Survivors’ Guide to Menopause and Cancer.

Luminate Medical is a technology-led services company working to make cancer care more human-centered by addressing the often-overlooked aspects of treatment: side effects, clinic burden, and the emotional toll on patients and families. In this episode, Cathy O'Boyle discusses the company's innovative solutions and their patient-centered approach to cancer care.Cathy O'Boyle is the Head of Healthcare Services at Luminate Medical. She holds a BSc in Optometry from TU Dublin and a Master's in Clinical Vision Science from Ulster University. After working as an optometrist, Cathy joined the Bioinnovate program at the University of Galway (affiliated with Stanford's Biodesign program), where she discovered her passion for combining technology with clinical expertise. She's been with Luminate Medical for over two years.

Luminate: Get Cancer Care at Home

Luminate Medical's top priority for future innovation is infertility prevention, a significant side effect of cancer treatment affecting both men and women. The team recognizes cancer now affects younger patients and that fertility impacts psychological well-being alongside physical health.

"The most important piece is truly listening. When you can sit in front of a patient and let them give feedback and tell the story in their own words—that's the most important bit."

"We're not just focused on survival; we want to give people back their normal day-to-day things—being at home, being able to type your email, go for a 5K run, those things."

Michelle Hutton talks to me about the practice of reflexology and other complementary treatments, exploring how they can support women going through menopause and cancer recovery. Reflexology is a complementary therapy that involves applying gentle, targeted pressure to specific points on the feet, hands, or ears. It is based on the principle that these reflex points correspond to different organs, systems, and areas of the body. The practice has roots going back thousands of years and shares similarities with acupuncture and acupressure.Key Takeaways

1. Reflexology is non-invasive and safe — It can be used alongside conventional treatments like HRT or cancer therapies without conflict.
2. The benefits go beyond the physical — Much of the value lies in the dedicated time for rest, relaxation, and feeling cared for during a difficult life transition.
3. It's a popular choice among cancer patients — Many cancer support centres now offer reflexology as part of their complementary care programmes.
4. Individual experiences vary — While many women report meaningful relief from symptoms, reflexology works differently for everyone and is best viewed as one tool within a broader self-care approach.
5. Complementary therapies empower women — Exploring options like reflexology can help women feel more in control of their wellbeing during menopause and cancer recovery.

In this episode, Dr. Deirdre Connolly, a leading researcher in cancer survivorship and cognitive health, discusses chemo brain, cognitive changes after cancer treatment, and practical management strategies. Learn about assessment methods, interventions, and how survivors can regain confidence and clarity.

https://www.canwork.ie

I host this episode and it focuses on self-reflection and personal growth, guiding participants through a series of exercises aimed at exploring emotions, physical well-being, relationships, and work-life balance. The session emphasizes the importance of setting intentions for the upcoming year, encouraging individuals to let go of burdens and embrace self-compassion.

In this conversation, Karen Kruger and Cara Byrne explore the intersection of psychotherapy and hiking therapy, particularly in the context of women's health during menopause. Cara shares her journey from marketing to psychotherapy, emphasizing the importance of life experience in understanding clients. They discuss the unique benefits of hiking therapy, including the ability to express emotions and the therapeutic relationship's significance. The conversation also delves into the emotional and psychological challenges women face during menopause, including anxiety and feelings of loss of identity, and how therapy can empower individuals to regain control over their lives. In this conversation, Cara Byrne and Karen Kruger explore the emotional and psychological challenges faced by women during menopause and cancer treatment. They discuss the importance of understanding emotional communication, the impact of neurodivergence, and the significant changes in relationships during this period. The conversation emphasizes the need for self-compassion, effective communication, and building support networks. They also address body image issues and the importance of recognizing unspoken challenges that women face. Ultimately, they provide practical advice for maintaining mental health and well-being during these transitions.

You can find Cara here.

https://www.instagram.com/thehikepsych/

In this episode, Karen Kruger speaks with Kim Clack-Wheelan, a breast cancer survivor who shares her journey from diagnosis to recovery. Kim recounts her initial symptoms, the emotional impact of her diagnosis, and the challenges of undergoing treatment while caring for her young children. She discusses the importance of family support, the mental health struggles she faced, and the resilience she developed throughout her journey. Kim also reflects on the changes in her perspective on life after cancer and offers advice to others facing similar challenges.Kim works in Reputations in Dublin so if you are looking for a good wig or hair cut, you know where to go.

https://www.reputations.ie/

In this conversation, Cynthia shares her profound journey through a cancer diagnosis while navigating her aspirations for family. She discusses the emotional challenges of dealing with advanced breast cancer, the importance of exercise and therapy, and her experiences as a Brazilian national in Ireland's healthcare system. Cynthia emphasizes the need for community support and the power of sharing her story to empower others facing similar challenges.

Check her out on -

https://www.instagram.com/cynthiacravo/

In this conversation, Conor O'Leary, a psychotherapist and director of operations at Purple House, shares his personal journey and insights into the importance of psychotherapy for cancer survivors and their families. He discusses the impact of cancer on family dynamics, the role of self-awareness in healing, and the significance of communication and support systems. Conor emphasizes the need for self-compassion and the challenges faced by individuals navigating life after cancer treatment, including emotional regulation and coping mechanisms. He also highlights the importance of therapy in processing grief and loss, as well as the psychological impact of menopause for cancer survivors. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the resources available at Purple House and the importance of seeking help.

Here's Purple House Cancer Support Web page. I highly recommend them.

https://www.purplehouse.ie/

https://conoroleary.ie/

https://www.instagram.com/conorolearypsychotherapy/

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

https://uppbeat.io/t/abbynoise/momentum

License code: QPITQD8KQBOSQSQA

In this conversation, health coach and broadcaster Clare McKenna shares her journey from a traditional career in marketing to becoming a health coach. She discusses the importance of self-compassion, the concept of nourishing oneself holistically, and the benefits of breathwork. Clare emphasizes the need to listen to oneself amidst the noise of health and wellness advice and offers practical tips for better living, including celebrating small wins and finding balance in a busy life.

https://www.instagram.com/claremckennapresents/

https://www.nourishyourself.ie/

If you are looking for support on your cancer recovery and menopause experience please go to my website

www.karenkrugercoaching.com or my Instagram www.instagram.com/karen_Menopause_and_Cancer

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Clare McKenna

03:47 Career Journey and Transition to Health Coaching

06:13 The Impact of Health and Wellness on Life

09:42 The Importance of Self-Compassion

13:38 Changing the Narrative Around Self-Talk

16:06 Celebrating Small Wins in Wellness

18:44 Nourish Yourself: A Holistic Approach

20:42 The Power of Community in Health

21:43 Breathwork Training Experience

24:18 Transformative Breathwork Experiences

32:15 Listening to Yourself in Wellness

34:20 Finding Balance in a Hectic Life

39:48 Turning Pain into Power

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

https://uppbeat.io/t/abbynoise/momentum

License code: QPITQD8KQBOSQSQA

In this conversation, Olivia Carpenter, a breast cancer survivor, shares her personal journey through diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. She discusses the challenges she faced, including the emotional toll of her diagnosis and the impact on her family. Olivia also highlights the importance of community support and self-compassion during recovery.

She introduces her company, Olivia's Gift, which provides practical support to those undergoing cancer treatment, emphasizing the need for human connection and understanding in the cancer journey.

www.oliviasgift.com

https://www.instagram.com/olivias.gift/

If you are looking for support on your cancer recovery and menopause experience please go to my website

www.karenkrugercoaching.com or my Instagram www.instagram.com/karen_Menopause_and_Cancer

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Personal Background

03:33 The Breast Cancer Diagnosis Journey

06:43 Navigating Treatment and Family Dynamics

09:38 The Impact of Treatment on Health

12:35 Family Support and Coping Mechanisms

15:50 Creating Olivia's Gift: A Positive Outcome

18:37 The Purpose Behind Olivia's Gift

21:19 The Importance of Thoughtful Gifts During Cancer Treatment

25:46 Practical Comforts: Essential Items for Chemo Patients

31:08 Navigating Fatigue and Brain Fog Post-Cancer

35:20 Breaking the Silence: Menopause and Cancer Conversations

37:21 Empathy and Community: The Power of Shared Experiences

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

https://uppbeat.io/t/abbynoise/momentum

License code: QPITQD8KQBOSQSQA