Only 4 Words

Join Karen and Melanie as Melanie discusses her recent health updates and the need for a treatment change. They discuss the importance of advocacy in cancer treatment and legislative efforts is highlighted. Karen shares cancer statistics and the need for communitysupport and awareness. Biomarker testing is becoming more accessible and is crucialfor personalized treatment. The podcast emphasizes th...

In this episode of the Only 4 Words podcast, Karenand Melanie welcome guests Anika Khan and Audrey Miller Garcia from the American Cancer Society's Cancer Action Network. They discuss the current legislative landscape affecting cancer patients, the challenges posed by budgetconstraints, and the impact of Medicaid changes. The importance of storytelling in advocacy is emphasized, particularly i...

Happy New Year! Thank you to everyone who has supported us, listened, shared and attended our in person gatherings. We appreciate each and every one of you. Here's to a healthy, happy 2026 for all of us!

From both of us and from the bottom of our hearts, we wish you a very Merry Christmas, good health and a an amazing 2026 ahead. Thank you for listening, for supporting us and walking along side us for this journey. We will be back in January with all new episodes.

In this episode of the Only 4 Words Podcast, hosts KarenWaddington and Melanie engage in a heartfelt conversation with Cobie Whitten, an Psyco-Oncology Consultant. Cobie shares her extensive background in psycho-oncology anddiscusses the profound impact of cancer on individuals and their families. The conversation explores various themes, including the importance of emotional support, coping strat...

In this episode of the Only Four Words podcast, Karen andMelanie reflect on their weekends and share personal stories about their experiences with cancer. They discuss their favorite things that can provide comfort and support to those undergoing treatment, including knitted knockersand local businesses that give back to the community. The conversation highlights the importance of kindness, emotio...

In this conversation, Karen Waddington shares her experienceof receiving unexpected medical news regarding a mass on her uterus. She emphasizes the importance of compassionate communication from her doctor, who took the time to discuss the results with her personally, demonstrating empathyand understanding during a stressful time. This highlights the critical role of patient care and the doctor-pa...

We just want to take a moment to thank each and every one of you for coming along on this journey with us. We are so grateful for you, our listeners, for those that have come on the podcast, and for those that show up at our in person gatherings and share their stories. Happy Thanksgiving! Karen and Melanie Our next in person gathering will be: Saturday (Note the change from Sunday) December 13th,...

In this episode, Karen and Melanie reflect on theirweekends, sharing personal stories about family gatherings and reconnecting with old friends. They delve into Thanksgiving traditions, discussing how these have evolved over the years, especially in light of personal losses andchanges. The conversation highlights the importance of creating new traditions while honoring the past, navigating grief,...

Laughter is the best medicine. In this episode, Karen and Melanie explore the themes oflaughter, gratitude, and the importance of community support. They share personal stories about comedy shows, the healing power of laughter, and the significance of expressing gratitude in various forms. The conversation highlights the impact of presence and support during challenging times, as well as the joy o...

In this episode, Karen and Melanie kick off a month-long series on gratitude, sharing personal stories, reflections oncommunity support, and the importance of expressing gratitude in everyday life. They discuss their weekend experiences, the joy of in-person gatherings, and the significance of connecting with new friends. The conversation delves into the benefits of gratitude, especially in the co...

In this episode of the Only 4 Words podcast, Karen and Melanie discuss a range of topics including personal healthupdates, the impact of Gamma Knife treatment, and the importance of clinical trials. Melanie shares her experiences with cancer treatments and the significance of monitoring health through regular scans. The conversation also touches on community events like the Making Strides Against...

Check out Part 2 of our conversation with Sandee Mills. In this episode of the Only 4 Words podcast, Karen, Melanie, and Sandee discuss the genetic and familial aspects of breast cancer, sharing personal stories and insights. Sandee talks about her family's history with breast cancer, the genetic testing they've undergone, and the challenges of living with a genetic predisposition to cance...

In this episode of Only 4 Words , Karen and Melanie talk with Sarah Brown , a metastatic breast cancer patient, about living with MBC, the power of community, and the meaning of Metastatic Breast Cancer Day . Sarah shares her journey, from treatment to hair loss and self-advocacy, reminding us that hope, resilience, and compassion are at the heart of every cancer story. Here is the information on...

"Please follow this show on Spotify. It really helps!" In this episode of the Only 4 Words podcast, hosts Karen andMelanie discuss the origins and impact of Breast Cancer Awareness Month (BCAM). They share personal stories and insights from their recent in-person gathering, highlighting the importance of community support and awareness. Theconversation delves into the commercialization o...

In this episode of the Only 4 Words Podcast, hosts Karen and Melanie discuss their personal experiences with cancer, theimportance of self-advocacy, the impact of community gatherings, and the significance of ongoing research and funding for cancer treatment. The episode also highlights a recent gala event that raised significant funds for cancer support programs. Our next In person gathering will...

In this episode of the Only Four Words podcast, hosts KarenWaddington and Melanie share their experiences attending the Seattle Hope Gala, a major fundraiser for the American Cancer Society. They discuss the emotional impact of the event, the generosity of the attendees, and the importance of funding cancer research. The episode also touches on the advancements in medical technology, including who...

In this episode of the Only Four Words Podcast, Karen and Melanie are joined by Alie Purcell, a nutritionist from APNutrition, to discuss the importance of nutrition in cancer prevention and treatment. Alie shares her journey into the field of nutrition, the evolving educational requirements for dietitians, and practical dietary recommendations for those undergoing cancer treatment. The conversati...

Join Melanie and Karen as they navigate the ups and downs of life with chronic illness. From medical updates to personal anecdotes, this episode is a testament to strength and positivity. They also share their love for books and how reading has been a source of comfort and escape.

In this heartfelt episode of the "Only Four Words" podcast, hosts Karen and Melanie are joined by Nerisa McQueen to discuss the emotional journey of life after cancer treatment. They explore the challenges of finding a "new normal," the importance of community support, and the mental health aspects often overlooked in the recovery process. The hosts share their personal experie...

In this episode, hosts Karen and Melanie engage with Sandee Mills, who shares her personal journey with breast cancer, including her initial diagnosis, family history, treatmentdecisions, and the impact of advancements in cancer detection. The conversation explores the emotional and physical challenges faced by Sandee and her family,the importance of genetic testing, and the role of non-medical tr...

In this episode of the Only For Words podcast, hosts Karen and Melanie share personal updates, including their experiences with family gatherings and vacations. They discuss the importance of community support in the cancer journey, particularly through in-person gatherings. Theconversation shifts to the topic of biopsies, where they share their personal experiences and insights on the different t...

Think all sunscreens are created equal? Think again—Karen and Melanie discuss it all in this can't-miss episode. They break down the differences between mineral and chemical sunscreens, decode SPF numbers, and explain why reapplication isn’t optional. Plus, they share personal stories and skin care tips for sensitive skin, including must-knows for those going through chemotherapy. Whether you’...

In this episode of the Only For Words podcast, hosts Melanieand Karen explore the significance of maintaining normalcy while facing health challenges. Through personal anecdotes and practical advice, they discuss the emotional and financial aspects of long-term treatments, the importance of apositive attitude, and the role of community support. Listeners are encouraged to find balance and resilien...

Join hosts Karen and Melanie as they welcome NerissaMcQueen to discuss the transformative experience of the Cancer Survivors Month conference. This episode delves into the empowering message that survivorship begins at diagnosis, explores the latest advancements in cancer treatment, and highlights the importance of nutrition and legal preparedness for those navigating the cancer journey. Resources...