What inspires a physician to dedicate their career to treating a rare cancer? And who are the people behind the white coats?

In this episode of The Eye Believe Podcast's "What's Up, Doc?" series, Megan sits down with Dr. Vincent Ma, a medical oncologist at the University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center, for a conversation that goes beyond medicine to explore the person behind the physician.

Dr. Ma shares his journey from growing up in Reno, Nevada, as the son of immigrant parents to becoming the first in his family to graduate from high school, college, and medical school. He talks about what sparked his passion for oncology, how he became involved in uveal melanoma research, and why improving treatment options for patients with this rare cancer remains so important to him.

We also learn about the exciting work happening at the University of Wisconsin, including its liver-directed therapy program and ongoing efforts to bring innovative treatments and clinical trials to patients in the Midwest.

But this episode isn't just about cancer treatment! We get to know Dr. Ma on a more personal level—his passions, personality, and the lessons his patients have taught him along the way.

In this episode, we talk about:

👨‍⚕️ Dr. Ma's upbringing, education, and journey into oncology

💙 What inspired his dedication to uveal melanoma patients and research

🔬 The development of the HEPZATO (melphalan hepatic delivery system) program at the University of Wisconsin

🩺 What he believes makes a great doctor and why treating the whole person matters

🤝 How his patients have shaped his approach to medicine, communication, and compassion

✨ The importance of hope and optimism throughout the cancer journey

🏃 Life outside the hospital, including travel, running, food, and his love of Wisconsin cheese curds!

☕ A few surprising answers to our rapid-fire questions—including his favorite drink and an irresistible Trader Joe's snack!

Throughout the conversation, Dr. Ma shares his commitment to advancing treatment options while making sure patients feel heard, understood, and supported.

Whether you've met Dr. Ma at an A Cure In Sight event, are familiar with his research, or are getting to know him for the first time, we think you'll enjoy this opportunity to see a different side of a physician dedicated to the ocular melanoma community.

💙 Connect with A Cure In Sight

Looking for ocular melanoma resources, educational events, support groups, or opportunities to connect with others?

Visit https://acureinsight.org/

Join our weekly Tuesday evening Zoom support group, explore upcoming events, and subscribe to our newsletter to stay connected!

Thank You to Our Podcast Sponsors

We're grateful to the organizations that help make The Eye Believe Podcast possible:

Ideaya Biosciences Delcath Systems Aura Biosciences Castle Biosciences Immunocore Natera

This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only and does not replace individualized medical advice. Please consult your healthcare team regarding treatment options and medical decisions.

#EyeBelievePodcast #WhatsUpDoc #VincentMa #OcularMelanoma #UvealMelanoma #CancerResearch #CancerCare #ACureInSight

My 15 years: Episode 17: Information Overload, Misinformation & Living for Today

When you're diagnosed with a rare cancer, it's natural to want answers. But how much information is too much?

In Episode 17 of My 15 Years, Melody, founder and president of A Cure in Sight, shares her perspective on navigating the overwhelming amount of information that comes with an ocular melanoma diagnosis.

From endless Google searches and medical terminology to conflicting advice, outdated research, and misinformation, Melody discusses why trying to learn everything at once can sometimes create more anxiety than clarity.

Drawing from 15 years of personal experience, she shares practical advice on finding trustworthy resources, recognizing misinformation, and giving yourself permission to learn at your own pace.

The conversation also explores the pressure patients sometimes feel to become experts in their diagnosis, the importance of asking questions, and why it's okay not to have all the answers.

And perhaps the most valuable lesson Melody has learned over the years?

Slow down. Focus on what you need to know today. Don't let fear of a future that may never happen steal the joy from the present.

Whether you're newly diagnosed, navigating long-term survivorship, or supporting someone you love, this episode offers perspective, encouragement, and a reminder that you don't have to figure everything out at once.

💙 Helpful Resources

Learn more about ocular melanoma, find trusted educational resources, and explore patient support programs at https://acureinsight.org/

🎬 Subscribe to follow the full My 15 Years series and hear more of Melody's experiences, lessons learned, and reflections on living with ocular melanoma.

🤝 Support ocular melanoma research, education, and patient support: https://acureinsight.org/donate/

Rare Cancer. Resilient Hope. Revolutionary Research.

#OcularMelanoma #CancerSurvivorship #ACureInSight #CancerAwareness #My15Years

What is it like to face not one, but two very different cancer diagnoses? And how does the experience of living with a rare cancer compare to one that affects so many people?

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, The Eye Believe Podcast brings together three remarkable women—Barbara Johnson, Sharlene Carlson, and Elizabeth—who share something unique: they have each faced both breast cancer and ocular melanoma.

In this special panel episode, these women open up about their diagnoses, the differences between navigating a common cancer and a rare one, and the emotional challenges that come with belonging to two cancer communities.

From the abundance of breast cancer resources to the isolation that can accompany an ocular melanoma diagnosis, their stories highlight why awareness, education, and meaningful connections matter so much.

In this episode, we discuss:

💗 The similarities and differences between breast cancer and ocular melanoma

💙 Finding support and community after two different cancer diagnoses

🎗️ How cancer has changed their lives, relationships, and perspectives

🩺 Navigating treatment, surveillance, and ongoing health concerns

💭 Managing scan anxiety, uncertainty, and difficult days

🌸 Finding joy through creativity, journaling, walking, and meaningful connections

🤝 The importance of peer support and connecting with others who understand

💪 Lessons learned through years of survivorship

The conversation also touches on genetic testing, family cancer histories, and the importance of awareness for men who may also develop breast cancer.

Through laughter, honesty, and personal reflection, these three women remind us that every cancer journey is different, but no one should have to navigate it alone.

Whether you're living with ocular melanoma, breast cancer, both diagnoses, or supporting someone who is, we hope this conversation helps you feel seen, understood, and connected.

💙 Find Your Community with A Cure In Sight

Looking for someone who understands what you're going through? Our Cure Companions program connects ocular melanoma patients with others who have walked a similar path.

Explore Cure Companions, patient resources, support programs, and upcoming events at:

🌐 https://acureinsight.org/

Thank You to Our Podcast Sponsors

We are grateful to the organizations helping make The Eye Believe Podcast possible:

Ideaya Biosciences Delcath Systems Aura Biosciences Castle Biosciences Immunocore Natera

The Eye Believe Podcast shares personal experiences and educational information. This episode is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare team regarding your individual health and treatment decisions.

#EyeBelievePodcast #BreastCancerAwarenessMonth #BreastCancer #OcularMelanoma #UvealMelanoma #CancerSurvivorship #RareCancer #ACureInSight