In this powerful episode, Terry Arnold sits down with Ashley Kinni as she shares her deeply personal story of becoming a first-time mom at 32—only to be diagnosed with Stage 3b Inflammatory Breast Cancer just one week later. Ashley opens up about the challenges of navigating new motherhood while undergoing chemotherapy, radiation, surgery, and ongoing post-surgical treatments. Her journey is still unfolding, but her resilience shines through: thankful for yesterday, grateful for today, and hopeful for tomorrow. 

Ashley Kinni, is a mother, wife, and pediatric speech language pathologist. A lover of cooking, cycling, and spending time with family.

Katy shared her personal journey with HER2-positive inflammatory breast cancer, including her treatment experiences and decision to pursue a chest tattoo instead of reconstruction. Through a discussion with Terry, they explored the impact of cancer on their identities and the challenges of balancing treatment with maintaining a sense of self. Both women discussed their experiences as cancer survivors and advocates, emphasizing the importance of creativity, self-compassion, and seeking support through resources like the IBC Network Foundation.

About Katy:

Katy Bowser Hutson is a writer and songwriter in Nashville, TN. She is the author of Now I Lay Me Down to Fight which chronicles her time with inflammatory breast cancer in poetry and essays. She is currently writing about play. Katy is married to Kenny and has a fourteen year old daughter and an eleven year old son. 

Dr. Nasrazadani (Dr. Ozy) shared her career journey from biochemistry to clinical oncology at MD Anderson, where she focuses on inflammatory breast cancer research and treatment. Terry and Dr. Ozy discussed the challenges of academic research, including financial struggles and the need to balance clinical obligations with research efforts. They explored the progress and future directions in IBC research, emphasizing the importance of patient involvement in studies and advocacy initiatives, including the MD Anderson Boot Walk.

Jane and Terry shared their experiences with inflammatory breast cancer, discussing their diagnoses, treatments, and the support they received during their journeys. They explored the physical and emotional challenges of cancer, including body image issues and the importance of self-advocacy and community support. The conversation also touched on organizations that provide support for breast cancer survivors and the importance of sharing both hopeful and difficult stories to help others in the IBC community.

Dr. Naoto discusses the challenges related to cancer health disparities and ongoing research into inflammatory breast cancer. The conversation covered funding uncertainties, including potential budget cuts and the changing landscape of biomedical research funding, as well as the importance of storytelling and community engagement in advocating for research. The discussion also touched on the potential of artificial intelligence in medical processes and the critical role of mixed funding sources in advancing academic research.

Julia shares her personal journey of being diagnosed with inflammatory breast cancer at age 32 while working as a travel nurse, detailing her treatment process over four years and eventual transition to patient advocacy work. She discussed her challenges returning to work after cancer treatment and her experience as a school nurse, highlighting the difficulties of balancing health and demanding professional responsibilities. Julia emphasized the importance of patient advocacy and participation in clinical trials, sharing her journey into advocacy work and her ongoing efforts to raise awareness and support others with similar experiences.

Dr. Bora Lim and Josh Newby discussing their work in inflammatory breast cancer research, the challenges of securing funding for rare diseases, and the importance of patient involvement in academic centers. They also discuss the evolution of breast cancer treatment and research, the need for seed funding for rare diseases, and the importance of collaboration and adaptability in advancing cancer research and care.

Terry Arnold and Rachel Ford discuss Rachel being diagnosed at age 37 with inflammatory breast cancer, and not getting the standard of care treatment.

John's daughter was misdiagnosed, then eventually diagnosed with inflammatory breast cancer. He has since wrote a guest bill called Marnie's Law for Legislature in Massachusetts which is now before the 194th Congress. The law states that inflammatory breast cancer shall become a part of the education component for all undergraduate nursing programs in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

Christine is an IBC sister who brought this approach of understanding the benefits of lymphatic massage to our attention. Chelsey Jean is a sports therapist, naturopathic practitioner, free thinker and creator of the Advanced Natural Health Clinic and the Chelsey Jean label.