On The Subject of Cancer: A Podcast by New England Cancer Specialists

In this episode of On the Subject of Cancer, host Jessica Fidalgo is joined by breast surgeons Dr. Jillian Smith and Dr. Paige Teller of NECS for an informative discussion in recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Through an engaging “Fact or Fiction” lightning round, they address common misconceptions about breast cancer, including screening recommendations, genetic risk factors, surgical treatment options, and the role of lifestyle choices in breast health. The conversation also offers a behind-the-scenes look at the operating room, providing insight into the work of breast surgeons and the care they deliver to patients.

Knowledge is a powerful tool in breast cancer awareness and early detection. Tune in to hear from the experts, get answers to common questions, and gain valuable insights to help you make informed decisions about your breast health.

Listen to the full episode today, and share it with someone who could benefit from this important conversation.

Host Jess Fidalgo sits down with cancer survivor and longtime advocate, Meredith Strang Burgess, who shares how her own experience with breast cancer inspired a lifelong commitment to helping others. From the Tri for a Cure to cancer research, prevention, and policy, Meredith talks about turning a personal challenge into a powerful force for change in Maine. She is a legend, you won’t want to miss this conversation.

In this episode of On the Subject of Cancer, we sit down with hematologist and medical oncologist Dr. John Winters to discuss recent breakthroughs in blood cancer care. We explore the life-changing impact of emerging treatments like CAR-T cell therapy and bispecifics, and how these innovative therapies are becoming more accessible to patients in Maine. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on the power of modern medicine and the dedicated teams bringing these breakthroughs closer to home

In this episode, Kersti LaVoie, Nuclear Medicine Technologist of New England Cancer Specialists, takes us inside the world of radiotheranostics and the targeted cancer treatments that are changing what’s possible. She shares how these innovative therapies—such as the drug Pluvicto® for men with prostate cancer—work, what the patient's treatment experience is really like, and why bringing advanced cancer care closer to home can make such a difference. It’s a lively conversation about hope, technology, and how far cancer medicine has come.

Host Jess Fidalgo sits down with Anna Mendes, Rock Row Infusion Nurse Supervisor at New England Cancer Specialists (NECS), to discuss her two decades in oncology. Anna shares personal stories—including her father’s successful lymphoma treatment at NECS, which inspired her to pursue nursing and connect with people. She also details the critical role of infusion nursing, which requires clinical skill and high-level critical thinking to manage a wide array of treatment—from chemotherapy and immunotherapy to infusions for autoimmune disorders and chronic migraines.

Anna highlights the profound changes she’s witnessed, including the shift toward personalized medicine and quick-injection treatments, and explains how her team fosters deep human connection and support for patients during their journeys. Open, honest, and at times both funny and vulnerable, Anna walks us through what life is like giving care.

This episode of On the Subject of Cancer features Lizz, a Portland-based data analyst who was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer at just 25. She shares about the role of a BRCA2 genetic mutation in her treatment, and the emotional and physical realities of navigating cancer at a young age.

Liz reflects on everything from her chemo mullet, cold capping, and chemically induced menopause to the humor and absurdity that helped her cope, including the unexpectedly motivational lyrics of Pitbull Lizz also highlights the importance of community, especially through outdoor programs for young adults with cancer, and the critical support of care teams and mental health resources.

Throughout the conversation, Liz emphasizes how cancer reshaped her perspective—letting go of small frustrations, embracing resilience, and focusing on what she can control. Her outlook is grounded in a simple but powerful mindset—she didn’t choose cancer, but she can choose how she faces it.

A healthcare worker finds out she has breast cancer at age 33. Kate’s treatment takes her through five months of chemotherapy and a bilateral mastectomy with lymph node removal, but she’s able to avoid radiation therapy thanks to a newly published research study that her radiation oncologist from New England Cancer Specialists shares with her. Kate opens up about coping with cancer through humor, the challenge of switching from caregiver to patient, and how she maintained a positive mindset while allowing herself to feel all emotions throughout her treatment.

In 2018, Trevor was diagnosed with stage 4 colorectal cancer. In this episode, a 2-parter, he talks about his journey from those surreal early days and what it means to be a survivor as a spouse, dad, and friend. Dr. Devon Evans has been there with Trevor from the beginning and gives his perspective on Trevor’s experience as well as insight into the current state of colorectal cancer treatment. Trevor also talks about his organization, Man Up To Cancer, and how it helps thousands of men and their families face cancer by sticking together. It’s a conversation that goes deep and gets to what’s real from a patient and doctor’s perspective.

In 2018, Trevor was diagnosed with stage 4 colorectal cancer. In this episode, a 2-parter, he talks about his journey from those surreal early days and what it means to be a survivor as a spouse, dad, and friend. Dr. Devon Evans has been there with Trevor from the beginning and gives his perspective on Trevor’s experience as well as insight into the current state of colorectal cancer treatment. Trevor also talks about his organization, Man Up To Cancer, and how it helps thousands of men and their families face cancer by sticking together. It’s a conversation that goes deep and gets to what’s real from a patient and doctor’s perspective.