Episode 42- Show Notes:

In this episode of Combating Cancer, Gwen Kelly sits down with colon cancer survivor Emily Williams to share a powerful story of resilience, partnership, and hope. Diagnosed at 29 while building her career and planning a family, Emily opens up about the shock of the diagnosis, navigating treatment, and finding strength amid uncertainty. Together, they discuss survivorship, mindset, and the importance of holding on to hope—even when the future feels unclear.

Discussed in this episode:

• Welcome to Combating Cancer
• Emily's unexpected colon cancer diagnosis at 29
• Navigating emergency surgery, a colostomy, and chemotherapy
• The emotional impact of hearing the word "cancer."
• How cancer changes your perspective on time, plans, and the future
• The role of Emily's husband and support system during treatment
• Fear and uncertainty after finishing treatment
• Fertility concerns and life after cancer
• Mental health during survivorship
• Advice for those currently in treatment or supporting a loved one

More from Gwen:

Get in touch with our team for sponsorship inquiries or guest host submissions: gkelly@assethr.com

Follow and join the community:

Website: https://www.combatingcancer.org

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CombatingCancer

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/combating-cancer/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1BwfwuJT81/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/combatingcancer_?igsh=azNjM3RlcmJwcWxn

Episode 41- Show Notes:

In this episode of Combating Cancer, host Gwen Kelly shares her personal journey with stage three astrocytoma brain cancer and explores the often unspoken emotional side effect of surviving cancer: survivor's guilt. Gwen discusses how survivor's guilt can surface in moments of happiness, such as clear scans and birthdays. She criticizes societal reactions that dismiss these feelings with phrases like 'you should be grateful' and emphasizes that grief is not a competition. Gwen offers insight into how survivors can manage guilt without letting it define or destroy them, and she underscores that cancer, not survivors, is the true villain. The episode advocates for honesty in discussing the complex emotional truths of cancer, creating a space where such conversations can contribute to healing and remembrance.

Discussed in this episode:

• Welcome to Combating Cancer
• Understanding Survivor's Guilt
• The Emotional Weight of Survival
• Challenging Cultural Narratives
• Honoring Those We've Lost
• Finding Joy Amidst Grief
• Final Thoughts and Call to Action

More from Gwen:

Get in touch with our team for sponsorship inquiries or guest host submissions: gkelly@assethr.com

Follow and join the community:

Website: https://www.combatingcancer.org

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CombatingCancer

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/combating-cancer/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1BwfwuJT81/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/combatingcancer_?igsh=azNjM3RlcmJwcWxn

Episode 40- Show Notes:

In this episode of Combating Cancer, host Gwen Kelly shares her own cancer journey and introduces guest Kate Onk. Gwen discusses her personal battle with stage three astrocytoma brain cancer and the motivation behind creating this platform. Kate opens up about her father's glioblastoma diagnosis, the rapid progression of the disease, and her role as his primary caregiver. They explore the emotional challenges of such a journey, the importance of advocacy, and the significance of maintaining dignity in patient care. Kate also shares her transition into working on innovative brain cancer treatments, including her collaboration with Dr. Sloan and the development of a novel therapy combining laser interstitial thermal therapy and a chemosensitive liposome. They discuss the ongoing efforts to fund these advancements and offer advice to caregivers and those looking to turn their personal challenges into impactful actions.

Discussed in this episode:

• Welcome to Combating Cancer
• Meet Our Guest: Kate Onk
• Kate's Personal Story: Her Father's Battle with Brain Cancer
• The Diagnosis and Immediate Aftermath
• Navigating the Healthcare System
• Kate's Advocacy and Current Work
• Future Goals and Advice for Caregivers
• Conclusion and Call to Action

More from Kate:

The DNKO Fund via the Musella Foundation 501(c)(3) nonprofit: https://virtualtrials.org/dnko.cfm

The treatment paradigm closest to the clinic combines LITT with chemotherapy. More details are available here: https://www.dnko.net/our-scientific-approach

More from Gwen:

Get in touch with our team for sponsorship inquiries or guest host submissions: gkelly@assethr.com

Follow and join the community:

Website: https://www.combatingcancer.org

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CombatingCancer

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/combating-cancer/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1BwfwuJT81/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/combatingcancer_?igsh=azNjM3RlcmJwcWxn

Episode 39- Show Notes:

In this deeply honest episode of Combating Cancer, host Gwen Kelly opens up about the uncomfortable and often unspoken feelings of resentment towards healthy people while battling cancer. She shares her personal journey with stage three astrocytoma brain cancer, discussing the emotional toll of feeling resentful and how it stems from unprocessed grief, fear, and loss of control. Gwen emphasizes the importance of acknowledging these feelings rather than shaming them, offering a compassionate space for those affected by cancer to process their trauma emotionally. Join this crucial conversation about the hidden emotional struggles in cancer journeys and the importance of creating boundaries and understanding one's pain.

Discussed in this episode:

• Welcome to Combating Cancer
• Gwen's Personal Cancer Journey
• Creating a Real Space for Cancer Conversations
• The Uncomfortable Truth About Resentment
• Understanding the Roots of Resentment
• The Emotional Impact of Cancer
• Healing Through Acknowledgment and Compassion
• Closing Thoughts and Community Support

More from Gwen:

Get in touch with our team for sponsorship inquiries or guest host submissions: gkelly@assethr.com

Follow and join the community:

Website: https://www.combatingcancer.org

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CombatingCancer

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/combating-cancer/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1BwfwuJT81/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/combatingcancer_?igsh=azNjM3RlcmJwcWxn

Episode 38- Show Notes:

In this episode of Combating Cancer, host Gwen Kelly interviews Joey Hamann, who shares his journey with Ewing sarcoma, a rare bone cancer diagnosed during his junior year of high school. His experience included chemotherapy, radiation, and a bone marrow transplant from his brother Johnny. Joey discusses the challenges of facing cancer at a young age, the emotional strain on his family, and the importance of faith and community support. The episode highlights Hamann's Helping Hands, a foundation Joey and his family established to support pediatric cancer patients. His story reflects resilience, hope, and the power of family and community.

Discussed in this episode:

• Welcome to Combating Cancer
• Being diagnosed with cancer as a high school athlete
• Ewing sarcoma and the reality of rare cancer diagnoses
• Chemotherapy, radiation, and bone marrow transplant experiences
• Losing hair and confronting the emotional side of treatment
• The impact of family, faith, and community support
• Life after cancer and making it to graduation
• Giving back through Hamann's Helping Hands
• Advice for patients and caregivers navigating cancer

More from Joey:

Website: https://hamannshelpinghands.org

Donate: https://hamannshelpinghands.org/donate-now/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100088357356185

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hamannshelpinghands/

More from Gwen:

Get in touch with our team for sponsorship inquiries or guest host submissions: gkelly@assethr.com

Follow and join the community:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CombatingCancer

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/combating-cancer/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1BwfwuJT81/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/combatingcancer_?igsh=azNjM3RlcmJwcWxn

Episode 37- Show Notes:

In this episode of Combating Cancer, host Gwen Kelly opens up about her personal experiences of dating while battling stage three astrocytoma brain cancer. She reflects on the challenges of seeking normalcy and connection during treatment, sharing her past fears and the unexpected support she received. Gwen offers advice on understanding emotional maturity, sharing trauma on one's terms, and being honest about the realities of dating with cancer. She emphasizes that cancer doesn't make someone unlovable but instead reveals the depth of true love. Gwen concludes by encouraging listeners to believe in their right to love, regardless of their diagnosis.

Discussed in this episode:

• Welcome to Combating Cancer
• Personal Cancer Journey
• Introducing Today's Topic: Dating with Cancer
• Challenges and Guilt in Dating with Cancer
• Navigating Disclosure in Relationships
• Advice for Dating with Cancer
• Jake's Support During Scans
• Encouragement for Listeners
• Final Thoughts and Encouragement

More from Gwen:

Get in touch with our team for sponsorship inquiries or guest host submissions: gkelly@assethr.com

Follow and join the community:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CombatingCancer

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/combating-cancer/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1BwfwuJT81/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/combatingcancer_?igsh=azNjM3RlcmJwcWxn

Episode 36- Show Notes:

In this episode of Combating Cancer, host Gwen Kelly welcomes Dave McKeag, a pancreatic cancer survivor and her former middle school principal. Dave shares his personal journey from his diagnosis in October 2021 through his treatment and recovery, emphasizing the importance of a positive attitude, physical fitness, and a robust support network. The discussion highlights Dave's experiences with chemotherapy, the Whipple surgery, and his approach to staying active and engaged despite the challenges of cancer. Dave's story is one of resilience, determination, and hope, offering valuable insights and inspiration for anyone affected by cancer.

Discussed in this episode:

• Welcome to Combating Cancer
• Introducing Our Special Guest: Dave McKeag
• Dave's Life Before Diagnosis
• The Diagnosis and Initial Treatment
• Facing the Challenges of Cancer
• The Importance of Attitude and Support
• The Whipple Surgery Experience
• Life After Cancer: Staying Active and Positive
• Final Thoughts and Advice
• Closing Remarks

More from Gwen:

Get in touch with our team for sponsorship inquiries or guest host submissions: gkelly@assethr.com

Follow and join the community:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CombatingCancer

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/combating-cancer/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1BwfwuJT81/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/combatingcancer_?igsh=azNjM3RlcmJwcWxn

Episode 35- Show Notes:

In this heartfelt episode of Combating Cancer, host Gwen Kelly shares her personal journey with stage three astrocytoma brain cancer, diagnosed at the age of 19. Gwen emphasizes the emotional weight of living with cancer, touching on the simultaneous existence of gratitude and grief. She provides a raw and unfiltered look at the complexities of surviving cancer, highlighting the importance of allowing oneself to feel and process emotions without a strict timeline. Gwen hopes to create a space where listeners, whether patients or caregivers, feel seen, understood, and less alone in their experiences.

Discussed in this episode:

• Welcome to Combating Cancer
• Personal Cancer Journey
• Purpose of the Podcast
• Who This Episode is For
• The Weight of Grief and Survival
• The Complexity of Emotions
• Reflections and Realizations
• Living with Tension
• No Right Way to Process Cancer
• Final Thoughts and Encouragement

More from Gwen:

Get in touch with our team for sponsorship inquiries or guest host submissions: gkelly@assethr.com

Follow and join the community:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CombatingCancer

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/combating-cancer/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1BwfwuJT81/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/combatingcancer_?igsh=azNjM3RlcmJwcWxn