Episode 33- Show Notes:

In this episode of Combating Cancer, host Gwen Kelly shares her cancer journey from being diagnosed with stage three astrocytoma brain cancer at 19 to starting and evolving her podcast. Gwen discusses the isolating experience of being a young cancer patient and the calling she felt to share her story. She reflects on how the podcast has facilitated personal healing and connected her to a community of fighters, survivors, caregivers, and grieving families. As the New Year approaches, Gwen outlines her renewed goals for the podcast, emphasizing the importance of addressing unspoken challenges, such as survivor's guilt and emotional recovery. She expresses gratitude for the support and stories shared by her listeners and invites them to continue being a part of the Combating Cancer community.

Discussed in this episode:

• Welcome to Combating Cancer
• Gwen's Personal Cancer Journey
• The Birth of the Podcast
• Finding My Voice and Healing
• The Emotional Journey of Cancer
• Looking Ahead: Future Topics and Gratitude

More from Gwen:

Get in touch with our team for sponsorship inquiries or guest host submissions: [email protected]

Follow and join the community:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CombatingCancer

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/combating-cancer/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1BwfwuJT81/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/combatingcancer_?igsh=azNjM3RlcmJwcWxn

Episode 32- Show Notes:

In this heartfelt episode of Combating Cancer, host Gwen Kelly invites Johnny Hamann, a former college baseball player and founder of the nonprofit Hamann's Helping Hands, to share his impactful journey. Johnny opens up about supporting his brother Joey through a rare form of bone cancer, becoming his bone marrow donor, and the inspiration behind starting a nonprofit to bring Christmas joy to children hospitalized during the holidays. Tackling themes of faith, family, and resilience, Johnny's story is a powerful testament to turning personal pain into purpose. He also discusses the nuances of his nonprofit work, the challenges faced by cancer survivors and their families, and offers advice for siblings of cancer patients on maintaining strength and normalcy.

Discussed in this episode:

• Welcome to Combating Cancer
• Introducing Johnny Hamann
• Johnny's Background and Nonprofit Work
• Johnny's Brother's Cancer Diagnosis
• Bone Marrow Transplant Journey
• Founding Hamann's Helping Hands
• Impact and Future of the Nonprofit
• Conclusion and How to Get Involved

More from Johnny:

Website: https://hamannshelpinghands.org

Donate: https://hamannshelpinghands.org/donate-now/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100088357356185

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hamannshelpinghands/

More from Gwen:

Get in touch with our team for sponsorship inquiries or guest host submissions: [email protected]

Follow and join the community:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CombatingCancer

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/combating-cancer/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1BwfwuJT81/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/combatingcancer_?igsh=azNjM3RlcmJwcWxn

Episode 31- Show Notes:

In this episode of Combating Cancer, host Gwen Kelly shares her personal journey with stage three astrocytoma brain cancer, discussing the long-term side effects she experiences post-treatment and surgery. Gwen covers a range of issues, including physical limitations, social anxiety, memory problems, sensory overload, and the emotional struggles of adapting to a new normal. She emphasizes the importance of acknowledging these challenges, grieving the loss of former selves, and finding resilience during recovery. Gwen also encourages listeners to share their own stories and reach out for support, reinforcing that no one should navigate cancer alone.

Discussed in this episode:

• Welcome to Combating Cancer
• Physical Side Effects
• Social Anxiety After Cancer
• Memory Issues and Light Sensitivity
• Coping and Acceptance
• Conclusion and Community

More from Gwen:

Get in touch with our team for sponsorship inquiries or guest host submissions: [email protected]

Follow and join the community:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CombatingCancer

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/combating-cancer/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1BwfwuJT81/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/combatingcancer_?igsh=azNjM3RlcmJwcWxn

Episode 30- Show Notes:

In this episode of Combating Cancer, host Gwen Kelly speaks with Anthony Cesarini, who shares his family's extensive history with cancer across generations. Anthony recounts the experiences of his father, mother, sister, and brother with various types of cancer, as well as his own proactive health measures. The episode delves into the emotional impact of caregiving, the value of hospice care, and the importance of showing support for loved ones diagnosed with cancer. Anthony's story emphasizes resilience, family support, and the significance of early detection.

Discussed in this episode:

• Welcome to Combating Cancer
• Introducing Anthony Cesarini
• Supporting a Loved One Through Cancer
• The Role of Hospice Care
• Advice on Supporting Friends with Cancer
• Closing Remarks and Gratitude

More from Gwen:

Get in touch with our team for sponsorship inquiries or guest host submissions: [email protected]

Follow and join the community:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CombatingCancer

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/combating-cancer/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1BwfwuJT81/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/combatingcancer_?igsh=azNjM3RlcmJwcWxn

Episode 29- Show Notes:

In this episode of Combating Cancer, host Gwen Kelly shares her personal experience as a cancer survivor dealing with the challenges of flu season. She discusses the long-lasting effects of cancer treatment on the immune system, including chronic fatigue, brain fog, and a heightened vulnerability to illnesses. Gwen emphasizes the importance of understanding that post-treatment survivors may not 'bounce back' to normal health immediately and need ongoing support from their loved ones. She also offers practical advice on how to strengthen the immune system through sleep, nutrition, exercise, and stress management.

Discussed in this episode:

• Welcome to Combating Cancer
• The Impact of Cancer Diagnosis
• Flu Season Challenges for Survivors
• Personal Anecdotes and Immune System Struggles
• Hope and Healing for Survivors
• Message to Caregivers and Loved Ones
• Final Thoughts and Community Engagement

More from Gwen:

Get in touch with our team for sponsorship inquiries or guest host submissions: [email protected]

Follow and join the community:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CombatingCancer

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/combating-cancer/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1BwfwuJT81/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/combatingcancer_?igsh=azNjM3RlcmJwcWxn

Episode 28- Show Notes:

In this episode of Combating Cancer, host Gwen Kelly welcomes talented artist Jewels Yocum, who designed the podcast's logo and creates meaningful tattoos for cancer survivors and their supporters. They discuss the emotional and physical connection in the tattooing process, particularly for those impacted by cancer, including commemorative cancer ribbon tattoos and transformative tattoos post-mastectomy. Jewels shares her commitment to helping people reclaim their power and story through body art, aiming to provide a safe, empathetic space for healing and connection.

Discussed in this episode:

• Welcome to Combating Cancer
• Introducing Special Guest: Jewels Yocum
• The Power of Tattoos in Cancer Journeys
• Emotional Connections Through Tattooing
• Reclaiming Power Through Art
• Jewels' Journey into Tattooing
• Closing Thoughts and Community Support

More from Jewels:

LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/juliayocum?utm_source=linktree_profile_share

More from Gwen:

Get in touch with our team for sponsorship inquiries or guest host submissions: [email protected]

Follow and join the community:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CombatingCancer

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/combating-cancer/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1BwfwuJT81/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/combatingcancer_?igsh=azNjM3RlcmJwcWxn

Episode 27- Show Notes:

In this heartfelt episode of Combating Cancer, host Gwen Kelly addresses the overlooked challenges faced by caregivers of cancer patients. Drawing from her personal battle with stage three Astrocytoma brain cancer, Gwen underscores the emotional, spiritual, and psychological toll that the disease takes on loved ones. She shares anecdotes and advice on how caregivers can support patients while also taking care of their own well-being. Gwen emphasizes the importance of acknowledging the pain of caregivers, offering sincere support, showing up in small, meaningful ways, and maintaining faith and love through the journey. The episode serves as a reminder that cancer affects everyone in the patient's circle and provides actionable insights for both patients and caregivers to navigate their shared struggles.

Discussed in this episode:

• Welcome and Introduction
• A Personal Journey with Cancer
• The Emotional Impact on Loved Ones
• Acknowledging Caregivers' Struggles
• Practical Advice for Caregivers
• Faith and Acceptance
• Closing Thoughts and Gratitude

More from Gwen:

Get in touch with our team for sponsorship inquiries or guest host submissions: [email protected]

Follow and join the community:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CombatingCancer

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/combating-cancer/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1BwfwuJT81/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/combatingcancer_?igsh=azNjM3RlcmJwcWxn

Episode 26- Show Notes:

In this episode of Combating Cancer, host Gwen Kelly discusses with Christina Repetti her experience battling non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Christina shares the story of her initial diagnosis after experiencing severe stomach pain, her treatment process, which included surgery and chemotherapy, and the fertility preservation steps she took before starting her cancer treatment. Christina also talks about the emotional challenges, particularly dealing with hair loss, and the importance of staying positive. She highlights the support she received from her family and friends, the significance of kind healthcare providers, and her journey towards remission. In addition, Christina discusses her book of poems written during her journey, aimed at providing comfort and inspiration to others affected by cancer.

Discussed in this episode:

• Meet Christina Repetti
• Christina's Diagnosis Journey
• Chemotherapy and Its Challenges
• Life After Treatment
• Words of Wisdom and Support
• Christina's Poetry and Final Thoughts
• Conclusion and Contact Information

More from Christina:

Instagram: @christinarepettibooks

Christina's Book: https://a.co/d/b1x7rRR

More from Gwen:

Get in touch with our team for sponsorship inquiries or guest host submissions: [email protected]

Follow and join the community:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CombatingCancer

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/combating-cancer/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1BwfwuJT81/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/combatingcancer_?igsh=azNjM3RlcmJwcWxn

Episode 25- Show Notes:

In this episode of Combating Cancer, host Gwen Kelly shares her personal story of being diagnosed with stage three Astrocytoma brain cancer at 19, while studying at Molloy University. She details the challenges she faced, including balancing treatment with her education, and how Molloy University provided extraordinary support. Gwen emphasizes the importance of the right mindset, supportive environment, and legal rights under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) for students managing serious health conditions. Her narrative underscores the possibility of pursuing dreams and education even amidst significant health struggles, culminating in her early graduation and the emotional decision to participate in the graduation ceremony.

Discussed in this episode:

• Welcome and Introduction
• Gwen's Cancer Diagnosis and Inspiration
• Balancing School and Treatment
• Support from Molloy University
• Legal Rights and Graduation Decision
• Graduation Day and Reflections
• Encouragement and Closing Remarks

More from Gwen:

Get in touch with our team for sponsorship inquiries or guest host submissions: [email protected]

Follow and join the community:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CombatingCancer

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/combating-cancer/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1BwfwuJT81/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/combatingcancer_?igsh=azNjM3RlcmJwcWxn

Episode 24- Show Notes:

In this episode of Combating Cancer, host Gwen Kelly—a survivor of stage three astrocytoma brain cancer—welcomes Jake Messier, a male breast cancer survivor, for an eye-opening conversation. Together, they shed light on the often-overlooked topic of male breast cancer awareness, especially during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Jake opens up about his personal journey, the lack of understanding and research surrounding male breast cancer, and the unique challenges men face after diagnosis. The episode also explores his powerful advocacy work and social media efforts to educate, inspire, and break the stigma surrounding men and breast cancer.

Discussed in this episode:

• Introducing Jake Messier
• Men and Breast Cancer Awareness
• Challenges in Male Breast Cancer Research
• The Ethan Trial and Treatment Differences
• Advocacy and Social Media Impact
• Survivorship and Mental Health
• Support System and Final Thoughts

More from Jake:

Connect with Jake: @theguywithstage4breastcancer

More from Gwen:

Get in touch with our team for sponsorship inquiries or guest host submissions: [email protected]

Follow and join the community:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CombatingCancer

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/combating-cancer/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1BwfwuJT81/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/combatingcancer_?igsh=azNjM3RlcmJwcWxn