Cervivor Podcast

We delve into the world of support, resilience, and hope with two remarkable guests who are making a profound impact in the lives of cancer fighters, survivors, previvors, and caregivers.

Join us as we sit down with Jackie Herigodt, the Director of Partnerships and Engagement at Imerman Angels, and with Lorie Wallace, a cervical cancer survivor turned mentor within the organization. Tune in to this episode to learn more about the essential role of empathy, companionship, and community in the cancer journey. Discover how Imerman Angels are lighting up the path to healing and showing that no one must face cancer alone. Prepare to be moved, inspired, and enlightened by the incredible work being done to provide comfort and understanding to cancer fighters, survivors, previvors, and caregivers.

If you or someone you know has been affected by cancer, this episode is a must-listen, offering hope and a reminder that there is strength in connection.

Did you connect with this episode? Share your thoughts with us on social media using #CervivorPodcast or by ⁠⁠emailing us.⁠⁠  

For more Cervivor-related content, check out: ⁠⁠Cervivor.org⁠⁠. Follow Cervivor on all social media platforms. If you would like to be interviewed as a potential guest for an upcoming episode or would like to request a speaker or topic for a future podcast episode, email us at [email protected].

In this deeply moving episode, we delve into the extraordinary bond between a daughter and her mother, exploring their courageous journey through the challenges of cervical cancer. Meet Rachel Rump, a resilient young woman who faced a daunting diagnosis with unwavering determination, and her mother, Barb Montague, who became her steadfast caregiver. This heartwarming and inspirational conversation unveils the remarkable story of their unbreakable connection, highlighting the sacrifices, love, and resilience that define the mother-daughter relationship during their experience with cervical cancer. Through their shared experiences, they remind us of the incredible strength that a mother's love can provide during life's most trying moments. Prepare to be moved as we celebrate the enduring power of maternal love in the face of adversity and the incredible impact it has on the journey to healing and hope.

Did you connect with this episode? Share your thoughts with us on social media using #CervivorPodcast or by ⁠emailing us.⁠  

For more Cervivor-related content, check out: ⁠Cervivor.org⁠. Follow Cervivor on all social media platforms. If you would like to be interviewed as a potential guest for an upcoming episode or would like to request a speaker or topic for a future podcast episode, email us at [email protected].

It's time to get the 411 on 420 and learn about how Cannabis is helping cancer patients from alleviating pain to curbing anxiety. Avi Grant-Noonan and Samantha Russell both #CervicalCancer #Cervivors share their experiences with using cannabis and how it has changed their lives for the better. Dr. Brooke Worster a clinician-researcher, practicing Supportive Medicine and cancer pain management for cancer patients at the Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, breaks down the stigma of using cannabis for cancer patients, including the history and the various cannabis products.  Remember, your health is your priority, and seeking information is a crucial step in your journey. 

Did you connect with this episode? Share your thoughts with us on social media using #CervivorPodcast or by emailing us.  

For more Cervivor-related content, check out: Cervivor.org. Follow Cervivor on all social media platforms. If you would like to be interviewed as a potential guest for an upcoming episode or would like to request a speaker or topic for a future podcast episode, email us at [email protected].

In this episode, we explore the remarkable journey of "Teens for Vaccines," and learn how young leaders like Arin Parsa and dedicated volunteers like Lindsey Smith are spearheading a movement that is not only transforming the vaccination landscape but also empowering the next generation to be champions of public health.

Tune in to this enlightening episode and discover how the passion and determination of youth can drive positive change in our world. Don't miss this opportunity to be inspired and informed about the crucial importance of vaccines in our society.

Did you connect with this episode? Share your thoughts with us on social media using #CervivorPodcast or by emailing us.  

For more Cervivor-related content, check out: Cervivor.org. Follow Cervivor on all social media platforms. If you would like to be interviewed as a potential guest for an upcoming episode or would like to request a speaker or topic for a future podcast episode, email us at [email protected].

Check out this bonus content: Below the Belt Conversations featuring Cervivor Podcast Host, Joslyn Paguio and 10-year cervical cancer survivor, Yvette Torres.

The Below the Belt Conversations series was created to encourage you to have these conversations with your family and friends about your cervical cancer journey and also discuss the ways of screening and prevention.

The more we normalize these conversations, the more we will make cervical cancer a household name which could increase cervical cancer screenings in your area.

For more information, visit Cervivor.org.

Pelvic floor physical therapy is well-rounded care! In this episode, our guest expert, Dr. Cyan Agena, pelvic floor therapist and women's health advocate, will guide us through the importance of understanding and caring for this often overlooked but crucial part of the body. She addresses pelvic floor dysfunction including pain with sex, urinary leakage, pelvic organ prolapse, post-surgical recovery, and postpartum recovery. Dr. Agena's goal is to empower women with the confidence to return to a lifestyle of wellness without limits.

Whether you're someone who has experienced pelvic floor challenges or simply curious about this essential aspect of human health, this episode will provide valuable insights, expert advice, and practical tips for incorporating pelvic floor therapy into your self-care routine. Be sure to connect with Dr. Agena on Instagram @malamaPT for more content on pelvic floor physical therapy.

Did you connect with this episode? Share your thoughts with us on social media using #CervivorPodcast or by emailing us.  

For more Cervivor-related content, check out: Cervivor.org. Follow Cervivor on all social media platforms. If you would like to be interviewed as a potential guest for an upcoming episode or would like to request a speaker or topic for a future podcast episode, email us at [email protected].

In this episode, we dive into the intersection between cancer and trauma. Join us as host, Joslyn Paguio guides this important conversation with her special guests, mental health expert, Dr. Lillian Walker Shelton, and cervical cancer survivor, Kristin Tanner. Hear their personal experiences and the emotional impact cancer had on each of their lives. Tune in to this insightful episode as we embark on a journey of understanding, compassion, and inspiration for all those impacted by cancer.

Did you connect with this episode? Share your thoughts with us on social media using #CervivorPodcast or by emailing us.  

For more Cervivor-related content, check out: Cervivor.org. Follow Cervivor on all social media platforms. If you would like to be interviewed as a potential guest for an upcoming episode or would like to request a speaker or topic for a future podcast episode, email us at [email protected].

In this episode, you'll hear first of an inspiring journey of resilience and innovation as we sit down with cervical cancer survivor, Eve McDavid. She faced the unimaginable—a cervical cancer diagnosis while 35 weeks pregnant. Hear her journey from patient to CEO and Co-Founder of Mission Driven Tech. Then, Dr. Onyinye Balogun shares how this therapy technique has impacted the treatment of gynecologic cancers and why it is so important as Co-Founder and Chief Medical Officer of Mission Driven Tech to improve it further. You don't want to miss this!

From the science behind it to the inspiring stories of survivors, our podcast is your gateway to understanding the life-changing impact of Brachytherapy.

Did you connect with this episode? Share your thoughts with us on social media using #CervivorPodcast or by emailing us.  

For more Cervivor-related content, check out: Cervivor.org. Follow Cervivor on all social media platforms. If you would like to be interviewed as a potential guest for an upcoming episode or would like to request a speaker or topic for a future podcast episode, email us at [email protected].

May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month! In this episode, Cervivor Podcast Host, Joslyn Paguio discusses health disparities within the Asian, Asian American, and Pacific Islander communities and the possible reasons why with Dr. Mihae Song, a Gynecologic Oncologist at City of Hope, and Arlene Simpson, a cervical cancer survivor. Through this conversation, you'll hear the personal stories of each guest and where they are at today. Communication is key to understanding one’s health and building a long-lasting relationship with their primary care physician. So, what happens when you aren’t taught the proper terminology? What if you were never taught how to talk about things…particularly below the belt? We realize that knowledge is power. Some experience no abnormal symptoms and are diagnosed with cervical cancer. Then there are some, like Arlene, a Cervivor community member, who realized that "abnormal was her normal." Arlene accepted that as a way of life because of associated diagnoses which later led to her cervical cancer.

More about the guests:

Arlene Simpson is a loving mom, a devoted wife, a Financial Services professional focusing on the importance of Financial Literacy in America, and a one-year cervical cancer survivor and patient advocate.

MIHAE SONG, M.D., has provided free health care for pregnant women in Pakistan, cared for blind and autistic children in South Korea, mentored grade school kids and trained future medical school students in surgical techniques. She’s earned a long list of awards and honors for her skills in the operating room and the classroom. Dr. Song is passionate about women’s health and an expert in minimally invasive surgeries, as well as more complex abdominal procedures. A graduate of New York’s Columbia University, Dr. Song studied medicine at SUNY Downstate College of Medicine in Brooklyn, New York, and continued her training with fellowships in health equity leadership and gynecologic oncology at University of Minnesota in Minneapolis. Dr. Song is excited about new cancer therapies and is eager to help bring them about through clinical trials. It’s one big reason she’s joined City of Hope which, she says, “has the best ingredients to bring research from the laboratories to clinical trials to the clinic.”

Did you connect with this episode? Share your thoughts with us on social media using #CervivorPodcast or by emailing us.  For more Cervivor-related content, check out: Cervivor.org. Follow Cervivor on all social media platforms. If you would like to be interviewed as a potential guest for an upcoming episode or would like to request a speaker or topic for a future podcast episode, email us at [email protected].

This week is recognized as National Infertility Awareness Week. It is a topic that is so near to our community of cervical cancer and HPV-related cancer patients and survivors. Follow along as we highlight the stories of those impacted in our community and we encourage you to share your story with us as well.

“It seemed like I was constantly sick. I had viral and bacterial infections. But I was also having painful pelvic pain just after my periods would end - a pain so severe, I would be on the ground in a tight ball. My gynecologist couldn't pinpoint the cause. In 2013, my HPV became active again. I was surprised because I was clear since 1991, when I was treated for dysplasia at 20. I had a cervical biopsy but it was clear. The following year, my period abruptly stopped, to my doctor's surprise, and I was officially in menopause. My hopes for motherhood were suddenly over. I didn't think about my Paps, because I was depressed about menopause and the clear biopsy gave me false hope. My pelvic pain seemed to ease up as well. I thought I was out of the woods.”

Lorie Wallace faced the devastating news of infertility just prior to her cervical cancer diagnosis. Listen to Lorie share in her own words during our creative writing session from Cervivor School Nashville. Beyond this, read her Cervivor story at: https://cervivor.org/stories/lorie/.

Did you connect with this content? Share your thoughts with us on social media using #CervivorPodcast or by emailing us.  For more Cervivor-related content, check out: Cervivor.org. Follow Cervivor on all social media platforms. If you would like to be interviewed as a potential guest for an upcoming episode or would like to request a speaker or topic for a future podcast episode, email us at [email protected].