PEP Talks with Moffitt

In this special Best of 2025 episode, we revisit some of the most meaningful stories shared on Pep Talks over the past year. From patients and caregivers to team members and advocates, these voices remind us that healing happens in many forms — through presence, compassion, listening, and small moments that leave a lasting impact.

Together, these stories reflect the heart of care, the power of human connection, and why patient experience matters — every day, in every role.

In this week’s episode, we sit down with Anne Klein, a pancreatic cancer survivor whose journey reminds us just how powerful human connection can be in the midst of medical crisis. Anne walks us through the whirlwind of her diagnosis, the long days of testing and treatment, and the unexpected moments of compassion that carried her through — from a nurse practitioner who stopped to check on her heart, to a musician who played her into peace, to a team member who made sure she didn’t ring the bell alone.

Her story is tender, honest, and full of the quiet heroism we see every day at Moffitt. It’s a reminder of how much it matters to notice people, to look them in the eye, and to bring your best self even on the hard days. Anne shows us that these small moments of care aren’t small at all — they’re life-changing.

Let’s step into her story together.

In this heartfelt episode of PEPtalks, we sit down with Chaplain Jason Filippini from Moffitt Cancer Center to explore what it truly means to bring hope, humanity, and presence into the most difficult moments of a patient’s journey. With over eight years of experience serving in Moffitt’s ICU and PCU, Jason shares powerful stories of compassion—moments where “healing” takes on a deeper meaning beyond physical cure.

From advocating for a dying young patient to receive her college diploma, to finding sacredness in something as simple as a cold Pepsi or a final walk in the sunshine, Jason reminds us that small acts of listening can change everything. Through his humility, humor, and honesty, we’re invited to see healthcare as more than a profession—it’s a ministry of presence, empathy, and intentional care.

Meet Margaret Gosira 
Since 2001, Margaret has brought heart, humor, and dedication to Moffitt Cancer Center. Her smile lights up every room, and her commitment to patients and coworkers makes her a true team hero. From training new staff to celebrating her U.S. citizenship with her Moffitt family—Margaret reminds us what it means to care. #TeamMoffitt #EmployeeSpotlight #HealthcareHeroes #WhoAreThePeopleInYourNeighborhood

In this inspiring episode of PEP Talks, we sit down with Joshua Rivera — a sarcoma survivor, Moffitt Cancer Center team member, and passionate advocate for patients everywhere. Joshua shares his incredible journey from diagnosis at age 27 to becoming a leader, mentor, and voice for change. From founding roles in the Adolescent and Young Adult (AYA) program to cycling hundreds of miles for cancer advocacy, Joshua’s story is one of resilience, purpose, and unwavering commitment to the mission of curing cancer. Tune in for a conversation filled with hope, practical wisdom, and a powerful reminder that every role in healthcare matters.

Navigating cancer is never easy—especially without the right information and support. When Kerrijo first came to Moffitt, her care team immediately recognized her deep need for knowledge. Just as importantly, they understood that her family needed to be part of the journey too.

At Moffitt, our patient-and-family-centered care ensures that both patients and their loved ones receive timely, accurate information and are invited to actively participate in care and decision-making. Because healing is stronger when no one walks the path alone.

How Kerrijo’s cancer journey began with misdiagnoses and uncertainty, and the powerful moment she received her diagnosis — alone.

The impact of compassionate communication from Dr. Saeed and the staff, and how Moffit's team made space for her family to be informed and involved. 

Kerrijo's advice to healthcare providers: empathy, small conversations, and treating people like family matter deeply.

Small acts—like asking if a caregiver has questions—can leave a lifelong impact.

Moffitt’s family-centered approach transforms the cancer experience by keeping support systems informed and involved.

Clear communication, empathy, and proactive education build trust and reduce fear.

The lasting power of including caregivers in care—because “they don’t have cancer, but they have cancer.”

Access the show transcript, notes, tools, and resources at: https://www.moffitt.org/patient-family/pep-talks/kerrijo/

Caught in a Florida downpour, two nurse navigators found more than just shelter—they found a reminder of what makes Moffitt special.
After a long day in the Neuro-oncology and GYN clinics, Ralene Simpkins and Elvy Mendez were bracing for a soggy sprint to their cars when an unexpected act of kindness changed everything. A fellow Moffitt team member—someone they didn’t even know—offered them a ride, turning a stormy evening into a heartwarming moment of connection.

🎧 Tune in to hear Ralene and Elvy share how that simple gesture reaffirmed their sense of belonging, and why Moffitt truly feels like home.

This month, we are thrilled to celebrate a truly special milestone—the 20th anniversary of the Patient and Family Advisory Council (PFAC). To mark this occasion, we are honored to welcome a very special guest, Judge Mark Pizzo, one of the original members of PFAC. Judge Pizzo will share his remarkable journey, from his distinguished career in law to his family's profound connection with Moffitt. His invaluable contributions have shaped the culture of Moffitt in countless ways through his dedicated role on PFAC. Join us as we reflect on the past two decades and look forward to the future with gratitude and hope.

In this episode, Joel passionately underscores the importance of learning about and referring patients to the available resources that can profoundly benefit them, just as they did for him. Joel's story is a powerful reminder that when we come together as a team to provide the right support tailored to each patient's specific needs, it can be life-sustaining. In Joel's own words, it was a gamechanger!

Let's listen closely and take Joel's experience to heart, ensuring that every patient receives the support they need to thrive.

In this episode you will hear from Greg Feldman, one of our pancreatic cancer survivors, and his medical provider, Physician Assistant Tiffany Valone. 

Greg and Tiffany share with us their insights into how their 9-year relationship, built on trust, care and respect, provided the support he needed to sustain him throughout his long cancer journey at Moffitt.