This is Cancer

It can be scary, difficult and complicated, but it doesn’t always have to be. … Lung cancer is the No. 1 cause of cancer deaths — not just because of its aggressive nature, but because it’s also frequently diagnosed late. But why? Hear from two survivors about their experiences and the importance of screening, which can catch lung cancer earlier, when it’s more treatable.    “This is Cancer” is brought to you by Siteman Cancer Center at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, and produced at Spot Content Studio in St. Louis, MO.   For more information on topics discussed in this episode, go to: https://siteman.wustl.edu/ https://siteman.wustl.edu/treatment/cancer-types/lung-cancer/ https://siteman.wustl.edu/treatment/cancer-types/lung-cancer/treatments/ https://siteman.wustl.edu/lung-cancer-screening/ https://siteman.wustl.edu/prevention/smoking-cessation-program/ https://siteman.wustl.edu/prevention/ydr/ https://www.smokingpackyears.com/ https://smokefree.gov/ https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/lung-cancer/saved-by-the-scan

"This is Cancer" returns for a second season - honest, compelling, and inspiring stories from cancer patients and the physicians who put forth miraculous efforts to treat them. This series is the perfect companion podcast - not only for people who’ve been touched by cancer, but for those of us who simply love the human experience. Brought to you by Siteman Cancer Center at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, National Leaders in Cancer. "This is Cancer" premieres everywhere May 10th. “This is Cancer” is brought to you by Siteman Cancer Center at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, and produced at Spot Content Studio in St. Louis, MO. For more information, visit siteman.wustl.edu

Travis, a patient with metastatic bladder cancer, has discovered new meaning in life since learning his cancer was incurable. The 50-year-old shares a perspective that left hosts Laura and Patrick speechless — and nearly everyone in tears. Travis credits his WashU Medicine oncologist, Melissa Reimers, MD, for focusing on his treatment so he can focus on “living his best life” — including by dressing up as Santa to bring joy to kids diagnosed with cancer. Travis and Dr. Reimers’  uplifting relationship and Travis’s unique approach to the season remind us of the unexpected gifts found even during life’s most challenging times.   “This is Cancer” is brought to you by Siteman Cancer Center at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and Wash U Medicine, and produced at Spot Content Studio in St. Louis, MO.   For more information on topics discussed in this episode, go to: www.UncleTravisSantaClaus.com

Join us as we sit down with three leading experts from Siteman Cancer Center: a breast surgeon, a medical oncologist, and a breast imaging radiologist. Together, they reveal the cutting-edge advancements in breast cancer detection and treatment—straight from the front lines of research and patient care.   From groundbreaking imaging technologies and recommendations on assessing a woman’s risk to surgical techniques and therapies, learn what’s changing in breast cancer care and what is on the horizon.    “This is Cancer” is brought to you by Siteman Cancer Center at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and Wash U Medicine, and produced at Spot Content Studio in St. Louis, MO.   For more information on topics discussed in this episode, go to: https://siteman.wustl.edu/visiting/patient-and-family-services/empoweringmbc/ https://siteman.wustl.edu/visiting/patient-and-family-services/metastatic-breast-cancer-support-group/  https://siteman.wustl.edu/prevention/mammography/locations/mammography-van/ https://siteman.wustl.edu/prevention/mammography/ https://siteman.wustl.edu/treatment/cancer-types/breast-cancer/clinical-trials/ https://siteman.wustl.edu/prevention/ydr/

It’s hard not to compare Jenna’s life story to a novel. At age 15, she and her world were upended by lymphoma, a cancer of the immune system. As words like biopsy, chemo and radiation therapy became daily realities, her high school sweetheart, Colton, remained steadfast at her side, and her mother, Theresa, meticulously advocated for her care. Even after a relapse, Jenna was inspired by her  oncology team at Siteman Kids at St. Louis Children’s Hospital to stay the course.   Motivated by her care providers, Jenna later pursued a career of her own in nursing, married Colton and, after giving birth to a daughter and a son, became a nurse in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) – again inspired by the care providers in her life. This episode features Jenna alongside her mother, Theresa, her WashU Medicine pediatric oncologist, David Wilson, MD, and nurse practitioner Debra Spoljaric, RN, MSNP, who leads Siteman Cancer Center’s Lifelong Outcomes Clinic for survivors of childhood cancer. Jenna shares examples of courage, resilience and love — and the promise of a storybook ending.   “This is Cancer” is brought to you by Siteman Cancer Center at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and Wash U Medicine, and produced at Spot Content Studio in St. Louis, MO.   For more information on topics discussed in this episode, go to: https://siteman.wustl.edu/patients/ https://www.stlouischildrens.org/conditions-treatments/oncology-services/why-choose-us https://siteman.wustl.edu/treatment/survivorship/ https://fertility.wustl.edu/treatments-services/integrated-care-fertility-preservation-progra m/ https://www.stlouischildrens.org/conditions-treatments/oncology-services/proton-beam-therapy https://www.stlouischildrens.org/conditions-treatments/oncology-services/cancer-support

When you're diagnosed with cancer, everything changes — except your kids still need dinner, stories, clean clothes and someone to kiss them goodnight. In this episode, Faith shares how she and her husband navigated her stage 4 cancer diagnosis while raising two young daughters. With support from her care team and community, they worked to keep routines steady, emotions honest, and hope alive. Joined by WashU Medicine gynecologic oncologist Andrea Hagemann, MD, and WashU Medicine clinical psychologist Amaris Tippey, PhD, we explore the emotional toll of parenting through illness, the power of honest conversations with kids, and how love, support and boundaries can carry a family through the unimaginable. This is an episode about resilience, community and the kind of strength that grows in the hardest places.   “This is Cancer” is brought to you by Siteman Cancer Center at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and Wash U Medicine, and produced at Spot Content Studio in St. Louis, MO.   For more information on topics discussed in this episode, go to: https://siteman.wustl.edu/patients/ https://siteman.wustl.edu/visiting/patient-and-family-services/social-work-services/ https://siteman.wustl.edu/treatment/siteman-psychology-service/ https://siteman.wustl.edu/visiting/patient-and-family-services/support-groups-at-siteman/

At 31, Colin was healthy and active — until a sudden cough and trouble breathing led to a diagnosis that would change everything: a rare form of cancer, acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Having faced a grueling regimen of cancer treatment, Colin opens up about the harsh realities of side effects. Brain fog, nausea, weakness, smell sensitivity —side effects  impacted every aspect of life.  WashU Medicine medical oncologist Armin Ghobadi, MD, who has personally invested in researching and developing new treatments for blood cancers, joins the conversation. He offers expert insight into the challenges of intensive cancer treatments and how patients need to speak up about their symptoms so their team can navigate it with them. Together, they aim to bring hope, reassurance and practical advice to anyone feeling overwhelmed or worn down on their own path through cancer treatment.   “This is Cancer” is brought to you by Siteman Cancer Center at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and Wash U Medicine, and produced at Spot Content Studio in St. Louis, MO.   For more information on topics discussed in this episode, go to: https://siteman.wustl.edu/patients/ https://siteman.wustl.edu/treatment/cancer-types/leukemia/ https://siteman.wustl.edu/treatment/cancer-types/leukemia/treatments/ https://siteman.wustl.edu/treatment/survivorship/ https://siteman.wustl.edu/treatment/specialized-programs/stem-cell-transplant-and-cellular-therapies-center/   Episode 18: Mind over Cancer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upUUDxVcRfs&list=PLAvCzAIAfHmEnRXa3ov9K1gdC8_tLJrRE&index=32 Bonus Episode: Differentiating Leukemia and Lymphoma https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9KV5dkOGo1s&list=PLAvCzAIAfHmEnRXa3ov9K1gdC8_tLJrRE&index=47

Humor, silence, avoidance and isolation — each is a common response to a cancer diagnosis. But these traits, particularly common in men, can harm their mental health as they fight the disease. This episode thoughtfully explores the experiences of co-host Patrick, two-time cancer survivor Mellve and other men who have shared their stories on our podcast. Wash U Medicine clinical psychologist David Morris, PhD, highlights starting points to identify emotions and self-regulate, as well as other beneficial mental health practices. Together we confront the cultural norms that urge men to bottle things up and discuss how opening up becomes a strength.   “This is Cancer” is brought to you by Siteman Cancer Center at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and Wash U Medicine, and produced at Spot Content Studio in St. Louis, MO.   For more information on topics discussed in this episode, go to: https://siteman.wustl.edu/treatment/siteman-psychology-service/ https://siteman.wustl.edu/patients/ https://siteman.wustl.edu/treatment/cancer-types/prostate/ https://siteman.wustl.edu/prevention/ydr/

After Dean first had a melanoma removed from his leg, he thought his cancer story was over. But when it returned and spread, everything changed. With the help of his WashU Medicine medical oncologist Alice Zhou, MD, PhD, and groundbreaking immunotherapy, Dean fought through life-threatening side effects — and won. Now healthy and in remission, Dean shares his journey of resilience, the lessons he learned about sun care, and why awareness matters more than ever this Melanoma and Skin Cancer Awareness Month.   “This is Cancer” is brought to you by Siteman Cancer Center at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, and produced at Spot Content Studio in St. Louis, MO.   For more information on topics discussed in this episode, go to: https://siteman.wustl.edu/doctor/zhou-alice/ https://siteman.wustl.edu/treatment/cancer-types/skin/ https://getscreenednow.com/ https://siteman.wustl.edu/ncipdq/skin-cancer-screening-pdq-patient-version/

At 49, Jeremy never imagined testicular cancer — but experiencing sharp pain sent him to the doctor, and a Stage 3 diagnosis prompted him to change providers and go to Siteman. He and his wife, Robyn, open up about the grueling treatment journey, the tough side effects, and how WashU Medicine oncologist Dr. John Visconti adapted care to keep Jeremy on track. Dr. Visconti also shares a simple way every man can take charge of his testicular health.   “This is Cancer” is brought to you by Siteman Cancer Center at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and Wash U Medicine, and produced at Spot Content Studio in St. Louis, MO.   For more information on topics discussed in this episode, go to: https://siteman.wustl.edu/treatment/cancer-types/testicular/ https://siteman.wustl.edu/doctor/visconti-john/ https://getscreenednow.com/  

Morgan had not turned 45 yet, so she hadn’t received a screening colonoscopy for colorectal cancer. But when she noticed blood in her stool at age 41, she did exactly what she should have and sought medical evaluation. After months of missteps became years of dismissive care, she realized it was time for a second opinion at Siteman Cancer Center. With the help of WashU Medicine radiation oncologist Hyun Kim, MD, co-director of the Young-Onset Colorectal Cancer Program, Morgan was given a treatment plan that provided the care she needed. In this episode, we discuss her persistence and dedication to getting herself the best care for her young-onset colorectal cancer diagnosis.   “This is Cancer” is brought to you by Siteman Cancer Center at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, and produced at Spot Content Studio in St. Louis, MO.   For more information on topics discussed in this episode, go to: https://siteman.wustl.edu/treatment/cancer-types/colorectal/young-onset-colorectal-cancer-program/ https://siteman.wustl.edu/treatment/cancer-types/colorectal/prevention-and-screening/  https://siteman.wustl.edu/doctor/kim-hyun/ https://getscreenednow.com/colon-cancer/ https://getscreenednow.com/insurance/  

After minor blurred vision prompted Ellen to get an eye exam, she was surprised to learn she had a mass in the middle of her brain near the nerve connected to her left eye. A referral to Siteman quickly led to the diagnosis of a brain tumor. Fortunately, it was noncancerous and had a surgical solution. Washington University neurosurgeon Albert Kim, MD, PhD, director of The Brain Tumor Center at Siteman, explains minimally invasive surgery techniques and other new treatments that speed recovery for benign tumor patients like Ellen and others facing brain cancer.   “This is Cancer” is brought to you by Siteman Cancer Center at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, and produced at Spot Content Studio in St. Louis, MO.   For more information on topics discussed in this episode, go to: https://siteman.wustl.edu/thisiscancer/ https://siteman.wustl.edu/ https://siteman.wustl.edu/neuro-oncology/ https://siteman.wustl.edu/treatment/cancer-types/brain-tumor-center/

When Byron was diagnosed with prostate cancer, he underwent surgery to have it removed. But when doctors noticed his PSA levels were still rising following the procedure, they offered him access to an open clinical trial. Byron shares his experiences from the 6-month trial along with his Washington University radiation oncologist Lannis Hall, MD. From upsides, to side effects, Byron and Dr. Hall use his story to illustrate the benefits of clinical trials, and how each trial's research furthers our understanding and potential cures for cancer.   “This is Cancer” is brought to you by Siteman Cancer Center at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, and produced at Spot Content Studio in St. Louis, MO.   For more information on topics discussed in this episode, go to: https://siteman.wustl.edu/ https://siteman.wustl.edu/research/learn-about-clinical-trials/ https://siteman.wustl.edu/treatment/clinical-trials/ https://siteman.wustl.edu/treatment/clinical-trials/?path=gu-bladder-kidney-prostate-testicular-prostate https://siteman.wustl.edu/treatment/cancer-types/prostate/treatments/radiation-therapy-for-prostate-cancer/ https://siteman.wustl.edu/treatment/cancer-types/prostate/treatments/ https://siteman.wustl.edu/about/dei/

Former NHL player Kelly Chase is known as one of the toughest guys to wear a St. Louis Blues jersey, racking up more than 2,000 penalty minutes in his career. But when his Washington University medical oncologist Dr. Ramzi Abboud diagnosed him with acute myeloid leukemia in 2023, Chase learned he was facing an opponent different than anything he challenged on the ice – one needing more than brute force.    Listen as Chase and Dr. Abboud share the intense and taxing treatment plan needed to overcome Chase’s rare cancer and what Chase learned about himself during his time at Siteman Cancer Center.     “This is Cancer” is brought to you by Siteman Cancer Center at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, and produced at Spot Content Studio in St. Louis, MO.   For more information on topics discussed in this episode, go to: https://siteman.wustl.edu/thisiscancer/ https://siteman.wustl.edu/ https://siteman.wustl.edu/treatment/cancer-types/leukemia/ https://stlbluesalumni.com/Events/Puck-Cancer-Charity-Game  

In January of his senior year, Thomas was stretching and noticed a painless bump on the back of his hamstring. The 3-sport athlete thought nothing of it. But by the spring, the lump had grown to the size of a baseball. Thomas was immediately directed to Siteman kids where Washington University pediatric oncologist, Dr. Amy Armstrong, confirmed the mass was a sarcoma. Listen as Thomas, his mom Amelia, and Dr. Armstrong describe the long, intense treatment plan that delayed his plans for college football, and the mental grit it took to return to the sport he loved. Thomas also shares the advice he has for other young athletes.    After a diagnosis, every Siteman patient and their medical team develops a treatment plan, and every treatment plan becomes as unique as the patient it supports. Chuck learned how to tailor a treatment plan firsthand as he acted as a caregiver to his son, and again when he faced a cancer diagnosis himself. In this episode, Chuck shares his experience alongside Tate Rondot, Siteman’s Manager of Support Services. Both are involved in Siteman’s Patient and Family Advisory Council (PFAC), a group dedicated to helping every patient create the plan they need during their cancer care. They offer considerations and resources that personalize patients’  treatment from diagnosis to hospice and every stage in between.   “This is Cancer” is brought to you by Siteman Cancer Center at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, and produced at Spot Content Studio in St. Louis, MO.   For more information on topics discussed in this episode, go to: https://siteman.wustl.edu/ https://siteman.wustl.edu/treatment/specialized-programs/sarcoma/ https://www.stlouischildrens.org/conditions-treatments/childhood-cancer-survivorship-program https://www.stlouischildrens.org/conditions-treatments/oncology-services/proton-beam-therapy https://siteman.wustl.edu/treatment/cancer-types/childhood-cancers/ https://siteman.wustl.edu/visiting/kids/ https://siteman.wustl.edu/doctor/armstong-amy/ https://siteman.wustl.edu/treatment/cancer-types/sarcoma/

The early symptoms were not clear. But after feeling “off” for a few days following a trip abroad, Candice took herself to the ER. Soon after, she was diagnosed with Stage 4 endometrial cancer. She was just 41. With the guidance and expertise of Washington University gynecologic oncologist, Dr. Premal Thaker, Candice welcomes each day, meeting it with unrelenting tenacity and spirit. Dr. Thaker shares about the rise of endometrial cancers in the U.S. (and globally) and discusses the red flag every postmenopausal woman needs to know. Listen to Candice’s story and witness the powerful bond between patient and doctor with a common goal: fueling life with hope while facing cancer.    “This is Cancer” is brought to you by Siteman Cancer Center at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, and produced at Spot Content Studio in St. Louis, MO.   For more information on topics discussed in this episode, go to: https://siteman.wustl.edu/ https://siteman.wustl.edu/treatment/cancer-types/uterus-endometrial/ https://siteman.wustl.edu/treatment/cancer-types/uterus-endometrial/symptoms-risks-and-diagnosis/ https://siteman.wustl.edu/treatment/cancer-types/uterus-endometrial/genetic-counseling-for-gynecologic-cancers/ https://siteman.wustl.edu/treatment/siteman-psychology-service/ https://getscreenednow.com/ https://siteman.wustl.edu/doctor/premal-thaker-md-ms/ https://siteman.wustl.edu/treatment/specialized-programs/gynecologic-oncology/

After a diagnosis, every Siteman patient and their medical team develops a treatment plan, and every treatment plan becomes as unique as the patient it supports. Chuck learned how to tailor a treatment plan firsthand as he acted as a caregiver to his son, and again when he faced a cancer diagnosis himself. In this episode, Chuck shares his experience alongside Tate Rondot, Siteman’s Manager of Support Services. Both are involved in Siteman’s Patient and Family Advisory Council (PFAC), a group dedicated to helping every patient create the plan they need during their cancer care. They offer considerations and resources that personalize patients’  treatment from diagnosis to hospice and every stage in between.   “This is Cancer” is brought to you by Siteman Cancer Center at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, and produced at Spot Content Studio in St. Louis, MO.   For more information on topics discussed in this episode, go to: https://siteman.wustl.edu/ https://siteman.wustl.edu/about/committees/patient-and-family-advisory-committee-pfac/ https://siteman.wustl.edu/visiting/patient-and-family-services/ https://siteman.wustl.edu/treatment/cancer-types/brain-tumor-center/ https://siteman.wustl.edu/treatment/cancer-types/prostate/ https://siteman.wustl.edu/treatment/siteman-psychology-service/ https://siteman.wustl.edu/treatment/survivorship/  

Caring for a cancer patient can be a daunting undertaking, but also a meaningful act of love. In this episode, Courtney shares her journey as a caregiver for her husband, Charlie. She supported him as he battled a brain tumor for 18 of their 19 years of marriage. Patrick and Laura also share their experiences of caring for their fathers. Washington University clinical psychologist, Dr. Jennifer Romo, offers her expertise in helping caregivers. Through Siteman’s support groups and individual sessions she helps them find balance in their lives, and validates their need to express and process the full spectrum of emotions.      “This is Cancer” is brought to you by Siteman Cancer Center at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, and produced at Spot Content Studio in St. Louis, MO.   For more information on topics discussed in this episode, go to: https://siteman.wustl.edu/treatment/siteman-psychology-service/ https://siteman.wustl.edu/visiting/patient-and-family-services/ https://www.cancersupportcommunity.org/ https://annieshope.org/ https://www.cancer.org/cancer/caregivers.html https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/coping/caregiver-support https://siteman.wustl.edu/treatment/survivorship/

Cancer throws a lot of challenges - physical and mental - at patients. It can impact many areas of life, whether it’s deciding if or how to tell loved ones, how to navigate relationship changes or even dealing with depression or anxiety. Licensed clinical psychologist Jessica Vanderlan, PhD, returns to the show to discuss these effects and how to boost mental and emotional well-being. The head of psychological counseling at Siteman Cancer Center, she emphasizes the need to prioritize mental health and offers insight and hope for patients and family members alike.   “This is Cancer” is brought to you by Siteman Cancer Center at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, and produced at Spot Content Studio in St. Louis, MO.   For more information on topics discussed in this episode, go to: https://siteman.wustl.edu/treatment/siteman-psychology-service/ https://siteman.wustl.edu/treatment/survivorship/ https://siteman.wustl.edu/visiting/patient-and-family-services/ https://www.cancer.org/cancer/survivorship/coping.html https://www.cancersupportcommunity.org/

A moment of joy and a moment of deep change converge as patients ring the bell at the end of their treatment. This shift often calls for a different kind of care. Jessica Vanderlan, PhD, a clinical psychologist and manager of Siteman Psychology Service, and Rochelle Hobson, RN, MSN, CHPN, manager of Siteman’s Survivorship Program, explain how their specialized training helps patients address the complexities of life after cancer treatment. And Jay, a Siteman Cancer Center patient, shares his first-hand experience navigating anxiety, change, and follow-up scans with help from the program’s free mental health services.   “This is Cancer” is brought to you by Siteman Cancer Center at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, and produced at Spot Content Studio in St. Louis, MO.   For more information on topics discussed in this episode, go to: https://siteman.wustl.edu/ https://siteman.wustl.edu/treatment/survivorship/ https://siteman.wustl.edu/treatment/siteman-psychology-service/ https://siteman.wustl.edu/visiting/patient-and-family-services/