Living Hope

A camp for kids dealing with their parents cancer diagnosis

Join us as we talk with Ariya Selvakumar and Haley Kamola, Co-Directors of the Kesem Chapter at Chapman University. Kesem is a national nonprofit dedicated to supporting children through and beyond a parent’s cancer diagnosis. With over 120 college chapters nationwide, Kesem provides free, year-long services to affected families. Discover how Kesem at Chapman University offers a unique and empathetic community in Orange County, highlighted by their annual Camp Kesem summer camp, which connects kids with similar experiences at no cost to their families.

#Kesem #CampKesem #ChapmanUniversity #OCTalkRadio #UCICove

#ChildhoodCancerSupport #CancerAwareness #CancerCommunity

#SupportForKids #OrangeCounty

 

Empowerment & Hope: Navigating Patient Care with Mary Mickelson, PanCAN Case Manager

Mary Mickelson is a Case Manager I at the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN). Mary is passionate about ensuring that patients and caregivers receive all the information they need to be empowered and make informed decisions. On Living Hope, we discuss helping to get patients on the right track, clinical trials, the right team, learn what the Navigation Team is and what they do, clinical trial myths, and more.

"As long as you speak my name, I shall live forever" is dedicated to Mike Krazter.  

For more information please contact Patient Services at 877 2 pancan or 877-272-6226

 

What is a High Risk Pancreatic Cancr Clinic?

Dr. Raymond Wadlow is the Director of the High Risk Pancreatic Cancer Clinic, which focuses on early detection and prevention for individuals at high risk of developing pancreatic cancer. This clinic is part of the Pancreatic Cancer Early Detection (PRECEDE) Consortium, an international effort to improve the five-year survival rate for pancreatic cancer patients.

Dr. Wadlow is a highly regarded oncologist at the Inova Schar Cancer Institute, specializing in gastrointestinal oncology. His commitment to cancer research and treatment is driven by the personal loss of his mother, former Virginia State Senator Emily Couric, to pancreatic cancer. In addition to his role at the clinic, he serves as Co-Director of Gastrointestinal Oncology Research, Program Director of the Hematology-Oncology Fellowship Program, and is an Assistant Professor at the University of Virginia School of Medicine.

 

The Ultimate Walk to End Pancreatic Cancer

Living Hope: Your Journey with Pancreatic Cancer host Roberta Luna and her husband Vic, recap the recent PurpleStride event at the Honda Center. This was the 16th such event in Orange County and is known as "the ultimate walk to end pancreatic cancer." Anaheim Ducks Goalie Coach Sudarshan “Sudsie” Maharaj was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in May 2023, was the guest speaker.

Where can you learn about pancreatic cancer, ask questions and connect with Survivors?

Amy Reiss, Director of Patient Programs with the Hirshberg Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer Research joined Living Hope to talk about the 18th Annual Hirshberg Symposium taking place on April 13 at UCLA Luskin Conference Center.  Symposium topics include the latest in pancreatic cancer care, genetic testing, enzyme research, just to name a few.  There’s also a chance to ask questions of the experts and connect with survivors.  You can attend in person or virtually, go to pancreatic.org to register.

This episode is dedicated to Survivors Julie Lopp and Tom Arai

 

A Survivor's Journey Through Time and Resilience

Thom Mrozek, a 12-year survivor of pancreatic cancer, diagnosed on the unique day of Leap Day. Thom's diagnosis day has become symbolic of his extraordinary journey—rare, remarkable, and filled with unexpected turns. As he celebrates each leap year, he also marks another year of survival, another year of making a difference, and another year of cherishing the gift of time. His story is a profound testament to resilience, courage, and the unwavering human spirit. 

This episode is dedicated to Tom Gregory and his wife Debbie. 

"Strength in Support: Mike Greenstein's Journey as a Caregiver in the Fight Against Pancreatic Cancer"

In this episode of Living Hope, we welcome Mike Greenstein, a committed advocate in the battle against pancreatic cancer, driven by his experience as a caregiver for his sister Jackie. Mike combines his business expertise with deep compassion in his work at Let's Win! Pancreatic Cancer, aiming to strengthen the network of support for patients and their families. He delves into the caregiver's view on recognizing a patient's struggles and discusses ways to assist his sister within this reality. Additionally, Mike highlights the vital role that coaches play in guiding families through the pancreatic cancer journey. Tune in for a heartfelt discussion on empathy, assistance, and united efforts towards hope.

"As long as you speak my name, I shall live forever" is dedicated to Jaclyn Hope Greenstein. Jackie is remembered for her spirit and profound love for her family and friends, she was the embodiment of courage. Facing her fears with unwavering bravery.  Her legacy of inspiration continues to touch lives daily.

 

 

 

 

Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN) Turns 25!

Pamela Acosta Marquardt and Julie Fleshman have both been profoundly impacted by the loss of their parents to pancreatic cancer, which fueled their dedication to creating change. In 1996, Pam faced the loss of her mother after a six-month struggle with the disease. Confronted by the lack of resources and support for pancreatic cancer, she was driven to take action, ensuring that individuals and families affected by this illness would have access to vital information, resources, and hope. Similarly, Julie's journey at PanCAN was ignited by personal tragedy when she lost her father just four months following his diagnosis at the age of 52. Dissatisfied with the inadequate treatment options available, Julie has spent over two decades as a leader and a global catalyst for change, fighting for better outcomes for those facing pancreatic cancer. Together, their personal experiences have not only shaped their leadership at PanCAN but also exemplified their unwavering commitment to the cause.

Facts vs Feelings

While facts are critical to understanding and treating the disease, feelings are equally important in shaping the patient's experience and approach to care. The podcast serves as a reminder that in the face of a challenging diagnosis, the fusion of facts and feelings guides not just survival, but the quality of life.

Clinical Trials from a Dr/Reseachers perspective

Dr. Jose Trevino serves multifaceted roles one as the Surgeon-in-Chief at Virginia Commonwealth University Massey Cancer Center. He is dedicated to not only providing patient care and education but also contributing to the field of pancreatic cancer research.  Developing novel therapies and advancing research in health disparities related to pancreatic cancer are crucial efforts that can have a significant impact on improving outcomes for patients.  Clinical trials play a crucial role in advancing medical research and improving healthcare outcomes. We had a honest in depth talk with Dr. Trevino about the world of clinical trials.  

"I wanted to be the that person that was going to tackle the the biggest obstacles and you can't get a bigger obstacle than pancreatic cancer." Dr Trevino

"As long as you speak my name I shall live forever" is dedicated to Shana Stein and the others who have participated in a clinical trial with our deepest appreciation.