Survivors’ Guide to Menopause and Cancer.

Episode 25

Luminate Medical is a technology-led services company working to make cancer care more human-centered by addressing the often-overlooked aspects of treatment: side effects, clinic burden, and the emotional toll on patients and families. In this episode, Cathy O'Boyle discusses the company's innovative solutions and their patient-centered approach to cancer care.Cathy O'Boyle is the Head of Healthcare Services at Luminate Medical. She holds a BSc in Optometry from TU Dublin and a Master's in Clinical Vision Science from Ulster University. After working as an optometrist, Cathy joined the Bioinnovate program at the University of Galway (affiliated with Stanford's Biodesign program), where she discovered her passion for combining technology with clinical expertise. She's been with Luminate Medical for over two years. Luminate: Get Cancer Care at Home [https://www.luminatemed.com/] Luminate Medical's top priority for future innovation is infertility prevention, a significant side effect of cancer treatment affecting both men and women. The team recognizes cancer now affects younger patients and that fertility impacts psychological well-being alongside physical health. "The most important piece is truly listening. When you can sit in front of a patient and let them give feedback and tell the story in their own words—that's the most important bit." "We're not just focused on survival; we want to give people back their normal day-to-day things—being at home, being able to type your email, go for a 5K run, those things."

Episode 24 Reflexology with Michelle Greenan Hutton

Michelle Hutton talks to me about the practice of reflexology and other complementary treatments, exploring how they can support women going through menopause and cancer recovery. Reflexology is a complementary therapy that involves applying gentle, targeted pressure to specific points on the feet, hands, or ears. It is based on the principle that these reflex points correspond to different organs, systems, and areas of the body. The practice has roots going back thousands of years and shares similarities with acupuncture and acupressure.Key Takeaways 1. Reflexology is non-invasive and safe — It can be used alongside conventional treatments like HRT or cancer therapies without conflict. 2. The benefits go beyond the physical — Much of the value lies in the dedicated time for rest, relaxation, and feeling cared for during a difficult life transition. 3. It's a popular choice among cancer patients — Many cancer support centres now offer reflexology as part of their complementary care programmes. 4. Individual experiences vary — While many women report meaningful relief from symptoms, reflexology works differently for everyone and is best viewed as one tool within a broader self-care approach. 5. Complementary therapies empower women — Exploring options like reflexology can help women feel more in control of their wellbeing during menopause and cancer recovery.

Episode 23. Improve Your Cognitive Functioning after Cancer with Dr. Deirdre Connolly

In this episode, Dr. Deirdre Connolly, a leading researcher in cancer survivorship and cognitive health, discusses chemo brain, cognitive changes after cancer treatment, and practical management strategies. Learn about assessment methods, interventions, and how survivors can regain confidence and clarity. https://www.canwork.ie

Episode 22: Lighten the Load: Set Intentions for 2026

I host this episode and it focuses on self-reflection and personal growth, guiding participants through a series of exercises aimed at exploring emotions, physical well-being, relationships, and work-life balance. The session emphasizes the importance of setting intentions for the upcoming year, encouraging individuals to let go of burdens and embrace self-compassion.

Episode 21: Hike Through Menopause with the Hike Psych Cara Byrne

In this conversation, Karen Kruger and Cara Byrne explore the intersection of psychotherapy and hiking therapy, particularly in the context of women's health during menopause. Cara shares her journey from marketing to psychotherapy, emphasizing the importance of life experience in understanding clients. They discuss the unique benefits of hiking therapy, including the ability to express emotions and the therapeutic relationship's significance. The conversation also delves into the emotional and psychological challenges women face during menopause, including anxiety and feelings of loss of identity, and how therapy can empower individuals to regain control over their lives. In this conversation, Cara Byrne and Karen Kruger explore the emotional and psychological challenges faced by women during menopause and cancer treatment. They discuss the importance of understanding emotional communication, the impact of neurodivergence, and the significant changes in relationships during this period. The conversation emphasizes the need for self-compassion, effective communication, and building support networks. They also address body image issues and the importance of recognizing unspoken challenges that women face. Ultimately, they provide practical advice for maintaining mental health and well-being during these transitions. You can find Cara here. https://www.instagram.com/thehikepsych/