Test Those Breasts ™️

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What does it take to rise above the challenges of a HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer diagnosis? Join us as I sit down with Elissa Kalver , a phenomenal survivor who was unexpectedly diagnosed just before her daughter's first birthday. From a life brimming with sports, adventures, and a thriving career in financial services and gym ownership, Elissa takes us through her journey of shock and resilience.
Navigating the turbulent waters of cancer while maintaining a strong family dynamic can be overwhelming. Elissa opens up about the crucial role of emotional boundaries, teamwork, and the importance of explaining cancer to young children through resources like Cancer Hates Kisses Book and The DOT Method.  We delve into the inception of her nonprofit, "We Got This" , which was born out of the need for better support systems for cancer patients. Modeled after baby and wedding registries, this innovative platform makes it easier for patients to ask for help. Elissa's story underscores the entrepreneurial spirit and community-driven support that are vital in filling the gaps in cancer care.

Elissa's journey doesn't stop at personal survival; it extends into building a robust support network through her nonprofit initiative.  The We Got This platform now offers registries, recommendations, and resources to aid patients and caregivers. Her message is clear: it's crucial to maintain one's identity & dignity while living with cancer & to balance the challenging moments with vibrant lives.
We Got This on Facebook

We Got This on Instagram

We Got This on TikTok

We Got This on YouTube

Are you loving the Test Those Breasts! Podcast? You can show your support by donating to the Test Those Breasts Nonprofit @ https://testthosebreasts.org/donate/

Where to find Jamie:
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Jamie Vaughn in the News!

Thanks for listening!
I would appreciate your rating and review where you listen to podcasts!

I am not a doctor and not all information in this podcast comes from qualified healthcare providers, therefore may not constitute medical advice. For personalized medical advice, you should reach out to one of the qualified healthcare providers interviewed on this podcast and/or seek medical advice from your own providers .

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Trust your instincts and take charge of your health journey with insights from our inspiring guest, Meg Cadoux. A breast cancer survivor and co-founder of the Anti Cancer Lifestyle Program, Meg's story begins with a misdiagnosed stage 3B estrogen-positive breast cancer in 2001. Despite facing two recurrences in 2008 and 2018, Meg shares how her perseverance and the power of immunotherapy led her to remission, emphasizing the critical importance of second opinions and staying informed about one's health.

In our conversation, Meg discusses how frustration with the lack of actionable advice from her oncologist led her to make profound lifestyle changes inspired by Dr. Servan-Schreiber's book, "Anti-Cancer: A New Way of Life." Collaborating with her local cancer center, she created a comprehensive course for cancer survivors that focuses on diet, fitness, mindset, and creating a less toxic home environment. Initially available in person, the program transitioned online due to COVID-19, broadening its reach to participants from 122 countries, including Spanish translations, and ensuring evidence-based support through partnerships with healthcare providers.

Finally, we explore the lifelong commitment to maintaining a healthy lifestyle post-cancer diagnosis. Meg highlights the challenges of integrating consistent exercise into daily routines and the necessity of resistance training for bone health. She introduces Learning Circles, a supportive and interactive program for cancer survivors, facilitated by health coaches and experts. Tune in to discover valuable insights and resources that can aid your personal journey.

Contact Meg:
[email protected]

Anti-Cancer Lifestyle on LinkedIn
Anti-Cancer Lifestyle on Instagram
Anti-Cancer Lifestyle on Facebook
Anti Cancer Lifestyle Program
Anticancer Allies 

Are you loving the Test Those Breasts! Podcast? You can show your support by donating to the Test Those Breasts Nonprofit @ https://testthosebreasts.org/donate/

Where to find Jamie:
Instagram LinkedIn TikTok Test Those Breasts Facebook Group LinkTree
Jamie Vaughn in the News!

Thanks for listening!
I would appreciate your rating and review where you listen to podcasts!

I am not a doctor and not all information in this podcast comes from qualified healthcare providers, therefore may not constitute medical advice. For personalized medical advice, you should reach out to one of the qualified healthcare providers interviewed on this podcast and/or seek medical advice from your own providers .

Send us a text

Ever thought a simple health scare could redefine your life's priorities? Meet Travis Brady, our resilient guest who was misdiagnosed with appendicitis, but soon found herself facing stage 3A ER/PR positive breast cancer. Her journey from self-neglect to becoming her own health advocate is not just inspiring; it's a wake-up call for all of us to prioritize self-care. Travis's story underscores the critical lesson of putting on your own oxygen mask first—a concept she embodies through her fight and survival.

Join us as Travis recounts the tumultuous path from her initial misdiagnosis to the discovery of a rare ovarian vein thrombosis, and ultimately, a severe breast cancer revelation. Amidst the chaos of relocating her family across the country, her world turned upside-down. Yet, through surgeries and grueling chemotherapy sessions, her determination to seek second opinions and make informed health decisions showcases the profound impact of being your own advocate in the medical maze.

In the latter part of our conversation, Travis introduces her book, which will be released on October 8, 2024, "Make Room for Healing: 40 Tips from a Breast Cancer Survivor," a heartfelt compilation of practical advice and personal wisdom. Her mission? To ease the journey for others facing similar battles. We also touch on critical topics of breast cancer prevention and awareness, emphasizing informed decision-making about hormone treatments and the invaluable support of the breast cancer community. Travis's journey is a powerful testament to the strength and resilience of survivors, offering hope and guidance to anyone navigating their health challenges.

TravisBrady.com 

Are you loving the Test Those Breasts! Podcast? You can show your support by donating to the Test Those Breasts Nonprofit @ https://testthosebreasts.org/donate/

Where to find Jamie:
Instagram LinkedIn TikTok Test Those Breasts Facebook Group LinkTree
Jamie Vaughn in the News!

Thanks for listening!
I would appreciate your rating and review where you listen to podcasts!

I am not a doctor and not all information in this podcast comes from qualified healthcare providers, therefore may not constitute medical advice. For personalized medical advice, you should reach out to one of the qualified healthcare providers interviewed on this podcast and/or seek medical advice from your own providers .

Send us a text

Imagine receiving a life-altering diagnosis of breast cancer at the age of 37. Gail Menasco, owner of "Menasco Consulting" and a fierce advocate for healthcare reform and health equity, shares her compelling journey from being an adventurous mom and business owner to navigating the shockwaves of a cancer diagnosis. Through her personal story, Gail underscores the critical importance of regular self-checks and the whirlwind that follows the initial discovery of a lump. She opens up about her mission to support others through the maze of information, insurance hurdles, and treatment decisions, offering invaluable insights for anyone facing similar challenges.

We delve into the intricate case of a 38-year-old woman diagnosed with high-grade DCIS, shedding light on the unique difficulties posed by being ER/PR negative. This narrative takes us through the emotional and logistical hurdles of deciding between mastectomy and radiation, and the painstaking search for a skilled surgeon for DIEP flap reconstruction. Her story is a testament to resilience and determination, highlighting the frustrating experiences with local surgeons and the eventual decision to seek out-of-state options. This episode provides a raw look at the arduous path of dealing with a rare and aggressive form of DCIS.

Gail's journey through the complexities of health insurance and employment changes reveals her strategic thinking and fierce advocacy.

Contact Gail:
Menasco Consulting Website 

Are you loving the Test Those Breasts! Podcast? You can show your support by donating to the Test Those Breasts Nonprofit @ https://testthosebreasts.org/donate/

Where to find Jamie:
Instagram LinkedIn TikTok Test Those Breasts Facebook Group LinkTree
Jamie Vaughn in the News!

Thanks for listening!
I would appreciate your rating and review where you listen to podcasts!

I am not a doctor and not all information in this podcast comes from qualified healthcare providers, therefore may not constitute medical advice. For personalized medical advice, you should reach out to one of the qualified healthcare providers interviewed on this podcast and/or seek medical advice from your own providers .

Send us a text

Join us as we welcome Dr. Halaharvi , a fellowship-trained, board-certified breast surgeon who faced her own breast cancer journey just 8 months after completing her fellowship. Her unique perspective of experiencing both sides of the diagnosis has profoundly influenced her approach to patient care. She reflects on her immigrant upbringing, the strong work ethic instilled by her parents, and how her personal battle with cancer reshaped her mission and dedication to the breast cancer community.

Dr. Halaharvi shares her story, emphasizing the importance of listening to one’s body and the critical role of early detection. Her journey in selecting a surgeon underscores the value of compassionate care, effective communication, and second opinions. As a surgeon-turned-patient, she delves into how her personal experience has deepened her empathy and commitment to providing holistic, patient-centered care and maintaining strong patient-doctor relationships.

Discover the latest in breast reconstruction options, tailored for women with high BMIs, smokers, diabetics, and others who might not be suited for traditional methods. Dr. Halaharvi discusses an innovative, one-stage surgery, called the "Goldilocks" method, designed to offer equitable care, especially for Medicaid patients.

Breast Doctor on TikTok
Dr. Halaharvi
The Breast Cancer Podcast on Instagram
Dr. Halaharvi's Website
Dr. Halaharvi on YouTube
Dr. Deepa Halaharvi on Facebook

Dr. Halaharvi's Favorite Resources:
BreastCancer.org
National Comprehensive Cancer Network Guidelines
Breast 360 - Engage/Educate/Empower 

Are you loving the Test Those Breasts! Podcast? You can show your support by donating to the Test Those Breasts Nonprofit @ https://testthosebreasts.org/donate/

Where to find Jamie:
Instagram LinkedIn TikTok Test Those Breasts Facebook Group LinkTree
Jamie Vaughn in the News!

Thanks for listening!
I would appreciate your rating and review where you listen to podcasts!

I am not a doctor and not all information in this podcast comes from qualified healthcare providers, therefore may not constitute medical advice. For personalized medical advice, you should reach out to one of the qualified healthcare providers interviewed on this podcast and/or seek medical advice from your own providers .

Send us a text

How did a breast cancer diagnosis at age 26 transform Brynn Barale from a driven workaholic into a beacon of holistic health and empowerment? Join us as we chat with Brynn, a registered nurse and holistic health coach, who discovered her cancer through a simple itchy lump. Her story is both inspiring and educational, offering insights into her Life Beyond Program program, a specialized blueprint designed to help breast cancer survivors achieve sustainable weight loss and holistic transformation.

Coach Brynn passionately shares the indispensable role of holistic care during and after cancer treatment. We'll unpack the profound impacts of diet, mental health, and physical activity on overall well-being, and highlight the often-overlooked emotional toll that cancer brings. Listen to personal stories of resilience, the dynamics of caregiving within relationships, and the critical need for continued support post-treatment to prevent depression. This episode is a heartfelt exploration of how a strong support system and a comprehensive approach to health can make all the difference.

Empowerment is a recurring theme as we discuss how Bryn helps survivors lose weight without restrictive dieting, enhancing their strength and confidence. We challenge the misconception that only unhealthy lifestyles lead to cancer and emphasize the importance of personal advocacy in breast health. Brynn's story of persistence and early detection serves as a powerful reminder to listen to our bodies. Tune in to discover how nourishing your body with the right foods, being your own health advocate, and having a supportive healthcare team can lead to a fulfilling life post-cancer.

Are you loving the Test Those Breasts! Podcast? You can show your support by donating to the Test Those Breasts Nonprofit @ https://testthosebreasts.org/donate/

Where to find Jamie:
Instagram LinkedIn TikTok Test Those Breasts Facebook Group LinkTree
Jamie Vaughn in the News!

Thanks for listening!
I would appreciate your rating and review where you listen to podcasts!

I am not a doctor and not all information in this podcast comes from qualified healthcare providers, therefore may not constitute medical advice. For personalized medical advice, you should reach out to one of the qualified healthcare providers interviewed on this podcast and/or seek medical advice from your own providers .

Send us a text

Ever wondered how a high-stress lifestyle could transform into a health-conscious journey after a life-changing diagnosis? Meet Michelle and Kendall Sandlin, the inspiring mother-daughter duo who share their powerful story on this episode of Test Those Breasts. Michelle, a breast cancer survivor & award-winning writer, opens up about her shift from the chaotic world of freelance writing to prioritizing her health after her diagnosis and the loss of her mother. Her daughter Kendall takes us through her courageous, proactive approach to managing her health by undergoing a double mastectomy and full hysterectomy upon discovering she carried the BRCA1 gene mutation.

The brutal realities of chemotherapy are laid bare as we navigate through its demanding cycles and debilitating side effects. We discuss strategies to manage the fatigue and nausea, and the importance of rebranding those grueling "red devil" treatments into "red warriors" to change patients' mindsets. Get practical tips for preparing for treatment, and understand that while chemotherapy itself might be temporary, its aftereffects are long-lasting. This conversation is designed to support and guide new patients through the overwhelming preparatory stages of their treatment journey.

Transitioning to MD Anderson for cancer care comes with its own set of emotional and logistical challenges, which Kendall courageously recounts, emphasizing the importance of self-advocacy. We delve into her experience of navigating insurance hurdles to receive preventative care and surgery, and the supportive role MD Anderson played. Hear about the vital role of being a "previvor" and the shared experiences that forge strong connections among those in similar situations. Michelle and Kendall's heartfelt advice underscores the significance of maintaining a positive outlook, being vigilant about health matters, and making impactful lifestyle choices. Their journey is a beacon of hope and practical wisdom for anyone facing a cancer diagnosis. Michelle's bestselling book "Cancer Don't Care" on Amazon is one you won't want to pass up!

Contact Michelle:
Michelle on Facebook

Michelle on Instagram

Michelle on Instagram

Are you loving the Test Those Breasts! Podcast? You can show your support by donating to the Test Those Breasts Nonprofit @ https://testthosebreasts.org/donate/

Where to find Jamie:
Instagram LinkedIn TikTok Test Those Breasts Facebook Group LinkTree
Jamie Vaughn in the News!

Thanks for listening!
I would appreciate your rating and review where you listen to podcasts!

I am not a doctor and not all information in this podcast comes from qualified healthcare providers, therefore may not constitute medical advice. For personalized medical advice, you should reach out to one of the qualified healthcare providers interviewed on this podcast and/or seek medical advice from your own providers .

Send us a text

Have you ever felt completely lost and overwhelmed by a sudden medical diagnosis? Join us as we sit down with Jennifer Toth Burgoyne , a mother of four and breast cancer survivor, who shares her deeply personal journey from diagnosis to reconstruction surgery. Jennifer recounts how the "Test Those Breasts" podcast provided her with the crucial information and support needed to make informed decisions about her health. We also explore Jennifer's life before cancer, her love for an active lifestyle in Hoboken, New Jersey, and the emotional challenges she faced following her diagnosis. Her story highlights the monumental role that community and accurate information play during such tough times.

Additionally, we dive into the world of breast reconstruction options, featuring personal experiences with different procedures such as the PAP flap and the DIEP flap technique. We discuss the necessity of skilled microsurgeons, the support provided by hospital staff, and the emotional challenges that accompany reconstruction. We also touch on societal stigmas and the impact of well-meaning, yet sometimes hurtful comments. By emphasizing the significance of early detection and education, especially for younger women, this episode serves as a beacon of strength and resilience for breast cancer survivors, offering practical advice and support for those navigating their own journeys.

Contact Jennifer:
[email protected]

Jennifer Toth Burgoyne on Instagram 

Jennifer Toth Burgoyne on Facebook 

Are you loving the Test Those Breasts! Podcast? You can show your support by donating to the Test Those Breasts Nonprofit @ https://testthosebreasts.org/donate/

Where to find Jamie:
Instagram LinkedIn TikTok Test Those Breasts Facebook Group LinkTree
Jamie Vaughn in the News!

Thanks for listening!
I would appreciate your rating and review where you listen to podcasts!

I am not a doctor and not all information in this podcast comes from qualified healthcare providers, therefore may not constitute medical advice. For personalized medical advice, you should reach out to one of the qualified healthcare providers interviewed on this podcast and/or seek medical advice from your own providers .

Send us a text

What do you do when your body rejects something meant to enhance it? On this episode of "Test Those Breasts," we sit down with Stephanie Grimaldi-Lang, a breast cancer survivor who faced an unexpected battle after discovering her breast implants were causing her illness. From her joyous family life filled with boating and off-road adventures, Stephanie opens up about the grueling journey from her breast implant illness diagnosis to finding  David Light MD , a renowned breast surgeon, and making the life-altering decision to remove her implants. Stephanie’s candid recount of her research and resilience offers a raw look into the complexities of breast health.

Stephanie's story doesn't end there. Faced with the challenge of a DCIS diagnosis in 2020, she had to navigate tough choices between radiation therapy and a double mastectomy. Through her experience with DIEP Flap reconstruction, we delve into the importance of self-advocacy and obtaining multiple medical opinions. This episode is not just for those navigating breast cancer; it's a testament to early detection, medical guidance, and the power of community support.
Stephanie on Instagram
Breast Implant Illness Info on Instagram

Dr. David Light on Test Those Breasts

Steph's Story on Learn Look Locate 

Are you loving the Test Those Breasts! Podcast? You can show your support by donating to the Test Those Breasts Nonprofit @ https://testthosebreasts.org/donate/

Where to find Jamie:
Instagram LinkedIn TikTok Test Those Breasts Facebook Group LinkTree
Jamie Vaughn in the News!

Thanks for listening!
I would appreciate your rating and review where you listen to podcasts!

I am not a doctor and not all information in this podcast comes from qualified healthcare providers, therefore may not constitute medical advice. For personalized medical advice, you should reach out to one of the qualified healthcare providers interviewed on this podcast and/or seek medical advice from your own providers .

Send us a text

How did a kindergarten teacher and a nurse not only survive breast cancer but also find a way to help others facing the same journey? Kathryn Tortorici and Nancy Bynon join us to share their extraordinary story of friendship and resilience. Their bond, which began over a Junior League cookbook project, became a vital support system as they navigated their diagnoses and treatments. Together, they celebrate 5 years of being disease-free, showcasing the profound impact of companionship and faith during life's toughest battles.

Throughout this episode, Kathryn and Nancy discuss the deep emotional support they offered each other, leaning on their shared faith and the broader sisterhood of women battling cancer. They highlight their collaborative book, "Two By Two: Conversations Between Friends Navigating Breast Cancer ," where they weave personal anecdotes, practical advice, and faith-based reflections to create a comforting resource for others. Kathryn’s creativity and Nancy’s technical expertise blend seamlessly to present complex topics in an accessible way, showing the significant role of community and mutual support.

Listeners will hear about the individuality of cancer journeys and the importance of respecting everyone's unique way of coping. Kathryn and Nancy share heartfelt stories and practical tips from their book, emphasizing the importance of relationships, routine mammograms, and being one's own health advocate. Their conversation is a powerful reminder of the strength found in the community and the unexpected silver linings that emerge from life's most challenging experiences.

Are you loving the Test Those Breasts! Podcast? You can show your support by donating to the Test Those Breasts Nonprofit @ https://testthosebreasts.org/donate/

Where to find Jamie:
Instagram LinkedIn TikTok Test Those Breasts Facebook Group LinkTree
Jamie Vaughn in the News!

Thanks for listening!
I would appreciate your rating and review where you listen to podcasts!

I am not a doctor and not all information in this podcast comes from qualified healthcare providers, therefore may not constitute medical advice. For personalized medical advice, you should reach out to one of the qualified healthcare providers interviewed on this podcast and/or seek medical advice from your own providers .