What are the key differences between palliative care and hospice care in the UK and the US? David Holmes discusses the distinctions between palliative and hospice care from the UK and US perspectives. He reflects on his wife Heather's cancer journey and their experience navigating these systems after moving from the UK to the US. Holmes describes how palliative care in the UK considers holistic care from an early stage. He contrasts this with the US where palliative care often transitions only w...
Mar 18, 2025•30 min•Season 2Ep. 341
Maria Boyce joins Dorothy to discuss her breast cancer journey and the impact of social determinants on health, the non-medical factors that play an important role in a person’s health and wellness, such as where people live, work, and receive their education. She emphasizes early detection and the value of support from family and doctors. Maria also shares her treatment success and genetic testing results. Her experience battling cancer has strengthened her advocacy for access to life-saving br...
Mar 13, 2025•34 min•Season 2Ep. 340
David Holmes shares the multifaceted journey of his wife Heather's cancer diagnosis and their move to the United States, highlighting healthcare system differences and the emotional rollercoaster of caregiving. Throughout Heather’s battle with triple negative breast cancer, the couple balanced reality with hope, even amidst challenging treatments and family life. Ultimately, their experience underscores the holistic approach Heather championed as a specialist nurse, focusing on quality and meani...
Mar 11, 2025•37 min•Season 2Ep. 339
Dinah McClymonds shares her journey with triple negative breast cancer and how regular mammograms detected her condition. She elaborates on her 2016 diagnosis and subsequent chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation, until she completed treatment a year later. Dinah had a positive experience with the medical care she received but acknowledges that many women lack such access. Her conversation with Dorothy highlights that early detection can significantly impact outcomes, even for those without a fami...
Mar 06, 2025•32 min•Season 2Ep. 338
Brahana Marksberry's 25-year career at The Rose highlights her commitment to helping women navigate complex healthcare systems. Starting as an office manager more than two decades ago, she grew to become a vital figure, especially with assisting the uninsured. Brahana’s role ensures women receive the care they need, despite the challenges they may face within Texas’ healthcare system. Key Questions Answered 1.) Who is Brahana Marksberry, and what role does she play at The Rose? 2.) How long has ...
Mar 04, 2025•26 min•Season 2Ep. 337
Dee Benson’s inspiring journey from overcoming addiction to championing breast cancer awareness and support is an extraordinary example of determination and resilience. After discovering her diagnosis during a long-overdue mammogram and facing insurance hurdles, she sought help from The Rose, following their pink mobile mammography coach she noticed while driving. Her mission now is connecting with communities to ensure no one faces their health battles alone. Key Questions Answered 1. What prom...
Feb 27, 2025•31 min•Season 2Ep. 338
Dorothy Gibbons discusses the rising incidence of invasive breast cancer among young women, highlighting the urgency of early detection and proactive health measures. From 2015 to 2019, breast cancer cases in women aged 40 to 49 increased with a concerning trend also noted in younger ages. The United States Preventive Services Task Force previously advised starting mammograms at 50, potentially overlooking younger women at risk. Dorothy shares findings from a Canadian study reporting a significa...
Feb 25, 2025•9 min•Season 2Ep. 337
Dr. Partha Nandi, a gastroenterologist and internal medicine doctor, delves into this intricate relationship between our gut and our brain in his book, "Heal Your Gut, Save Your Brain." Spurred by his father's stroke, he explores how gut health can influence brain function. Through his five pillars of health, Dr. Nandi offers practical steps for improving both gut and brain health. Key Questions Answered 1. What motivated Dr. Nandi to write his book on gut health? 2. How are the gut and the brai...
Feb 20, 2025•30 min•Season 2Ep. 336
Dr. Raz joins Dorothy Gibbons to discuss the increasing incidence of breast cancer in women under 40 and the challenges of early detection. He explains that improved screening technology and methodologies are revealing more cases and emphasizes the need for nuanced risk stratification models to identify higher-risk women earlier. Key Questions Answered 1. Has cancer increased in younger women? 2. What does incidence refer to? 3. Why might the incidence of cancer be increasing? 4. Would changing ...
Feb 18, 2025•22 min•Season 2Ep. 335
“Booze and Boobs,” started by friends Star Hand and Chloe Di Leo, started as a fun get-together and evolved into a significant fundraiser for breast cancer awareness. Their ingenious approach ensures every dollar raised goes directly to The Rose, aiding countless women in need. This annual event merges fun and philanthropy seamlessly. Key Questions Answered 1. What is the focus of this episode? 2. Who started the Booze and Boobs event? 3. What is the main purpose of Booze and Boobs? 4. How do th...
Feb 13, 2025•10 min•Season 2Ep. 334
Dra. Cotes y Elda abordan la importancia crítica de la detección temprana del cáncer de mama, especialmente en la comunidad hispana. Destacan cómo el miedo, la falta de conocimiento y las barreras culturales a menudo impiden que las mujeres busquen atención médica, subrayando que la conciencia y la intervención temprana pueden salvar vidas. La Dra. Cotes comparte su experiencia como médica, destacando los desafíos emocionales de dar diagnósticos de cáncer, pero también el profundo sentido de sat...
Feb 12, 2025•27 min•Season 2Ep. 333
Ronnie Hagerty, board member of The Rose, recounts her personal story of rallying together with friends years ago when a close friend was diagnosed with breast cancer. She describes the important role friends can play during this time; a role no other person can fill. This was also the first time she encountered seeing the different ways The Rose helps women. Known for her deep understanding of philanthropy and the regulations governing 501(c)3 organizations, Ronnie has spent her career helping ...
Feb 11, 2025•31 min•Season 2Ep. 332
Justin Kendrick, SVP and CEO of Memorial Hermann The Woodlands Medical Center, shares his story of supporting his wife through cancer treatment while managing his family and career. He highlights the power of vulnerability and community and how resources and support from organizations like Canopy played a crucial role in their journey. Additionally, Justin’s emphasis on gratitude and human connection underscores the profound impact of a strong support network. Key Questions Answered 1. What pers...
Feb 06, 2025•34 min•Season 2Ep. 331
Dawn Elliott, Physician Liaison at The Rose, recounts her breast cancer journey with host Dorothy Gibbons. For years, Dawn's gynecologist emphasized the need for a baseline mammogram at 35 despite no family history. Once she turned 35, Dawn scheduled her regular gynecologist appointment, and he noticed a lump during her exam. This led to biopsies revealing stage zero cancer. Dawn's experience propelled her into community outreach, working at MD Anderson and the University of Chicago in cancer ge...
Feb 04, 2025•28 min•Season 2Ep. 330
How can breast cancer screening guidelines affect women's healthcare access? Dorothy Gibbons discusses recent changes in breast cancer screening recommendations. JAMA confirmed that starting screenings at age 40 improves outcomes. Previously, the USPSTF advised screening starting at age 50, but now they recommend it for women aged 40 to 74, every other year. Dorothy advocates for annual screenings for more effective detection. She differentiates between routine and diagnostic mammograms, emphasi...
Jan 30, 2025•7 min•Season 2Ep. 330
How do couples navigate the tumultuous journey of unexpected medical crises? For Wayne and Ivanna, it began with Wayne's emergency retina surgery, quickly followed by Ivanna's shocking breast cancer diagnosis at age 33. They found solace and strength in each other, embracing health advocacy and community support. Through their ordeal, they transformed their challenges into a mission to inspire and educate others. Key Questions Answered 1. What health advocacy steps does Ivanna recommend for wome...
Jan 28, 2025•37 min•Season 3Ep. 329
How does one turn a personal battle into a mission for societal good? Michelle Holland's experience with cancer has evolved into advocacy for early detection and patient support. As a cancer survivor working at Siemens Healthineers, she promotes advanced mammography for earlier diagnosis. Her story underscores the power of self-advocacy and resilience. Subscribe to Let ’ s Talk About Your Breasts on Apple Podcasts , Spotify , iHeart , and wherever you get your podcasts . Key Questions Answered 1...
Jan 23, 2025•32 min•Season 2Ep. 328
Diagnosed with breast cancer while living a health-conscious lifestyle, Nancy Martch aggressively battled her Stage 3B diagnosis head-on. Now, leveraging her yoga expertise, Nancy empowers others through personalized yoga therapy, blending acceptance and self-awareness into her healing approach. Key Questions Answered 1. How did Nancy discover her breast cancer? 2. What kind of lifestyle was Nancy leading when she was diagnosed with cancer? 3. How has yoga helped Nancy cope with her cancer diagn...
Jan 21, 2025•31 min•Season 3Ep. 327
What can we do to feed ourselves better food so we can live our best lives? Dr. Dixie Melillo joins Dorothy to answer that question, and others. And these are hard truths we all need to hear. She and Dorothy talk about nutrition as it pertains to not only cancer, but to overall health. The conversation also shines a spotlight on the healthcare system’s biggest issues, the role of processed foods, and the benefits of intermittent fasting. Dr. Melillo encourages individuals to take responsibility ...
Jan 16, 2025•31 min•Season 2Ep. 326
En este episodio, la Dra. Cotes, profesora asistente y jefa de la división de imágenes mamarias en UT Health en Houston, comparte su inspiradora historia, desde su Colombia natal hasta convertirse en una destacada radióloga mamaria en los EE.UU., su misión de servir a la comunidad hispana y su transición de The Rose a UT Health. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan 15, 2025•23 min
Ashma Khanani-Moosa, Rose board member and two-time cancer survivor, has channeled her life experiences into guiding and supporting women through various challenges. She joins Dorothy Gibbons to discuss her journey to become a certified life coach – from losing her mother at a young age, experiencing multiple miscarriages, and her fights against cancer. Ashma now leads support groups and offers encouragement and tools for others to overcome their struggles. Key Questions Answered 1. What role do...
Jan 14, 2025•32 min•Season 3Ep. 324
In recognition of National Law Enforcement Day, The Rose invites you to listen to today’s episode with breast cancer survivor, and one of the City of Galveston’s finest, Sgt. Stacy Papillion. “If your doctor didn’t listen to you, you need to find another doctor.” Those are the words of Stacy. Affectionately known as “Sergeant Pap,” Stacy knows a thing or two about breast cancer. She beat it twice. The second time around was a battle she fought alongside her mother, who was also diagnosed. During...
Jan 09, 2025•33 min•Season 2Ep. 323
In this mini-episode, Dorothy talks about the importance of setting goals for the new year. She sets one-hundred six goals every year. ONE-HUNDRED SIX! Dorothy will go over why she writes hers down and how we should write ours down. Keyword: WRITE. You'll hear the exact words to use and which ones to avoid at all costs. We'd love to know your goals. After writing them down, tag us on Facebook and Instagram. We're rooting for you! Help us share the mission of The Rose by subscribing to Let’s Talk...
Jan 07, 2025•10 min•Season 2Ep. 322
In this episode, Dorothy Gibbons interviews her daughter-in-law, Dr. L.J. Henderson, a primary care physician in Canada. Dr. Henderson breaks down distinctions between Canadian and U.S. healthcare and touches on her career path, revealing how family medicine in Canada has evolved. Key Questions Answered 1. What is the difference between a General Practitioner (GP) and a Family Physician in Canada? 2. What is the nature of Dr. Henderson's practice in Canada? 3. What are Dr. Henderson's experience...
Dec 19, 2024•29 min•Season 2Ep. 321
En este episodio, conversamos con la Monja y Dra. Roseanne Popp, directora de la Clínica CHRISTUS St. Mary’s y aliada clave de The Rose. La Dra. Popp nos comparte cómo ha dedicado su vida a servir a la comunidad hispana, aprendiendo español para conectar mejor con sus pacientes y romper barreras en el acceso a la salud. Hablamos sobre: Su trabajo con mujeres sin seguro médico para garantizar mamografías gratuitas o de bajo costo. Los programas de prevención que ofrece la Clínica CHRISTUS St. Mar...
Dec 18, 2024•15 min•Season 2Ep. 320
Valerie McDaniels' story of discovering a lump in her breast and delaying medical attention due to a phobia, quickly escalated to a life-or-death struggle. She tells Dorothy Gibbons how a cruise in December 2023 revealed the critical nature of her condition when the mass burst, forcing her to seek urgent care. Ultimately, the support of her family and faith empowered Valerie to confront her fears and undergo the necessary exams and eventual treatments for breast cancer. Key Questions Answered 1....
Dec 17, 2024•37 min•Season 2Ep. 319
Dr. Chadi Nabhan's dedication to oncology is deeply rooted in the human connection with his patients. With more than 20 years of experience, he joins Dorothy Gibbons to emphasize the importance of open communication and knowledge between patient and doctor. His journey highlights that trust and clear communication are fundamental to navigating the cancer journey. Key Questions Answered 1. What are the financial challenges related to waiving hospital fees for cancer patients? 2. How do social wor...
Dec 12, 2024•35 min•Season 2Ep. 318
Kirk Cox joins Dorothy on Let’s Talk About Your Breasts to discuss how early encounters with his mother's breast cancer in the 60s profoundly affected him. Watching her bravery through invasive surgeries and treatments left an indelible mark. This personal history guided him as he later managed his Aunt Dottie's care and faced the tragic loss of his own child. Key Questions Answered 1. How was Kirk Cox first introduced to breast cancer? 2. What were the treatments and experiences of his mother w...
Dec 10, 2024•29 min•Season 2Ep. 317
Ellen Chin's decision to quit her high-level job at the peak of her career is a story of self-discovery and courage. Struggling with grief and loneliness, Chin realized she needed to prioritize her mental health. Her journey emphasizes the importance of unplugging and resetting one's life. Key Questions Answered 1. What major life decision did Ellen Chin make? 2. What personal losses did Ellen experience that affected her decision? 3. How did Ellen’s father influence her career? 4. What mental h...
Dec 05, 2024•18 min•Season 2Ep. 316
Ellen Chen's story of navigating a career change after her father's passing is one of introspection and reinvention. Balancing personal grief and professional demands, Ellen chose to resign from her demanding HR role. This pivotal decision allowed her to prioritize family and launch her own consulting firm. Key Questions Answered 1. What prompted Ellen Chen to share her personal story at this moment? 2. What was the health condition of Ellen’s father, and what happened to him? 3. How did Ellen C...
Dec 05, 2024•34 min•Season 2Ep. 315
