Combating Cancer

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

Episode 23- Show Notes:

In this special episode of Combating Cancer, host Gwen Kelly shares the incredible news about her latest MRI scan results and reflects on her journey with stage three astrocytoma brain cancer. Gwen opens up about the emotional and spiritual challenges she faced while waiting for the scan, the powerful role of faith in her life, and the immense support from her loved ones and community. Join her as she discusses how gratitude and trust in God have transformed her mindset, allowing her to live each day with purpose and joy. Don't miss Gwen's heartfelt message of hope, resilience, and the power of prayer.

Discussed in this episode:

• Welcome and Introduction
• Gwen's Personal Cancer Journey
• Scan Update and Emotional Journey
• Faith and Gratitude
• Support System and Final Thoughts

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 22- Show Notes:

In this episode of Combating Cancer, host Gwen Kelly invites Ella Lang to share her inspiring journey with cancer. Diagnosed with a rare childhood liver cancer at the age of 16, Ella recounts the shock of her diagnosis, the challenges of losing her hair, and the emotional aftermath of her treatment. Both Gwen and Ella discuss the support system provided by family, the difficulties of dealing with cancer rumors in high school, and the importance of showing resilience. Ella also highlights her transition to college life and her aspirations for the future. This heartfelt conversation offers hope and solidarity to young cancer patients and survivors.

Discussed in this episode:

• Meet Ella Lang
• Ella's Diagnosis Journey
• Coping with Cancer in High School
• The Emotional Aftermath
• Family Support and Strength
• Looking Forward: College and Future Plans
• Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up

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 21- Show Notes:

In this episode of Combating Cancer, host Gwen Kelly shares her personal journey with stage three astrocytoma brain cancer, emphasizing the importance of mindset in overcoming adversity. Gwen discusses the tendency to fall into a victim mentality and how to shift towards a more empowering perspective. She reflects on her own struggles, including recent disappointing scan results, and highlights the significance of acknowledging pain without letting it define one's identity. The episode also touches on the universality of grief and challenges, the encouragement to avoid comparison, and the power of resilience and purpose. Gwen concludes by challenging listeners to live with intention, despite facing life's storms, and to find strength in the shared human experience.

Discussed in this episode:

• Personal Journey with Cancer
• The Power of Mindset
• Facing the 'Why Me?' Question
• Understanding Others' Struggles
• Recent Challenges and Vulnerabilities
• Shifting from Victim to Survivor
• Living with Terminal Illness
• Embracing Life Beyond Diagnosis
• The Thief of Comparison
• Finding Strength in Adversity
• Final Thoughts and Encouragement

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 20- Show Notes:

In this episode of Combating Cancer, host Gwen Kelly, a brain cancer survivor, speaks with hairstylist and hair loss specialist Nikki Yokom. The discussion centers around Gwen's personal journey with hair loss due to cancer treatment, and how Nikki's expertise in hairpieces and extensions helped her regain confidence. The episode highlights the emotional struggles of hair loss, the importance of finding a supportive hairstylist, and the availability of various hair solutions for those undergoing cancer treatment. Nikki shares insights into the growing acceptance of accessory hair and the importance of creating a safe, non-judgmental environment for clients. The episode also underscores the significance of building strong, supportive communities for cancer patients

Discussed in this episode:

• Meet Nikki Yokom: A Special Guest
• Gwen and Nikki's Journey Together
• Hair Solutions During Cancer Treatment
• Emotional Support and Community
• Normalizing Hair Pieces and Accessories
• The Importance of a Safe Space
• Building Lasting Relationships
• Options and Resources for Hair Loss
• Conclusion and Final Thoughts

More from Nikki:

The Hygge House: https://cybelestyles.glossgenius.com

Book Now: https://cybelestyles.glossgenius.com/services

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

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 19- Show Notes:

In this episode of Combating Cancer, host Gwen Kelly opens up about the difficult and emotional journey of survivorship after cancer. She revisits her personal story of being diagnosed with stage three astrocytoma brain cancer at 19 and talks about the emotional roller coaster she recently experienced when a routine scan showed a new, uncertain spot in her brain. Gwen discusses the struggles of living in the in-between after treatment, balancing fear and hope, and the importance of allowing oneself to feel all emotions. She also emphasizes the importance of choosing to live courageously and fully in the present, rather than letting fear dictate joy. Gwen shares powerful advice from her father and encourages listeners to build a life not ruled by fear, emphasizing that being alive and present is already a significant achievement.

Discussed in this episode:

• Recent Scan Results and Emotional Impact
• Facing Fear and Finding Strength
• Life After Cancer: Challenges and Choices
• Living in the Present
• Closing Thoughts and Community Support

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 18- Show Notes:

In this episode of Combating Cancer, host Gwen Kelly welcomes Austin Kalmes to share his unique and inspirational journey. Austin opens up about being diagnosed with osteosarcoma at age 15 during the pandemic, the physical and emotional battles he faced, and the mindset that helped him overcome these challenges. They discuss Austin's surgeries, his emotional recovery, how his family's support played a crucial role, and the impact cancer has had on his life goals and perspectives. This heartfelt conversation highlights the resilience required to combat cancer and offers hope and guidance to others navigating through similar experiences.

Discussed in this episode:

• Meet Austin Kalmes: A Unique Journey
• Austin's Diagnosis and Initial Reactions
• Life Before and After Diagnosis
• The Treatment Journey Begins
• Facing Emotional and Physical Challenges
• Life After Cancer: Reflections and Insights
• Final Thoughts and Takeaways
• Closing Remarks and Support

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 17- Show Notes:

In this episode of Combating Cancer, host Gwen Kelly opens up about her struggles with anxiety before her upcoming brain scan. She shares her personal journey, including her diagnosis with stage three astrocytoma brain cancer at the age of 19, the emotional and physical challenges she faces, and the support systems that help her cope. Gwen also discusses the feelings of survivor's guilt and the mental turmoil that scan weeks bring. She emphasizes the importance of community and solidarity within those affected by cancer, assuring listeners that they are not alone in their fears and anxieties. Gwen encourages her audience to share their stories, reaching out for support as well.

Discussed in this episode:

• A Difficult Week and Upcoming Scans
• Struggles with Anxiety and Survivor's Guilt
• Coping Mechanisms and Scan Week Challenges
• Message of Solidarity and Conclusion

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 16- Show Notes:

In this poignant episode of Combating Cancer, host Gwen Kelly speaks with Ingrid Blanco, who shares her profound personal experience of losing multiple family members to cancer. The conversation delves deep into the emotional challenges and the resilient spirits of her grandmother, aunt, and uncle as they each faced this terrible disease. Ingrid recounts the heartache of not being able to physically support her family due to immigration status, the shock and denial that accompanied her relatives' diagnoses, and the profound grief and helplessness felt during their passing. This episode sheds light on the emotional impact of cancer on both patients and their families, offering a raw and inspiring reflection on love, loss, and the importance of support in the face of such trials.

Discussed in this episode:

• Meet Ingrid Blanco
• Ingrid's Family Cancer Journey
• Grieving and Coping with Loss
• Facing the Reality of Cancer
• The Emotional Toll on Family
• Ingrid's Uncle's Battle with Cancer
• Final Days and Reflections

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