Together, We Fight

Angela O. is a two-year breast cancer survivor and caregiver to her husband who is a disabled war-veteran. She's always had a fighting spirit, but when she was diagnosed with cancer in 2024, she had to decide how she was going to navigate the journey ahead. In this episode, Angela shares how throughout her treatment she gave herself permission to get stronger, to choose curiosity over, and to continue to live fully for the rest of her days.

Clinical dietitian Jayla Thurman from City of Hope® Cancer Center Atlanta breaks down the top three nutrition myths cancer patients hear most often. She explains what the science really says about sugar and cancer, how to stay properly hydrated during treatment and which popular diets may actually do more harm than good. If you're looking for clear, trustworthy guidance on cancer nutrition, this episode offers practical, evidence‑based advice for patients and caregivers.

Loretta S., a wife and mother of two sons, one with special needs, became a full‑time caregiver when her husband Rob was diagnosed with cancer. In this episode, she shares the emotional toll of caregiving, the moment she realized she was losing herself and the self‑care practices that helped her regain balance. Loretta also reveals a powerful piece of advice from a stranger that changed the way her family approached cancer. This conversation offers honest, practical insight for anyone caring for a loved one through treatment.

Carl Williamson, Manager of Pastoral Care at City of Hope® Cancer Center Chicago, has spent years helping patients and families navigate the emotional and spiritual challenges of cancer. In this episode, he shares practical advice on how to support someone facing a diagnosis, including what to say, what to avoid and how to be present in a way that truly helps.

Carl also reflects on the role faith can play in coping with uncertainty and how small acts of compassion can make a lasting impact. His insights come from real experiences and offer meaningful guidance for anyone walking alongside a loved one through cancer.

Karyn C. is a five‑year breast cancer survivor and proud world traveler. She and her husband spent years planning for early retirement and a life of adventure, but everything changed when she received a life‑altering diagnosis just as their journey began.

In this episode, Karyn shares what it was like to face cancer at the threshold of her dream life and how she found strength, perspective and purpose in the midst of uncertainty. Her story is honest, inspiring and filled with practical insights on staying grounded and living fully, no matter where life takes you.

Jennifer Cargile is a Speech Language Pathologist and former Manager of Oncology Rehabilitation at City of Hope® Cancer Center Atlanta. In this episode, she shares the surprising benefits of working with a speech therapist during and after cancer treatment. Jennifer explains how speech therapy can support swallowing, communication, and overall quality of life and she offers practical tips that make a meaningful difference in recovery.

Her insights are clear, encouraging and grounded in years of experience helping patients navigate the challenges that come with treatment.

Rudy H. is a seven‑year colon cancer survivor and a firefighter with more than 40 years of service. He's a powerful example of how early detection and following screening guidelines can save lives. In this episode, Rudy shares the impact cancer has had on the firefighting community and offers life‑saving advice that everyone should take seriously.

He also reflects on the importance of speaking up, getting screened and supporting one another through difficult diagnoses. Rudy's story is honest, inspiring and a reminder of why early detection matters.

Alexandria Callahan, LCPC, BC‑DMT, GLCMA, Behavioral Health Therapist at City of Hope® Cancer Center Chicago, talks openly about the challenges many patients face with body image and intimacy after cancer treatment. She shares practical tools and strategies to help rebuild connection with yourself and with your partner.

Alexandria's insights come from years of supporting patients through emotional and physical changes. Her guidance is compassionate, grounded and designed to help anyone navigating life after treatment feel more confident and understood.

Jose and Shemika have been married for 19 years and share a long history with cancer. They were each diagnosed just two years apart, forcing them to navigate life as both patient and caregiver. In this episode, they open up about the emotional challenges they faced, how they supported one another and the moments that kept them going on their hardest days.

Their story is honest, vulnerable and full of insight for anyone walking through cancer with a partner. It's a reminder of the strength that comes from love, commitment and refusing to give up on each other.

Cheyloh E. and Laura G. are both mothers of six, both diagnosed with cancer and both treated at City of Hope® Cancer Center Phoenix. Cheyloh for breast cancer and Laura for ovarian cancer. Through their diagnoses, they found each other and formed a friendship that helped them navigate treatment and the emotional challenges that came with it.

In this episode, they talk about how friendships change during cancer, what support can look like when life becomes overwhelming and how to find community when you need it most. Their story is honest, uplifting and full of practical insight for anyone seeking connection during a difficult time.