In this moving episode of the OlympusTalks podcast, host Tom Salemi of DeviceTalks explores the topic of pancreatic cancer. The episode features Rich Burde, Director of Marketing in EUS Solutions at Olympus, alongside special guests, pancreatic cancer survivor, Rob Schasteen and his daughter Brooke Schasteen-Smith. The conversation expands on Olympus’ focus on pancreatic cancer, its prevalence and Olympus’ mission to support physicians in the critical role of diagnosis and treatment.  

Rob shares his personal battle with stage four pancreatic cancer, recounting his initial diagnosis and the invaluable support from his family, particularly Brooke, who relocated to Pennsylvania to care for him. Brooke, actively involved with the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN), highlights the organization's pivotal role in offering vital resources, case management, and education for families affected by pancreatic cancer. 

Tune in for more on the importance of seeking multiple medical opinions, maintaining hope and a positive attitude, and the significant support provided by PanCAN. Learn more about Olympus’ partnership with PanCAN and the resources and support available for families in their fight against pancreatic cancer.  

For more episodes by OlympusTalks, please visit olympusamerica.com/podcasts. 

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES: 

In this debut episode of OlympusTalks, Host Tom Salemi welcomes Olympus Corporation of the Americas’ Vice President of Endoscopy Marketing Kurt Cannon, and colorectal cancer survivor and advocate Brooks Bell for a candid discussion on the importance of early screening. They explore Olympus’ role in advancing endoscopic technology and how it contributes to early detection and prevention of colon cancer. 

Bell shares her personal experience with early-onset colorectal cancer, highlighting the urgent need to shift cultural perceptions around colonoscopies. She discusses her work through Worldclass Clothing, a nonprofit aimed at removing barriers to screening. Cannon elaborates on Olympus' commitment to improving adenoma detection rates and sheds light on how their latest innovation, the EVIS X1™ endoscopy system, is designed to support this mission.

Colorectal cancer is rising in younger adults—but early screening can make all the difference. Tune in to hear how innovation, advocacy, and awareness are coming together to tackle colorectal cancer.  

For more episodes by OlympusTalks, please visit olympusamerica.com/podcasts. 

*Brooks Bell is a paid endorser of Olympus Corporation, its subsidiaries, and/or its affiliates.

**The content of this podcast was paid for by Olympus.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES: 

• To learn more about the EVIS X1™ Endoscopy System, visit https://medical.olympusamerica.com/products/evis-x1.

• For resources on colorectal cancer screening and to read patient stories, visit https://www.colonoscopytoday.com/.  

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Thank you for listening to the OlympusTalks podcast!

Welcome to OlympusTalks, the podcast that brings you to the forefront of medical technologies as we explore advancements and innovations in gastrointestinal (GI). This 8-episode series features talks with healthcare professionals, patients, and Olympus subject matter experts. Listen as they dive into various aspects of GI health focused on improving patient outcomes through best practices. Stay tuned for conversations designed to educate, inspire, and inform.