and the challenges people face when it comes to dealing with it.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
I'm Still Here: Lessons from Life with Metastatic Breast Cancer with Heather Jose
In this episode, Heather opens the door to a conversation many people living with metastatic cancer think about privately — but rarely speak aloud:You are allowed to live.You are allowed to plan ahead.You are allowed to imagine a future that is yours.Heather shares how, at 26, she was told her life would narrow — that cancer meant shrinking dreams, shorter plans, smaller horizons. Twenty-seven years later, she is proof that life doesn't end where statistics suggest it should. It unfolds. It evolves. It can even expand.Inside this episode, we explore:
Did you know that education on self-monitoring when using oral selective estrogen receptor degraders can increase patient empowerment? Credit available for this activity expires: 11/21/2026 Earn Credit / Learning Objectives & Disclosures: https://www.medscape.org/viewarticle/communicating-enhance-care-through-data-and-patient-2025a1000uqi?ecd=bdc_podcast_libsyn_mscpedu
Featuring an interview with Dr Erika Hamilton, including the following topics: General overview of the mechanisms of action of endocrine-targeted therapies for breast cancer (0:00) Downregulation of estrogen receptor expression levels with endocrine therapy; therapeutic benefit of selective estrogen receptor degraders (SERDs) and proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) in ESR1 wild-type and ESR1-mutant breast cancer (5:11) Mechanisms of resistance to endocrine therapy (10:08) Efficacy and toxicities observed with SERDs and PROTACs for HR-positive breast cancer (15:26) Other applications for PROTACs (24:24) Emerging data from the Phase III evERA trial (27:38) Perspectives on clinical investigator and general medical oncologist practice pattern survey results (30:51) CME information and select publications
Dr Erika Hamilton from Sarah Cannon Research Institute in Nashville, Tennessee, reviews available clinical data with PROTAC estrogen receptor degraders and their potential role in the management of HR-positive metastatic breast cancer. CME information and select publications here.
I'm Still Here: Lessons from Life with Metastatic Breast Cancer with Heather Jose
Episode Description:The holidays are a mix of joy, chaos, and endless temptation — which makes it easy to say, “I'll just start over in January.” But what if you didn't have to throw in the towel?In this episode, Heather and Larry talk about how to stay intentional, flexible, and grounded through the holiday season — without giving up all the things you love. From choosing simple non-negotiables to moving your body (even a little), eating like you love yourself, and focusing on connection over perfection, they share what really helps you feel good through the busiest time of year.You'll laugh along as they banter about color-coordinated outfits and cookie cravings, but you'll also walk away with seven doable commitments that can keep you steady — and make January feel a whole lot easier.In this episode:Why waiting for January to “start over” doesn't workThe small, realistic habits that help you stay groundedHandling food, movement, and rest without guiltLetting go of perfection and choosing connection insteadHow to enjoy the holidays and feel good in your body and mindAvailable Now!
Featuring a slide presentation and related discussion from Dr Erika Hamilton, including the following topics: Mechanisms of endocrine resistance; incidence of ESR1 mutations in breast cancer (0:00) Testing methods for ESR1 mutations in patients with breast cancer; therapeutic options for patients with ESR1-mutant breast cancer (3:59) General overview of proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs); comparison of PROTAC estrogen receptor (ER) degraders and selective ER degraders (7:39) Early-phase data with vepdegestrant monotherapy or in combination with CDK4/6 inhibitors in ER-positive, HER2-negative metastatic breast cancer (mBC) (11:54) Phase III VERITAC-2 trial of vepdegestrant versus fulvestrant in ER-positive, HER2-negative mBC previously treated with endocrine therapy and a CDK4/6 inhibitor (17:48) Ongoing clinical trials evaluating vepdegestrant in novel combinations or treatment settings; other clinical applications of PROTACs (26:08) CME information and select publications
ADCs as first-line treatment? ESR1 monitoring before progression? Local therapy for CNS disease? Experts tackle today's toughest decisions. Credit available for this activity expires: 11/14/2026 Earn Credit / Learning Objectives & Disclosures: https://www.medscape.org/viewarticle/charting-course-metastatic-breast-cancer-care-optimizing-2025a1000v4s?ecd=bdc_podcast_libsyn_mscpedu
Featuring slide presentations and related discussion from Prof Francois-Clement Bidard, Dr Hope S Rugo, Dr Rebecca Shatsky and Dr Seth Wander, including the following topics: Optimal approach to biomarker testing for patients with ER-positive metastatic breast cancer (mBC) (0:00) Case: A woman in her early 70s with recurrent ER-positive, HER2-negative mBC receives elacestrant (15:15) Case: A woman in her early 60s with ER-positive, HER2-low, PIK3CA-mutated mBC receives inavolisib-based therapy and experiences no disease progression for 24 months (18:02) Role of oral selective estrogen receptor degrader (SERD) monotherapy in the treatment of progressive ER-positive, HER2-negative mBC (26:26) Case: A woman in her mid 60s with recurrent HR-positive, HER2-negative mBC receives elacestrant (44:12) Case: A woman in her early 50s with recurrent HR-positive, HER2-negative, PIK3CA-mutant mBC receives capivasertib and fulvestrant (45:33) Potential novel applications of oral SERDs in the management of ER-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer (51:25) Case: A woman in her mid 50s with recurrent ER-positive, HER2-negative, PIK3CA-mutated mBC experiences disease progression 18 months after starting first-line letrozole and ribociclib (1:03:46) Case: A woman in her mid 50s with ER-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer undergoes serial ctDNA monitoring during first-line therapy (1:06:54) Tolerability and other practical considerations with oral SERDs (1:14:30) Case: A woman in her early 60s with recurrent HR-positive, HER2-negative mBC receives elacestrant (1:33:26) Case: A woman in her early 60s with recurrent HR-positive, HER2-negative mBC receives elacestrant (1:37:38) CME information and select publications
Prof Francois-Clement Bidard from the Institut Curie in Paris, France, Dr Hope S Rugo from the City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center in Duarte, California, Dr Rebecca Shatsky from the University of California San Diego Moores Cancer Center and Dr Seth Wander from Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston discuss recent updates on available and emerging treatment strategies involving oral SERDs for ER-positive metastatic breast cancer. CME information and select publications here.
I'm Still Here: Lessons from Life with Metastatic Breast Cancer with Heather Jose
When your mind starts spinning with fear, what-ifs, and worst-case scenarios, how do you stop it? In this episode of I'm Still Here, Heather and Larry talk about the “cancer spiral” — that flood of anxious thoughts that shows up at diagnosis and sometimes never fully leaves.Heather shares how her new guide, Stop the Cancer Spiral: The 15-Minute Reset, was born out of her own experience of living with metastatic breast cancer for more than 25 years. Together, they break down what the spiral really is, why your brain defaults to it, and how you can interrupt it — in just a few minutes — using practical mindset tools that work in real life.Whether you're newly diagnosed, in treatment, or simply overwhelmed by everyday stress, this conversation will help you calm your mind, challenge your thoughts, and find your footing again.
Featuring an interview with Prof Patrick Neven, including the following topics: Emergence of ESR1 mutations in ER-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer (0:00) Observed toxicity profile of oral selective estrogen receptor degraders (SERDs) (3:57) Emerging data with novel oral SERD combinations (6:31) Challenges for a general medical oncologist in breast cancer (8:41) Sequencing and selection of therapies in ER-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer (12:16) Evaluating the strategy of switching to an oral SERD during first-line endocrine therapy upon "molecular progression" (23:16) CME information and select publications
Prof Patrick Neven from University Hospitals Leuven in Leuven, Belgium, discusses recent updates on available and novel treatment strategies with oral SERDs for ER-positive metastatic breast cancer. CME information and select publications here.
Featuring a slide presentation and related discussion from Prof Patrick Neven, including the following topics: Biology of the estrogen receptor (ER) and mechanisms of resistance to therapy (0:00) Clinical trial data involving oral selective ER degraders (SERDs) for endocrine-resistant ER-positive, HER2-negative metastatic breast cancer (13:34) Utility of switching to an oral SERD before radiographic disease progression for patients receiving first-line endocrine treatment (23:12) Ongoing trials with oral SERDs for ER-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer (27:13) Case: Patient with ER-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer receives imlunestrant upon disease progression on first-line letrozole (32:34) Case: Patient with ER-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer receives imlunestrant/abemaciclib upon relapse on letrozole/abemaciclib (34:16) Case: Patient with ER-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer receives camizestrant after first-line tamoxifen (36:20) Case: Patient with ER-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer receives elacestrant after disease progression on first-line letrozole/palbociclib (38:11) CME information and select publications
In metastatic breast cancer, resistance to therapy remains one of the most challenging aspects to care. A key driver of resistance in hormone receptor-positive, HER2-negative disease is the ESR1 mutation, a genetic change that alters the estrogen receptor and limits the effectiveness of certain standard therapies. In this episode, CANCER BUZZ speaks with Eleonara Teplinsky, MD, FASCO, head of breast and gynecologic medical oncology at Valley-Mount Sinai Comprehensive Cancer Care, about how the ESR1 mutation shapes treatment decisions and explains communication strategies, such as the "lock-and-key" model. Then CANCER BUZZ speaks with Maimah Karmo, president and CEO of Tigerlily Foundation about the importance of communicating with patients in ways that foster clarity and compassion through relatable analogies. Guest: Eleonora Teplinsky, MD, FASCO Medical Oncologist Valley Mount Sinai Comprehensive Cancer Care Paramus, NJ Maimah Karmo President/CEO Tigerlily Foundation "If you had molecular testing of your tumor done at the time of diagnosis, that may not be enough. If there is disease progression, we might need to repeat it. So it's really important to stress that there are points in the disease course where we're going to be checking for these biomarkers." - Teplinsky "The more that we can know about the tumor, how it's going to behave, what treatment it may or may not respond to, really can help us." - Teplinsky "Having a physician that is a true partner with the patient, that has a relationship, that's trusted, and that feels safe and secure, it's really, really critical." - Karmo Resources: Unlocking the Conversation: Navigating ESR1 Mutations in Metastatic Breast Cancer
Drs. Lynce and Waks explore whether advances in HER2-targeted therapy are making metastatic HER2+ breast cancer potentially curable, highlighting long-term remissions, survival gains from trials, and ongoing studies testing treatment-free remission.
I'm Still Here: Lessons from Life with Metastatic Breast Cancer with Heather Jose
Finding balance isn't about perfection — it's about learning what works for you. In this episode, Heather and Larry dig into the daily juggling act of work, health, and real life while managing metastatic breast cancer. They talk about scheduling versus spontaneity, energy management, and how both structure and grace play a role in living well long-term.Heather Jose was diagnosed with stage IV breast cancer at age 26 and has been thriving for more than 25 years. Through her podcast I'm Still Here: Lessons from Life with Metastatic Breast Cancer, she shares honest conversations, hope, and practical ways to live fully — no matter what life looks like.
Show notes and links: www.chrisbeatcancer.com/how-karla-mans-giroux-healed-metastatic-breast-cancer
Featuring perspectives from Dr Aditya Bardia and Dr Adam M Brufsky, including the following topics: Introduction: Antibody-drug conjugates in localized breast cancer (0:00) Case: A frail woman in her late 70s with ER-positive, HER2-low metastatic breast cancer (mBC) receives sacituzumab govitecan after multiple lines of therapy — Eric Fox, DO (7:46) Case: A woman in her early 60s with NTRK-mutant ER-negative, HER2-low recurrent mBC receives trastuzumab deruxtecan — Lai (Amber) Xu, MD, PhD (21:07) Case: A woman in her mid 70s with PIK3CA-mutant recurrent metastatic triple-negative breast cancer who developed a diverticular abscess on neoadjuvant chemoimmunotherapy receives sacituzumab govitecan and pembrolizumab — Alan B Astrow, MD (31:49) Case: A woman in her mid 60s with ER-negative, HER2-low mBC receives sacituzumab govitecan after experiencing disease progression on capecitabine — Laila Agrawal, MD (38:37) Case: A woman in her late 50s with ER-negative, HER2-low mBC receives trastuzumab deruxtecan after experiencing disease progression on sacituzumab govitecan — Kimberly Ku, MD (44:24) Case: A woman in her early 60s with ER-positive, HER2-low mBC and hyperglycemia receives trastuzumab deruxtecan after experiencing disease progression on capivasertib/fulvestrant — Eleonora Teplinsky, MD (48:50) CME information and select publications
Dr Aditya Bardia and Dr Adam M Brufsky discuss published and emerging datasets investigating the incorporation of antibody-drug conjugates into the treatment of metastatic breast cancer.CME information and select publications here.
Two Onc Docs, hosted by Samantha A. Armstrong, MD, and Karine Tawagi, MD, is a podcast dedicated to providing current and future oncologists and hematologists with the knowledge they need to ace their boards and deliver quality patient care. Dr Armstrong is a hematologist/oncologist and assistant professor of clinical medicine at Indiana University Health in Indianapolis. Dr Tawagi is a hematologist/oncologist and assistant professor of clinical medicine at the University of Illinois in Chicago. In this episode, OncLive On Air® partnered with Two Onc Docs to feature a comprehensive review of the current management of metastatic breast cancer, emphasizing evidence-based treatment strategies across molecular subtypes, toxicity management, and patient-centered care. Drs Armstrong and Tawagi discussed that the primary goals of metastatic breast cancer therapy include prolonging survival, controlling symptoms, minimizing toxicity, improving quality of life, and incorporating patients' goals and preferences into care decisions. Their discussion also highlighted the importance of recognizing when transitioning to best supportive care is most appropriate. For estrogen receptor–positive metastatic breast cancer, they noted that first-line therapy includes an aromatase inhibitor or fulvestrant (Faslodex) combined with a CDK4/6 inhibitor, with ovarian function suppression for premenopausal patients. PARP inhibitors are recommended for patients with BRCA1/2-positive disease. In visceral crisis, chemotherapy remains the category 1 recommendation. Second-line treatment options include therapies guided by repeat molecular testing. fam-trastuzumab deruxtecan-nxki (T-DXd; Enhertu) is approved for patients with HER2-low disease. For HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer, first-line treatment consists of a taxane plus pertuzumab (Perjeta) and trastuzumab (Herceptin), followed by T-DXd in the second-line setting. For triple-negative metastatic breast cancer, therapy depends on PD-L1 status. The episode concluded by underscoring the role of bone-protective agents such as zoledronic acid, pamidronate, or denosumab (with dental clearance to prevent osteonecrosis). Key takeaways emphasize tailoring therapy to molecular subtype, recognizing drug-specific toxicities, and prioritizing patient-centered decision-making in the management of metastatic breast cancer.
This week's episode is part 3 of our breast cancer series, with a 2025 update focusing on metastatic breast cancer systemic therapies, toxicities, and supportive care considerations.
In this episode of, "Empowered Intimacy: Getting Your Sexy Back After Breast Cancer," we open up an important conversation about sexual health after a breast cancer diagnosis. Melissa is joined by her friend Deltra, a mom of five living with triple-negative metastatic breast cancer, and Dr. Laila Agrawal, a board-certified medical oncologist dedicated to putting sexual health at the forefront of cancer care. Many carry these concerns silently, but intimacy is an important part of quality-of-life care. Together, they share personal stories, explore why this topic is often overlooked, and offer practical tips for starting the conversation with your doctor, asking the right questions, and advocating for the support and resources that you deserve. Special thanks to Lilly, Merck, and Novartis for supporting the Cancer Fashionista Foundation and making this episode possible.
I'm Still Here: Lessons from Life with Metastatic Breast Cancer with Heather Jose
Let's Talk About Sex – After CancerAfter cancer, everyone tells you “you look great”—but looking fine isn't the same as feeling whole. In this candid, funny, and deeply honest conversation, Heather and Larry talk about what intimacy really looks like after diagnosis and treatment: grief over a changing body (and lost fertility), reconstruction that “looks” like breasts but doesn't feel like them, early menopause, fear, shame, and how they slowly rebuilt connection.They share the practical stuff that helped—clear boundaries, encouragement and praise from a partner, scheduling intimacy, using vibrators to reduce dryness and re-awaken sensation, and giving each other permission to learn by trial and error. If you've ever wondered how to move from surviving to fully living—including in the bedroom—this one's for you.We cover:Appearance vs. reality: looking “okay” while feeling disconnectedReconstruction + sensation loss, and naming what doesn't workGrieving fertility and redefining womanhoodPartner role: encouragement, praise, patience, teamworkPractical tools: communication, timing, scheduling, lube, vibratorsKeeping humor alive when things get awkwardContent note: frank discussion of sex, bodies, vibrators, and intimacy after cancer.✨ Connect with Heather:Website: heatherjose.comInstagram: @heatherjoseFacebook: Heather Jose – I'm Still HereYouTube: I'm Still Here PodcastPodcast: I'm Still Here: Lessons from Life with Metastatic Breast Cancer
Featuring an interview with Dr Laura Huppert, including the following topics: General overview of antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) structure and function; mechanisms of resistance to ADCs (0:00) Preventing and managing toxicities associated with trastuzumab deruxtecan (5:44) Selecting between sacituzumab govitecan and datopotamab deruxtecan for patients with metastatic breast cancer; common toxicities associated with these 2 agents (9:30) Potential use of ADCs in the first line for metastatic triple-negative breast cancer (mTNBC) (16:13) Case: A woman in her mid 40s with mTNBC receives sacituzumab govitecan and pembrolizumab in the first-line setting (18:25) CNS penetration and activity of ADCs in the treatment of breast cancer (22:27) Use of trastuzumab deruxtecan for HER2-ultralow mTNBC; promising trials of ADCs and other therapies for mTNBC (24:24) Treatment options in the second line and beyond for patients with HR-positive mBC that is HER2-negative, HER2 low or HER2 ultralow (27:05) Case: A woman in her late 50s with HR-positive, HER2-low mBC experiences disease progression on multiple lines of therapy (30:51) Ongoing evaluation of ADCs in the localized disease setting (35:42) Novel therapeutic approaches for leptomeningeal disease in patients with breast cancer (38:38) CME information and select publications
Dr Laura Huppert from the University of California, San Francisco, discusses approved and investigational antibody-drug conjugates in the current and future management of HR-positive and triple-negative metastatic breast cancer. CME information and select publications here.
During National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, breast cancer gets more attention and that is a great thing for fundraising, awareness and early detection. However, for those living with Metastatic Breast Cancer, this month can be hard – and sometimes feel triggering and isolating. The widespread focus is often on screenings and celebrating survivors living a life free from cancer, which is not the reality for those with metastatic disease. Today, on MBC Awareness Day, we are excited to welcome Ashley Fernendez back to the show to talk about her lived experiences, how she seeks support and what she wants people to know about living with Metastatic Breast Cancer.
In this raw, funny, and beautifully honest episode, Wren, the founder of the Living Our Breast Lives Podcast, is joined by the vibrant Annie Bond—a woman who's not just living with Metastatic Breast Cancer, but marking an incredible 10 years of thriving with it. Annie invites us beyond the diagnosis and into her world: her advocacy, her comedy, her social media voice, and her unapologetic authenticity.We dive into the realities of MBC—from the milestone of a decade with the disease to the heartbreak of a recent breakup and painful losses we experience so often in this community. Annie shares how she uses dark humor and creativity to cope, how advocacy keeps her grounded, and why building authentic connections—online and in person—has been one of the greatest gifts of this journey.She also opens up about the balance between laughter and grief, joy and sorrow, and why honesty matters more than toxic positivity ever could. Through it all, Annie reminds us that even in the hardest spaces, community and truth-telling can carry us forward.Whether you're living with MBC, love someone who is, or just want to hear a bold and unfiltered story of resilience, humor, and heart—this episode is for you. It's real, it's raw, and it's proof that even in the face of stage four, life can still be loud, messy, meaningful—and full of laughter.Living Our Breast Lives Information:Email: livingourbreastlivespodcast1@gmail.comInstagram: @livingourbreastlivesFounder: Wren MorrobelPersonal Instagram: @wren_morrAnnie Bond's Information:@theanniebond on FB, IG, and TikTok
Featuring a slide presentation and related discussion from Dr Laura Huppert, including the following topics: Overview of approved antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) for metastatic hormone receptor-positive HER2-negative breast cancer — trastuzumab deruxtecan, sacituzumab govitecan and datopotamab deruxtecan(0:00) Approved and investigational ADCs for metastatic triple-negative breast cancer (17:18) Sequencing of ADCs for metastatic HER2-negative breast cancer; future research directions (26:10) CME information and select publications
This episode is all about the purisuit to understand and treat metastatic breast cancer. Dr. Martine Piccart and Dr. Lisa Carey delve into the complexities of metastatic breast cancer (MBC), highlighting why it remains one of the most challenging forms of the disease to treat.
October is a complicated month for so many of us touched by breast cancer. Pink ribbons are everywhere—sometimes they feel celebratory, other times they stir up fear, grief, or difficult memories. Both experiences are real, and both deserve to be honored. In this episode, I invite you to see October through a different lens. Instead of focusing only on awareness, what if we made it about aliveness? I talk about how prevention deserves as much energy as detection, why metastatic breast cancer looks very different today than it did 10–15 years ago, and how daily acts of self-love—like steadying blood sugar, protecting sleep, or moving your body—can transform both health and quality of life. This conversation is about shifting from fear to empowerment, from bracing for bad news to showing up fully for the life that's happening right now. Think of it like a rhinestone ribbon—multi-faceted, sparkly, unapologetically alive.
I'm Still Here: Lessons from Life with Metastatic Breast Cancer with Heather Jose
Living with metastatic breast cancer is exhausting—physically, mentally, emotionally, and socially. It never takes a day off, and sometimes you just wish you could too. In this episode of I'm Still Here: Lessons from Life with Metastatic Breast Cancer, Heather explores the very real longing to take a “vacation” from MBC.You'll hear why the constant weight of appointments, scanxiety, side effects, and even other people's expectations can feel overwhelming—and why it's perfectly normal to want a break. More importantly, you'll discover small but powerful ways to give yourself permission to rest, escape, and find peace, even if cancer never fully leaves the room.