Talking Blood Cancer

THT Productions
THT Productions
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Mental Health
  • Updated Monthly

A podcast for people who have been diagnosed with a blood cancer and their loved ones. Sharing stories of others who have faced blood cancer in the hope that it will offer insight, inspiration and hope.

  1. 16h ago

    The Why Behind Movement Morgan Farley’s Mission for Blood Cancer Wellbeing

    In this episode of the Talking Blood Cancer podcast, host Maryanne Skarparis speaks with Morgan Farley, an exercise physiologist whose personal journey and professional expertise have shaped her unique approach to patient care for people living with blood cancer. Morgan shares how her background as a high-level athlete and her experiences supporting her grandmother through lymphoma led her to specialise in exercise physiology for cancer patients. She describes the challenges her grandmother faced after being diagnosed, including recommendations to reduce physical activity during treatment, and how together they developed a simple, home-based exercise program that helped her grandmother maintain strength and improve well-being. Exploring the growing body of research showing that targeted exercise not only manages side effects such as fatigue but may also strengthen the immune system and improve treatment outcomes for people with blood cancer. Morgan Farley explains how even short bouts of exercise can make a positive difference, and how tailor-made programs can fit each individual’s circumstances and abilities. The importance of addressing both the physical and emotional effects of a cancer diagnosis, with insights on how finding purpose and community support can help people adapt and thrive during and after treatment. Concluding with practical advice, including the value of consulting with an exercise physiologist, starting with small steps, and not neglecting muscle strength in one’s exercise routine. For more information about the Leukaemia Foundation visit: https://www.leukaemia.org.au The Talking Blood Cancer Podcast is brought to you by the Leukaemia Foundation and is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/network. Mentioned in this episode: To help in our pursuit of better government support, sign our petition on cutcancercost.org.au. Cut the cost of cancer – Leukaemia Foundation

    The Why Behind Movement Morgan Farley’s Mission for Blood Cancer Wellbeing

  2. Sep 2

    Discovering Silver Linings: Nicole McKenna Talks About Life After Blood Cancer

    In this episode of the Talking Blood Cancer podcast, host Kate Arkadieff speaks with Nicole McKenna about her experience following a diagnosis of acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) in 2018. Nicole discusses the lead-up to her diagnosis, recalling how subtle blood changes were initially attributed to perimenopause before her condition was fully understood. She highlights the importance of trusting her medical team and avoiding potentially confusing or distressing online searches, sharing her strategy of focusing on information from her doctors. Nicole describes the emotional impact of her diagnosis, especially the challenge of communicating the news to her family, particularly her two daughters who were teenagers at the time. They explore how Nicole and her family adjusted to life after diagnosis. Nicole talks about the essential role her wider community, friends, and even her pets played in supporting her. Outlining Nicole’s time in hospital during intensive treatment and stem cell transplant, some of the physical side effects she faced, including hair loss and a tough recovery period, and the ways she found comfort in small, familiar routines. Nicole and Kate discuss the importance of specialist psychosocial support following treatment, and how building connections with others who have lived through similar diagnoses can make a meaningful difference to emotional recovery. Nicole now uses her experience to support others and advocates for providing a patient’s perspective to health service improvement, reminding listeners of the value of shared experiences and community. For more information about the Leukaemia Foundation visit: https://www.leukaemia.org.au The Talking Blood Cancer Podcast is brought to you by the Leukaemia Foundation and is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/network. Mentioned in this episode: To help in our pursuit of better government support, sign our petition on cutcancercost.org.au. Cut the cost of cancer – Leukaemia Foundation

    Discovering Silver Linings: Nicole McKenna Talks About Life After Blood Cancer

  3. Aug 19

    Teenage Resilience: How Blood Cancer Changed Keira Cowan’s High School Life

    In this episode of the Talking Blood Cancer podcast, host Kate Arkadieff sits down with Keira Cowan to discuss her lived experience with severe aplastic anaemia. Diagnosed at age 15, just before her 16th birthday, Keira Cowan shares her journey from the first signs of illness through her diagnosis and the subsequent impact on her education, friendships, and mental wellbeing. Describing how her symptoms were first noticed by her family and friends, leading to a sequence of medical appointments and hospital admission. She recalls the shock and uncertainty of hearing her diagnosis and the anxiety that followed during her initial hospitalisation and treatment. They explore the challenges of managing a blood disorder as a young person. Discussing the realities of missing school, maintaining friendships during long periods at home, and the role of a reliable support system. Keira speaks candidly about feeling isolated at times and the strategies, such as getting a pet and maintaining regular communication with close friends, that helped her cope emotionally. Highlighting the importance of supportive healthcare services, such as hospital schools and flexible academic arrangements. Keira Cowan discusses the transition from paediatric to adult care, her ongoing health monitoring, and her determination to pursue a career in healthcare inspired by her own journey. She offers honest advice to others facing a diagnosis, emphasising the value of leaning on support networks and acknowledging that it is okay not to be okay. For more information about the Leukaemia Foundation visit: https://www.leukaemia.org.au The Talking Blood Cancer Podcast is brought to you by the Leukaemia Foundation and is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/network. Mentioned in this episode: To help in our pursuit of better government support, sign our petition on cutcancercost.org.au. Cut the cost of cancer – Leukaemia Foundation

    Teenage Resilience: How Blood Cancer Changed Keira Cowan’s High School Life

  4. Aug 5

    Real Talk on Food, Care, and Coping with Blood Cancer with Eleanor Quinn

    In this episode of the Talking Blood Cancer podcast, host Kate Arkadieff welcomes Eleanor Quinn, a supportive care case manager and dietitian with the Leukaemia Foundation. They explored nutrition and wellbeing for those affected by blood cancer, offering insight from both a healthcare professional and support perspective. Eleanor discusses the unique pressures that patients, carers, and families can feel when it comes to eating well during a blood cancer diagnosis and treatment. She addresses common myths and misunderstandings about food, emphasising that there is no one food or diet that can cure or prevent relapse of blood cancer. They discuss how overwhelming “food noise” from social media and well-meaning advice can be, and the importance of seeking reliable guidance from qualified dietitians when needed. Sharing practical advice for managing nutrition during treatment. They also touched on the financial challenges many face with the rising cost of food, providing tips for nutritious eating on a budget and highlighting the role of community support. Eleanor offers considerations around medical nutrition support, such as nasogastric tubes, aiming to reduce stigma and fear by explaining their purpose and temporary nature. The importance of open communication with healthcare teams, and encourages both patients and carers to advocate for their needs and preferences, whether related to food, symptoms, or overall wellbeing. Links & Resources: Nutrition and blood cancer made simple Nutrition and blood cancer For more information about the Leukaemia Foundation visit: https://www.leukaemia.org.au The Talking Blood Cancer Podcast is brought to you by the Leukaemia Foundation and is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/network. Mentioned in this episode: To help in our pursuit of better government support, sign our petition on cutcancercost.org.au. Cut the cost of cancer – Leukaemia Foundation

    Real Talk on Food, Care, and Coping with Blood Cancer with Eleanor Quinn

  5. Jul 22

    Taking Control When Life Changes: Lorri Veca’s Story of Strength and Hope

    In this episode of the Talking Blood Cancer podcast, host Kate Arkadieff speaks with Lorri Veca, who shares her personal experience of being diagnosed with multiple myeloma at the age of 65. Lorri discusses the unexpected nature of her diagnosis, which was discovered during a routine blood donation when she had no obvious symptoms. She talks about the medical investigations that followed, and how quickly her life was changed by the need to start immediate treatment. Lorri gives an honest account of the many challenges she faced following her diagnosis. The impact of cancer-related fatigue, the need to stop working in a role she loved at the Australian Red Cross, and the process of adjusting to a new normal. Lorri describes her experience navigating mental health challenges, the importance of acceptance, and finding practical strategies to cope, such as gentle exercise and using support networks. Highlighting the importance of open communication with healthcare professionals, support organisations like the Leukemia Foundation, and loved ones. She also talks about the value of setting boundaries, preparing for unexpected changes, and focusing on the aspects of life that she can control. Lorri’s story provides advice and encouragement to others living with blood cancer. Showing that it is normal to experience grief and loss and highlights the role of social connections and mental health support. For more information about the Leukaemia Foundation visit: https://www.leukaemia.org.au The Talking Blood Cancer Podcast is brought to you by the Leukaemia Foundation and is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/network. Mentioned in this episode: To help in our pursuit of better government support, sign our petition on cutcancercost.org.au. Cut the cost of cancer – Leukaemia Foundation

    Taking Control When Life Changes: Lorri Veca’s Story of Strength and Hope

  6. Jul 8

    The Road to Remission: Jacinta Smith’s Inspiring Blood Cancer Story

    In this episode of the Talking Blood Cancer podcast, host Kate Arkadieff speaks with Jacinta Smith about her journey facing acute myeloid leukaemia. Jacinta shares her experience from the initial diagnosis through the many physical and emotional challenges that followed, providing an honest account of what it means to adjust to life with a blood cancer diagnosis. Talking about Jacinta’s busy life before diagnosis, including her role as a mother of three and her successful banking career. She describes the early signs of illness, her hospital admission, and the shock of learning about her condition. Jacinta openly discusses the experience of telling her children about her diagnosis and how her family coped during times of uncertainty. They explore the realities of treatment, including the difficulties of chemotherapy, the need for a bone marrow transplant, and the impact of serious complications like infection and intensive care stays. Jacinta details the physical rehabilitation required after a long hospitalisation and the gradual process of regaining strength and independence. She provides insight into the emotional and psychological effects of her ordeal, including the value of psychological support and the importance of asking questions and staying informed throughout treatment. Jacinta also highlights her current involvement in health consumer work, supporting other patients and contributing to healthcare improvement. She underlines the significance of staying positive, surrounding oneself with supportive people, and being proactive with both physical health and communication with medical teams. For more information about the Leukaemia Foundation visit: https://www.leukaemia.org.au The Talking Blood Cancer Podcast is brought to you by the Leukaemia Foundation and is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/network. Mentioned in this episode: To help in our pursuit of better government support, sign our petition on cutcancercost.org.au. Cut the cost of cancer – Leukaemia Foundation

    The Road to Remission: Jacinta Smith’s Inspiring Blood Cancer Story

  7. Jun 17

    Surviving Aplastic Anemia: Carlos Soto on Resilience, Recovery, and Gratitude

    In this episode of the Talking Blood Cancer podcast, host Kate Arkadieff sits down with Carlos Soto to discuss his experience as a bone marrow transplant survivor after being diagnosed with aplastic anemia at the age of 20. Carlos details the challenges he faced following his diagnosis in Mexico, the difficulties in finding a diagnosis, the struggle to access treatment, and the reality of funding his own life-saving procedure due to limited healthcare coverage for unrelated bone marrow transplants. Carlos describes the emotional and physical challenges of living with a serious blood disorder, from experiencing extreme fatigue to coping with periods of isolation and depression. Explaining how community support, family, and fundraising were essential in securing the funds needed for a bone marrow transplant from a donor in Germany, and highlights the complicated logistics and emotional ups and downs that came with the process. Talking about his long recovery following a transplant, including ongoing health management, coping with side effects like blood clots, and the importance of continued medical follow-up and self-care. Carlos shares how techniques like meditation and mindfulness helped him navigate difficult periods, and he reflects on the role of gratitude throughout his journey. They discuss the impact of family, particularly the vital support from his mother, and how Carlos took personal responsibility in managing his health after transplant. Concluding with Carlos encouraging others to consider registering as bone marrow donors, noting how simple acts can give someone a second chance at life. For more information about the Leukaemia Foundation visit: https://www.leukaemia.org.au The Talking Blood Cancer Podcast is brought to you by the Leukaemia Foundation and is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/network. Mentioned in this episode: To help in our pursuit of better government support, sign our petition on cutcancercost.org.au. Cut the cost of cancer – Leukaemia Foundation

    Surviving Aplastic Anemia: Carlos Soto on Resilience, Recovery, and Gratitude

  8. Jun 3

    A Young Family’s Story: Sally and Sam on Parenting and Blood Cancer Journey

    In this episode of the Talking Blood Cancer podcast, host Kate Arkadieff sits down with Sam and his partner, Sally, to explore the reality of receiving and living with a blood cancer diagnosis as a young family in Australia. Sam shares the circumstances leading to his diagnosis of acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, describing the early symptoms, initial misdiagnosis, and the shock that followed. Sally recalls the immense emotional impact this news had on their lives, the challenges of facing such life-changing information while parenting a young child. Giving insights into the grief, denial, and anger experienced by both patient and caregiver as they navigate the uncertainty that comes with a serious illness. Delving into the practicalities of seeking help and emotional support. Sam and Sally discuss the importance of honest communication, setting boundaries, and reaching out to external communities, such as support circles and online groups, when immediate friends and family may not fully understand the situation. Both emphasise the value of being able to express difficult emotions openly, and how these shared experiences with others can help reduce feelings of isolation. They also talk candidly about the strain a cancer diagnosis places on relationships, and the importance of self-care for carers as well as patients. Touching on the added complexity of making treatment decisions and the necessity for individuals to trust their own choices in the face of difficult statistics and medical advice. Offering perspective and support for patients, families, and carers navigating the emotional and practical realities of blood cancer. This serves to remind listeners that while the journey is unique for everyone, no one has to walk it alone. For more information about the Leukaemia Foundation visit: https://www.leukaemia.org.au The Talking Blood Cancer Podcast is brought to you by the Leukaemia Foundation and is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/network. Mentioned in this episode: To help in our pursuit of better government support, sign our petition on cutcancercost.org.au. Cut the cost of cancer – Leukaemia Foundation

    A Young Family’s Story: Sally and Sam on Parenting and Blood Cancer Journey
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A podcast for people who have been diagnosed with a blood cancer and their loved ones. Sharing stories of others who have faced blood cancer in the hope that it will offer insight, inspiration and hope.

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