Dear Cancer, I'm Beautiful

In this deeply moving episode of "Dear Cancer, I'm Beautiful," I sit down with Dr. Liz O'Riordan, a former breast surgeon who has faced breast cancer three times and emerged as a powerful voice in the community. Dr. O'Riordan shares her personal battle with depression during her cancer treatment, a struggle that many patients face but few openly discuss.

Learn how Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) became a beacon of hope in her darkest hours. Dr. O'Riordan explains how CBT provided her with the tools to manage her fears, process her emotions, and ultimately reclaim her life. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of mental health support for those battling cancer.

This episode sheds light on the mental health challenges of breast cancer and offers valuable insights for those facing similar struggles.

In this episode of the new series "Decoding Destiny: Navigating Breast Cancer with Genetic Insight," host Melissa Berry and her mother share a heartfelt conversation on the profound impact of genetic testing. From the decision to undergo BRCA testing to the discovery that both Melissa and her brother Matt carry the BRCA gene, they explore the power of knowledge, the strength of family, and the vital role of early intervention. This episode underscores the importance of proactive healthcare and family support in navigating life-changing decisions. Thank you to Merck and AstraZeneca for making this episode possible!

Welcome to another episode of “Your Voice. Your Health.” In this enlightening discussion, host Melissa Berry is joined by Dr. Rishi Garg, Assistant Professor of Neurology at Loyola University Medical Center and Medical Director of Financial Clearance.

Dr. Garg delves into the challenges of step therapy, including how automated decisions can impact cancer patients and why it's so critical to persist despite initial denials. Together, they explore common reasons for step therapy denials, strategies for successful appeals, and the vital role of healthcare providers in supporting patients.

Additionally, Dr. Garg will share inspiring success stories and discuss ongoing legislative efforts to reform step therapy practices. Tune in to learn how to advocate effectively for yourself and navigate these healthcare hurdles with confidence.

Thank you to Amgen for making this episode possible!

You’re going to love my amazing new friend Stephanie Germino, a passionate advocate for body positivity and the driving force behind the 'Boobless Babe' movement. At 27, Stephanie discovered she was BRCA positive, and at 28, she chose a bilateral prophylactic mastectomy with an aesthetic flat closure. This decision transformed her confidence and redefined her perspective on beauty. Join us for a powerful conversation about Stephanie's journey of empowerment and resilience, and how she now helps others embrace their bodies post-mastectomy. Discover how Stephanie feels more beautiful, sexier, and confident than ever before!

Welcome to another episode of "Dear Cancer, I'm Beautiful," part of the "Your Voice. Your Health." series. In this episode, I'm so honored to have Andrea Hans as my guest today - a breast cancer survivor, and passionate advocate for the Safe Step Act. Andrea will guide us through what this legislation entails, why it's crucial for cancer patients, and how its passage could significantly improve outcomes by addressing step therapy barriers. Join us for an insightful discussion that highlights the importance of advocacy in healthcare. Thank you to Amgen for making this series possible!

You’re going to love my amazing friend, Caryn Sullivan, founder of Pretty Wellness and a Stage IV TNBC thriver.

Caryn shares her inspiring story, from her initial cancer diagnosis 20 years ago to how a later stage 4 diagnosis transformed her life. Initially focused on her corporate career, Caryn's journey led her to prioritize wellness and self-care.

Discover how her focus has evolved towards a life centered on well-being and learn her top 5 wellness tips for looking and feeling beautiful from the inside out. Don't miss this episode as Caryn reflects on her cancer journey and its profound impact on her lifestyle—and how it can positively impact yours!

Welcome to another episode of, "Your Voice. Your Health," a special series dedicated to empowering patients and caregivers as they navigate the complexities of step therapy. Today we delve into the transformative world of personalized medicine and its potential to enhance your current treatment plans. 

Join us as we sit down with Cynthia A. Bens, Senior Vice President of Public Policy at the Personalized Medicine Coalition. Cynthia shares her invaluable insights on how personalized medicine is revolutionizing healthcare and offers practical advice on leveraging it for the best possible outcomes. Plus, learn about the groundbreaking policy work Cynthia and PMC are championing to support the adoption of personalized medicine.

Tune in and discover how personalized medicine can be the upgrade your healthcare journey needs!

Welcome to another episode of the "Your. Voice. Your Health." podcast series, where we amplify the voices of experts and advocates in the realm of step therapy and utilization management. In this episode, we delve into the complexities of patient advocacy and learn about precision medicine.

Our guest, Daneen Sekoni, Vice President of Policy and Advocacy at Cancer Support Community, shares some invaluable insights about overcoming healthcare obstacles.

Don’t miss this thought-provoking discussion that promises to empower patients and caregivers alike in their healthcare journey!

If you’re a breast cancer patient or caregiver seeking a one-stop-shopping resource, then look no further! Meet my friend Virginia Carnesale, founder and CEO of Stage. After being diagnosed with breast cancer in 2018, Virginia realized there was a significant lack of products designed to help cancer patients look and feel their best. 

In 2022, she launched ShopStage.co, a mission-driven marketplace offering everything from expert interviews to stylish, treatment-tested products. On ShopStage.co, you can find all kinds of breast cancer-related fashion, beauty, and lifestyle solutions all in one place. 

Join us as we dive into Virginia's inspiring story, explore the why behind her mission, discover how she finds and tests the products, and learn which ones are her favorites!

On National Clinical Trials Day, we're joined by my dear friend Ricki Fairley. She’s the founder of Touch, The Black Breast Cancer Alliance, and a 13-year triple-negative breast cancer survivor. 

Ricki shares her journey, highlighting disparities faced by Black women in breast cancer care. We discuss the vital need for inclusivity in clinical trials, stressing their importance for everyone.