Continue listening to Ira's story as host Sarah Paul continues their conversation, exploring the profound emotional support and life changes following his cancer diagnosis. In the second part of this episode, Ira opens up about the vast network of support that buoyed him through his treatment—from family and friends to medical teams and support groups. He emphasizes the invaluable role of CancerCare's individual counseling and support groups in providing specialized guidance and a sense of community. As Ira discusses his return to work and the adjustments he's made in his life and career ..read more

In the upcoming episode of Cancer Out Loud, host Sarah Paul, Senior Director of Social Work, sits down with Ira to delve deeper into his journey with stomach cancer. This first part of a special two-part series captures Ira's raw and detailed account from the onset of symptoms to the complexities of treatment and the life-altering changes he faced. Ira openly discusses his emotional rollercoaster, the physical toll of chemotherapy, and the support he received from healthcare professionals and CancerCare support programs. As he navigates through his diagnosis, multiple consultations, and s ..read more

In this episode of Cancer Out Loud, host and oncology social worker, Sarah Paul has a candid conversation with Jessica Engelhart, who shares her personal experience with colon cancer. Jessica discusses the challenges she faced during her treatment and recovery post-surgery, and the importance of mental health support during this time. She provides insights into how her background as a therapist helped her cope with the anger and anxiety that came with her diagnosis, utilizing coping techniques such as journaling, mindfulness and engaging with the Peloton community. Tune in to hear mo ..read more

Meet Malissa Matthews, a mother, a wife, a woman of faith. Late in 2022, Malissa was diagnosed with a very rare type of endometrial cancer and has been fighting for her life ever since. Tune in as Julia Manna, an oncology social worker at CancerCare, as she explores the challenges Malissa faced in her career due to treatment and the importance of having a supportive network. Malissa emphasizes the significance of maintaining a positive attitude and finding empowerment in the face of a terminal diagnosis. She encourages individuals to trust their voice and seek second opinions when necessary. M ..read more

November is National Family Caregivers Month. In this episode, we delve into the often-unseen world of cancer caregiving. Join us as we interview CancerCare’s Caregiver Program Coordinator, Dina Smith, LMSW, exploring the multifaceted challenges and emotional experiences faced by those caring for loved ones diagnosed with cancer. We discuss practical issues, emotional tolls, family dynamics, and the evolving nature of the caregiving role. This episode offers valuable insights and resources for cancer caregivers, shedding light on their vital role in the cancer experience. Tune in to gain a dee ..read more

In this episode, Mike and Nancy open up about the profound impact of losing their spouses and the unforeseen journey of healing that followed. Join us as they recount their experiences at CancerCare's Healing Hearts Bereavement Family Camp, a place they never imagined would play a pivotal role in their paths towards recovery. Joined by Kathy Nugent, Senior Director of Regional Programs, we hear about how Healing Hearts shaped Mike and Nancy's experience. They speak candidly about the challenges and nuances of blending their lives and supporting their young daughters through this complex proces ..read more

In the second part of this episode, oncology social worker Lucia continues her conversation around grief with two former members of her Bereavement Support Group, Jay and Lou. After being with their wives for upward of 30 years, they share their journeys of loss, moving forward and survival. Join us for an episode exploring the evolving nature of grief and the crucial role of a support system; a raw look at love, loss, and healing ..read more

Cancer Out Loud returns this summer to share new stories of hope and resilience. In the first part of this heartfelt episode, oncology social worker, Lucia, brings together two former members of her Bereavement Support Group, Susan and Mary, to share their experiences navigating grief and loss after the death of their husbands. They touch on the universality of loss and yet the profoundly personal journey of bereavement. With Lucia guiding their conversation, they delve into the complexities of healing, the importance of support systems, and the strength they found in unexpected places. Tune i ..read more

In July 2003, Shannan was diagnosed with a grade 2 glioma at the age of 31. In recognition of Brain Cancer awareness month, listen in as Shannan shares how she navigated multiple surgeries and a number of treatments since diagnosis. Approaching her 19 year "cancerversary", Shannan speaks with Charlotte Ference, a CancerCare oncology social worker, about how she found support, coped with treatment side effects, raised her daughter and ultimately found hope ..read more

Caryn Sullivan, founder of Pretty Wellness and author of “Happiness Through Hardship”, joins us today to share her experience as a two-time breast cancer survivor, currently navigating stage IV disease.  In a conversation with a CancerCare oncology social worker, Allison Moskowitz, LCSW, Caryn speaks openly and candidly about finding joy and gratitude in the little things, despite hardship. Learn more about Caryn here: www.prettywellness.com ..read more