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Episode 58: The Aftermath of Cancer: Early Menopause, and Starting Over with Dr. Laura Currens

In this raw and deeply personal episode, Dr. Mary sits down with fellow physical therapist and breast cancer survivor Dr. Laura Currens to talk about what really happens after cancer — especially when you're young.

Together, they unpack the overlooked realities of survivorship: the sudden dive into early perimenopause, unexpected relationship changes (from divorce to deeper connection), and the mental, physical, and emotional whiplash of being told you’re “done” with treatment… when your healing has only just begun.

You will learn:

• How to support a loved one going through cancer (and what not to say)
• What early perimenopause can look like after chemo — and why most doctors miss it
• The impact of cancer on identity, sexuality, and relationships
• How grief shows up after survival
• Why pelvic and orthopedic physical therapy can play a huge role in post-cancer recovery and perimenopause
• Alternatives and complements to hormone therapy
• How to rebuild a meaningful life when you no longer recognize yourself
• The hidden gifts and clarity that can emerge from facing mortality too young

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

00:31 Cancer Journeys: Personal Stories

01:11 Navigating Relationships During Cancer

01:34 Life After Cancer Treatment

01:46 Early Perimenopause and Physical Therapy

03:16 The Importance of Advocacy and Early Detection

06:12 Support Systems and Mental Health

20:59 Cold Caps and Chemo Experiences

28:47 Relationship Challenges and Support

37:12 Navigating Life Post-Cancer Treatment

38:14 The Pain of Cancer Treatments

39:08 The Role of Medical Marijuana

39:39 Coping with COVID and Cancer

40:11 The Emotional Toll of Cancer

40:43 The Blessing in Disguise

42:36 The Aftermath of Cancer

52:36 Facing Perimenopause After Chemo

57:46 Understanding Blood Sugar and Hormones

01:04:24 The Importance of Mental Health

01:11:43 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

You can find more about Dr. Laura and her clinic below:

instagram.com/drlauradpt

https://dynamicflowpt.com

Want support for perimenopause that goes beyond hormones?

Whether you (or your clients) are taking HRT but still having symptoms, not ready for it, or can’t tolerate it...there’s more we can do.

I’ll be sharing practical tools from a movement and rehab perspective, focusing on the nervous system, fascia, lymph, viscera, and musculoskeletal system.

If you want updates on workshops, resources, and strategies to support this phase of life more fully, would love you to join my email list.

Subscribe to my email list here

I’ll see you in 2 weeks!

PS:

If you are interested in being a guest on the show, please fill out the form here.