On The Subject of Cancer: A Podcast by New England Cancer Specialists

Anna Mendes

Host Jess Fidalgo sits down with Anna Mendes, Rock Row Infusion Nurse Supervisor at New England Cancer Specialists (NECS), to discuss her two decades in oncology. Anna shares personal stories—including her father’s successful lymphoma treatment at NECS, which inspired her to pursue nursing and connect with people. She also details the critical role of infusion nursing, which requires clinical skill and high-level critical thinking to manage a wide array of treatment—from chemotherapy and immunotherapy to infusions for autoimmune disorders and chronic migraines. Anna highlights the profound changes she’s witnessed, including the shift toward personalized medicine and quick-injection treatments, and explains how her team fosters deep human connection and support for patients during their journeys. Open, honest, and at times both funny and vulnerable, Anna walks us through what life is like giving care.

Lizz Ottusch

This episode of On the Subject of Cancer features Lizz, a Portland-based data analyst who was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer at just 25. She shares about the role of a BRCA2 genetic mutation in her treatment, and the emotional and physical realities of navigating cancer at a young age. Liz reflects on everything from her chemo mullet, cold capping, and chemically induced menopause to the humor and absurdity that helped her cope, including the unexpectedly motivational lyrics of Pitbull Lizz also highlights the importance of community, especially through outdoor programs for young adults with cancer, and the critical support of care teams and mental health resources. Throughout the conversation, Liz emphasizes how cancer reshaped her perspective—letting go of small frustrations, embracing resilience, and focusing on what she can control. Her outlook is grounded in a simple but powerful mindset—she didn’t choose cancer, but she can choose how she faces it.

Kate DiConzo

A healthcare worker finds out she has breast cancer at age 33. Kate’s treatment takes her through five months of chemotherapy and a bilateral mastectomy with lymph node removal, but she’s able to avoid radiation therapy thanks to a newly published research study that her radiation oncologist from New England Cancer Specialists shares with her. Kate opens up about coping with cancer through humor, the challenge of switching from caregiver to patient, and how she maintained a positive mindset while allowing herself to feel all emotions throughout her treatment.

Trevor Maxwell with Dr. Devon Evans - Part II

In 2018, Trevor was diagnosed with stage 4 colorectal cancer. In this episode, a 2-parter, he talks about his journey from those surreal early days and what it means to be a survivor as a spouse, dad, and friend. Dr. Devon Evans has been there with Trevor from the beginning and gives his perspective on Trevor’s experience as well as insight into the current state of colorectal cancer treatment. Trevor also talks about his organization, Man Up To Cancer, and how it helps thousands of men and their families face cancer by sticking together. It’s a conversation that goes deep and gets to what’s real from a patient and doctor’s perspective.

Trevor Maxwell with Dr. Devon Evans - Part I

In 2018, Trevor was diagnosed with stage 4 colorectal cancer. In this episode, a 2-parter, he talks about his journey from those surreal early days and what it means to be a survivor as a spouse, dad, and friend. Dr. Devon Evans has been there with Trevor from the beginning and gives his perspective on Trevor’s experience as well as insight into the current state of colorectal cancer treatment. Trevor also talks about his organization, Man Up To Cancer, and how it helps thousands of men and their families face cancer by sticking together. It’s a conversation that goes deep and gets to what’s real from a patient and doctor’s perspective.