In this powerful episode of Bladder Cancer Matters, host Rick Bangs talks with Deb Wells, a survivor of high-grade upper tract urothelial cancer (UTUC), who shares her emotional and eye-opening journey to diagnosis and treatment. After months of misdiagnoses and repeated ER visits, Deb finally learned the truth behind her symptoms—an experience that will resonate with many bladder cancer patients, especially women. She opens up about the importance of being an informed patient, finding the right medical team, and leaning on a support system when facing uncertainty.

Deb's story is both inspiring and practical, filled with advice for navigating complex medical decisions, coping with treatment side effects, and embracing life during and after cancer. If you or someone you love has been impacted by bladder or upper tract urothelial cancer, this episode offers hope, clarity, and a powerful reminder that no one has to face this journey alone. Don't miss this honest and uplifting conversation.

Can you really just take out part of the bladder? It's one of the most common questions bladder cancer surgeons hear—and in this episode of Bladder Cancer Matters, host Rick Bangs sits down with renowned urologic oncologist Dr. John Gore to break it all down. From TURBTs to partial cystectomies, they explore when bladder-sparing approaches are appropriate, what the real risks and benefits are, and how treatment choices affect long-term outcomes. Whether you're a patient, caregiver, or advocate, this episode is packed with the kind of honest, expert insight that can help you make more informed decisions.

Can personalized exercise improve recovery after bladder cancer surgery? In our latest Bladder Cancer Matters podcast, host Rick Bangs talks with Dr. Sarah Psutka about her groundbreaking BCAN-funded clinical trial, Get Moving. This innovative study explores how tailored, app-based exercise programs can help patients undergoing major surgery for bladder or upper tract urothelial cancer recover faster and feel better. From reducing frailty to rebuilding strength at home using just a smartphone and a Fitbit, this episode dives deep into the science—and heart—behind helping patients thrive.

🎙 Meet Meri-Margaret Deoudes, BCAN's new CEO! In this interesting episode of Bladder Cancer Matters, Meri-Margaret shares what drew her to BCAN, her surprising personal connection to bladder cancer, and the incredible warmth and strength she's already found in the community. With over 25 years of nonprofit leadership, she's stepping into this role with passion, purpose, and a deep commitment to patients as her guiding light.

💙 Tune in as she and host Rick Bangs talk about BCAN's exciting 20th anniversary, plans for future growth, and how the organization is expanding support for caregivers, women, veterans, and young-onset patients. Whether you're a survivor, caregiver, advocate, or simply part of the BCAN family, you won't want to miss this inspiring conversation. Listen now!

Bladder cancer survivor Fran Curtis shares her powerful journey on Bladder Cancer Matters, discussing her experience with ADSTILADRIN® (nadofaragene firadenovec-vncg), the impact of early detection, and her advocacy work with BCAN. Diagnosed with non-muscle invasive bladder cancer after subtle urinary changes, Fran highlights the importance of listening to your body, seeking the best care, and finding hope through community support. Released during International Women's History Month, this episode underscores the need for gender equity in healthcare. Tune in to hear Fran's inspiring story and insights!

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

Who should not receive ADSTILADRIN? Do not receive ADSTILADRIN if you have a sensitivity to interferon alfa or any of its components.

What is the most important information I should know about ADSTILADRIN? Individuals who are immunosuppressed or immune-deficient should not prepare, administer, receive, or come into contact with ADSTILADRIN.

What should I tell my healthcare provider? Tell your doctor about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

What are the possible side effects of ADSTILADRIN? The most common side effects of ADSTILADRIN include: Urinary discharge, fatigue, bladder spasm, urgency to urinate, and blood in your urine.

These are not all the possible side effects of ADSTILADRIN. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to FDA. Visit www.FDA.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-332-1088. You may also contact Ferring Pharmaceuticals at 1-888-FERRING.

What other information should I know about using ADSTILADRIN? For 2 days following treatment, voided urine should be disinfected for 15 minutes with an equal volume of bleach before flushing.

For more important information, call 1-888-337-7464.

Please see full Prescribing Information.

Mental health is a critical yet often overlooked aspect of the cancer journey. In this compelling episode of Bladder Cancer Matters, host Rick Bangs sits down with nurse practitioner and long-time BCAN advocate Mary Dunn to tackle the emotional challenges faced by bladder cancer patients and their caregivers. From fear of recurrence and depression to the stigma surrounding urologic cancers, Mary shares eye-opening statistics, real-world experiences, and practical strategies for addressing these issues. She also discusses how BCAN's Survivorship Task Force is working to close the gaps in psychological support. Whether you're a patient, caregiver, or healthcare professional, this episode sheds light on the urgent need to normalize mental health discussions and create accessible resources for those navigating the complexities of bladder cancer. Don't miss this powerful conversation—listen now!

In this special Bladder Cancer Matters podcast, host Rick Bangs features BCAN's February 2025 Partner in Progress, Photocure. Anders Neijber, Photocure's Chief Medical Officer, dives into the company's pioneering work in bladder cancer diagnosis and surveillance, including the groundbreaking use of Blue Light Cystoscopy. From how it enhances detection to its role in shaping future treatments, Anders shares expert insights on Photocure's patient-focused innovations and its impactful partnership with BCAN. Don't miss this inspiring conversation about how collaboration is driving progress and hope for the bladder cancer community. Listen now!

In this episode of Bladder Cancer Matters, host Rick Bangs is joined by the esteemed Dr. Ashish Kamat of MD Anderson Cancer Center to dive into the often-overlooked world of histologic subtypes, or variants, of bladder cancer. These rare subtypes can significantly alter how bladder cancer behaves and responds to treatment.

Dr. Kamat breaks down the science behind these variants in a way that's both accessible and empowering for patients, offering crucial insights into why understanding your specific diagnosis matters. From the differences between common urothelial cancer and variants to the critical questions patients should ask their doctors, this conversation is packed with valuable information for anyone navigating a bladder cancer journey.

Join Bladder Cancer Matters host Rick Bangs as he sits down with BCAN CEO Andrea Maddox-Smith, who reflects on her remarkable tenure leading the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network. From dramatically increasing research funding to building a powerhouse team and expanding programs, Andrea has transformed BCAN into a vital lifeline for bladder cancer patients and families. Hear her personal journey, her proudest moments, and the legacy she's leaving behind as she prepares for retirement in 2025.

Andrea's passion for patient advocacy, her deep connections with the bladder cancer community, and her dedication to driving change shine through in every word. Whether you're a patient, caregiver, or advocate, this episode will leave you inspired by what's possible when a vision is fueled by heart and determination. Listen now on Bladder Cancer Matters!

Discover how groundbreaking advancements in bladder cancer care are transforming lives in our latest Bladder Cancer Matters podcast episode!

Host Rick Bangs kicks off BCAN's 20th anniversary "Partners in Progress" series with Karishma Parikh of Ferring Pharmaceuticals.

Learn about Adstiladrin, an innovative gene therapy offering hope and bladder preservation for some patients with high-risk, BCG-unresponsive bladder cancer. With a 96% success rate in preventing progression to muscle-invasive cancer and life-changing patient stories, this episode is packed with insights into how Ferring is driving innovation, supporting patient needs, and reshaping the future of bladder cancer care. Tune in now and be inspired!

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INDICATION

ADSTILADRIN is a treatment for adults who have all the following:

• High-risk non–muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC)
• Cancer that is not responding to Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) therapy
• Carcinoma in situ (CIS) with or without other high-grade tumors

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

Who should not receive ADSTILADRIN? Do not receive ADSTILADRIN if you have a sensitivity to interferon alfa or any of its components.

What is the most important information I should know about ADSTILADRIN? Individuals who are immunosuppressed or immune-deficient should not prepare, administer, receive or come into contact with ADSTILADRIN.

What should I tell my healthcare provider? Tell your doctor about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

What are the possible side effects of ADSTILADRIN? The most common side effects of ADSTILADRIN include: Urinary discharge, fatigue, bladder spasm, urgency to urinate, and blood in your urine.

These are not all the possible side effects of ADSTILADRIN. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.FDA.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-332-1088. You may also contact Ferring Pharmaceuticals at 1-888-FERRING.

What other information should I know about using ADSTILADRIN? For two days following treatment, voided urine should be disinfected for 15 minutes with an equal volume of bleach before flushing.

For more important information, call 1-888-337-7464.

Please see full Prescribing Information.