The Cancer Sucks Podcast

Adrienne Finch and Jay Williams
  • 5.0 (5)
  • Medicine
  • Updated Weekly

Cancer SUCKS, but this show doesn't! And your life doesn't have to either. Welcome to the Cancer Sucks Podcast. I'm your host Jay Williams, and I’m currently fighting pancreatic cancer and talking about ALL of it — the good, the bad, the confusing, and the occasionally ridiculous. Whether you’re a survivor, caregiver, or just curious about that big scary “C” word, this isn’t a downer—it's an empowering pep talk with a dash of humor. Get inspired, get informed, and remember—cancer sucks, but you don’t have to.

  1. 4d ago

    Overcoming Cancer in First Responders: Patrick Long's Inspiring Journey and the Decon Project

    Join us as Patrick Long shares his powerful story of battling lymphoma while also leading a nonprofit dedicated to protecting firefighters from cancer. This episode highlights the importance of preventative health, the role of community, and innovative solutions like sauna use to reduce long-term risks in high-exposure professions. In this episode: Patrick's personal cancer diagnosis and treatment journey The mission and activities of the Decon Project The connection between firefighting chemical exposure and cancer risk The role of sauna therapy in detoxification and prevention Practical steps for firefighters and first responders to reduce long-term health risks How community support and advocacy can make a difference The importance of taking ownership of health and seeking second opinions Resources for implementing safety practices and wellness initiatives in fire stations For more CANCER SUCKS PODCAST ⬇ Follow us on INSTAGRAM for daily updates, laughs, and raw behind-the-scenes moments! Donate to Help Jay Fight Pancreatic Cancer Watch the show on YOUTUBE Follow the CANCER SUCKS Playlist! Find ALL our links in one place, here! Follow Adrienne Follow Parker For more about DECON PROJECT🚒⬇ The Decon Project Website The Decon Project Instagram Salus Saunas (firefighter wellness saunas) FLAME Decon Soap For booking and other business inquiries: cancersuckspodcast@gmail.com 00:00 - Welcome and introduction to Patrick Long and his story 02:20 - The mission behind the Decon Project and Patrick’s motivation 09:00 - Patrick’s cancer diagnosis: follicular and diffuse large B cell lymphoma 14:00 - The significance of chemical exposure in firefighting and long-term health risks 23:00 - Emerging treatments like CAR T cell therapy 30:00 - The impact of shift work, sleep deprivation, and toxins on firefighter health 40:00 - Saunas as a tool for detoxification and reducing cancer risk 45:00 - Practical tips for firefighters to improve health and safety practices 50:00 - How community, faith, and personal advocacy shape Patrick’s outlook 52:00 - How to get involved with the Decon Project and spreading health awareness

  2. Jul 14

    I’M OFFICIALLY STARTING DARAXONRASIB - Stage 4 Pancreatic Cancer Medication Breakthrough Update

    This week, Jay received HUGE news… he is officially cleared to start taking Daraxonrasib, the new breakthrough pancreatic cancer medication that has, up until now, had a lot of red tape and been hard to get cleared for. So hit pause on the sad playlist, because this episode is about real hope, breakthrough drugs, and the kind of medical miracles that make you want to do a happy dance — even if you’re sweating through California summer. Today, Jay Williams shares his rollercoaster journey with a game-changing pancreatic cancer drug and how it’s giving him a new lease on life.In this episode: Jay dives into the journey of finally getting the groundbreaking drug Daraxonrasib after months of red tape and waiting games How a nerve block turned his terrible back pain into sweet dreams—literally The science behind KRAS, the “stuck accelerator” of cancer, and how this new drug targets it The comparison between chemo’s indiscriminate attack and targeted therapies like Daraxonrasib The importance of self-advocacy and finding doctors who listen (because not all heroes wear scrubs) Why pancreatic cancer diagnosis is often late, and how early detection could change the game The hope for combination therapies—immunotherapy plus targeted drugs—and the future of cancer care Interested in being a guest? Drop us a line at cancersuckspodcast@gmail.com. We love sharing your journey!Remember: Cancer might suck, but your life doesn’t have to. Keep fighting, keep laughing, and keep advocating! (this update was recorded on 7/10/26) For more CANCER SUCKS PODCAST ⬇ Follow us on INSTAGRAM for daily updates, laughs, and raw behind-the-scenes moments! Donate to Help Jay Fight Pancreatic Cancer Watch the show on YOUTUBE Follow the CANCER SUCKS Playlist! Find ALL our links in one place, here! Follow Adrienne Follow Parker For booking and other business inquiries: cancersuckspodcast@gmail.com 00:29 I'm Starting Daraxonrasib! 05:05 Let's talk about Daraxonrasib! Red Tape 06:50 History of Daraxonrasib 09:54 Funny Story About Getting The Drug 17:16 Daraxonrasib First Impressions 17:42 Daraxonrasib vs Chemotherapy - What's The Difference? 21:37 Can Daraxonrasib Cure Pancreatic Cancer? 21:42 Treatment Outlook and Next Steps 23:22 Early Detection and Insurance Barriers 23:46 The Choice Between Quality of Life or Continuing Treatment 24:39 Daraxonrasib's Bright Future 30:08 Living With Cancer and Self-Advocacy 32:33 Hope, Research, and New Treatments 34:59 Finding the Right Doctor 37:55 Knowledge Is Power 39:22 Community, Gratitude, and Staying Positive 43:01 Where to Find Us

  3. Jul 6

    3 Years of Pancreatic Cancer, Bad Scan Results, & Daraxonrasib | Stage 4 Cancer Weekly Update

    BE A GUEST ON OUR SHOW! 🎙️ Email cancersuckspodcast@gmail.com to let us know you want to be a guest. Welcome to this week’s update! Today, Jay talks about hitting 3 years since his original pancreatic cancer diagnosis, how he emotionally copes with bad news, his latest scan results that weren’t great, going on a new chemo, and the government red tape around the new life-saving pancreatic cancer drug Daraxonrasib.  Jay and Adrienne also discuss: - Latest treatments and clinical trials for pancreatic cancer - The importance of advocacy and self-education in healthcare - The role of positivity and mental resilience in battling cancer - Community support and fundraising efforts for cancer research (this update was recorded on 6/28/26) For more CANCER SUCKS PODCAST ⬇ Follow us on INSTAGRAM for daily updates, laughs, and raw behind-the-scenes moments! Donate to Help Jay Fight Pancreatic Cancer Watch the show on YOUTUBE Follow the CANCER SUCKS Playlist! Find ALL our links in one place, here! Follow Adrienne Follow Parker For booking and other business inquiries: cancersuckspodcast@gmail.com

  4. Jun 30

    My Medical Scare, What Chemo Feels Like, & A Trick For Anxiety | Stage 4 Pancreatic Cancer WEEKLY UPDATE

    Welcome to another WEEKLY UPDATE! Today we’re traveling back in time to October 2025, where Jay explains a recent medical scare he had, describes in detail what getting chemo ACTUALLY feels like, gives us his best tips for pre-chemo anxiety, and takes us back to where he was a year ago today. Jay and Adrienne discuss the joys of teaching, and how grateful we are that Jay is still here fighting the good fight. Thanks everyone, for tuning in! (this update was recorded on 10/19/25) For more CANCER SUCKS PODCAST ⬇ Follow us on INSTAGRAM for daily updates, laughs, and raw behind-the-scenes moments! Donate to Help Jay Fight Pancreatic Cancer Watch the show on YOUTUBE Follow the CANCER SUCKS Playlist! Find ALL our links in one place, here! Follow Adrienne Follow Parker For booking and other business inquiries: cancersuckspodcast@gmail.com 00:00 - welcome back to Cancer Sucks! 03:24 - let’s roll the episode! 05:42 - this time last year 14:59 - biggest tip for anxiety 15:46 - no chemo this week 18:27 - mentally preparing for chemo 22:08 - introducing a 3rd drug 26:28 - world series baseball 28:57 - how is sleeping? 31:46 - what does getting chemo feel like? 38:26 - staying busy is good 47:05 - subscribe to the podcast!

  5. Jun 17

    The Power of Positivity in your Cancer Battle | Stage 4 Pancreatic Cancer WEEKLY UPDATE

    Welcome to another WEEKLY UPDATE! Today we’re traveling back in time to October 2025, where we continue to explore Jay's journey of battling cancer, the importance of positivity, and how to find joy in everyday moments. We touch on: Zofran & CBD gummies Healthcare in the 90's vs now Going to Disneyland to get his steps in!!! Forgetting you have cancer And more genius nuggets on how to stay positive during your battle with cancer Join us for an honest and inspiring conversation about resilience, mental health, and living life to the fullest. (this update was recorded on 10/11/2025) For more CANCER SUCKS PODCAST ⬇ Follow us on INSTAGRAM for daily updates, laughs, and raw behind-the-scenes moments! Donate to Help Jay Fight Pancreatic Cancer Watch the show on YOUTUBE Follow the CANCER SUCKS Playlist! Find ALL our links in one place, here! Follow Adrienne Follow Parker For booking and other business inquiries: cancersuckspodcast@gmail.com 00:00 - Introduction and Context of the Podcast 02:29 - Reflections on Cancer Treatment and Quality of Life 12:50 - Mental Health and Positivity in Cancer Journey 16:39 - Jay's Weekly Update and Work Life 24:47 - Physical Activity Challenges and Adaptations 27:59 - The Power of Positive Environments 30:28 - Balancing Work and Health 33:23 - Collecting Memories: A Visual Journey 36:45 - Gratitude and Perspective on Life 39:49 - Legacy and Family Values 42:44 - The Importance of Perspective in Life

  6. Jun 5

    Weight Loss, Platelet Counts, & Managing Chemo Delays | Stage 4 Pancreatic Cancer WEEKLY UPDATE

    Welcome to another WEEKLY UPDATE! Today we’re traveling back in time to October 2025, where Jay was navigating chemo delays, bad blood cell counts, and discussing the possibility of taking a new pancreatic cancer drug. Jay tells Adrienne the toll that schedule changes have on his mental health, how work is going, and the curiosity of trying to gain weight when he’s only ever tried to lose it. This update may be months old, but every bit of it is still relevant to his current cancer journey, and we’re sure the journey of those around us. Thanks so much for listening! (this update was recorded on 10/2/25) For more CANCER SUCKS PODCAST ⬇ Follow us on INSTAGRAM for daily updates, laughs, and raw behind-the-scenes moments! Donate to Help Jay Fight Pancreatic Cancer Watch the show on YOUTUBE Follow the CANCER SUCKS Playlist! Find ALL our links in one place, here! Follow Adrienne Follow Parker For booking and other business inquiries: cancersuckspodcast@gmail.com

  7. May 26

    The Power of Storytelling in Facing Cancer and Mortality w/ Emmy Winner Noam Dromi

    In this heartfelt episode, Jay Williams and Noam Dromi explore the profound themes of life, death, and the power of storytelling in navigating cancer journeys. They share personal stories, insights on legacy, and practical advice on confronting mortality with grace and honesty. For more CANCER SUCKS PODCAST ⬇ Follow us on INSTAGRAM for daily updates, laughs, and raw behind-the-scenes moments! Donate to Help Jay Fight Pancreatic Cancer Watch the show on YOUTUBE Follow the CANCER SUCKS Playlist! Find ALL our links in one place, here! Follow Adrienne Follow Parker For booking and other business inquiries: cancersuckspodcast@gmail.com CHAPTERS 00:00 The Power of Community in Cancer Journeys 05:08 Storytelling as a Tool for Change 07:46 Navigating Personal Loss and Caregiving 10:42 The Importance of Legacy and Communication 13:31 Facing Mortality with Grace 15:55 Creating Meaningful Connections Through Storytelling 24:20 The Power of Last Words 26:37 Embracing Mortality and Purposeful Living 27:48 Innovations in Cancer Treatment 28:46 Navigating Terminal Illness 30:20 The Challenge of Asking for Help 31:37 The Reality of Healthcare Funding 33:41 The Importance of Community Support 35:31 The Gift of Connection and Vulnerability 37:51 Understanding Individual Needs in Illness 41:53 The Importance of Expressing Gratitude 44:38 Letting Go of Past Grievances 49:05 Creating a Legacy Through Storytelling

  8. May 18

    Stage 4 Pancreatic Cancer Updates: Daraxonrasib, Holistic Treatments, & Pain Management

    Welcome to today’s WEEKLY UPDATE! In this episode, Jay Williams shares a candid update on his ongoing battle with stage four pancreatic cancer, discussing recent medical appointments, new treatments, and the importance of a holistic approach to health and wellness during cancer treatment. We’ll discuss: The new pancreatic cancer drug, Daraxonrasib Jay’s upcoming appointment with an Herbologist to discuss diet, supplements, and other wholistic treatments Jay’s upcoming appointment with his Pain Management doctor  Blood level management and side effects The importance of patient advocacy and collaboration (this update was recorded on 5/17/26) For more CANCER SUCKS PODCAST ⬇ Follow us on INSTAGRAM for daily updates, laughs, and raw behind-the-scenes moments! Donate to Help Jay Fight Pancreatic Cancer Watch the show on YOUTUBE Follow the CANCER SUCKS Playlist! Find ALL our links in one place, here! Follow Adrienne Follow Parker For booking and other business inquiries: cancersuckspodcast@gmail.com 00:00 Introduction to the Journey 01:29 Medical Updates -  Daraxonrasib  06:25 Exploring New Treatment Options - Herbalogist 10:44 Pain Management Doctor Appointment 13:25 Meeting with Whipple Surgeon 15:51 What Options Are Left? 19:58 How Jay's Feeling Right Now 25:09 Closing Thoughts and Future Outlook

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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
5 Ratings

About

Cancer SUCKS, but this show doesn't! And your life doesn't have to either. Welcome to the Cancer Sucks Podcast. I'm your host Jay Williams, and I’m currently fighting pancreatic cancer and talking about ALL of it — the good, the bad, the confusing, and the occasionally ridiculous. Whether you’re a survivor, caregiver, or just curious about that big scary “C” word, this isn’t a downer—it's an empowering pep talk with a dash of humor. Get inspired, get informed, and remember—cancer sucks, but you don’t have to.

Information

  • Creator
    Adrienne Finch and Jay Williams
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    18
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Adrienne Finch and Jay Williams
  • Show Website
    The Cancer Sucks Podcast