The Cancer Sucks Podcast

Welcome to another WEEKLY UPDATE! Today we’re traveling back in time to October 2025, where Jay was navigating chemo delays, bad blood cell counts, and discussing the possibility of taking a new pancreatic cancer drug. Jay tells Adrienne the toll that schedule changes have on his mental health, how work is going, and the curiosity of trying to gain weight when he’s only ever tried to lose it. This update may be months old, but every bit of it is still relevant to his current cancer journey, and we’re sure the journey of those around us. Thanks so much for listening!

(this update was recorded on 10/2/25)

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In this heartfelt episode, Jay Williams and Noam Dromi explore the profound themes of life, death, and the power of storytelling in navigating cancer journeys. They share personal stories, insights on legacy, and practical advice on confronting mortality with grace and honesty.

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CHAPTERS

00:00 The Power of Community in Cancer Journeys

05:08 Storytelling as a Tool for Change

07:46 Navigating Personal Loss and Caregiving

10:42 The Importance of Legacy and Communication

13:31 Facing Mortality with Grace

15:55 Creating Meaningful Connections Through Storytelling

24:20 The Power of Last Words

26:37 Embracing Mortality and Purposeful Living

27:48 Innovations in Cancer Treatment

28:46 Navigating Terminal Illness

30:20 The Challenge of Asking for Help

31:37 The Reality of Healthcare Funding

33:41 The Importance of Community Support

35:31 The Gift of Connection and Vulnerability

37:51 Understanding Individual Needs in Illness

41:53 The Importance of Expressing Gratitude

44:38 Letting Go of Past Grievances

49:05 Creating a Legacy Through Storytelling

Welcome to today’s WEEKLY UPDATE! In this episode, Jay Williams shares a candid update on his ongoing battle with stage four pancreatic cancer, discussing recent medical appointments, new treatments, and the importance of a holistic approach to health and wellness during cancer treatment.

We’ll discuss:

• The new pancreatic cancer drug, Daraxonrasib

• Jay’s upcoming appointment with an Herbologist to discuss diet, supplements, and other wholistic treatments

• Jay’s upcoming appointment with his Pain Management doctor 

• Blood level management and side effects

• The importance of patient advocacy and collaboration

(this update was recorded on 5/17/26)

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00:00 Introduction to the Journey

01:29 Medical Updates -  Daraxonrasib 

06:25 Exploring New Treatment Options - Herbalogist

10:44 Pain Management Doctor Appointment

13:25 Meeting with Whipple Surgeon

15:51 What Options Are Left?

19:58 How Jay's Feeling Right Now

25:09 Closing Thoughts and Future Outlook

Join us as we explore the inspiring stories from the Pan Can Walk and Relay for Life events, featuring personal journeys, innovative cancer research, and community support efforts. Learn how technology, advocacy, and community engagement are making a difference in the fight against cancer.

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00:00 - Introduction and Overview of the Episode

01:24 - Jay’s Medical Update 

05:21 - Exploring New Treatment Options and AI in Cancer Care

10:53 - Advocacy and Patient Empowerment in Cancer Treatment

14:48 - Inspiration from Cancer Events: PanCAN and Relay for Life

18:11 - The importance of Slowing Down Cancer Progression

19:11 - PanCAN: Support and Fundraising for Pancreatic Cancer

20:16 - Relay for Life: Community and Personal Stories

24:15 - Parker’s Experience: Documenting the Events

28:15 - At the PanCAN walk and Interviews with Other Survivors

35:17 - Parker’s Experience with Relay for Life

38:57 - At Relay for Life

42:11 - Overall Experience at Events

Most people shy away from the tough lessons life throws at you—especially when it involves cancer, faith, and flying blind. Parker Williams did not just survive his dad’s pancreatic battle; he turned it into a masterclass on resilience, love, and learning to ride the wave when your world flips upside down. 

Welcome to Part 4 of the Cancer Sucks Podcast’s Caregiver Series! In this episode, Parker reveals the raw, unfiltered truth about stepping up under pressure, finding humor in chaos, and discovering that some of the biggest lessons come when you least expect them.

You'll discover how a 25-year-old managed to keep his family afloat during a medical rollercoaster, turning moments of fear into powerful lessons about control, gratitude, and one heck of a love story with Ashlyn. From the biggest health scare of his life to planning a wedding amid a cancer fight, Parker shares the candid lessons he’s learned about life, death, and what really matters—Because, remember: cancer might suck, but your life doesn’t have to!

For more CANCER SUCKS PODCAST ⬇

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Donate to Help Jay Fight Pancreatic Cancer

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Follow Adrienne

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For booking and other business inquiries: [email protected]

00:00 Introduction to Episode 9

02:17 Jay's Medical Updates!

05:30 The Importance of Caregivers

08:14 Fundraising and Community Support

14:49 Introducing Jay's son, Parker

19:24 Rewind to June 2023

24:32 Parker & Adrienne Hear The Diagnosis

25:45 Finding Out It's Pancreatic Cancer

29:59 Growing Up Fast - The Only Sibling At Home

33:44 How I Got Cancer Doesn't Matter

34:48 Navigating Love While Caretaking

42:21 The Biggest Lesson Parker Learned

44:20 Navigating Wedding Planning While Caretaking

49:50 Family Support and the Importance of Togetherness

53:23 Lessons Learned Through Adversity

57:36 Finding Strength in Control and Perspective

01:01:05 Parker's Parting Wisdom

Welcome to Part 3 of the Cancer Sucks Podcast’s Caregiver Series!

Most people think cancer is just a patient’s battle. Nope! This episode flips the script and brings you behind the scenes into the family’s front lines. Jay’s son Brantley and his wife Savannah share unfiltered, heartfelt stories about what it’s like to navigate a loved one’s cancer from hundreds of miles away. Spoiler alert: It’s a rollercoaster of hope, guilt, humor, and unwavering love.

You’ll discover the surprising emotional toll of being geographically distant during the hardest days—plus, why maintaining a routine and leaning into humor can be your secret superpower. We break down the power of a village when you’re fighting cancer, and how shared experiences, like military service or firefighter bravery, shape your perspective on risk, mortality, and resilience.

This episode isn’t just feel-good; it’s packed with practical advice for families, friends, and anyone caring for someone with cancer. If you’ve ever felt helpless, or just want to understand what your loved ones are really going through, this is your must-listen. It’ll make you appreciate your support system and maybe even inspire you to be someone’s village today.

In the end, it’s about remembering—no matter what battles we face, we’re never alone. Your life doesn’t have to suck just because cancer does. When you surround yourself with love, humor, and a little determination, you can fight like a family, no matter how far apart. Perfect for caregivers, family members, or anyone who loves a good dose of raw, real inspiration.

For more CANCER SUCKS PODCAST ⬇

Follow us on INSTAGRAM for daily updates, laughs, and raw behind-the-scenes moments!

Donate to Help Jay Fight Pancreatic Cancer

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Find ALL our links in one place, here!

Follow Adrienne

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For booking and other business inquiries: [email protected]

00:00 - Introduction of Podcast and it’s purpose

01:27 - Understanding Caregiver Perspectives

03:48 - Family Dynamics and Relationships

08:54 - Navigating Life Changes

11:44 - Facing Morality and Health Scares

17:35 - The role of First Responders

24:29 - Mental Resilience in Crisis

30:21 - Building a Supportive Community

34:43 - Advice for Caregivers and Supporters

Welcome to Part 2 of the Cancer Sucks Podcast’s Caregiver Series, where hosts Jay Williams and Adrienne Finch sit down with Jay’s family members for raw, honest conversations that explore the profound impact of cancer on family dynamics. In today’s episode, they introduce Jay's sister, Julie, who shares her perspective as a family member of a cancer patient. The conversation delves into the emotional challenges faced by caregivers, the importance of support systems, and the unique bond between siblings navigating the complexities of illness. Through personal anecdotes and statistics, the episode highlights the necessity of connection and understanding in the face of adversity. They discuss the emotional complexities of dealing with cancer within their family. They explore themes of loss, guilt, and the importance of communication and support systems. Jay shares personal experiences of navigating his diagnosis and the impact it has on family dynamics, while also emphasizing the need for positivity and early detection. The discussion culminates in advice for loved ones facing similar challenges, highlighting the significance of cherishing relationships and maintaining a hopeful outlook.

For more CANCER SUCKS PODCAST ⬇

Follow us on INSTAGRAM for daily updates, laughs, and raw behind-the-scenes moments!

Donate to Help Jay Fight Pancreatic Cancer

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Follow the CANCER SUCKS Playlist!

Find ALL our links in one place, here!

Follow Adrienne

Follow Parker

For booking and other business inquiries: [email protected]

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Its Purpose

02:41 Let's Welcome Jay's Sister, Julie!

03:46 Statistics on Caregiving and Emotional Support

04:14 Cancer Caregiving Fun Facts

06:20 Sibling Relationships and Shared Experiences

08:58 Coping with Long Distance Family

11:29 Feeling Helpless When You Live Far Away

13:59 The Importance of Sibling Support

16:21 Losing Both Parents to Cancer

17:39 Guilt and Emotional Struggles

19:08 Are You Afraid of Cancer?

21:30 Getting the Diagnosis Phone Call

23:26 Finding Positivity in Adversity

24:35 Lessons from Loss

25:31 Dealing With Survivor's Guilt

26:54 A Powerful Will To Live

29:16 Legacy of Love and Strength

32:07 Purpose and Helping Others

34:31 Advice for Families of Cancer Patients

38:16 Closing Thoughts and Gratitude

Welcome to our 6th WEEKLY UPDATE and our very first guest episode! This episode kicks off our mini “caregiver” series, where we’ll sit down with some of Jay’s family members to get their POV.

Today, we begin with Jay’s wonderful wife, Cathy. But first, Jay shares some not-so-great pancreatic cancer updates, and where he’s at in his treatment. Jay and Adrienne discuss maintaining positivity, navigating treatment, and the power of social media in cancer journeys. They revisit the power of emotional resilience, and the importance of community support. Then, Jay’s wife Cathy joins the conversation to discuss caregiving, the emotional rollercoaster, and the power of community and positivity in facing adversity.

(this update was recorded on 9/19/26)

For more CANCER SUCKS PODCAST ⬇

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For booking and other business inquiries: [email protected]

00:00 Perception of Time and Cancer

07:23 The Battle with Cancer: Weight Loss and Health Challenges

09:59 Adapting to Treatment: Chemo and Medical Innovations

12:24 Technology in Cancer Care: Dexcom and Injections

16:50 Understanding the DEXCOM Device

19:22 Navigating Medical Procedures and Tests

22:20 The Reality of Chemotherapy

26:26 A Day in the Life of Chemo

28:09 Understanding the Chemotherapy Process

28:50 Experiences in the Infusion Area

30:04 The Importance of Individualized Care

31:39 The Role of Content Creators in Cancer Awareness

33:44 Challenging Cancer Stigmas

35:21 The Power of Positive Mindset

36:26 Welcoming Jay’s Wife, Cathy!

40:02 The Role of Caregivers in Cancer Journeys

40:56 Navigating the Emotional Landscape of a Diagnosis

42:43 The Impact of Treatment on Caregivers

43:36 Maintaining Relationships During Tough Times

45:21 Balancing Traditional and Alternative Treatments

47:48 The Weight of Hope and Anxiety

48:58 Finding Positivity Amidst Challenges

52:07 Self-Care Practices for Caregivers

54:45 Coping Strategies for Anxiety

55:29 Family Dynamics and Communication

56:42 The Role of Caregivers

58:58 Finding Silver Linings

01:02:07 Advice for Caregivers

01:05:21 The Importance of Community Support

Welcome to our 5th WEEKLY UPDATE! This episode features a heartfelt conversation about facing pancreatic cancer. Jay and Adrienne discuss the dedication of first responders, and other professions that require facing your own mortality. They revisit the importance of perspective in life's challenges. Jay shares personal experiences with chemotherapy, emotional resilience, and admiration for those who serve others. Jay and Adrienne discuss the causes of cancer, and why Jay doesn't care to know how he got cancer. They talk about the importance of community and planning for the future, including making logistics decisions regarding your own death, and how that conversation impacts your loved ones. The hosts wrap this episode with personal stories, insights on medical decisions, and the value of surrounding oneself with positive influences.

Thank you so much for being here.

(this update was recorded on 9/12/25)

For more CANCER SUCKS PODCAST ⬇

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Donate to Help Jay Fight Pancreatic Cancer

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Find ALL our links in one place, here!

Follow Adrienne

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For booking and other business inquiries: [email protected]

CHAPTERS

00:00 Celebrating Milestones and Family Pride

05:30 Understanding the Emotional Toll of Illness

08:23 The Journey of Becoming a Firefighter

11:15 The Bonds of Brotherhood in First Responders

14:39 Reflections on Mortality and Sacrifice

20:21 Facing Mortality and Choices

22:16 Life's Challenges and Perspectives

22:44 Understanding Cancer's Impact

24:36 Statistics and Reality of Cancer

26:41 Coping with Cancer Diagnosis

28:39 Genetic Factors and Environmental Influences

31:04 The Complexity of Cancer Causes

32:30 Navigating Dietary Concerns

35:40 The Role of Information and Misinformation

38:57 Trusting Medical Professionals

42:15 Navigating Truth in Cancer Treatment

43:12 Overwhelmed by Well-Meaning Advice

44:10 The Dilemma of Alternative Treatments

45:09 The Fear of Missed Opportunities

46:05 The Pressure of Decision-Making

47:03 Confronting Mortality and Family Responsibilities

47:32 Planning for the Inevitable

48:28 The Importance of Organization

50:15 The Balance of Acceptance and Preparedness

51:07 Legacy and Leaving a Mark

53:00 Finding Humor in Heavy Topics

53:53 The Power of Shared Experiences

55:19 Highs and Lows of Life

59:30 Surrounding Yourself with Positive Influences

Welcome to our 4th weekly update! In today’s episode, Jay shares what it’s really like to do chemo for the 27th time, battle the fear of the unknown, and keep a sense of humor while navigating life’s harshest storms. 

You’ll discover how gratitude isn’t just a cliche — it’s a powerful weapon against despair, and how “facing your mortality” can actually lead to a more meaningful, joyful life. Jay confesses his struggles with burnout, the challenge of treatment setbacks, and the surprisingly relatable spiders and squirrels that pop up at his place. It’s a masterclass in resilience, positivity, and the art of appreciating the everyday.

We break down: the importance of mental health, the science behind gratitude rewiring your brain, and why your attitude is your secret weapon. Plus, Jay’s straightforward truth about how he keeps hope alive — not just for himself, but for everyone fighting their own battles. 

Whether you’re dealing with health struggles, life setbacks, or just need a reminder that “it’s okay to be scared” — this episode is your dose of real talk with a side of inspiration.

Why does this matter? Because no matter how tough your situation, there’s a chance to find the good, to celebrate the small wins, and to keep going, even when life feels like a relentless American Ninja Warrior course. If you need a reason to smile, a nudge to stay positive, or just want to hear from someone who’s turned cancer into a catalyst for hope — hit play. Jay proves that while cancer sucks, your attitude doesn’t have to.

Ready for a dose of authenticity, hope, and practical wisdom? This episode packs a punch — because when life gets tough, the real magic lies in choosing how to respond.

(this update was recorded on 9/5/25)

00:00 Weekly Check-In and Health Update

04:39 Teaching the Business of Entertainment at LMU

07:17 Highs and Lows of the Week

14:01 Pest Control Chronicles

15:15 The Importance of Gratitude

17:48 Mindfulness and Intentionality

19:30 Facing Mortality

21:12 The Importance of Attitude

23:04 Helping Others as Healing

25:42 Building a Supportive Community

27:22 Countering Fear with Reality

27:51 The Humor in Worrying

29:05 Facing Anxiety: Worst Case Scenarios

29:57 Finding Positivity in Adversity

31:05 Navigating Emotions During Tough Times

32:09 Gratitude Amidst Struggles

33:37 Current Treatment Journey

35:59 Updates on Cancer Progress

37:16 The Importance of Sharing Experiences

38:31 Accepting the Reality of Cancer

For more CANCER SUCKS PODCAST ⬇

Follow us on INSTAGRAM for daily updates, laughs, and raw behind-the-scenes moments!

Donate to Help Jay Fight Pancreatic Cancer

Watch the show on YOUTUBE

Follow the CANCER SUCKS Playlist!

Find ALL our links in one place, here!

Follow Adrienne

Follow Parker

For booking and other business inquiries: [email protected]