Cancer, Smiles, and Sarcasm

Prayers and Predestination: Honest Talk on Faith & Cancer part 1

In this episode of Cancer, Smiles, and Sarcasm, hosts Tammy, Sunshine, and Matt have an open, heartfelt conversation about the difference between religion and personal faith and how those beliefs shape responses to cancer and might impact patients and nonnonpatients alike. They candidly discuss prayer, God’s sovereignty versus free will, personal stories of illness and loss, and how faith can bring both comfort and difficult questions—inviting listeners to reflect and join the conversation.

Triple-Positive and Unstoppable: One Woman’s Fight with HER2 Breast Cancer

Abby recounts her seven-year journey with triple‑positive (ER+/PR+/HER2+) breast cancer, covering diagnosis, aggressive treatments (TCHP chemo, trastuzumab/HER2‑targeted therapy, mastectomy, DIEP flap reconstruction, and later T‑DM1), and the challenges of recurrence and heart monitoring. She also shares practical self‑care strategies (cold caps, fasting, saunas, hyperbaric oxygen), the emotional toll of misinformation, the support she found in community activities like dragon boating and mentoring, and how the experience reshaped her priorities and outlook on life.

Estate Planning and Avoiding Probate: Protect Your Family Now

Host Tammy Tallant walks listeners through essential estate-planning steps to take before or after a cancer diagnosis, including wills, trusts, medical and financial powers of attorney, living wills, DNRs, deeds, business documents, and life insurance considerations. She explains why these documents matter, how they prevent costly probate or guardianship proceedings, and urges consulting an attorney (with herself as a Colorado attorney) to ensure your plan matches state law.

Expert therapist dives into death anxiety, palliative care, and other mental health topics.

In this episode, an expert medical social worker in oncology, explains psycho-oncology approaches like ACT and CBT, the difference between palliative care and hospice, and how death anxiety and PTSD can affect patients and caregivers. He discusses practical resources—support groups, advocacy in appointments, and when to seek specialized mental health care—plus guidance for caregivers on self-care and finding meaning during the cancer journey.

Live: Shit we all deal with daily! Science, annoyance, and myths

This live episode addresses common issues everyone might deal with such as sleep struggles, menopause, decreased motivation, and finances--with practical tips (cooling blankets, BedJet, supplements). Scientific approaches are discussed. The host also pushes back on common myths and fads—ivermectin, apricot seeds and detox foot pads—urging listeners to check sources and consult doctors. Tammy also speaks candidly about her struggles with metastatic (stage 4) estrogen‑positive breast cancer (with lung and bone involvement) after reconstructive surgery and those daily realities—24/7 oxygen, medications, and monitoring.