The Cancering Show Dr. Jennifer Young Pierce

In this episode of The Cancering Show, Dr. JYP discusses the importance of cancer patients taking extra precautions during summer activities. She explains the sensitivity of chemotherapy patients' skin to sunburns and advises using mineral sunscreen and protective clothing. Dr. JYP also highlights the risks of swimming in certain types of water, the importance of proper head and hair care, and the need for hydration and avoiding strenuous activities in the heat. She offers other practical tips for those who are traveling, gardening, fishing and picnicking. Don’t worry; cancer patients can still enjoy most summer activities as long as they follow a few simple guidelines.


3 Key Takeaways


1. Sun Protection for Cancer Patients: Chemotherapy can make the skin more sensitive, increasing the risk of sunburn. Cancer patients should use a sensitive-skin, nontoxic sunscreen and wear SPF-protective clothing and hats to avoid sun damage, especially on areas such as the scalp and the tops of feet.
2. Hydration and Heat Protection: Cancer patients undergoing treatment are at a higher risk for dehydration and heat stroke. It's crucial to stay hydrated by consuming water and electrolyte replacement drinks, taking breaks in the shade, and watching for signs of fatigue. To prevent complications, avoid strenuous activities in extreme heat.
3. Food Safety for Cancer Patients: Chemotherapy can weaken the immune system, making cancer patients more susceptible to foodborne illnesses. Patients should avoid raw oysters and uncooked seafood, and other foods like cold cuts or mayonnaise-based salads that could harbor harmful bacteria, especially in a picnic setting. Prioritize fresh, well-cooked foods to reduce the risk of infections and illness.



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Thanks for listening to The Cancering Show, brought to you by USA Health Mitchell Cancer Institute.
Please subscribe, rate and review The Cancering Show wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts.

USA Health Mitchell Cancer Institute
The Cancering Show is brought to you by USA Health Mitchell Cancer Institute. MCI is a cutting-edge cancer research and treatment center built to fight cancer smarter in Mobile and Baldwin counties in Alabama. Our researchers and clinicians focus daily on the struggle against cancer, serving a potential catchment population of more than 4.1 million people, with a singular focus of advancing cancer diagnosis, treatment, and prevention throughout the Gulf Coast and beyond with science, technology and hope.

Want to know more about the Mitchell Cancer Institute?
Visit us at usamci.com or search for us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Mitchell Cancer Institute is a member of USA Health.
To learn more about all of USA Health hospitals, clinics and services, visit usahealthsystem.com.

In this episode, Fred Neubauer, a stage 4 cholangiocarcinoma survivor, shares his inspiring journey with Dr. JYP. Fred’s rare bile duct cancer was discovered during imaging for a kidney stone. Facing a challenging diagnosis, he explored advanced treatments, including chemotherapy, radiation, and innovative clinical trials, which helped shrink his tumors. Despite the difficulties, Fred remains hopeful and proactive in managing his cancer. Dr. JYP emphasizes the significance of biomarker testing, which helped Fred access treatments tailored specifically to his cancer's characteristics. Fred discusses his advocacy work, highlighting how helpful it is for patients to access their medical records easily and participate in clinical trials to find the best possible care and advance the science for others.
Throughout the episode, Fred talks about maintaining a positive outlook and staying active in his hobbies, such as DIY projects and car restoration. The episode highlights how personal determination, along with medical advancements, can transform cancer treatment, providing hope and improving the quality of life for those diagnosed with rare cancers.



3 Episode Key Takeaways


1. Importance of Biomarker Testing: Fred Neubauer's conversation with Dr. JYP highlights the crucial role of biomarker testing in accessing targeted therapies that have significantly impacted his treatment for cholangiocarcinoma, a rare bile duct cancer. He emphasizes the need for cancer patients to pursue such testing to tailor treatments specifically to their genetic cancer profiles, which can lead to more effective disease management and better outcomes.
2. Value of Clinical Trials: The episode underscores the value of participating in clinical trials, especially for patients with rare and advanced stage cancers. Clinical trials offer access to the latest treatments and technologies, such as histotripsy and other targeted therapies that are not yet widely available but can be life-saving.
3. Support and Advocacy: Fred Neubauer's journey from receiving a dire prognosis to becoming an expert in his own care and a patient advocate serves as a powerful testament to the importance of support, education, and advocacy. His story inspires those who are Cancering to be proactive in their healthcare, seek out resources like the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation, and engage in community and mentorship programs to improve their health and quality of life.



Fred's Resources
https://www.ciitizen.com/
https://www.genomicfocus.com/
https://cholangiocarcinoma.org/

 
fredneub@bellsouth.net
 
 
Show Overview


02:00 Fred, a five-year bile duct cancer survivor, shares his journey.
06:13 Stage 4 cancer, but tumors shrink.
08:02 Fred insists on biomarker testing for targeted treatment.
15:41 Genomic Focus helps find cancer clinical trials.
22:25 Fred values relationships with doctors and staff.
29:27 Fred's shares his hobbies as a DIYer, and celebrates his wife's birthday.
 

In the episode, Dr. JYP delves into the heart of living with, and beyond, brain cancer with Michelle Matthews. Michelle shares her husband Matt's journey with glioblastoma and how they remained hopeful throughout the diagnosis and treatment. Despite the challenges, they cherished every moment together and found solace in support from their loved ones and community. Michelle also stresses the importance of self-care and the role of caregivers in cancer treatment and survivorship. Dr. JYP emphasizes the significance of shared experiences and compassionate care in the cancer journey. Ultimately, the episode celebrates the tenacity of the human spirit in the face of cancer's challenges and offers support and guidance to those who are navigating the difficult terrain of cancer caregiving and grief.



3 Episode Key Takeaways


1. Cherish Every Moment and Seek Support:
Michelle Matthews emphasizes the importance of valuing the time spent with loved ones, appreciating every shared experience, whether big or small, and the significance of leaning on support systems while cancering. She shares her personal story, highlighting how focusing on quality of life and support, including from strangers, helped her and Matt navigate his terminal glioblastoma diagnosis. It's a poignant reminder of the power of community and the strength found in togetherness.

2. Navigating Grief with Self-Care and Connection:
The episode underscores the need for caregivers to take time for personal grief and recovery. Michelle reflects on her own coping mechanisms, such as dining with friends and journaling, and advises caregivers to watch out for negativity online. She found solace in connecting with others who faced similar losses, reinforcing that finding relatable support can be crucial for emotional well-being.

3. Advocacy and Informed Treatment Choices:
Michelle's story conveys a powerful message about patient advocacy and informed decision-making. Faced with a terminal diagnosis and limited treatment options, Michelle and Matt consulted with their beloved oncologist, who encouraged them to explore treatment at Duke University. The narrative encourages second opinions and clinical trials, highlighting the importance of staying informed and being proactive.



Show Overview

02:15 Unexpected love story blossoms from a workplace friendship.
03:39 Matt's lifelong connection to newspapering
07:28 Devastating news: brain tumor, possible glioblastoma
11:39 Michelle admires Matt's courage during his illness.
16:14 His oncologist encourages seeking second opinions.
19:53 Indulging in the little things improves quality of life.
24:12 Weekly dinners with a friend helps during tough times.
29:26 Avoid taking on others' emotional burdens.
32:17 Michelle felt lucky to work from home during Matt's treatment.
34:33 Michelle shares her reflections on grief.
37:30 Michelle and Matt's love story, and advice for others.
 

In this episode, Dr. JYP talks with licensed clinical social worker Stephanie Broussard about the importance of patients sharing their wishes regarding palliative and end-of-life care. Broussard stresses the need to include a social worker as part of the cancer care team from the point of diagnosis to address emotional distress. She explains that palliative care, which focuses on relief from the symptoms and stress of a serious illness, is different from hospice care, which is a Medicare benefit and service for those with a terminal diagnosis.
Broussard shares why it's vital for everyone, even young adults, to have a plan for the person who will make medical decisions on their behalf. She stresses the importance of having conversations about what matters most to us in our care, especially when we are faced with a serious illness. Dr. JYP shares her own wishes to encourage listeners to think and talk about their end-of-life care goals and intentions. They conclude the episode with the agreement that advance care planning is “an act of love.”



3 Episode Key Takeaways


1. The Crucial Role of Advanced Care Planning:
Stephanie Broussard underscores the importance of advanced care planning as a necessary step to empower both patients and their families in making informed decisions regarding end-of-life care. This is an ongoing conversation that centers around identifying personal goals, values, and priorities, ensuring that one's wishes are respected and that these discussions are recognized as acts of love that unite families during challenging times.
2. Distinguishing Palliative Care and Hospice:
Broussard clarifies that while hospice care is a form of palliative care designed for individuals with a terminal prognosis of six months or less, palliative care in itself is broader and can benefit anyone with a serious illness, regardless of their stage of disease or age. The conversation with Dr. Jennifer Young Pierce delves into how palliative care encompasses the management of emotional, physical, and spiritual distress, aiming not just to alleviate symptoms but to improve overall quality of life for patients and their families.
3. The Role of Social Workers and the Need for Comprehensive Palliative Care:
The episode explores the specialized role and training required for social workers within the domain of palliative care, with an emphasis on the necessity for a more comprehensive palliative care intervention. There's a discussion about how reactive versus proactive integration of social work can affect outcomes, advocating for a holistic approach where every team member, including social workers, is involved from the beginning to manage symptoms, provide support to caregivers, and address psychosocial needs.



Show Overview


01:21 Palliative care explained
04:12 Social worker Stephanie Broussard addresses emotional suffering in patients.
11:34 Different roles for social workers involved in palliative care
15:13 Hospice focuses on a person’s quality of life.
20:18 Advance care planning is an ongoing process.
21:16 Importance of advance directives and conversations with family
25:21 Discussing end-of-life care and medical power of attorney
28:45 Broussard shares insights on palliative care and planning
 

In this episode, Dr. JYP talks with Gina Gregory, a breast cancer survivor and a second-time Cancering Show guest. Gina shares her journey five years after her initial diagnosis, discussing the difficulties of living with cancer and the side effects from treatment, such as receding gums and ringing ears. She is open about the challenges, as well as the strength and faith she gained along the way.
Gina offers advice on how survivors can manage their health after cancer, including eating a balanced diet (and finding a middle ground with organic foods), and making time for regular workouts. Having celebrated five years of survivorship, she continues to take her medication and stay healthy. She also highlights the importance of finding support, maintaining humor and connecting with others.

Hear More From Gina Gregory
Cancering Show EP5: Warrior Princess Gina Gregory




3 Episode Key Takeaways


1. Embracing Survivorship with a Balanced Approach:
Gina Gregory shares her journey as a five-year cancer survivor, emphasizing the long-term nature of Cancering. She touches on the importance of a balanced diet that isn’t solely focused on “natural” foods, and the need for regular workouts. Survivorship is a process, she says, involving a combination of medical follow-ups, maintaining a positive mindset, and making wise lifestyle choices.
2. The Power of Community and Openness:
Gina openly discusses the challenges she faced during and after her treatment, including unexpected side effects, such as receding gums and tinnitus, and her coping strategies, such as weightlifting to build strength and humorous storytelling for emotional resilience. She also underscores the value of having shared her experiences on Facebook Live, which provided catharsis and engaged her community. Gina and Dr. JYP also discuss the necessity of staying connected with healthcare professionals and support networks to fend off online misinformation about cancer and survivorship.
3. Advancements in Cancer Care and Long-Term Impact:
The latest advancements in cancer treatments, such as immunotherapy, have significantly improved the outlook for patients and the quality of survivorship. Gina expresses gratitude for the care she received at the USA Health Mitchell Cancer Institute and speaks about her current activities, including her role on the Mobile City Council. This episode underscores how cancer survivors can find strength and a new perspective on life during the journey.
 
Show Overview


02:23 Adjusting and forgetting: The new normal emerges
05:05 Surviving cancer treatment, dealing with side effects
06:33 Sharing the Cancering journey publicly
11:40 Post-diagnosis focus on healthy eating and exercise
15:04 Experiencing side effects, but managing well
16:43 Diagnosis and treatment, facing the whirlwind and moving forward
19:27 Immunotherapy and new medications
24:36 Staying vigilant, remaining positive and trusting the professionals
27:30 Supportive colleagues during the illness
29:24 Valuable advice for cancer patients




Never Miss an Episode
Please subscribe to The Cancering Show

Want us to deliver The Cancering Show to your email inbox?
Let us know by contacting Dr. JYP at cancering.com.

Thanks for listening to The Cancering Show, brought to you by USA Health Mitchell Cancer Institute.
Please subscribe, rate and review The Cancering Show wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts.

USA Health Mitchell Cancer Institute
The Cancering Show is brought to you by USA Health Mitchell Cancer Institute. MCI is a cutting-edge cancer research and treatment center built to fight cancer smarter in Mobile and Baldwin counties in Alabama. Our researchers and clinicians focus daily on the struggle against cancer, serving a potential catchment population of more than 4.1 million people, with a singular focus of advancing cancer diagnosis, treatment, and prevention throughout the Gulf Coast and beyond with science, tec

In this Cancering episode, Dr. JYP is joined by oncologist Dr. Ayesha Munir as they tackle the complex and crucial topic of breast cancer and health disparities. Together, they explore the impact of socioeconomic status on health inequalities, the challenges faced by different racial groups in accessing breast cancer screening, and the concerning prevalence of triple-negative breast cancer among African American women. 
They discuss the research into the biological underpinnings of triple negative breast cancer and the promising developments in immunotherapy. This is an episode you won't want to miss as we unravel the layers of breast cancer, health disparities, and the path forward toward equitable healthcare access and improved outcomes.
 
3 Episode Key Takeaways


1. Health disparities significantly impact breast cancer outcomes and require national-level solutions and equitable healthcare access. African American women have a higher risk of triple negative breast cancer, highlighting potential biological differences and the impact of systemic racism. 
2. Immunotherapy shows promising results in improving outcomes for aggressive triple negative breast cancer. 
3. Stress and cortisol levels may impact disease biology, particularly in the Black population. 



Show Overview

01:00 Focus on immunotherapy breakthroughs.
04:35 Interest in health disparities, focusing on breast cancer.
07:53 Health disparities awareness and support for communities.
13:02 Improving outcomes amid breast cancer disparities.
16:36 Research suggests biological differences, with impact from systemic racism.
20:01 Progress in breast cancer treatment includes immunotherapy.
21:08 Immunotherapy improves outcomes for triple negative breast cancer patients.
32:15 Importance of providing financial relief for patients.