What does it mean when a stranger who understands your cancer journey becomes family?

Stephen, a brain cancer survivor, and his husband and caregiver, Calvin, share a deeply moving story about diagnosis, fear, friendship, and the unexpected gift of human connection. After Stephen experienced a seizure at work, doctors discovered a brain tumor that changed the course of their lives. Through the support of family, coworkers, faith, and the CanCare community, Stephen was matched with Johnny, a fellow brain cancer survivor who quickly became far more than a mentor.

What started as peer support turned into a daily brotherhood built on honesty, humor, and shared understanding. Johnny helped Stephen see himself as a survivor and reminded him that life was still meant to be lived fully. Calvin opens up about the caregiver role, the helplessness that can come with it, and how Johnny filled a gap no medical treatment could reach. Together, they reflect on grief, resilience, and the kind of connection that leaves a permanent mark on your life.

This conversation is a tribute to Johnny’s legacy and a reminder that even in the hardest seasons, people can show up with extraordinary love, hope, and compassion.

Highlights:

· Discover how shared lived experience can create healing in ways medical care alone cannot.

· Learn why caregivers often carry emotions differently while still becoming a steady source of strength.

· Hear how humor, honesty, and everyday conversations became part of surviving brain cancer.

· Explore how support systems from family, coworkers, faith, and community can shape recovery and resilience.

· Understand why opening yourself to connection during hardship can change the entire cancer journey.

Mentioned Resources:

CanCare- www.cancare.org

About the Guest:

Stephen Hudson is a brain cancer survivor, devoted husband, and living testament to the power of human connection. When his diagnosis turned his world upside down, he leaned on his faith, his family, and ultimately a friendship that would change his life. Through CanCare, Stephen was matched with volunteer Johnny Parry, a fellow survivor who walked beside him with understanding, steadiness, and a brotherhood that became one of the most meaningful relationships of his journey. Sadly, Johnny passed away late last year. Stephen made the courageous choice to continue with this episode to honor Johnny's life and legacy. Calvin, Stephen's husband and caregiver, has been present through every moment of this journey and is here to share his heart as well.

Love the podcast? You’ll be moved by the book. The Hope in the Face of Cancer book shares inspiring, real stories from survivors, caregivers, and healthcare heroes. Raw, uplifting, and full of heart—for anyone seeking hope and connection. Get your copy: cancare.org/hopebook.

About Our Host:

Darcie Champagne Wells is the President and CEO of CanCare, Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to providing support to the cancer community by pairing cancer patients with survivors. Since joining in November 2020 as the third President & CEO, Darcie has driven significant growth, increasing one-to-one support matches by 45% and healthcare referrals by 66%. In 2022, she initiated the Impact Acceleration Initiative to further expand support for cancer patients and caregivers. Her leadership has earned her recognition as a “Most Admired CEO” and “Woman Who Means Business” by the Houston Business Journal, and national “Fundraiser of the Year” by RAISE. Darcie holds a BS in Business Administration from Louisiana State University and an MBA from the University of Houston.

https://www.cancare.org/

https://www.facebook.com/CanCareInc

https://www.instagram.com/cancare_inc

Thanks for tuning in to Hope in the Face of Cancer!

We’re so glad you’re here. If this episode moved you, inspired you, or brought you a little bit of light, please share it with someone who might need it. Just hit the share button on this page or spread the word on social—your voice helps us reach more hearts.

🎧 Never miss an episode!

Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your favorite podcasts to get updates as soon as new episodes drop.

⭐ Help us grow with a quick review

If you’re enjoying the podcast, leaving a review on Apple Podcasts goes a long way. It helps others discover the show and reminds us that these stories matter. Take a moment to leave a review—we read every one!

📖 Enjoy the podcast? You’ll love the book.

Check out our book, Hope in the Face of Cancer—a powerful collection of real stories from survivors, caregivers, and healthcare heroes. It’s uplifting, raw, and full of heart. Get your copy at cancare.org/hopebook.

What helps someone move from fear to hope after hearing the words “you have cancer”?

In this heartfelt episode of Hope in the Face of Cancer, Sandra Beno shares how her breast cancer diagnosis changed the course of her life and deepened her commitment to serving others. Sandra opens up about navigating treatment while raising young children, balancing work as a high-level executive, and learning how to advocate for herself during one of the hardest seasons of her life.

She talks about the power of community, faith, and finding small ways to regain control during treatment. From coloring books and gratitude notes to building a support network and focusing on progress one step at a time, Sandra offers practical tools and emotional encouragement for anyone facing cancer or caring for someone who is. She also shares why she now mentors cancer patients one-on-one and how her work with CanCare helps bring hope to families across the country.

This conversation is a reminder that even in the hardest seasons, you are stronger than you think, and you never have to walk through cancer alone.

Highlights:

· Learn how to advocate for yourself when medical information feels overwhelming.

· Hear practical ways to stay emotionally grounded during chemotherapy and treatment.

· Discover how caregivers can support loved ones without feeling powerless.

· Understand why community and connection matter so much during a cancer journey.

· Find encouragement for navigating life after treatment and embracing a new normal.

Mentioned Resources:

CanCare- www.cancare.org

About the Guest:

Sandra Beno is a breast cancer survivor, seasoned executive, and lifelong mentor. A wife, mother, and woman of faith, Sandra faced her diagnosis with honesty, resilience, and grace, leaning on her faith and family to carry her through. Since then, she has personally walked alongside more than 30 cancer patients one on one, offering comfort and presence in their hardest days. Sandra serves as Board Chair of CanCare

What if cancer became the moment that finally brought you back to life?

In this episode, Thandi Montgomery, coach, speaker, and founder of Thandi Monee, shares how a stage one breast cancer diagnosis at age 38 reshaped everything. A busy advertising executive and mom of two, she moved from constant motion to a life grounded in purpose, self-advocacy, and healing.

Her journey began with a simple self-exam that led to early detection and a life changing diagnosis. Through four surgeries, 16 rounds of chemotherapy, and 30 days of radiation, she chose to actively partner in her care. She blended traditional treatment with integrative practices like nutrition, acupuncture, and mindfulness. Creativity became her outlet, helping her process fear, reclaim control, and document her experience through writing and film.

Thandi introduces her RISE framework, guiding others to recognize what happened, identify needed changes, set a new path, and elevate their voice. She speaks honestly about survivorship, including fear, identity shifts, and the ongoing work of healing.

Her story is a reminder that even in the hardest moments, there is space to rediscover who you are and choose how you want to live moving forward.

Highlights:

· How self-advocacy can change the speed and outcome of your diagnosis

· What it looks like to combine medical treatment with holistic healing

· How creativity can help you process fear and regain control

· Why survivorship is often harder than treatment itself

· How to shift from simply existing to living with intention

Mentioned Resources:

CanCare- www.cancare.org

Book – www.cancare.org/hopebook

Thandi Montgomery –www.thandimonee.com

About the Guest:

Thandi Montgomery is a breast cancer survivor, coach, speaker, and founder of Thandi Monee. Through transformational programs she empowers cancer survivors to thrive and unlock their truth. Her work centers creativity, and community, offering unwavering support and whole person guidance throughout every stage of the cancer journey. She also partners with DO Cancer to expand access to education and awareness.

Love the podcast? You’ll be moved by the book. The Hope in the Face of Cancer book shares inspiring, real stories from survivors, caregivers, and healthcare heroes. Raw, uplifting, and full of heart—for anyone seeking hope and connection. Get your copy: cancare.org/hopebook.

About Our Host:

Darcie Champagne Wells is the President and CEO of CanCare, Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to providing support to the cancer community by pairing cancer patients with survivors. Since joining in November 2020 as the third President & CEO, Darcie has driven significant growth, increasing one-to-one support matches by 45% and healthcare referrals by 66%. In 2022, she initiated the Impact Acceleration Initiative to further expand support for cancer patients and caregivers. Her leadership has earned her recognition as a “Most Admired CEO” and “Woman Who Means Business” by the Houston Business Journal, and national “Fundraiser of the Year” by RAISE. Darcie holds a BS in Business Administration from Louisiana State University and an MBA from the University of Houston.

https://www.cancare.org/

https://www.facebook.com/CanCareInc

https://www.instagram.com/cancare_inc

Thanks for tuning in to Hope in the Face of Cancer!

We’re so glad you’re here. If this episode moved you, inspired you, or brought you a little bit of light, please share it with someone who might need it. Just hit the share button on this page or spread the word on social—your voice helps us reach more hearts.

🎧 Never miss an episode!

Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your favorite podcasts to get updates as soon as new episodes drop.

⭐ Help us grow with a quick review

If you’re enjoying the podcast, leaving a review on Apple Podcasts goes a long way. It helps others discover the show and reminds us that these stories matter. Take a moment to leave a review—we read every one!

📖 Enjoy the podcast? You’ll love the book.

Check out our book, Hope in the Face of Cancer—a powerful collection of real stories from survivors, caregivers, and healthcare heroes. It’s uplifting, raw, and full of heart. Get your copy at cancare.org/hopebook.

What does it take to face a cancer diagnosis in your 40s while raising young children?

Kristy Bradshaw, MBA graduate from Stanford, former ballerina, and portfolio management professional, shares her stage three colon cancer journey diagnosed at age 43. In this conversation, she opens up about early detection, mental health in cancer, caregiver experiences, and the importance of support systems.

Kristy’s turning point came unexpectedly during a routine procedure that revealed cancer despite no symptoms or risk factors. What followed was surgery, chemotherapy, and the emotional weight of navigating uncertainty while parenting three young children. She speaks honestly about the loneliness of diagnosis, the shock of progression to stage three, and the mental strength required to keep moving forward.

Throughout her journey, Kristy leaned on faith, family, and community. She highlights practical tools like staying active when possible, maintaining normal routines for her children, and finding small moments of gratitude even during treatment. Her experience later deepened as she stepped into a caregiver role for her father.

Her message is simple and powerful. You are not alone. There is support. And even in the hardest moments, hope can still be found.

Highlights:

· Why early screening matters more than ever for younger adults

· How to talk to your children about a cancer diagnosis

· What no one tells you about the mental side of treatment

· Simple ways to stay grounded during chemo and recovery

· How community and shared experience change the journey

Mentioned Resources:

CanCare- www.cancare.org

Book – www.cancare.org/hopebook

About the Guest:

Kristy Bradshaw is a Stage III colon cancer survivor, former ballerina turned Stanford MBA and portfolio manager whose life took an unexpected turn in 2023 when she received her diagnosis at age 43. A wife, mother of three, community leader, and philanthropist. Since then, she has watched cancer touch the lives of those closest to her, including her father, and has chosen to step forward with her cancer journey. Kristy is the 2026 Chair of CanCare's HOPE Survivorship Luncheon

What if the key to healing isn’t just treatment, but how you support your body along the way?

We are joined by Patrice Surley, oncology nutritionist and functional health expert with over 25 years of experience helping patients strengthen their bodies during cancer care. Patrice blends evidence-based nutrition with whole-person support, working alongside medical teams to improve outcomes and quality of life.

Her journey began with her own health struggles, where diet and lifestyle changes made a real difference. That personal turning point shaped her belief that healing starts by meeting each person where they are and helping them take simple, meaningful steps forward.

Patrice explains the concept of immuno stress and how factors like poor nutrition, sleep, and emotional strain can weaken the immune system. She shares practical tools such as increasing colorful fruits and vegetables, prioritizing protein, and addressing root causes instead of masking symptoms. Her work focuses on reducing side effects, improving tolerance to treatment, and helping patients feel more in control.

Her message is clear and hopeful. Healing takes time. Small changes matter. Stay open, stay consistent, and trust that progress is possible even in the hardest moments.

Highlights:

1. How small nutrition changes can unlock big shifts in recovery
2. Why treating root causes can improve cancer treatment outcomes
3. What immuno stress means and how it affects healing
4. How to work with your medical team for whole-person care
5. Why simple habits often outperform complicated health plans

Mentioned Resources:

CanCare- www.cancare.org

Book – www.cancare.org/hopebook

Patrice’s website - https://www.patricesurley.com/

About the Guest:

Patrice Surley is an oncology nutritionist and functional health expert with more than 25 years of experience helping people heal from the inside out. Her approach is rooted in evidence-based care, but what truly sets her apart is her heart: the way she listens, partners with patients, and helps them understand what their bodies need to restore balance and strength. Patrice works alongside oncologists, functional medicine doctors, and organizations like Do Cancer, helping patients build care teams that support the whole person: body, mind, and spirit.

Love the podcast? You’ll be moved by the book. The Hope in the Face of Cancer book shares inspiring, real stories from survivors, caregivers, and healthcare heroes. Raw, uplifting, and full of heart—for anyone seeking hope and connection. Get your copy: cancare.org/hopebook.

About Our Host:

Darcie Champagne Wells is the President and CEO of CanCare, Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to providing support to the cancer community by pairing cancer patients with survivors. Since joining in November 2020 as the third President & CEO, Darcie has driven significant growth, increasing one-to-one support matches by 45% and healthcare referrals by 66%. In 2022, she initiated the Impact Acceleration Initiative to further expand support for cancer patients and caregivers. Her leadership has earned her recognition as a “Most Admired CEO” and “Woman Who Means Business” by the Houston Business Journal, and national “Fundraiser of the Year” by RAISE. Darcie holds a BS in Business Administration from Louisiana State University and an MBA from the University of Houston.

https://www.cancare.org/

https://www.facebook.com/CanCareInc

https://www.instagram.com/cancare_inc

Thanks for tuning in to Hope in the Face of Cancer!

We’re so glad you’re here. If this episode moved you, inspired you, or brought you a little bit of light, please share it with someone who might need it. Just hit the share button on this page or spread the word on social—your voice helps us reach more hearts.

🎧 Never miss an episode!

Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your favorite podcasts to get updates as soon as new episodes drop.

⭐ Help us grow with a quick review

If you’re enjoying the podcast, leaving a review on Apple Podcasts goes a long way. It helps others discover the show and reminds us that these stories matter. Take a moment to leave a review—we read every one!

📖 Enjoy the podcast? You’ll love the book.

Check out our book, Hope in the Face of Cancer—a powerful collection of real stories from survivors, caregivers, and healthcare heroes. It’s uplifting, raw, and full of heart. Get your copy at cancare.org/hopebook.

What happens when you know something is wrong with your body, but no one will listen?

In this episode of Hope in the Face of Cancer, Darcie Wells speaks with Jackie Garcia, a young adult cancer survivor whose persistence led to a life-saving diagnosis. For five years Jackie searched for answers while dealing with severe symptoms including rapid weight gain, intense pain, numbness in her legs, and overwhelming fatigue. Doctor after doctor dismissed her concerns and told her to simply lose weight or manage anxiety. At age 31, a CT scan finally revealed the truth. Jackie had a 20-pound tumor wrapped around multiple organs.

After connecting with specialists at MD Anderson Cancer Center, Jackie underwent major surgery to remove the tumor. The moment she heard the words “you have cancer,” she felt something unexpected: relief. At last, she had proof that she had been right about her body all along.

Jackie shares how that experience changed the way she sees herself and her life. She learned to trust her instincts, show herself compassion, and slow down after years of pushing herself through work and stress. She also discovered the power of community through young adult cancer support groups and survivorship connections.

Her message is simple and powerful. Trust your body. Ask for help. And remember that hope can still exist even in the hardest moments of a cancer journey.

Highlights:

· Trusting Your Body – Jackie explains how years of unexplained symptoms pushed her to keep advocating for answers even when doctors dismissed her concerns.

· The Power of One Doctor Who Listens – A visiting physician ordered the CT scan that finally revealed the tumor and changed everything.

· The Moment of Diagnosis – Jackie describes the surprising sense of relief she felt when she finally received an answer.

· Life After Cancer Changes Priorities – Her experience shifted her mindset away from career obsession toward rest, self-compassion, and meaningful relationships.

· Why Community Matters During Cancer – Support groups and survivor connections became a critical part of her emotional healing and survivorship.

Mentioned Resources:

CanCare- www.cancare.org

Book – www.cancare.org/hopebook

About the Guest:

Jackie Garcia is a 31-year-old retroperitoneal liposarcoma survivor and advocate. She spent five years searching for answers before being diagnosed with a rare cancer and a 20-pound tumor she named “Tina”. Through it all, she discovered strength in humor, healing in community, and the profound truth that her body, even in its most vulnerable state, was still worthy of love. Now living with no evidence of cancer, Jackie shares her journey with tenderness and hope, walking alongside other young adults navigating cancer and reminding them they are never alone on this uncertain road.

Article on Jackie’s Journey: tps://people.com/woman-gains-100-lbs-year-dismissed-by-docs-20-lb-tumor-exclusive-11800355

What does it look like when a man who is wired to strategize and stay in control faces a diagnosis he never expected?

Male breast cancer is rarely discussed, yet it carries the same weight of fear, uncertainty, and identity shift as any cancer journey. In this thoughtful conversation, Rene Valdry shares what it was like to hear the words stage three breast cancer and begin navigating treatment while continuing to show up for work, family, and himself.

Rene and Darcie explore the emotional reality men may struggle to express. They talk about the loss of control, the quiet anger, and the vulnerability of speaking the diagnosis out loud. They reflect on continuing to work during treatment, leaning on trusted friendships, and finding strength through support groups and shared experience.

At its heart, this conversation centers on awareness, community, and the subtle ways cancer reshapes how a person listens, leads, and lives. His story is a reminder that even when life narrows to one step at a time, hope remains steady in connection and presence

Highlights

1. How noticing a subtle physical change during an ordinary workout led to a life-altering diagnosis
2. Why male breast cancer often goes undetected and under-discussed
3. What it means to surrender control when you are wired to strategize outcomes
4. Hear how continuing to work during treatment created stability and purpose
5. Discover the emotional complexity men may experience but struggle to express
6. Learn why community, peer support, and shared experience change the cancer journey

Mentioned Resources:

CanCare - www.cancare.org

Book – www.cancare.org/hopebook

About the Guest:

Rene Valdry is a male breast cancer survivor and advocate raising awareness about a disease most people don't realize affects men. Diagnosed with Stage III breast cancer in 2023 after noticing something unusual during a workout, his journey has deepened his faith and shaped his commitment to supporting others through cancer. Throughout treatment, Rene continued working while leaning on his faith, a support group, and his community. He describes a quiet intuition he's developed: the ability to recognize another cancer survivor before a word is spoken.

Love the podcast? You’ll be moved by the book. The Hope in the Face of Cancer book shares inspiring, real stories from survivors, caregivers, and healthcare heroes. Raw, uplifting, and full of heart—for anyone seeking hope and connection. Get your copy: cancare.org/hopebook.

About Our Host:

Darcie Champagne Wells is the President and CEO of CanCare, Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to providing support to the cancer community by pairing cancer patients with survivors. Since joining in November 2020 as the third President & CEO, Darcie has driven significant growth, increasing one-to-one support matches by 45% and healthcare referrals by 66%. In 2022, she initiated the Impact Acceleration Initiative to further expand support for cancer patients and caregivers. Her leadership has earned her recognition as a “Most Admired CEO” and “Woman Who Means Business” by the Houston Business Journal, and national “Fundraiser of the Year” by RAISE. Darcie holds a BS in Business Administration from Louisiana State University and an MBA from the University of Houston.

https://www.cancare.org/

https://www.facebook.com/CanCareInc

https://www.instagram.com/cancare_inc

Thanks for tuning in to Hope in the Face of Cancer!

We’re so glad you’re here. If this episode moved you, inspired you, or brought you a little bit of light, please share it with someone who might need it. Just hit the share button on this page or spread the word on social—your voice helps us reach more hearts.

🎧 Never miss an episode!

Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your favorite podcasts to get updates as soon as new episodes drop.

⭐ Help us grow with a quick review

If you’re enjoying the podcast, leaving a review on Apple Podcasts goes a long way. It helps others discover the show and reminds us that these stories matter. Take a moment to leave a review—we read every one!

📖 Enjoy the podcast? You’ll love the book.

Check out our book, Hope in the Face of Cancer—a powerful collection of real stories from survivors, caregivers, and healthcare heroes. It’s uplifting, raw, and full of heart. Get your copy at cancare.org/hopebook.

Thanks for tuning in to Hope in the Face of Cancer!

We’re so glad you’re here. If this episode moved you, inspired you, or brought you a little bit of light, please share it with someone who might need it. Just hit the share button on this page or spread the word on social—your voice helps us reach more hearts.

🎧 Never miss an episode!

Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your favorite podcasts to get updates as soon as new episodes drop.

⭐ Help us grow with a quick review

If you’re enjoying the podcast, leaving a review on Apple Podcasts goes a long way. It helps others discover the show and reminds us that these stories matter. Take a moment to leave a review—we read every one!

📖 Enjoy the podcast? You’ll love the book.

Check out our book, Hope in the Face of Cancer—a powerful collection of real stories from survivors, caregivers, and healthcare heroes. It’s uplifting, raw, and full of heart. Get your copy at cancare.org/hopebook.

What does hope look like when a young mother hears the word cancer for the first time?

We welcome Marissa Henley, cancer survivor, author, speaker, and mother of three, to share her story of faith, fear, and long-term healing after a rare cancer diagnosis. At age 34, Marissa was diagnosed with angiosarcoma, an aggressive and uncommon cancer, just one day before her birthday. With three small children at home, her world shifted instantly as she faced treatment decisions, uncertainty, and the weight of not knowing how much time she might have.

Marissa shares the moment she discovered a lump, the shock of hearing a diagnosis she had never heard of, and the prayer that carried her through those early days. Her treatment led her to MD Anderson Cancer Center, where an unexpected clinical trial made continued chemotherapy possible. Through months of travel, separation from home, and intense care, she experienced both deep grief and unexpected peace.

Now more than fifteen years cancer free, Marissa reflects on how her journey shaped her faith, motherhood, and calling to support others. Through writing and speaking, she offers honest encouragement for survivors, caregivers, and anyone walking through suffering. Her story is a reminder that while cancer changes everything, hope can still grow in the middle of it.

Highlights:

1. How Marissa navigated a rare cancer diagnosis while parenting three very young children
2. What survivorship really feels like after treatment ends and the support fades
3. Why specific help matters more than good intentions when loving someone with cancer
4. How faith, grief, and joy can exist together during a cancer journey
5. What it means to build a life after cancer without minimizing the loss that came before

Mentioned Resources:

CanCare- www.cancare.org

Book – www.cancare.org/hopebook

Marissa Henley – www.marissahenley.com/

About the Guest:

Marissa Henley is a cancer survivor, author, speaker, and spiritual leader. Diagnosed in 2010 with a rare cancer called angiosarcoma while raising three young children, her journey deepened her faith and shaped her passion for supporting others through difficult seasons.

She is the author of Loving Your Friend Through Cancer and After Cancer: Thriving with Hope. Through her writing, speaking, and leadership in women’s ministries, Marissa offers honest reflections on grief, fear, and faith, helping women find hope and meaning beyond a cancer diagnosis.

Love the podcast? You’ll be moved by the book. The Hope in the Face of Cancer book shares inspiring, real stories from survivors, caregivers, and healthcare heroes. Raw, uplifting, and full of heart—for anyone seeking hope and connection. Get your copy: cancare.org/hopebook.

About Our Host:

Darcie Champagne Wells is the President and CEO of CanCare, Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to providing support to the cancer community by pairing cancer patients with survivors. Since joining in November 2020 as the third President & CEO, Darcie has driven significant growth, increasing one-to-one support matches by 45% and healthcare referrals by 66%. In 2022, she initiated the Impact Acceleration Initiative to further expand support for cancer patients and caregivers. Her leadership has earned her recognition as a “Most Admired CEO” and “Woman Who Means Business” by the Houston Business Journal, and national “Fundraiser of the Year” by RAISE. Darcie holds a BS in Business Administration from Louisiana State University and an MBA from the University of Houston.

https://www.cancare.org/

https://www.facebook.com/CanCareInc

https://www.instagram.com/cancare_inc

Thanks for tuning in to Hope in the Face of Cancer!

We’re so glad you’re here. If this episode moved you, inspired you, or brought you a little bit of light, please share it with someone who might need it. Just hit the share button on this page or spread the word on social—your voice helps us reach more hearts.

🎧 Never miss an episode!

Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your favorite podcasts to get updates as soon as new episodes drop.

⭐ Help us grow with a quick review

If you’re enjoying the podcast, leaving a review on Apple Podcasts goes a long way. It helps others discover the show and reminds us that these stories matter. Take a moment to leave a review—we read every one!

📖 Enjoy the podcast? You’ll love the book.

Check out our book, Hope in the Face of Cancer—a powerful collection of real stories from survivors, caregivers, and healthcare heroes. It’s uplifting, raw, and full of heart. Get your copy at cancare.org/hopebook.

What happens when the person shaping future nurses suddenly becomes the patient?

Dr. Lorraine Frazier, Dean of the Columbia University School of Nursing and a nationally respected nursing leader, joins Darcie Wells to share how a 2022 breast cancer diagnosis transformed her life and leadership. With decades of experience in nursing education, research, and evidence-based practice, Dr. Frazier brings a rare perspective shaped by both professional expertise and lived experience as a survivor.

Her journey into nursing began at age eleven while caring for a chronically ill father. That early exposure taught her how deeply families experience illness and how much compassionate communication matters. Years later, cancer placed her on the other side of care, revealing how easily patients can feel unseen during moments that are anything but routine.

Dr. Frazier reflects on the power of human connection, presence, and being truly heard. She shares how small gestures can change everything for someone facing treatment. She also explains how lifestyle changes, movement, nutrition, faith, and stress management became essential tools in her healing.

Today, she feels healthier than ever and more grounded in what matters most. Her story reminds listeners that healthcare is not only about science. It is about humanity. Hope grows when people walk alongside one another, especially in the moments that feel most uncertain.

Highlights:

• Why a patient’s “first day” is never routine, even when it feels ordinary to providers

• How evidence-based care and human connection must work together

• What breast cancer taught a nursing leader about presence and touch

• How small daily choices can support healing and long-term health

• Why sharing your story can become a lifeline for someone else

Mentioned Resources:

CanCare- www.cancare.org

Book – www.cancare.org/hopebook

About the Guest:

Dr. Lorraine Frazier is the Dean of the Columbia University School of Nursing, a nationally respected healthcare leader, and a breast cancer survivor. Since 2018, she has led one of the nation’s premier nursing programs with a vision rooted in equity and compassion.

In 2022, her work became deeply personal when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Her journey through treatment strengthened her commitment to patient-centered care and advocacy. She now brings both leadership and lived experience to her role on the CanCare Board of Directors, supporting others on a path she knows firsthand.

What happens when caregiving, grief, and love all collide at once?

Christina Napoleon is a number one bestselling author, certified grief educator, keynote speaker, and the world’s leading positive widow coach. After caring for her husband through a five-year terminal cancer journey while raising their young daughter, Christina faced widowhood, solo parenting, and profound loss with little support that truly understood spousal grief.

Her turning point came when she realized that many grief spaces focused only on loss, not on how to live after it. Through her own healing, Christina began creating the tools she wished had existed during her darkest days. From understanding anticipatory grief and widow's fog to redefining self-care for caregivers, she transformed pain into purpose.

In this moving conversation, Christina shares what caregiving truly demands, why self-care is not selfish, and how grief impacts the body, memory, and identity. She explains how small, compassionate practices can restore steadiness and how community becomes a lifeline after loss. Her story offers validation for caregivers, widows, and anyone navigating grief while still showing up for others.

This episode serves as a reminder that love is profound, healing is not a linear process, and hope can return, gently, one breath at a time.

5 Key Highlights

1. How anticipatory grief begins at diagnosis, not loss, and why that matters
2. Why caregivers often lose themselves and how to begin reclaiming strength
3. What widow's fog looks like physically, emotionally, and mentally
4. How honest language helps children process illness and loss
5. Why community and shared understanding are essential to healing

Mentioned Resources:

CanCare – www.cancare.org

Book – www.cancare.org/hopebook

Christina's Books and Website – www.thepositivewidow.com

About the Guest:

Christina Napoleon is a #1 bestselling author, keynote speaker, certified grief educator, and the world’s leading Positive Widow coach. After caring for her husband through a five-year journey with terminal cancer while raising their young daughter, Christina emerged from profound loss to create the support she could not find. Through soul-centered tools, compassionate guidance, and community, she helps widows move through grief with gentleness and rediscover hope. Her book, The Positive Widow, and her private online community offer comfort, connection, and healing to women navigating life after loss.

Christine is offering a free gift to our community:

Email [email protected] to receive:

• A Financial Reference Sheet After Loss

• Hopeful Morning & Peaceful Evening Soulmaps, gentle checklists especially helpful for caregivers