Patient from Hell

This episode is sponsored by Gilead Sciences. Gilead had no involvement or input in the podcast content. Gilead is working to transform how cancer is treated. We are innovating with next-generation therapies, combinations, and technologies to deliver improved outcomes for people with cancer. From antibody drug conjugates and small molecules to cell therapy-based approaches, our portfolio and pipeline assets are creating new possibilities for people with cancer.Recorded on location at the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium, December 2025.Metastatic triple-negative breast cancer remains the breast cancer subtype with the fewest targetable biomarkers and the shortest treatment algorithm. When a trial reports a double-digit progression-free survival in the first-line setting, it is worth understanding what that actually changes and how the trial was designed with patient outcomes at the center.This episode was recorded in December 2025, before regulatory action. On June 24, 2026, the FDA approved sacituzumab govitecan-hziy for two first-line indications in triple-negative breast cancer: as a single agent for adults with unresectable locally advanced or metastatic TNBC who are not candidates for PD-1 or PD-L1 inhibitor-based therapy supported by ASCENT-0, and in combination with pembrolizumab for adults whose tumors express PD-L1 with a CPS of 10 or greater supported by ASCENT-04. Janice's speculation in this episode about how PD-L1 status might factor into the guidelines has since been answered by the label.ASCENT-04/KEYNOTE-D19 NCT05382286 was a phase 3, open-label, randomized trial of 443 patients with previously untreated locally advanced unresectable or metastatic TNBC whose tumors expressed PD-L1 at a CPS of 10 or greater by the 22C3 assay. Participants were randomized 1:1 to sacituzumab govitecan plus pembrolizumab or to physician's choice of chemotherapy plus pembrolizumab. Patients in the control arm with centrally confirmed progression were offered crossover to sacituzumab govitecan.0:00 Live from the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium0:30 The METAvivor ribbon and what the pink ribbon leaves out1:35 Diagnosed in 2016 with a median overall survival of 9 to 15 months2:26 Nine years later3:20 From pediatric nursing to research advocacy4:30 What has changed since 2017, and what has not5:26 2011: when chemotherapy was the only option5:55 On not knowing a relevant clinical trial existed6:47 Why metastatic TNBC still has no maintenance therapy7:25 What first-line treatment looks like today8:25 Inside ASCENT-049:09 Progression-free survival, defined9:59 Why a double-digit PFS is notable in this subtype11:20 Why each subsequent line of treatment works for less time11:52 How many patients never reach second line12:50 The case for a stronger first-line option13:21 Crossover design, and why it matters to patients14:33 What crossover means in a randomized trial15:56 Patient advocates in clinical trial design18:59 Quality of life versus quantity of life21:48 Rapid fire: metastatic breast cancer and metastatic TNBC23:06 Rapid fire: first line, second line, progression-free survival24:00 Rapid fire: immunotherapy and antibody-drug conjugates24:59 Advice for the newly diagnosed26:04 What she wants next: a biomarker26:52 On ADCs, tolerability, and the need for novel targetsJanice Cowden, RN is a research patient advocate living with metastatic triple-negative breast cancer. She practiced as a registered nurse for approximately 22 years, primarily in pediatrics, and later worked as a pharmaceutical sales representative. She was diagnosed with stage I triple-negative breast cancer in 2011 and with metastatic disease in 2016, and completed the Living Beyond Breast Cancer advocacy training program in 2017.This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice.

Researchers studying lung cancer draw on more than 800 cell lines as a scientific baseline. Not one of them came from a Hispanic/Latin(x), American Indian/Alaska Native, or Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander patient, and only about 3% are from Black patients. Eugene Manley Jr., PhD is a biomedical research scientist, mechanical engineer, patient advocate, and the Founder and CEO of the STEMM & Cancer Health Equity (SCHEQ) Foundation in New York City. Before founding SCHEQ, he served as Director of STEM Workforce Initiatives at LUNGevity. He also co-authored the review in Frontiers in Oncology that uncovered the patient mix and cataloged the lung cancer cell lines available to researchers worldwide. In this episode, he and host Samira Daswani trace a problem most conversations about clinical trial diversity never reach. The underrepresentation does not begin at enrollment. It begins upstream, in the cell lines, reference genomes, and funding decisions that shape what science gets done at all. Dr. Manley’s review found 390 lung cancer cell lines from Asian patients and nearly 200 from White patients, but only 31 from Black patients and none at all from three other groups. When the input material is not representative, no amount of downstream clinical trial recruitment can fix it. The conversation covers: Why cell lines and reference genomes are the real starting point for drug development What the 2023 Frontiers in Oncology review found, and what it means for who a drug is designed to work on How funding decisions shape which questions researchers can even ask Why patients enroll in trials at much higher rates when someone simply asks What to request at diagnosis, including biomarker testing, ideally NGS, and a patient or nurse navigator How to read your own chart, advocate for accuracy, and document discrepancies while you are still in the hospital What Dr. Manley learned about advocating for himself while on Medicaid CHAPTERS 00:00 The bias does not start at the clinical trial 00:23 Meet Dr. Eugene Manley Jr., PhD 01:15 Detroit roots, chronic asthma, and the road into science 02:31 Why a bench scientist became a patient advocate 03:26 Experiencing medical racism as a patient 05:24 Finding your voice when the system is not listening 07:08 "Alert and oriented": how three words shape your care 08:10 Bring a proxy and read your chart in real time 10:47 When the chart becomes fact: correcting your record 11:20 Why oncology trials still are not representative 12:46 It is not the trial, it is the whole system 13:13 The cell line gap: what the lab starts with 14:39 Where the bias actually begins: basic science 15:44 Breast cancer outcomes: biology, not just zip code 16:28 Reference genomes and databases skew European 17:10 Why he founded the SCHEQ Foundation 20:02 Newly diagnosed: biomarker testing and navigation 21:19 When a clinical trial should be offered to you 22:56 How to start the trial conversation with your team 23:53 Inside the SCHEQ Foundation's work 25:18 Closing thoughts Dr. Eugene Manley, Jr., PhD, MS, is a biomedical scientist-turned-social impact leader and Founder & CEO of the STEMM & Cancer Health Equity (SCHEQ) Foundation. With more than 20 years of experience spanning molecular biology, cancer research, nonprofit strategy, workforce development, and health equity, he has held leadership roles with organizations including AACR, LCRF, and LUNGevity Foundation. Through SCHEQ, Dr. Manley advances STEMM workforce diversity and patient-centered cancer solutions, with a focus on improving access to screening, biomarker testing, clinical trials, and survivorship resources for underserved communities. 🔗 Connect with Patient From Hell Website: https://www.mantacares.com Disclaimer This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding diagnosis, treatment, or medical decisions.

This episode is sponsored by Gilead Sciences. Gilead had no involvement or input in the podcast content. Gilead is working to transform how cancer is treated. We are innovating with next-generation therapies, combinations, and technologies to deliver improved outcomes for people with cancer. From antibody drug conjugates and small molecules to cell therapy-based approaches, our portfolio and pipeline assets are creating new possibilities for people with cancer. Dr. Sara Tolaney, Chief of the Division of Breast Oncology at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, returns to Patient From Hell to explain the ASCENT-04/KEYNOTE-D19 study, the phase 3 trial she led as principal investigator, and what it changes for people living with metastatic triple-negative breast cancer.For years, the most effective drugs for metastatic TNBC were only available after first-line chemotherapy had already failed. The problem, as Dr. Tolaney puts it plainly, is that many patients never reach a second line of treatment at all. ASCENT-04 asked whether moving an antibody-drug conjugate to the front, paired with immunotherapy, would change that. Median progression-free survival improved from 7.8 months to 11.2 months, and treatment responses lasted significantly longer. UPDATE: Since this recorded conversation, the FDA has acted on the data discussed in this episode. On May 22, 2026, Datopotamab Deruxtecan was approved for first-line metastatic TNBC in patients who are not candidates for immunotherapy. On June 24, 2026, Sacituzumab Govitecan was approved for first-line use both as a single agent and in combination with pembrolizumab for PD-L1-positive disease (CPS ≥10). Consult with your care team for the most recent indications and availability of these treatment options. 00:00 The trial that moves the best drugs first 00:31 Welcome back, Dr. Sara Tolaney 00:40 What ASCENT-04 set out to solve 02:00 Why many patients never reach second-line treatment 02:50 What PD-L1 status means for your treatment 04:12 The result: 7.8 to 11.2 months 05:29 What is an antibody-drug conjugate (ADC)? 06:33 Why TROP-2 is the target in triple-negative breast cancer 07:24 How immunotherapy works: taking the brakes off the T cell 09:01 Who was eligible for the trial 10:05 What "controlling" cancer actually means 11:44 Progression-free survival vs. duration of response 13:37 Dr. Tolaney reconsiders: what ASCENT-03 showed 15:51 How trial data reaches your oncologist's office 18:21 The testing checklist after a metastatic diagnosis 19:59 First-line treatment options today 22:27 The new paradigm: ADCs as the first-line backbone 23:51 What comes second line 25:29 Why tumor sequencing matters: somatic BRCA, TMB, trials 27:24 Twenty years of change in triple-negative breast cancer 29:28 Advice for a newly diagnosed patient Sara M. Tolaney, MD, MPH is Chief of the Division of Breast Oncology and Associate Director of the Susan F. Smith Center for Women's Cancers at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, and Associate Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School. She trained at Princeton University, UC San Francisco, Johns Hopkins University, and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, and holds a Masters in Public Health (MPH) from Harvard University. She serves on the National Cancer Institute (NCI) Breast Cancer Steering Committee and is Vice Chair for Late-Stage Development in Breast Cancer for the Alliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology. She was principal investigator of ASCENT-04. 🔗 Connect with Patient From Hell Website: https://www.mantacares.com Disclaimer This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding diagnosis, treatment, or medical decisions.

Shira Boehler's family is full of doctors, and every one of them told her not to get the full-body MRI. She canceled the appointment repeatedly herself, until her husband rebooked it one time too many and she finally went. The scan found a 3.8 centimeter mass in her right lung and labeled it a minor finding, with a note to correlate with symptoms. She had none. She was running six miles a day, the picture of health, and had never smoked. A follow-up CT months later showed the mass had grown, and on the Monday she walked into a pulmonary specialist's office she was told she had an invasive adenocarcinoma. She told him it was probably an EMR error. One week later, surgeons removed half her right lung to treat her cancer. Samira Daswani, host of Patient from Hell and founder of Manta Cares, welcomes lung cancer survivor and bestselling author Shira Boehler for an eye-opening conversation on the part that comes after the story, which is why almost nobody in Shira's position gets caught this early. Screening guidelines currently cover people over 50 with a twenty-pack-per-year smoking history, and fewer than one in five of them actually get scanned, in part because the criteria require disclosing something patients are ashamed of. Shira has been working the problem from both ends since her treatment, negotiating cash prices at imaging centers down to a fraction of what she paid and funding new scans for people who can't cover them through the nonprofit organization she founded, Cancer Doesn't Care. In this episode, Samira and Shira discuss: Why lung cancer is often diagnosed too late The importance of early detection and low-dose CT screening How people who have never smoked can still develop lung cancer The stigma surrounding lung cancer diagnosis Current lung cancer screening guidelines Insurance coverage, healthcare access, policy reform How artificial intelligence may improve cancer screening Why patient advocacy is becoming increasingly important in modern healthcare Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:00 The Full-Body Scan That Changed Everything 03:32 Diagnosed With Lung Cancer Despite Having No Symptoms 05:30 Access, Privilege & Why Early Detection Isn't Equal 07:10 Building the Cancer Doesn't Care Foundation 09:21 Why Lung Cancer Screening Needs to Change 10:19 Breaking the Stigma Around Lung Cancer 12:26 Who Actually Qualifies for Screening? 14:23 Changing Public Perception Through Advocacy 16:20 Why Patients Must Advocate for Themselves 17:15 AI, False Positives & the Future of Cancer Screening 20:27 Why Lung Cancer Is Often Diagnosed Too Late 21:17 Stage 1 vs. Stage 4 Survival Rates 23:25 Shira's Advice for Anyone Considering Lung Cancer Screening Shira Kupperman Boehler is a finance professional, health advocate, bestselling author, and lung cancer survivor. Shira holds a degree in Molecular and Cell Biology from the University of California, Berkeley, and an MBA from New York University’s Stern School of Business. Alongside her husband Adam, she has spent her career building and scaling multibillion-dollar healthcare businesses, developing deep relationships across health systems, payers, and policymakers. After being unexpectedly diagnosed with Stage 1B lung adenocarcinoma despite never smoking and having no symptoms, Shira founded Cancer Doesn't Care, a nonprofit dedicated to expanding access to life-saving lung cancer screening and reducing financial barriers to early detection. She is also the author of the bestselling memoir One Scan Saved My Life , with proceeds supporting patient screening initiatives. 🔗 Connect with Patient From Hell Website: https://www.mantacares.com Disclaimer This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding diagnosis, treatment, or medical decisions.

This episode is dedicated to Natalie's memory and to every patient navigating life with cancer. Natalie Brown's answer to "How are you?" was always simple: "I'm here." Diagnosed with stage 4 non-small cell lung cancer at just 33 years old , despite never smoking and having no family history of lung cancer, Natalie spent six years challenging assumptions about what lung cancer looks like. In this unforgettable conversation with host Samira Daswani , Natalie shares her journey through multiple rounds of chemotherapy, immunotherapy, failed clinical trials, and one of the rarest procedures in cancer medicine a bilateral double lung transplant. She also opens up about recurrence, chronic pain, advocacy, mental health, and why she believed every patient deserves to know all of their treatment options. Natalie has passed away. We are honored to share her story again in celebration of the courage, honesty, humor, and determination that defined her life. Her voice continues to educate, inspire, and advocate for patients everywhere. Whether you're living with cancer, supporting someone who is, or simply want to better understand the realities of serious illness, Natalie's message is one everyone should hear. In this episode you'll learn: What it's like to be diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer at age 33 Why non-smokers can develop lung cancer How a rare double lung transplant became a treatment option The emotional reality of cancer recurrence Clinical trials, targeted therapies, and asking "What's next?" The importance of patient advocacy and second opinions How friends, family, therapy, and hope helped Natalie keep fighting Why "Anyone with lungs can get lung cancer" Natalie's story reminds us that resilience isn't about pretending things aren't difficult—it's about continuing to move forward anyway. 00:00 Introduction: Remembering Natalie Brown 01:00 "I'm Here" — The phrase that defined Natalie 02:00 Diagnosed with Stage 4 Lung Cancer at 33 04:00 Four Chemotherapies & Failed Clinical Trials 05:30 Discovering a Rare Double Lung Transplant 10:40 Returning Home After Transplant 11:45 Cancer Recurrence & New Treatment Options 13:00 The Husband Who Helped Her Keep Fighting 16:00 Facing Mortality with Honesty 18:00 Making the Most of Time 20:00 Living with Chronic Pain 21:00 Becoming a Lung Cancer Advocate 24:00 Learning to Ask for Help 26:45 Advice for Newly Diagnosed Patients 28:40 "Anyone With Lungs Can Get Lung Cancer" 29:45 Why Patients Should Always Ask Questions 31:00 Final Reflections About Patient From Hell Patient From Hell is hosted by cancer survivor and founder Samira Daswani, who asks the questions most patients are too overwhelmed or too afraid to ask. The show brings together doctors, researchers, advocates, and survivors to reveal evidence-based answers for patients navigating the chaos of cancer. 🔔 Connect & Follow Samira Daswani LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samiradaswani/ Manta Cares: https://www.mantacares.com Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user's own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have, and should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such conditions.

Tim McDonald was sitting down for Thanksgiving dinner in 2020 when the pain started. A few days later, a doctor handed him a single sheet of paper and said three words nobody wants to hear: "You have cancer." Stage 4 colorectal cancer. Liver covered in tumors. A second oncologist told him he had three years to live and she'd focus on "quality of life." His response? "That's your story. Not mine." In this episode, Tim shares how over a decade of mindfulness practice shaped the way he faced one of the hardest diagnoses a person can receive and how he went from following doctors' orders to becoming the general manager of his own care team, ultimately pursuing a liver transplant at a time when fewer than 20 people in the US had received one for colorectal cancer. This conversation goes deep on: → What it actually feels like to hear "you have cancer" and stay calm → Why getting a second (and third, and tenth) opinion saved his life → The player → quarterback → general manager framework for owning your treatment → Men, vulnerability, and why cancer support groups changed everything → The dark thought he had toward the end of chemo — and what pulled him back → Why survivorship was mentally harder than treatment itself → How advocacy work became part of his healingIf you or someone you love is navigating a cancer diagnosis, this episode is essential listening. ─────────────────────────── 🔔 Subscribe for weekly conversations with patients, advocates, and caregivers navigating the healthcare system. ─────────────────────────── CHAPTERS 00:00 – The mindset that got him through 00:29 – Meet Tim McDonald 01:17 – Thanksgiving diagnosis 02:44 – Hearing "you have cancer" — and staying calm 04:51 – Life before cancer: HuffPost, Arianna Huffington, and mindfulness 06:04 – What mindfulness actually gave him during treatment 07:14 – Starting standard treatment and meeting a new oncologist 09:38 – "That's your story. Not mine." 10:20 – Switching to Moffitt Cancer Center 11:53 – Discovering the liver transplant option 13:22 – Stage 4 colorectal cancer explained 17:49 – Going from patient to general manager of your care team 21:26 – The proctologist nobody thought to send him to 23:21 – Why you should always get a second opinion 24:46 – Men and cancer: processing emotions differently 26:18 – Vulnerability and who to open up to 29:02 – The dark thought: wanting to stop treatment entirely 30:52 – What pulled him back from the edge 31:39 – Survivorship: why after treatment can be harder 34:11 – 10 doctors after, 3 before: the survivorship reality ─────────────────────────── GUEST Tim McDonald: Stage 4 colorectal cancer survivor, liver transplant recipient, patient advocate, and community builder. Former Director of Community at HuffPost. ─────────────────────────── ABOUT THE PATIENT FROM HELL Patient From Hell is a podcast about navigating the healthcare system with confidence, curiosity, and zero apologies. Hosted by Samira Daswani, CEO and founder of Manta Cares. #CancerSurvivor #ColorectalCancer #PatientAdvocacy #Stagefour #LiverTransplant #CancerMindset #ChemoSideEffects #PatientFromHell #MantaCares #CancerPodcast

When Marybeth Gilliam was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer, she did what her years as a healthcare researcher had trained her to do: she went looking for the evidence. What she found was a gap between a growing body of peer-reviewed research pointing to strategies that can improve outcomes, and the fact that most of it never reached patients because it hadn't yet become standard of care.In this episode of Patient From Hell, host Samira Daswani sits down with Marybeth, founder of Outperform Cancer, to talk about how she is working to close that gap. She translates overlooked, peer-reviewed findings into steps patients can actually take, always paired with standard treatment rather than in place of it. Exercise, nutrition, and sleep are part of it, and so is asking sharper questions about biomarker testing, weighing well-supported off-label options, and refusing to take no for an answer when the data is strong.She shares her own story, the research that reshaped her thinking, and a practical case for taking an active role in your care when the first treatment decisions matter most.In this episode:Why she founded Outperform Cancer to close the gap between research and the clinicHow she pairs evidence-based strategies with standard treatment, not instead of itBiomarker testing and advocating for off-label options backed by solid trials (PATINA, MA.32)What being your own advocate actually looks like in the exam roomThis podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The opinions of the speakers are their own. CHAPTERS 00:00 The overlooked risk factor after childbirth 00:39 Meet Marybeth Gilliam 00:53 Why she founded Outperform Cancer 02:15 The cancer care information gap 02:20 The exercise discovery that changed everything 04:14 Her metastatic breast cancer diagnosis 06:11 Looking back at her 2007 Stage 0 diagnosis 07:16 Postpartum breast cancer and recurrence risk10:36 Building an anti-cancer strategy 13:58 From metastatic diagnosis to NED 15:48 Exercise, sleep, nutrition, and lifestyle changes18:24 Creating an anti-cancer environment20:03 The PATINA trial explained 23:24 Accessing promising therapies before standard of care 25:46 How patients can advocate for themselves 27:51 The 15-year research-to-practice gap 28:45 Precision medicine and biomarker testing 30:42 The ATM gene and metformin research 32:08 Stacking interventions: what does the evidence say? 33:08 Balancing risk, reward, and patient choice 35:24 Lessons from cancer innovators and patient-led research 37:00 Final thoughts and takeaways Follow Patient From Hell for more conversations on cancer, survivorship, patient advocacy, research breakthroughs, and navigating healthcare with confidence. Understanding postpartum breast cancer risks is critical. Learn why a diagnosis within 10 years of childbirth changes prognosis. Many patients do not realize that postpartum breast cancer is defined as a diagnosis within 10 years of having children. This video explains the medical reasoning behind why these patients face a significantly higher likelihood of recurrence compared to other groups. We specifically look at the data showing that even stage one patients are three times more prone to metastasis during this specific window.

Welcome to the Patient from Hell podcast! Live from ASCO 2026, we explore breakthroughs in clinical oncology, cancer research, AI healthcare tools, and targeted therapy for advanced cancer. Samira Daswani, Founder and CEO of Manta Cares and host of The Patient From Hell, sits down with Dr. Doug Blayney, Chief Medical Officer of Manta Cares and former ASCO President, for a candid debrief in between sessions at the 2026 ASCO Annual Meeting in Chicago. With 45,000 oncology professionals in attendance, ASCO is the largest gathering of cancer researchers and clinicians in the world. In this episode, Samira and Dr. Blayney break down what actually mattered: the clinical findings, the shifting treatment landscape, and what the research trends mean for patients navigating cancer today. This episode is for oncologists, cancer researchers, and anyone who wants to understand where the field is heading. Topics covered, with more to come in our next episode: Key clinical findings from ASCO 2026 Trends shaping experimental and clinical oncology What high attendance and collaboration signals for the future of cancer research What patients should know coming out of this year's conference CHAPTERS:0:00 - ASCO 2026 Annual Meeting Live from Chicago0:27 - Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Oncology & Patient Experience1:19 - Healthcare AI Challenges: Misinformation & Clinician Deskilling2:03 - Pancreatic Cancer Breakthrough: New RAS/KRAS Targeted Therapy2:30 - Lung Cancer Advancements: ALK Mutations & PD-L1 Data3:01 - Breast Cancer Innovation: Oral SERDs & ESR1 Biomarkers3:41 - Next Episode Preview & Wrap Up Subscribe for frequent breakdowns of cancer research, treatment news, patient stories, and guidance and support for people in treatment for cancer. Drop a comment with the topics or trials you want us to cover next!

What happens when a medical doctor trained in oncology becomes the cancer patient and then transforms into a primary caregiver for his own father? In this moving continuation of our conversation with clinician, survivor, and care partner Dr. Achim, we dive into the profound emotional architecture of navigating a cancer diagnosis. Dr. Achim opens up about the vast difference between his first experience as a helpless care partner for his father’s prostate cancer in 2010, and his recent role guiding his 85-year-old father through aggressive lymphoma and groundbreaking CAR T-cell therapy.Samira and Dr. Achim explore a topic rarely discussed openly in the oncology world: the long, arduous journey of rebuilding trust in your body after it feels like it has completely betrayed you. Dr. Achim shares how shifting from anger to radical self-love and mastering the art of strict presence—learning to live purely in the current moment—became his ultimate armor against the paralyzing fear of cancer recurrence. Whether you are a patient looking for tools to manage treatment intervals, a male patient looking for permission to voice your fears, or a caregiver trying to balance medical advocacy with emotional support, this episode offers an essential roadmap for finding steady footing when your world is turned upside down.Chapter Codes: 00:00 Grounding in the Present Moment 00:44 Dr. Achim's Transition From Patient to Caregiver 02:15 The Reality of Being a Cancer Care Partner 06:46 Navigating Aggressive Lymphoma & CAR T-Cell Therapy 09:57 Healing the Feeling of "Body Betrayal" 13:49 Mind-Body Visualizations During the Treatment Time Gap 15:36 Overcoming the Fear of Cancer Recurrence 19:33 Mental Health Stigmas for Male Cancer Patients 25:25 Life with No Evidence of Disease (NED)Key Takeaways from This Episode:The Caregiver Shift: Why true caregiving isn't about having all the answers or trying to "fix" the disease; it is about steady, radical presence and holding a hand through the confusion.The "Betrayal" of the Body:Understanding the mental shift required to stop treating your body like an enemy and realizing that it is still actively fighting for you.The Power of Visualizations:How Dr. Achim used a 5-day Carl Simonton method seminar to train his mind during the critical "time gap" between diagnosis and treatment.Connect with Manta Cares & Patient from Hell:Learn more about our mission: Manta Cares WebsiteDiscover your personal cancer roadmap: Patient from Hell Podcast HubSubscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube!Disclaimer: This podcast, show notes, and newsletter are for general informational purposes only and do not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. The use of information on this podcast or any materials linked from it is at the user's own risk. The opinions of the speakers are their own and do not represent the organizations they are affiliated with, nor do they reflect the opinions of Manta Cares Inc. or its sponsors.

"I knew the diagnosis, the prognosis, and the five-year survival rates. And for the first time, knowing more didn't help, it made it worse." In this powerful episode of The Patient From Hell , host Samira sits down with Dr. Achim Zinggrebe , a German physician and pharmaceutical oncology expert who found himself on the other side of the stethoscope. After years of treating cancer and developing oncology drugs, Dr. Achim discovered fist-sized lymph nodes on his own MRI, leading to a diagnosis of advanced lymphoma with a 1-to-2-year survival outlook. Dr. Achim shares a raw, clinical, and deeply personal look at the "curse of knowledge" that comes when a doctor becomes the patient. We dive into the "mirror moment" that changed his trajectory, the scientific proof behind integrative therapies like meditation, and why the current medical system often fails to address the "mind and soul" of the person behind the pathology. In this episode, we discuss: The surreal experience of reading your own terminal cancer scans. Why "Dr. Google" is a universal trap, even for medical experts. The transition from conventional oncology to an integrative "Body, Mind, and Soul" approach. The "Mirror Moment": How to start fighting for yourself instead of everyone else. Crucial advice for clinicians on empathy, silence, and treating the human, not just the lab results. Guest Bio: Dr. Achim Zinggrebe is a physician, cancer survivor, and family member of a cancer patient. He works at the intersection of medicine, lived experience, and human reality. Having seen cancer from all three perspectives, his work focuses on helping people find clarity, inner stability, and direction in a time that often feels uncertain. He is the author of Rise and Thrive Above Cancer and the Rise and Thrive Journal , and the creator of a structured pathway that supports people during and beyond treatment in a grounded and honest way. Dr. Achim Zinggrebe joins us from Southern Germany to share how he transformed a devastating prognosis into a mission to provide a "shortcut" for other patients through his upcoming book and advocacy. Chapter Codes 00:00 - The MRI That Changed Everything 00:44 - Introducing Dr. Achim: Physician, Survivor, & Caregiver 02:02 - From Paramedic to Oncology: A Career Built on Helping 04:01 - The Diagnosis: Advanced Lymphoma 05:30 - Ignoring the Signs: Why We Put Ourselves Last 06:07 - The Curse of Knowledge: Why Knowing the Survival Rates is a Burden 08:04 - Seeking Hope in a 2-Year Prognosis 10:49 - What Medical School Never Taught Me About Being a Patient 12:37 - The Missing Piece in Oncology: Body, Mind, and Soul 15:12 - The Mirror Moment: Redefining the Role of Medicine 18:30 - Rebuilding Your Identity After a Diagnosis 22:51 - The Science of Integrative Medicine & Meditation 26:53 - Advice to Clinicians: Listen More, Talk Less 28:47 - The System vs. The Human Being Support the Podcast:If you found this story inspiring, please Like, Subscribe, and hit the Notification Bell. Sharing these stories helps break the stigma surrounding lung cancer and provides a community for those in the fight.#LungCancer #PatientStories #DoubleLungTransplant #CancerAdvocacy #PatientFromHell #ManticareDisclaimer:This podcast, show notes, and newsletter are for general informational purposes only and do not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice; no doctor-patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or any materials linked from this blog is at the user's own risk. The opinions of the speakers are their own and do not represent the opinions of organizations they are affiliated with, nor do they reflect the opinions of Manta Cares Inc. or Manta Cares' sponsors.

Why are you still so tired? If you’ve finished treatment but your energy hasn't returned, you aren't alone. In this episode, host Samira sits down with Naturopathic Doctor and author Dr. Jessa Landmann to dive deep into the world of Integrative Oncology. We move past the "war" metaphors to discuss a concept Dr. Landmann calls "Respecting Cancer." We explore why cancer-related fatigue is fundamentally different from being "just tired" and look at evidence-based tools—from iron infusions to aromatherapy—that can help you feel like yourself again.Plus, we’re doing some serious myth-busting on the topics currently blowing up your social media feeds: sugar, high-dose Vitamin C, and the latest trends in antiparasitics. 📘 GET THE BOOK: Grab Dr. Landmann’s new book on cancer-related fatigue at Wiley Publishing. Use Code: PFH20 for 20% off! TIMESTAMP CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Introduction: Vitamin C Myths 00:47 - Dr. Landman’s Journey: From High School to Naturopathy 03:23 - Defining Integrative Oncology vs. Complementary Medicine 05:29 - The Difference Between Palliative Care & Integrative Oncology 07:30 - What exactly is Cancer-Related Fatigue? 11:49 - Finding the Root Cause: Anemia, Thyroid, and Sleep 16:38 - When Oral Supplements Aren't Enough: The Case for Iron IVs 18:00 - Surprising Research: Aromatherapy & Tapping (EFT) for Pain 20:03 - How to Spot "Fringe" Science vs. Evidence-Based Care 24:55 - Myth-Busting: High Dose Vitamin C as an Alternative? 26:36 - The Truth About Sugar, Insulin, and Recurrence 29:07 - Alcohol and Cancer: What the Research Actually Says 30:23 - The "Antiparasitic" Trend on Social Media 32:06 - Why We Need to "Respect Cancer" 33:48 - Where to Find the Book & Special Discount Code Summary: "Just be thankful you're alive." For many cancer survivors, this sentiment from the medical community isn't enough when they are too exhausted to work, volunteer, or enjoy their hobbies. Host Samira welcomes Dr. Jessa Landmann, an expert in integrative oncology with 15 years of experience, to discuss the "pervasive and crushing" reality of cancer-related fatigue. In this episode, we cover: The "Marriage" of Medicine: How integrative oncology works alongside conventional treatments like chemo and radiation to improve quality of life. The Fatigue Framework: Why cancer-related fatigue isn’t fixed by a weekend of rest and how to identify correctable causes like iron deficiency or sleep apnea. Evidence-Based "Woo": Dr. Landman shares the surprising clinical data behind aromatherapy and Tapping (EFT).Hard Truths: A no-nonsense look at sugar, alcohol, and the dangers of following "cancer influencers" over peer-reviewed research. Guest Bio: Dr. Jessa Landmann is a Naturopathic Doctor specializing in integrative oncology. With nearly 15 years in clinical practice, Dr. Landmann’s work is rooted in the belief that quality of life is just as important as the treatment itself. Her path was inspired by her mother’s 30-year cancer survivorship journey, leading her to write her latest self-help book focused on helping patients navigate and overcome cancer-related exhaustion. Special Offer:Dr. Landmann is offering The Patient From Hell community a 20% discount on her new book through Wiley Publishing.

For more patient resources and advocacy, visit Manta Cares at mantacares.com . In this episode, we hear a compelling story of a patient's journey through a severe cough and the subsequent rib pain. She discusses undergoing standard cancer treatment and participating in clinical trials, highlighting the direct impact of medical research on her health. Her current regimen includes a targeted pill for lung disease, which is not yet widely approved, showcasing the cutting-edge efforts in treating challenging conditions and managing side effects. Episode Chapters 00:00 - The Reality of "Cracking Your Ribs" from Coughing 00:32 - Meet Natalie Brown: Lung Cancer Advocate 01:23 - Symptoms & Diagnosis: Stage 4 at Age 33 03:07 - No Biomarkers: Navigating Non-Targetable Lung Cancer 03:40 - Becoming "An Experiment": Clinical Trials & Transplant 04:21 - What is a Double Lung Transplant? Risks & Process 05:52 - The Surgeon’s Honest Assessment: "Your Lungs are Trash" 07:42 - Choosing Surgery Over Trials: The Decision-Making Process 08:40 - The Role of Support: Husband, Family, and Finances 09:18 - The One-Year Recovery in Chicago: Pain & Mobility 11:37 - Life After Transplant: Recurrence in the Spine 12:48 - Mental Health: Therapy and the "48-Hour Rule" 16:12 - Facing Mortality: Finding Freedom in the Conversation 18:02 - What Time Means Now: The Monthly Beach Dream20:10 - Managing Chronic Pain & The Art of the "Doom Scroll" 21:05 - Advocacy: Breaking the Stigma of "Smoker's Disease" 23:17 - The Dichotomy: Being Active vs. Asking for Help 26:30 - Rapid Fire Advice for the Newly Diagnosed 28:53 - If You Have Lungs, You Are at Risk 29:46 - Closing Thoughts & Medical About Our Guest: Natalie Brown is an advocate and speaker from Atlanta, Georgia. In 2020, she was diagnosed with stage 4 non-small cell lung cancer. She is also a bilateral lung transplant recipient. Since her diagnosis, Natalie has been dedicated to advocating for and educating others about lung cancer and the impact it has on patients and families. Natalie has a strong background in building meaningful relationships and collaborating with nonprofit organizations and groups within the tech community. In her spare time, Natalie enjoys traveling, spending quality time with family and friends, and relaxing with her dog Hershey. Support the Podcast: If you found this story inspiring, please Like, Subscribe, and hit the Notification Bell. Sharing these stories helps break the stigma surrounding lung cancer and provides a community for those in the fight. #LungCancer #PatientStories #DoubleLungTransplant #CancerAdvocacy #PatientFromHell #Manticare Disclaimer: This podcast, show notes, and newsletter are for general informational purposes only and do not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice; no doctor-patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or any materials linked from this blog is at the user's own risk. The opinions of the speakers are their own and do not represent the opinions of organizations they are affiliated with, nor do they reflect the opinions of Manta Cares Inc. or Manta Cares' sponsors.

"Don't rush the process." In this episode, we sit down with Kim Burket, Executive Director of Goodness Village, to discuss a side of the cancer journey that often goes overlooked: the need for a true home. Goodness Village provides affordable housing in Little Rock, Arkansas, for patients and families traveling for life-saving medical treatment. Kim shares her 20 years of hospitality experience and how she’s applying it to healthcare to ensure families can stay together, cook their own meals, and find a safe haven during their hardest chapters. Whether you are a patient, a caregiver, or a healthcare leader, Kim’s "sage wisdom" on resilience and accepting help is a must-listen. In this episode, we discuss: 🏡 The "Basic" needs that hospitals often miss. 📉 Why rushing your treatment timeline can cause more angst. 🤝 How to find your "champions" and actually accept their help.📊 The massive impact of community-based non-profit housing on patient outcomes. 📍 Timestamps: 00:00 – The #1 piece of advice for patients: Don’t rush the process. 01:13 – What is Goodness Village? A unique model for medical housing. 03:10 – The 30-year history of a grassroots mission. 04:14 – Why a hotel isn't enough when you're fighting cancer. 06:50 – The "Little Things": How 26 apartments provided 6,000+ nights of rest. 10:40 – Gaps in the healthcare system and the power of collaboration. 13:14 – A story of resilience: Keeping a family of five together. 15:25 – Advice for Healthcare CEOs and Hospital Leaders. 18:38 – A checklist for patients traveling for care. About Our Guest: Kim Burket has served as the Executive Director of Goodness Village for 15 years. Under her leadership, the organization transitioned from a church ministry to an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit, growing to provide 26 affordable, fully furnished apartments for patients and families traveling to Little Rock for medical care. Kim lives in Little Rock with her husband Jim, where their younger son is a senior at Little Rock Christian Academy, and their oldest son is attending college in Fayetteville. 🔗 Listen wherever you get your podcasts. 👉 Subscribe and hit the bell to stay updated on future episodes of Patient from Hell. Connect with Us: Enjoyed this episode? Make sure to subscribe, rate, and review! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or Linkedin @MantaCares and visit our website at MantaCares.com for more episodes and updates. Disclaimer: All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only. This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Rich — a leukemia survivor, nurse practitioner, and longtime oncology clinician — to talk about what it’s really like to survive cancer, rebuild your life after treatment, and live with long-term side effects. Rich was diagnosed with leukemia at age 28, underwent an allogeneic stem cell transplant at Dana-Farber / Brigham and Women’s, and is now a 29-year survivor. His experience as both a patient and provider offers a rare, honest look at cancer survivorship, prostate cancer side effects, sexual health, mental health, and post-traumatic growth. In this conversation, we cover: What it’s like to be told you have leukemia in your 20s Stem cell transplant and long-term survival Turning cancer into purpose and becoming an oncology NP Common prostate cancer side effects (urination, bowel changes, erectile dysfunction) How doctors actually manage these symptoms Sexual health after cancer treatment Mental health, grief, and post-traumatic growth How to rebuild your life after active treatment This episode is for patients, survivors, caregivers, and anyone navigating life after a cancer diagnosis. 🎧 Listen on Spotify & Apple Podcasts▶️ Watch more episodes on YouTube 🔔 Subscribe for evidence-based cancer care and survivor stories 00:00 Life gets hard — and it gets better 01:00 Meeting Rich 02:50 Diagnosed with leukemia at 2805:30 Stem cell transplant & early treatment reality 07:20 Complications and emotional toll 08:40 Discovering purpose in oncology care 10:45 From patient to nurse practitioner 13:00 Building virtual survivorship care 16:50 Prostate cancer side effects overview 17:45 Urinary problems after radiation 21:20 Blood in urine & stool — when to worry 23:50 Erectile dysfunction after treatment 26:30 Medications & men’s health options 28:50 Emotional impact of sexual side effects 31:00 Quality of life vs quantity of life 32:10 Post-traumatic growth 33:00 Marriage, fertility, and family after cancer 36:00 Advice for rebuilding life after treatment 38:30 Final thoughts & hope 🔗 Listen wherever you get your podcasts. 👉 Subscribe and hit the bell to stay updated on future episodes of Patient from Hell. Connect with Us: Enjoyed this episode? Make sure to subscribe, rate, and review! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or Linkedin @MantaCares and visit our website at MantaCares.com for more episodes and updates. Disclaimer: All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only. This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Is Artificial Intelligence actually helping cancer patients, or is it just noise? In this episode of The Patient From Hell, Samira sits down with Dr. Shadi Nabhan to separate the Hype from the Reality in 2026. We discuss the massive evolution in oncology—from the "library days" of 1995 to the AI-driven diagnostics of today. Dr. Shadi shares his "Airport Analogy" for navigating a cancer diagnosis, offers a life-changing reframe on how we view advanced disease (it’s not just "curable" vs. "terminal"—it can be "controllable"), and gives his #1 piece of advice for selecting a medical team that will actually show up for you when things get hard. Key Topics Discussed: AI in 2026: How doctors use AI to simplify complex terms like CAR T-cell therapy and why patients need to "trust but verify" AI-generated medical advice. The "Controllable" Reframe: Why treating metastatic cancer like diabetes or hypertension changes the patient experience. Navigating the "Airport": Why the healthcare system feels like being dropped in a foreign airport without a map. Advice for the Industry: What Healthcare Systems and Pharma companies need to change right now regarding clinical trials and drug pricing. About Today’s Guest Dr. Chadi Nabhan: Dr. Chadi Nabhan is a board-certified hematologist, oncologist, and the Chief Medical Officer at Ryght, Inc., where he leads the integration of Generative AI into clinical research to accelerate the delivery of lifesaving therapies. With a career spanning leadership roles at Caris Life Sciences and the University of Chicago, Dr. Nabhan is a prolific researcher with over 300 publications and a prominent author whose work focuses on the intersection of medicine, justice, and technology. AI Visionary: Leading the charge in using AI to optimize clinical trials and patient outcomes. Expert Clinician: Trained at Northwestern and Harvard, with decades of experience in malignant hematology. Renowned Author: Published three books with Johns Hopkins University Press, including The Cancer Journey and the forthcoming AI and Cancer Care (2026). Podcast Host: Voice of the popular weekly series Healthcare Unfiltered. Quotes from the Episode: "We cure more patients than we have ever dreamt of... Women who are affected by breast cancer today are more likely to be completely cured." "Availability is key. Are they going to really pick up the phone and talk to you when you need them?" 00:00 - The reality of the cancer journey (It’s not smooth sailing)01:00 - Intro: Dr. Shadi Nabhan & The Fun Factor 01:25 - AI in Healthcare: Hype, Hope, and Reality 04:15 - How doctors use AI to explain complex therapies 06:38 - Warning for patients using AI: "Garbage in, Garbage out" 08:45 - The Evolution of Medicine: 1995 vs. 2026 13:00 - The "Airport Analogy": Why patients feel lost 17:30 - MUST WATCH: Reframing "Terminal" cancer as "Controllable" 21:30 - Advice for Healthcare Leaders: Agility & Patient Involvement 23:50 - Advice for Pharma: Drug Pricing & Accelerating Innovation 26:00 - The #1 criteria for picking your medical team 28:18 - The importance of Second Opinions 28:50 - What to expect in late 2026: AI in Cancer Care Book 🔗 Listen wherever you get your podcasts. 👉 Subscribe and hit the bell to stay updated on future episodes of Patient from Hell. Connect with Us: Enjoyed this episode? Make sure to subscribe, rate, and review! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or Linkedin @MantaCares and visit our website at MantaCares.com for more episodes and updates. Disclaimer: All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only. This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Cancer survivorship isn’t about “going back to normal.” It’s about rebuilding—on purpose. In this episode of Patient From Hell, host Samira Daswani sits down with Harriet Cabelly, LCSW, a grief therapist and cancer thriver, for a grounded, surprisingly funny, deeply useful conversation on what happens during treatment and in the long tail of survivorship—including fear of recurrence (“scanxiety”), meaning-making, resilience, and the emotional support patients don’t get nearly enough of. Harriet shares the moment she was told she had a mass on multiple organs—and her first response: “Put me in hospice.” From there, we unpack how hope returned, why Viktor Frankl’s work matters in cancer care, and practical mindset tools that help patients and caregivers survive the day-to-day without spiraling into the “20-year forecast. If you’re newly diagnosed, supporting someone you love, or treating patients clinically, this episode delivers real coping skills—without toxic positivity. Chapters / Timestamps 00:00 — “If you have to go through hell, don’t come out empty-handed” 01:09 — Harriet’s diagnosis: Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (large B-cell) and the ER moment 02:45 — “Put me in hospice”: the shock + numbness after the scan 04:41 — How hope returned (faith, timing, and a “flipped verdict”) 07:44 — Why faith and religion can matter in the patient experience 09:03 — “Miracles” during treatment: staying ahead of nausea + the “Vomit Miracle” 11:25 — “Miracle of tolerance”: handling meds when you’ve always had a sensitive system 12:55 — Life before diagnosis: ballroom dancing, family, hiking, private practice 14:56 — Viktor Frankl + Man’s Search for Meaning: choosing attitude, choosing response 18:44 — Positive psychology: building strengths, not denying reality 19:50 — Resilience as a muscle (and how to train it) 20:33 — Gratitude, “WWW: What’s Working Well,” and the donut-hole metaphor 23:05 — The “Power of AND”: holding darkness + light at the same time 26:50 — Shrinking time: one hour, one day, one cycle at a time 29:59 — Fear of recurrence + “scanxiety”: what helps, what gets easier with time 33:51 — Rebuilding after cancer: nutrition, fasting windows, exercise, sugar reduction, circadian walks 35:35 — Mind-body connection + journaling (without pretending it’s all “in your head”) 37:13 — Rapid-fire advice: newly diagnosed, survivorship, long-term treatment, clinicians, pharma 43:10 — Favorite quotes + choosing to “make the best of what happens” 44:00 — Medical disclaimer About the Guest Harriet Cabelly, LCSW is a grief counselor, therapist, speaker, and author dedicated to helping people navigate loss, life transitions, and rebuilding meaning after trauma. A cancer thriver herself, Harriet blends clinical tools with lived experience to help patients and caregivers reclaim purpose, joy, and resilience. Book: Light Through Darkness: Miracles Along My Cancer Journey Referenced: Viktor Frankl — Man’s Search for Meaning Manta Cares: mantacares.com Subscribe to Patient From Hell for evidence-based cancer-care insight, survivorship tools, and the conversations patients wish they’d had sooner. Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider.

Exercise isn’t just “nice to have” during cancer, it can function like treatment for the side effects: fatigue, muscle loss (sarcopenia), joint pain, neuropathy, weakness, and even lymphedema risk reduction. In this episode of Patient from Hell, host + cancer survivor Samira Daswani sits down with Sami (exercise + cancer specialist focused on implementation) to break down what the research is finally confirming and what patients can do today, even with low energy, limited time, or zero equipment.We also unpack the headline-grabbing findings from the CHALLENGE Trial in colorectal cancer: a structured, coached exercise program was associated with a 28% lower risk of recurrence or new primary cancer and raises the bigger question: why isn’t exercise prescribed like medicine? Key takeaways you’ll learn: - Why strength training is the #1 lever for cancer-related fatigue + muscle loss - How to reduce joint pain (including hormone-therapy related joint pain)Simple “wake the nerves up” tactics for neuropathy- Lymphedema: prevention vs management + why early assessment matters - Chemo brain: why “automation” (classes + follow-alongs) can be the hack - The starter protocol: 10–15 minutes, every other day Chapter Codes 00:00 Exercise as “treatment” for cancer side effects (fatigue, sarcopenia, function) 00:30 Meet Sami: implementation theory (how she got into exercise + cancer) 02:37 “How I f***ed up into this” — origin story + early patient experiences 05:20 The headline research: what the CHALLENGE Trial showed 07:19 The big number: 28% lower recurrence/new primary (structured group) 08:40 Trial design: education vs coached/supervised exercise 11:03 Symptom playbook begins: what exercise helps most 11:35 Fatigue: why strength training rebuilds your “engine” 14:09 What counts as strength training (real-world examples) 15:46 Joint pain: lubrication, range of motion, yoga/Tai Chi basics 17:22 Hormone therapy joint pain: why feet + shoulders show up big 20:06 Plantar fasciitis: barefoot time + ball rolling + lifestyle traps 21:47 Neuropathy: “wake the nerves up” + balance + sensation tools 24:29 Lymphedema: prevention vs management + catch it early 28:04 Weakness: mitochondria, estradiol, and fast-twitch strength loss 30:34 Chemo brain: automate workouts so you don’t have to think 33:59 Safety fear: “If chemo didn’t kill you, a squat won’t” (starting smart) 38:33 Where to start: 10–15 minutes every other day 40:17 Two starter moves: sit-to-stands + countertop pushups 41:14 Just diagnosed? Keep routine—lower intensity + prioritize strength 42:25 Wrap + the bigger message: independence, quality of life, green light About Patient From Hell Patient From Hell is hosted by cancer survivor and founder Samira Daswani, who asks the questions most patients are too overwhelmed—or too afraid—to ask. The show brings together doctors, researchers, advocates, and survivors to reveal evidence-based answers for patients navigating the chaos of cancer. Subscribe for episodes that blend science, compassion, and clarity—without the medical jargon. Connect & Follow Samira Daswani LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samiradaswani/ Manta Cares: https://www.mantacares.com Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user's own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have, and should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such conditions.

Up to 90% of breast cancer survivors experience sexual health changes, yet almost no one is talking about it. Today on Patient From Hell, host Samira Daswani sits down with Dr. Laila Agrawal, a leading clinician in oncology sexual health, to break the silence around libido loss, vaginal dryness, pain, body-image shifts, dating after cancer, orgasm changes, pelvic floor dysfunction, and how treatment impacts intimacy. This episode answers the questions patients wish they could ask, but rarely get time for in an oncology appointment. If you've ever wondered: “Is sex safe during treatment?” “Will my desire ever come back?” “Should I use vaginal estrogen?” “What’s normal to feel?” — you’re in the right place. Sexual health concerns in breast cancer are common, treatable, and deeply misunderstood. Dr. Agrawal explains: - Why oncologists often avoid sexual health conversations - The real reason libido drops during and after treatment - The truth about vaginal estrogen and hormone-positive breast cancer - How to talk to a partner when desire shifts - How single women can navigate dating after cancer 🧠 Guest: Dr. Laila Agrawal is a nationally recognized expert in sexual health for oncology patients. She specializes in survivorship care, menopausal symptoms, pelvic health, pain management, and evidence-based approaches to sexual wellness throughout cancer treatment. She is passionate about removing stigma and giving patients the tools, language, and confidence to advocate for their sexual well-being. Chapter Codes 00:00 – Why sexual health is overlooked in oncology 01:45 – How many breast cancer patients struggle with sexual health 03:15 – Why oncologists avoid the sex conversation 05:02 – Biggest myths about sex during/after treatment 06:07 – Low libido: what’s actually happening 08:20 – Responsive desire vs spontaneous desire 09:50 – Vaginal dryness: causes, range, and treatment 12:34 – Moisturizers, hyaluronic acid & home remedies 13:45 – Vaginal estrogen: safety, controversy & guidelines 15:41 – Menopause, hormone shifts & severity of symptoms 17:30 – Pain during intercourse & pelvic floor dysfunction 19:27 – What to do if your cancer center lacks specialists 20:58 – Body image & sexuality after mastectomy 22:57 – Body image vs desire — how they interact 24:42 – When to see a sex therapist vs medical provider 26:29 – Partner communication and relationship impacts 28:10 – How to set boundaries without losing intimacy 29:55 – Dating during or after treatment 31:19 – How treatment affects ability to orgasm 33:28 – Is sexual recovery tied to treatment timing? 34:58 – Should you feel guilty for wanting sex after cancer? 35:40 – Myth busting: sugar, condoms, recurrence risk & more 36:37 – Is sex safe with a chemo port? 37:10 – Best sexual health resources for cancer survivors About Patient From Hell Patient From Hell is hosted by cancer survivor and founder Samira Daswani, who asks the questions most patients are too overwhelmed, or too afraid, to ask. The show brings together doctors, researchers, advocates, and survivors to reveal evidence-based answers for patients navigating the chaos of cancer. Subscribe for episodes that blend science, compassion, and clarity without the medical jargon. 🔔 Connect & Follow Samira Daswani LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samiradaswani/ Manta Cares: https://www.mantacares.com

We're joined by women’s health advocate and author Leslie Ferris Yerger, founder & CEO of My Density Matters. Diagnosed with stage IV breast cancer just two months after a “clear” mammogram and ultrasound, Leslie uncovers how dense breast tissue can hide cancer, why current screening standards fail many women, and what you can do to protect yourself.Leslie’s mission: make sure her story doesn’t become someone else’s. Her nonprofit empowers women to check their breast density, ask the right questions, and push for additional screening when needed. ✅ Listen to learn: What breast density is — and why it matters How dense tissue affects mammogram accuracy When to ask for MRI or advanced imaging Patient advocacy: how and when to push your doctor Real steps you can take today Chapters: 00:00 – Intro & background 01:17 – Clear mammogram → diagnosis journey 05:13 – Why dense breast tissue matters 12:58 – Understanding density categories & reports 18:47 – What to ask your doctor next 22:15 – Insurance, screening access & advocacy 26:54 – Leslie’s takeaways & how to take action Guest Bio: Leslie Ferris Yerger is a Tedx speaker, author of Probably Benign, and a women’s advocate with a laser focused mission. Leslie was diagnosed with Stage IV breast cancer in November 2017 after an ‘all clear’ mammogram and ultrasound, experiencing firsthand the failings of our current breast cancer screening standards. As Founder and CEO of the not-for-profit My Density Matters, Leslie is determined to empower women to find out their breast density, learn their options, and advocate for themselves to get the additional breast cancer screening they need, so that her story doesn’t become their story. Leslie lives in Hawthorn Woods, IL with her husband John. She has 3 grown children: Evan, Julia, and Megan. Resources: My Density Matters → https://mydensitymatters.org/Purchase her book “Probably Benign” → https://probablybenign.com/ Trigger warning: This episode covers breast cancer and screening challenges. If you found this helpful, please like, subscribe, and share this with the women in your life. Your next mammogram might just end up different. #BreastCancer #BreastDensity #WomenHealth #PatientAdvocacy #ScreeningFailure Enjoyed this episode? Make sure to subscribe, rate, and review! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or Linkedin @MantaCares and visit our website at MantaCares.com for more episodes and updates. All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only. This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Dr. Liz O’Riordan — a former breast surgeon turned patient, author and speaker — about what really happens behind the scenes of a cancer diagnosis and treatment. We unpack the full spectrum: from surgery to recurrence, from myths to survival, and the long-term “new” life that follows. Dr O’Riordan brings the rare perspective of having been the doctor and the patient. If you or someone you know is navigating this journey, this conversation provides insight, clarity and hope. Guest Links • Website: http://liz.oriordan.co.uk •Podcast “So Now I’ve Got Breast Cancer” Book: Under The Knife, The Cancer Roadmap, The Complete Guide to Cancer, and more ⏱ Chapter Codes 00:00 – Introduction: Turning surgeon into survivor 02:12 – Why she chose breast surgery & what it taught her 04:17 – My diagnosis: stage 3, mastectomy, radiotherapy & hormone blockers 07:28 – Life after treatment: coping, identity loss & “new” normal 10:53 – Side-effects deep dive: chemo brain, fatigue, mental health 14:39 – Sexual health, body image & life after breast cancer 20:19 – Bone health, exercise & recurrence risk 24:53 – Shared decision making: lumpectomy vs mastectomy 32:37 – Diet myths, sugar & cancer: evidence-based truth 35:10 – Fasting, alternative medicine & what the research really says 42:57 – Life after cancer: “It’s not normal—it’s new” 44:47 – What matters now: strength, confidence & joy 📌 Why You Should WatchDr O’Riordan breaks down complex medical topics into relatable, actionable insights — from fatigue to sexuality, from diet myths to bone health, and from fear of recurrence to finding joy again. Whether you’re newly diagnosed, supporting someone you love, or simply curious about the patient experience — this episode offers clarity, authenticity and real talk. 👉 Subscribe and hit the bell to stay updated on future episodes of Patient from Hell. Connect with Us: Enjoyed this episode? Make sure to subscribe, rate, and review! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or Linkedin @MantaCares and visit our website at MantaCares.com for more episodes and updates. Disclaimer: All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only. This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.