Life on Pause

Penn State Health
  • 5.0 (11)
  • PERSONAL JOURNALS
Life on Pause

Life On Pause is a podcast for and by young adults living with cancer. Each month, young adult cancer patients from Penn State Health share honestly about their cancer diagnosis, treatment and life afterwards. As cancer causes the group to reflect on issues both large and small, surprisingly relatable stories and themes emerge. From relationships to body functions, nothing is off the table.

  1. APR 1

    Finding Strength in Support: Young Adults on Cancer, Community, and Coming Back Stronger

    In this episode of Life on Pause, young adult cancer survivors open up about the incredible power of support systems. From family and friends to classmates, coworkers, and even strangers, our guests share how they leaned on their communities—both online and offline—through diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship. You’ll hear honest stories of: Facing cancer far from homeLearning to ask for helpNavigating work and education post-treatmentDiscovering unexpected empathy from roommates, bosses, and even neighborsAdvocating for others after remission Whether you're in treatment, supporting someone who is, or just seeking real stories of resilience, this conversation is for you. 💬 Join us as we explore what it means to find strength in vulnerability and redefine support on your own terms.

    33 min

  2. MAR 18

    Navigating Cancer’s Impact on Education & Career Paths

    How does a cancer diagnosis impact education and career aspirations? In this episode of Life on Pause, seven young adult cancer survivors share their personal experiences of having their lives disrupted by cancer during pivotal academic and professional moments. From reimagining career paths to navigating education with ongoing treatment, their stories highlight resilience, adaptation, and newfound purpose. Join us as we discuss the challenges of pausing life for treatment, the uncertainty of returning to school and work, and the surprising ways survivorship reshapes ambitions. Whether you’re a student, professional, or caregiver, this candid conversation offers invaluable insights into the intersection of cancer, education, and vocation. Tune in and subscribe to Life on Pause for more real stories from young adult cancer survivors. 🎧 Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you listen to podcasts. Educational and occupational aspirations of adolescent and young adult cancer survivors: a qualitative analysis: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39105828/ Participants: USC - Olivia Brown, diagnosed at 25 USC – Jared Lipscomb, diagnosed at 31 USC – Quincy Wallen, diagnosed at 31 USC – Xixi Hu, diagnosed at 34 PSH – Taylor Mahoney, diagnosed at 12 PSH – Bailey Unterkofler, diagnosed at 17 PSH – Shelly Bliss, diagnosed at 9

    44 min

  3. 11/26/2024 · BONUS

    Cancer, Weight Changes, and Self-Image: A Survivor’s Perspective

    In this candid bonus episode of Life on Pause, young adults share their personal experiences with body image during and after cancer treatment. Through heartfelt stories, they explore the challenges of rapid weight changes, self-perception, and the emotional impact of visible scars. As they recount experiences with weight loss, steroids, and the constant battle with self-image, they reveal how cancer affects not only health but also one's sense of identity. Join us as we discuss the nuances of body image issues, the struggles for control, and the societal pressures that survivors often face in remission.

    9 min

  4. 11/19/2024 · BONUS

    Unforgettable Smells: Cancer Survivors Share Sensory Triggers

    In this bonus episode of Life on Pause, young adult cancer survivors open up about the powerful sensory triggers that bring back memories of their cancer treatment. From the sharp scent of hand sanitizer to the saline flushes that evoke a distinct taste, these triggers linger long after treatment. Hosted by Corene Parrish, the conversation delves into how specific smells, sounds, and tastes impact each person’s experience and recovery journey. Tune in to hear how these sensory memories shape their lives and learn why something as simple as a scent can be so evocative for those touched by cancer.

    4 min

  5. 11/12/2024

    Sweet and Salty: How Cancer Changes Your Relationship with Food

    In this heartfelt episode of Life on Pause, Corene Parrish and a group of young adult cancer survivors gather to explore the complex relationship between food and cancer. Reflecting on life before, during, and after treatment, they discuss the surprising ways cancer impacted their cravings, taste preferences, and emotional connections with food. From cravings for indulgent foods to the bittersweet memories linked to specific dishes, the group shares personal stories, struggles with food aversions, and the comfort they found in certain meals. They also discuss the challenges of dietary restrictions during treatment and the importance of savoring life’s flavors post-cancer. Whether you’re a survivor or someone looking to understand the cancer journey better, join us for a conversation that’s equal parts sweet, salty, and empowering.

    36 min

  6. 10/29/2024 · BONUS

    Survivorship Clinics: Facing the Long-Term Side Effects of Cancer

    Surviving cancer is only the beginning of the journey. In this episode of Life on Pause, Nathan Smelser, Corene Parrish, and Sammy Szurkowski dive into the emotional and practical challenges of navigating life after cancer. From the overwhelming amount of medical information shared during survivorship clinics to the long-term side effects that surface years later, they reflect on the ups and downs of post-cancer care. Whether it's about learning to manage lingering health risks or finding support in unexpected places, this episode highlights the importance of survivorship programs and shared experiences. Join us for an honest conversation about what it means to be responsible for your own care long after the battle with cancer is over. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and follow us on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts! 0:00 - Survivorship Clinic: First Impressions 0:35 - Understanding Long-Term Side Effects 1:19 - Emotional Transition Post-Cancer 2:04 - The Value of Survivorship Resources --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    4 min

  7. 10/22/2024 · BONUS

    The Real and Raw Side of Friendships During Cancer

    Navigating a cancer diagnosis as a teenager is challenging, but the support of friends can make a world of difference. In this episode of Life on Pause, we hear personal stories from Corene Parrish, Nathan Smelsar, and Sammy Szurkowski, who share how their friend groups responded during their cancer journeys. From high school drama to unwavering support, they reflect on the powerful role that community played in their lives. Tune in to hear about moments of strength, friendship, and resilience, as well as the challenges of coping with illness at a young age. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and follow us on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts! 0:00 - How Friends Supported Me Through Cancer 1:45 - Dealing with High School Drama During Treatment 3:00 - Hospital Stays and Finding Comfort in Small Things 4:24 - Losing a Friend to Cancer Before My Diagnosis 5:29 - Community and Friends Rallying Around Me 7:03 - Fundraisers and Overwhelming Support --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    10 min

  8. 10/15/2024

    Real Stories of Young Cancer Survivors: Balancing School and Treatment

    Returning to school after a cancer diagnosis can be an overwhelming challenge, filled with unique hurdles and unexpected moments. In this episode of Life On Pause, young adult cancer survivors Sammy, Nathan, and Corene share their personal stories of navigating the educational landscape during and after their treatments. From missed school days to balancing social lives, these survivors open up about the emotional and physical obstacles they faced, and how cancer shaped their academic paths. Tune in to hear their candid reflections on dealing with teachers, peers, and the unexpected lessons that come with a life-changing diagnosis. Whether you're a student, educator, or cancer survivor, this episode offers heartfelt insights into the realities of balancing school and survivorship. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and follow us on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts! 00:00 - Introduction: Cancer and School Challenges 01:16 - Diagnosed with Cancer in High School and College 06:11 - Telling Friends and Teachers About Cancer 15:06 - Navigating College During Cancer Treatment 17:45 - Career and Life Changes After Cancer 31:41 - Emotional and Physical Challenges After Cancer 52:53 - Changed Perspectives After Surviving Cancer --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    54 min
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5
out of 5
11 Ratings

About

Life On Pause is a podcast for and by young adults living with cancer. Each month, young adult cancer patients from Penn State Health share honestly about their cancer diagnosis, treatment and life afterwards. As cancer causes the group to reflect on issues both large and small, surprisingly relatable stories and themes emerge. From relationships to body functions, nothing is off the table.

Information

  • Creator
    Penn State Health
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2025
  • Episodes
    63
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 517748
  • Show Website
    Life on Pause

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