When Olivia Clarke was first diagnosed with cancer and began treatment, she looked for ways to keep her spirits up as the grueling treatments and symptoms became increasingly difficult.  Gradually, she noticed moments – in waiting rooms, treatment areas, with strangers – that, when looked at with a certain lens, could be seen as downright funny.  This inspired her to launch “Humor Beats Cancer,” and online community that encourages other cancer patients to share their own moments of levity to soften the blows of this terrible disease.  Olivia’s attitude of empathy, hope, and optimism is infectious and comes through loud and clear in this Blue Sky conversation. 

Chapters:

01:11 Meet Olivia Clarke
Olivia Clarke, founder of Humor Beats Cancer, shares her journey from journalism to creating a supportive community for cancer patients through humor and storytelling. 

02:11 Olivia’s Cancer Journey Begins 
Olivia recounts her unexpected breast cancer diagnosis in 2015 during a routine checkup, detailing the rapid progression of her treatment and the emotional toll it took. 

04:01 The Return of Cancer 
After a period of being cancer-free, Olivia faces a stage four metastatic breast cancer diagnosis, leading to ongoing treatments and a search for coping mechanisms. 

04:41 Finding Humor in Hardship 
Amidst her struggles, Olivia discovers that humor can be a powerful coping tool, leading her to create a platform for sharing funny cancer stories. 

06:03 The Birth of Humor Beats Cancer 
In 2017, Olivia officially launches Humor Beats Cancer, utilizing social media to connect with others and share light-hearted stories that resonate with cancer patients. 

07:21 The Impact of Humor 
Olivia discusses how humor helps patients cope with their experiences, fostering connections and reducing feelings of isolation through shared laughter. 

10:51 Creating Humorous Care Packages 
Olivia explains the concept of humorous care packages designed to uplift cancer patients, filled with funny items and treats that defy traditional expectations. 

12:59 The Power of Shared Stories 
Through shared experiences, Olivia highlights how humor can transform the cancer narrative, helping individuals feel less alone and more connected. 

17:01 Involvement of Caregivers 
Olivia discusses the importance of including caregivers in her community, recognizing their challenges and the humor that can arise from their experiences. 

18:49 Resilience and Optimism 
Olivia shares her personal strategies for staying positive amidst adversity, emphasizing the importance of a supportive network and a hopeful mindset. 

24:21 Workplace Support During Illness 
Olivia reflects on the role of her supportive workplace during her cancer journey, highlighting the importance of understanding employers in navigating treatment. 

29:02 The Four Fs of Support 
Olivia discusses the essential elements that helped her and Lee Woodruff navigate the challenges of cancer: friends, family, funny, and faith.  

31:05 Navigating Information Overload 
Olivia shares her approach to cancer research, highlighting the importance of trusting medical professionals over diving into overwhelming information.  

34:14 The Humor in Bad Advice 
The conversation shifts to the often ridiculous suggestions cancer patients receive, illustrating the awkwardness of well-meaning but misguided advice.  

36:52 Empathy in Illness: The Struggle to Connect 
Olivia discusses the challenges of communication during illness, including the tendency for people to share their own experiences instead of listening.  

39:05 Advice for New Patients 
Offering wisdom for those newly diagnosed, Olivia encourages them to document their questions and take things step by step.