Advancing Cancer Treatment: Clinical Trials Explained

Living through Grief

In this episode of Cancer Unfiltered, guests Audrey McGinnis (president of Hugs Charities) and Amy Roberts (Cancer Alliance president and RBOI clinical social worker) discuss grief through personal experience and professional insight. Learn how grief can begin before death, affect people physically and mentally, and show up unpredictably through shifting emotions such as denial, anger, guilt, and eventual acknowledgement. And explore the importance of grace and community—family, faith, support groups, and even online resources—while encouraging listeners to be present with loved ones and not grieve alone. https://www.hugscharities.org/ [https://www.hugscharities.org/] https://www.rboi.com/ [https://www.rboi.com/] Subscribe to Cancer UNfiltered by CAMC at Canceralliancemc.org

Advancing Cancer Treatment: Clinical Trials Explained

What comes to mind when asked to join a clinical trial? Many fear being a ‘guinea pig,’ but Lisa McGuire, Oncology Director at HCA Ocala and West Marion, is here to change that perception. Join me as I talk with Lisa about what clinical trials actually are and why they can be helpful to not only the individual patient undergoing cancer therapy, but how they propel the treatment of cancer forward. Discover how clinical trials empower tomorrow's advancements and how - and why - you might want to participate in one.  https://www.hcafloridahealthcare.com/locations/ocala-hospital/specialties/oncology [https://www.hcafloridahealthcare.com/locations/ocala-hospital/specialties/oncology] Subscribe to Cancer UNfiltered by CAMC at Canceralliancemc.org

Cancers with Screenings

In this inspiring episode of Cancer Unfiltered, Amy Roberts hosts the courageous Barbra Brettman, who bravely shares her journey with endometrial cancer. After enduring months of postmenopausal bleeding and facing delays in care, Barbra discovered that Pap smears do not screen for endometrial cancer. Her story unfolds with resilience as she recounts the long waits for appointments, testing, and surgery, culminating in the unexpected shock of a cancer diagnosis. Despite the daunting news that the cancer had spread, Barbra faced her challenges head-on, undergoing surgery followed by external and internal radiation. Her narrative is a powerful testament to the importance of recognizing symptoms, utilizing available screenings, and advocating for oneself within the intricate healthcare system. Barbra also shines a light on the vital role of after-treatment support, revealing how joining a support group empowered her to navigate the emotional aftermath, embrace lasting changes, and continue her recovery journey with patience and self-compassion. Learn more about the counseling and support services available at https://www.rboi.com/home/cancer-support/rboi-support-groups/ [https://www.rboi.com/home/cancer-support/rboi-support-groups/] Subscribe to Cancer UNfiltered by CAMC at Canceralliancemc.org

The Palliative Care Continuum

Dr. Mery Lossada talks about hospice, palliative medicine, and end-of-life care, sharing her 17 years of experience in leading hospice teams and developing palliative care. She believes that the difference between hospice and palliative care is often not as big as it seems because both focus on easing pain, helping patients with long-term illnesses, and addressing all aspects of a person’s life, including tough talks and unanswered questions. Dr. Lossada suggests that patients should make advance directives and discuss hospice early on so they can decide when treatments aren’t worth the "return investment" anymore and change their goals without feeling like they’re giving up. She stresses the importance of talking in ways that suit each person, being honest about uncertain outcomes, and knowing the signs that someone is near the end of life. Listen in as Dr. Lossada  points out the challenges caregivers face and the benefits of getting palliative care involved early to help and train families.  Subscribe to Cancer UNfiltered by CAMC at Canceralliancemc.org

The Uplifting and Healing Nature of Nature!

In this last episode of Season 1 of Cancer Unfiltered, we welcome Lauren Debick, a certified forest therapy guide, who invites us to discover the transformative and healing power of nature. With a blend of scientific insights and personal experiences, she beautifully illustrates how nature nurtures our bodies, minds, and spirits. Lauren shares how mindful moments spent in and with nature can profoundly enhance your journey through cancer. This is an episode you truly won’t want to miss! https://www.mindfulwanderings.net/ [https://www.mindfulwanderings.net/] Subscribe to Cancer UNfiltered by CAMC at Canceralliancemc.org