Cancer Out Loud: The CancerCare Podcast

CancerCare
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Everyone’s experience with cancer is unique, but you don’t have to face it alone. Cancer Out Loud brings you conversations with people living with cancer, caregivers, survivors, family members, and those who have lost loved ones. No matter where you are in your journey, Cancer Out Loud is here to offer guidance, support, and hope. Cancer Out Loud is part of CancerCare, the leading national nonprofit providing free, professional support services to anyone affected by cancer. Listen and learn more at cancercare.org/canceroutloud.

  1. OCT 14

    75. Kids Just Want to be Kids

    We would love to hear from you! Please share your thoughts or episode ideas at ⁠canceroutloud@cancercare.org⁠ or leave a comment on this episode! Please follow, rate and share Cancer Out Loud to help others find strength and support through our community. Summary In this episode, Christina Monaco and Sara Whelan discuss the profound impact of childhood cancer on families, emphasizing the emotional challenges faced by parents and siblings. They explore the importance of resilience in children, the need for community support, and the significance of self-care for caregivers. The conversation highlights the various services available through CancerCare and the necessity of acknowledging the unique experiences of each family affected by childhood cancer. Takeaways Childhood cancer affects a wide age range, from birth to 17.Each child's experience with cancer is unique and influenced by many factors.Parents often feel guilt and helplessness when their child is diagnosed.Siblings of children with cancer also experience emotional challenges.Asking for help is crucial for families dealing with childhood cancer.Counseling and support groups are vital resources for families.Children with cancer still seek joy and normalcy in their lives.Community support can alleviate some burdens for families.Self-care for caregivers is essential to provide effective support.It's important to acknowledge the emotional impact of childhood cancer on the entire family.

    37 min

  2. AUG 29

    74.The Future is an Open Book

    Join us for the next episode of Cancer Out Loud, The CancerCare Podcast, as guest host and oncology social worker, Sara Grisales Jaramillo, speaks with Jon Fox, a cancer survivor and former elementary school teacher. Jon shares his journey from diagnosis to survivorship, discussing the emotional and psychological challenges he faced, the grief of losing aspects of his former life, and the importance of community and support in navigating the complexities of life after cancer. He emphasizes the need for self-advocacy and finding the right resources to aid in recovery, while also reflecting on the duality of emotions experienced throughout the journey.  Thank you to Jon for shedding light on the unique challenges and triumphs of those affected by cancer. Follow Jon on social media: Instagram Key Takeaways Cancer can interrupt any career or life stage.  Survivorship is its own chapter with unexpected challenges.  Many people feel isolated once treatment ends and support tapers off.  Grief shows up in everyday ways—sometimes even in how food tastes or brings joy.  Community and connection are key to feeling seen and supported.  Many effects are invisible to others (fatigue, brain fog, anxiety, pain).  Self-advocacy matters in follow-up care and day-to-day life.  It helps to hold space for both what’s been lost and what’s newly possible.  Healing isn’t linear; patience, time, and support make a difference.

    56 min

  3. JUL 31

    73. From Provider to Patient: Fernando’s Story 

    In this next episode of Cancer Out Loud, guest host and oncology social worker Daniel LaPook, LMSW, speaks with Fernando Palacios, an oncology nurse and cancer survivor, about his journey from healthcare provider to patient. Fernando shares his experiences with diagnosis, treatment, and the emotional complexities of navigating cancer as a young adult. He emphasizes the importance of communication, support systems, and self-advocacy in the healthcare process. The conversation highlights coping strategies, the intersection of patient and provider identities, and the ongoing impact of cancer on mental health and relationships.  Key Takeaways  Navigating dual roles—such as being both a provider and a patient—can bring emotional complexity. Coping strategies like therapy, journaling, and open dialogue can support emotional resilience. A supportive network significantly influences emotional and mental well-being. Young adults often encounter unique challenges and assumptions within the healthcare system. Self-advocacy is critical in ensuring one’s needs are met in complex care systems. Language and tone used by healthcare professionals can profoundly impact patient experience. Experiencing a wide range of emotions is a natural and valid part of the illness journey.

    59 min

  4. JUN 30

    72. Survivorship in Real Time: Then and Now

    In honor of National Cancer Survivor Month, guest host Christina Monaco, LMSW, sits down with young adult survivor Neema Philippe for an unflinching conversation about being diagnosed with cancer at age 29—and what comes next. Neema revisits the shock of her diagnosis, the whirlwind of treatments, and the grief of watching life plans shift overnight. She shares how vulnerability became a healing tool, why self-advocacy matters at every stage, and the small rituals that help her reclaim joy. Whether you’re a survivor, caregiver, or clinician, Neema’s reflections on self-care, community, and life “after” will leave you inspired—and better equipped to navigate your own path beyond cancer.  Key takeaways:  A cancer diagnosis at any age can be shocking and life-altering.  The words “you have cancer” often bring intense emotional overwhelm.  Life stage can deeply shape how someone experiences cancer, especially when it disrupts expectations or milestones.  Medical decisions—like fertility preservation—carry emotional complexity and long-term considerations.  Support systems play a vital role in coping with the isolation that can come with a cancer diagnosis.  Embracing vulnerability can foster healing and a deeper connection.  It’s common to grieve the loss of imagined futures while navigating illness.  Fear of recurrence can linger long after treatment ends.  Finding moments of joy and meaning can help support emotional well-being during and after cancer treatment.  Self-advocacy is essential when navigating the healthcare system and making informed decisions.

    47 min

  5. MAY 30

    71. Beyond a Bladder Cancer Diagnosis: The Path to Survivorship

    In this episode of Cancer Out Loud, guest host and oncology social worker Christina Monaco welcomes bladder cancer survivor Steven Gruber to explore life after diagnosis, just in time for May, Bladder Cancer Awareness Month. Steven recounts the moment he first saw blood in his urine, the frustrating run‑around he faced before landing in a world‑class NYC cancer center, and the decision to undergo radical bladder and prostate removal. He doesn’t shy away from the complications—recurrent UTIs, emotional lows, and shifts in intimacy—but he also celebrates the community of caregivers, fellow survivors, and loved ones who carried him through. We’re proud to partner with the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network (BCAN) to highlight patient voices like Steven’s. Today, he channels his experience into advocacy, reminding us all that survivorship is not just about living—it’s about thriving. Key Takeaways: Early detection can improve outcomes. Persistence is key in navigating care. Treatment choices shape your path forward. Planning helps manage post‑treatment challenges. Emotional and spiritual strength sustains you. Relationships and intimacy can evolve after cancer. A strong support network is vital. Survivorship often inspires advocacy. Staying informed and taking action empowers you.

    57 min

  6. APR 28

    70. Grief, Growth and the Love That Remains

    In this episode of Cancer Out Loud, Briana shares her profound journey of grief with guest host and oncology social worker, Laurie Feingold, following the loss of her young adult brother to a rare terminal brain cancer. She reflects on the initial shock of his diagnosis, the emotional turmoil she faced during his illness, and the deep sense of loss after his passing. Briana speaks to the unique challenges families face when navigating adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer, and highlights the importance of seeking therapy, the healing power of journaling, and the small steps that helped her regain a sense of purpose. Through her content creation on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube (@siblinggriefjourney), she continues to raise awareness and support others coping with loss. Her story is a testament to resilience, healing, and the power of hope. Key takeaways:  A cancer diagnosis—especially in an AYA—can leave families feeling overwhelmed and uncertain.  Grief doesn’t look the same for everyone; it can affect us emotionally, mentally, and physically.  Counseling can be a powerful source of support when navigating loss.  Journaling can offer a safe space to process complex emotions and memories.  Rebuilding a routine, even through small daily goals, can create a sense of stability during grief.  Sharing one’s story—through writing, content creation, or conversation—can be a meaningful part of healing.  Grief invites us to feel everything: the anger, the sadness, the confusion—and that’s okay.  Self-compassion is vital; being gentle with yourself is part of the healing process.  Advocating for others who are grieving can help foster a sense of community and connection.

    28 min

  7. MAR 24

    69. Thriving Beyond TNBC: Resilience, Advocacy and Community

    Since 2009, CancerCare and the Triple Negative Breast Cancer Foundation have partnered to provide vital support to those affected by TNBC. In this episode of Cancer Out Loud, host Cassie Spector (oncology social worker and CancerCare's Breast and Gynecological Cancer Program Coordinator) speaks with Allison McNeill, a Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) Day ambassador, about her experience with TNBC. They discuss the challenges of diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship and the importance of support systems and community. Allison shares her experiences navigating family dynamics, communicating with her children, and balancing work and health during treatment. The conversation emphasizes the need for advocacy, awareness, and the emotional complexities of living with TNBC .  Episode Takeaways: - Trust what the doctors are saying. - Don't Google things; trust the process. - It's okay to let go of control a little bit. - Stay active, get outside, and connect with nature. - Don't react until there's something to react to. - You have to meet this new version of yourself. - Just say yes to help when it's offered. - Knowledge is power in this area. - It's okay to push back and ask questions.

    59 min

  8. 10/28/2024

    68. Dreaming Keeps Me Going

    In this episode of Cancer Out Loud, host Sarah Paul sits down with VanDawn Williams, a fashion industry professional and young adult who shares his inspiring journey through a rare metastatic cancer diagnosis. VanDawn opens up about his career in fashion, the vibrant lifestyle he enjoyed, and the life-altering shock of his diagnosis. He candidly discusses the mental and physical challenges he faced, including undergoing emergency surgery and the impact of losing his job. VanDawn emphasizes the crucial role of mental health support and the importance of finding a community of young adults with cancer. He shares his coping strategies, such as creating routines, pursuing creative endeavors, and practicing meditation. Throughout his journey, VanDawn expresses deep gratitude for the unwavering support of his partner, friends, and family. Join us as VanDawn recounts finding support and blessings in unexpected places, highlighting the significance of a strong support network, including organizations like CancerCare. He also sheds light on the silent struggles young adults with cancer face, such as mental health challenges and changes in intimacy. VanDawn encourages others not to let cancer define them and to continue pursuing their dreams. His perspective on life has shifted, and he now trusts his journey and embraces personal growth. Tune in to hear VanDawn’s powerful story of resilience, community, and personal transformation. Takeaways: Being diagnosed with cancer can completely disrupt one's life and career. Mental health support is crucial for individuals facing a cancer diagnosis. Creating routines, pursuing passions, and practicing meditation can help cope with the challenges of cancer. A strong support system, including a partner, friends, and family, is invaluable during the cancer journey.  Silent struggles, such as mental health challenges and changes in intimacy, need to be openly discussed and addressed. Cancer should not define a person's identity or limit their dreams and aspirations. Trusting one's journey and embracing personal growth can lead to a positive perspective on life.

    54 min
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Ratings & Reviews

4.7
out of 5
9 Ratings

About

Everyone’s experience with cancer is unique, but you don’t have to face it alone. Cancer Out Loud brings you conversations with people living with cancer, caregivers, survivors, family members, and those who have lost loved ones. No matter where you are in your journey, Cancer Out Loud is here to offer guidance, support, and hope. Cancer Out Loud is part of CancerCare, the leading national nonprofit providing free, professional support services to anyone affected by cancer. Listen and learn more at cancercare.org/canceroutloud.

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