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When the clock struck midnight, ringing in the new year, I couldn't help but marvel at the journey we've collectively navigated—a path of battling breast cancer, woven with 23 lessons of 2023 that turned scars into stars. As your host, I'm thrilled to share my own story of transformation and the myriad ways we, as a community, can emerge stronger, wiser, and more connected.  Podcast Producer, Min Sukree helps share my lessons from the genesis of this podcast to the critical importance of early detection, this episode isn't just about celebrating medical victories—it's a deep dive into the psychological rebirth and the emotional renaissance that follows.

We're not alone on this voyage; we're accompanied by a chorus of voices, who shed light on the intricacies of cancer treatments. We also explore the solidarity found in support networks in our communities.

Join me in celebrating the power of personal stories that crisscross the globe, the fortitude found in relationships, and the self-discovery that blooms from shared experiences.

Mentioned in this episode!
Share A Latte with Min Sukree and Jamie Vaughn 

Lymphedema Therapist Catherine Bunker  

Cancer Community Clubhouse w/Natalie Stevenson 

The Breast Cancer Coach - Tammy Marcotte 

Caregiver Stories with Tom and Deno 

Hospice Care with Jennifer Terstreip 

Nevada Cancer Coalition with Amy Thompson & Kristen Hackbarth 

Jamie's Therapist Dr. Terianne Harrison 

Dr. Tiffany Troso (O

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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When Dr. Elisabeth Potter first witnessed a mastectomy, it was a pivotal moment that set her on a path to becoming a leader in natural breast reconstruction. Now, as my guest, she shares her profound dedication to reshaping lives through innovative microsurgical techniques like the DIEP flap procedure. Our conversation delves into not only the medical intricacies of her work, but the emotional odyssey of healing and self-acceptance her patients embark upon.

Moments of vulnerability often lead to the greatest strengths, and this rings especially true in the realm of breast reconstruction. Dr. Potter's insights remind us that for many women, rebuilding their bodies is an integral part of reclaiming their identity after cancer. She eloquently articulates the necessity of compassionate, patient-centered care that embraces the whole person – body, mind, and spirit. It's a compelling reminder of the resilience harbored within those who journey through reconstruction, and the sacred role that medical professionals play in facilitating their recovery.

Looking towards the horizon, we celebrate the recent strides in advocacy that have fortified women's healthcare rights and discuss the ongoing need to adapt health legislation to the evolving landscape of medical options. Dr. Potter forecasts a future bright with the promise of progress, reflecting on the impact of female surgeons' rising prominence and the critical importance of advocacy in women's health.

Contact Dr. Elisabeth Potter:
[email protected] 

Dr. Potter on Instagram 

Dr. Potter on Facebook 

Dr. Potter on LinkedIn 

Dr. Potter's Website

Resources:
Women's Health and Cancer Rights Act     - Please read!

Interview with Dr. Cabiling - Jamie's breast surgeon

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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Have you ever wondered about the intricacies involved in diagnosing and treating breast cancer? I, Jamie Vaughn, invite you to join my conversation with my radiologist, Dr. Bruce Kaplan, as we journey through my battle with the disease. Dr. Kaplan, a specialist in breast imaging, played a vital role in my diagnosis and treatment, and his expert knowledge provides a unique insight into this prevalent disease.

Our discussion dives into the enormous flood of information that comes with a breast cancer diagnosis and the critical role of second opinions. Listen, as we take you through the often less discussed topic of male breast cancer, and the comparisons in treatment faced by male patients. We talk about mammogram confusion and the importance of self-advocacy in screenings, especially in our current era of AI-aided early detection.


Contact Dr. Kaplan:
[email protected]  

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 .

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Talk about a roller coaster ride! Join Jamie Vaughn while we hear Amy Banocy, a bestselling author and breast cancer survivor give us an unfiltered, intimate look into her transformative journey and her battles with the emotional traumas that come with a breast cancer diagnosis. This episode is a raw, emotional tour de force, exploring the highs and lows of what Amy calls her breast cancer "fuckery", her literary success with "Baring it All," and her impassioned mission to shed light on the less-spoken realities of cancer. BARING IT ALL on Amazon     FREE Chapter

Her story serves as a beacon of inspiration for all of us, not just those touched by cancer. Amy's resilience and her shift in outlook from relying solely on positivity to embracing a full range of emotions is nothing short of awe-inspiring. We also get an insider's view into Amy's personal life, exploring how her diagnosis altered her relationships, particularly strengthening her marriage. Her experiences and insights will surely resonate with anyone going through a similar journey.

We also delve into the nitty-gritty of a breast cancer diagnosis—talking about the practical aspects that are often overlooked including the importance of self-advocacy, boundary-setting with loved ones, and managing hair loss. Amy's fervor for creating safe spaces and promoting a realistic narrative around breast cancer is evident throughout.

Contact Amy:
[email protected]
Amy's Personal Instagram and Instagram: Baringitalltogether
Amy's Facebook
Amy Banocy's Website

Resources:
Media
 

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 facing breast cancer not once, but twice. Tara Ehlert, a breast cancer survivor, joins Jamie Vaughn to share her compelling story. Diagnosed at 30, Tara thought she had put cancer behind her until it returned, metastasized, and more aggressive. Her inspiring tale not only underlines the importance of being an informed and assertive patient but also ignites a conversation about the critical role of support systems and the power of using one's voice in the healthcare system.

Tara's breast cancer journey had her navigating through various support and resource platforms, a process not without its frustrations. From her disappointment with a breast cancer group to her discovery of the Cancer Community Clubhouse , her experience sheds light on the resources available for women battling metastatic breast cancer. We also touch on the necessity of emotional support, reaching out, and the potential lifelines these platforms can provide during such trying times.

The concluding part of our conversation has Tara offering valuable advice to those newly diagnosed with breast cancer.
Contact Tara:
[email protected]
Find Tara on Instagram
Find Tara on Facebook

Resources Mentioned in the episode:
Pinocchio's Mom's On The Run
Podcast Episode with Natalie Stevenson @Cancer Community Clubhouse 

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 found yourself standing on the precipice of a battle you never signed up for? Join me, Jamie Vaughn, as we traverse the battlefield of breast cancer with the fearless warrior and survivor, Rory Zura. Hear her tale of triumph over this aggressive disease and glean insights into how she turned adversity into advocacy with her venture, Foobs and Fitness. Be a part of this remarkable journey that underscores the importance of being proactive, seeking professional advice, and staking a claim on your health.

In an age where Dr. Google seems to have all the answers, our conversation steers towards the value of expert advice and the risks of self-diagnosis. Hear from Rory about the often-overlooked complications of breast cancer treatment, including dehydration and more. We put a spotlight on the little-known side effect of cording following mastectomy, and how Rory battled micromets found in her lymph nodes. Prepare to be swept up in her resolve to face her reality head-on and her relentless pursuit of the right to make informed decisions about her treatment.

We also dive into the world of support systems and how they form a lifeline during the cancer journey. Find out how businesses like Foobs and Fitness, online communities, and loved ones can play a pivotal role in your fight. Explore with us the significance of self-advocacy, especially when managing conditions like lymphedema, and how simple routines like lymphedema drainage exercise programs can shift the scales. This conversation is not just about surviving cancer; it's about thriving, finding your voice, and empowering yourself to ensure that every step you take is a stride toward victory.

Contact Rori:

[email protected]
IG @foobsandfitness

Resources:
Lymphedema Drainage Exercises 

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

Here's your backstage pass to the complex world of palliative and hospice care with Jennifer Terstriep, a seasoned registered nurse, and COO of Infinity Hospice Care. This episode doesn't just skim the surface. It delves into how both models of care operate, shedding light on the unique benefits, and most importantly, dispelling common misconceptions. You'll gain insights on how palliative care works on a mobile model, reaching out to patients and their families right at their homes, and Infinity Hospice Care's commendable commitment to our veterans as a Level Five We Honor Veterans status program.

Take a walk along the challenging journey of cancer patients and learn about the impact of palliative care teams in creating personalized transition plans. Jennifer breaks down the often daunting task of discussing end-of-life plans and the significant role commercial insurance coverage plays in supporting patients with a cancer diagnosis. The conversation clearly underscores the significance of educating physicians about these plans, aiming to bring about peace of mind during the testing times of a cancer diagnosis.

Jennifer emphasizes patient advocacy and education, a beacon of light guiding patients and their families through their care plans. Experience the invaluable work of Jennifer and her team at Infinity Hospice Care. This episode is your key to understanding a convoluted, yet vital aspect of healthcare. Tune in.

Contact Jennifer:
Email Jennifer
Resources:
Infinity Hospice Care 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

Have you ever thought about the power of intuition? Kim Robinson, a breast cancer survivor, did. Kim's lemon-sized tumor could be FELT but NOT SEEN on imaging-3D mammography or Breast MRI. Not only did she feel something was off before her diagnosis, but she also found her voice to advocate for herself w/ her insurance company, leading to her early detection of cancer. Kim shared her journey from being diagnosed w/ stage 1A breast cancer in 2016 to undergoing double mastectomy w/ expanders in 2018 and implants in 2019. She ultimately had them explanted and opted for the DIEP Flap surgery at Center For Restorative Breast Surgery Vanessa Vance, a "Previvor", and now an advocate for Previvors,  joins us to share her proactive steps to reduce her own risk of cancer through a preventative mastectomy and breast reconstruction. She was better able to make those decisions through her serendipitous friendship with Kim. Throughout the episode, we delve into the importance of self-advocacy and patient rights. We discussed the role of social media in rallying patient advocates and the medical community to keep the S codes in place after the 2019 changes that would make it considerably more difficult for many women to be able to have the DIEP Flap surgery. Kim and Vanessa share their experiences w/ genetic testing and the ways to navigate the healthcare system, as well as their emotional journey in coming to terms w/ their body image post-surgery and the importance of supportive communities in helping them through their journeys. Vanessa recommends following Dr. Elizabeth Potter's IG account and her nonprofit Community Breast Surgery Alliance for more resources on advocacy. Kim suggests joining a local breast cancer group or the ABC program at the YMCA. This episode is a treasure trove of resources, experiences, and advice for those on a breast cancer journey and those who are Previvors wanting to know more about how they can take steps to reduce to risk of breast cancer.
Join Jamie Vaughn!

Contact:
EMail Kim Robinson

Vanessa IG
Vanessa LinkedIn

Resources:
Center For Restorative Breast Surgery

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 me in my important conversation with medical oncologist, Dr. Tiffany Troso, a powerhouse in the world of women's oncology. Her journey, passion, and commitment to helping others navigate the complexities of cancer care will inspire and educate you. Through her work, she has found the importance of holistic care and patient education, and she's eager to share her insights on making a difference.

We'll delve into how Dr. Troso helps her patients unravel the complexities of the medical jargon that oftentimes has patients reeling with fear and confusion. She also helps us understand the powerful use of journaling during our cancer care, guided by her practical advice on keeping track of symptoms and managing side effects.  Wrapping up, Dr. Troso has left us with a recommended new oncology patient checklist to aid patients on what to bring to their consultation appointments. You can find that in the show notes. Whether you're a patient, a caregiver, or a medical professional, you'll walk away with a treasure trove of knowledge. Tune in for a meaningful discourse that promises to uplift, inform, and inspire.

Join me, Jamie Vaughn while we tune in, listen, and learn! 

Contact Tiffany:

About Tiffany A. Troso-Sandoval, MD

E-Mail Dr. Troso

Facebook Group: Winning The Cancer Journey 

Dr. Tiffany Troso on LinkedIn 

Resources:

New OncologyPatient Checklist- what to bring to your consultation:

Planner 

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 having an advocate, a coach, and a guide all rolled into one as you navigate the turbulent waters of breast cancer treatment. Our guest on this episode, Tammy Marcotte, possesses an impressive 25 years of experience in the medical device industry and genomic space. Her invaluable insights and empowering advice on your journey through breast cancer are not to be missed.

Tammy draws on her experience, offering a deep dive into the intricacies of navigating the medical industry, and emphasizing the importance of keeping the dialogue open about breast cancer in men. Not only does she provide an experienced viewpoint on medical diagnosis and treatments, but she also stresses the importance of second opinions in ensuring the best treatment options for each individual. Her work reveals the often unseen layers of the healthcare industry and the myriad of treatment modalities available.

This episode is primarily an exploration of the role of a health coach in the breast cancer journey. Tammy brings light to her tireless efforts in providing comprehensive support and resources to those dealing with this life-altering diagnosis. From reviewing pathology and imaging reports to ensuring mental well-being, Tammy's work is instrumental in shifting the narrative of a breast cancer diagnosis from a journey walked alone to a collaborative process. Let this episode inspire you, educate you, and above all, empower you with the knowledge you need.

 Join me, Jamie Vaughn while we tune in, listen, and learn!
 
 
 
 

Contact Tammy Marcotte: 

Email Tammy Marcotte [email protected]

Find Breast Cancer Coach on Instagram 

Resources:

Breast Cancer Coach Website - HIPAA Compliant Dashboard

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 .