Life on Pause

Penn State Health
  • 5.0 (11)
  • PERSONAL JOURNALS
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY
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. 2 DAYS AGO · 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

  2. NOV 12

    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

  3. OCT 29 · 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

  4. OCT 22 · 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

  5. OCT 15

    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

  6. AUG 30

    Exploring Family Planning After Cancer: Joe Apgar’s Adoption Journey

    In this compelling episode of "Life on Pause," host Jill Robertson sits down with Joe Apgar, a cancer survivor and CEO of Pelotonia, to explore the deeply personal journey of family planning after a cancer diagnosis. Joe shares his and his wife’s decision to pursue adoption following his battle with testicular cancer and the challenges they faced along the way. From discussing the emotional complexities of adoption to the importance of open communication with birth parents, Joe offers invaluable insights for anyone navigating the delicate balance of building a family after a life-altering health experience. Whether you're considering adoption or simply seeking inspiration, this episode is a powerful testament to resilience, love, and the many ways families are created. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and follow us on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts! 0:00 - Introduction to Joe Apgar 2:03 - Joe’s Journey to Fatherhood 5:13 - Choosing Adoption 9:59 - Adoption Process: Challenges and Insights 14:34 - Navigating the Adoption Paperwork 17:24 - Financial Considerations and Support 22:43 - Building Relationships Through Open Adoption 26:06 - Parenting After Cancer _________________________________________________________________ #cancerandfertility #adoptionaftercancer #adoptionresourcesforcancersurvivors

    38 min

  7. AUG 29

    Infertility After Cancer: Reflections on Parenthood and Life

    In this poignant episode of Life on Pause, hosts Corene Parrish and Jill Robertson dive into the complex and emotional journey of navigating infertility, especially in the wake of a cancer diagnosis. Corene shares her personal experiences as both a cancer survivor and someone facing infertility, reflecting on how these challenges have shaped her perspectives on parenthood and life. The conversation touches on the biological drive to become a parent, the impact of early life experiences on future parenting, and the delicate balance of nature versus nurture. They also explore how life-altering experiences like cancer can influence one's approach to raising children, whether through biological means, adoption, or simply nurturing the lives of others in meaningful ways. Tune in to hear a candid discussion that offers comfort, insight, and hope to anyone grappling with infertility or the aftermath of a serious illness. Whether you’re a cancer survivor, dealing with infertility, or simply interested in understanding these sensitive issues, this episode provides valuable perspectives and a sense of community. Watch now and don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this video to help others who may benefit from this conversation. 0:00 - Discussing Infertility and Cancer 1:20 - Corene's Childhood Dreams of Motherhood 2:16 - Impact of Infertility on the Desire to Parent 3:30 - Nature vs. Nurture in Parenting 4:28 - Cancer's Influence on Parenting Philosophy 6:02 - The Unpredictable Journey of Parenthood 7:27 - Reflections on Life Beyond Parenthood ______________________________________________________________ #cancerandfertility #cancerreoveryandfertility #Cancerpatientfertilityadvice

    8 min

  8. AUG 28

    Dealing with Infertility & Cancer: A Survivor’s Perspective

    In this heartfelt episode of Life on Pause, Corene Parrish shares her personal journey of managing life after being diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma at the age of 16. Join Corene and Jill Robertson as they discuss the emotional challenges of dealing with cancer, infertility, and the struggle to maintain control in the face of overwhelming circumstances. Corene offers deep insights into how her experiences have shaped her self-perception, the importance of self-compassion, and the ways she finds strength through her support system, music, and fitness. This episode is a must-watch for anyone facing similar challenges or seeking inspiration on how to cope with life’s unexpected hurdles. 0:00 - Corene’s Cancer Diagnosis and Webinar Recap 1:11 - Impact of Cancer on Self-Identity 2:03 - Struggles with Control and Infertility 3:28 - Support Systems and Coping Mechanisms 5:04 - Body Image and Exercise Post-Diagnosis _________________________________________________________________ #fertilityaftercancertreatment #livingwithcancer #cancerandfertility

    8 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 - 2024
  • Episodes
    60
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 517748
  • Show Website
    Life on Pause

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