In this episode of The Other C Word, I sit down with Michelle Patidar, a now 7 year cancer survivor and Cancer Recovery Coach who was diagnosed at just 32 years old. We dive into her cancer journey—the challenges, the lessons, and what life looks like on the other side of treatment. But beyond her story, we also get into a topic that so many of us are becoming more aware of: toxic loads in our daily lives.

From the personal care products we use to the household cleaners we trust, Michelle shares eye-opening insights into the hidden toxins that may be impacting our health. We also break down practical, realistic product swap recommendations—whether you’re focused on cancer prevention, recovery, or just creating a cleaner lifestyle.

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the sheer number of chemicals in everyday products but don’t know where to start, this episode is for you. Tune in for an inspiring conversation and walk away with simple, effective ways to reduce your toxic exposure.

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00:00:00 Intro

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#cleanliving #toxinfree #cancerprevention #cancerrecovery #breastcancerawareness #holistichealth #lowtoxlife #nontoxicliving #cleanbeauty #healthylifestyle #chemicalfree #cancersurvivor #wellnesstips #mindfulwellness

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In this episode of The Other C Word, I share the hardest choice I’ve ever had to make—terminating my pregnancy to save my own life. At three months pregnant, I was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer, but because I was in Texas, I wasn’t allowed to have the procedure. I had to fly to San Francisco while my cancer spread, and by the time I got there, my spine had fractured in three places. A year later, when I thought I had already lost everything, my doctors told me my hormone levels were rising again—and that we had to remove my ovaries, officially ending my chance of biological motherhood.

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00:00:00 Intro

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#infertility #pregnancyloss #cancer #cancersurvivor #infertilityawareness #cancerawareness #metastaticbreastcancer #grief #motherhood #reproductiverights #miscarriage #cancerinfertility #breastcancer #breastcancerinfertility #breastcancerawareness 

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In this episode of The Other C Word, I sit down with Dr. Dhivya Srinivasa, a renowned breast reconstruction plastic surgeon, to talk about all things breast cancer reconstruction. From understanding the options available to patients after a breast cancer diagnosis to the physical and emotional aspects of reconstructive surgery, we cover it all. We also dive into a mock consultation where Dr. Srinivasa shares how she approaches patient care with compassion and expertise. Whether you're navigating your own cancer journey, supporting someone you love, or just curious about the process, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical advice.

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00:00 Intro

00:01:22 Dr. Divya

00:02:22 Scenario 1

00:06:08 Different Surgeons

00:08:12 Reconstruction Options

00:11:00 Above vs Below the Muscle

00:16:13 Fat Grafting

00:25:04 Age Considerations

00:26:51 Metastatic Disease Considerations

00:36:48 Insurance Coverage

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#breastcancerreconstruction #breastcancersurgery #plasticsurgery #breastplasticsurgery #cancersurvivorship #breastcancerawarenessvideo #breastcancertestimony #cancerawareness #stage4cancer #cancermindset #metastaticbreastcancer #cancerdiagnosis #breastcancerfighter #cancerwarrior #cancerwarriorstory ##hormonepositivebreastcancer #caringforsomeonewithcancer #livingwithcancer #livingwithstage4 #stage4breastcancer #stage4cancersurvivors #stage4breastcancersurvivorstories #cancercaretaker #metasaticbreastcancervlog #breastcancerpodcast #cancerpodcast #cancersurvivorpodcast #podcast

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In this episode of The Other C Word, I sit down with Dr. Hala Borno, CEO of Trial Library, to explore how clinical trials are transforming cancer treatment and what patients and providers need to know about accessing these life-changing opportunities. We dive into the challenges of improving diversity in clinical research, simplifying trial enrollment, and empowering patients with the knowledge to advocate for their care. Dr. Borno also shares her insights on how Trial Library is making clinical trials more inclusive and accessible for everyone. Whether you're a provider, navigating your own cancer journey, or supporting someone you love, this conversation is packed with invaluable information and hope for the future of cancer care.

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• Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bismalalji/

• TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@bismalalji

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00:00:00 Intro

00:02:17 Dr. Hala Borno

00:06:40 Academic vs Community Care

00:09:19 "The Long Commute"

00:13:39 Trial Library

00:22:15 For Patients

00:26:58 Outro

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#cancertrials #cancerclinicaltrials #clinicaltrials #breastcancerclinincaltrials #cancersurvivorship #breastcancerawarenessvideo #breastcancertestimony #cancerawareness #stage4cancer #cancermindset #metastaticbreastcancer #cancerdiagnosis #breastcancerfighter #cancerwarrior #cancerwarriorstory ##hormonepositivebreastcancer #caringforsomeonewithcancer #livingwithcancer #livingwithstage4 #stage4breastcancer #stage4cancersurvivors #stage4breastcancersurvivorstories #cancercaretaker #metasaticbreastcancervlog #breastcancerpodcast #cancerpodcast #cancersurvivorpodcast #podcast

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In this fascinating episode, Bisma sits down with Krystle Zuniga, a leading expert in cancer nutrition, to debunk myths and uncover the facts about how diet impacts cancer care and survivorship. From exploring the effects of sugar in cancer to understanding the role of supplements, Dr. Zuniga provides practical, science-backed insights for cancer thrivers. Plus, they break down popular trends, like AG1, and share easy ways to navigate eating while on your cancer journey. Whether you're in treatment, remission, or simply curious about the intersection of food and health, this episode is packed with actionable advice and hope.

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• Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bismalalji/

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00:00:00 Intro

00:01:32 Krystle Zuniga

00:02:53 Myth or Fact

00:19:24 Cancer Provention Guidelines

00:37:41 Keto & Fasting

00:43:27 Alkaline Water Myths

00:48:14 White Blood Cell Nutrition

00:53:16 Animal vs Plant Protein

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#cancernutrtion #cancerdiet #cancernutrtionist #cancerfoods #cancerjourney #cancersurvivorship #cancerrecovery #cancerawareness #stage4cancer #cancermindset #metastaticbreastcancer #cancerdiagnosis #breastcancerfighter #cancerwarrior #cancerwarriorstory #livingwithcancer #livingwithstage4 #stage4breastcancer #stage4cancersurvivors #cancercaretaker #breastcancerpodcast #cancerpodcast #cancersurvivorpodcast #podcast 

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The holiday season can be such a special time, but for cancer patients, it can also bring unique challenges. In this episode, I’m sharing my Holiday Survival Guide for Cancer Patients. From setting boundaries with family and friends, to navigating energy changes, managing finances, and staying true to yourself, I’m offering tips to help you make the most of the holidays without feeling overwhelmed. Whether you're dealing with fatigue, treatment side effects, or just the emotional toll of cancer, this guide will help you enjoy the season in your own way. Tune in for practical advice and uplifting support to get through the holidays with more ease and peace of mind.

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• Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bismalalji/

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00:00:00 Intro

00:01:57 Expectations

00:03:15 Saying No

00:05:14 Practice Saying No

00:06:07 Permission to be Alone

00:07:23 Dealing With Expectations

00:08:55 Set Realistic Limits

00:09:43 Holiday Traditions

00:12:48 Holiday Fashion

00:15:10 Self-Care

00:16:53 Holiday Finances

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#cancerandtheholidays #christmaaswithcancer #cancerjourney #cancersurvivorship #breastcancerawareness #breastcancertestimony #cancerawareness #stage4cancer #cancermindset #metastaticbreastcancer #cancerdiagnosis #breastcancerfighter #cancerwarrior #cancerwarriorstory #livingwithcancer #livingwithstage4 #stage4breastcancer #stage4cancersurvivors #stage4breastcancersurvivorstories #cancercaretaker #breastcancerpodcast #cancerpodcast #cancersurvivorpodcast #podcast #holidayguide #holidaystress 

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In this episode of The Other C Word, I’m joined by the inspiring Dr. Amy Morris— Stage 3 Ovarian Cancer warrior, and founder of the Cancer Freedom Program. Diagnosed at just age 30, Amy has taken her personal battle with cancer into a mission to helping women thrive after treatment.

We dive into:

- Her journey through diagnosis, treatment, and recovery

- The challenges women face after cancer and how to overcome them

- Strategies for lowering the risk of recurrence and reclaiming your health

- Practical tips for managing side effects, menopause, and body confidence

Whether you’re navigating a new diagnosis, living with metastatic disease, or trying to rebuild your life after treatment, this episode is packed with hope, guidance, and actionable steps to help you feel like yourself again.

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• Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bismalalji/

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00:01:04 Dr. Amy's Background

00:14:17 Founding Cancer Freedom Program

00:21:38 Reclaiming Life After Cancer

00:25:24 Diet Recommendations

00:37:02 Working With Metastatic Disease

00:40:41 Weight Gain/Loss

00:44:55 Info Overload

00:47:57 Protein Intake

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#cancerjourney #cancersurvivorship #cancerrecovery #cancerawareness #stage4cancer #cancermindset #metastaticbreastcancer #cancerdiagnosis #breastcancerfighter #cancerwarrior #cancerwarriorstory #livingwithcancer #livingwithstage4 #stage4breastcancer #stage4cancersurvivors #cancercaretaker #breastcancerpodcast #cancerpodcast #cancersurvivorpodcast #podcast #ovariancancer #ovariancancerawareness

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In this solo episode of The Other C Word, Bisma dives into the practical tools that have helped her navigate the emotional and physical challenges of her cancer journey. From Spoon Theory, which helps explain energy levels, to setting boundaries and finding emotional nourishment, she shares insights that have made a real difference in her day-to-day life. Bisma opens up about how mindfulness, journaling, and rest play a crucial role in her healing process, and she reflects on the importance of building a support system that truly understands your needs. Whether you're a cancer patient, a survivor, or a supporter, these tools offer guidance and comfort for anyone navigating a difficult journey.

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00:00:44 Spoon Theory

00:03:30 Mindfulness

00:06:01 Journaling

00:08:15 Time Blocking

00:09:50 Support Systems

00:11:36 Communicating Needs

00:12:25 Visualization & Affirmations

00:14:24 Rest

00:16:01 Setting Boundaries

00:17:58 Conclusion

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#cancerjourney #canceradvocacy #cancersurvivorship #breastcancerawarenessvideo #breastcancertestimony #cancerawareness #stage4cancer #cancermindset #cancerdiagnosis #breastcancerfighter #cancerwarrior #cancerwarriorstory #cancerjourney #caringforsomeonewithcancer #livingwithcancer #livingwithstage4 #stage4lungcancer #stage4cancersurvivors #cancercaretaker #breastancervlog #breastcancerpodcast #cancerpodcast #cancersurvivorpodcast #podcast

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Join me on this episode of The Other C Word as I sit down with Dr. Eric Singhi, a renowned Lung Oncologist dedicated to personalized cancer care. We talk basics like different types of lung cancer and also explore how advancements in science are transforming treatment plans and what it means to balance groundbreaking therapies with compassionate, patient-focused care. Dr. Singhi shares valuable insights on navigating lung cancer treatment with a focus on individual needs. Plus, we play a fun myth or fact game to break down common misconceptions. Don’t miss this episode full of expert advice and hope for the future of cancer care.

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00:00:00 Intro

00:00:44 Eric Singhi

00:08:40 Lung Cancer 101

00:12:40 Myth or Fact

00:33:43 Patient Centric Care

00:44:23 Developments in Lung Oncology

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#cancerjourney #canceradvocacy #cancersurvivorship #lungcancerawarenessvideo #lungcancertestimony #cancerawareness #stage4cancer #cancermindset #cancerdiagnosis #lungcancerfighter #cancerwarrior #cancerwarriorstory #cancerjourney #caringforsomeonewithcancer #livingwithcancer #livingwithstage4 #stage4lungcancer #stage4cancersurvivors #cancercaretaker #lungancervlog #lungcancerpodcast #cancerpodcast #cancersurvivorpodcast #podcast

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In this empowering episode of The Other C Word, we dive deep into the importance of self-advocacy during your cancer journey. Join Bisma as she shares invaluable insights on how to communicate effectively with your healthcare team, prepare for appointments, and express your concerns confidently. Bisma discusses how to build strong relationships with your medical team, understand your treatment options, and navigate the complexities of insurance. Whether you’re a newly diagnosed patient or a seasoned thriver, this episode is packed with advice to help you take charge of your health. Your health is your priority—it’s crucial your voice is heard!

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00:05:27 Family Involvement

00:13:22 Prepping For Appointments

00:28:18 Being Vulnerable with Doctor

00:34:32 Self Advocacy

00:36:32 Second Opinions

00:44:23 Your Voice Matters

00:46:24 Support Groups

00:47:57 Insurance Challenges

00:56:57 Financial Struggles

00:59:12 Conclusion

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#cancerjourney #canceradvocacy #howtotalktomyoncologist #whatquestionstoaskoncologist #cancerquestions #communicationhelp #cancersurvivorship #breastcancerawarenessvideo #breastcancertestimony #cancerawareness #stage4cancer #cancermindset #metastaticbreastcancer #cancerdiagnosis #breastcancerfighter #cancerwarrior #cancerwarriorstory #canceremotions #cancerjourney #caringforsomeonewithcancer #livingwithcancer #livingwithstage4 #stage4breastcancer #stage4cancersurvivors #stage4breastcancersurvivorstories #cancercaretaker #metasaticbreastcancervlog #breastcancerpodcast #cancerpodcast #cancersurvivorpodcast #podcast

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