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. 3d ago

    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

    36 min

  2. 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

    55 min

  3. 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

    31 min

  4. May 14

    How Community Events Are Changing The Cancer Fight

    Join us as we explore the inspiring stories from the Pan Can Walk and Relay for Life events, featuring personal journeys, innovative cancer research, and community support efforts. Learn how technology, advocacy, and community engagement are making a difference in the fight against cancer. 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 Overview of the Episode 01:24 - Jay’s Medical Update  05:21 - Exploring New Treatment Options and AI in Cancer Care 10:53 - Advocacy and Patient Empowerment in Cancer Treatment 14:48 - Inspiration from Cancer Events: PanCAN and Relay for Life 18:11 - The importance of Slowing Down Cancer Progression 19:11 - PanCAN: Support and Fundraising for Pancreatic Cancer 20:16 - Relay for Life: Community and Personal Stories 24:15 - Parker’s Experience: Documenting the Events 28:15 - At the PanCAN walk and Interviews with Other Survivors 35:17 - Parker’s Experience with Relay for Life 38:57 - At Relay for Life 42:11 - Overall Experience at Events

    45 min

  5. Apr 27

    Planning My Wedding While My Dad Fights Cancer: A Conversation w/ Jay’s Son, Parker

    Most people shy away from the tough lessons life throws at you—especially when it involves cancer, faith, and flying blind. Parker Williams did not just survive his dad’s pancreatic battle; he turned it into a masterclass on resilience, love, and learning to ride the wave when your world flips upside down.  Welcome to Part 4 of the Cancer Sucks Podcast’s Caregiver Series! In this episode, Parker reveals the raw, unfiltered truth about stepping up under pressure, finding humor in chaos, and discovering that some of the biggest lessons come when you least expect them. You'll discover how a 25-year-old managed to keep his family afloat during a medical rollercoaster, turning moments of fear into powerful lessons about control, gratitude, and one heck of a love story with Ashlyn. From the biggest health scare of his life to planning a wedding amid a cancer fight, Parker shares the candid lessons he’s learned about life, death, and what really matters—Because, remember: cancer might suck, but your life doesn’t have to! 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 Episode 9 02:17 Jay's Medical Updates! 05:30 The Importance of Caregivers 08:14 Fundraising and Community Support 14:49 Introducing Jay's son, Parker 19:24 Rewind to June 2023 24:32 Parker & Adrienne Hear The Diagnosis 25:45 Finding Out It's Pancreatic Cancer 29:59 Growing Up Fast - The Only Sibling At Home 33:44 How I Got Cancer Doesn't Matter 34:48 Navigating Love While Caretaking 42:21 The Biggest Lesson Parker Learned 44:20 Navigating Wedding Planning While Caretaking 49:50 Family Support and the Importance of Togetherness 53:23 Lessons Learned Through Adversity 57:36 Finding Strength in Control and Perspective 01:01:05 Parker's Parting Wisdom

    1h 6m

  6. Apr 20

    Caring From Afar: A Conversation w/ Jay’s Oldest Son, Brantley And His Wife Savannah

    Welcome to Part 3 of the Cancer Sucks Podcast’s Caregiver Series! Most people think cancer is just a patient’s battle. Nope! This episode flips the script and brings you behind the scenes into the family’s front lines. Jay’s son Brantley and his wife Savannah share unfiltered, heartfelt stories about what it’s like to navigate a loved one’s cancer from hundreds of miles away. Spoiler alert: It’s a rollercoaster of hope, guilt, humor, and unwavering love. You’ll discover the surprising emotional toll of being geographically distant during the hardest days—plus, why maintaining a routine and leaning into humor can be your secret superpower. We break down the power of a village when you’re fighting cancer, and how shared experiences, like military service or firefighter bravery, shape your perspective on risk, mortality, and resilience. This episode isn’t just feel-good; it’s packed with practical advice for families, friends, and anyone caring for someone with cancer. If you’ve ever felt helpless, or just want to understand what your loved ones are really going through, this is your must-listen. It’ll make you appreciate your support system and maybe even inspire you to be someone’s village today. In the end, it’s about remembering—no matter what battles we face, we’re never alone. Your life doesn’t have to suck just because cancer does. When you surround yourself with love, humor, and a little determination, you can fight like a family, no matter how far apart. Perfect for caregivers, family members, or anyone who loves a good dose of raw, real inspiration. 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 of Podcast and it’s purpose 01:27 - Understanding Caregiver Perspectives 03:48 - Family Dynamics and Relationships 08:54 - Navigating Life Changes 11:44 - Facing Morality and Health Scares 17:35 - The role of First Responders 24:29 - Mental Resilience in Crisis 30:21 - Building a Supportive Community 34:43 - Advice for Caregivers and Supporters

    43 min

  7. Apr 13

    “My Brother Has Pancreatic Cancer” - A Conversation w/ Jay’s Sister, Julie

    Welcome to Part 2 of the Cancer Sucks Podcast’s Caregiver Series, where hosts Jay Williams and Adrienne Finch sit down with Jay’s family members for raw, honest conversations that explore the profound impact of cancer on family dynamics. In today’s episode, they introduce Jay's sister, Julie, who shares her perspective as a family member of a cancer patient. The conversation delves into the emotional challenges faced by caregivers, the importance of support systems, and the unique bond between siblings navigating the complexities of illness. Through personal anecdotes and statistics, the episode highlights the necessity of connection and understanding in the face of adversity. They discuss the emotional complexities of dealing with cancer within their family. They explore themes of loss, guilt, and the importance of communication and support systems. Jay shares personal experiences of navigating his diagnosis and the impact it has on family dynamics, while also emphasizing the need for positivity and early detection. The discussion culminates in advice for loved ones facing similar challenges, highlighting the significance of cherishing relationships and maintaining a hopeful outlook. 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 Podcast and Its Purpose 02:41 Let's Welcome Jay's Sister, Julie! 03:46 Statistics on Caregiving and Emotional Support 04:14 Cancer Caregiving Fun Facts 06:20 Sibling Relationships and Shared Experiences 08:58 Coping with Long Distance Family 11:29 Feeling Helpless When You Live Far Away 13:59 The Importance of Sibling Support 16:21 Losing Both Parents to Cancer 17:39 Guilt and Emotional Struggles 19:08 Are You Afraid of Cancer? 21:30 Getting the Diagnosis Phone Call 23:26 Finding Positivity in Adversity 24:35 Lessons from Loss 25:31 Dealing With Survivor's Guilt 26:54 A Powerful Will To Live 29:16 Legacy of Love and Strength 32:07 Purpose and Helping Others 34:31 Advice for Families of Cancer Patients 38:16 Closing Thoughts and Gratitude

    41 min

  8. Apr 6

    Jedi Mind Tricks, Chemo Updates, & Caregiving w/ Jay’s Wife, Cathy Williams!

    Welcome to our 6th WEEKLY UPDATE and our very first guest episode! This episode kicks off our mini “caregiver” series, where we’ll sit down with some of Jay’s family members to get their POV. Today, we begin with Jay’s wonderful wife, Cathy. But first, Jay shares some not-so-great pancreatic cancer updates, and where he’s at in his treatment. Jay and Adrienne discuss maintaining positivity, navigating treatment, and the power of social media in cancer journeys. They revisit the power of emotional resilience, and the importance of community support. Then, Jay’s wife Cathy joins the conversation to discuss caregiving, the emotional rollercoaster, and the power of community and positivity in facing adversity. (this update was recorded on 9/19/26) 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 Perception of Time and Cancer 07:23 The Battle with Cancer: Weight Loss and Health Challenges 09:59 Adapting to Treatment: Chemo and Medical Innovations 12:24 Technology in Cancer Care: Dexcom and Injections 16:50 Understanding the DEXCOM Device 19:22 Navigating Medical Procedures and Tests 22:20 The Reality of Chemotherapy 26:26 A Day in the Life of Chemo 28:09 Understanding the Chemotherapy Process 28:50 Experiences in the Infusion Area 30:04 The Importance of Individualized Care 31:39 The Role of Content Creators in Cancer Awareness 33:44 Challenging Cancer Stigmas 35:21 The Power of Positive Mindset 36:26 Welcoming Jay’s Wife, Cathy! 40:02 The Role of Caregivers in Cancer Journeys 40:56 Navigating the Emotional Landscape of a Diagnosis 42:43 The Impact of Treatment on Caregivers 43:36 Maintaining Relationships During Tough Times 45:21 Balancing Traditional and Alternative Treatments 47:48 The Weight of Hope and Anxiety 48:58 Finding Positivity Amidst Challenges 52:07 Self-Care Practices for Caregivers 54:45 Coping Strategies for Anxiety 55:29 Family Dynamics and Communication 56:42 The Role of Caregivers 58:58 Finding Silver Linings 01:02:07 Advice for Caregivers 01:05:21 The Importance of Community Support

    1h 7m
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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
    2K
  • Episodes
    13
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Adrienne Finch and Jay Williams
  • Show Website
    The Cancer Sucks Podcast

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