Beyond The Clinic: Living Well With Melanoma

Joining us today is Dr. Seamara Rocha Cadman, Chief of the Division of Psychiatry at City of Hope—one of the largest cancer research and treatment centers in the United States.In this deeply moving and illuminating conversation, Dr. Rocha Cadman shares her personal and professional journey into psycho-oncology, shaped by her experiences as an immigrant physician, a psychiatrist, a caregiver, and a family member profoundly touched by cancer. From losing her sister to breast cancer to later supporting her husband through a bone marrow transplant, her work is rooted in lived experience as much as clinical expertise.Together, we explore the unique psychological impact of cancer—from diagnosis through treatment, survivorship, and end-of-life care. Dr. Rocha Cadman offers compassionate insight into topics often misunderstood or overlooked: adjustment versus psychiatric illness, chemo brain, menopause-related cognitive changes, fear of recurrence, caregiver distress, and the emotional crash that can follow “good news.”We also discuss resilience, mindfulness, movement as medicine, integrative oncology, peer support, and the concept of post-traumatic growth—how people are changed by cancer, and how healing doesn’t always mean returning to who you were before.This episode is for patients, caregivers, clinicians, and anyone navigating serious illness—offering validation, clarity, and a reminder that you are not broken for feeling the way you feel.

Guest: Lisa Simms Booth, Executive Director, Smith Center for Healing and the ArtsIn this episode of the Beyond the Clinic, Living Well with Melanoma Dr. Sam Siegel welcomes Lisa Simms Booth, Executive Director of the Smith Center for Healing and the Arts—an organization dedicated to whole-person support for people with cancer, their families, and caregivers.Lisa shares the deeply personal story that shaped her nearly 30-year career in advocacy, public health, and patient-centered cancer work. After her mother’s ovarian cancer diagnosis, Lisa found herself navigating two worlds at once: the complexities of cancer care and the systemic barriers within the research and advocacy landscape. That experience became the catalyst for her life’s mission.Together, Dr. Siegel and Lisa explore:How personal experience can ignite a passion for advocacyWhy resilience in cancer is a learned skill—not an inherent traitThe emotional realities of caregiving and survivorshipSmith Center’s “healing basket” approach to integrative supportPractical ways people can manage stress, find community, and cultivate tools for emotional and spiritual well-beingThe importance of accessible, no-cost cancer support programsHow patients can weave integrative practices into their medical careLisa also offers a grounded, compassionate look at the nuances of topics like nutrition, mindfulness, emotional support, and how even a few minutes of intentional rest can change the trajectory of a day.Whether you’re a patient, caregiver, clinician, or advocate, this conversation offers wisdom, comfort, and a reminder that no one has to walk the cancer journey alone.Guest BioLisa Simms Booth joined Smith Center for Healing and the Arts following a nearly thirty year career in media, politics, community organizing, and advocacy. Lisa has always had a servant’s heart and has aspired to do work that improves the lives of others or empowers them to advocate for positive change. She has previously worked at FasterCures, a center of the Milken Institute, Biden Cancer Initiative, LISTEN, Inc., The Alliance for Justice, Children’s Defense Fund, and the National Rainbow Coalition.    As Executive Director, Lisa is responsible for strategic oversight, fund development, administrative and financial management, and community building. In addition to her work at Smith Center, Lisa is a member of the Professional Oncology Navigation Task Force (PONT), the American Cancer Society’s Leadership in Oncology Navigation (ACS LIONTM) Advisory Council and Cancer Support Community’s Cancer Policy Institute Advisory Board. She also serves on the Boards of Commonweal, the Microbiome Alliance for Disease Prevention and the National Organization of Arts in Health.  

In this episode, we speak with Brian Jin, LCSW, a psychotherapist specializing in Meaning-Centered Psychotherapy (MCP) at Yale New Haven Health’s Smilow Cancer Hospital. Brian shares his journey and experience supporting cancer patients through MCP, an evidence-based therapy designed to help individuals find meaning and hope amidst illness. He discusses how this therapeutic approach can empower patients, help them navigate the emotional challenges of cancer, and maintain vitality throughout their treatment. Brian’s expertise also extends to his work with support groups for lung cancer, pancreatic cancer, and brain tumor patients. Tune in as we explore the power of meaning and purpose in sustaining hope and resilience during cancer treatment. About Our Host Samantha Siegel, MDDr. Samantha Siegel is an internist at Kaiser Permanente and the current Director of Cancer Survivorship at Kaiser San Francisco. She has survived relapsed/refractory Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, including an autologous bone marrow transplant in June 2022. This has made her passionate about cancer survivorship, integrative medicine and personal narrative impacting the illness experience. She is a public speaker advocating strongly for cancer care. Dr. Siegel is pioneering a longitudinal cancer survivorship care model, beginning at diagnosis, that can be replicated in other healthcare systems. She is focused on elevating cancer survivorship to a distinct, multidisciplinary board certification status. Dr. Siegel lives in Davis with her husband, three kids and energetic dog. She enjoys outdoor activities, plant-based living and any occasion to dance. If you have questions, feedback, or topic ideas for upcoming episodes, please e-mail us at: engageus@AIMatMelanoma.org.

In this episode, we sit down with Vanessa Tompkins, wife and caregiver to Mike, who has been battling Stage 4 metastasized ocular melanoma. Over the past five years, Vanessa has supported Mike through weekly immunotherapy, four major surgeries—including the removal of his left eye, liver surgery, triple hernia repair, and open-heart surgery—and countless challenges along the way.A registered nurse, former hospice nurse, and current Sexual Assault Forensic Examiner, Vanessa brings professional expertise, personal experience, and unwavering compassion to her role as a caregiver. She is also a mother of three, grandmother of four, and devoted owner of her golden lab, Romeo. Guided by her motto, “One day at a time,” Vanessa shares insights into the realities of caregiving, the emotional resilience required, and the lessons learned in supporting a loved one through a complex and ongoing cancer journey.Tune in to hear her story, practical tips, and heartfelt reflections on the challenges and rewards of being a caregiver.

In this episode of Beyond the Clinic: Living Well with Melanoma, Dr. Samantha Siegel is joined by Katie Ostrovsky and Cheryl Marker from the MelaHomies community.Cheryl, diagnosed with Stage I melanoma in 2023, shares how she turned to online groups for education and support when her medical team left her with more questions than answers. Katie, a Stage IV survivor now, 11 years cancer-free, reflects on the emotional and practical challenges of survivorship — and how building the Mela Homies helped transform isolation into connection.Together, they explore the power of peer support, the gaps in survivorship care, and why community is just as vital as treatment.👉 Tune in to hear their stories and learn how the MelaHomies are making sure no one faces melanoma alone.

In this powerful episode, we’re joined by Dr. Wendy G. Lichtenthal, a leading expert in grief and bereavement care. Dr. Lichtenthal is the Founding Director of the Center for the Advancement of Bereavement Care at the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center and Professor at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. A licensed clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience, she brings deep compassion and groundbreaking research to the field of psychosocial oncology.We discuss the complexities of grief after cancer loss, the evolving nature of bereavement care, and how clinicians and caregivers can better support those navigating life after loss. Dr. Lichtenthal also shares insights from her work developing Meaning-Centered Grief Therapy and the EMPOWER intervention — both designed to help individuals find meaning and resilience in the face of profound sorrow.Whether you're a healthcare professional, a grieving loved one, or someone seeking to better understand bereavement, this conversation offers validation, hope, and expert guidance.ABOUT OUR GUEST: Wendy G. Lichtenthal, PhD Wendy G. Lichtenthal, PhD, FT, FAPOS is founding director of the Center for the Advancement of Bereavement Care at the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center and Professor in the Department of Public Health Sciences, Division of Prevention Science and Community Health at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, which she joined in 2023. She is a licensed clinical psychologist and has worked as a grief specialist for over 20 years. In 2005, she began her career at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK) in New York City, where she was Founding Director of the Bereavement Clinic and Associate Attending Psychologist, and where she now serves as Consultant Faculty. She was a recipient of the 2012 International Psycho-Oncology Society Kawano New Investigator Award, the 2019 Association for Death Education and Counseling Research Recognition Award, and the 2023 American Psychosocial Oncology Society Outstanding Clinical Care Award. She is a Fellow in Thanatology and was elected a Fellow of the American Psychosocial Oncology Society in 2024. Her federally funded research has been supported by the National Institute of Mental Health, National Cancer Institute, National Institute of Nursing Research, American Cancer Society, T.J. Martell Foundation, and MSK’s Cycle for Survival and has focused on grief and bereavement, cancer survivorship, intervention development and evaluation, and finding meaning in the face of adversity. She is an inventor of the Meaning-Centered Grief Therapy and EMPOWER intervention manuals that are used in her research.

In this episode, we sit down with Abby Singh, a melanoma survivor diagnosed as an Adolescent and Young Adult (AYA). Abby is now the Director of Patient Content and Nutrition Education Services at The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS), where she creates critical resources for patients and caregivers, including the Survivorship Workbooks.She shares her journey through diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship, and how her experience drives her work supporting nutrition programs for all cancer types. Abby also opens up about life beyond cancer—from her Tennessee roots in Sevierville (Dolly Parton’s hometown) to her passions for fiction writing, bar trivia, and family life.Join us for an honest, inspiring conversation about resilience, healing, and the importance of community in the AYA cancer experience.ABOUT OUR GUEST: Abby Singh, a melanoma survivor and passionate advocate for cancer patients, serves as the Director of Patient Content at the Nutrition Education Services Center and The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS). In this role, she has dedicated over a decade to creating impactful resources like the Survivorship Workbooks and supporting LLS’s comprehensive nutrition program, which benefits individuals with all types of cancer.A proud graduate of Belmont University in Nashville, TN, Abby holds a bachelor’s degree in English and history. She is also a member of the Alpha Gamma Delta sorority. Outside of her professional work, Abby enjoys reading, writing fiction, and testing her knowledge at bar trivia. She lives in Sevierville, TN—Dolly Parton’s hometown—with her husband, young son, and two beloved cats.

Facing melanoma or any cancer isn’t just a physical journey — it impacts your mind, emotions, relationships, and sense of self. In this episode, Dr. Rena Szabo, PsyD, a clinical psychologist specializing in psycho-oncology, shares insights on how a holistic, person-centered approach can support patients and caregivers throughout their cancer experience.Dr. Szabo discusses practical strategies for building resilience, managing stress and anxiety, and coping with changes to body image, helping patients maintain a sense of control and hope during treatment and survivorship. She also highlights how healthcare providers can better support patients by addressing mental and emotional well-being alongside physical health.Tune in for guidance, encouragement, and a compassionate look at caring for yourself through the full spectrum of the cancer journey.About Our Guest:Dr. Rena Szabo, PsyD, is a clinical psychologist specializing in psycho-oncology and integrated behavioral health. With a deep commitment to the well-being of both patients and healthcare providers, Dr. Szabo works at the intersection of psychology and medicine to enhance overall health and quality of life. She is also deeply involved in Special Olympics Arizona, where she has contributed significantly to developing programs like Strong Minds, which focuses on the mental and emotional health of athletes. Dr. Szabo is also a mother of three and enjoys running, reading, and being part of her faith community.

In this enlightening episode, we are joined by Elizabeth Cohn Stuntz, LCSW, a cancer survivor and expert in emotional well-being, to explore the power of collective wisdom and practical strategies for those touched by cancer. Elizabeth, a psychotherapist trained in contemporary psychoanalysis and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), shares her invaluable insights on how to manage the intense emotional stresses of a cancer diagnosis. She offers concrete, effective skills for decision-making, emotional regulation, and managing the uncertainties that come with cancer.Elizabeth also discusses how to effectively communicate with family, friends, colleagues, and medical providers, helping individuals navigate the complex relational dynamics that arise during cancer treatment. Drawing from her experience and her collaboration with Marsha Linehan to create the program Coping with Cancer: DBT Skills to Manage Your Emotions and Balance Uncertainty with Hope, Elizabeth provides actionable tools to help those affected by cancer live meaningfully and with a sense of hope.About Our Guest:Elizabeth Cohn Stuntz, LCSW, is a cancer survivor, psychotherapist, and advocate for emotional well-being. With expertise in contemporary psychoanalysis and DBT, she has dedicated her career to supporting individuals and families navigating cancer. As co-author of Coping with Cancer: DBT Skills to Manage Your Emotions and Balance Uncertainty with Hope, Elizabeth combines her personal and professional experiences to offer transformative coping skills that empower cancer patients and caregivers. She is also a faculty member at the Westchester Center for Psychoanalysis and Psychotherapy.

In this deeply personal episode, Drs. Samantha and Samuel Siegel share their journey of navigating cancer, medical school, and family life together. From their time as medical students at Jefferson Medical College to the challenges they faced with Samuel's testicular cancer diagnosis and Samantha’s battle with Hodgkin's Lymphoma, their story highlights the complexities of being both physicians and patients. Throughout their experiences, they uncovered significant gaps in cancer survivorship care, prompting them to become passionate advocates for change in the healthcare system.Join Samantha and Samuel as they discuss the struggles and triumphs of parenting through illness, managing health crises while continuing their careers, and the emotional toll of caring for one another. With their shared mission to improve survivorship care and elevate its importance within medical practice, this episode serves as an inspiring and thought-provoking conversation on resilience, advocacy, and the power of personal stories in driving change.About Our Guest:Samuel Siegel, MDPediatricianDignity Health Woodland ClinicSamuel Siegel is a general pediatrician in Woodland, CA serving a predominantly rural population, including immigrants from Mexico and Central America. He practices hospital medicine, seeing newborns during their birth hospitalization and he attends high risk deliveries.In his outpatient practice, Dr. Siegel has a special interest in pediatric obesity and nutrition and founded an annual healthy eating project called Home-Grown Health. There, he gives away 1000 vegetable starts, soil, and fertilizer each year to families in his community. He believes that allowing children to participate in the unique process of nurturing plants from seeds will more successfully promote healthy eating habits.He is also a patient who has learned to live a fulfilling life with chronic medical conditions since his early twenties including inflammatory bowel disease, treatment for cancer while in medical school, and a living donor liver transplant from his brother in 2016. He is a husband and partner to a physician-patient spouse and together they have three wonderful children.

In this episode, we dive into the transformative power of art therapy in cancer care. Art therapy goes beyond traditional treatment by offering patients a creative outlet to express their emotions, manage stress, and find relaxation during their journey. Emphasizing the process over perfection, art therapy creates a safe, supportive space for individuals to explore their creativity and enhance their emotional well-being. Whether through painting, drawing, or other forms of expression, patients are encouraged to engage in art as a tool for healing and connection.About Our Guest:We are joined by Lisa Shea, MA, ATR-BC. Lisa holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Miami University and a Master’s in Art Therapy from Wright State University. With a diverse background in psychiatric hospitals, community mental health centers, and schools, Lisa has made a profound impact on her patients' lives. In 2012, she became the first full-time art therapist at the Cleveland Clinic’s Taussig Cancer Center, where she’s played a crucial role in bringing the healing power of art to cancer patients.Tune in to hear how art therapy is reshaping the patient experience and offering a new path to emotional wellness during the challenging journey of cancer care.

In this episode, we speak with Ann Roseman, a melanoma survivor since 2020, who shares her personal journey with cancer and how it shaped her mission to advocate for sun safety. Ann’s background in Human Development and Family Studies, combined with her experience as a Certified Child Life Specialist, allowed her to make a meaningful impact in healthcare settings, creating programs and supporting families through tough times. After retiring from Hospice of the Valley, Ann turned her focus to preventing melanoma in her community, volunteering with AIM at Melanoma and educating the public about sun safety.Ann also serves on the committee for the upcoming Phoenix Steps Against Melanoma walk, and her work continues to empower others to take proactive steps in protecting their skin. Tune in to hear about Ann’s personal story, her passion for prevention, and how she’s working to make a difference in the “Valley of the Sun.” Plus, we’ll hear about her volunteering work with Maggie, her certified therapy dog, bringing joy and support to children and families at local libraries.About Our HostSamantha Siegel, MDDr. Samantha Siegel is an internist at Kaiser Permanente and the current director of Cancer Survivorship at Kaiser San Francisco. She has survived relapsed/refractory Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, including an autologous bone marrow transplant in June 2022. This has made her passionate about cancer survivorship, integrative medicine and personal narrative impacting the illness experience. She is a public speaker advocating strongly for cancer care.Dr. Siegel is pioneering a longitudinal cancer survivorship care model, beginning at diagnosis, that can be replicated in other healthcare systems. She is focused on elevating cancer survivorship to a distinct, multidisciplinary board certification status.Dr. Siegel lives in Davis with her husband, three kids and energetic dog. She enjoys outdoor activities, plant-based living and any occasion to dance.If you have questions, feedback, or topic ideas for upcoming episodes, please e-mail us at: engageus@AIMatMelanoma.org.

In this episode, we sit down with Noa Curtis, LCSW, APHSW-C, an outpatient oncology social worker at the Providence Cancer Institute in Portland, Oregon. Noa specializes in palliative care and provides holistic support to cancer patients and their families from diagnosis through survivorship or end of life. They discuss their approach to palliative care, focusing on self-advocacy, meaning-making, and self-compassion as vital components of the healing journey. With a deep commitment to supporting patients emotionally and psychologically, Noa also shares insights into their role in enhancing quality of life, managing difficult transitions, and advocating for patient-centered care. Tune in for an insightful conversation on the critical role of social work in oncology and palliative care.About Our HostSamantha Siegel, MDDr. Samantha Siegel is an internist at Kaiser Permanente and the current Direct of Cancer Survivorship at Kaiser San Francisco. She has survived relapsed/refractory Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, including an autologous bone marrow transplant in June 2022. This has made her passionate about cancer survivorship, integrative medicine and personal narrative impacting the illness experience. She is a public speaker advocating strongly for cancer care.Dr. Siegel is pioneering a longitudinal cancer survivorship care model, beginning at diagnosis, that can be replicated in other healthcare systems. She is focused on elevating cancer survivorship to a distinct, multidisciplinary board certification status.Dr. Siegel lives in Davis with her husband, three kids and energetic dog. She enjoys outdoor activities, plant-based living and any occasion to dance.If you have questions, feedback, or topic ideas for upcoming episodes, please e-mail us at: engageus@AIMatMelanoma.org.

In this special episode of Beyond the Clinic: Living with Melanoma, Dr. Raymond Liu and Dr. Sam Siegel sit down for an insightful and heartfelt conversation as Dr. Siegel steps into her new role as host. With a shared passion for cancer survivorship, the two discuss Dr. Siegel’s personal journey as a cancer survivor and caregiver, her vision for the future of the podcast, and the vital importance of addressing the physical, emotional, and social aspects of life after cancer. Dr. Liu reflects on the evolution of Beyond the Clinic, from its early days as a webinar series to becoming a key resource for the cancer community. He shares the challenges and triumphs of his own journey in cancer care and mentorship, offering valuable insights into the growing focus on survivorship. As Dr. Siegel prepares to lead the podcast into its next chapter, the interview provides a powerful glimpse into her commitment to supporting cancer patients and caregivers, emphasizing the importance of ongoing care beyond the clinic. Tune in to hear their discussion on what it means to live with cancer, how survivorship care has evolved, and what listeners can expect in the years to come under Dr. Siegel’s leadership.

In this episode, we talk with Dr. William Breitbart, Chairman of the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, and a pioneer in psycho-oncology. Dr. Breitbart sheds light on the critical yet often overlooked issue of meaning and purpose in cancer care. He delves into how patients may encounter a profound loss of meaning, which can lead to anxiety and depression, even if they are not clinically diagnosed with depression. Drawing from his extensive experience, Dr. Breitbart shares insights from his pioneering work in the psychiatric and neuropsychiatric dimensions of cancer and palliative care. He discusses strategies to assist patients in rediscovering meaning and enhancing their quality of life during challenging times. Join us for a conversation that underscores the vital intersection of mental health and cancer treatment, featuring Dr. Breitbart's significant contributions to the field, including his groundbreaking work on Meaning-Centered Psychotherapy. William Breitbart, M.D. Chairman, Jimmie C Holland Chair in Psychiatric Oncology; Chairman, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center Dr. Breitbart is a pioneer and leader in the field of psycho-oncology. At Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, he led the way for innovative, award-winning initiatives that provided high-quality research focusing on psychiatric and neuropsychiatric aspects of cancer and palliative care. He is the Chairman, Jimmie C Holland Chair in Psychiatric Oncology, Chairman, Psychiatry Service, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC) in New York. Dr. Breitbart is also a Professor of Clinical Psychiatry at Weill Medical College of Cornell University. Dr. Breitbart is known for numerous influential leadership roles, and has been recognized in the field of psycho-oncology for his contributions, receiving top research awards and lifetime achievements since 2003. He has edited/written twelve textbooks, including Psychiatric Aspects of Symptom Management in the Cancer Patient, published by the American Psychiatric Press, Psycho-oncology - 1st, 2nd and 3rd Editions, and Handbook of Psychiatry in Palliative Medicine- 1st and 2nd Editions. Dr. Breitbart recently authored treatment manuals on Meaning-Centered Group and Individual Psychotherapy in Advanced Cancer Patients by Oxford University Press. He is currently editor-in-chief of the Cambridge University Press’ international palliative care journal, Palliative & Supportive Care. Dr. Breitbart also helped found IPOS Press and authored the IPOS Press/Oxford University Press Text Psychosocial Palliative Care.

In this compelling episode of “Surviving the Spotlight,” we sit down with Jessica Gilstrap, a melanoma survivor and independent filmmaker, whose inspiring journey from cancer diagnosis to creative success is both moving and motivating. At just 19 years old, Jessica's life took an unexpected turn when she was diagnosed with Stage IV Melanoma—a discovery that came not from a routine check, but from a serendipitous visit to her doctor for a different issue. Jessica’s story unfolds with the urgency of immediate surgery and the emotional rollercoaster of battling a life-threatening illness. After numerous biopsies and surgeries, she emerged with a renewed outlook on life, embracing sun safety while maintaining her passion for travel and adventure. Today, Jessica channels her experiences and newfound perspective into her work as an independent film producer. Her dedication to bringing compelling stories to the screen is matched by her commitment to advocating for sun safety and helping others navigate their own challenges. In this episode, Jessica shares her personal journey, the impact of her melanoma diagnosis on her life choices, and how she has integrated sun safety into her daily routine without sacrificing her love for travel and exploration. She also offers practical advice on skincare and sun protection, aiming to empower others to live fully and safely. Join us to hear Jessica's incredible story of resilience, creativity, and advocacy, and learn how she turns her challenges into opportunities for helping others and making a meaningful impact.

Join us for an insightful episode of "Restful Recovery," where we explore the crucial interplay between sleep and cancer with Dr. Daniel Barone, a leading expert in sleep medicine. Dr. Barone, the Associate Medical Director at the Weill Cornell Center for Sleep Medicine, shares his extensive knowledge and experience in the field, offering valuable guidance on how sleep impacts cancer treatment and recovery. Dr. Barone's illustrious career began with his summa cum laude graduation from Fordham University, followed by his medical degree from New York Medical College. His path included an internship in Internal Medicine at Saint Vincent's Catholic Medical Center, and subsequent Neurology training, where he was named Chief Resident. He completed his Neurology residency at Beth Israel Medical Center and a fellowship in Sleep Disorders at Stony Brook University Medical Center. As an Associate Professor of Clinical Neurology at Weill Cornell Medical College and an Attending Neurologist at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center, Dr. Barone specializes in managing various sleep disorders, including sleep apnea, insomnia, and restless legs syndrome. His certifications and affiliations, including those with the American Academy of Neurology and the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, underscore his expertise. In this episode, Dr. Barone discusses how sleep affects cancer patients, strategies for improving sleep during treatment, and the latest research findings. His insights are drawn from his peer-reviewed publications, media appearances, and his books, "Let’s Talk About Sleep" and "The Story of Sleep: From A to Zzz." Tune in to learn how better sleep can be a powerful ally in cancer care and recovery, and gain practical tips for improving your sleep health during challenging times.

Surviving cancer or finishing treatment often leaves survivors feeling elated, as if they've conquered the world. However, there's also a profound, more vulnerable emotion that many experience: the fear of recurrence, or the dread of cancer returning. Although it's a common fear among survivors, dealing with this fear can be challenging. It poses a significant obstacle, particularly when all you desire is to progress and live your life. To learn more about fear of recurrence and how to manage it, we tapped an expert at Banner Health, Dr. Rena Szabo, PsyD as our guest for this episode. Dr. Szabo works at the intersection of psychology and medicine. Dr. Szabo specializes in exploring the biological, psychological, cultural, societal, spiritual, and environmental factors of life and how each of these affects physical health and quality of life. Her use of evidence-based practices within an integrative oncology setting allows her to provide holistic, person-centered care.

In today’s episode, we're talking about a profoundly touching topic—caring for someone with melanoma. Today, we're discussing the roles, challenges, and triumphs of those who stand by their loved ones in the fight against melanoma—caregivers. They are the unsung heroes who provide the support and strength needed to face each day anew. Our guests: Sue Capozzi: Sue has devotedly served as a caregiver for her husband, John, who, despite his current stability, was diagnosed with Stage III melanoma in 2019, which progressed to Stage IV the following year. Throughout his challenging treatment journey, John has faced numerous hurdles but is currently doing well. Now retired, Sue and John reside in Little Egg Harbor, New Jersey, a stone's throw away from the beach. They cherish their time sailing, kayaking, and enjoying moments with their dog, always mindful to apply copious amounts of sunscreen. The couple enjoys the company of their married son, a granddaughter, and eagerly await the arrival of another grandchild in the spring of 2024. Driven by the importance of melanoma education, Sue became a Peer Connect mentor in 2022. In this short span, she has provided guidance to several caregivers, finding deep fulfillment in offering support. Sue hopes to extend the same level of support and understanding she has received, contributing positively to the lives of others on their melanoma journeys. Nancy Earle: Nancy devoted herself as a caregiver to her son, Will, following his Stage III melanoma diagnosis in 2016, which escalated to Stage IV within the same year. She took a two-year hiatus from her career to support him daily through his illness and treatment. Together, they navigated the complex landscape of medical opinions, trials, and treatment centers. On March 4, 2018, Nancy and her family bid a heartfelt farewell to Will. Before retiring, Nancy had a dynamic career as a lawyer and event producer. Now, she relishes her retirement in Bellport Village, New York, alongside her husband. They take joy in their three surviving sons, their partners, and their grandchildren. Driven by a desire to honor Will's altruistic spirit, Nancy engages with several organizations. She serves on the advisory board of INTERSOS, a Rome-based international NGO, working to raise awareness of its humanitarian programs. Locally, she contributes to the environmental committee and has begun writing a book chronicling Will's courageous battle over his final two years. In 2021, Nancy became a Peer Connect mentor, driven by the critical need for melanoma awareness. She supports caregivers, some fortunate to have loved ones in remission and others mourning their loss. Offering a beacon of information and comfort is crucial for caregivers, who often grapple with fear and emotional turmoil. Nancy provides a compassionate ear and guidance to help them take the next step forward. Contact & Follow Us: Website: AIMatMelanoma.org Twitter: @AIMatMelanoma Instagram: @AIMatMelanoma Facebook: @AIMatMelanoma Email: Engageus@AIMatMelanoma.org

Ever wondered how animals can make a huge difference in people's lives? 🐶🐱 In this podcast, we delve into the fascinating world of animal-assisted therapy and explore its incredible benefits for both physical and mental well-being. From calming anxiety to promoting social interaction, animals undeniably impact human happiness and healing. 🌟 Join us as we unveil heartwarming stories and scientific insights about the transformative power of furry companions. About our guest: DR. AUBREY H. FINE Dr. Fine received his graduate degree from the University of Cincinnati in 1982 and has been on the faculty at California State Polytechnic University since 1981. His leadership among faculty and teaching excellence earned him the prestigious Wang Award in 2001,  given to a distinguished professor within the California State University system (23 Universities), in this instance, for exceptional commitment, dedication, and exemplary contributions within the areas of education and applied sciences. Dr. Fine is a licensed psychologist who opened his practice in Southern California in 1987. His practice specializes in treating children with ADHD, learning disabilities, developmental disorders, and parent-child relations.