Combating Cancer

Episode 15- Show Notes:

In this episode of Combating Cancer, host Gwen Kelly shares her journey with stage three astrocytoma and the unexpected fertility challenges that came with it. She opens up about the emotional and physical toll of freezing her eggs and stresses the importance of discussing fertility preservation early in cancer treatment. Gwen urges young patients to advocate for their options, including genetic testing, and take control of their future.

Discussed in this episode:

• The Unexpected Journey of Fertility Preservation
• The Emotional and Physical Challenges
• Empowerment Through Choice and Genetic Testing
• Encouragement 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 14- Show Notes:

The episode features host Gwen Kelly, a brain cancer survivor, interviewing her long-time family friend Corry Anderson about her experience with breast cancer. Corry discusses her diagnosis, the challenge of keeping the illness a secret from her children, and her strategy for managing treatments while maintaining family routines. The conversation covers the emotional and physical tolls of chemotherapy, Corry's determination to control her treatment timeline without using a port, and the overwhelming support received from the hockey community. Corry's story highlights resilience, maternal instincts, and the importance of community support in combating cancer.

Discussed in this episode:

• Meet Corry Anderson
• Corry's Diagnosis and Early Days
• Facing Chemotherapy
• The Emotional Toll
• Support Systems and Community
• Life After Cancer

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 13- Show Notes:

In this episode of Combating Cancer, host Gwen Kelly shares her journey with stage three astrocytoma brain cancer, diagnosed at the age of 19. Gwen discusses the subtle and often misattributed symptoms that preceded her diagnosis, including intense back spasms, rib pain, and a concussion-like incident. She emphasizes the importance of early detection and self-advocacy when experiencing unexplained or persistent symptoms. Listeners are informed about various warning signs of brain tumors and encouraged to seek further medical testing if they feel something is off. Gwen's story aims to raise awareness and support for others facing similar challenges in the cancer community.

Discussed in this episode:

• Early Warning Signs of a Brain Tumor
• Where Gwen's Symptoms Began
• Initial Reactions and Diagnosis
• Personal Journey: High School to Diagnosis
• The Seizure and Diagnosis
• Advice 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 12- Show Notes:

In this episode of Combating Cancer, host Gwen Kelly speaks with Scott Kaufman, a father who shares the experience of losing his daughter, Jennifer, to brain cancer. Gwen and Scott discuss the shock of the diagnosis, the challenges of navigating treatment, and the impact it had on their family. Scott reflects on the role his faith played, the support he received from the cancer awareness community, and the ongoing need for research into brain cancer. Together, they underscore the resilience required to face such circumstances and the importance of community and ongoing support.

Discussed in this episode:

• Introducing Special Guest Scott Kaufman
• Scott's Story: Losing a Daughter to Brain Cancer
• Initial Reactions and Diagnosis
• Jennifer's Journey Through Treatment
• The Emotional Toll on Family
• Navigating Hope and Reality
• Final Stages and Acceptance
• Faith and Coping with Loss
• Honoring Jennifer's Legacy

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 11- Show Notes:

In this episode of Combating Cancer, host Gwen Kelly shares her personal story of battling stage three astrocytoma brain cancer. Diagnosed at 19, Gwen discusses the importance of maintaining a positive mindset, establishing a routine, practicing gratitude and prayer, and the benefits of physical exercise even during treatment. She highlights how journaling, staying social, and continuing to engage in enjoyable activities helped her cope with her struggles. Through her experiences, Gwen emphasizes trying to live as normally as possible to find moments of joy and strength amidst the challenges of cancer treatment

Discussed in this episode:

• Maintaining a Positive Mindset
• Establishing a Routine
• Practicing Gratitude and Prayer
• Staying Physically Active
• The Power of Journaling
• Staying Social and Planning Fun
• Biggest Takeaways 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 10- Show Notes:

In this deeply moving episode of Combating Cancer, host Gwen Kelly sits down with Gary Gross, who shares an inspiring and intimate account of his journey as a caregiver to his wife during her battle with stage four pancreatic cancer. Gary reflects on the whirlwind of emotions following her diagnosis, the decisive steps they took toward treatment, and the remarkable story of her becoming NED (No Evidence of Disease) for eight years after chemotherapy, against all odds. He candidly discusses the emotional toll and practical challenges of caregiving, offering heartfelt wisdom and practical guidance for others walking a similar path. Gary underscores the value of acting quickly, seeking second opinions, and, above all, holding onto hope throughout the journey.

Discussed in this episode:

• Guest Introduction: Gary Gross
• Gary's Wife's Diagnosis and Initial Reactions
• Navigating Treatment and Support Systems
• The Role of a Caregiver
• Finding Hope and Advocacy

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 9- Show Notes:

In this episode of Combating Cancer, host Gwen Kelly shares her personal experience of fearing a cancer recurrence after discovering a lump in her breast. Despite being physically fine, Gwen opens up about the emotional turmoil and PTSD triggered by this scare, reflecting on her past battle with brain cancer. She emphasizes the importance of taking health concerns seriously, being proactive, and acknowledging that healing is both physical and emotional. Gwen encourages listeners to be honest about their fears and continue seeking medical help without embarrassment. This episode's story aims to remind others that it's okay to feel scared and that ongoing support and openness are crucial in the journey of healing.

Discussed in this episode:

• The Fear of Recurrence
• Facing the Unknown
• Dealing with Emotional Turmoil
• The Results and Mixed Emotions
• Advice for Others and Closing 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 8- Show Notes:

In this episode of Combating Cancer, host Gwen Kelly speaks with Anthony Pecorella, a survivor of Burkitt lymphoma. Anthony shares his diagnosis journey at 22, his treatment experiences, and the unexpected friendship with a young girl named Eli, also battling cancer. The conversation highlights the mental and emotional toll of cancer, the importance of a supportive community, and finding strength in vulnerability. Anthony discusses how the ordeal has shaped his life, his advocacy for mental health, and his ongoing efforts in public speaking and raising cancer awareness. The episode closes with powerful reflections on enduring relationships formed through shared battles and the lasting impact of inspiration and hope.

Discussed in this episode:

• Anthony's Cancer Journey Begins
• Finding the Right Oncologist
• Anthony's Experience with Inpatient Chemotherapy
• Building Connections Throughout Treatment
• Ringing the Bell: A Milestone in the Cancer Journey
• Eli's GoFundMe and the Power of Community Support
• A Heartbreaking Loss: Remembering Eli
• Emotional Reunion at the Football Game
• Spinal Tap Stories and Finding Humor in Hard Times
• Throwing the First Pitch: A Special Memory
• The Mental and Physical Challenges Post-Cancer
• Faith and Finding Purpose Through Adversity
• Life After Treatment: New Beginnings and Public Speaking
• Final Thoughts and Words of Encouragement

More from Anthony:

Anthony Pecorella is a Division 1 college football player from Malverne, New York. After graduating from Chaminade High School in 2019, he enrolled at the University of Maryland. While there, Anthony showed out both on and off the field. After four years at the University of Maryland, Anthony was set to return home to Long Island to complete his eligibility at Stony Brook University. Unfortunately, Anthony never got the chance to play for Stony Brook due to being diagnosed with Burkitt Lymphoma on July 26, 2023. Now almost two years removed from that diagnosis, Anthony has beaten cancer, achieved two college degrees, and now has his eyes set on returning to the field for the University of Maine this fall. After two years of being on the sidelines, Anthony is ready to get back to playing the game he loves.

Connect with Anthony:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ant_pec98/?hl=en

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/healthyminds____/?hl=en

2024 Team Impact Gala Speech: https://youtu.be/KmlauhkNRkY?si=yf0jE4pkjfZjim6q

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 7- Show Notes:

In this episode of Combating Cancer, host Gwen Kelly shares her deeply personal journey with radiation therapy after being diagnosed with stage three astrocytoma brain cancer at 19. She discusses the emotional challenges and physical side effects she faced, including the loss of her independence and hair, and the impact on her mental health. Gwen speaks candidly about the vital role that support from loved ones played in her journey and offers heartfelt advice to others facing similar challenges. Amid the difficulties, she also reflects on the powerful connections and moments of hope that gave her strength along the way.

Discussed in this episode:

• Discovering the Tumor and Initial Challenges

• The Starting Phases of Radiation

• The Mask Fitting Experience

• Coping with Side Effects

• The Emotional Toll of Hair Loss

• Ringing the Bell and Moving Forward

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 6- Show Notes:

In this episode of Combating Cancer, host Gwen Kelly welcomes guest Tiffanie Thomson, who shares the emotional impact of both her parents being diagnosed with glioblastoma. They discuss the challenges caregivers face, the need for greater awareness, improved treatments, and increased funding for research. Tiffany also offers coping strategies and resources, highlighting the vital role of community and support during difficult times.

Discussed in this episode:

• Connecting Through Shared Experiences

• Tiffanie's Parents Battle Against GBM

• The Emotional Toll of Cancer

• Raising Awareness and the Need for Better Treatments

• Advice for Caregivers

• Final Thoughts and Encouragement

More from Tiffanie:

"Brain cancer, particularly glioblastoma, is a devastating disease with limited treatment options. There's a pressing need for increased awareness, funding for research, and advancements in treatment beyond the current standard of care. Together, we can make a small difference that will move the needle forward to the big change we are all hoping for. Remember to take care of yourself. It's ok to feel your feelings. Be present. The only way out is through and the other side is feeling at peace with it. It never goes away and never gets easier, but remember you are never alone".

"4. Always be full of joy in the Lord; I say it again, rejoice! 5. Let everyone see that you are unselfish and considerate in all you do. Remember that the Lord is coming soon. 6. Don't worry about any-thing; instead, pray about every-thing; tell God your needs, and don't forget to thank him for his answers. 7. If you do this you will experience God's peace, which is far more wonderful than the human mind can understand. His peace will keep your thoughts and your hearts quiet and at rest as you trust in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4 4-7

Shout-Outs from Tiffanie:

• "To my new friends in the brain cancer community whom I met on LinkedIn".
• "To Anne Beebe, running the fundraising program over there at the Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center at Duke (PRTBTC) through Angels Among Us".
• "All my new friends on the Angels Among Us committee".

Sources of Information: To ensure the most current and detailed statistics, it is always best to consult with official sources such as:

• The American Cancer Society: cancer.org
• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: cdc.gov
• National Brain Tumor Society: braintumor.org
• Click the link to learn more about the Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center at Duke, a leading institution in brain tumor research and treatment. The center's website highlights the latest advancements, clinical trials, and research breakthroughs, as well as information about the "Angels Among Us" fundraising group that supports critical research and patient care initiatives: https://tischbraintumorcenter.duke.edu

Resources for Listeners Seeking Help or Information:

• UNC's Comprehensive Cancer Center, which offers valuable support for patients and families, including nutrition and supplement education, exercise programs, and therapy groups to help navigate the cancer journey: https://unclineberger.org/events/category/ccsp/
• Duke Cancer Center: https://tischbraintumorcenter.duke.edu/
• Grief Loss: RISE with grief: Grief & Loss Coaching

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