Tara Takes A Stand. Let’s Talk About It!

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Episode 3 — The Diagnosis: What Happens Next?

What happens when the answers you've been waiting for finally arrive, but instead of bringing clarity, they leave you with even more questions?

In this episode of Tara Takes A Stand…Let’s Talk About It!, I continue sharing my mother's healthcare journey and what unfolded following a life-changing phone call.

I reflect on how the information was communicated, the uncertainty we faced, the decisions we had to make, and the steps we took to find answers and determine what came next.

Through my mother's experience, I discuss the importance of asking questions, obtaining medical records, seeking second opinions, and advocating for yourself or someone you love.

My hope is that sharing our journey will encourage others to recognize the importance of having a voice in their healthcare and knowing that they have the right to be heard.

Medical Disclaimer

The information shared in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified healthcare professional regarding your medical concerns.

Podcast Production Credits

Podcast: Tara Takes A Stand…Let’s Talk About It!

Host: Tara Gandy (Tara G)

Producer: Tara Gandy

Executive Producer / Quality Control: Paulette Jackson

Music Credits

Song: Smooth Jazz

Artist: HappinessInMusic

Music Source: Pixabay

License: Pixabay Content License

Music used for the introduction and outro of this episode.

Connect With Tara Takes A Stand

Website: https://taratakesastand.org

Thank you for listening to Tara Takes A Stand…Let’s Talk About It!

We have a lot to talk about!

Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode!

In Episode 2 of Tara Takes A Stand…Let’s Talk About It!, I take you back to May and June 2020, when my mother began experiencing unexplained post-menopausal bleeding during the height of the COVID-19 shutdown.

What started as a trip to urgent care quickly became weeks of phone calls, appointments, worsening symptoms, an emergency room visit, biopsies, testing, delays, grief, and the growing realization that something was seriously wrong.

I share what it was like trying to advocate for my mother while COVID restrictions kept me outside doctors’ offices and hospital rooms, how difficult it was to navigate a healthcare system when answers were not coming fast enough, and why one lesson from that experience still stays with me today:

You can’t ask questions you don’t know you need to ask.

This episode explores patient and family advocacy, the importance of asking questions, tracking symptoms and medical care, trusting your instincts, and recognizing when waiting no longer feels routine.

I also talk about the emotional reality of caregiving—trying to manage work, family obligations, grief, uncertainty, and fear while still searching for answers.

By the end of June 2020, after more than a month of appointments, tests, waiting, and unanswered questions, we were finally getting closer to an answer.

Then came July 1.

That was the day everything changed.

Next Episode: The Diagnosis: What Happens Next?

Medical Disclaimer: This episode reflects my personal experiences and is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and should not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. If you are experiencing concerning symptoms or a medical emergency, contact an appropriate healthcare provider or emergency service.

Production Credits

Host & Creator: Tara Gandy

Producer: Tara Gandy

Executive Producer & Quality Control: Paulette Jackson

Music: “Smooth Jazz” by SyncLabMusic — licensed through Pixabay

Website: TaraTakesAStand.org

Find out about upcoming topics and guests, along with other valuable resources, at TaraTakesAStand.org.

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Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode!

Welcome to the first full episode of Tara Takes A Stand…Let’s Talk About It!

In this episode, I’m talking about why these conversations matter and why so many of us wait until a crisis happens before discussing the things our families may one day need to know.

We’ll talk about wills, trusts, advance directives, healthcare decision-makers, final wishes, financial preparation, and the importance of making sure the people you trust know what you want and where important documents can be found.

These conversations can be uncomfortable, but avoiding them doesn’t make them less necessary.

My goal is not to have all the answers. It’s to help us start talking, asking questions, preparing, and advocating for ourselves and the people we love.

Just start the conversation.

Credits Host & Creator: Tara Gandy

Producer: Tara Gandy

Executive Producer & Quality Control: Paulette Jackson

Music: [Episode 1 track title] by Alex Morgan — licensed through Pixabay

Website: taratakesastand.org

Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode!

Welcome to Tara Takes A Stand…Let's Talk About It!

Some conversations aren't easy, but they're too important to avoid.

Join me, your host, Tara G, for honest conversations about healthcare advocacy, caregiving, grief, preparation, estate planning, and so much more.

Through personal experiences, meaningful discussions, and conversations with guests, we'll explore the questions we sometimes hesitate to ask—and why having these conversations matters.

🎙️ Trailer premieres: October 17, 2026

🎧 First episode releases: Thursday, October 22, 2026

🌐 https://taratakesastand.org/

Real Conversations. Bigger Awareness. Stronger Families.

Let's Talk About It!

Credits:

Host & Creator: Tara Gandy

Producer: Tara Gandy

Executive Producer & Quality Control: Paulette Jackson

Music: “Urban Hip Hop Beat” by Vaitsez — licensed through Pixabay