Strength in Love: Navigating the Journey as a Cancer Caregiver

In this poignant episode of the Bench to Bedside podcast, Dr. Roy Jensen, vice chancellor and director of The University of Kansas Cancer Center, speaks with Cheryl Jernigan, Lead Patient Research Advocate with Patient and Investigator Voices Organizing Together (PIVOT). Cheryl shares her powerful story of being both a cancer survivor herself and a co-survivor and caregiver to her husband, who battled both prostate cancer and tonsil cancer caused by human papillomavirus (HPV). Their discussion explores the emotional and physical challenges of caregiving, the importance of research and patient advocacy, and the vital support systems needed for caregivers. Cheryl's experience offers invaluable insight into balancing personal health while providing care, highlighting resources such as Turning Point and Gilda's Club to aid caregivers on their journey.

Do you have questions about cancer? Call our Bench to Bedside Hotline at (913) 588-3880 or email us at benchtobedside@kumc.edu, and your comment or question may be shared on an upcoming episode! If you appreciated this episode, please share, rate, subscribe and leave a review. To ensure you get our latest updates, For the latest updates, follow us on the social media channel of your choice by searching for KU Cancer Center.

Links from this Episode:

• Learn more about KU Cancer Center’s patient research advocacy program, PIVOT
• Read Cheryl’s blog post about PIVOT on the KU Cancer Center website
• Find cancer caregiver resources at KU Cancer Center
• Learn more about Turning Point's services for cancer patients and caregivers at KU Cancer Center