In this special episode, MSK patients, caregivers and clinicians share the miracles they’ve witnessed, even in the darkest of times. From life-saving medicine to gratitude for caregivers and a surprise romance, these stories remind us of the power of human connection. Episode Chapters:1:15 - A Marathon Bond5:09 - 2000 Miles Apart, United by a Breakthrough7:55 - Showing Up for the Little Things9:42 - Love After Loss, With Help from Two Angels13:10 - More Time, More Memories: Marley’s Gift14:57 - A Village for Ryan: MSK’s Creative Care19:39 - The Healing Touch: Cecilia’s Miracle22:13 - Cancer Hits Home for Dr. Reidy23:28 - The Gift of Meaning: Michael's "Revelation"See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Explore the complexities of breast cancer treatment, focusing on chemotherapy and hormone therapy. Discover methods to alleviate side effects and the importance of personalized care. Hear emotional testimonials from survivors about managing fears of recurrence and the journey of life after treatment. Gain practical advice on self-advocacy and maintaining quality of life during and beyond therapy, while emphasizing the importance of support and open communication with healthcare providers.

In this episode, Dr. Diane Reidy-Lagunes speaks with two MSK clinical social workers, Hadley Maya and Natalie Santos, about how parents who've been diagnosed with cancer can talk to their children. They offer compassionate guidance on being honest with kids to prepare them for changes in family routines or treatment side effects, helping them feel more secure during a difficult time. With practical tips and real-life examples, this conversation offers advice for parents navigating one of the hardest discussions imaginable, while making sure their children feel supported and can continue being kids. Learn more about MSK’s Talking with Children about Cancer program Additional resources mentioned in this episode:Red Door CommunityCancerCareBright Spot Network Episode Chapters:1:14 - Should I tell my child I have cancer?3:01 - Should it be one conversation or more?4:16 - Advice from a mother with cancer5:27 - Should I put on a brave face? What if I cry?8:30 - How do I explain side effects like hair loss?10:36 - Advice from a mother who lost her hair11:43 - How do I tell my child I may die from cancer?14:24 - Advice from a mother with months to live16:02 - Age-appropriate guidelines for talking to kids21:30 - Advice from a father on age-appropriate talks22:39 - Advice from a daughter on having a sick mother24:32 - What if my teenager doesn't respond well?25:32 - Advice for the surviving parent26:17 - Resources to help parents with cancer28:09 - A note on trusting your childSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Karuna Ganesh, a medical oncologist focused on gastrointestinal cancers, and Dr. Caitlin Murphy, an epidemiologist researching young adult cancer outcomes, uncover the alarming rise of cancer in Gen X and Millennials. They explore how prenatal exposures and environmental toxins may play a pivotal role. Discussion also revolves around gut microbiome factors, the exposome concept, and the urgent need for updated screening guidelines. These insights challenge traditional views and aim to reshape cancer prevention strategies for younger generations.

In this episode, Dr. Diane Reidy-Lagunes sits down with MSK’s Dr. Neil Iyengar, a nationally recognized expert on the relationship between obesity, metabolic health, and cancer. Together, they discuss the intriguing connection between a new class of weight loss drugs, called GLP-1 agonists, and cancer risk reduction. They explore how medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro and others, which were originally designed for diabetes, are not only effective for weight loss but may also lower the risk of developing obesity-related cancers. They explain how those drugs work within the body to deliver potential benefits, the limitations of current studies, and what weight loss drugs mean for both cancer prevention and treatment. Episode Chapters:1:35 - How do these drugs cause weight loss?3:08 - What cancers could these drugs help prevent?4:29 - How exactly do they prevent cancer?6:10 - Should people with cancer take these drugs?7:42 - What happens when you stop taking them?10:56 - Potential side effects12:25 - Limitations of recent study and breast cancer prevention14:36 - 3 lifestyle tips to prevent and treat cancerSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Dr. Diane Reidy-Lagunes is joined by Dr. Erica Lee, a dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at MSK, to discuss misconceptions around who can get skin cancer, how it presents on different skin types, and practical sun safety tips to help prevent skin cancer. They break down the different types of skin cancer, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. They also hear from Jocelyn, a Hispanic melanoma survivor who shares her surprise of being diagnosed with melanoma despite her Hispanic background, emphasizing the importance of routine skin checks for people of all skin types. Episode Chapters:1:30 - Types of skin cancer4:39 - Who's most at risk?7:13 - Warning signs to look out for10:25 - What darker skin populations need to know13:25 - Sun protection myths and tipsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Michael Bernstein, a radiation oncologist at Memorial Sloan Kettering, explains the pivotal role of radiation therapy in breast cancer treatment, discussing planning, side effects, and patient experiences. Dr. Michelle Coriddi, a plastic and reconstructive surgeon, shares insights into various reconstruction techniques, emphasizing the importance of body image post-treatment. The two experts address lumpectomy versus mastectomy options, patient testimonials, and the emotional journey of navigating breast cancer care. Their expert advice empowers patients to make informed choices.

Dr. Elizabeth Comen, an oncologist and author of "All in Her Head," joins the discussion to illuminate the historical biases women face in healthcare. She emphasizes the importance of women advocating for their health and the need for better communication with doctors. The conversation dives into how gender bias affects treatment, the shame surrounding body image and sexual health, and the significant gap in women's health research. Dr. Comen inspires women to take charge of their health journeys and select supportive healthcare providers.

Join Dr. Diane Reidy-Lagunes as she engages with trailblazers Karuna Ganesh, a medical oncologist specializing in colorectal cancer, and Chrysothemis Brown, a pediatrician focused on immune regulation. They dive into groundbreaking research on cancer metastasis and immune response. The discussion highlights the pivotal role of mentorship and philanthropy in fostering innovation in cancer science. Discover how these women are reshaping the landscape and empowering future generations in the fight against cancer.

Dr. Allison Applebaum, founder of the Caregivers Clinic at MSK, shares practical advice for cancer caregivers, including navigating the healthcare system and managing intense emotions like anger and grief. She discusses the profound meaning that can be found in the experience of being a cancer caregiver.