Let's Talk About Your Breasts

Dorothy Gibbons, CEO & Cofounder

The Rose Breast Center of Excellence presents Let's Talk About Your Breasts with Dorothy Gibbons. Each week, Dorothy hosts candid conversations with an array of people in the breast cancer community. From doctors and employees to donors and individuals who influence policy, you'll learn all there is to know about the disease which impacts so many women in our community.

  1. 3H AGO

    Cold Caps and Warm Hearts: Two Friends Versus Breast Cancer

    How do you respond when a friend faces a diagnosis that changes everything? What does real support look like during breast cancer treatment? In this episode, you’ll hear how friendship, early detection, and self-advocacy made a difference. You’ll also learn about the challenges of treatment, the role of caregivers, and ways communities rally when it’s needed most. - Discover what it takes to face fear and make critical decisions. - Hear two friends describe finding strength and asking for help. - See why early action and support networks can impact recovery. Support The Rose HERE. Subscribe to Let’s Talk About Your Breasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, and wherever you get your podcasts. Key Questions Answered How did Anne-Laure discover her breast cancer? How old was Anne-Laure when she was diagnosed with breast cancer? What was Anne-Laure’s experience with her initial diagnosis? How did Anne-Laure finally receive an accurate diagnosis? What type of breast cancer was Anne-Laure diagnosed with? How soon after diagnosis did Anne-Laure begin treatment? Did Ann-Laure use cold caps to try to keep her hair during chemotherapy? What was the role of friends and support in Anne-Laure’s journey? How did Anne-Laure and her husband communicate about her diagnosis and treatment? How did Anne-Laure handle the emotional impact and fear during her breast cancer journey? How did Anne-Laure and Rochelle support each other as friends through the process? What advice does Anne-Laure offer about early detection and self-advocacy? How did the experience change Anne-Laure’s approach to accepting help? How did Anne-Laure process and talk to herself through her treatment? How did Anne-Laure and her community celebrate treatment milestones? Timestamped Overview 00:00 Self-Discovery of Unusual Growth 03:25 Considering a Second Opinion 09:06 "Princess Diana's Influence on Cold Caps" 11:23 Hair Perception and Dry Ice Delivery 15:52 Hospital Freezers: Aiding Neuropathy Treatment 17:00 Finding Humor in Cold Caps 22:59 "Embracing Limits and Early Detection" 24:01 Early Detection Saved My Life 29:25 "Caregiver Struggles and Attention" 32:07 Support Network Eases Transition 35:37 Proactive Help and Support 38:20 Overcoming Fear Through Understanding See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    44 min
  2. 2D AGO

    The Adventurer’s Guide to Surviving Breast Cancer

    Trusting your instincts can change everything. Dorothy Gibbons and Jenny Fitzpatrick talk about early breast cancer diagnosis, persistent self-advocacy, and navigating treatment as a young mother. Jenny Fitzpatrick describes celebrating survivorship, building community, and creating new traditions. Stories connect lives. Experiences shape what comes next. Please consider sharing this episode, or making a donation at therose.org so more women receive breast cancer screening and care. Subscribe to Let’s Talk About Your Breasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, and wherever you get your podcasts. Key Questions Answered 1. How old was Jenny Fitzpatrick when she was diagnosed with breast cancer, and how was it discovered? 2. Was Jenny initially misdiagnosed, and what was the medical response? 3. What symptoms or clues made Jenny pursue a second medical opinion? 4. What was unusual about Jenny’s breast cancer diagnosis and treatment experience? 5. What treatments did Jenny receive, and did she undergo radiation therapy? 6. Why did Jenny opt for a prophylactic second mastectomy, and how did her doctor respond? 7. How long did Jenny’s reconstruction process take, and why was it prolonged? 8. How does Jenny celebrate her breast cancer survivorship annually? 9. What inspired Jenny to start organizing adventure trips, and what are some examples? 10. How did Jenny first learn about the Rose, and why did she become a supporter? Timestamped Overview 00:00 Discovering Health Concerns 04:41 Realization in the Mirror 07:03 Treating Mind and Body 12:12 Breaking Patterns, Trying New Things 16:12 92 Years of Friendship 19:50 The Car Wash Chronicles 22:41 Adventurous Roots in the Northwest 23:43 Empowering Adventures for Women 27:59 Extra Years, Extra Love 30:06 Gratitude and Politeness See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    32 min
  3. FEB 5

    Friendship in the Face of Breast Cancer

    Dorothy is joined by Ronnie Haggerty, a board member of The Rose, who recounts her personal story of rallying together with friends years ago when a close friend was diagnosed with breast cancer. She describes the important role friends can play during this time; a role no other person can fill. This was also the first time she encountered seeing the different ways The Rose helps women. Known for her deep understanding of philanthropy and the regulations governing 501(c)3 organizations, Ronnie has spent her career helping nonprofits grow and become sustainable. If you’ve ever thought about starting a nonprofit, Ronnie has some sage advice that may surprise you. The nonprofit sector brings its own kind of challenges, yet they fill the gap in providing resources and services to the community. Please consider sharing this episode, or making a donation at therose.org so more women receive breast cancer screening and care. Subscribe to Let’s Talk About Your Breasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, and wherever you get your podcasts. Key Questions Answered 1.) How can nonprofits operate effectively? 2.) What are key things to consider when determining whether to start a nonprofit? 3.) What are some of the significant challenges uninsured women face in terms of accessing healthcare and what can nonprofits do to help? Chapters 00:00 The Importance of Nonprofits and Best Business Practices 09:33 Advice for Starting a Nonprofit 26:16 Challenges Faced by Uninsured Women 28:40 The Role of The Rose in Providing Healthcare Access See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    31 min
  4. FEB 3

    Overcoming Language and Financial Barriers in Breast Cancer Care

    Asking for help is never easy. Dorothy Gibbons introduces Kathia, manager at The Rose’s southeast location. Three departments fall under Kathia’s leadership: medical records, registration, and sponsorship programs. The Rose offers care and access, removing barriers like language, cost, and transportation. Even after diagnosis, bilingual patient navigators remain with patients, helping them through paperwork and treatment. Preventive care and self-advocacy are emphasized throughout. Please consider sharing this episode, or making a donation at therose.org so more women receive breast cancer screening and care. Subscribe to Let’s Talk About Your Breasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, and wherever you get your podcasts. Key Questions Answered 1. What is Kathia’s role at The Rose?2. What does 'removing barriers' mean at The Rose?3. How does the sponsorship program at The Rose work?4. Why is it hard for women to ask for help regarding their healthcare?5. What is the process for patients who may need sponsorship?6. How does Kathia personally relate to patients at The Rose?7. What support does The Rose provide for patients diagnosed with breast cancer and facing barriers?8. How does the new system at The Rose improve patient experience? Timestamped Overview 00:00 Patient-Centered Care Program 05:20 Building Relationships Before Sponsorship 08:07 Healthcare Barriers for Non-English Speakers 11:02 Support Resources for Cancer Patients 13:13 Patient Education Process Explained 18:15 Teaching Self-Advocacy to Kids 22:32 Compassionate Staff with Shared Experiences 23:13 Connection and Mission Forward See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    25 min
  5. JAN 29

    Busting Breast Cancer Myths: Fact vs. Fiction with Dr. Raz

    Misinformation still finds its way into the conversation. Dorothy Gibbons and Dr. Raz dive into breast cancer myths, mammogram safety, risk factors, and common social media claims. They sort through concerns about bras, deodorants, cell phones, diet, and trauma. Evidence and screening guidelines guide the facts during this episode. Please consider sharing this episode, or making a donation at therose.org so more women receive breast cancer screening and care. Subscribe to Let’s Talk About Your Breasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, and wherever you get your podcasts. Key Questions Answered 1. Does getting a mammogram increase your risk of developing breast cancer due to radiation exposure? 2. Why is there so much controversy and skepticism surrounding mammograms and breast cancer screening, especially compared to other screenings? 3. Is breast cancer only a concern for women with a family history of the disease? 4. Is breast cancer purely an older woman’s disease, or can younger women get it too? 5. Does wearing an underwire bra or any bra cause breast cancer? 6. Can deodorant use (especially with aluminum) lead to breast cancer? 7. Is carrying a cell phone in your bra (or close to your body) a cause of breast cancer? 8. Does hair dye or using plastic water bottles increase breast cancer risk? 9. Does hormone replacement therapy (HRT) increase breast cancer risk? 10. Can breast injury or trauma cause breast cancer? 11. Does obesity relate to breast cancer risk? 12. Can animals sense breast cancer in humans? 13. Are alternative treatments or internet trends (like ivermectin or bee venom) effective against breast cancer? 14. Is it important for patients to trust their doctor and treatment process? Timestamped Overview 00:00 Mammogram Radiation: Safe and Essential 04:22 Annual Screening Controversy Explained 08:28 Breast Cancer: Risks and Incidence 11:14 Impact of Treating Women's Diseases 13:52 Aluminum in Deodorant Safe 18:29 HRT Risks and Tapering Explained 25:52 Ivermectin Misuse and Clinical Trials 28:51 Health's Role in Cancer Prevention 29:47 Poison Necessary to Fight Cancer See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    32 min
  6. JAN 27

    The Studio That Heals: Ballet, Children, and the Heart of Survival

    Cookie Joe has spent her life teaching dance, shaping not just technique but character, faith, and compassion in her students. When cancer struck, she embraced it as a purposeful challenge, inspiring her community through fundraisers, open conversations, and shared strength. Her story is a celebration of resilience, community, and faith over fear. If this conversation matters to you, share the episode with your family and friends and consider making a donation at therose.org so more women receive breast cancer screening and care. Subscribe to Let’s Talk About Your Breasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, and wherever you get your podcasts. Key Questions Answered How did Cookie begin dancing so early in life? Why is dance such an important part of Cookie's identity? What unique fundraiser is Cookie's dance school doing for breast cancer awareness? Why are butterflies used as an emblem in her school’s breast cancer awareness activities? What types of dance and performing arts does Cookie's school teach, and who attends? How does Cookie make dance accessible to children with disabilities or limited opportunities? In what ways does dance challenge and engage the brain, and how might it affect cognitive health? How does dance serve as spiritual practice and meditation for Cookie? What was Cookie's experience with breast cancer, particularly during COVID? How did breast cancer impact Cookie's relationships and outlook? Timestamped Overview 00:00 From Doctor Dreams to Music 03:15 "From Volunteer to Choir Teacher" 09:17 Finding Humor During Adversity 11:44 "Trust Me, We'll Be Fine" 15:59 Community Fair with Local Support 18:50 Community Support Through Collaboration 23:17 "Building Trust Through Connection" 26:40 "Empowering Women Through The Rose" 28:30 "Embracing Unique Personal Stories" See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    33 min
  7. JAN 22

    From Shame Loop to Self-Advocacy: Secrets to Loving Your Breasts at Any Age

    Keyanna McKenzie went from navigating family history and personal health challenges to creating the "Boobies and Babes" event, empowering women to prioritize their health. Her mission is to break the silence, foster community, and make conversations about breasts and self-exams a normal part of life. Inspired by her grandmothers and her own experiences, she now advocates for advocacy, awareness, and living dreams fully. If this conversation matters to you, share the episode with your family and friends and consider making a donation at therose.org so more women receive breast cancer screening and care. Subscribe to Let’s Talk About Your Breasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, and wherever you get your podcasts. Key Questions Answered How did Keyanna first learn about The Rose? What led Keyanna to seek breast health care at a young age? What was Keyanna's first experience at The Rose like? Does Keyanna have a family history of breast cancer? How did Keyanna discover her own breast lump? How did Keyanna process the discovery of her lump and what was her next step? What role did The Rose play in Keyanna’s diagnostic journey? What inspired Keyanna to create the “Boobies and Babes” event? What is unique about the “Boobies and Babes” event, and who is it for? How does Keyanna address the stigma or lack of conversation among young women regarding breast health? Why is genetic counseling and understanding risk factors important, according to Keyanna? What challenges does Keyanna identify for women in accessing breast health care? Timestamped Overview 00:00 "Breast Cancer Journey in Houston" 05:49 Pain, Caffeine, and Reality 09:41 "Normalizing Breast Health Conversations" 11:11 Young Women’s Health Awareness 13:54 "Advocating Wellness and Awareness" 19:37 "Honoring Memories and Love" 21:16 Edo Event With Modern Flair 23:34 "Be Your Own Advocate" 26:45 Empowering Women & Young Creatives See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    29 min
4.8
out of 5
25 Ratings

About

The Rose Breast Center of Excellence presents Let's Talk About Your Breasts with Dorothy Gibbons. Each week, Dorothy hosts candid conversations with an array of people in the breast cancer community. From doctors and employees to donors and individuals who influence policy, you'll learn all there is to know about the disease which impacts so many women in our community.