The Funny Things About Cancer

It's World Cancer Day, and I am happy to share some good news: a clear progress report along with my gratitude for a supportive medical team and loved ones. This episode brings with it a temporary pause of the podcast to regroup, schedule guests, and better bring forward humorous stories from patients, caregivers, and medical staff. The goal remains to find and share the unexpected, often funny mo...

Kerri recounts a recent phone conversation with her hilarious friend, Chemo-Sabe, whom she met in the chemotherapy infusion bay. During their laughter-filled catch-up, amongst other things, they spoke about how people show up beautifully, but sometimes miss the mark with their well-intentioned support.  The episode explores how a compliment like “superhero” can sometimes feel heavy or unhelpful, a...

Chemo brain describes the foggy, forgetful cognitive changes many people experience during or after cancer treatment, including trouble concentrating, finding words, remembering conversations, and multitasking. This episode is about my personal experience — a once-articulate speaker who suddenly struggled to find words, repeated stories, and became forgetful. Humor helped me, and others, to cope w...

Kerri, a breast cancer survivor who worked in a cancer center shares the candid, often funny and surprising conversations that happen between patients and staff. From questions about alcohol and chemo, losing the ability to taste, cravings, hair loss and bowel issues, the episode highlights how honesty creates connection, hope, and occasional laughter amid treatment. Cancer itself isn’t funny, but...

This episode finds humor in the unexpected side effects of cancer treatment — forced menopause ("heropause"), night sweats, hot flashes, mood swings, weight changes, and adult-onset acne — and how laughter helped cope. It also touches on male symptoms like andropause through a patient story, the practical challenges of sweating and dehydration, and how treatment and community support made the expe...

In "Pushing Through," the host shares her journey from a stage 0 breast cancer diagnosis to extended treatment, then returning to work at the cancer center where she was treated. She discusses the emotional toll of supporting patients while managing her own mental health, recounts a panic attack that led to an ER visit despite good physical test results, and emphasizes the importance of vulnerabil...

In this episode of "The Funny Things About Cancer," I dive into the life-changing decision of incorporating a medical port into cancer treatment, introducing the affectionate nickname "Miss Marble." Listen as I share personal anecdotes and humorous reflections on the challenges and comforts provided by this technological marvel. Discover how Miss Marble transformed routine treatment routines, offe...

Welcome to an engaging episode of "The Funny Things About Cancer," where host Kerri does a virtual chat with her nurse practitioner, Lindsey, to explore their unique and humorous journey through cancer treatment. Lindsey, an oncology nurse for 15 years, shares her first encounter with Kerri during her chemotherapy and how their bond grew over shared experiences and delicious cookies. Discover how...

In this heartfelt episode, join Kerri as she sits down with her friend and neighbor Keith, who shares his inspiring journey of being diagnosed and treated for prostate cancer. Keith’s story is a testament to the power of humor and positivity when faced with life's challenges, including his surprising and uplifting experience within the cancer center where Kerri works. Keith also opens up about his...

Cancer was never something I wanted to define me, yet it inevitably shaped my life in profound ways. In this episode, I share how my diagnosis both challenged and transformed me, providing new perspectives and unexpected gifts. At the very cancer center where I was treated, I now work to support other patients through my shared experiences, offering them the comfort and encouragement I found valua...

In this episode of "The Funny Things About Cancer," I delve into the unexpected side effects of chemotherapy on nails, a topic that isn’t discussed as much as other side effects, but one that is significantly impactful on daily life. Amidst the candid reflection on personal experiences with nail discoloration and loss, I share a lighthearted exploration of workplace camaraderie: colleagues s...

In this heartwarming episode, I pay tribute to Emma and Kori, two remarkable women who brought laughter and resilience to their cancer journeys. Despite the pain and loss that cancer often brings, Emma's sharp wit and Kori's infectious energy remind us of the power of humor in healing. Join me as I reflect on the funny moments shared with them, and explore how humor can be a beacon of light in cha...

Join Kerri on this episode of "The Funny Things About Cancer" as she welcomes her friend Ron, who shares his journey with a rare type of cancer - anal cancer. At 63, Ron reflects on his life changes after a shocking diagnosis during a routine colonoscopy. Despite the challenges, he emphasizes using humor and openness in discussions about his treatment and the importance of early detection through...

Here's another (short) anecdote about a funny thing about cancer! Repurposing tampons...

Cancer is nothing to laugh about, but the side effects can be. This podcast will share the ridiculous things that come along with a cancer diagnosis. Cancer patients, we're not alone. Support system members, you might just learn some stupidly funny stuff that we go through! I just hope this is helpful...