Campfires of Hope: Stories of Cancer

Advancing Esophageal Cancer Early Detection and Outcomes

Epic Experience — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 12:06:00 +0000

April is Esophageal Cancer Awareness Month, and we’re joined around the campfire by Dr. Victoria Lee, Chief Medical Officer at Lucid Diagnostics, and Jeff Thomas, a 14-year survivor of Stage 3 esophageal cancer. Together, they bring both medical expertise and lived experience to the conversation.

In this episode, we break down what esophageal cancer is, the risk factors and early warning signs to watch for, and why it’s so often diagnosed too late. We also explore how Lucid Diagnostics is working to change that—empowering clinicians with tools to detect precancer before it develops into cancer, and improving outcomes through earlier intervention.

This is a powerful conversation about hope, innovation, and survivorship—highlighting how lived experience and medical expertise can come together to drive meaningful change in cancer care.

Live from the Hearts & Hope Gala (Part 3)

Epic Experience — Thu, 16 Apr 2026 11:40:00 +0000

In Part 3 of our livestream at the Hearts & Hope Gala, Sunshine welcomes Scott Dawson and Zach Zarnock to the campfire. Together, they share powerful caregiver perspectives on cancer survivorship, reflect on how their wives have embraced life beyond cancer, and open up about why they continue coming back to the Gala year after year.

Live from the Hearts & Hope Gala (Part 2)

Epic Experience — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 12:00:00 +0000

In Part 2 of our livestream from the Hearts & Hope Gala, Sunshine welcomes this year’s Louis Chinn “Stud” Volunteer Award recipient, Derrick Wiemer (aka Toy Box). As a local community member near 7W Ranch, Derrick shares his firsthand experiences empowering cancer thrivers at camp and why the Epic Experience community means so much to him.

Sunshine is then joined by Sarah Nuccio (aka Nooch), a breast cancer survivor who reflects on her long-standing connection with Epic and shares meaningful stories from her journey and the Gala.

Live from the Hearts & Hope Gala (Part 1)

Epic Experience — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 15:00:00 +0000

For the first time, we livestreamed our podcast directly from the Hearts & Hope Gala!

In Part 1, our host Gail Faye (“Sunshine”) sits down with Zach Bye, Denver sports radio host and gala emcee, to talk about why the event has such a powerful impact on him. Then Sunshine chats with Nancy Ferro, founder of Epic Experience, who shares stories and memories from the early gala days more than a decade ago. Tune in for inspiration, behind-the-scenes moments, and a celebration of the community that makes Epic so special.

Thriving Beyond Cholangiocarcinoma

Epic Experience — Wed, 18 Feb 2026 22:16:55 +0000

In honor of Cholangiocarcinoma Awareness Month, we welcome Leanne Barker and Christina Gambogi around the campfire to share their powerful journeys as cholangiocarcinoma survivors. They reflect on their diagnosis stories, treatment experiences, and the unique physical and emotional challenges that came with navigating a rare cancer. Leanne and Christina also discuss the importance of finding disease-specific support and how those connections ultimately led them to Epic Experience’s cholangio survivor camp. Together, they share what it meant to spend a week surrounded by people who truly understood their experience — and how community helped them move forward beyond cancer.

Cerviving Cervical Cancer

Epic Experience — Thu, 29 Jan 2026 21:03:49 +0000

January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, and Lori Downing joins us around the campfire to share her story as a cervical cancer survivor. Lori reflects on the physical, mental, and emotional challenges she faced throughout her cancer journey and offers insight from her perspective as a gynecologic cancer survivor. She speaks candidly about the unique realities of cervical cancer—including gaps in information and support around sexual health, as well as the stigma that continues to surround GYN cancers.

How to Cancer: How to Navigate Round Two

Epic Experience — Tue, 20 Jan 2026 13:00:00 +0000

On this episode of the How to Cancer series on the Campfires of Hope Podcast, metastatic melanoma survivor Mike Wilde joins us to talk about navigating a second cancer diagnosis. Mike shares how prioritizing self-care, supporting the people around him, and remembering the strength of his first positive outcome helped him face round two. He also offers powerful insight on letting go of certainty and learning to embrace the unknown as part of the journey.

When Cancer Hits Home – Thriving Beyond Cancer: Creating New Family Normals

Epic Experience — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 06:00:00 +0000

In this hopeful closing episode of Campfires of Hope’s “When Cancer Hits Home” series, Amanda Blackburn and Mical Roy reflect on how their families have navigated life after cancer and found ways to thrive. They share the changes in daily routines and family life that came with a cancer diagnosis, and how they worked together to create a new sense of normal.

Amanda and Mical discuss the vital role of community, friendships, and support systems in helping their families move forward, and highlight the lessons, growth, and new perspectives that emerged from their experiences. Looking ahead, they explore what thriving and living beyond cancer means for their families today and into the future. Their stories offer insight, inspiration, and practical hope for families seeking to reclaim joy and connection after cancer.

When Cancer Hits Home – Navigating Grief As a Family After Cancer Loss

Epic Experience — Tue, 09 Dec 2025 06:00:00 +0000

In this heartfelt episode of “When Cancer Hits Home”, we hear from Jeff and Francesca Hlavacek as they navigate life after the loss of their wife and mother, Erika, to lung cancer. Jeff, a colorectal cancer survivor himself, and Francesca share how their family coped with grief, supported each other, and learned to carry on while honoring Erika’s memory.

They reflect on the most challenging moments of loss and the ways grief touched each member of their family differently. Jeff discusses the balance of guiding his children through mourning while processing his own pain, and Francesca shares how she supported her siblings and her father during this difficult time.

Looking back, they explore the practices, perspectives, and memories that have helped them heal together and individually. Their story is a moving example of how families navigate grief, find strength in one another, and continue to celebrate the life of a loved one even after profound loss.

When Cancer Hits Home - Partnership and Parenting Through Cancer

Epic Experience — Tue, 25 Nov 2025 06:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Campfires of Hope: Stories of Cancer Survivorship, Kimber and Justin Harris share how Kimber’s cancer diagnosis reshaped their lives as partners and parents of three. They reflect on the shock of those first days, the challenges of navigating treatment while caring for a newborn and two young children, and the very different ways they each coped.

High school sweethearts together for more than 25 years, Kimber and Justin open up about what true partnership looked like through illness, how they supported one another in both practical and emotional ways, and how cancer continues to influence their marriage, parenting, and everyday approach to life.

How to Cancer: How to Survive with Cancer

Epic Experience — Tue, 18 Nov 2025 22:16:00 +0000

The How to Cancer Series is back on the Campfires of Hope Podcast! In this episode, melanoma survivor Janna Jones shares How to Survive With Cancer. She offers heartfelt advice on navigating survivorship, including reinventing play, embracing the present moment, and finding positivity in everyday life. Tune in to hear her personal strategies for thriving after cancer and making each day meaningful. www.epicexperience.org/how-to-cancer-series

When Cancer Hits Home – Thriving Together: Cancer Survivors in Love

Epic Experience — Tue, 11 Nov 2025 06:00:00 +0000

We welcome back former Campfires of Hope guests Michael and Amanda Ferro, both cancer survivors who found love through the Epic Experience community and are now happily married, to “When Cancer Hits Home.” They share their journey from meeting at an Epic event to dating as survivors, navigating the challenges and joys of building a relationship after cancer, and the lessons they’ve learned along the way.

As they prepare for their first baby, Michael and Amanda reflect on how surviving cancer has shaped their vision for parenthood, the way they approach life together, and the hope they carry into this next chapter. Their story is a heartfelt reminder that love and new beginnings are possible, even after life-changing experiences.

When Cancer Hits Home – My Parent Has Cancer

Epic Experience — Tue, 28 Oct 2025 06:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Campfires of Hope’s “When Cancer Hits Home” series, we hear from Patrick Brennan, Molly Agnew, and Eliza and Beckett Smith, all young people whose parents have faced cancer. They share candid reflections on what it’s really like to grow up with a parent undergoing treatment, including moments of bravery, the people and resources that made a difference, and the challenges of talking about cancer with friends who may not understand.

As Peer Leaders at Pickles Group, they also offer heartfelt advice for other kids navigating a parent’s diagnosis and highlight what they wish more people understood about their experiences. Their stories are a powerful reminder of the resilience, insight, and courage of young people facing the ripple effects of cancer at home.

When Cancer Hits Home – Navigating Cancer As Parent and Teen Child

Epic Experience — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 06:00:00 +0000

We sit down with Hazel & Ali Senz and Julia & Madeleine McGuire to explore the unique challenges and lessons that come when a parent faces cancer in this episode of Campfires of Hope’s “When Cancer Hits Home” series. Together, each mother-daughter duo reflects on what it was like to hear the diagnosis, how it reshaped family dynamics, and the different ways they each processed the experience at their stage of life. From parenting through uncertainty to growing closer through shared struggle, their honest conversation sheds light on both the hardships and the unexpected growth that cancer can bring.

When Cancer Hits Home – Therapists Talk: Supporting Families Facing Cancer

Epic Experience — Tue, 30 Sep 2025 06:00:00 +0000

In this episode of “When Cancer Hits Home”, our guests Kelsey Mora and Chris Balmaceda—mental health professionals who specialize in supporting both kids and adults in families impacted by cancer—share insights on the emotional and relational challenges families often face during a loved one’s cancer journey.

They offer practical communication strategies to help families process the experience, build trust, and create emotional safety. We also explore key signs that it may be time to seek outside support, and the therapeutic approaches Kelsey and Chris prioritize in their work. Finally, we take a closer look at where mental health care in the cancer space still needs to grow.

When Cancer Hits Home – Origin Stories

Epic Experience — Tue, 16 Sep 2025 06:00:00 +0000

In the first episode of our “When Cancer Hits Home” series, Nancy Ferro and Mark Agnew share powerful stories of how cancer impacted their families and how those experiences ultimately led to the founding of two remarkable organizations: Epic Experience and Pickles Group.

Nancy and Mark reflect on how a cancer diagnosis reshaped their relationships, family dynamics, and life paths. We explore the origin stories, missions, and impact of their organizations, each created to support families navigating cancer. As they look back on their personal and organizational journeys, Nancy and Mark offer meaningful takeaways for families facing cancer today—and hope for what comes after.

Breaking Barriers and Creating Change in Clinical Research

Epic Experience — Thu, 19 Jun 2025 12:04:00 +0000

Multiple myeloma survivor and patient advocate Valarie Traynham returns for part 2 to share her insights on what action can be taken to create change in clinical research inequities. Valarie dives into the critical need to raise awareness about disparities in access and representation. She offers actionable ideas for improving healthcare support, building trust, and empowering historically marginalized communities through education and inclusion.

Understanding Challenges and Root Causes of Inequities in Clinical Trials

Epic Experience — Thu, 19 Jun 2025 12:03:00 +0000

We’re joined by Valarie Traynham, a multiple myeloma survivor and passionate patient advocate, for the first of a two-part episode in a conversation on equity in healthcare and clinical research. Valarie explores the historical and systemic roots of medical mistrust and how they continue to impact clinical trial participation among racially diverse communities and people with disabilities. She sheds light on the misconceptions that discourage participation and offers thoughtful solutions for building trust and improving access to clinical trials.

Considering a Clinical Trial: When to Join and What to Expect

Epic Experience — Thu, 19 Jun 2025 12:02:00 +0000

In Part 2 of our conversation with Dr. Breelyn Wilky and Dr. Christopher Lieu from the University of Colorado Cancer Center, we dive deeper into the patient experience and the innovation behind clinical trials. They share guidance on when to consider a trial during your cancer journey, what a “day in the life” looks like for trial participants, and how trials differ from standard treatments like chemotherapy or radiation.

We also explore the unique role of investigator-initiated trials—what they are, how they differ from pharmaceutical-sponsored studies, and why they’re essential for advancing personalized cancer care.

Demystifying Clinical Trials: Insights from Leading Oncologists

Epic Experience — Thu, 19 Jun 2025 12:01:00 +0000

In the first of a two-part episode, we sit down with Dr. Breelyn Wilky and Dr. Christopher Lieu from the University of Colorado Cancer Center to explore the vital role of clinical trials in advancing cancer treatment. They break down common misconceptions around trial safety and effectiveness, and explain how participation can benefit both patients and the future of oncology. Whether you're considering a trial or just curious, their expert advice brings clarity and encouragement.

Tracking Cancer's Return: Clinical Trials Beyond Treatment

Epic Experience — Thu, 19 Jun 2025 12:00:00 +0000

Edie Harrison returns to Campfires of Hope to share her unique journey with clinical trials. Diagnosed as NED since 2022, Edie didn't need a trial for treatment purposes. Instead, she researched and sought out a “circulating tumor DNA” clinical trial—a cutting-edge approach to monitoring and detecting the return of her original cancer. Listen to Edie’s story to discover how clinical trials are transforming cancer care beyond treatment.

Clinical Trials and Cancer: A Survivor’s Path to Hope

Epic Experience — Thu, 05 Jun 2025 13:01:00 +0000

Diagnosed with leiomyosarcoma in 2015, Sarah Fay's journey to being NED nearly a decade later highlights the life-saving potential of clinical trials. In this Campfires of Hope: Stories of Cancer episode, Sarah shares an honest and inspiring account of her experience—from navigating complex logistics to managing the emotional challenges. Tune in to explore the transformative impact of clinical trials and her story of resilience.

Keepin’ It Real: Navigating Clinical Trials and Facing Recurrence

Epic Experience — Thu, 05 Jun 2025 13:00:00 +0000

Multiple cancer survivor Lana Boes returns to Campfires of Hope to share a detailed account of her journey through clinical trials and inspire others to take charge of their health. Lana opens up about the mental and emotional challenges of facing a recurrence in May, after five years of being NED (No Evidence of Disease), and how the strength of her community helped her rediscover her light.

Cancer and Compassion Fatigue: Giving Yourself Permission to Step Back

Epic Experience — Fri, 09 May 2025 16:43:00 +0000

In this episode of Campfires of Hope, cancer survivors Janna Jones and Eileen VanCleave open up about the deeply human experience of compassion fatigue. We explore what it is, why acknowledging it matters, and how it affects survivors, caregivers, and those in helping roles. Janna and Eileen offer heartfelt insights on self-care, forgiveness, and the power of sharing the load. This candid conversation is a powerful reminder that stepping back is not a weakness—it’s a sometimes necessary act of strength.

Learn more about how Epic Experience empowers cancer survivors to live beyond cancer at www.epicexperience.org

Meet New Epic Experience Staff Member, Denny “Stretch” Williams

Epic Experience — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 21:16:20 +0000

Denny hails from Louisville, KY, and was diagnosed with esophageal cancer in January 2022. Following treatment and surgery, he is now living life beyond cancer. Denny attended Epic Experience in March 2023, and it became a turning point — inspiring him to pay it forward by becoming a camp volunteer and supporting fellow survivors on their own journeys. A passionate advocate for the mental health side of cancer survivorship, Denny openly shares his story to bring hope and healing to others facing similar battles. Denny is married and the proud father of two boys. A former college baseball player at the University of Louisville, he stands 6’8” tall — hence the nickname “Stretch.” He’s a loyal fan of the Cincinnati Reds and all things UofL athletics. We’re thrilled to welcome Denny as our Director of Programs and Alumni Engagement at Epic Experience!

Living Beyond Cancer: Finding Purpose in Survivorship

Epic Experience — Mon, 07 Apr 2025 23:37:53 +0000

Mark Hanson is a multiple myeloma survivor whose journey is one of resilience, struggle, and ultimately, renewal. While he was deeply grateful for the unwavering support of his family and medical team during treatment, the true challenge came afterward—adjusting back to “real life.” Like many men, Mark suffered in silence, feeling like "damaged goods" until his wife helped him recognize he was battling depression. Determined to not let cancer define his entire story, he sought support and discovered healing through Epic Experience’s adventure camp.

Now, Mark is sharing his story to inspire and uplift others, offering a message of hope to those facing the emotional and mental challenges of cancer survivorship—especially men who may feel alone in their struggles. His journey is proof that life beyond cancer is not just possible, but meaningful.

Learn more about how Epic Experience empowers cancer survivors to live beyond cancer at www.epicexperience.org

Cancer and the Path to Self-Love and Acceptance

Epic Experience — Thu, 27 Feb 2025 19:26:58 +0000

Despite experiencing trauma as a teenager and young adult, and being diagnosed with ovarian and uterine cancer in 2016—followed by breast cancer seven years later—Christen Clifford found her path to self-love and acceptance. During a time when she felt she had lost so much, she later realized that cancer had given her the gift of finding herself. She shares her transformational journey with us in this compelling episode of Campfires of Hope: Stories of Cancer.

Learn more about how Epic Experience empowers cancer survivors to live beyond cancer at www.epicexperience.org

Finding Clarity After Decades of YA Cancer Survivorship

Epic Experience — Thu, 30 Jan 2025 22:08:39 +0000

At just 11 years old, Eric Goss was diagnosed with stage 3A Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, a battle that shaped his life for decades. Unable to cope effectively with the long-term psychological effects of survivorship, Eric proactively sought out answers until he discovered a unique study in 2021 that finally brought him clarity and healing. In this compelling episode of Campfires of Hope: Stories of Cancer, Eric shares his powerful journey through cancer and the transformative new perspective he’s gained.

Learn more about how Epic Experience empowers cancer survivors to live beyond cancer at www.epicexperience.org

Adventure Therapy for Cancer Survivors

Epic Experience — Wed, 13 Nov 2024 19:38:53 +0000

Just 35 years old, Lauren Huffmaster was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer, which subsequently progressed to stage 4. After what she describes as a period of despair, Lauren realized that she needed to do something to address the emotional and mental side effects that cancer had caused her.

“I will not live to die. I’ve got to start living to live and have a greater impact.” As a result, Lauren founded a non-profit organization called Adventure Therapy Foundation, whose mission is to minimize the emotional side effects of cancer, not just for the individual but for the whole family. Lauren tells us about the healing impact of adventure and the parallels it strikes with the cancer journey: “in adventure, we keep going because we expect something great in the end. We have to go through a lot of hard things to get there.”

Learn more about how Epic Experience empowers cancer survivors to live beyond cancer at www.epicexperience.org

Embracing Silver Linings Together Through Cancer

Epic Experience — Wed, 02 Oct 2024 19:02:26 +0000

When Jordan Vanzandt was diagnosed with stage 4 neuroendocrine cancer, life changed for her and her husband, Mike. Despite the innumerable challenges and obstacles they faced, they focused on the silver linings that surviving cancer provided for their family. In addition to learning to slow down, go with the flow, and enjoy the little things, they discovered they could find the positives in any situation—like treating road trips to appointments as date opportunities.

Jordan and Mike open up about the strength of their bond and the importance of an optimistic outlook on life. Their advice is to “try to make light of what you can. Find silver linings. You can find them, they’re there.

Keepin’ It Real: Feeling Alone in My Cancer Journey

Epic Experience — Tue, 10 Sep 2024 19:27:21 +0000

Bill Wardwell was diagnosed with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) in 1998. Over the next decade, he endured chemotherapy, a bone marrow transplant, multiple recurrences, and several personal setbacks. In this piece, Bill shares the most difficult part of his journey: the feeling of facing cancer alone. He opens up about his darkest, most challenging moments and how he eventually found strength, support, and community.

Learn more about how Epic Experience empowers cancer survivors to live beyond cancer at www.epicexperience.org

Closer Than Ever: Our Cancer Journey

Epic Experience — Tue, 13 Aug 2024 06:00:00 +0000

When Scott Riebel was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2021, he and his wife Vickie had no idea how much closer the cancer journey would bring them. As Scott states, “You get a full grasp for how much you love and are loved by someone when you experience something like cancer.” In this episode, Scott and Vickie share the experiences they endured both together and individually as they navigated their way through Scott’s cancer battle. Vickie's advice to caregivers: “You have to take care of yourself too. Give yourself some grace. I’m important in this too and I need to be healthy physically, mentally, and emotionally.”

Keepin’ It Real: Being Transparent With My Kids About My Cancer

Epic Experience — Tue, 06 Aug 2024 06:00:00 +0000

Caroline Thomas is a bladder cancer survivor and a mother of two adult sons. She shares the importance of being honest and transparent with her children about her cancer and how she kept the lines of communication open. Caroline says telling her sons was very difficult because “my role as a parent is to protect my kids and there was nothing I could do to protect them from this.” Despite how terrifying it was to share her diagnosis, Caroline is grateful she did.

Caring For Cancer: Leaving a Legacy

Epic Experience — Tue, 30 Jul 2024 06:00:00 +0000

Kerry Glass is the founder of Memories Live, a nonprofit that creates legacy movies for individuals with life-limiting illnesses. In this episode, Kerry discusses the process and benefits of building a 45-minute video so children, grandchildren, and others have something to remember their loved one by. From her experiences working with the cancer community, Kerry has learned that “survivors have an inner strength they never knew they had.”

How I Found Light in the Darkness of Cancer

Epic Experience — Tue, 23 Jul 2024 06:00:00 +0000

Ted Roggenkamp is a throat cancer survivor who embodies the meaning of thriving. After going through surgery, chemotherapy, and 33 rounds of radiation, Ted could have let cancer take the joy out of life. Instead, he made the decision to show up with others by being ultra-positive, energetic, social, and present in the moment. Despite the darkness of cancer, Ted found the light by bringing his full self and “being a source of positivity for others.”

Keepin’ It Real: Fear and Cancer

Epic Experience — Tue, 16 Jul 2024 06:00:00 +0000

Cindy “Smokey” Polinsky and Leonard “Fox” Geraci share a unique bond as lymphoma survivors who have gone through the same cancer treatment. In the world of cancer, “fear of the unknown and what’s to come’ can significantly impact survivors in their daily lives. In this episode of Keepin’ It Real, Smokey and Fox open up about fear and how past traumas can play a role.

Rebuilding My Strength as a Cancer Survivor

Epic Experience — Tue, 09 Jul 2024 06:00:00 +0000

Janna Jones was diagnosed with IIB melanoma in 2022. She completed immunotherapy and surgery but still found herself struggling in some aspects of her daily life. She battled fatigue, photosensitivity to the sun, and constant stomach aches. Despite having a great support system, Janna found it tough to connect on a cancer level because these individuals weren’t survivors, which made her feel alone.

“I knew I needed help, so I had to go out and get it,” Janna says. She shares how she discovered incredible groups, classes, and communities to rebuild her physical and mental strength after cancer.

Dear Cancer

Epic Experience — Tue, 02 Jul 2024 06:00:00 +0000

Lisa Isom was diagnosed with multiple myeloma in 2010 and had her first recurrence a year later. After eight years with no evidence of disease, her cancer returned again in 2019. On this episode of Campfires of Hope, Lisa shares a heartfelt, personal letter that she wrote titled, Dear Cancer, wherein she describes her cancer journey and the effects it’s had on her life.

Keepin' It Real: Coping with Cancer Recurrence

Epic Experience — Tue, 25 Jun 2024 06:00:00 +0000

Cam Kiosoglous, a four-time U.S. Olympic rowing coach, is no stranger to embracing challenges. However, when he was diagnosed with testicular cancer in 2010, followed by two thyroid cancer diagnoses the year after, his resolve was truly tested. After making it through and having no evidence of disease for nearly a decade, Cam faced his toughest challenge – learning his cancer had returned.

Cam keeps it real with us as he opens up about the hardest aspects of coping with a cancer recurrence and how he used techniques from his coaching experiences and support from his community to manage his mental health during the most difficult times.

Travel, Adventure, and Cancer (Radio Interview)

Epic Experience — Tue, 20 Feb 2024 18:46:43 +0000

Epic Experience director Colin Ferro was a special guest on Travel...Adventure...Wellness on WTBQ Radio to discuss how travel and adventure can benefit cancer patients/survivors physically and emotionally.

Learn more about how Epic Experience empowers cancer survivors to live beyond cancer at www.epicexperience.org

Experiencing Cancer as a Healthcare Professional

Epic Experience — Fri, 02 Feb 2024 21:10:33 +0000

When Sara Marian Lucking was diagnosed with inflammatory breast cancer in 2022, she was on maternity leave from her career as a dermatologist. She shares that being a healthcare professional going through cancer had its pros and cons. While her background knowledge helped her get to a diagnosis faster, it was scary to know so much about the uphill battle she would face with her specific diagnosis and the side effects of her treatments—knowledge she told herself to “unlearn.”

As a doctor, she was very familiar with the burnout that many healthcare professionals experience as a result of not putting themselves first. After going through cancer treatment, Sara Marian says that changed. "I'm now prioritizing my health and being present for my family. I’m taking all the information I learned and trying to help other people.”

Learn more about how Epic Experience empowers cancer survivors to live beyond cancer at www.epicexperience.org

Keepin' It Real: Embracing New Challenges as a Cancer Survivor

Epic Experience — Tue, 16 Jan 2024 22:12:09 +0000

Brad Glassel, a stage three prostate cancer survivor, returns to the Campfires of Hope podcast for an episode of Keepin’ It Real. He discusses life following completion of cancer treatment and the difficulty of figuring out how to move on. After attending supportive communities like Epic Experience and local story slams, he discovered the importance of moving forward by embracing new challenges. Brad explains that while challenges may seem daunting at first, they can be overcome by taking small steps. He used that mentality to compile a series of short stories about his life into a book he recently published titled Those Days.

Learn more about how Epic Experience empowers cancer survivors to live beyond cancer at www.epicexperience.org

Keepin' It Real: Thriving with Stage 4 Cancer

Epic Experience — Mon, 08 Jan 2024 23:13:50 +0000

In the inaugural Keepin’ It Real episode on the Campfires of Hope podcast, we dig deeper into the mental and emotional side of a cancer diagnosis with Dana Shelton Lee, who is living with stage 4 colon cancer.

Dana discusses the impact that multiple recurrences, surgeries, and over 40 rounds of chemotherapy has had on her psyche. She keeps it real by sharing her rock-bottom moments and how she finds strength in self-care, living with intention, and helping others. Dana’s advice is to “find your tribe and learn to live a meaningful life with cancer,” and hopes her story will inspire others to thrive.

Learn more about how Epic Experience empowers cancer survivors to live beyond cancer at www.epicexperience.org

Dancing with Cancer: Remaining Present in the Moment

Epic Experience — Wed, 06 Dec 2023 19:18:17 +0000

Nils Palsson is a father, author, educator, and testicular cancer survivor. Nils was diagnosed in 2021 and by 2023 was declared to have no evidence of disease. He describes his cancer journey as dance, not a battle. Fittingly, the memoir he is currently writing is titled Cancer Dancer.

For Nils, the hardest part about cancer survivorship was thinking about the “what if…” part of his future, something he calls “future tripping.” He’s saved from these thoughts by his daughter’s requests to go play, where he is reminded to be present in the moment. Nils gives us his own reminder to be alive, compassionate, and aware of the preciousness of life, and to “do it right now!”

Learn more about how Epic Experience empowers cancer survivors to live beyond cancer at www.epicexperience.org

Navigating Second Opinions with Cancer

Epic Experience — Thu, 16 Nov 2023 21:14:04 +0000

Stephanie Luning was just 24 years old when she was diagnosed with brain cancer in 2005. Following surgery and treatment, she was in the clear for six years. Then, in 2011, her doctor noticed a suspicious spot on her regular scan. Stephanie details how she navigated getting several second opinions, all of which provided different options. With so much information to process and a very important decision to make, Stephanie relied on her own intuition, research, and trust in her doctors. After deliberating, she opted not to pursue treatment, which she learned was the correct decision when a subsequent scan revealed the spot was gone.

Stephanie advises getting a second, and sometimes third, opinion when considering a cancer diagnosis and treatment. “The first time you go through it, you go with your doctors because you assume they are telling you the best. But it’s always helpful to get someone else’s view on it to make sure they are on the same track, or if there’s something new. The more information the better.”

Learn more about how Epic Experience empowers cancer survivors to live beyond cancer at www.epicexperience.org

Cancer Taught Me How to Accept Help

Epic Experience — Fri, 03 Nov 2023 16:02:16 +0000

Manny De La Cruz was diagnosed with testicular cancer in January 2022. After several surgeries and four rounds of chemotherapy, he showed no evidence of disease in March 2023.

Manny describes his cancer journey as “riding a wave”: every time something good happened, it was shortly followed by something bad. Through this wave-riding, Manny has gotten better at asking for help and leaning on others. “I had no idea how much I needed other people. But I had no choice, so I allowed myself to open up to others, which was probably one of the most difficult things to do.”

In September 2023, Manny had the opportunity to join 10 other TC survivors at an Epic Experience camp. Before that week, he had never met so many other TC survivors and was surprised at how quickly he connected with a group of men who truly understood what he had experienced. Manny intends to keep riding his wave and continue supporting his community through survivorship.

Learn more about how Epic Experience empowers cancer survivors to live beyond cancer at www.epicexperience.org

Majestic Moments in the Messy Middle of Cancer

Epic Experience — Wed, 25 Oct 2023 16:41:39 +0000

Gretchen Simpson was shocked when she was diagnosed with stage 2 triple positive breast cancer in early 2021. She ate healthy, exercised regularly, and had no family history of cancer. She was subsequently surprised by how much love and support she received from her friends and community throughout her cancer journey. Friends picked her up at 5 a.m. for the two-hour drive for treatment and doctor’s appointments, spent the day with her, cooked her meals, and supported her in the form of visits, texts, and cards.

In the summer of 2022, Gretchen attended summer camp with Epic Experience and had a transformative moment in her life. She had been having doubts about her ability to participate in an activity, when she had a conversation that taught her that “it’s okay to try and fail.” That mindset changed her week and helped her embrace every activity. She also took that mindset home: “the permission to fail allows me to try new things. That opened up my life, my world, when I came back.”

Gretchen shared these words of wisdom for cancer survivors: “Cancer is life-changing but be open to the transformative process. There’s still much joy along the way. You heard about some of my hardships but there are so many majestic moments that happen with loved ones in the messy middle of cancer. You may have to find them, but they are there."

Learn more about how Epic Experience empowers cancer survivors to live beyond cancer at www.epicexperience.org

Rebuilding My Social Circle After Cancer

Epic Experience — Tue, 10 Oct 2023 18:21:40 +0000

Lena Rutherford was just 24 years old when she was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma, in the prime of her social life. After receiving the news, she left Chicago with a moment’s notice and headed back home to her family in Colorado, leaving behind her apartment and friends. There, she started six months of chemotherapy. During that time, she often felt lonely and isolated, partly because she was stuck in the house dealing with side effects and partly because she didn't have many friends in Colorado.

With the help of her family, Lena found ways to rebuild her social life during this time. Together, they put together a Team Lena email newsletter, created a blog site to share updates and express herself, and circulated T-shirts for loved ones to wear in support. Lena connected with friends through Facetime hangouts, participated in sports and recreational activities once healthy, and spent quality time at home with her pets. Perhaps most significantly, she became closer with her family and shared more emotions and experiences with them than ever before.

“When you go through something like cancer, you realize the small things are the big things. For me, knowing that people just cared about me and how I was doing made a huge difference. It can be isolating going through something that so few people have experienced themselves.”

Learn more about how Epic Experience empowers cancer survivors to live beyond cancer at www.epicexperience.org

Pushing Forward Through Cancer

Epic Experience — Thu, 21 Sep 2023 22:49:18 +0000

Emma Reese was two weeks from her 28th birthday when she was diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma in 2016. She had just been married the year prior and her daughter was six months old.

At first, she was numb to the news, but she pushed through and went into “go mode” because she had treatment to start and a baby to care for. After completing chemo and beating cancer for five years, Emma had a recurrence in 2021. Fortunately, she fought through it and has been in remission since 2022.

The biggest challenge for Emma has been post-treatment survivorship, particularly the feelings of anxiety and of having no control over cancer. She started joining support groups and eventually found Epic Experience, whose mission is to empower survivors to live beyond cancer through outdoor adventure. She attended their weeklong camp in the Rocky Mountains this past summer where she learned that “Life can be unfair. You can let it keep you down or you can learn from it. This is out of my control, so I put one foot in front of the other and just kept pushing forward. You can do hard things. Reach out, you are not alone. There are people that love and support you that you don’t even know yet.”

Learn more about how Epic Experience empowers cancer survivors to live beyond cancer at www.epicexperience.org

Getting My Life Back From Cancer

Epic Experience — Wed, 30 Aug 2023 18:49:41 +0000

Lana Boes, a.k.a Donut, was diagnosed with cervical cancer in 2007 and beat it. After six years of being cancer-free, however, she was diagnosed with colon cancer. As chemotherapy treatment eventually stopped being effective, Lana began to lose hope--until she qualified for a clinical trial and miraculously went into complete remission.

Despite having no evidence of disease, Lana didn't feel like the person she was before cancer. She decided it was time to get her life back. She sought counseling, found support groups, and attended an adventure camp with Epic Experience. She found validation in her feelings and comfort in being able to speak with people who understood being diagnosed with cancer. She learned to give herself grace, take care of herself first, and become more spontaneous.

Lana’s advice on the first steps to getting your life back: “It’s ok to show your emotion and not be afraid to get the help you need. If it helps you, that’s what matters.”

Learn more about how Epic Experience empowers cancer survivors to live beyond cancer at www.epicexperience.org

Cancer and Fertility Challenges

Epic Experience — Mon, 07 Aug 2023 17:18:38 +0000

When Mike Scherer was 26, he was diagnosed with testicular cancer. After beating cancer, Mike and his wife, Megan, hoped to start their family. They went through infertility treatments during what became a difficult, isolating, and emotional journey. After two and a half years, they were happy to learn they’d be having a son!

The Scherers’ experience led them to found Worth the Wait, a nonprofit that assists cancer survivors facing fertility challenges and the expenses that come with them. Since 2021, they have provided financial support to over 40 survivors, enabling them to become parents. They detail some of their success stories and give guidance on navigating the fertility process both logistically and personally.

Mike and Megan have this advice for survivors facing fertility challenges: “It feels isolating but you’re not alone. It’s helpful when you’re ready to talk about it with other folks that have been through something similar. There is amazing power in community. Reach out, don’t do it alone.”

Learn more about how Epic Experience empowers cancer survivors to live beyond cancer at www.epicexperience.org

I Want Someone to Learn Why I Survived Cancer

Epic Experience — Wed, 12 Jul 2023 19:17:26 +0000

Ronald Bye, a.k.a. Big Hoss, was 20 years old when he discovered that what he thought was a hernia was actually testicular cancer. Being that it was the 1970s, diseases with a “sexual” connotation weren’t openly discussed, particularly by a young male. As a result, Ron didn’t tell anyone other than his family and boss about his cancer. He kept this secret for 30 years and shut down all emotion. He finally broke his silence on his 50th birthday and discovered how healing and powerful it was to finally talk about his diagnosis.

When he went through his cancer journey, Ron found there were often no answers to his questions due to a lack of research. As a result, in early 2023, he decided to donate his body to science upon his passing. He hopes to provide insight by allowing researchers to learn from his long-term cancer survivorship.

In Ron’s words, “The more you share, the more you will gain.”

Learn more about how Epic Experience empowers cancer survivors to live beyond cancer at www.epicexperience.org

Exercising Through Cancer Treatment

Epic Experience — Thu, 29 Jun 2023 20:37:29 +0000

Nicole Gleason and Jared Scorsone are both part of the training team at BFitBWell, a cancer exercise program offered by the University of Colorado Cancer Center. They detail how the program works and how it improves strength, stamina, and quality of life for cancer patients during and shortly after treatment. In addition, they describe the mental and emotional benefits that exercise can have, including having a sense of control over one’s own health.

When asked where someone newer to exercise should start, Nicole and Jared advise, “Start small. Something is better than nothing, even if it’s just walking for a couple of minutes. Find something you enjoy. Consistency is key.”

Learn more about the BFitBWell program:

https://medschool.cuanschutz.edu/colorado-cancer-center/for-patients-families/supportive-care/bfitbwell-cancer-exercise-program

Epic Experience offers free access to virtual Low Impact Training to the cancer community:

www.epicexperience.org/exercise-programs

How I Managed My Health During and After Cancer Treatment

Epic Experience — Fri, 23 Jun 2023 21:22:20 +0000

When Dr. Amy Rothenberg, a breast and #ovariancancer survivor, finished #chemotherapy in 2015, she pledged to do a sprint triathlon with her entire family just six months later. To this day, she still completes at least one each year. She focuses on regular exercise, eating an anti-inflammatory diet, working on her “head game," and being outdoors, enjoying nature as much as possible.

Her advice to a #cancersurvivor trying to incorporate such approaches into their lifestyle: “Change is possible and even small incremental changes matter. You don’t have to go and make 100 percent transition related to diet, exercise, or taking supplements. You can go little bit by little bit. Even small changes can offer positive results."

Available where you listen to podcasts.

Young Adult Cancer Taught Me Life's True Potential

Epic Experience — Thu, 01 Jun 2023 15:21:36 +0000

Asa Newell was diagnosed with testicular cancer in 2020 when he was 17 years old. In response, he thought, “I can either curl up in a corner or I can be the most positive person I can be.” He chose the latter.

Asa details the challenges of being in high school as a young adult cancer survivor, primarily how others his age didn’t always know how to react when they found out about his cancer. Staying true to his mantra of being positive, Asa now sees how being diagnosed so young helped him grow up faster than most since he had to grapple with questions like "Are you okay with dying?"--something kids his age typically don’t think about.

In 2022, Asa found Epic Experience through the Testicular Cancer Society. After meeting other TC survivors with successful lives and stories of perseverance, Asa understood the true potential of living beyond cancer. He left camp with the realization that “to be the person you want to become, you have to say yes to every opportunity that comes your way.”

Asa’s advice to cancer survivors is “No matter how hard it gets, never give up. Get up out of bed and take your first steps of the day. Those are the most important steps of the day. Don’t be afraid to fail in anything. That’s your first step towards success everyday.”

A Mom's Story: Caregiving for My Son with Cancer

Epic Experience — Mon, 22 May 2023 22:36:03 +0000

Nancy Ferro, a.k.a. Mama Lou, founded Epic Experience after her son Michael was diagnosed with testicular cancer. She joins the Campfires of Hope podcast to share her experience as a caregiver and mother of a adult child with cancer. Mama Lou details how she coped and provided support despite being told by Michael, “I have cancer and we’re not going to cry about it.” Cancer affects the entire family, and Mama Lou describes how each family member handled the experience and the sacrifices they made to support one another.

Mama Lou’s advice to other caregivers is to “be present as best you can.”

Cancer and Isolation

Epic Experience — Wed, 03 May 2023 14:57:29 +0000

Missy Burgess was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2020, during the height of the COVID pandemic. As a result, she spent many months physically isolated from others and had to get creative about finding support in her medical team, online cancer survivorship meetups like Epic Experience’s Campfire Chats, and Facetiming with her friends. Missy details how she was able to take advantage of her extra independent time to keep a positive mindset despite dealing with a cancer diagnosis during a time of isolation.

Saved by an At-Home Screen

Epic Experience — Fri, 07 Apr 2023 14:32:42 +0000

Just as Edie “Blaze” Harrison was feeling as fit and healthy as ever, she tested positive on her Cologuard at-home colorectal cancer screening. In March of 2021, she was diagnosed with rectal cancer. Blaze went through chemo, radiation, and surgery before she was declared NED in January 2022.

Despite a clean bill of health and a positive outlook on life, she was still new to the process of being a survivor. After finding Epic Experience via a Google search, she attended a regional meetup in Pennsylvania. A year later, she attended Epic’s weeklong winter camp in the Rocky Mountains. It was there that she truly found community, understanding, and validation among other cancer survivors. She also rediscovered her physical strength, after being unsure if she could keep up with the demands of camp activities like snowshoeing.

Asked what advice she would give to others, Blaze emphatically says, “Get your scopes, people! Screens are a bother but not as bad as going through cancer treatment. Catch it early!”

The Home Stretch

Epic Experience — Tue, 28 Mar 2023 17:09:49 +0000

At first, Denny “Stretch” Williams chalked up his abdomen pain to a muscle strain. But the pain worsened over the next few months, and in January of 2022, Stretch was diagnosed with esophageal cancer. Though difficult, Stretch and his wife were up front with their two teenagers and kept them in the loop each step of the way.

After five rounds of chemo and 28 radiation treatments, Stretch was declared NED, no evidence of disease, in the summer of 2022. Despite being free of cancer, however, his survivorship was just beginning. Scanxiety, survivor’s guilt, and even anger filled his thoughts. In March 2023, Stretch attended an Epic Experience winter camp and learned to take things less seriously, be free, and “just show up and live.” His advice, especially to male cancer survivors, is that it’s okay to reach out for help and to prioritize your mental health during the cancer journey.

A Hero Emerges from the Shadows

Epic Experience — Mon, 20 Feb 2023 18:39:42 +0000

Mike Craycraft is a testicular cancer survivor and founder of the Testicular Cancer Society. In 2006, Mike felt a lump and knew it was cancer. He decided not to go to the doctor or tell anyone about it, and instead opted to live like he was dying. He even went so far as to throw his own “going away” party.

After living with cancer in the shadows for seven months, he finally went to the doctor where his cancer was confirmed. Once diagnosed, treated, and put on active surveillance, Mike flipped a switch and decided to embrace his cancer publicly. When he discovered a lack of support groups available for testicular, young adult, and adolescent cancer survivors, he took action and founded the Testicular Cancer Society in 2008. Through Mike’s efforts at his nonprofit, TC survivors now have quality access to education, care, and support.

In 2022, Mike was the driving force behind organizing Epic Experience’s first ever TC camp. For all that he’s done for TC survivors and the larger cancer community, Mike has been selected by Epic Experience as the recipient of the 2023 Epic Hero Award.

My Journey as a Caregiver

Epic Experience — Fri, 27 Jan 2023 16:38:58 +0000

In 2010, Lee Walinchus took on a new role in addition to husband and father. After his wife, Mary, was diagnosed with cancer and started an intense chemotherapy regimen, Lee became chief caregiver to his wife and their three young daughters. The family was blessed with a helpful community, and Lee also took charge of coordinating the support efforts. To automate communications with others and process his own emotions, Lee started a blog that was both informative and humorous. His advice to caregivers is to take time for yourself, have a social outlet, and find a way to maintain some normalcy.

Fight for Yourself and What’s Right

Epic Experience — Wed, 11 Jan 2023 21:11:04 +0000

On this episode of Campfires of Hope: Living Beyond Cancer, we sit down with Jackie Wesley, the founder and executive director of Fighting Together to Save Lives. Jackie is a uterine and breast cancer survivor who was first diagnosed in 2003.

Jackie’s cancer journey inspired her to become a cancer advocate, especially to the African-American community. She discusses the challenges of providing equitable care and the importance of coming together to provide education and support to all communities. Jackie’s mission is to share her story, teach other survivors how to fight, and encourage people to get tested for cancer early and often.

Self-Serving Through Cancer

Epic Experience — Fri, 30 Dec 2022 19:24:39 +0000

Megan Clifford, a.k.a. Disney, was diagnosed with stage 4 Hodgkin's lymphoma when she was just 11 years old. Being diagnosed at such a young age, she often struggled to relate to her peers, find social support, and develop her own identity and voice.

Once she reached her 20s, Disney took it upon herself to seek out support and found Epic Experience. At camp, she realized that she needed a community that understood what she had endured in her childhood years. Cancer has now been a part of her life for over 20 years, and Disney has taken those personal experiences and transformed them into a career in the oncology industry.

Yes I Can

Epic Experience — Tue, 06 Dec 2022 20:04:36 +0000

Jessica Stapleton, a.k.a. “Tree Hugger,” is a Hodgkin’s lymphoma survivor who attended an Epic Experience weeklong camp this past summer. Before camp, Tree Hugger thought she was doing just fine with her cancer journey. Through her week of trying new activities and connecting with other survivors, however, she realized she hadn't truly processed her cancer experience. Tree Hugger came home with a new "Yes I can!" attitude that she's carried into her everyday life.

It wasn’t until her newfound mentality of “Yes I can” did she learn how amazing it felt to live life to the fullest, connect emotionally with others, and truly process her cancer survivorship.

Giving Tuesday Roundtable w/ the Epic Experience Staff

Epic Experience — Tue, 29 Nov 2022 21:39:28 +0000

In honor of Giving Tuesday, the Epic Experience staff came together for a live roundtable chat to discuss their experiences working for the organization. Nancy, Mark, Colin, and Chris share their favorite mission moments, what they're looking forward to in 2023, and how donations support Epic Experience's mission to empower the cancer community.

How to Cancer: How to Understand Your Legal Rights with Cancer

Epic Experience — Thu, 10 Nov 2022 21:15:51 +0000

On this episode of How to Cancer, Joanna Morales discusses how to understand your legal rights when facing cancer. Joanna is a cancer rights attorney and also the CEO of Triage Cancer.

Finding Community

Epic Experience — Tue, 25 Oct 2022 18:41:35 +0000

Brad Glassel, a.k.a. B-Rad, is a prostate cancer survivor and Epic Experience camp alumni. On this episode of Campfires of Hope: Living Beyond Cancer, Brad highlights the importance of finding community during the cancer journey. Brad shares his initial challenges with his cancer diagnosis and how reaching out and connecting with other cancer survivors empowered him to thrive in the cancer community.

Lemons to Lemonade

Epic Experience — Tue, 11 Oct 2022 14:47:12 +0000

Nate Krugman, a.k.a. Lemon, is a testicular cancer survivor who attended a weeklong summer camp with Epic Experience. Ever the optimist, he shares his story about taking life by the horns and finding positives in otherwise negative situations. In his own journey, Nate found healing by fundraising to help cancer survivors with their medical bills and by inspiring others during his bike ride across the country.

How to Cancer: How to Tell a Family or Friend You Have Cancer

Epic Experience — Fri, 16 Sep 2022 01:17:50 +0000

One of the hardest parts of the cancer journey is telling loved ones about your diagnosis. On this episode of How to Cancer, psychotherapist and cancer counselor Melanie Stachelski discusses how to tell your family and friends that you have cancer.

My Patient Journey

Epic Experience — Mon, 22 Aug 2022 21:47:45 +0000

Colon cancer survivor Jason "The Canadian" Abramovitch shares how he discovered he had cancer, how he handled his diagnosis, and his path to recovery through surgery and treatment. Two years after his diagnosis, Jason attended an Epic Experience camp and found confirmation of what he's supposed to be doing now: bringing hope to others diagnosed with cancer.

How to Cancer: What Scans to Expect When Diagnosed with Cancer

Epic Experience — Tue, 05 Jul 2022 16:01:05 +0000

On this episode of How to Cancer, Matt Stinson, a Radiation Oncology Physicians Assistant at the Calaway Young Cancer Center, talks about possible scans to expect with cancer. Matt discusses 5 common imaging modalities, what they are, and what they’re used for.

How to Cancer: How to Celebrate Cancer Milestones

Epic Experience — Wed, 08 Jun 2022 16:37:52 +0000

Part of living beyond cancer is finding time to appreciate the positive moments along the journey. On this episode of Campfires of Hope: How to Cancer, survivor Brad Glassel discusses “Cancerversaries” and shares ideas for how to celebrate cancer milestones.

How to Cancer: How to Get Involved with Cancer Patient Research

Epic Experience — Wed, 04 May 2022 14:53:11 +0000

On this episode of Campfires of Hope: How to Cancer, Sabine Schwab discusses how you, as a cancer survivor, can help others by being involved in patient research. Sabine is a brain cancer survivor, patient advocate, and member of the Epic Experience Board of Directors. She discusses how participation in surveys, clinical trials, and quality-of-life studies provides valuable feedback for researchers to improve treatment, medicine, and care options for patients in the future.

How to Cancer: How To Be Your Own Advocate When Diagnosed With Cancer

Epic Experience — Mon, 11 Apr 2022 18:16:08 +0000

On this episode of Campfires of Hope: How to Cancer, leukemia and bone marrow transplant survivor Vanessa Hood discusses how to be your own advocate when diagnosed with cancer. Vanessa details the 4 C’s that she lives by: confidence, communication, community, and continual education. When meeting with doctors, she recommends taking notes and recording conversations to review and process information later. Being diagnosed with cancer is a new and overwhelming experience, so having the capacity to educate, communicate, and advocate for yourself is tremendously helpful.

How to Cancer: What to Wear to Cancer Treatment

Epic Experience — Thu, 31 Mar 2022 04:00:00 +0000

On this episode of Campfires of Hope: How to Cancer, survivor Carly Weingart gives helpful tips on what to wear to cancer treatment. She discusses the importance of wearing clothes that are warm, comfortable, and accessible. Tune in to hear all of Carly's suggestions for clothing and accessories when preparing for treatment.

Caregiving For Your Partner

Epic Experience — Mon, 14 Mar 2022 18:25:28 +0000

On this episode of Campfires of Hope: Living Beyond Cancer, we welcome Dan Crail and Scott Hood, both caregivers to their wives who are cancer thrivers. During this episode, Dan and Scott share their successes, struggles, and lessons learned while caring for their wives during diagnosis, treatment, and beyond.

Navigating Disability Insurance

Epic Experience — Wed, 05 Jan 2022 20:47:02 +0000

Description: On this episode of Campfires Of Hope: Living Beyond Cancer we welcome Triage Cancer CEO Joanna Morales. Triage Cancer is a national, nonprofit organization that provides free education on the legal and practical issues that may impact individuals diagnosed with cancer and their caregivers, through Joanna shares how to navigate disability insurance for the cancer community and what you need to know in how you find what fits you best.

Facing Cancer As A Man

Epic Experience — Wed, 01 Dec 2021 21:44:23 +0000

On this episode of Campfires Of Hope: Living Beyond Cancer we welcome cancer survivor, Trevor Maxwell. Trevor is the creator and founder of Man Up To Cancer, an online support community for men facing cancer whether as a survivor or caregiver. Man Up to Cancer is a guy’s roadmap to facing cancer with an open heart and a warrior spirit. Tune in and learn Trevors survivorship story and how this group empowers the male cancer community.

Finding Humor Through Cancer

Epic Experience — Fri, 22 Oct 2021 13:38:09 +0000

On this episode of Campfires Of Hope: Living Beyond Cancer we welcome cancer survivor, Dan Shapiro, Ph.D. Dan is a clinical psychologist that through the hardships of a cancer diagnosis was able to find a way to turn his story into humor and share it with the cancer community. Tune in for an entertaining episode that is full of hilarious stories but also realistic truths when facing cancer.

What Is A Clinical Trial ?

Epic Experience — Wed, 15 Sep 2021 03:53:17 +0000

On this episode of Campfires Of Hope: Living Beyond Cancer we welcome Gryt Health team members Dan Platt, MD and Lauren Lastauskas. Dan and Lauren share how to get involved in clinical trials, how it can benefit your medical care and debunk some of the myths regarding clinical trials. They also share how Gryt Health empowers the adult cancer community through their programs.

Changing The Face Of Lung Cancer

Epic Experience — Mon, 30 Aug 2021 19:31:34 +0000

On this episode of Campfires Of Hope: Living Beyond Cancer we welcome Chris Draft. Chris has taken his experience of playing professional football in the NFL for 11 seasons to building Team Draft, whose mission is to change the face of lung cancer. Chris experienced lung cancer first hand through Keasha, his wife and Team Draft co-founder and her year-long struggle and passing from stage IV lung cancer. In this episode we discuss topics such as support, education, treatment advancements, and most of all community also known as YOUR Team.

Losing A Young Adult Child To Cancer

Epic Experience — Tue, 03 Aug 2021 22:42:53 +0000

Description: On this episode of Campfires Of Hope: Living Beyond Cancer we welcome parent caregivers Karen Hines and Susan Krapinski as they discuss caregiving for their young adult daughters and the journey of coping with their passing. They discuss topics such as self care, anxiety, coping with death, and caring on their daughters legacy’s.

Caregiving as a Parent

Epic Experience — Wed, 30 Jun 2021 21:08:05 +0000

On this episode of Campfires Of Hope: Living Beyond Cancer we welcome Epic Experience founder and caregiver Nancy Ferro and Leanne Blackburn. These two woman will share their experience of what it was like to care for their adult child who was diagnosed with cancer. They discuss topics such as self care, anxiety, fears and successes through their cancer experience.

Wigs and Cancer

Epic Experience — Thu, 10 Jun 2021 18:00:28 +0000

On this episode of Campfires of Hope: Living Beyond Cancer we welcome cancer thrivers Amanda Blackburn and Heidi Fuller to discuss Wigs and Cancer. Heidi is the founder and owner of Awakenings Boutique in Louisville, KY. Listen in and hear how Heidi empowered Amanda through her cancer journey.

Why AYA Cancer Matters

Epic Experience — Mon, 24 May 2021 18:52:19 +0000

On this episode of Campfires of Hope: Living Beyond Cancer we welcome Matthew Zachary as our guest. Matthew is the founder of Stupid Cancer, current CEO of OffScrip Media and host of the Out Of Patients Podcast. In 2007, Matthew founded Stupid Cancer and gave birth to the AYA, young adult cancer movement. Matthew discusses what AYA cancer is, how it is different and why it matters.

Dating & Cancer

Epic Experience — Tue, 04 May 2021 18:03:41 +0000

On this podcast of Campfires Of Hope: Living Beyond Cancer we will be discussing Dating & Cancer. Our guests for this episode are cancer thrivers Michael Ferro and Carly Weingart. We will discuss their cancer diagnosis and how they have navigated dating before, during and after a cancer diagnosis. Our guests will share their initial cancer diagnosis experience, hardships of dating, fertility concerns and a variety of survivorship topics that have empowered them to live beyond cancer.

Living Beyond Stage 4 Cancer

Epic Experience — Tue, 06 Apr 2021 19:26:00 +0000

On this podcast of Campfires Of Hope: Living Beyond Cancer, we will be talking with stage 4 cancer survivors & thrivers about their diagnosis and how they live beyond their terminal cancer diagnosis. We will be speaking with lung cancer thriver Hazel, thymic carcinoma thriver Louis and metastatic breast cancer thriver Paige. Our guests will share their initial cancer diagnosis experience, life after treatment, and address a variety of survivorship topics that have empowered them to live beyond cancer.

Living With Non Hodgkin Lymphoma

Epic Experience — Tue, 09 Mar 2021 22:56:35 +0000

Featured Guests: Cancer Thrivers Kelli Medina and Matt Palmer

On this episode of Campfires Of Hope we will joined by Non Hodgkin Lymphoma cancer thrivers Kelli Medina and Matt Palmer. Our guests will share their initial cancer diagnosis experience, life after treatment and address a variety of survivorship topics that have empowered them to live beyond cancer.

Fertility And Cancer

Epic Experience — Tue, 09 Mar 2021 22:48:08 +0000

Featured Guest: Fertility Expert Dr Laxmi Kondapalli

Fertility is a topic that impacts many young adult and adult cancer survivors and thrivers. Dr. Laxmi Kondapalli is an award-winning, board-certified reproductive endocrinologist at CCRM Fertility in Colorado. Dr. Kondapalli studies the long-term consequences of cancer therapy on ovarian function and fertility, with a particular focus on improving fertility preservation options for cancer patients.

Epic Experience Programs: Empowering The Adult Cancer Community

Epic Experience — Tue, 09 Mar 2021 22:01:40 +0000

Featured Guest: Colin Ferro – Epic Experience Director of Operations

Are you new to the Epic Experience family? Are you wondering what Epic Experience is all about? Join Epic Experience Director Of Operations, Colin Ferro as he shares the past, present and future of Epic Experience and the programs they provide to empower the adult cancer community.

Igniting Campfires Of Hope

Epic Experience — Wed, 03 Feb 2021 17:22:00 +0000

Coming Soon!