Let's Talk About Your Breasts

Dorothy Gibbons, CEO & Cofounder
Let's Talk About Your Breasts

The Rose Breast Center of Excellence presents Let's Talk About Your Breasts with Dorothy Gibbons. Each week, Dorothy hosts candid conversations with an array of people in the breast cancer community. From doctors and employees to donors and individuals who influence policy, you'll learn all there is to know about the disease which impacts so many women in our community.

  1. 6 DAYS AGO

    The Breast Cancer Experience Through a Husband’s Eyes

    Justin Kendrick, SVP and CEO of Memorial Hermann The Woodlands Medical Center, shares his story of supporting his wife through cancer treatment while managing his family and career. He highlights the power of vulnerability and community and how resources and support from organizations like Canopy played a crucial role in their journey. Additionally, Justin’s emphasis on gratitude and human connection underscores the profound impact of a strong support network. Key Questions Answered 1. What personal experiences have shaped Justin Kendrick's perspective on caregiving? 2. How does Justin Kendrick handle vulnerability during tough times? 3. What role does Canopy play in cancer support? 4. What is the IE Smart Systems Invitational and its purpose? 5. How did Justin approach the conversation about his wife's diagnosis with their children? 6. What specific challenges did Justin's family face during the cancer treatment process? 7. How did Justin manage logistical aspects of his wife's cancer treatment? 8. What impact do spontaneous gestures of support have, according to Justin? 9. What is the importance of regular health screenings according to Justin? 10. What are the broader implications of sharing personal struggles in a supportive community? Timestamped Overview 00:00 IE Smart Systems Invitational raises awareness, funds. 04:37 Friend's passing coincided with her early diagnosis. 07:48 Discussing cancer with kids; challenging and unprepared. 11:36 Supportive community, managing logistics, figuring it out. 14:00 Chemo creates overwhelming emotions, supportive community. 17:23 Aggressive cancer caught in time, advocate screenings. 19:53 Canopy involvement requires individual processing, caregiver patience. 24:39 Reach out; unexpected connections can be impactful. 28:29 Grateful for platforms to share our story. 31:20 Expressing gratitude, accessing resources, supporting children. 33:12 Appreciate efforts elevating life above cancer. Subscribe to Let’s Talk About Your Breasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, and wherever you get your podcasts. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    34 min
  2. FEB 4

    The Importance of Baseline Mammograms at Age 35: A Real-Life Testimony

    Dawn Elliott, Physician Liaison at The Rose, recounts her breast cancer journey with host Dorothy Gibbons. For years, Dawn's gynecologist emphasized the need for a baseline mammogram at 35 despite no family history. Once she turned 35, Dawn scheduled her regular gynecologist appointment, and he noticed a lump during her exam. This led to biopsies revealing stage zero cancer. Dawn's experience propelled her into community outreach, working at MD Anderson and the University of Chicago in cancer genetics and clinical trials. Her current role involves connecting with physicians to share ways The Rose can help patients and providing patient navigation insights. Key Questions Answered 1. How was Dawn Elliott diagnosed with breast cancer? 2.What role did Dr. James McBride play in Dawn's diagnosis? 3. What was the stage and nature of Dawn's cancer diagnosis? 4. Why did Dawn Elliott choose a modified radical mastectomy? 5. Did Dawn Elliott experience any reoccurrence of breast cancer? 6. What kind of work has Dawn been involved in within the breast cancer community? 7. How did Dawn Elliott transition to working at the Rose? 8.What type of support was significant to Dawn as a working single mother? Timestamped Overview 00:00 Gynecologist urges early baseline mammogram at 35. 03:44 Chose mastectomy, showed family living joyfully. 08:48 Dedicated to compassionate patient care and trials. 13:02 Advocated women's health: cancer to heart disease. 14:35 Left Methodist due to funding, joined Rose. 17:16 Wearing pink makes clients happy and smile. 21:00 Late arrival due to child's needs explained. 23:47 Faith and positivity combat breast cancer fears. Subscribe to Let’s Talk About Your Breasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, and wherever you get your podcasts. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    28 min
  3. JAN 30

    What You Need to Know About Screening Guidelines

    How can breast cancer screening guidelines affect women's healthcare access? Dorothy Gibbons discusses recent changes in breast cancer screening recommendations. JAMA confirmed that starting screenings at age 40 improves outcomes. Previously, the USPSTF advised screening starting at age 50, but now they recommend it for women aged 40 to 74, every other year. Dorothy advocates for annual screenings for more effective detection. She differentiates between routine and diagnostic mammograms, emphasizing their importance. USPSTF’s stance on breast density informs whether further tests like MRIs or ultrasounds are necessary. Insurance coverage hinges on these recommendations. The Affordable Care Act mandates insurance to cover preventive services, but legal challenges could affect this provision. Dorothy recalls a case where a woman had to pay out of pocket for an ultrasound, which ultimately saved her life. She urges listeners to understand these issues and their potential impact on women's health. Subscribe to Let's Talk About Your Breasts and consider supporting The Rose at therose.org. Key Questions Answered 1. Why is it important to start breast cancer screening at age 40? 2. What are the differences between screening mammograms and diagnostic mammograms? 3. What were the previous recommendations for the starting age of breast cancer screenings by the USPSTF? 4. What did the recent update from the USPSTF recommend regarding breast cancer screenings? 5. What is the importance of breast density information for women? 6. What does the USPSTF say about supplemental screening for women with dense breasts? 7. How does health insurance typically respond to the USPSTF recommendations? 8. What is the role of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) in preventive services like mammograms? Timestamped Overview 00:00 "Breast Cancer Screening: Start at 40" 03:16 Affordable Care Act: Legal Challenges See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    7 min
  4. JAN 28

    Breast Cancer Diagnosis at 33: Ivanna's Story of Perseverance

    How do couples navigate the tumultuous journey of unexpected medical crises? For Wayne and Ivanna, it began with Wayne's emergency retina surgery, quickly followed by Ivanna's shocking breast cancer diagnosis at age 33. They found solace and strength in each other, embracing health advocacy and community support. Through their ordeal, they transformed their challenges into a mission to inspire and educate others. Key Questions Answered 1. What health advocacy steps does Ivanna recommend for women? 2. How did Ivanna and Wayne handle the emotional and mental health aspects of dealing with illness? 3. How did Ivanna's initial breast cancer diagnosis occur, and what was her reaction? 4. What was Wayne's role and response in supporting Ivanna during her health challenges? 5. How did Ivanna and Wayne's health challenges affect their family plans and vacations? 6. What critical health decision did Ivanna make regarding her cancer treatment, and what was the outcome? 7. What was the significance of self-advocacy as highlighted by both Ivanna and the host Dorothy Gibbons? Timestamped Overview 00:00 Met beautiful woman while bartending one Sunday. 03:43 Date night mishap: fancy wine, no glassware. 08:17 Breast lump concerns repeatedly dismissed by doctors. 10:14 Got biopsy results earlier than expected. 13:10 Struggled with pregnancy and potential health issues. 16:29 Post-pregnancy breast changes important for diagnosis. 21:41 Seeking definitive guidance on radiation treatment necessity. 25:20 Concerned about children's fast-paced upbringing. 27:53 Vacation plan canceled due to emergency surgery. 29:49 Retinal detachment diagnosed; emergency surgery needed. 33:43 Not ready for breast cancer survivor group. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    37 min
  5. JAN 23

    Effective Cold Capping for Chemo Patients

    How does one turn a personal battle into a mission for societal good? Michelle Holland's experience with cancer has evolved into advocacy for early detection and patient support. As a cancer survivor working at Siemens Healthineers, she promotes advanced mammography for earlier diagnosis. Her story underscores the power of self-advocacy and resilience. Subscribe to Let’s Talk About Your Breasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, and wherever you get your podcasts. Key Questions Answered 1. What motivated Michelle Holland to share her personal story of battling cancer? 2. What is Michelle Holland's current profession, and how does it relate to her cancer journey? 3. Did Michelle Holland have any genetic markers for cancer? 4. How did Michelle Holland manage her time during chemotherapy? 5. What coping mechanism does Michelle Holland emphasize for those undergoing treatment? 6. How does Michelle Holland use her personal experience in her professional life? 7. What is cold capping, and why does Michelle Holland advocate for it? Timestamped Overview 00:00 Cancer treatment journey with surgery, chemo, complications. 04:09 Cold cap preserves hair during chemotherapy treatment. 06:38 Pre-chemo preparation involved hair-wetting. 11:10 Surgery affirmed my strength; I hosted Thanksgiving. 13:07 Excited: selling revolutionary mammogram machine at Siemens. 17:12 Sharing my story promotes women's health prioritization. 19:37 Visit Paxman website; insurance might cover cost. 23:47 Fundraiser supports hidden costs of treatment. 28:44 Machine improves comfort and tech accessibility during mammograms. 29:39 Get early mammogram; everyone's cancer is unique. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    32 min
4.8
out of 5
24 Ratings

About

The Rose Breast Center of Excellence presents Let's Talk About Your Breasts with Dorothy Gibbons. Each week, Dorothy hosts candid conversations with an array of people in the breast cancer community. From doctors and employees to donors and individuals who influence policy, you'll learn all there is to know about the disease which impacts so many women in our community.

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