Living Beyond Cancer

In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Jennie Yoost, Professor of Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology at Marshall University. Together, we explore fertility preservation and treatment options for children and adolescents undergoing cancer treatment. Dr. Yoost shares why early conversations about fertility and reproductive health matter, the options available to young patients and their families, an...

Join us as we sit down with  Marisa Peters , a colorectal cancer survivor and passionate advocate, to hear her inspiring journey through diagnosis, treatment, and life after cancer. Marisa shares how she navigated the challenges of managing a career, raising a family, and adapting to the evolving landscape of cancer care. This episode offers heartfelt insights for both patients and caregivers on s...

Join us as we chat with Elise Glad, a clinical licensed therapist and certified sex therapist, about the importance of sexual health for cancer patients and survivors. Discover how counseling can help regain intimacy and improve quality of life, and learn practical tips for seeking treatment and overcoming misconceptions. Tune in for expert insights and valuable advice on advocating for your sexua...

Join us as we delve into the inspiring story behind the Growing Hope program, which partners local farms with WV cancer centers to provide fresh produce and meal kits to adults, children, and families with cancer in West Virginia. The episode features an interview with the program leaders who make it all possible. Learn about the challenges and triumphs of implementing and sustaining this vital pr...

In this episode, we explore the invaluable services provided by Triage Cancer, an organization dedicated to helping individuals navigate the practical aspects of a cancer diagnosis. Our guest, Joanna Doran, walks us through the extensive resources available on their website, offering a clear and easy-to-follow guide to finding the information that supports your needs. Whether you're a patient, car...

In this episode, we welcome Connecting Champions leader, Sidney Kushner. Connecting Champions is an organization dedicated to supporting young adults and kids who have been diagnosed with cancer. Learn how they pair these individuals with mentors who share their passions, providing companionship and understanding through every stage of their journey. Hear powerful stories of connection, resilience...

Today, we're honored to introduce Prashanti Atluri, MD, a distinguished oncologist and advocate for colorectal cancer awareness and screening. With a wealth of experience in oncology, Dr. Atluri has devoted her career to improving outcomes for those affected by colorectal cancer. Join us as we explore the significance of early detection, screening protocols, and the latest advancements in treatmen...

In this episode, we will delve into the important topic of fertility preservation. Joining us in this podcast are two esteemed guests: Dr. Ryan Heitmann, an expert in reproductive medicine and Director for the WVU Medicine Center for Reproductive Medicine, and Brittany Jarrett, an Advanced Practice Professional also from the WVU Medicine Center for Reproductive Medicine. Together, they will unrave...

In this episode, we will delve into the important topic of fertility preservation. Joining us in this podcast are two esteemed guests: Dr. Ryan Heitmann, an expert in reproductive medicine and Director for the WVU Medicine Center for Reproductive Medicine, and Brittany Jarrett, an Advanced Practice Professional also from the WVU Medicine Center for Reproductive Medicine. Together, they will unrave...

In this episode, Bhavana "Tina" Bhatnagar, DO will serve as your guide to the world of clinical trials for cancer. In this podcast, we unravel the pathway for patients to access these pivotal trials, understanding why they are crucial for medical advancements. Dr. Bhatnagar expertly navigates the significance of clinical trials, dispelling the misconception that they equate to substandard care. Tu...

In this episode,  we will explore the intricate world of lung cancer, screening, diagnosis, and treatment options. We have the privilege of having Dr. Kyle Chapman, a highly respected pulmonary and critical care medicine physician at Ruby Memorial Hospital, who is deeply involved in the Lung Cancer Screening Program, as our guest. Together, we'll journey through the critical aspects of lung health...

In this episode, Samantha Hall, APRN, and Jordan Hill, PharmD, discuss triple-negative breast cancer; the discussion focuses on the latest research and how it has resulted in more effective treatments, in addition to the psychosocial issues that may affect patients, and caregivers/loved ones. As the dialogue unfolds, listeners will learn about resources, how to find the right physician, and what q...

In this episode, a Nurse Practitioner at Mary Babb Randolph Cancer Center, Holly Shapiro, discusses sexual health and intimacy after a cancer diagnosis; ​this includes what are realistic expectations, what might be causing pain with intercourse, and anxieties related to contraception. The conversation covers how to manage issues and offers solutions to many common sexual ​challenges following a ca...

In this episode, Dr. Thomas Jaffe, MD, and Brittany Sabo, APRN, join us for a candid conversation on medical management therapies. The discussion covers challenges with sexual functioning that can become more common in men as they age and develop certain medical conditions. Additionally, some kinds of cancer, particularly those that affect organs in the pelvis (such as the prostate and bladder), p...

In this podcast episode, Julie Schuder shares her personal journey with childhood cancer and gives advice on how to advocate for yourself at all ages. Showcasing her unrelenting drive to be happy despite her difficult journey, listen to Julie share what impacted her during and in the decades following her cancer care. She invites other survivors to share in her determined spirit. This podcast is f...

In this episode, the Associate Medical Director for the Center for Integrative Pain Management, Dr. Corinne Stuart discusses the various reasons survivors experience pain and neuropathy while on the continuum of a cancer diagnosis. The conversation explores ways to manage and treat the nerves that cause pain utilizing traditional, alternative, and complementary medicine. Dr. Stuart provides many r...

In this episode, the WVU Cancer Institute chaplain, Devan Voight, was interviewed to discuss how illness can often disrupt the sense of purpose and meaning that we have in our life. The conversation explores what it looks like to experience challenges to one's sense of purpose and meaning, practices to recognize this, and ways to begin cultivating a new sense of purpose and meaning in one's life,...

In this episode, the WVU Cancer Institute chaplain, Devan Voight, was interviewed to discuss how illness can often disrupt the sense of purpose and meaning that we have in our life. The conversation explores what it looks like to experience challenges to one's sense of purpose and meaning, practices to recognize this, and ways to begin cultivating a new sense of purpose and meaning in one's life,...

Continuing our conversation with Andi Hasley, breast cancer survivor, and state Coalition Manager, this podcast episode features Andi's children. During this episode, Audrey and Grant discuss what helped them the most during their mother's cancer treatment, how they dealt with the news, advice for others their age dealing with the diagnosis of a loved one, and tips on keeping positive during treat...

Continuing our conversation with Andi Hasley, breast cancer survivor, and state coalition coordinator, the next two podcast episodes feature Andi's family. During this episode, Jamie Hasley, Andi's husband, discusses what helped him the most during his wife's cancer treatment, how they shared the news with their children, advice for other caregivers, and tips on keeping track of treatment details....

In this podcast episode Andi Hasley, MA – breast cancer survivor and Mountains of Hope State Coalition Coordinator – shares her personal journey with cancer. Andi offers helpful tips on what to plan for, how to support those you love, questions to ask your doctor, and how social media helped her help others. Join Andi as she shares what made a difference for her in cancer care and invites other su...

WVU's Megan Burkart, DPT, CLT shares how physical therapy can help individuals cope with lung cancer's most common side effects in this episode. Dr. Burkart is an expert in helping cancer patients incorporate small lifestyle changes with significant results. Whether you are newly diagnosed, living with lung cancer, or caring for someone with lung cancer, she has good news! Exercise can help improv...

In this episode, WVU's Dr. Nadia Falah discusses the innovative world of cancer genetics including genetic counseling, testing, and familial risk factors. She describes what types of cancer are inherited; when patients and family members should seek genetic consultation; and what genetic markers mean for you and your family. Also, Dr. Falah answers commonly asked questions around cost, insurance c...

In this second episode of our two-part series on financial concerns, cancer experts from the Patient Advocate Foundation and the WVU Cancer Institute discuss how to be your own best advocate and where to ask for help. They offer suggestions for managing health insurance, what questions to ask your care team, and Patient Advocate Foundation resources around case management and financial aid. This p...

In this episode, experts from the Patient Advocate Foundation and the WVU Cancer Institute discuss how financial challenges associated with cancer care impact patients' lives during and after treatment. Their conversation goes beyond the basics and includes how to look for policies you didn't know you had, tips to consider when exploring supplemental insurance, and key things to have prepared when...