Let's Talk About Your Breasts

Baseball built Julia’s career, but it’s the people behind the game who keep her in Houston. She traces her path from small‑town athlete to Astros broadcaster, then opens up about 2020, when pregnancy, COVID, and her mother’s breast cancer collided, pushing her to start mammograms early and speak candidly about family history and early detection. Please consider sharing this episode, or making a donation at therose.org so more women receive breast cancer screening and care. Subscribe to Let’s Talk About Your Breasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, and wherever you get your podcasts. Key questions answered 1. How did a sports‑obsessed kid from Crandall, Texas, work her way from tiny markets and tomahawk tournaments to the Houston Astros broadcast team? 2. What did Julia learn in minor league ballparks with the Round Rock Express that made her the right hire for a full‑time traveling baseball role? 3. How did legendary play‑by‑play announcer Bill Brown help introduce her to Astros fans and give her space to be herself on air during losing seasons? 4. Why did Julia decide to drop the “buttoned‑up” reporter persona and let fans see the same person on TV that they’d meet in H‑E‑B? 5. What toll did early years of bad baseball, five‑hour games, and constant travel take on her, and how did those years actually make her a better reporter? 6. How did the arrival of stars like Jose Altuve, Carlos Correa, George Springer, and Lance McCullers change her job and the way the broadcast told stories? 7. In what ways does Julia see herself as a trailblazer for women in sports media, and how did little girls in the stands with “I’m here to see Julia” signs change her perspective? 8. How did she balance becoming a visible role model with raising her own young daughter, knowing her child is watching how she treats people on and off camera? 9. What exactly happened in 2020 when Julia was navigating pregnancy, a shutdown baseball season, and the discovery that her mother was already deep into breast cancer treatment? 10. How has her mother’s diagnosis and double mastectomy shaped her own screening habits, her views on early detection, and her message to fans about mammograms? Timestamped overview 00:30 Julia explains what she actually is on air: sideline reporter, field reporter, broadcaster, and sometimes “Ms. Astro” 01:37 First jobs after college as a small‑market sports reporter, covering everything from football to tomahawk throwing in Sherman, Texas 04:01 Learning the business side of baseball: players being optioned, designated for assignment, and the stories that never make the big‑league broadcast 06:50 Adjusting from local news schedules to life on the road with a Major League team and learning live, in‑game broadcasting 09:39 Julia’s decision to stop playing the “hard‑news” sideline role and instead be fully herself for 162 games a season 11:20 The grind of 2013: bad team, long games, coast‑to‑coast travel, wardrobe stress, and quietly hitting a wall by May 22:01 Staying in the role long‑term when many women cycled out after a couple of years; growing up on camera and putting down roots in Houston 24:19 How deep ties to players, alumni, and Astros legends made Julia a lifelong fan of people like Jose Altuve and Nolan Ryan 25:58 The moment she realized she was inspiring girls: signs in the stands, little fans calling her name, and seeing herself in them the way she once heard Pam Oliver 29:02 Dorothy shifts the conversation to breast cancer and asks about Julia’s mom’s diagnosis coinciding with her pregnancy in 2020 31:32 Returning home, camping out on her mom’s couch during early COVID, and missing the signs that something was wrong 32:31 Mom’s later visit to Houston in a baseball cap, the quiet reveal that she’d already started breast cancer treatment, and Julia’s guilt at not knowing 33:28 Processing that her mother had been doing chemo and appointments alone while Julia was focused on pregnancy and job uncertainty 34:00 The double mastectomy scheduled three days before Julia’s delivery, scrambling to give her mother time to recover and still meet her grandbaby 35:03 Her mom’s lump, finding it on a mammogram, getting treated despite the pandemic, and being “all good” now 35:32 Why Julia started mammograms three years early, at 37, and how her mother’s estrogen‑sensitive cancer changed the way she thinks about her own stress and hormones 38:06 Fears and conversations about risk for her daughter Valerie, hereditary questions, and how often she thinks about their shared futureSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Samina Farid built her career in oil and gas, founded her own company, and forged ahead in spaces where women are rarely seen. Through it all, she faced cancer twice and found strength that reshaped both her health and her work. - Breaking barriers as the only woman in the room - Building success in a male-dominated industry - Facing cancer two times and turning challenges into purpose Support The Rose HERE. Subscribe to Let’s Talk About Your Breasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, and wherever you get your podcasts. Key Questions Answered 1. How did Samina Farid cope with the challenges of being the only woman in a male-dominated field? 2. How did Samina come to start her own company, and what inspired its mission? 3. What was unique about Merrick Systems, and how did it contribute to the industry? 4. Why did Samina decide to sell her company, and what was that process like? 5.What steps did Samina take after her cancer diagnosis? 6. What did Samina learn about her genetic risk for cancer? 7. How did journaling and self-care practices help Samina during her cancer journey? 8. What message does Samina want to share with other women about health and self-care? Timestamped Overview 00:00 Discovery of Remarkable Women 04:12 Pre-Internet Oil Data Challenges 08:20 Grateful for Mentorship Journey 11:27 "Turbulent Life Changes" 15:44 Cancer Journey and Support 21:23 "Facing Cancer's Uncertainty" 24:12 Genetic Mutation: Cancer Risk Alert 25:44 Pancreatic Tumor and Whipple Surgery 28:49 Prioritize Health: Just Do ItSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Melillo and Dorothy Gibbons started The Rose because they were tired of telling women, “You have cancer, and there’s nowhere for you to go.”  Forty years later, they're still in that same fight. In this conversation, Dr. Melillo walks us from those early days of oil‑bust Houston and charity‑hospital waiting lists to today’s harsh reality: we can diagnose, but for too many uninsured and underinsured women, we can’t get them into treatment. She shares her newest dream: a St. Jude‑style breast health hospital where women receive world‑class care, prevention, and real compassion without ever seeing a bill. In this episode, we talk about: - How The Rose began in the mid‑1980s with young mothers showing up with massive, advanced breast cancers and no insurance—and why diagnosis alone was never enough. - The current crisis: Medicaid rules, closed charity programs, and women forced to move counties, divorce, or give up work just to qualify for treatment. - Dr. Dixie’s vision for a no‑bill breast hospital that puts women first, teaches prevention and nutrition, supports child care, and treats every patient like a whole person, not a billing code. If this episode made you think of someone you love, share it with your family and friends—and if you’re able, consider making a donation at therose.org so another woman can get the mammogram and follow‑up care she needs, not just a diagnosis. Please consider sharing this episode, or making a donation at therose.org so more women receive breast cancer screening and care. Subscribe to Let’s Talk About Your Breasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, and wherever you get your podcasts. Key questions answered What heartbreaking cases in the early 1980s pushed Dixie and Dorothy to create The Rose in the first place? Why wasn’t sending uninsured women to “charity” hospitals a real solution, even when diagnosis was available? How has today’s landscape of Medicaid rules, insurance criteria, and overburdened systems brought them back to a 1983‑style crisis? What does it feel like for a physician to diagnose cancer and have no clear path to treatment for a woman who could be cured? How do poverty guidelines, citizenship requirements, work‑history rules, and even marital status block women from life‑saving care? Why are more women being diagnosed younger—and what happens when they must choose between a paycheck, child care, and treatment? What exactly is Dr. Dixie’s dream breast health hospital, and how would it function differently from traditional systems? How would this hospital center prevention, nutrition, and metabolic health alongside surgery, chemo, and radiation? Why do Dixie and Dorothy believe access to treatment should not depend on money, insurance, or ZIP code—and why do they say this dream is urgent, not optional? What kind of help—visionaries, donors, partners—are they hoping will step forward after hearing this conversation? Timestamped overview 03:30 Setting up the conversation; Dorothy reflects on cold opens and frames the core question: what if you were told you had cancer and had nowhere to go? Introduction of Dr. Dixie Melillo and the early 1980s context. 07:30 Dixie’s start as one of the only women surgeons, being funneled all the breast lumps, the lack of mammography access, and the string of uninsured women with advanced cancers—including the 32‑year‑old mother whose case broke them both. Formation of The Rose, creating a nonprofit, and realizing they had to build their own center instead of just raising money for others. 10:30 Early fundraising, fashion shows, awareness campaigns, and years when partnerships and charity programs allowed The Rose to diagnose and connect women to treatment reasonably well. 14:30 Fast‑forward to today: hospitals dropping certain Medicaid plans, strict income and citizenship rules, women being over the line by a hundred dollars, and some moving counties or divorcing just to qualify. Dixie compares the current situation to being back in 1983: able to diagnose, unable to offer treatment. 18:30 The emotional and moral toll: telling curable women there’s no path forward, the sin of watching a tumor grow because of paperwork and policy, and concrete examples of women blocked by work‑history or documentation rules. The heavy burden on patient navigators trying to work around 40‑page applications and shrinking charity options. 23:30 Dr. Dixie’s dream: a dedicated breast health hospital modeled on St. Jude—no bills for those who can’t pay, robust prevention and nutrition education, and care that treats women as whole people. Discussion of sugar, metabolic health, and how current standard practices often ignore prevention. 28:00 Vision for the campus: a sizable site, on‑site child care for staff and potentially patients, a welcoming intake process where patients are met by a person—not a distant front desk—and care teams who know their stories, griefs, and lives beyond the diagnosis. 32:00 Calling out systemic injustice: women forced to choose food over copays, cancers that don’t hurt until too late, and the difference between insured women who assume they’ll survive and uninsured women who wonder how they’ll pay. Dixie and Dorothy argue that access to breast cancer treatment should be a right, not a luxury. 35:21 Dixie’s conviction that now is the time; her faith that God will send the people and resources. Final appeal for kindness, compassion, and for listeners to help make this “St. Jude for breast cancer” a reality.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Support comes to life at the "Everything’s Coming Up Roses Luncheon," where advocates, survivors, board members, and friends stand shoulder to shoulder for women’s health in the community. In this episode: - Hear from an emcee who connects with women over shared experiences - Meet board members who bring The Rose’s mission to new supporters - Listen to how others are making community care a priority Support The Rose HERE. Subscribe to Let’s Talk About Your Breasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, and wherever you get your podcasts. Key Questions Answered 1. Why is supporting The Rose important? 2. How do insured patients help support The Rose’s mission? 3. What personal experiences deepen board members’ involvement with The Rose? 4. How do board members help promote and connect people to The Rose? 5. How does The Rose impact the local Houston community? 6. What role do banks and businesses play in supporting The Rose? 7. How can people support or get involved with The Rose?  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

¿Qué es exactamente una mamografía? ¿Duele? ¿Qué pasa cuando llegas? Kathia nos explica el proceso, rompe mitos y comparte por qué muchas mujeres latinas dudan en llamar. Si alguna vez lo ha pospuesto por miedo o falta de información, este episodio es para usted.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nancy and Shelley didn’t plan to share a breast cancer story, much less two very different diagnoses, eight years apart. One faced Stage 0 DCIS at 41 after pushing for a 3D mammogram; the other walked into an annual screening, felt no lump, and still heard “Stage 2 HER2‑Positive.” In this conversation, we talk about what happens when two pragmatic, organized women lean on faith, friendship, and their networks to move fast on treatment—then turn around and use their experience to champion The Rose and the women who rely on us for access to mammograms, diagnostics, and compassionate care. Please consider sharing this episode, or making a donation at therose.org so more women receive breast cancer screening and care. Subscribe to Let’s Talk About Your Breasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, and wherever you get your podcasts. Key questions answered How did Nancy and Shelley each grow up with service and volunteering, and how did that shape their careers and philanthropy? What kind of work do they do in the plastics industry, and how did Shelley end up co‑inventing a “tiltless” liner used around the world? How did Shelley’s first 3D mammogram at 41 lead to a stage zero DCIS diagnosis, and why did she struggle to call it “cancer”? What made Nancy’s diagnosis different—stage two HER2‑positive with no lump—and how did prior research for Shelly help her move quickly? How did Nancy’s long history of volunteering and relationships at Baylor help both mother and daughter fast‑track appointments and treatment? What do they mean by “God winks,” and how did shared surgeons, the same radiologist, and overlapping timelines reinforce their faith? In what ways did cancer deepen—rather than define—their mother–daughter relationship and cement that “best friends” dynamic? How do they each use their stories now to push friends, colleagues, and even their kids to prioritize mammograms and routine screenings? Why is The Rose the organization they chose to champion, and how do insured patients’ mammograms help cover care for uninsured and underinsured women? What do they want listeners to understand about the emotional side of bell‑ringing, being present for each other, and never being “too busy” to schedule preventive care? Timestamped overview 03:20 Welcoming Nancy and Shelley as Everything’s Coming Up Roses honorees; their shared background as successful women in male‑dominated plastics and lifelong volunteers. 07:20 Nancy’s early volunteer roots, decades with arts and civic groups, current work with the Greater Houston Women’s Chamber of Commerce, and Shelley’s career in plastics—including her patented tiltless liner and global travel as a family. 10:00 The “backwards” breast cancer story: Shelley’s stage zero DCIS diagnosis at 41 after pushing for a 3D mammogram, her embarrassment about calling it cancer, and the lack of family history aside from an elderly grandmother. 14:30 Nancy’s 2023 diagnosis: annual mammogram, no lump, stage two HER2‑positive, choosing a world‑class oncologist, and how watching Shelley’s calm, research‑driven approach prepared her. 18:30 How Nancy’s Baylor relationships and volunteer network helped both women move quickly through diagnosis and into treatment; the shared focus on reducing the stress of “waiting” and the role of faith in that season. 22:30 “God winks”: both having the same surgeon, Shelley’s husband later sharing her radiologist, and the reminder that—even for highly organized women—God is still in control. 26:30 How their faith kept them from seeing cancer as punishment, why they refused to play the victim, and how the experience tightened their bond without defining their identities. 31:10 Bell‑ringing surprises: Nancy showing up for Shelley’s bell, Shelley returning the favor and scaring her mom in the parking lot, and how those moments became treasured markers in their journey. 32:44 Using their platform: encouraging others to schedule mammograms, explaining how insured patients at The Rose help fund care for uninsured women, and embracing their “backwards” mother–daughter honoree role to amplify The Rose’s mission and make sure no woman walks around not knowing help is available.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Being a doctor has its challenges, but imagine starting out when women weren't always accepted in medicine. Dr. Elizabeth Bonefas built a practice, stood up for her patients, and guided many through tough breast cancer battles. Dr. Bonefas is the Speaker at this year's Everything's Coming Up Roses Luncheon; you don't want to miss this episode! - She helped care for our youngest ever diagnosed breast cancer patient at The Rose (listen to that episode here)  - She saw surgical and health care changes over the years, from radical treatments to new options. - She shares why women’s health care access is still a struggle, especially for the uninsured. Subscribe to Let’s Talk About Your Breasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, and wherever you get your podcasts. Key Questions Answered 1. How did Dr. Elizabeth Bonefas start her medical career and practice? 2. Did Dr. Bonefas always want to be a doctor? 3. Why did Dr. Bonefas choose to specialize in breast surgery? 4. How has breast cancer surgery changed from the early days of Dr. Bonefas’ career? 5. What challenges do uninsured or underinsured breast cancer patients face? 6. How does insurance status impact access to breast cancer care and treatments? 7. Are younger women being diagnosed with breast cancer more frequently now? 8. What are the current recommendations for breast cancer screening? 9. How has radiation treatment for breast cancer evolved? 10. What barriers still exist for women seeking reconstructive surgery after mastectomy? 11. What additional obstacles do women in Texas, particularly uninsured women, face regarding breast health? 12. Why is pharmacy access and drug costs a significant issue for breast cancer patients? Timestamped Overview 00:00 Interview with Dr. Elizabeth Bonefas  05:20 From General Surgery to Breast Specialist 07:38 Evolution of Surgical Education 09:58 Evolving Lymph Node Biopsy Techniques 13:29 High Biopsy Costs and Insurance Issues 16:47 Healthcare Access Challenges 20:52 Healthcare Affordability Concerns 24:21 Breast Reconstruction Access Issues 28:41 Critique on Patronizing ReassuranceSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Shelley didn’t see herself as “an honoree.” She saw herself as a working mom in a male‑dominated industry who just wanted to stay ahead of breast cancer. In this conversation, she walks us through the mammogram she almost didn’t get, receiving the news of a Stage 0 DCIS diagnosis, and the 10 years of follow‑up, skin checks, and colonoscopies that followed. Her story reminds us that early detection, asking questions, and having access to care—like the care The Rose offers uninsured and underinsured women—can change everything. She also shares why she’s using her role at this year's Everything’s Coming Up Roses Luncheon to spotlight access to mammograms and diagnostics for women who can’t afford them. Please consider sharing this episode, or making a donation at therose.org so more women receive breast cancer screening and care. Subscribe to Let’s Talk About Your Breasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, and wherever you get your podcasts. Key Questions Answered What led Shelley to push for her first 3D mammogram at 41 instead of waiting until 50? How did her history—friends with breast cancer in their 30s and a family member who died—shape her sense of urgency? What does a stage zero DCIS diagnosis mean, and why did she wrestle with whether it “counted” as breast cancer? How did Shelley decide on a shorter, more intense “Canadian” radiation regimen, and what side effects did she experience? How did she talk to her husband and young son about her diagnosis without overwhelming them? In what ways did her workplace support her through biopsy, lumpectomy, and radiation so she could keep working? How did ringing the bell—and seeing her mother there—change how she processed the whole experience emotionally? Why did she become more assertive with doctors about mammograms, Pap smears, and other screenings after cancer? How did later health scares—melanoma on her back and her husband’s colon cancer—reinforce her commitment to early detection? What does Shelley hope listeners understand about The Rose’s role in providing mammograms, diagnostics, and treatment navigation for uninsured and underinsured women? Timestamped overview 03:30 Honoree at Everything’s Coming Up Roses, Shelley’s background as a mom and plastics industry leader, and her mother’s role as a business owner. 07:30 Pushing for an early mammogram at almost 40, getting delayed, then insisting at 41 on a 3D mammogram because of friends and family lost to breast cancer. 10:00 Calcifications, biopsy, lumpectomy, and hearing “stage zero DCIS”; becoming a “Google doctor” and wrestling with whether stage zero “counts” as cancer. 14:30 Choosing a four‑week Canadian radiation regimen, handling side effects, staying organized with questions for every doctor, and finishing treatment. 18:30 Ringing the bell, being surprised by her mom, finally breaking down, and how her kids processed “Mommy is sick but getting treated.” 22:30 Work support, flexible leave, staying on the job through treatment, and the relief of not having to fight employers while fighting cancer. 26:00 Living as a pragmatic, matter‑of‑fact patient, annual anxiety around scans, pushing for Pap smears and colonoscopies, and learning to question doctors. 29:00 Melanoma diagnosis, yearly (now more frequent) skin checks, taking her kids for annual skin exams, and teaching them why preventative care matters. 30:16 Her husband’s colon cancer, why “cancer” is both a scary and hopeful word in their home, and what it means to step into the honoree role to support The Rose’s mission of early detection and access to care for women who can’t afford it.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Road grit meets breast cancer courage in this wild ride from Daytona to Homer that turns one biker into a full‑on breast health champion for his fiance Kathy and uninsured women at The Rose. - Why one long‑distance biker took on the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge to honor his fiancée Kathy and support uninsured women with breast cancer at The Rose. - The brutal, beautiful 11,000‑mile route from Florida through Hurricane Debby, the Keys, the red rocks, Canada, and into Homer, Alaska—and what those miles revealed about people’s kindness. - How a “subset of the biker community nobody hears about” quietly raises over a quarter‑million dollars for charity and reminds us that health, dignity, and access to breast cancer care matter more than anything we own. Please consider sharing this episode, or making a donation at therose.org so more women receive breast cancer screening and care. Subscribe to Let’s Talk About Your Breasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, and wherever you get your podcasts. Key Questions Answered What is the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge, and why do riders call it a spiritual challenge instead of just an endurance ride? How did Mike’s 11,000‑mile ride from Daytona to Homer work, and what did it take to earn “elite rider” status in 14 days? What was it like to ride the Florida Keys in the middle of Hurricane Debby on a loaded bike? How did small‑town strangers—like “Swamp Rat” in Georgia and Gayleen in Taos—step in to help exhausted riders and restore Mike’s faith in people? How did turn‑by‑turn paper directions, back roads, bad signage, and constant detours change the way Mike experienced the country and its communities? What kind of preparation, bike choice, and vetting does it take to even get a spot in Hoka Hey, and why is the field limited to about 100 new riders? How did Kathy’s metastatic breast cancer diagnosis push Mike to turn his love of riding into fundraising for The Rose? In what ways did this ride shift Mike’s beliefs about what matters more: money and stuff, or people, health, and community? How did the ride help Mike process anger about healthcare priorities and inspire him to speak out for women facing breast cancer? Why does Mike say it’s “not about the miles, it’s about what’s in those miles,” and how does that connect to living with and caring through breast cancer? Timestamped Overview 00:00 Dorothy introduces Mike and the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge; Mike explains the event’s purpose, its origin with Jim Red Cloud, and the charity focus for indigenous communities and riders’ chosen causes. 04:45 Earning “elite rider” status, riding 11,017 miles in 14 days, and what it felt like to hit the Homer finish at midnight with his best friend. 07:40 Florida and the Keys in Hurricane Debby: sideways rain, flooded roads, soaked gear, and pushing through when you can’t even use a kickstand. 09:48 Sleeping by the bike, “Swamp Rat” opening the fire station, a Jamaican officer letting him ride on after a red light, and Gayleen in Taos handing out treats and directions. 13:30 Logistics, road confusion, unlabeled highways, extra detours, and the constant puzzle of staying on route while exhausted and chasing time. 17:32 Why Mike rode for Kathy and The Rose: their breast cancer story, her metastatic diagnosis, and turning frustration and helplessness into a fundraiser that reached 27,000 dollars. 21:43 What the journey taught him about people, poverty, food insecurity, generosity, and how stepping away from news and politics reframed what really matters. 23:05 The rules of the ride: American‑made bikes only, relentless back roads, long days in the saddle, sleeping in wet clothes, and learning to read paper directions while riding. 28:30 Dorothy frames Mike’s story as a story of America and of charity: the goodness of strangers, the power of bikers riding for breast cancer care, and why these miles matter for women they’ll never meet.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Personal connections the Everything’s Coming Up Roses Luncheon. Mitra Woody shares how her story led her to champion The Rose and its mission to save lives through early detection. She draws on her healthcare law background to explain why access to preventive breast care remains out of reach for many uninsured and underinsured patients. She points to mobile mammography and patient navigation as the most critical lifelines The Rose offers in vulnerable communities. During this episode, she lays out clear goals for the Everything’s Coming Up Roses Luncheon: raise serious funds, recognize longtime volunteers and spread the word about the work happening every day at The Rose. Please consider sharing this episode, or making a donation at therose.org so more women receive breast cancer screening and care. Subscribe to Let’s Talk About Your Breasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, and wherever you get your podcasts. Key Questions Answered 1. Why did Mitra Woody decide to chair the Everything's Coming Up Roses luncheon? 2. What has Mitra Woody’s experience been attending previous Rose luncheons? 3. Where is Mitra Woody from, and what is her background? 4. How does Mitra Woody’s experience relate to healthcare and access issues? 5. Does Mitra Woody think access to healthcare in Texas will improve? 6. Why is having health insurance important, even if it doesn’t guarantee good health? 7. Has Mitra Woody known anyone who went through breast cancer? 8. What are some myths about breast cancer that the speakers address? 9. What community and volunteer work has Mitra Woody been involved in? 10. What does Mitra Woody believe are the most important services The Rose provides? 11. How does patient navigation help those diagnosed with breast cancer? 12. What are Mitra Woody’s personal goals for the upcoming luncheon? 13. What message does Mitra Woody want to share with women regarding their health? Timestamped Overview 00:00 From Tulsa to Law Career 03:57 Access to Preventative Health Care 07:48 Early Breast Cancer Awareness 11:23 Impact of Writing in Education 15:38 Support and Guidance After Diagnosis 17:36 Importance of Patient Navigation 20:53 Celebrating the Rose's Impact 24:29 Building Support Through Events 27:11 Everyone Welcome AnytimeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why is community support crucial during health crises? In this episode, Dorothy and Nancy Strohmer delve into the significance of showing support and care for others during tough times. Nancy shares her journey through a health crisis, highlighting the importance of receiving support from friends, family, and the community. This experience inspired her mission to help others through awareness and resources.  The conversation underscores the role of faith and community in coping during a crisis. Dorothy stresses the importance of annual mammograms for early detection of breast cancer, recounting a story of a daughter's proactive approach to her health. Nancy's story of her stage two breast cancer diagnosis, caught through a mammogram, emphasizes the importance of early detection. Her successful treatment journey serves as a powerful testament to the advancements in cancer care and the role of regular screenings. Please consider sharing this episode, or making a donation at therose.org so more women receive breast cancer screening and care. Subscribe to Let’s Talk About Your Breasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, and wherever you get your podcasts. Key Questions Answered 1.) Why is community support crucial during health crises? 2.) Why is it important to show support and care for others during difficult times? 3.) How did Nancy Strohmer's community support her during her health crisis? 4.) What role did Nancy's faith play during her health crisis? Timestamped Overview 00:00 Active leader, sold business, focused on family. 04:28 Radiologist predicted breast cancer, chose treatment immediately. 06:41 Grandsons surprise grandmother with get well card. 10:10 Mammogram confusion and importance for older women. 15:38 New passion to raise breast cancer awareness. 16:21 2 critical messages: mammograms save lives, exercise prevents cancer. 20:53 30% city lacks health coverage, women and children disproportionately affected. 24:34 Support and positivity crucial in facing cancer. 26:09 Human connection and thoughtfulness are important. 29:23 Supportive friend aids through tough times in Houston.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Barriers shape the path to care. Emily Reis describes her role as a community engagement navigator for the Rose, connecting rural and urban communities to breast cancer screening resources. She covers Brazos Valley’s counties, teaches early detection, and works with clinics and facilitators to organize mobile mammogram days. Service relies on partnerships and word of mouth. Please consider sharing this episode, or making a donation at therose.org so more women receive breast cancer screening and care. Subscribe to Let’s Talk About Your Breasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, and wherever you get your podcasts. Key Questions Answered 1. What does a Community Engagement Navigator do? 2. How does The Rose address barriers to breast cancer screening in the community? 3. What territory does Emily Reis cover as part of The Rose? 4. How does The Rose serve women in rural areas without imaging centers? 5. How do women make appointments for mobile mammogram days? 6. What role do local facilitators and clinics play in mobile screening events? 7. Why is it important for Community Engagement Navigators to be part of the communities they serve? 8. How does The Rose ensure ongoing support after a mammogram and diagnosis? 9. What motivates Emily Reis personally in her role? 10. How does The Rose promote regular annual mammograms and reach rural areas effectively? Timestamped Overview 00:00 Community Engagement for Life-Saving Connections 04:00 Mobile Imaging Access in Rural Areas 07:11 Building Community Through Public Health 09:34 Community Partnerships for Mobile Mammograms 15:48 Ensuring Cancer Care Access 17:20 Support Through Health Challenges 20:03 Breast Cancer Scare While Pregnant 24:18 Reaching Communities Through Mammograms 27:52 From Awareness to Action 30:03 Gratitude for Dedicated PartnershipsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How do you respond when a friend faces a diagnosis that changes everything? What does real support look like during breast cancer treatment? In this episode, you’ll hear how friendship, early detection, and self-advocacy made a difference. You’ll also learn about the challenges of treatment, the role of caregivers, and ways communities rally when it’s needed most. - Discover what it takes to face fear and make critical decisions. - Hear two friends describe finding strength and asking for help. - See why early action and support networks can impact recovery. Support The Rose HERE. Subscribe to Let’s Talk About Your Breasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, and wherever you get your podcasts. Key Questions Answered How did Anne-Laure discover her breast cancer? How old was Anne-Laure when she was diagnosed with breast cancer? What was Anne-Laure’s experience with her initial diagnosis? How did Anne-Laure finally receive an accurate diagnosis? What type of breast cancer was Anne-Laure diagnosed with? How soon after diagnosis did Anne-Laure begin treatment? Did Ann-Laure use cold caps to try to keep her hair during chemotherapy? What was the role of friends and support in Anne-Laure’s journey? How did Anne-Laure and her husband communicate about her diagnosis and treatment? How did Anne-Laure handle the emotional impact and fear during her breast cancer journey? How did Anne-Laure and Rochelle support each other as friends through the process? What advice does Anne-Laure offer about early detection and self-advocacy? How did the experience change Anne-Laure’s approach to accepting help? How did Anne-Laure process and talk to herself through her treatment? How did Anne-Laure and her community celebrate treatment milestones? Timestamped Overview 00:00 Self-Discovery of Unusual Growth 03:25 Considering a Second Opinion 09:06 "Princess Diana's Influence on Cold Caps" 11:23 Hair Perception and Dry Ice Delivery 15:52 Hospital Freezers: Aiding Neuropathy Treatment 17:00 Finding Humor in Cold Caps 22:59 "Embracing Limits and Early Detection" 24:01 Early Detection Saved My Life 29:25 "Caregiver Struggles and Attention" 32:07 Support Network Eases Transition 35:37 Proactive Help and Support 38:20 Overcoming Fear Through UnderstandingSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

En este episodio, el Dr. Fernando Angarita conversa con las mujeres de la comunidad hispanohablante sobre el cáncer de mama, desmitificando creencias comunes y resaltando la importancia de la detección temprana. Con un mensaje claro y esperanzador, explica cómo los avances médicos y el tamizaje adecuado pueden marcar la diferencia y salvar vidas. Un episodio informativo y motivador que invita a cuidar la salud y tomar acción a tiempo.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Trusting your instincts can change everything. Dorothy Gibbons and Jenny Fitzpatrick talk about early breast cancer diagnosis, persistent self-advocacy, and navigating treatment as a young mother. Jenny Fitzpatrick describes celebrating survivorship, building community, and creating new traditions. Stories connect lives. Experiences shape what comes next. Please consider sharing this episode, or making a donation at therose.org so more women receive breast cancer screening and care. Subscribe to Let’s Talk About Your Breasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, and wherever you get your podcasts. Key Questions Answered 1. How old was Jenny Fitzpatrick when she was diagnosed with breast cancer, and how was it discovered? 2. Was Jenny initially misdiagnosed, and what was the medical response? 3. What symptoms or clues made Jenny pursue a second medical opinion? 4. What was unusual about Jenny’s breast cancer diagnosis and treatment experience? 5. What treatments did Jenny receive, and did she undergo radiation therapy? 6. Why did Jenny opt for a prophylactic second mastectomy, and how did her doctor respond? 7. How long did Jenny’s reconstruction process take, and why was it prolonged? 8. How does Jenny celebrate her breast cancer survivorship annually? 9. What inspired Jenny to start organizing adventure trips, and what are some examples? 10. How did Jenny first learn about the Rose, and why did she become a supporter? Timestamped Overview 00:00 Discovering Health Concerns 04:41 Realization in the Mirror 07:03 Treating Mind and Body 12:12 Breaking Patterns, Trying New Things 16:12 92 Years of Friendship 19:50 The Car Wash Chronicles 22:41 Adventurous Roots in the Northwest 23:43 Empowering Adventures for Women 27:59 Extra Years, Extra Love 30:06 Gratitude and PolitenessSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dorothy is joined by Ronnie Haggerty, a board member of The Rose, who recounts her personal story of rallying together with friends years ago when a close friend was diagnosed with breast cancer. She describes the important role friends can play during this time; a role no other person can fill. This was also the first time she encountered seeing the different ways The Rose helps women. Known for her deep understanding of philanthropy and the regulations governing 501(c)3 organizations, Ronnie has spent her career helping nonprofits grow and become sustainable. If you’ve ever thought about starting a nonprofit, Ronnie has some sage advice that may surprise you. The nonprofit sector brings its own kind of challenges, yet they fill the gap in providing resources and services to the community. Please consider sharing this episode, or making a donation at therose.org so more women receive breast cancer screening and care. Subscribe to Let’s Talk About Your Breasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, and wherever you get your podcasts. Key Questions Answered 1.) How can nonprofits operate effectively? 2.) What are key things to consider when determining whether to start a nonprofit? 3.) What are some of the significant challenges uninsured women face in terms of accessing healthcare and what can nonprofits do to help? Chapters 00:00 The Importance of Nonprofits and Best Business Practices 09:33 Advice for Starting a Nonprofit 26:16 Challenges Faced by Uninsured Women 28:40 The Role of The Rose in Providing Healthcare AccessSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Asking for help is never easy. Dorothy Gibbons introduces Kathia, manager at The Rose’s southeast location. Three departments fall under Kathia’s leadership: medical records, registration, and sponsorship programs. The Rose offers care and access, removing barriers like language, cost, and transportation. Even after diagnosis, bilingual patient navigators remain with patients, helping them through paperwork and treatment. Preventive care and self-advocacy are emphasized throughout. Please consider sharing this episode, or making a donation at therose.org so more women receive breast cancer screening and care. Subscribe to Let’s Talk About Your Breasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, and wherever you get your podcasts. Key Questions Answered 1. What is Kathia’s role at The Rose?2. What does 'removing barriers' mean at The Rose?3. How does the sponsorship program at The Rose work?4. Why is it hard for women to ask for help regarding their healthcare?5. What is the process for patients who may need sponsorship?6. How does Kathia personally relate to patients at The Rose?7. What support does The Rose provide for patients diagnosed with breast cancer and facing barriers?8. How does the new system at The Rose improve patient experience? Timestamped Overview 00:00 Patient-Centered Care Program 05:20 Building Relationships Before Sponsorship 08:07 Healthcare Barriers for Non-English Speakers 11:02 Support Resources for Cancer Patients 13:13 Patient Education Process Explained 18:15 Teaching Self-Advocacy to Kids 22:32 Compassionate Staff with Shared Experiences 23:13 Connection and Mission ForwardSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Misinformation still finds its way into the conversation. Dorothy Gibbons and Dr. Raz dive into breast cancer myths, mammogram safety, risk factors, and common social media claims. They sort through concerns about bras, deodorants, cell phones, diet, and trauma. Evidence and screening guidelines guide the facts during this episode. Please consider sharing this episode, or making a donation at therose.org so more women receive breast cancer screening and care. Subscribe to Let’s Talk About Your Breasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, and wherever you get your podcasts. Key Questions Answered 1. Does getting a mammogram increase your risk of developing breast cancer due to radiation exposure? 2. Why is there so much controversy and skepticism surrounding mammograms and breast cancer screening, especially compared to other screenings? 3. Is breast cancer only a concern for women with a family history of the disease? 4. Is breast cancer purely an older woman’s disease, or can younger women get it too? 5. Does wearing an underwire bra or any bra cause breast cancer? 6. Can deodorant use (especially with aluminum) lead to breast cancer? 7. Is carrying a cell phone in your bra (or close to your body) a cause of breast cancer? 8. Does hair dye or using plastic water bottles increase breast cancer risk? 9. Does hormone replacement therapy (HRT) increase breast cancer risk? 10. Can breast injury or trauma cause breast cancer? 11. Does obesity relate to breast cancer risk? 12. Can animals sense breast cancer in humans? 13. Are alternative treatments or internet trends (like ivermectin or bee venom) effective against breast cancer? 14. Is it important for patients to trust their doctor and treatment process? Timestamped Overview 00:00 Mammogram Radiation: Safe and Essential 04:22 Annual Screening Controversy Explained 08:28 Breast Cancer: Risks and Incidence 11:14 Impact of Treating Women's Diseases 13:52 Aluminum in Deodorant Safe 18:29 HRT Risks and Tapering Explained 25:52 Ivermectin Misuse and Clinical Trials 28:51 Health's Role in Cancer Prevention 29:47 Poison Necessary to Fight CancerSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cookie Joe has spent her life teaching dance, shaping not just technique but character, faith, and compassion in her students. When cancer struck, she embraced it as a purposeful challenge, inspiring her community through fundraisers, open conversations, and shared strength. Her story is a celebration of resilience, community, and faith over fear. If this conversation matters to you, share the episode with your family and friends and consider making a donation at therose.org so more women receive breast cancer screening and care. Subscribe to Let’s Talk About Your Breasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, and wherever you get your podcasts. Key Questions Answered How did Cookie begin dancing so early in life? Why is dance such an important part of Cookie's identity? What unique fundraiser is Cookie's dance school doing for breast cancer awareness? Why are butterflies used as an emblem in her school’s breast cancer awareness activities? What types of dance and performing arts does Cookie's school teach, and who attends? How does Cookie make dance accessible to children with disabilities or limited opportunities? In what ways does dance challenge and engage the brain, and how might it affect cognitive health? How does dance serve as spiritual practice and meditation for Cookie? What was Cookie's experience with breast cancer, particularly during COVID? How did breast cancer impact Cookie's relationships and outlook? Timestamped Overview 00:00 From Doctor Dreams to Music 03:15 "From Volunteer to Choir Teacher" 09:17 Finding Humor During Adversity 11:44 "Trust Me, We'll Be Fine" 15:59 Community Fair with Local Support 18:50 Community Support Through Collaboration 23:17 "Building Trust Through Connection" 26:40 "Empowering Women Through The Rose" 28:30 "Embracing Unique Personal Stories"See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Keyanna McKenzie went from navigating family history and personal health challenges to creating the "Boobies and Babes" event, empowering women to prioritize their health. Her mission is to break the silence, foster community, and make conversations about breasts and self-exams a normal part of life. Inspired by her grandmothers and her own experiences, she now advocates for advocacy, awareness, and living dreams fully. If this conversation matters to you, share the episode with your family and friends and consider making a donation at therose.org so more women receive breast cancer screening and care. Subscribe to Let’s Talk About Your Breasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, and wherever you get your podcasts. Key Questions Answered How did Keyanna first learn about The Rose? What led Keyanna to seek breast health care at a young age? What was Keyanna's first experience at The Rose like? Does Keyanna have a family history of breast cancer? How did Keyanna discover her own breast lump? How did Keyanna process the discovery of her lump and what was her next step? What role did The Rose play in Keyanna’s diagnostic journey? What inspired Keyanna to create the “Boobies and Babes” event? What is unique about the “Boobies and Babes” event, and who is it for? How does Keyanna address the stigma or lack of conversation among young women regarding breast health? Why is genetic counseling and understanding risk factors important, according to Keyanna? What challenges does Keyanna identify for women in accessing breast health care? Timestamped Overview 00:00 "Breast Cancer Journey in Houston" 05:49 Pain, Caffeine, and Reality 09:41 "Normalizing Breast Health Conversations" 11:11 Young Women’s Health Awareness 13:54 "Advocating Wellness and Awareness" 19:37 "Honoring Memories and Love" 21:16 Edo Event With Modern Flair 23:34 "Be Your Own Advocate" 26:45 Empowering Women & Young CreativesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.