Life on Pause

In this compelling episode of "Life on Pause," host Jill Robertson sits down with Joe Apgar, a cancer survivor and CEO of Pelotonia, to explore the deeply personal journey of family planning after a cancer diagnosis. Joe shares his and his wife’s decision to pursue adoption following his battle with testicular cancer and the challenges they faced along the way. From discussing the emotional complexities of adoption to the importance of open communication with birth parents, Joe offers invaluable insights for anyone navigating the delicate balance of building a family after a life-altering health experience. Whether you're considering adoption or simply seeking inspiration, this episode is a powerful testament to resilience, love, and the many ways families are created.

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0:00 - Introduction to Joe Apgar

2:03 - Joe’s Journey to Fatherhood

5:13 - Choosing Adoption

9:59 - Adoption Process: Challenges and Insights

14:34 - Navigating the Adoption Paperwork

17:24 - Financial Considerations and Support

22:43 - Building Relationships Through Open Adoption

26:06 - Parenting After Cancer

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#cancerandfertility #adoptionaftercancer #adoptionresourcesforcancersurvivors

In this poignant episode of Life on Pause, hosts Corene Parrish and Jill Robertson dive into the complex and emotional journey of navigating infertility, especially in the wake of a cancer diagnosis. Corene shares her personal experiences as both a cancer survivor and someone facing infertility, reflecting on how these challenges have shaped her perspectives on parenthood and life. The conversation touches on the biological drive to become a parent, the impact of early life experiences on future parenting, and the delicate balance of nature versus nurture. They also explore how life-altering experiences like cancer can influence one's approach to raising children, whether through biological means, adoption, or simply nurturing the lives of others in meaningful ways.

Tune in to hear a candid discussion that offers comfort, insight, and hope to anyone grappling with infertility or the aftermath of a serious illness. Whether you’re a cancer survivor, dealing with infertility, or simply interested in understanding these sensitive issues, this episode provides valuable perspectives and a sense of community.

Watch now and don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this video to help others who may benefit from this conversation.

0:00 - Discussing Infertility and Cancer

1:20 - Corene's Childhood Dreams of Motherhood

2:16 - Impact of Infertility on the Desire to Parent

3:30 - Nature vs. Nurture in Parenting

4:28 - Cancer's Influence on Parenting Philosophy

6:02 - The Unpredictable Journey of Parenthood

7:27 - Reflections on Life Beyond Parenthood

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#cancerandfertility #cancerreoveryandfertility #Cancerpatientfertilityadvice

In this heartfelt episode of Life on Pause, Corene Parrish shares her personal journey of managing life after being diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma at the age of 16. Join Corene and Jill Robertson as they discuss the emotional challenges of dealing with cancer, infertility, and the struggle to maintain control in the face of overwhelming circumstances. Corene offers deep insights into how her experiences have shaped her self-perception, the importance of self-compassion, and the ways she finds strength through her support system, music, and fitness. This episode is a must-watch for anyone facing similar challenges or seeking inspiration on how to cope with life’s unexpected hurdles.

0:00 - Corene’s Cancer Diagnosis and Webinar Recap

1:11 - Impact of Cancer on Self-Identity

2:03 - Struggles with Control and Infertility

3:28 - Support Systems and Coping Mechanisms

5:04 - Body Image and Exercise Post-Diagnosis

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#fertilityaftercancertreatment #livingwithcancer #cancerandfertility

In this episode of "Life on Pause," host Jill Robertson sits down with Dr. Stephanie Estes, a fertility specialist at Penn State Health, to explore the complex intersection of cancer treatment and fertility preservation. Building on the recent webinar "Cancer and Blood Disorders: When Disease Treatment Pushes Fertility and Family Planning Decisions to the Forefront in Adolescents and Young Adults," this discussion provides valuable information for those facing infertility due to cancer or other blood disorders.

Dr. Estes explains the options available for both males and females, covering sperm and egg freezing, genetic testing, and innovative procedures like ovarian tissue preservation. Whether you are a patient, caregiver, or healthcare professional, this conversation sheds light on the importance of early fertility discussions and the options available to ensure future family planning possibilities.

Don't forget to subscribe to "Life on Pause" for more episodes that address the unique challenges faced by adolescents and young adults dealing with serious health conditions.

0:00 - Introduction and Webinar Overview

0:53 - Fertility Preservation Options Explained

4:58 - Sperm and Egg Freezing Processes

9:28 - Genetic Testing and Sickle Cell Considerations

13:35 - Post-Cancer Fertility and Insurance Coverage

18:23 - Advances in Fertility Medicine and Future Options

20:01 - Final Thoughts and Advocacy Tips

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#cancerandfertility #fertilitypreservation #optionsforfertilityaftercancer

In this inspiring episode of Life On Pause, join host Emma G as she celebrates the resilience and triumphs of young cancer survivors at the Four Diamond Graduation Party. Hear from Tucker Haas, a four-time cancer survivor turned motivational speaker; Juval Green, a high school student and aspiring college athlete; and Carmen Guzman, a recent Penn State graduate and childhood cancer survivor. Each guest shares their unique journey of overcoming medical trauma, navigating educational challenges, and finding purpose beyond their cancer diagnoses. Discover the power of resilience, the importance of community, and the strength found in self-belief as these remarkable individuals reflect on their past and envision their future.

People experience many impactful lessons throughout young adulthood. Although a cancer diagnosis can change a young adult's life trajectory, it also provides learning opportunities and influential experiences. These lessons learned throughout a young adult's cancer experience can contribute to shaping their life journey and forming the person they become. 

Life on Pause is a podcast created by and for young adults living with cancer. In this episode, our speakers discuss the lessons learned from their cancer experience and their experiences as members of the Life on Pause community. Together, they share their thoughts and memories about the lessons learned from having cancer and the lessons they continue to learn today. 

Lessons Learned from Life On Pause (0:08)

On this episode of Life On Pause, our hosts and guest speakers share their thoughts regarding lessons learned from participating in the podcast and experiencing the cancer journey as a whole. The show begins with an email written by recurring guest Taylor sharing her experience with the podcast, followed by the episode’s present speakers introducing themselves and weighing in with their thoughts about how the series has impacted them.

First lessons from a cancer diagnosis (10:08)

The cancer journey begins with a diagnosis, followed by many different experiences of cancer treatments, symptoms, and other health events. From coping with humor to expecting the unexpected, today's guest speakers share the first lessons they learned as their cancer stories began and how they carried it with them throughout their treatment and until now.

Learning, Kicking, and Screaming (16:35)

The next theme of the episode surrounds the cancer lessons our guests learned while kicking and screaming. Today's speakers share the tough lessons that made them miserable -- but were a necessary or unavoidable part of their cancer journeys. Listen as they describe experiences that taught them appreciation, humility, and patience during difficult hours.

Constant Journeys and Lessons (19:04)

Even when treatment is over, cancer can continue to teach lessons. Today's speakers share the cancer lessons that they are still learning today. Together they share some of their own stories about the lessons learned and relearned regarding themes like accepting things they cannot change, relinquishing control, and pondering the universal meaning of life.

The Social Strangeness of Cancer (26:04)

Cancer becomes a regular part of life for those who experience it. But for others, the topic of cancer can still be a touchy one. Throughout both childhood and adulthood, conversations about cancer still carry heaviness and can be challenging to handle. The episode's speakers share their thoughts on the social awkwardness surrounding the subject of cancer and how they navigate conversations and interactions where cancer is discussed. 

The Life On Pause Community (34:03)

Life On Pause started as a project to help young adults with cancer interact, share their stories, and form impactful memories. Although the podcast's speakers came together throughout different stages of their cancer journeys, the show became a helpful resource to those experiencing cancer and everything that comes with it. The show concludes with guests sharing their appreciation for the Life On Pause hosts as well as the podcast's community as a whole.

Experiencing a serious health event, like a cancer diagnosis, can change a person's priorities, decisions, and overall life path. Young adults with cancer experience different obstacles as they undergo uncontrollable life changes due to their diagnosis and treatment. So how can young adults continue to move forward with cancer influencing their decisions and life trajectory?

Life on Pause is a podcast created by and for young adults living with cancer. In this episode, our speakers discuss the forced realities and changes that come with cancer. Together, they speak on their encounters dealing with the inevitable aspects of their cancer experiences and how those factors continue to influence them today. Listen in to hear these young adults share stories about living and coping with the parts of the cancer journey that were beyond their control.

The forced realities of cancer treatment (0:08) 

When people are diagnosed with cancer, their lives can change significantly. Suddenly health becomes your top priority above all else, and you must live your life around the purpose of getting better. This episode of Life on Pause begins with a discussion of the forced realities that cancer patients must accept when in treatment. The special guests introduce themselves and share their experiences with the forced realities of cancer treatment and the things they have lost control over due to their cancer diagnosis.

Advice vs. Choice (9:42)

Young adulthood can be an exciting time for people to venture out into the world and take the reins of life into their own hands. But, of course, this can mean choosing not to listen to or follow guidance from authority figures. Within this segment of the show, our speakers share their examples and insight on how this applies to their lives as young adults with cancer. 

Privacy and treatment (14:47)

Cancer can bring many changes to people's physical appearance that are hard to ignore. While some friends and relatives may wish to ask about these health changes out of concern, it can feel like a loss of privacy for cancer treatment patients. Handling unsolicited comments and questions about personal health matters can be uncomfortable, but for our guest speakers, it is just another part of life brought on by their diagnosis. Listen as they share their thoughts on how the loss of privacy is a new forced feature of their lives throughout their cancer journey.

Feeling obligated to share your story (24:57)

Experiencing a significant health event can attract attention and curiosity from others. But with health being such a personal subject, questions and discussions surrounding a cancer diagnosis can feel uncomfortable and disrespectful to the patient's privacy. Guest speakers discuss their experiences with the societal pressures of feeling obligated to be open about their experiences. They also discuss how they navigate tough subjects and honesty when speaking about their health to others and the responsibility of "putting on a brave face" for other people's comfort.

How Cancer Experience Shapes Decisions (32:43)

When experiencing cancer treatments, patients dedicate their focus and actions toward their health recovery. But after the treatments end, how do patients move forward when their health is no longer in critical condition? When the fear for their health no longer dictates their decisions, young adults with cancer must relearn how to function and make choices for their personal life progression. Our speakers discuss how the choices that they made during and after treatment were influenced by their cancer diagnosis. They also discuss how their cancer experience has shaped the choices that they make now and how they push themselves to make choices and pursue the right path for their well-being.

Working With the Nervous System (42:11)

A person's nervous system functions to support and protect them. However, the nervous systems of young adults with cancer may react differently as a result of their treatments. And while these people may recognize that they have choices, their cancer experience still informs their decisions. As a result, they may feel uncomfortable taking even smaller risks and approach situations from a place of caution. Today's speakers discuss how their cancer experience has influenced their life choices and stepping outside their comfort zones.

Life After Treatment (47:41)

Once cancer treatment ends, the cancer journey continues. For people who have experienced it, cancer becomes an ongoing consideration even after their recovery. Their health thought processes, and overall lives have been flavored by your cancer experience. The podcast guests discuss their views on how cancer "never ends" and what this continuation means concerning how they will continue to live their lives moving forward. Finally, they discuss how their cancer has impacted their ability to relate to others and feel understood.

Everyone has fears that develop and change throughout their life. However, significant health events like a cancer diagnosis can simultaneously alter many aspects of life as they reveal a new set of potential outcomes - and concerns. So how do young people impacted by cancer cope with the fears brought on by their diagnosis?

Life on Pause is a podcast created by and for young adults living with cancer. In this episode, our speakers explore the fears experienced by young adults with cancer. Together, they cover how their fears have transformed due to their cancer and reflect on the differences in their concerns before, during, and after treatment. Listen as these young adults open up about the feelings of struggle and triumph brought on by their health journeys and the emotional experience of living with cancer.

How Do We Rationalize Our Fears? (00:30)

This episode begins with host Corrine discussing fear and its purpose as a defense mechanism to protect us from danger. Our speakers share how they rationalize their fears as young adults with cancer. Listen as speakers introduce themselves and share their personal stories regarding the concern they have experienced throughout their diagnosis.

Fears Then and Now (4:15)

The time before and after experiencing a cancer diagnosis can feel like two separate lives, as cancer changes people's lives to reveal new circumstances, anxieties, and fears. Corrine and the guest speakers discuss their most significant concerns before their diagnoses and what they think about these fears as they look back on them today.

Facing Fears After Diagnosis (11:13)

A cancer diagnosis can conjure fears of the unknown as new patients consider the long and risky health journeys ahead. Our podcast speakers discuss the thoughts that came to mind when they first received their cancer diagnosis and how they coped with the fears surrounding this significant life event.

Fears Moving Forward (21:08)

After discussing the fears that our speakers experienced before and during their cancer diagnosis, they now look toward the future. Corrine and the speakers discuss what they fear now moving forward, including future failure, how cancer has impacted their lives, cancer relapses, and other concerns.

Courage Through Cancer (36:35)

Susan David said, “Courage is not the absence of fear, but fear walking.” To be able to progress, people must be brave and continue moving forward regardless of their fears. Our podcast guests discuss how their fear has given them courage and how they persist through their fears to continue living their lives one day at a time.

Those impacted by cancer gain strength and resiliency from their experiences, which carry them from year to year and remain present throughout their lifetimes. As we enter a new year, reflecting on the past can help us recognize and appreciate the lessons that will stick with us and guide us in the future.

Life on Pause is a podcast created by and for young adults living with cancer. In this end-of-the-year podcast episode, our speakers welcome 2023 by taking a look back on 2023. Part of knowing where you are going is knowing where you are coming from, so listen as our guest speakers share the impactful and transformative experiences from their past years. Thank you for tuning into our last podcast of the year, and we look forward to you joining us as we release new episodes in 2023.

Introductions and Reflections (0:26)

Our host Corene kicks off this episode by asking the guest speakers about the most significant lesson they learned in 2022. Guests Taylor, Kasara, Corene, Tony, and Hailey each reflect on their experiences over the previous year regarding their health, growing up, life with cancer, and the wisdom they gained along the way.

A Message in Hindsight (5:07)

While the new year brings promises of change and transformation, for young adults with cancer, their health journey will always remain a present theme throughout their lives. Corene asks guests to describe the one thing they would choose to tell themselves at the beginning of their cancer experiences. From words of reassurance to advice and encouragement, our speakers discuss the messages they would give their past selves, knowing all they know now.

2022 Highs and Lows (8:59)

Throughout the course of a year, everyone has their hits and misses. This is a part of life, and the positive and negative experiences we face help us grow along the way. Our guest speakers discuss their own highs and lows from 2022, sharing transformative stories surrounding cancer journeys, moments of realization, and personal life experiences.

Resolutions and Goals for 2023 (16:16)

Looking toward the future can allow us to form positive resolutions and changes to strive for. Our guests discuss what they expect of their upcoming years and the things they hope to improve on and accomplish going forward. Additionally, they discuss life milestones, the personal pressures and fears that come with aging, and the misconceptions surrounding entering your thirties.

Not Forgotten (21:26)

For young adults with cancer, the ever-present aspect of their diagnosis eventually becomes a normalized part of their life. Corene discusses how cancer has become such a consistent theme in her life that she sometimes forgets she has it, whereas other times, it is at the forefront of her mind. She and the guest speakers discuss the experiences and lessons they will never forget regarding their cancer journeys.

Lifelong Mantras (36:09)

Regardless of how someone is impacted by cancer or how they live their lives, everyone has their own guiding principles that help them navigate through life. To wrap up the episode, Corene and the guests share their personal mantras that they say year after year. Our speakers provide their impactful sayings and beliefs that have been influential within their lives.

As a part of life, people often face new situations that take them out of their comfort zones. A unique experience like traveling to a foreign country can be exciting, but unfamiliar circumstances can also cause significant unease, especially when they are due to health complications. And while a first-time cancer diagnosis may feel like uncharted territory, experiencing cancer treatments in an unfamiliar country can bring on even more challenges. 

Life on Pause is a podcast created by and for young adults living with cancer. In this episode, guest speaker Cecilia Kanga shares her experience receiving treatment for her cancer diagnosis in the United States and how she maintains positivity far away from her home in Zambia. As a traveler with a love of new experiences, Cecilia explains how her mindset and background have affected how she is experiencing her cancer journey in an unfamiliar land.

Introducing Cecilia (0:30)

The podcast begins with host Casey introducing the episode’s special guest speaker, Cecilia Kanga, who shares a bit of information about her background, her love of traveling, and her diagnosis. Cecilia is originally from Zambia, and since receiving her cancer diagnosis last year, she has experienced various challenges with her health and undergoing treatments in a new environment.

The Challenge of Change (3:52)

Battling cancer is already extremely challenging. But for Cecilia, being in a different country and experiencing her treatment in an entirely new environment added a new level of difficulty to her cancer journey. Cecilia describes the challenges of her treatment situation, like communication, and how that transpired with her care professionals.

The Hardest Challenges (5:54)

Cecilia cites that the most difficult part about her cancer journey was accepting her health condition. Being in a foreign land away from her loved ones and lacking control and knowledge about her diagnosis made it hard for her to wrap her mind around it. Her cancer also caused physical setbacks, as she experienced bodily changes and fatigue from chemo. Cecilia explains how she worked through these issues by gaining knowledge and receiving help from her community.

Seeking Treatment in a Faraway Land (11:14)

Cecilia has been receiving treatment for her cancer within the United States which, to her, is a foreign territory. While learning the terms and details behind a cancer diagnosis can feel like learning a new language altogether, Cecilia had to experience life as a patient far from her home. Being an avid traveler, she explains how she received treatment in the U.S. and how her family came together to support her throughout her health battle.

Hope and Motivation Through Cancer (18:39)

Cancer comes with challenges, both physical and mental. For Cecilia, hope and faith helped motivate and inspire her throughout her treatment and health difficulties. She describes how connections with other patients within the cancer community and her religion enabled her to gain perspective and feel supported throughout the physical changes and mental obstacles.

Comfort Foods (23:14)

Medication, treatments, and physical changes can all affect how a cancer patient feels. But seeking out comfort foods and other small pleasures can help patients experience positivity throughout their days in treatment. Cecilia describes the comfort foods she enjoys from home and how she has been adjusting to their absence during her time in America.

Losing Count (26:27)

Going through treatment for cancer can mean spending some time admitted to hospitals and other times doing outpatient treatments. Cecilia tells listeners how her chemotherapy programs and treatment plans change based on how she feels. She explains the difficulties of scheduling and rescheduling appointments and experiencing a constantly changing schedule.

Fear and Hope (27:43)

Health complications like cancer force patients to face the unknown, which can cause significant discomfort and fear. For Cecilia, her fear of death has caused her to consider the dreams she holds for her future and the aspirations that she still wishes to experience. Rather than avoiding the thought of her mortality, Cecilia explains that holding on to hope and faith has enabled her to maintain a semblance of positivity throughout her darkest times.

Finding Meaning in Challenges (31:09)

The podcast concludes with host Shelly asking Cecilia about what advice she would give to another young person experiencing a cancer diagnosis and the fears and uncertainties that come with it. Cecilia explains how taking life one day at a time, accepting their diagnosis, and seeking out a personal meaning toward the challenges they face can help people feel more in control of their health situation.