Talking Blood Cancer Leukaemia Foundation

In this episode of the Talking Blood Cancer podcast, Kate Arkadieff invites Theresa Webb to share her deeply personal journey with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and her daughter's battle with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. Kate begins the conversation by acknowledging the tough reality faced by patients and their families.
Theresa opens up about the complexities of managing her own health alongside her role as a mother and business owner after being diagnosed with blood cancer. The discussion sheds light on the immense pressure she faced advocating for her daughter's health, how she had to streamline her life to cope with the demands of treatment, and the financial and emotional strain it placed on her. Despite these challenges, Theresa speaks to the resilience and strength displayed by both her and her daughter Summer, transitioning from paediatric to adult medical care and overcoming significant obstacles.
Highlighting the often-overlooked aspects of life after cancer treatment, Theresa discusses her post-treatment physical and emotional struggles, including her physical shutdown and the subsequent formation of her mental management business. She also reflects on the changes in her own identity post-diagnosis and the importance of self-care. Through her story, Theresa provides invaluable insights into the importance of appreciating the small things in life and the supportive role played by her father and daughters during the most challenging times.

Kate and Theresa converse about the intricate details of their treatment experiences, the impact on family dynamics, and the necessity of support networks. They also delve into the lessons learned and the wisdom gained through their cancer journeys.

The Talking Blood Cancer Podcast is brought to you by the Leukaemia Foundation and is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/network

In this enlightening episode of the Talking Blood Cancer podcast, host Maryanne Skarparis welcomes Perry Judd, a remarkable blood cancer survivor with a tale of resilience and triumph.
Throughout the episode, Perry provides an in-depth look at his personal ordeal with blood cancer, recalling a harrowing infection that led to a transformative health journey. His narrative details a demanding transplant, aggressive chemotherapy, and the formidable side effects that followed, offering listeners an insider’s perspective on the challenges faced during treatment.
They explore Perry's out-of-body experiences and his battle with communication barriers and pain management. They shine a light on the significant role alternative medicine and his employer's support played in his recovery. Perry's story is one of connection and endurance, highlighting the power of goal-setting while grappling with serious illness.
Listeners will be inspired by Perry's remarkable return to competitive sports, winning multiple medals in cycling and triathlon events, and his ambition to participate in future competitions. His message is one of hope and encouragement, aiming to motivate others with similar diagnoses to believe in their strength and potential.
His insights extend beyond his sports achievements, delving into the gratitude he feels for his family, friends, and access to quality healthcare that steered him through the delicate post-transplant phase. Perry's gradual return to his job at Queensland Health and his ascent to a leadership role demonstrate his commitment to using his experience to benefit others in his professional capacity.
Finally, Perry shares heartfelt advice for those newly diagnosed with blood cancer: to treat oneself with kindness, trust in the circle of support, and remember that this challenging phase does not define who you are. His story leaves a lasting impression on the importance of attitude, love, and trust in overcoming leukaemia.

The Talking Blood Cancer Podcast is brought to you by the Leukaemia Foundation and is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/network

In this episode of Talking Blood Cancer, host Kate Arkadieff welcomes Tahli Batkilin, who bravely shares her personal battle and subsequent victory over blood cancer.
Tahli takes us through the moment she first received her lymphoma diagnosis amidst the chaos of lockdown and running her home baking business. The confusion of initial misdiagnoses escalating to the eventual life-changing news is recounted with raw honesty. Tahli's determination and resilience shine through as she explains how she continued to push for answers when treatments didn't seem to be working, embodying the critical message of being your own health advocate.
Tahli speaks to the heart-wrenching challenges she faced, not just in dealing with her illness but also in adapting her role as a mother during this turbulent time. From the intimacy of family dinners disrupted by grave news to the everyday act of walking her children to school, the juxtaposition of normalcy and the fight for life is poignant.
Tahli also discusses the physical and emotional impact of traditional chemotherapy, the process and her experience with innovative CAR T cell therapy, and the significance of minimal side effects in comparison to her previous treatments. Her remission is celebrated, and the conversation shifts to the transformative perspective on life that arises from enduring such a profound personal journey.
The discussion concludes with a reflection on the unpredictable nature of life and an emphasis on recognizing the value in every moment. Tahli's story is a powerful testament to the strength of the human spirit, the importance of supportive care, and the advances in blood cancer treatment.
The Talking Blood Cancer Podcast is brought to you by the Leukaemia Foundation and is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/network

In this inaugural episode of the Talking Blood Cancer podcast, our distinguished host Kate Arkadieff welcomes Peter Geary, a resolute myeloma patient and advocate, to share his profound journey since being diagnosed with asymptomatic myeloma in 2018. The episode begins with Peter recounting the moment of diagnosis and the subsequent "watch and wait" approach that marked the early days of his experience with blood cancer.
Peter's story provides a candid exploration of the evolution of his disease 18 months post-diagnosis, the treatments he underwent—including chemotherapy and an autologous stem cell transplant—and the life adjustments he has had to make. Kate and Peter engage in a thoughtful dialogue, covering the physical and psychological repercussions of his treatments, strategies for side effect management, the significance of fitness, and the preparations necessary for a stem cell transplant.
Also tapping into Peter's laudable involvement with advocacy groups, his deep-seated commitment to the cause of equitable healthcare access, and the necessity of standardised care protocols, particularly in regional Australia. This episode testimony from Peter underscores the vital role of a resilient mindset, the support of loved ones, and a proactive approach to one's healthcare journey in navigating the complexities of living with blood cancer.
Listeners also gain insights into the practical aspects of recovery, from maintaining a healthy weight to navigating daily activities while managing side effects from ongoing treatments. Moreover, the episode features enriching discussions on the support services essential in crafting a harmonious recovery environment and the transformative power of exercise in maintaining a semblance of normalcy in life.
Kate concludes the session by expressing appreciation for Peter's wisdom and contributions, affirming the episode's provision of valuable guidance for anyone navigating a blood cancer diagnosis or supporting someone in that battle.

The Talking Blood Cancer Podcast is brought to you by the Leukaemia Foundation and is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/network

In this special Christmas wrap-up episode of Talking Blood Cancer, hosts Kate and Maryanne reflect on the stories and conversations shared in Season 3 of the podcast. 
 We touch on various topics including feelings of happiness, managing fatigue, coping with infections, and pondering the essence of time. The festive season is a significant time, one that it can be both a time of celebration and reflection. We offer you wishes of love, health, and happiness for the upcoming year.
 This is a time  to focus on the love that surrounds you, and to seek support and guidance if needed. Remember the support services offered by the Leukaemia Foundation are always available, and we invite you to explore the online blood cancer support service available on our website. 
 We are looking forward to the upcoming season in 2024, so stay tuned for the release of a new series in March.
 To access the Leukaemia Foundation’s support services or to find more information, call 1800 620 420.
 The Talking Blood Cancer Podcast is brought to you by the Leukaemia Foundation and is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/network 

In this episode of the Talking Blood Cancer podcast, host Vanessa is joined by guest Glenys Davidson to share her journey with acute myeloid leukaemia candidly. 
 
Vanessa reflects on the observation of people navigating through treatment at the facility where she is based, setting the stage for a real, raw conversation about the impact of blood cancer on patients and their support networks.
 
Glenys highlights the importance of a positive attitude and familial backing during challenging times, underscoring the emotional and practical support she received from her community. The discussion delves into the specifics of Glenys' treatment, including the physical and emotional toll of chemotherapy, the search for a suitable stem cell donor, and the profound impact of hair loss. The episode also touches on the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, which impacted treatment procedures and visitation protocols.
 
Further, Glenys emphasises the significance of robust support services for patients and the need for healthcare facilities to communicate the availability of such resources effectively. The conversation concludes with Glenys stressing the importance of social interaction and the realisation of the power of communication during difficult times.
 
The Talking Blood Cancer Podcast is brought to you by the Leukaemia Foundation and is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/network