PROSTATE CANCER: REAL TALK™

How can androgen deprivation therapy side effects affect life during and after prostate cancer treatment? In Part 2 of this conversation on PROSTATE CANCER: REAL TALK, El and Shay continue their discussion with Dell and Vonn about why ADT was the most difficult part of Dell’s treatment experience.

Dell shares his perspective on the physical and emotional changes associated with hormone therapy, while Vonn discusses the experience from a partner’s point of view. Together, they reflect on how treatment affected daily life, confidence, intimacy, communication, and their relationship as a couple.

By openly sharing their journey, Dell and Vonn help bring attention to the challenges that are not always discussed before prostate cancer treatment begins. This episode offers encouragement and a real-life couple’s perspective for men and partners navigating ADT, recovery, and life after treatment.

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Why would someone choose radiation therapy instead of surgery after a prostate cancer diagnosis? In this episode of PROSTATE CANCER: REAL TALK, El and Shay welcome Dell, a prostate cancer survivor, and his partner, Vonn, as they share their personal experience navigating treatment decisions following his early detection in 2024.

Dell and Vonn discuss the factors that influenced their decision to pursue radiation treatment and the importance of understanding all available options when facing a prostate cancer diagnosis. They offer an honest look at the conversations, emotions, and considerations that helped guide their journey.

Committed to breaking the stigma surrounding prostate cancer recovery and intimacy, Dell and Vonn openly share their story to help educate and encourage others. This episode is a reminder that every patient's journey is unique and that informed, individualized treatment decisions matter.

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Are you considering a penile implant after prostate cancer treatment? In Part 2 of this conversation on PROSTATE CANCER: REAL TALK, El and Shay continue their discussion with Dr. Tsambarlis, a board-certified urologist at Northwestern Medicine and a leader in the Sexual Medicine Society of North America, to explore one of the most effective treatment options for erectile dysfunction following prostate cancer treatment.

Dr. Tsambarlis explains who may be a candidate for a penile implant, how the procedure works, and what men can realistically expect before and after surgery. He addresses common concerns surrounding penile implants, including satisfaction rates, functionality, recovery, and the misconceptions that often prevent men from considering this option.

If erectile dysfunction has impacted your quality of life or intimacy after prostate cancer treatment, this episode provides valuable insight into whether a penile implant may be an appropriate solution. Men and their partners will gain a better understanding of the available options and what life can look like after treatment.

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Experiencing erectile dysfunction after prostate cancer treatment? In this episode of PROSTATE CANCER: REAL TALK, El and Shay are joined by Dr. Tsambarlis, a board-certified urologist at Northwestern Medicine and a leader in the Sexual Medicine Society of North America, to discuss one of the most personal challenges men can face after prostate cancer surgery or radiation.

Dr. Tsambarlis explains why erectile dysfunction can occur after treatment and explores the options available to help men recover sexual function and intimacy. From penile rehabilitation and erectile dysfunction treatments to advanced therapies and surgical solutions, he breaks down the tools that may be considered based on each patient’s needs and recovery.

This conversation helps men and their partners better understand erection recovery after prostatectomy, sexual health after radiation, and what steps may be available when erectile function does not return as expected. If you are navigating intimacy or erectile dysfunction after prostate cancer treatment, this episode offers clear guidance, practical insight, and a more open conversation about moving forward.

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Will your health insurance cover your cancer diagnosis and treatment? In this episode of PROSTATE CANCER: REAL TALK, El and Shay welcome back Joanna Doran, a distinguished cancer rights attorney, author, and advocate with more than 30 years of experience helping patients and families navigate the challenges that can come with a cancer diagnosis.

Joanna discusses common insurance questions facing cancer patients, including understanding coverage, accessing care, appealing insurance decisions, and knowing your rights throughout the treatment process. She shares practical information designed to help patients and caregivers make informed decisions and avoid costly surprises.

As co-founder and CEO of Triage Cancer, a national nonprofit organization providing free education and resources to individuals impacted by cancer, Joanna continues to empower patients with the knowledge they need to advocate for themselves. This episode offers valuable guidance for anyone seeking to better understand the intersection of cancer care and health insurance.

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What are the latest treatments, clinical trials, and emerging technologies shaping the future of prostate cancer care? In this episode of PROSTATE CANCER: REAL TALK, El and Shay are joined by Dr. Karine Tawagi, a specialist in the Division of Hematology and Oncology at UI Health, to discuss advances in prostate cancer treatment and research.

Dr. Tawagi shares insights into the evolving landscape of prostate cancer care, including new treatment approaches, the role of clinical trials, and how innovations such as artificial intelligence may help improve patient outcomes. She also discusses ongoing research efforts aimed at minimizing treatment side effects while delivering effective, personalized care.

With a focus on patient-centered medicine, Dr. Tawagi explains how treatment decisions are tailored to each individual's unique situation, goals, and preferences. This episode offers valuable information for patients, caregivers, and families looking to better understand the future of prostate cancer care and the opportunities available through clinical research.

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In this episode of PROSTATE CANCER: REAL TALK, El and Shay welcome back Rob Jackson to discuss his experience after undergoing a prostatectomy and the lessons he has learned during recovery. After previously sharing his journey from active surveillance to surgery, Rob returns to provide an honest update on life after treatment.

Rob discusses the physical and emotional challenges that can follow prostate cancer surgery, including adjusting to a new normal and maintaining a positive outlook throughout the recovery process. He shares practical insights about staying active, focusing on overall wellness, and navigating the changes that can come with treatment.

Now living with an undetectable PSA, Rob continues to advocate for early screening, informed decision-making, and individualized approaches to prostate cancer care. His story offers encouragement and perspective for men and families navigating life after prostate cancer treatment.

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What happens when active surveillance is no longer the right option? In this episode of PROSTATE CANCER: REAL TALK, El and Shay welcome Rob Jackson, a prostate cancer survivor who spent five years on active surveillance before ultimately deciding to undergo a prostatectomy.

Rob shares his personal experience navigating the uncertainty of monitoring his cancer over time, the factors that influenced his treatment decision, and the lessons he learned throughout the process. He discusses the importance of staying informed, working closely with your medical team, and choosing a treatment path that aligns with your individual situation and goals.

Now living with an undetectable PSA, Rob remains a strong advocate for early screening, personalized treatment decisions, and post-operative support. His story offers encouragement and practical insight for men and families facing similar choices on their prostate cancer journey.

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Considering active surveillance for prostate cancer? In this episode of PROSTATE CANCER: REAL TALK, El and Shay are joined by Dr. Adam Murphy, Associate Professor of Urology and Preventive Medicine at Northwestern Medicine, to discuss how active surveillance works and which patients may be good candidates for this approach.

Dr. Murphy explains how doctors monitor prostate cancer over time using tools such as PSA testing, imaging, biomarkers, and biopsies. He also discusses the importance of balancing treatment decisions with quality of life and why some men may safely delay treatment while remaining under close observation.

With expertise in prostate cancer biomarkers, imaging tools, and men’s health, Dr. Murphy provides valuable insight into the decision-making process surrounding active surveillance. This episode helps patients and families better understand their options and feel more informed when discussing next steps with their medical team.

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What happens emotionally when a loved one is nearing the end of life with cancer? In Part 2 of this powerful conversation on PROSTATE CANCER: REAL TALK, El and Shay continue their discussion with Doctor Janet Abrahm, professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School, about grief, hope, palliative care, hospice care, and the emotional realities families face during difficult moments.

Drawing from personal experiences involving the loss of family members to cancer, this episode explores how infections like pneumonia, flu, and COVID can severely impact patients already weakened by cancer. Doctor Abrahm also discusses the importance of communication, explaining how doctors can continue to offer hope while honestly preparing families for serious outcomes. 

The conversation also highlights the emotional toll cancer can have on physicians themselves, the role of palliative care in improving quality of life, and why early supportive care may even help patients live longer. This episode offers thoughtful insight for patients, caregivers, and families navigating some of the most difficult parts of the cancer journey.

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