Love the episode? Send us a text!

In this episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, host Laura Carfing welcomes Dr. Amy Morris, an ovarian cancer survivor and cancer researcher, to discuss navigating health and wellness post-cancer diagnosis. We delve into essential topics such as the side effects of treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, and hormonal therapies, including weight gain and the challenges of sudden menopause. Dr. Morris shares her unique insights from both her professional background in oncology and her personal journey as a survivor. Tune in for valuable information and support for those affected by breast cancer and their caregivers.

SURVIVINGBREASTCANCER.ORG

Attend a free virtual SurvivingBreastCancer.org event:
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

Follow us on Instagram
SurvivingBreastCancer.org: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/
Breast Cancer Conversations: https://www.instagram.com/breastcancerconversations/

About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

Support the show

Love the episode? Send us a text!

In this episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, I had the pleasure of speaking with Kathleen Moss, a nutritionist from Portland, Oregon, who shared her journey with breast cancer. Kathleen's story is both unique and insightful, as she was diagnosed with lobular breast cancer after a decade of screening and monitoring a shadow in her left breast. She detailed her experience with DCIS, the challenges of detecting lobular breast cancer, and the eventual discovery of invasive cancer following her mastectomy.

Kathleen provided an in-depth explanation of lobular breast cancer, highlighting its distinct characteristics and the difficulties in detection due to its non-lump formation. She also discussed the importance of advocacy and education, emphasizing the need for awareness around different breast cancer subtypes.

We delved into her surgical decisions, including her choice to forgo breast reconstruction in favor of a Goldilocks mastectomy, and the emotional and physical impacts of these choices. Kathleen's advocacy work with the Lobular Breast Cancer Alliance and her efforts to support and educate others through local advocacy teams were truly inspiring.

Kathleen also shared her personal experiences with her mother's breast cancer diagnosis and passing, and how it shaped her perspective on life and death. As we wrapped up, she updated us on her current health status and the ongoing surveillance for potential recurrence.

SURVIVINGBREASTCANCER.ORG

Attend a free virtual SurvivingBreastCancer.org event:
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

Follow us on Instagram
SurvivingBreastCancer.org: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/
Breast Cancer Conversations: https://www.instagram.com/breastcancerconversations/

About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

Support the show

Love the episode? Send us a text!

In this episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, I had the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Kohli, the Director of Breast Surgery at Monmouth Medical Center in New Jersey. We delved into the multifaceted journey of breast cancer survivorship, emphasizing the importance of treating the whole person, not just the disease.

Dr. Kohli shared her insights on the increasing incidence of breast cancer in younger women and the importance of focusing on the quality of life for long-term survivors. We discussed the initial overwhelming phase of diagnosis and treatment decisions, and how crucial it is to consider mental and emotional health alongside physical health.

One of the key topics we explored was the decision-making process regarding surgery options—lumpectomy, mastectomy, and double mastectomy.

We also touched on the long-term management of side effects, particularly lymphedema. Dr. Kohli explained what lymphedema is, its risks, and the importance of early detection and proactive management. She introduced the use of bioimpedance spectroscopy for early detection and shared her approach to monitoring and managing this condition.

SURVIVINGBREASTCANCER.ORG

Attend a free virtual SurvivingBreastCancer.org event:
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

Follow us on Instagram
SurvivingBreastCancer.org: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/
Breast Cancer Conversations: https://www.instagram.com/breastcancerconversations/

About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

Support the show

Love the episode? Send us a text!

I had the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Thomas Francel, a plastic surgeon specializing in breast reconstruction.

One of the key takeaways from our conversation was the importance of personalized care. Dr. Francel stressed that each patient's journey is unique, and decisions regarding reconstruction should be made based on individual circumstances, preferences, and medical needs. We also touched on the emotional aspects of recovery, sharing heartfelt stories of patients who found confidence and a sense of normalcy through successful reconstruction.

SURVIVINGBREASTCANCER.ORG

Attend a free virtual SurvivingBreastCancer.org event:
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

Follow us on Instagram
SurvivingBreastCancer.org: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/
Breast Cancer Conversations: https://www.instagram.com/breastcancerconversations/

About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

Support the show

Love the episode? Send us a text!

In this episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, I had the pleasure of speaking with Dianne Faure, an attorney, author, teacher, advanced Eden energy medicine practitioner, and massage therapist. Dianne shared her incredible journey of using energy medicine to manage and overcome various health issues, including her own diagnosis with inflammatory breast cancer.

Dianne's background is impressive. She has resolved multiple health issues such as chronic pain, allergies, rheumatoid arthritis, skin lupus, and connective tissue disease through the Eden Method.

In April 2021, Dianne was diagnosed with inflammatory breast cancer, a rare and aggressive form of the disease. She decided to document her experience and incorporate her energy medicine tools to manage the treatment and its side effects. This journey led her to publish her memoir and self-help book, "Cancer and Energy Medicine, A Healing Journey," in 2024.

During our conversation, Dianne explained the broad umbrella of energy medicine, which includes acupuncture, traditional Chinese medicine, yoga, and Reiki. She delved into her personal experience with breast cancer, from the initial diagnosis to the various treatments she underwent, including chemotherapy, mastectomy, and radiation.

Dianne also shared how she used energy medicine to navigate the side effects of chemotherapy and other treatments. She emphasized the importance of self-advocacy and understanding one's body, especially when dealing with a complex and often misunderstood condition like inflammatory breast cancer.

We discussed the concept of energy medicine in detail, including the nine energy systems, such as meridians, auras, and chakras. Dianne provided insights into how she assesses and balances these energy systems in her clients using techniques like energy testing and muscle testing.

Dianne's book is a valuable resource for cancer patients, survivors, and their loved ones. It offers practical tools and techniques to manage the physical and emotional challenges of cancer treatment. The book is available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and other major retailers.

This episode is a treasure trove of information for anyone interested in complementary approaches to cancer treatment and overall well-being. Dianne's story is a testament to the power of energy medicine and the importance of taking an active role in one's healing journey.

For more information, visit survivingbreastcancer.org, where you can sign up for our mailing list, make a donation, and explore the 400+ programs we offer each year.

Until next time, keep on thriving.

Support the show

Love the episode? Send us a text!

In this episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, I had the pleasure of speaking with S.L. Wisenberg, a self-described "one-breasted feminist" and author of "The Adventures of Cancer Bitch." S.L. shared her journey of being diagnosed with stage 2A breast cancer in 2007, undergoing a mastectomy and chemotherapy, and how she turned her experience into a powerful narrative through her writing.

We delved into S.L. Wisenberg’s inspiration for starting her blog, Cancer Bitch, and how writing became a therapeutic outlet for her. She discussed the importance of expressive writing and how it can be a tool for processing emotions and experiences, especially for those diagnosed with breast cancer. S.L. also shared practical advice for aspiring writers, including the use of writing prompts and the significance of revising one's work.

We touched on the broader themes of breast cancer culture, the disparities in treatment, and the political statements behind choosing or not choosing reconstruction. S.L. emphasized the importance of finding a supportive community, whether through writing groups, classes, or organizations like Gilda's Club.

Throughout our conversation, S.L.’s humor and candidness shone through, making it clear why her work resonates with so many. Her insights into balancing personal experiences with privacy, and the therapeutic nature of writing, provided valuable takeaways for our listeners.

Thank you, S.L., for sharing your story and wisdom with us. And to our listeners, remember that your experience is unique and worth sharing. Keep on thriving, and join us next time on Breast Cancer Conversations. For more information and to access our free programs, visit survivingbreastcancer.org/events.

Resources Mentioned:
https://www.slwisenberg.com/works.htm

https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/healingthroughart

Support the show

Love the episode? Send us a text!

Dr. Janet Abrahm reshapes the common perception of palliative care, emphasizing that it should not be viewed solely as end-of-life support, but rather as an essential form of supportive care that can significantly improve patient outcomes and quality of life when integrated early. With over 20 years of experience at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Dr. Abrahm is a leading expert in the palliative care needs of cancer patients and the author of the Comprehensive Guide to Supportive and Palliative Care for Patients with Cancer. She has been recognized with the prestigious Walther Cancer Foundation Supportive Oncology Award from the American Society of Clinical Oncology. Tune in to hear valuable insights from Dr. Abrahm about the importance of palliative care in the journey of cancer patients and their families.

https://janetabrahm.com/

Support the show

Love the episode? Send us a text!

Breast cancer is a deeply personal journey. As the landscape of breast cancer treatment evolves, understanding the surgical options available becomes crucial for patients navigating this challenging experience. In this episode, we speak with Dr. Yolanda Tamero, a breast surgical oncologist, who provides invaluable insights into the various surgical interventions available for those diagnosed with breast cancer. We talk about the different types of breast surgeries, the roles of various medical professionals involved, and the considerations that we should keep in mind when making decisions about our surgical treatment options.

Support the show