By SurvivingBreastCancer.org
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The podcast currently has 250 episodes available.
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Breast cancer is a deeply personal journey. As the landscape of breast cancer treatment evolves, understanding the surgical options available becomes crucial for patients navigating this challenging experience. In this episode, we speak with Dr. Yolanda Tamero, a breast surgical oncologist, who provides invaluable insights into the various surgical interventions available for those diagnosed with breast cancer. We talk about the different types of breast surgeries, the roles of various medical professionals involved, and the considerations that we should keep in mind when making decisions about our surgical treatment options.
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In this episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, I had the pleasure of speaking with Stephanie S. Abbott, a remarkable individual who has navigated the complex worlds of both healthcare administration and cancer survivorship. Stephanie brings a unique perspective, having served in multiple leadership roles in healthcare, including Chief Experience Officer for Adventist Health and Division Vice President of Patient Experience for HCA.
Stephanie shared her personal journey, from her diagnosis on November 12, 2021, to her experiences as a patient undergoing treatment. She highlighted the emotional and operational challenges she faced, offering invaluable insights into the friction points within the healthcare system. Stephanie's story underscores the importance of human connection and effective communication between patients and healthcare providers.
Stephanie is also the author of the book Buried or Planted: 100+ Expert Insights from a Healthcare Executive's Journey as a Cancer Patient on Amazon below: https://www.amazon.com/Buried-Planted-Insights-Healthcare-Executives/dp/B0D4Q9QM78
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Attend a free virtual SurvivingBreastCancer.org event:
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About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.
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In this episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, I had the pleasure of speaking with the incredible Dr. Amani Jambhekar, a board-certified general surgeon and medical director for surgical breast oncology at Christus St. Vincent in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Dr. Jambhekar shared her journey from Texas to New Mexico, driven by her commitment to women's health and her response to the Texas law SB8, which bans most abortions after six weeks of pregnancy.
We delved into the significant impact of SB8 on women's healthcare, discussing how it has led to increased maternal mortality, healthcare professional shortages, and a more challenging environment for women seeking medical care. Dr. Jambhekar highlighted the broader implications of such legislation, emphasizing the need for evidence-based medicine and the importance of advocating for women's rights.
Our conversation also touched on the pervasive issues of gender bias and microaggressions in the medical field. Dr. Jambhekar shared personal experiences of being underestimated and disrespected as a female surgeon, and we discussed the importance of mentorship and support among women in healthcare.
We explored the critical need for better access to healthcare, particularly for breast cancer patients, and the disparities that exist in diagnosis and treatment. Dr. Jambhekar's insights into the challenges faced by women in healthcare and her dedication to empowering women both as patients and professionals were truly inspiring.
As we navigate these complex issues, it's clear that advocacy, education, and support are essential. I encourage our listeners to engage in these conversations and support women's rights.
SURVIVINGBREASTCANCER.ORG
Attend a free virtual SurvivingBreastCancer.org event:
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events
Follow us on Instagram
SurvivingBreastCancer.org: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/
Breast Cancer Conversations: https://www.instagram.com/breastcancerconversations/
About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.
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Love the episode? Send us a text!
In this episode, I had the honor of speaking with Heather Salazar, an incredible woman whose journey through breast cancer led her to create the impactful nonprofit, Pink Ribbon Good. Heather's story is one of resilience, compassion, and dedication to helping others.
Heather shared her powerful narrative, starting with her connection to Alexis, a young mother with metastatic breast cancer. Heather and her husband adopted Alexis's baby, Lexi, and cared for Alexis during her final months. Tragically, 18 months later, Heather herself was diagnosed with breast cancer. Despite the challenges, Heather emerged as a survivor and channeled her experience into founding Pink Ribbon Good.
Pink Ribbon Good began with a mission to provide meals, house cleaning, rides to treatment, and peer support to breast cancer patients and their families. Heather's dedication and innovative approach have allowed the organization to grow exponentially, now serving nationwide and delivering over 1 million meals.
Heather also discussed the importance of survivorship and the unique challenges it presents. She emphasized the value of living in the moment and being present for loved ones, lessons she learned from her own journey and from those living with metastatic breast cancer.
We also touched on the operational challenges and triumphs of running a nonprofit, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Heather's story is a testament to the power of community, resilience, and the impact one person can make.
To learn more about Heather's work and Pink Ribbon Good, visit pinkribbongood.org and follow them on social media.
Thank you for tuning in to this heartfelt and inspiring episode. If you enjoyed it, please share it with your friends and family, and consider sending us some fan mail or tagging us on social media at survivingbreastcancer.org. Your support helps us continue to provide valuable resources and support to those affected by breast cancer.
You can read Heather's story here: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/post/my-answer-to-cancer
SURVIVINGBREASTCANCER.ORG
Attend a free virtual SurvivingBreastCancer.org event:
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events
Follow us on Instagram
SurvivingBreastCancer.org: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/
Breast Cancer Conversations: https://www.instagram.com/breastcancerconversations/
About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.
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Love the episode? Send us a text!
In this episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, we delve into the complexities of living with a metastatic breast cancer diagnosis and explore the various diagnostic and treatment options available. Our panel includes Dr. Groteluschen, a medical oncologist from Green Bay Oncology, Tammy, a patient living with metastatic breast cancer, and Dr. Covington, a breast radiologist and nuclear radiologist from the University of Utah.
Dr. Groteluschen shares his approach to delivering heavy news to patients, emphasizing the importance of honesty, transparency, and hope. He discusses the nuances of different imaging techniques, such as CT scans and PET scans, and how they are used to monitor disease progression and inform treatment decisions. Tammy provides a personal perspective on her journey, highlighting the importance of advocating for oneself and seeking second opinions.
Dr. Covington offers insights into the role of radiology in breast cancer care, explaining the differences between FDG PET and FES PET scans. He discusses how these imaging techniques help in identifying the extent and characteristics of the disease, which in turn guides treatment planning.
We also touch upon the evolving landscape of breast cancer treatment, including the potential for nuclear medicine-based therapies and the importance of targeted therapy. The episode concludes with reflections from each panelist on what excites them most about the future of breast cancer oncology, from advancements in imaging and targeted therapies to the ongoing development of clinical trials.
This episode is a deep dive into the intricacies of metastatic breast cancer, offering valuable insights for patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals alike.
SURVIVINGBREASTCANCER.ORG
Attend a free virtual SurvivingBreastCancer.org event:
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events
Follow us on Instagram
SurvivingBreastCancer.org: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/
Breast Cancer Conversations: https://www.instagram.com/breastcancerconversations/
About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.
Support the show
Love the episode? Send us a text!
In the realm of breast cancer treatment, nurse navigators play a pivotal role in guiding patients through the complexities of their diagnosis and treatment. This episode of "Breast Cancer Conversations" features insights from Colleen Beguin, Amanda Kuller from Honor Health and Lourdes Heras, a patient advocate at SurvivingBreastCancer.org, who share their experiences and perspectives on the importance of nurse navigation.
SURVIVINGBREASTCANCER.ORG
Attend a free virtual SurvivingBreastCancer.org event:
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events
Follow us on Instagram
SurvivingBreastCancer.org: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/
Breast Cancer Conversations: https://www.instagram.com/breastcancerconversations/
About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.
Support the show
Love the episode? Send us a text!
Katrece's journey began in her late 30s, a time when many women may not consider themselves at risk for breast cancer. With no known family history of the disease, she was caught off guard when she noticed a physical change in her body—one breast appeared larger than the other. This seemingly benign observation led her to seek medical attention, a decision that would prove to be pivotal in her healthcare journey. The initial visit to her family doctor, although met with some skepticism regarding the urgency of her symptoms, highlighted the importance of being proactive. Despite not feeling a lump during a self-exam, Katrece’s instincts pushed her to pursue further evaluation, demonstrating that awareness and self-advocacy are crucial components of health management.
You can listen to Katrece's full story with IBC in episode 242. Today we go beyond diagnosis and treatment to survivorship! Katrece shares her story 11+ years from that initial call informing her she had breast cancer. Today she is living with no evidence of disease!
SURVIVINGBREASTCANCER.ORG
Attend a free virtual SurvivingBreastCancer.org event:
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events
Follow us on Instagram
SurvivingBreastCancer.org: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/
Breast Cancer Conversations: https://www.instagram.com/breastcancerconversations/
About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.
Support the show
Love the episode? Send us a text!
I had the privilege of speaking with Katrece Nolen, a breast cancer survivor from Northern Virginia. We had such a lovely and long conversation that I ended up producing this episode in two parts. Today we dive into Katrece’s compelling story with inflammatory breast cancer (IBC).
Diagnosed in her late 30s, Katrece's story began with a simple observation of asymmetry in her breasts, which led her to seek medical attention. Despite initial challenges in getting timely appointments, her persistence paid off when she was diagnosed with IBC, a rare and aggressive form of breast cancer.
Katrece detailed the rigorous treatment process, which included chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation, emphasizing the importance of having knowledgeable doctors and advocating for oneself. She also highlighted the emotional and logistical challenges of managing a cancer diagnosis while raising three young children, and the critical role of community and family support.
Katrece's story is a powerful reminder of the importance of self-advocacy, the need for specialized knowledge in treating rare cancers. In part II (EPS 423), we celebrate Katrece’s survivorship of 11+ years and what survivorship and surveillance look like for those diagnosed with breast cancer.
SURVIVINGBREASTCANCER.ORG
Attend a free virtual SurvivingBreastCancer.org event:
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events
Follow us on Instagram
SurvivingBreastCancer.org: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/
Breast Cancer Conversations: https://www.instagram.com/breastcancerconversations/
About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.
Support the show
Love the episode? Send us a text!
In today's episode, we delve into the world of PET scans and other imaging modalities crucial for accurate diagnosis and staging of breast cancer. We are joined by two incredible guests: Dr. Kiser, the Medical Director of Molecular Imaging for Carilion Clinic, and Pam Kohl, a patient advocate living with metastatic breast cancer.
Dr. Kiser provides an in-depth explanation of PET scans, particularly focusing on FDG and FES (also known as Cerianna) PET scans. FDG-PET scans use radioactive glucose to highlight cancerous tissues, while FES-PET scans target estrogen receptors, making them highly specific for ER-positive breast cancer. Dr. Kiser emphasizes the revolutionary impact of these imaging techniques in both diagnostics and therapeutics.
Pam shares her personal experience with breast cancer, highlighting the importance of advocating for oneself. Diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer in 2009, Pam experienced a recurrence in 2017, which led to a stage 4 metastatic diagnosis. Her story underscores the critical role of PET scans in detecting metastasis early and informing effective treatment plans. Pam's experience with FES-PET scans has been particularly transformative, allowing her medical team to tailor her treatment precisely to her cancer's characteristics.
SURVIVINGBREASTCANCER.ORG
Attend a free virtual SurvivingBreastCancer.org event:
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events
Follow us on Instagram
SurvivingBreastCancer.org: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/
Breast Cancer Conversations: https://www.instagram.com/breastcancerconversations/
About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.
Support the show
Love the episode? Send us a text!
In this episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, we delve into the critical topic of nuclear medicine and its role in breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. As a breast cancer survivor and advocate, I understand the anxiety that comes with scans involving radioactive tracers. Today, we aim to demystify this process and highlight its importance.
I am joined by Dr. Kiser and Pam Kohl, who provide insights from both medical and patient advocate perspectives. We discuss the safety and precautions associated with nuclear medicine tests, particularly focusing on the issue of extravasation—when the radioactive material leaks into surrounding tissues instead of staying in the vein.
Throughout the episode, we stress the importance of patient advocacy and being informed about the procedures and technologies available. We hope this conversation empowers our listeners to ask the right questions and seek the best possible care.
SURVIVINGBREASTCANCER.ORG
Attend a free virtual SurvivingBreastCancer.org event:
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events
Follow us on Instagram
SurvivingBreastCancer.org: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/
Breast Cancer Conversations: https://www.instagram.com/breastcancerconversations/
About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.
Support the show
The podcast currently has 250 episodes available.
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