Living Hope

Absolutely—and Wendy Hammers is living proof. In this uplifting episode, comedian and 10-year pancreatic cancer survivor Wendy Hammers shares how humor, early diagnosis, and a blend of Western and Eastern healing helped her face cancer with courage and joy. She reflects on her mindset shift, the evolution of her one-woman show Ripe, and why she refuses to let cancer define her. Wendy’s journey is a reminder that healing isn’t just about medicine—it’s also about laughter, love, and living with intention, sometimes laughter truly is the best medicine!

Debbie Soldano a seasoned nurse practitioner with over 25 years of oncology experience, shares pancreatic cancer prevention, patient care, and summer wellness tips. Debbie shares her personal connection to the disease through the loss of her sister, giving heartfelt insight into the emotional impact of a diagnosis and how it shapes her compassionate approach to patient care. Debbie also offers valuable health guidance for patients navigating chemo or radiation during hot summer months, including hydration strategies, sun protection, and practical nutrition tips. Tune in for a thoughtful, hopeful conversation aimed at helping patients, families, and caregivers stay informed and empowered—especially in the summer sun. 🎙️ Only on OC Talk Radio, livestreamed from the UCI Beall Applied Innovation Center.

We’re honored to share the story of Gerri Weiner, a three-year pancreatic cancer thriver. Diagnosed unexpectedly after a routine CT scan revealed a shadow on her pancreas, Gerri’s journey reminds us of the power of early detection. Eight years before her diagnosis, Gerri’s father was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, making her own diagnosis all the more surreal. Now, she uses her voice to bring awareness, hope, and encouragement to others. In this heartfelt conversation, Gerri opens up about survivor’s guilt, protecting her children’s future, and finding purpose through advocacy. From “shadow on the scan” to thriver, advocate, and inspiration—Gerri’s journey is one you won’t want to miss. #PancreaticCancer #CancerSurvivor #Thriver #LivingHopePodcast #EarlyDetection #CancerAwareness #Advocacy #Hope #PancreaticCancerAwareness    

In this episode, we welcome Ken Miller, a stage 1 pancreatic cancer survivor diagnosed less than a year ago—one of the earliest diagnoses we've featured. Ken shares how subtle signs like rising blood sugar and digestive issues led to a critical second opinion that changed everything. He opens up about the physical and emotional challenges of treatment and recovery, including fatigue, neuropathy, and finding his "new normal." Ken also reflects on the vital role his wife and children played throughout his journey and offers powerful advice for others: trust your instincts, speak up, and never ignore changes in your health. Ken’s story is a moving reminder that early detection, determination, and strong support can make a life-saving difference.

In honor of National Cancer Survivor Month, Living Hope kicks off June with pancreatic cancer survivor and former educator Wes Semple. After a shocking diagnosis in 2005, Wes underwent emergency surgery and grueling treatment—but survival was only the beginning. In this episode, Wes shares how he transformed his experience into purpose, becoming a passionate advocate, mentor, and voice of hope for others facing this disease. From returning to the classroom to lobbying in Washington, Wes reminds us that survivorship can spark lifelong impact. #LivingHopePodcast #PancreaticCancerSurvivor #CancerSurvivorMonth #WesSemple #PanCAN #HopeInAction #SurvivorStory #CancerAdvocacy #CancerSupport #PurpleStride  

We continue the conversation on the link between pancreatic cancer and diabetes with Dr. Afreen Shariff, who explains the vital role hormone specialists play in symptom management and care coordination. Dr Shariff also introduces Citrus Oncology, her virtual platform offering endocrine support nationwide. Cindy Gavin of Let’s Win Pancreatic Cancer shares tools like their Clinical Trial Finder and Doctor Finder, along with the value of their fully bilingual website.

The Symposium empowers Patients and Caregivers by offering cutting-edge insights on surgical advancements, practical guidance on nutrition and mindfulness, and real-life perspectives from survivors and caregivers.  The 19th Annual Hirshberg Symposium empowers patients and caregivers with the knowledge, resources, and support they need to navigate the pancreatic cancer journey with confidence and hope. 📅 Event Details: April 5th at UCLA’s Luskin Conference Center. Free to attend with a healthy lunch included. 🌐 Register online at: pancreatic.org  

Clinical trials aren’t a last resort—they’re a pathway to better treatments and new hope. In this episode of Living Hope, guest Robert Panacci joins us to dispel common myths about clinical trials. We also explore how venture capital funding is driving innovation and accelerating breakthroughs in cancer research.  

On this episode of Living Hope, we explore the powerful connection between diabetes and pancreatic cancer with Dr. Afreen Shariff (Citrus Oncology, Duke University) and Cindy Gavin (Let’s Win Pancreatic Cancer) Topics include: 🔹 Diabetes as a warning sign 🔹 Overlapping symptoms & delayed diagnosis 🔹 Blood sugar management in cancer care 🔹 Patient advocacy & awareness 🔹 Let’s Win’s NEW trial & doctor finders This episode is a powerful reminder that awareness, self-advocacy, and early intervention can make a difference. With organizations like Let’s Win and innovations like Citrus Oncology, patients now have more resources and support than ever before. #LivingHopePodcast #PancreaticCancer #DiabetesAndCancer #LetsWinPC #HopeInAction #SurvivorStrong #EarlyDetection #CitrusOncology

Gary Fong, a retired automotive executive, passionate and dedicated advocate who has been living with pancreatic cancer for over eight years. Diagnosed in 2016, Gary shares his journey through surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, as well as the critical role of community support in helping him stay positive and motivated. Through resilience, advocacy, and the support of loved ones, Gary continues to live an active life while championing hope, awareness, and research. His story is a powerful reminder that no one fights alone.

In this episode of Living Hope, we explore the critical topic of emergency preparedness for pancreatic cancer patients, with a special focus on natural disasters like wildfires. Guest, Alejandra Alvarez, Associate Director, Patient Services, Research and Education with the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, shares practical tips on creating a grab-and-go kit, including essentials like medications, important documents, and personal items. We also delve into the emotional challenges patients and caregivers face during emergencies, emphasizing the need for mental health support. Tune in for a conversation filled with practical insights, hope, and inspiration. "As long as you speak my name, I shall live forever," is dedicated to Marianna DeBonis #PancreaticCancer #EmergencyPreparedness #StayPrepared #GrabAndGoKit #DisasterPreparedness    

Wildfires in LA County are taking a heavy toll, with historic blazes impacting areas like Pacific Palisades and Eaton. Emergency preparedness is critical—especially for cancer patients who need grab-and-go kits (meds, records, contacts) and N95 masks to combat poor air quality. Meanwhile, promising pancreatic cancer research is creating hope for early detection and improved treatments, even as funding and end-of-life discussions remain key issues. Thoughts and prayers to all affected. #Wildfires #EmergencyPrep #CancerResearch #PancreaticCancer

January is Clinical Awareness Month on Living Hope, survivor *Robert Panacci joined us to discuss clinical trials, cancer research funding, and the power of advocacy. Together, we tackled misconceptions, government accountability, and the urgent need for early detection in pancreatic cancer. "As long as you speak my name I shall live forever," is dedicated to Jack Santeramo *Rob is a recurring guest. Catch up on his inspiring journey in previous episodes, where he shares his story of resilience and hope. Watch on OC Talk Radio’s YouTube or listen on most podcast platforms.      

Teona Ducre is a pancreatic cancer survivor who uses her personal journey to raise awareness about the disease, particularly within the Black community. Diagnosed in 2016, she empowers individuals to advocate for themselves and emphasizes the importance of early detection. As a member of PanCAN’s Survivor Council Alumni, she promotes genetic and biomarker testing to improve treatment outcomes and assess familial risk, appearing in public service campaigns to amplify her mission. In celebration of National Survivor Month this episode is dedicated to Survivor Kay Kays who was diagnosed in 1994

Nourishing Wellness: Eating Healthy on the Cancer Journey with Nutritional Therapy and Breathwork Facilitator Andrea O'Donnell