Let's Talk About Your Breasts

Fawn Preuss, a community benefits officer at Common Spirit, discusses the organization's grants program and its efforts to address healthcare disparities in rural areas. She emphasizes the importance of community collaboration and meeting the needs of the most vulnerable populations. During this conversation, Fawn also highlights the role of social determinants of health and the focus on measurable outcomes in grant selection. She shares personal experiences living in a rural area and the unique challenges faced by these communities. Dorothy and Fawn also touch on topics such as access to care, food insecurity, and the importance of self-care. Key Questions Answered 1.) What is Common Spirit's grants program and how does it aim to address healthcare disparities in rural areas? 2.) Why is community collaboration important in addressing the needs of vulnerable populations? 3.) How does Common Spirit focus on social determinants of health and measurable outcomes in their grant selection process? 4.) What personal experiences does Fawn share about living in a rural area and the unique challenges faced by these communities? 5.) What topics does the conversation touch on, such as access to care, food insecurity, and the importance of self-care? Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 03:53 The Common Spirit Grants Program 05:19 Community Needs and Service Areas 06:17 Access to Care Challenges in Rural Areas 08:43 The Role of Hospitals in Community Health 10:06 The Impact of Grants on Rural Communities 13:21 Understanding Rural Healthcare 18:43 Measurable Outcomes in Grant Selection 20:42 The Importance of Social Determinants of Health 22:31 Living in the Country: Community and Self-Care 23:56 Community Engagement and Partnerships 25:24 The Impact of Grants on Education and Injury Prevention 27:51 Personal Description and Motivation 29:38 The Importance of Self-Care See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“Bear” Hebert is a renowned auctioneer from the Houston area and a champion of The Rose for over thirty years. The episode starts with a sneak peek into Bear's early life, where he found his calling in auctioneering and has never looked back. Dorothy and Bear go down memory lane as they reflect on how they met and how he became one of The Rose’s best friends. You’ll also hear a side of Bear you’ve never heard before. He gets candid about his family’s battle with breast cancer. And you’ll get some sage wisdom about caring for a spouse/partner enduring breast cancer. We’re only a month away from The Rose’s 35th Annual Shrimp Boil. So, if you haven’t already purchased tickets, please do so at therose.org. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Lerman shares her journey from being a scientist to being diagnosed with cancer and creating sugarless chocolate. She discusses her background in science and her passion for research. She explains how she got into the field of immunotherapy and her experience with being diagnosed with cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. Dr. Lerman emphasizes the importance of addressing the root cause of cancer and the role of sugar in promoting inflammation. As the founder of Sinless Treats, a company that offers sugarless chocolate, Dr. Lerman believes that her chocolate can help people improve their health and detox from sugar. Key Questions Answered 1.) What was Dr. Lerman's background and journey from being a scientist to starting a sugarless chocolate company? 2.) How did Dr. Lerman get involved in the field of immunotherapy and what was her experience with being diagnosed with cancer? 3.) According to Dr. Lerman, what is the importance of addressing the root cause of cancer and the role of sugar in promoting inflammation? 4.) What is Dr. Lerman's belief about how her sugarless chocolate can help people improve their health and detox from sugar? Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 10:22 Diagnosis and Focus on Root Cause 28:42 Opening of Sinless Cafe 33:27 Making a Positive Impact on Health See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rachel Evans made one of the most difficult choices a woman could make. She chose to undergo a mastectomy due to a positive BRCA1 gene mutation. During this episode, Dorothy and Rachel talk about the emotional and physical challenges of the surgery and the impact it had on her femininity and ability to breastfeed. Rachel emphasizes the importance of research and information for women considering reconstruction after a mastectomy. And she opens up about the support she received from her husband, who is also a cancer survivor, and her hope for her children to remain positive and informed about their own health. Key Questions Answered 1.) How can having a family history of breast cancer and a positive BRCA1 gene mutation lead to difficult decisions about preventive measures like mastectomy? 2.) How can reconstruction after a mastectomy have emotional and physical challenges? 3.) What does support from loved ones, like Rachel's husband, do for someone who just underwent a double mastectomy? 4.) Why is maintaining a positive attitude and staying informed about screening and available resources important to individuals facing a high risk of breast cancer? Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 03:21 Growing Up with Breast Cancer Awareness 06:14 Considering the Genetic Testing 08:09 Making the Decision for Mastectomy 09:07 The Emotional Impact and Support 11:59 Reconstruction Challenges and Regrets 16:14 Supporting a Partner with Cancer 20:16 Hope for the Next Generation 21:43 The Strength of a Mother 23:12 Closing Remarks See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Linda Petticrew is one determined woman. She’s worked hard and many long hours to build a stunning career as an Executive Assistant to some of the top CEO’s in the city. But her real strength tenacity was when she faced breast cancer, not once but twice. Diagnosed at a young age, she fought and won her battle and then twenty years later had to fight it again. During this episode, Linda talks about her experience. And she gets candid about her treatment in the workplace and the difference an employer can make in the life of someone dealing with treatment. Key Questions Answered 1.) How does maintaining a positive attitude and having a strong support system help in coping with a cancer diagnosis? 2.) Why are regular check-ups and screenings important for early detection and treatment of cancer? 3.) How can genetic testing provide valuable information for making informed decisions about preventive measures? 4.) What is the impact of cancer, beyond the individual and their entire family? Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Linda's Background 01:27 The Power of Executive Assistants and Supportive Work Environments 08:14 Maintaining a Positive Attitude and Overcoming Challenges 12:29 Genetic Testing and Preventive Measures 16:13 The Impact of Cancer on Family and Relationships 21:28 Prioritizing Family and Looking Towards the Future 23:17 Hope for a Cancer-Free Future See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

She lost her husband and her mother in one year. Mona Ellakany’s new reality left her with a choice: Stay in America or move back to home to Egypt. She chose America, but in 2021 Monica was diagnosed with breast cancer. During this powerful episode, she shares her story of struggle, her breast cancer experience, and all the ways her community had rallied to support her and her children. Mona is this year’s honoree at Hats and Henna High Tea on May 5th at The Junior League Houston. Learn more at therose.org. Key Questions Answered 1.) How can making tough decisions for the sake of your children provide a sense of purpose and strength, even in the face of cataclysmic loss? 2.) In what ways does having a supportive community of friends make a significant difference in navigating difficult times? 3.) Why does facing a breast cancer diagnosis require adapting to a new reality and accepting ongoing treatment? 4.) Why does remaining strong for your children and cherishing the moments with them provide motivation and hope? 5.) How is self-care is essential in maintaining physical and emotional well-being throughout one’s breast cancer experience? Chapters 00:00 Introduction: Mona's Story of Loss and Resilience 06:43 Making Tough Decisions for the Sake of Your Children 25:34 Remaining Strong for Your Children: A Mother's Motivation 31:44 Cherishing Moments: Finding Hope in the Midst of Challenges See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Rose’s board chair Theresa Einhorn joins the show today. In this episode, she and Dorothy talk about her journey from attorney to advocate. Theresa shares the hurdles she overcame in a male-dominated legal field and reflects on her experience with those in her life who have fought with breast cancer. She underscores the significance of self-care and sheds light on The Rose's pivotal role in granting healthcare access and fostering advocacy. To support The Rose’s mission and stay updated on empowering stories like Theresa's, remember to share this episode with your friends and family. If you'd like to contribute to our cause, consider making a donation at [The Rose Breast Center of Excellence](https://www.therose.org). Share Theresa's story with your family and friends, and support the life-changing work of The Rose by donating at therose.org. Key Questions Answered 1.) Where does Theresa's commitment to women's empowerment come from? 2.) Why are access to healthcare and removing stigma crucial for women's well-being? 3.) How are advocacy and education essential in improving healthcare policies and ensuring access for all? 4.) How does Theresa hope and plan to leave a lasting impact? Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Role of a Board Chair 01:27 Background and Commitment to Women's Empowerment 06:06 Immigration and Transition to the United States 06:35 Challenges Faced as a Woman in the Legal Profession 08:01 Personal Experience with Breast Cancer 10:38 Self-Care and Taking Care of Oneself 11:35 Lessons Learned from Working with The Rose 13:35 Access to Healthcare and Advocacy 19:41 Aspirations and Contentment 21:02 Closing Remarks See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kathy Stevens joins Dorothy to share her experience with breast cancer. From her initial diagnosis to her current battle with metastatic disease, the conversation takes many turns. You’ll be moved as she recounts the treatments she has undergone, including a double mastectomy, radiation, and chemotherapy. With raw vulnerability, Kathy delves into the emotional challenges that accompanied her journey, like losing her hair, and the uncertainty surrounding her prognosis. Kathy's wisdom extends beyond her personal experience. She offers practical advice on navigating the complexities of medical bills and insurance claims – a valuable resource for those facing similar battles. Share Kathy's story with your family and friends, and support the life-changing work of The Rose by donating at therose.org. Key Questions Answered 1.) Why is it important to seek medical attention promptly if any abnormalities are noticed? 2.) How can radiation treatment can cause skin burns, especially in individuals with fair skin? 3.) Why should friends and family should make an effort to include and involve them in activities? 4.) Why do patients need to review their bills carefully and seek assistance to ensure accurate billing and avoid overpayment? Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Diagnosis 01:15 Treatment and Side Effects 04:46 Hair Loss and Coping 05:42 Motorcycle Riding as Therapy 07:31 Cancer-Free Period and Recurrence 08:01 Discovering Metastatic Breast Cancer 09:16 Dealing with the Diagnosis 10:26 Preparing for the End 11:51 Dependence on Caregiver 13:20 Importance of Support and Communication 14:46 Financial Considerations and Insurance 18:57 Mike's Motorcycle Ride for Charity See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mike Hazelrigs takes us on a ride through his life as a biker and his profound involvement with The Rose and Bikers Against Breast Cancer. With candor, he shares the story of meeting his fiancé Kathy, who was diagnosed with cancer, and the challenges they faced together as a couple. Mike's motivation for participating in the Hokohay Motorcycle Challenge is a testament to his unwavering commitment to raising funds and awareness for The Rose. His words resonate with a deep appreciation for the power of community, support, and prioritizing what truly matters in life. Through his experiences, Mike offers a unique perspective on the impact of breast cancer, not only on the individual but also on their loved ones. His story serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience and strength that can be found in even the most trying circumstances. Join us as we celebrate Mike's remarkable journey and his dedication to making a difference in the lives of those affected by breast cancer. Share Mike's inspiring story with your family and friends, and support the life-changing work of The Rose by donating at therose.org. Together, we can make a lasting impact in the fight against breast cancer. Key Questions Answered 1.) What ways does a cancer diagnosis change priorities and perspectives on life? 2.) Why is support from loved ones and a strong community crucial during difficult times? 3.) How does setting goals and focusing on little victories provide motivation and fulfillment? 4.) What does “Hoka Hey” mean, and how does it influence Mike? Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 01:15 Discovering the Rose and Bikers Against Breast Cancer 06:52 Difficult Times and Finding Strength 08:08 Facing Metastatic Cancer Diagnosis 09:36 Motivation and Bucket List 10:39 The Hokohay Motorcycle Challenge 16:05 Raising Money for the Rose 22:45 Advice for Others Going Through Similar Challenges 23:55 Sources of Support 25:56 Importance of Community and Priorities 26:25 Impact of the Ride and Appreciation for the Rose See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What’s it like to be a real live Angel? Marva Skinner shares what it takes and why Angels Surviving Cancer is so important to women. She lost both parents, battled and won her own breast cancer and now spends her time helping others. In this episode, you’ll learn how she found a renewed sense of purpose through her involvement with the organization and as a breast cancer survivor, how her experience guides her in navigating others through their breast cancer journey. You’ll hear why Angels Surviving Cancer is not just an organization; it's a lifeline, offering mentorship, financial assistance, scholarships, and organizing events to honor and support breast cancer patients and their families. It's a reminder that behind every breast cancer diagnosis is a person in need of support, understanding, and hope. Please consider sharing this episode with your family and friends at therose.org. Your action may save the life of an uninsured woman. Key Questions Answered 1.) How can one find purpose and hope while going through breast cancer? 2.) What ways does Angels Surviving Cancer provide support, mentorship, and education to breast cancer patients? 3.) Why are more people needed to get involved and support the mission of Angels Surviving Cancer? Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 01:01 Finding Purpose and Hope 02:13 Personal Experience with Breast Cancer 03:35 Support and Assistance for Breast Cancer Patients 06:04 Personal Support for Vanessa 08:24 Providing Skills and Education 09:23 Prayer Breakfast and Scholarships 11:22 Expanding Reach and Support 12:50 Closing Remarks See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Do angels really exist? According to Vanessa Jackson, indeed they do and hers helped her survive breast cancer and domestic violence. From the safety of a shelter, and uninsured, she faced a diagnosis and treatment, but despite the worst of circumstances, Vanessa Jackson’s spirit remained unbroken. And today, we hear her story. Vanessa shares the hurdles she encountered and the support she received from The Rose and Angels Surviving Cancer. Throughout her experience, Vanessa was guided by her assigned angel, Marva, who provided emotional support and guidance, helping her to rebuild relationships and learn to advocate for herself. And her story drives home the importance of support systems and the role they play in a breast cancer patient's life. Please consider sharing this episode with your family and friends at therose.org. Your action may save the life of an uninsured woman. Key Questions Answered 1.) Why is having a support system, such as organizations like Angel Surviving Cancer, significant in a person's journey? 2.) How are rebuilding relationships and learning to advocate for oneself important aspects of healing and recovery? Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 03:25 Diagnosis and Initial Treatment 09:25 Support from Angel Surviving Cancer 13:44 The Role of Marva, the Assigned Angel 18:55 Learning to Navigate Life and Rebuilding Relationships 21:23 Recovery and Setting Goals 26:34 Recurrence and Second Treatment 30:20 Overcoming Challenges and Finding Strength 31:48 Conclusion and Hope for the Future See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Aeliya Jaffar’s story is both harrowing and inspiring. She’s a former pharmacist who was diagnosed with breast cancer one year postpartum during the COVID-19 pandemic. As if that’s not enough heartache, her paternal grandmother passed away. During this episode, Aeliya gets candid about her struggles, her triumphs, and she shares her story with an unflinching attitude of strength and heroism with a touch of humor. Help us grow the show by leaving a review on your podcast platform and sharing with your family and friends. And please consider supporting our mission at therose.org. Your donation could help save the life of an uninsured woman. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this inspiring episode, Chantel Williams takes us on a remarkable journey, sharing her background as a military brat and her transition from logistics to finance. She candidly discusses how she and her husband took the leap and purchased the AFP Group, embarking on a new chapter as financial advisors. Chantel's involvement with the Junior League of Houston is a testament to her commitment to community service. As the outside board representative for The Rose, she offers a unique perspective, highlighting the invaluable opportunity for Junior League members to serve on nonprofit boards and make a tangible impact. With raw honesty, Chantel opens up about her personal experience with breast cancer, underscoring the paramount importance of advocating for oneself in the healthcare system. Her story serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience and strength that lies within each of us. Throughout the conversation, Chantel's passion for the Junior League shines through as she shares the invaluable knowledge and growth she has gained from her involvement with this esteemed organization and her role with The Rose. Join us as we celebrate Chantel's remarkable journey and her unwavering commitment to empowering others through advocacy, education, and community service. Share Chantel's inspiring story with your family and friends, and support the life-changing work of The Rose by donating at therose.org. Key Questions Answered 1.) In what ways does moving around as a military brat and experiencing different cultures shape her perspective and adaptability? 2.) How does being involved in organizations like the Junior League provide leadership skills and opportunities to make a positive impact in the community? 3.) Why is it important to advocate for oneself in healthcare is crucial, especially when it comes to early detection and prevention of diseases like breast cancer. 4.) How did Chantel’ role in the Junior League inspire her work with The Rose Chapters 00:00 Background and Moving Around 02:04 Career Path and Starting AFP Group 07:30 Joining the Junior League of Houston 09:21 Being the Outside Board Representative for The Rose 13:36 Personal Experience with Breast Cancer 24:17 Impact of Junior League Membership 26:48 Learning from The Rose 31:36 Importance of Junior League and The Rose See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jessica Duckworth is The Rose's Chief Operating Officer and mammographer. As the world began to shut down at the beginning of 2020, Jessica found a lump in her breast. In an effort to care for The Rose's patients, she put off screening and went full throttle, making sure they were cared for. As you might have predicted, this didn't bode well. Jessica was diagnosed with breast cancer. During this episode, you'll hear about her two year journey. And why it's important to listen to your body. Learn more about The Rose and our mission to provide quality breast health care to women across more than forty counties, regardless of their ability to pay, at therose.org. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this eye-opening episode, CEO and co-founder of The Rose, Dorothy Gibbons, sheds light on the alarming rise of breast cancer diagnoses among young women, particularly those who were pregnant or had given birth within the past five years. She shares real life stories of The Rose’s patients and the consequences young women face. Being pregnant or a new mother has enough challenges but that’s when it is more important than ever for women to remain vigilant and never ignore any new or persistent lumps. By shedding light on this often-overlooked issue, we can empower women to take charge of their health and seek the care they deserve. Share this episode with your family and friends and support the life-changing work of The Rose Breast Center of Excellence by donating at therose.org. Key Questions Answered 1.) Is postpartum breast cancer a real danger for young women? 2.) Is a woman’s postpartum status a prognostic indicator for breast cancer? 3.) Can a woman be too young to have breast cancer? Chapters 00:00 Increasing Number of Young Women Diagnosed with Breast Cancer 00:29 Risk of Metastatic Breast Cancer in Postpartum Women 00:58 Prognostic Indicator in Young Women with Breast Cancer 03:00 Real-Life Experiences of Young Women with Breast Cancer 03:40 Financial Barriers to Breast Cancer Diagnosis 05:14 Age and Access to Mammography 06:09 Raising Awareness about Breast Cancer Risk After Childbirth See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

An afternoon of yard work changed her life. Uninsured and discovering she had breast cancer, 37-year-old Ana Henriquez talks about her challenges and what it took to survive. With raw honesty, she dives into the emotional toll of losing her hair, saying goodbye to her breasts, and the unwavering love and encouragement she received from her husband and family. Ana emphasizes the critical importance of self-examination and urges all women to listen to their bodies, heeding the subtle signs that could potentially save lives and how The Rose’s help allowed her to concentrate on getting well. Share Ana's story with your family and friends and help support the life-changing work of The Rose by donating at therose.org. Key Questions Answered 1.) How does being uninsured add additional challenges to a breast cancer diagnosis? 2.) Why is open communication with loved ones important during treatment? Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Diagnosis 03:19 Dealing with Uninsured Status 05:45 Finding Support at The Rose 06:14 Patient Navigation Program 07:43 Support from Family 08:41 Losing Hair and Self-Image 10:11 Support from Spouse 11:39 Talking to Children about Diagnosis 13:12 Maintaining Normalcy and Working 14:11 Hispanic Community and Cancer 20:51 Saying Goodbye to Breasts 22:00 Support from Spouse 23:00 Treatment as a Younger Patient 24:30 Importance of Self-Examination 25:29 Shift in Priorities 27:22 Support from Clients 28:21 Ongoing Surveillance and Staying Positive 29:12 Closing Remark See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Crowd favorite Dr. Raz joins Dorothy for a new spinoff series called “Mammograms and More.” During this conversation, Dr. Raz sheds light on the importance of mammograms in detecting breast cancer early. He gets granular by explaining what a mammogram is and why it’s important to have one every year. Changing guidelines have left many women confused over the year, and Dr. Raz’s insights clear the air. He emphasizes the need for consistency and punctuality in mammogram screenings to catch cancer early and improve survivability. Please consider sharing this episode with your family and friends at therose.org. Your action may save the life of an uninsured woman. Key Questions Answered 1.) What’s a mammogram? 2.) Why should women get them done early? 3.) What are the different kinds of mammograms? 4.) How have changing guidelines had an impact on women’s health? 5.) Why is it important to get screened every year? Chapters 00:00 What is a mammogram? 01:23 Importance of annual mammograms 04:01 Role of USPSTF in setting guidelines 04:58 Impact of changing guidelines on insurance coverage 05:24 Difference between screening and diagnostic mammograms 08:10 What women need to know about mammograms See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What happens when your best friend has breast cancer, and that best friend happens to be your mother? Today, you’ll hear the story of Matt Wallace. Matt’s a writer and healthcare IT professional. He’s also the son of The Rose’s COO Jessica Duckworth, who was featured in episode twelve of season one. He opens up about the balance of supporting his mother through her treatment while managing his own emotional journey. He sheds light on the significance of being present for loved ones, not just in health, but through the trials of illness. And his story serves as another reminder that breast cancer affects the family, too. But it’s the gift he gave his mom that might move you to tears. Please consider sharing this episode with your family and friends at therose.org. Your action may save the life of an uninsured woman. Key Questions Asked 1.) How can you supporting a loved one with breast cancer? 2.) How do caregivers often carry their own emotional burdens during the fight against breast cancer? 3.) What ways does breast cancer affect the entire family and extended circles of people? 4.) How does the experience of breast cancer lead to changed perspectives and priorities? Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 01:26 Writing Horror and Children's Books 02:23 Matt's Role in Healthcare IT 03:23 Matt's Close Bond with His Mother 04:23 The Day of the Breast Cancer Diagnosis 06:35 Supporting His Mother During the Diagnosis 07:34 Telling Matt's Sister About the Diagnosis 08:02 Dealing with Breast Cancer During COVID-19 08:21 Processing the Diagnosis and Treatment Plan 09:49 Matt's Role as a Son and Caregiver 10:08 Supporting His Mother Through Writing 11:28 The Strength of Matt's Father 12:29 Mediating Family Support 13:39 Matt's Mother's Changed Perspective 14:09 Supportive Words and Actions 15:35 The Impact on Caregivers 16:04 Overwhelming Support from Family 17:47 The Impact on Extended Circles of People 18:18 The Isolating Nature of Cancer 19:14 Worries About the Future and Family History 19:42 Uncertainty and Milestones in Treatment 21:55 Witnessing the Struggles of Treatment 23:21 Recovery and Post-Treatment Challenges 24:54 Changed Perspectives and Priorities 26:49 Navigating Life Changes During Treatment 27:47 Concerns for the Future Generations 29:09 Advice for Others Going Through a Similar Experience 30:18 Closing Remarks See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This Women's History Month, The Rose celebrates trailblazers within the breast cancer community. Chris Noble retired and embarked on every retiree's dream. She traveled the world and had a blast. But then she got bored. So she got involved with The Rose and formed lifelong friendships. All while advocating for breast health in the Black community. Learn more about what The Rose does throughout the Greater Houston area at therose.org. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This Women's History Month, The Rose celebrates trailblazers within the breast cancer community. Waitresses and restaurant workers throughout the city struggle to access basic healthcare. As we celebrate Women’s History Month, we’re reminded of Dr. Lori Choi, a woman fighting for change. As the founder of I'll Have What She's Having, an organization dedicated to improving healthcare access for those in the restaurant industry, she provides unique insight as to why we need improved public policy. And how cultural differences and financial barriers can prevent individuals from receiving necessary care. This episode is a call to action to prioritize health and take steps to improve healthcare access for all women, especially those in underserved communities and challenging professions. Please consider sharing this episode with your family and friends at therose.org. Your action may save the life of an uninsured woman. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.