Episodios

  • 064: How High School Students Raised More Than $500,000 for Cancer Research

    064: How High School Students Raised More Than $500,000 for Cancer Research
    Feb 4 2026
    What does it take for high school students to raise more than $500,000 for cancer research? In this episode of Believe in Progress, we meet Suhani Makwana, who turned her teacher's cancer diagnosis into a movement that's funding breakthrough research in blood cancers. You will hear from two extraordinary individuals whose relationship exemplifies the ripple effect of mentorship, resilience, and purpose-driven education. Jena Brodhead was a teacher at Easton Area School District in Easton, Pennsylvania when she was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma in 2013. She made a courageous choice: to turn her diagnosis into an educational opportunity for her students. Working through chemotherapy, she welcomed honest conversations about cancer, easing fear and stigma about the subject. Her transparency laid the foundation for what would become Brodhead's Heroes, a student advocacy team that has raised more than $500,000 for blood cancer research over six years. Suhani Makwana was just a sixth grader when she first met Mrs. Brodhead. Now an undergraduate biology major and Razor's Edge Research Scholar at Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Suhani's path from middle school student to emerging pre-medical student was shaped profoundly by her teacher's cancer journey and the advocacy work it inspired. As a high school junior, Suhani led her team to raise more than $50,000 in a single campaign, earning a research grant for aggressive non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Today, she's pursuing studies in biology with minors in pre-health, research studies, and bioinformatics, while working with organizations like the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society and the Kellen Foundation to advance lifesaving cancer science and medicine. Together, Jena’s and Suhani's stories capture the transformative power of mentorship, the critical role of early exposure to science and research, and how personal experiences with cancer can inspire future careers. Our conversation with them reminds us that advocacy isn't just about raising money; it's about raising voices, building community, and advancing science to benefit real people. Featured Guests: Jena Brodhead - Teacher, Easton Area School District; Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma Survivor; Inspiration for Brodhead's Heroes Suhani Makwana - Undergraduate Student, Nova Southeastern University; Razor's Edge Research Scholar; Student Visionaries of the Year Candidate Key Topics: • How Jena shared her cancer diagnosis openly with students while teaching through chemotherapy • Student Visionaries of the Year Campaign: Brodhead's Heroes raised $500,000+ over six years • Creative fundraising: emails to businesses nationwide, blood drives, bake sales, and the 50 States Challenge • How every contact became an opportunity to educate about cancer research • From Advocacy to Academic Pursuits - Suhani's journey: biology major with minors in pre-health, research studies, and bioinformatics at Nova Southeastern University • Internship with the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society: community health fairs and patient advocacy • Work with the Kellen Foundation on lifestyle medicine and cancer prevention • Future aspirations in hematology-oncology and evidence-informed care • Translating science for patients: explaining complex concepts without sacrificing accuracy • Treating cancer patients as whole people, not just clinical cases • Lifestyle medicine and holistic cancer care approaches • How ketogenic, plant-based, and other diets may impact cancer treatment • Patient stories of dramatic health improvements through dietary changes • The Patient Perspective: Jena's Reflections on living with cancer's long-term effects and choosing doctors who treat the whole person • Mentorship and Early Research Exposure: Why early exposure to advocacy matters and you don't have to wait to make a difference • Community-Centered Progress: How advocacy fuels funding, which drives research, which improves care Take Action in the Fight Against Cancer: If this episode moved you, here's how you can help: • Donate to the AACR: Fuel lifesaving innovation at https://AACR.org/Give • Share this episode: Help amplify the message that mentorship, early exposure to research, and community advocacy can transform lives • Subscribe to Believe in Progress: Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts • Learn about student programs: Visit https://AACR.org to explore high school and undergraduate research opportunities Production Credits: Host: Mitch Stoller Guests: Suhani Makwana; Jena Brodhead Executive Producer: Anthony Lopes Executive Producer: Michael Leary Producer: Mitch Stoller Producer: Heather Holland Director: Anthony Lopes Creative Director / DP: Michael Leary Writer: Anthony Lopes Editor: Michael Leary Believe in Progress is produced by CollegeCast LLC. Check out more episodes: https://AACR.org/BelieveInProgress
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    36 m
  • 063: The Philadelphia Cycling Classic is Back: Eric M. Robbins and Carlos Rogers Share the Revival Story

    063: The Philadelphia Cycling Classic is Back: Eric M. Robbins and Carlos Rogers Share the Revival Story
    Jan 21 2026
    What does it take to revive a beloved Philadelphia tradition after a decade-long hiatus? In this episode of Believe in Progress, a podcast of the AACR Foundation, we sit down with two men who are bringing professional cycling back to the streets of Philadelphia. Part One introduces the grassroots origins of the revival. We meet Carlos Rogers, a local hairstylist and cycling enthusiast who spent three years pitching a vision to bring the race back, and Eric M. Robbins, the business leader who joined forces to turn that vision into reality—the Philadelphia Cycling Classic. They discuss the pivotal moment former Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter joined the team and the emotional weight of earning community trust. Part Two dives into the details of the race itself, scheduled for August 30, 2026. Carlos and Eric walk us through the iconic 14-mile circuit, including the grueling "Manayunk Wall" with its steep grade. They discuss the projected economic impact of more than 100,000 spectators and the race’s identity as "The People’s Race." And then the conversation turns to the heart of the mission: the collaboration with the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) as the charity partner for the race to raise critical funds for lifesaving cancer science and medicine. The AACR Riders for Research participants will cycle the 14-mile course before the professional race begins. Eric also shares the personal story of losing his mother to ovarian cancer in 2004, highlighting how resilience is the driving force behind this Philadelphia comeback story. Featured Guests: Carlos Rogers - Co-Founder, Philadelphia Cycling Classic A Philadelphia native, professional hairstylist, and lifelong cyclist, Carlos is the visionary "spark" behind the initiative. His three-year grassroots campaign and refusal to let the tradition die led to the revival of one of the city's cherished sporting events. Eric M. Robbins - Co-Founder, Philadelphia Cycling Classic Bringing decades of financial and operational leadership, Eric is the strategist ensuring the race's success. Deeply connected to the Philadelphia community, he is driven by a desire to give back to the city and a personal commitment to cancer awareness following the loss of his mother. Key Topics: · The Origin Story: How a hairstylist’s passion project evolved into a major international sporting event · Building the Team: The critical involvement of former Mayor Michael Nutter and the emotional moment he told Carlos, "I believe in you" · The Course: A breakdown of the 14-mile loop, including the Ben Franklin Parkway, Kelly Drive, and the infamous Manayunk Wall · Economic and Community Impact: Projecting more than 100,000 spectators and millions of dollars in economic impact for Philadelphia · Strategic Partnerships: The role of the AACR as the event’s official charity partner · Resilience and Loss: Eric’s personal reflection on his mother’s battle with ovarian cancer and how it shapes his work ethic · The 2026 Vision: Why the race was moved to August 30 and the plans for a multi-day fan festival Take Action to Propel Progress in Cancer Research: If this episode moved you, here’s how you can take action to advance cancer research: · Donate to the AACR: Fuel lifesaving cancer research at https://AACR.org/Give · Share This Episode: Help amplify the message that bold ideas and global collaboration can change the future of cancer care · Team Up with AACR Riders for Research at the 2026 Philadelphia Cycling Classic – AACR Charity Ride: https://AACR.org/PCC · Subscribe to Believe in Progress: Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts · Learn More About the Philadelphia Cycling Classic at https://www.philadelphiacyclingclassic.com/ Production Credits: Host: Mitch Stoller Guests: Eric M. Robbins; Carlos Rogers Executive Producer: Anthony Lopes Executive Producer: Michael Leary Director: Anthony Lopes Creative Director / Director of Photography: Michael Leary Writer: Anthony Lopes Editor: Michael Leary Associate Producer: Heather Holland Check out more episodes: https://AACR.org/BelieveInProgress Believe in Progress is produced by CollegeCast LLC.
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    34 m
  • 062: Resilience, Faith, and Football - The Macri Family’s Journey with Pediatric Brain Cancer

    062: Resilience, Faith, and Football - The Macri Family’s Journey with Pediatric Brain Cancer
    Jan 7 2026
    What happens when a healthy 8-year-old boy begins tripping, falling, and experiencing double vision? For Katie and Nick Macri, and grandparents Tim and Maggie McNiff, these early warning signs led to every family’s worst nightmare: a diagnosis of diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG), a rare and aggressive tumor located in the brainstem. In this emotional episode of Believe in Progress, brought to you by the AACR Foundation, we sit down with the family of John Paul (JP) to discuss their journey through diagnosis and treatment. Part One introduces us to JP and his family. Katie and Nick recount the heartbreaking timeline from subtle symptoms to the harrowing moments of receiving the diagnosis. They discuss the devastating nature of a tumor located in the pons region of the brainstem and the "state of unknowing" that follows such news. We also hear from JP’s grandparents, Tim and Maggie, on dropping everything to support their grandchildren, and how the family navigated difficult conversations with JP’s older brother, Luke. Part Two focuses on the incredible resilience that defines JP’s journey. The family discusses their decision to pursue a clinical trial involving CAR T-cell therapy at Seattle Children’s Hospital to preserve JP's quality of life. The conversation shifts to the power of community—from a neighborhood Nerf war to the James Madison University football team adopting JP as an honorary captain. Finally, Nick and Tim discuss their initiative to accelerate research through the "M3 database," an AI-driven project designed to speed up data sharing for pediatric brain cancer. This is a story about cancer science and a little boy who refuses to let a dire diagnosis define his spirit. Featured Guests Katie and Nick Macri – John Paul’s parents Katie and Nick share their raw and honest experience navigating pediatric cancer, balancing full-time work with cross-country travel for treatment, and relying on their deep faith to carry the burden of the unknown. Tim and Maggie McNiff – John Paul’s grandparents Tim and Maggie offer the perspective of the extended family "village." They discuss the role of grandparents in a crisis and their work to support logistical and scientific initiatives to help their grandson. Key Topics: Part One – The Diagnosis and The Family Unit • Early Warning Signs: Identifying subtle symptoms like redness in eyes, head tilting, and loss of balance • The Diagnosis: Understanding DIPG and the initial prognosis • Sibling Impact: How JP’s older brother Luke is processing the illness and the attention surrounding it • The Power of Vulnerability: Why Nick and Katie chose to be open on CaringBridge rather than keeping the diagnosis private Part Two – Innovation, Community and The "Green Bracelet" Army • CAR T-Cell Therapy: Choosing an innovative clinical trial over traditional chemotherapy to maintain quality of life • The JMU Connection: How the James Madison University football team embraced JP, from the weight room to the coin toss • The M3 Database: Nick and Tim’s effort to use AI and data centralization to help researchers share MRI and genomic data faster • Community Support: How neighbors, colleagues, and strangers lift the family up daily Take Action to Advance Cancer Science and Medicine: If this episode moved you, here’s how you can take action to support families like the Macris: • Donate to the AACR: Fuel lifesaving innovation at https://AACR.org/Give • Check out the inaugural AACR Pediatric Cancer Progress Report, which highlights the advances and challenges in the field, at https://PediatricCancerProgressReport.org • Support additional organizations that advocate for pediatric cancer research, including Tough2gether Foundation • Follow along with JP’s story at CaringBridge • Share this Episode: Help amplify the message that bold ideas and global collaboration can change the future of cancer care • Subscribe to Believe in Progress: Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts Production Credits: Host: Mitch Stoller Guests: Katie Macri, Nick Macri, Tim McNiff, and Maggie McNiff Executive Producer: Anthony Lopes Executive Producer: Michael Leary Director: Anthony Lopes Creative Director / Director of Photography: Michael Leary Writer: Anthony Lopes Editor: Michael Leary Associate Producer: Heather Holland Check out more episodes: https://AACR.org/BelieveInProgress Believe in Progress is produced by CollegeCast LLC.
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    40 m
  • 061: Competing Against Cancer - Pickleball Pro Steve Dawson’s Journey of Resilience

    061: Competing Against Cancer - Pickleball Pro Steve Dawson’s Journey of Resilience
    Dec 17 2025
    What happens when an elite athlete, known for his focus and discipline, faces a life-changing diagnosis? In this episode of Believe in Progress, a podcast of the AACR Foundation, we sit down with Steve Dawson, a titan in the world of pickleball, to discuss his experiences with prostate cancer. Part One: We explore Steve’s initial diagnosis, which came as a shock following a routine physical with no prior symptoms. Steve discusses his decision-making process regarding surgery versus radiation and the "state of unknowing" that accompanies a cancer journey. He discusses how his athletic background prepared him to tackle treatment head-on and the importance of men overcoming the stigma of discussing their health. Part Two: We dive into the intersection of passion and recovery. Steve shares how a cancer recurrence became the catalyst for launching his own paddle company, Aura, and reflects on the unique, supportive nature of the pickleball community. He shares candid, humorous, and vulnerable stories, including winning a bronze medal at the US Open while recovering from surgery, and discusses his "expiration date" philosophy that makes every sunset better and every glass of wine taste a little sweeter. This conversation highlights the importance of early detection, the power of an active lifestyle, and the refusal to let a diagnosis define one’s limits. Featured Guest Steve Dawson - Professional Pickleball Player, Coach, and Entrepreneur A legend in the sport with 18 majors to his name, Steve Dawson is the owner of the Bobby Riggs Racket and Paddle Club and the founder of Aura. He uses his platform to advocate for prostate cancer awareness and emphasizes the critical need for PSA screenings. Key Topics: Part One – The Diagnosis & Mindset - The silent nature of prostate cancer: How a routine physical that found a spike in PSA levels led to Steve’s diagnosis. - Navigating treatment options: The choice between surgery and radiation. - The "state of unknowing": Managing the anxiety of diagnosis and recurrence. - Breaking the silence: Why Steve feels men should talk more openly about cancer and "Man Up to Cancer." - How physical fitness and an athlete’s mentality aided Steve’s recovery from surgery. Part Two – Community, Innovation & Resilience - The pickleball melting pot: How the sport builds a diverse, supportive network for patients. - Turning adversity into action: How a cancer recurrence motivated the founding of his company, Aura. - The bronze medal story: A humorous and gritty look at competing in the US Open immediately post-surgery. - Integrative approaches: Combining Western medicine with Eastern holistic practices (diet, herbs, and stretching). - Reframing the narrative: Viewing cancer survivorship as a tool to appreciate the vibrancy of life. Take Action in the Fight Against Cancer: If this episode moved you, here’s how you can take action to advance cancer research: - Get screened: If you are eligible, talk to your doctor about a PSA test. It could save your life. - Donate to the AACR: Fuel lifesaving innovation at https://AACR.org/Give - Share this episode: Help amplify the message that early detection and community support can change outcomes. - Subscribe to Believe in Progress: Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. Production Credits: Host: Mitch Stoller Guest: Steve Dawson Executive Producer: Anthony Lopes Executive Producer: Michael Leary Director: Anthony Lopes Creative Director / Director of Photography: Michael Leary Writer: Anthony Lopes Editor: Michael Leary Associate Producer: Heather Holland Believe in Progress is produced by CollegeCast LLC. Check out more episodes: https://AACR.org/BelieveInProgress
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    31 m
  • 060: Reimagining Cancer Survivorship and Leading with Heart - Suzanne Stone

    060: Reimagining Cancer Survivorship and Leading with Heart - Suzanne Stone
    Dec 3 2025
    What happens when a life in media, advocacy, and leadership converges on a mission to transform the way we support people with cancer? On this episode of Believe in Progress, the AACR Foundation’s podcast, we hear from Suzanne Stone, an Emmy-winning storyteller, nonprofit champion, and the President and CEO of Livestrong. From television studios to basketball courts to cancer care nonprofits, Suzanne’s career has always centered on lifting others up. In a special full-circle moment, host Mitch Stoller, who served as Livestrong’s President and CEO from 2003 to 2007, talks with Suzanne to discuss the organization's legacy and its future. Suzanne shares the career path that brought her to Livestrong, including how coaching women’s basketball taught her vital lessons about empathy and listening that now inform her leadership style. She explores the organization's evolution, from the decision to bring back the iconic yellow and black branding to the launch of Ellis, a groundbreaking AI companion designed to help cancer survivors navigate their journey. This conversation dives deep into the philosophy of "saving all the starfish," moving beyond individual aid to creating systemic impact at scale. Suzanne outlines how Livestrong is building self-sustaining micro-businesses to ensure that no one faces cancer alone, today or years from now. Featured Guest Suzanne Stone - President and CEO, Livestrong: Leading one of the most recognized names in cancer advocacy, Suzanne is focused on patient-centered solutions, equity, and enduring hope. She discusses how her background in media and coaching prepared her to lead Livestrong into its next chapter, emphasizing the power of community, physical movement, and innovative technology in cancer recovery. Key Topics: • A Legacy of Bravery: How Livestrong has evolved over 28 years while maintaining its core mission to ensure no one faces cancer alone. • From Storytelling to Service: Suzanne’s non-linear career path from TV production to coaching basketball and leading nonprofits like Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) and Susan G. Komen. • Impact at Scale: Reinterpreting the "Starfish Parable" to focus on solving root causes rather than just individual cases. • Innovation in Care: The development of Ellis, an AI-powered guidebook that acts as a closed-loop conversation partner for survivors seeking resources. • The Power of Yellow: The strategic decision to bring back the iconic yellow and black brand identity as a symbol of hope and resilience. • Exercise Oncology: The evolution of Livestrong at the Y into Cancer Fit, an accessible, on-demand digital training platform for survivors and trainers. • Leadership Lessons: How coaching a community college basketball team taught Suzanne the difference between hearing and truly listening with empathy. • Future Sustainability: Building self-sustaining micro-businesses to fuel Livestrong’s mission independent of external economic factors. Take Action in the Fight Against Cancer: If this episode moved you, here’s how you can take action to advance cancer research: • Donate to the AACR: Fuel lifesaving cancer research at https://AACR.org/Give • Support Survivorship: Learn more about Livestrong’s resources at https://Livestrong.org • Share this episode: Help amplify the message that bold ideas and global collaboration can change the future of cancer care • Subscribe to Believe in Progress: Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts Production Credits: Host: Mitch Stoller Guest: Suzanne Stone Executive Producer: Anthony Lopes Executive Producer: Michael Leary Director: Anthony Lopes Creative Director / Director of Photography: Michael Leary Writer: Anthony Lopes Editor: Michael Leary Associate Producer: Heather Holland Believe in Progress is produced by CollegeCast LLC. Check out more episodes: https://AACR.org/BelieveInProgress
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    42 m
  • 059: Leading the Future of Cancer Science with Dr. Matthew G. Vander Heiden and Dr. Inesa Huivaniuk - from the AACR Annual Meeting 2025:

    059: Leading the Future of Cancer Science with Dr. Matthew G. Vander Heiden and Dr. Inesa Huivaniuk - from the AACR Annual Meeting 2025:
    Nov 19 2025
    What does it take to lead one of the world’s largest gatherings of cancer researchers and to deliver cancer care on the front lines of a war zone? In this powerful episode of Believe in Progress, brought to you by the AACR Foundation, we sit down with two extraordinary individuals shaping efforts to drive progress in cancer science and medicine. Part One features Dr. Matthew G. Vander Heiden, Cochair of the AACR Annual Meeting, Director of the Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research at MIT, and practicing oncologist at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Dr. Vander Heiden offers a behind-the-scenes look at what goes into building a scientific meeting of this scale, why interdisciplinarity matters, and how today’s trainees will become tomorrow’s leaders. He also reflects on his work in cancer metabolism and how caring for patients shapes his scientific mission. Part Two features Dr. Inesa Huivaniuk, surgical oncologist at the Kyiv Regional Oncological Center and Executive Director of the Global Medical Knowledge Alliance (GMKA) in Ukraine. Dr. Huivaniuk shares what it’s like to perform surgery during missile attacks, support displaced patients, and maintain cancer care amid war. Her work highlights resilience, innovation, and the global collaboration required to ensure every patient receives care, even in wartime crisis. Together, these conversations capture the spirit of the AACR Annual Meeting: uniting every discipline, every discovery, and every person behind progress against cancer. This special episode of Believe in Progress was recorded live at the AACR Annual Meeting in Chicago. It’s part of a series that features dynamic conversations with researchers, clinicians, entrepreneurs, and student scholars contributing to the effort to defeat cancer. From breakthrough diagnostics to trailblazing health services research, our guests in this series share their stories of science, innovation, and hope. Featured Guests Dr. Matthew G. Vander Heiden - Cochair, AACR Annual Meeting; Director, Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research at MIT A global leader in cancer metabolism and scientific strategy, Dr. Vander Heiden discusses how the Annual Meeting is built, why collaboration across disciplines matters, and how supporting future scientists remains central to the AACR’s mission. Dr. Inesa Huivaniuk - Surgical Oncologist, Kyiv Regional Oncological Center; Executive Director, GMKA Ukraine From operating during missile strikes to restoring cancer services in a war zone, Dr. Huivaniuk speaks to the courage and innovation required to care for patients under extraordinary circumstances. Key Topics: Part One – Dr. Vander Heiden - How the AACR Annual Meeting, with its more than 22,000 attendees, is planned - How the conference ensures representation across basic science, clinical trials, population science, and policy - How it spotlights emerging researchers and first-time presenters - Insights into cancer metabolism and nutrient pathways in tumor growth - Balancing leadership, research, and clinical practice - How the AACR supported his early career and why he’s committed to mentoring the next generation Part Two – Dr. Huivaniuk - Delivering cancer care in a war zone: disruption, courage, and adaptation - Providing care to both cancer patients and injured soldiers - Barriers to medication access, radiation supplies, and medical infrastructure - Supporting physicians who cannot travel to meetings for education and collaboration opportunities - Using technology and international partnerships to maintain continuity of care - Personal experiences operating under missile fire and her refusal to abandon patients - How her mother’s medical journey inspired her to pursue medicine Take Action in the Fight Against Cancer: If this episode moved you, here’s how you can take action to advance cancer research: - Donate to the AACR: Fuel lifesaving innovation at https://AACR.org/Give - Share this episode: Help amplify the message that bold ideas and global collaboration can change the future of cancer care - Subscribe to Believe in Progress: Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts Production Credits: Host: Mitch Stoller Guests: Matthew G. Vander Heiden, MD, PhD; Inesa Huivaniuk, MD, MPA Executive Producer: Anthony Lopes Executive Producer: Michael Leary Director: Anthony Lopes Creative Director / Director of Photography: Michael Leary Writer: Anthony Lopes Editor: Michael Leary Associate Producer: Heather Holland Believe in Progress is produced by CollegeCast LLC.
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    44 m
  • 058: Running Toward Hope - Rhett Austell’s Race Against Cancer

    058: Running Toward Hope - Rhett Austell’s Race Against Cancer
    Nov 5 2025
    What does it take to face cancer head-on, twice, and still find the strength to run toward progress? In this powerful episode of Believe in Progress, brought to you by the AACR Foundation, Rhett Austell shares his deeply personal journey through stage 4 appendix cancer, fatherhood, advocacy, and the fight for his life. Rhett’s story is one of resilience. From the sudden onset of cancer in his late 30s to undergoing major surgery, chemotherapy, and still lacing up to run the Broad Street Run in Philadelphia, he embodies what it means to keep going, no matter the odds. His passion for funding cancer research is fueled by both the personal loss of his father and by hope: through his father-in-law’s survival, thanks to a clinical trial. This special extended episode includes a heartfelt epilogue recorded after Rhett’s recent cancer recurrence, where he speaks openly about the realities of a second diagnosis, his continued treatment, and what drives him to keep fighting—not just for himself, his wife, and his four daughters, but for all cancer patients and their families. Key Topics: - The shocking discovery of stage 4 appendix cancer at age 38 - The emotional rollercoaster of becoming a father again amid diagnosis - Lessons learned from his father’s and father-in-law’s cancer journeys - Running the Broad Street Run after major surgery and raising more than $9,000 - Facing a cancer recurrence and embracing advocacy with renewed urgency - The importance of time, clinical trials, and fully funding cancer research - What it means to believe in progress, even in the face of setbacks Episode Chapter Markers (Timestamps): 00:00 – Introduction to Believe in Progress 00:53 – Rhett's Story Begins 03:09 – A Surprise Diagnosis and a New Baby on the Way 08:12 – Treatment, Surgery, and Finding Strength Through Family 09:28 – Cancer in the Family: Stories of Loss and Survival 14:48 – Why Cancer Research Matters Now More Than Ever 16:55 – Running Again: From the Hospital to the Finish Line 20:23 – Fundraising, Broad Street Run, and Victory 21:49 – Epilogue: Facing Recurrence with Purpose 27:34 – Rhett’s Second Round of Treatment 32:29 – Continued Advocacy in the Face of Uncertainty 36:04 – Looking Ahead: Hope, Family, and Next Goals If this episode moves you, here’s how you can take action to advance cancer research: - Donate to the AACR: Fuel lifesaving innovation at https://AACR.org/Give - Share this episode: Send it to inspire others in your network - Subscribe to Believe in Progress: Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts Production Credits: Host: Mitch Stoller Guest: Rhett Austell Executive Producer: Anthony Lopes Executive Producer: Michael Leary Director: Anthony Lopes Creative Director / Director of Photography: Michael Leary Writer: Anthony Lopes Editor: Michael Leary Associate Producer: Heather Holland Believe in Progress is produced by CollegeCast LLC.
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    38 m
  • 057: Resilience in Pink: Two Survivors on Cancer Early Detection and Advocacy

    057: Resilience in Pink: Two Survivors on Cancer Early Detection and Advocacy
    Oct 15 2025
    Your support matters. Help accelerate progress against cancer: - Donate to the AACR: Fuel lifesaving cancer research at https://AACR.org/Give. - Share this episode: Amplify Patty’s and Vicki’s messages of early detection, advocacy, and hope. - Subscribe to Believe in Progress: Follow us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen. What does it look like to face breast cancer with courage, clarity, and community? In this episode, we talk with Patty Guthrie and Vicki Courlang about the moments that changed everything in their lives and the choices that carried them forward. Patty describes retiring after 25 years of teaching, staying on top of her annual mammograms, and catching her cancer early—at Stage 1 in 2020—as well as navigating treatment during COVID-19. She credits her care team at Memorial Sloan Kettering, daily gratitude, and walking five to six days per week as pillars of her recovery. Vicki brings a clinician’s insight to a patient’s journey. A former oncology nurse, she recognized something was “off” long before her diagnosis with Paget’s disease of the breast. Paget’s is a rare condition that, for Vicki, didn’t appear on standard mammograms. She emphasizes listening to your body, seeking prompt evaluation for changes, and advocating for screening access at younger ages. Both guests underscore the lifesaving importance of early detection, the reality of vulnerable moments, and the power of family, friends, and compassionate care. Their message is clear: education, advocacy, and cancer research save lives, and hope grows from science and facing our challenges of cancer together. Episode Highlights: - Early Detection Saves Lives: Patty’s annual screening caught a small, hard-to-feel tumor, and Vicki’s Paget's symptoms appeared externally and did not show on standard mammograms. This is where self-awareness and follow-up mattered. - Treatment in a Pandemic: Chemotherapy and radiation during COVID-19 meant isolation at appointments. However, nurses, techs, and loved ones created a safety net. - Caregiver and Patient Dual Lens: Vicki’s oncology background helped her understand next steps; Patty learned fast and stayed positive through her cancer journey. - Support Systems: Spouses, children, and close friends (shoutouts included) made a big difference. They helped with rides to appointments, meals, calls, and presence. - Survivorship Milestones: From frequent follow-ups to annual imaging and bone-density checks, survivorship is a structured path, which includes daily movement and gratitude. - Mindset Shifts: Cancer doesn’t define who you are; it’s part of what you are. Boundaries, positivity, and purpose take center stage. - Practical Advice: Stay informed. Get your screenings. Seek second opinions. Choose a team and a care plan you feel confident in and move forward. Additional Resources: - About the AACR: Advance your knowledge about cancer, prevention, screening, diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship. Visit AACR.org for more information. - Early Detection and Screening: Talk with your clinician about the right screening schedule for you; know your “normal” and report changes promptly. - Understanding Paget’s Disease of the Breast: If you notice persistent nipple/areolar changes (itching, flaking, redness, crusting), ask your clinician about appropriate evaluation beyond routine screening. - For Caregivers: Keep notes, bring questions to appointments, and accept help (meals, rides, or childcare) so you can sustain your support role. - Survivorship Tips: Follow your follow-up plan, stay active as you’re able (walking counts), and seek supportive communities, local or online. How You Can Help - Donate to the AACR: Support world-class cancer research at AACR.org/Give - Subscribe & Share: Help this episode reach patients, caregivers, and clinicians who need it - Leave a Review: Ratings and reviews help others discover the show Production Credits: Host: Mitch Stoller Guests: Patty Guthrie and Vicki Courlang Executive Producer: Anthony Lopes Executive Producer: Michael Leary Director: Anthony Lopes Creative Director / Director of Photography: Michael Leary Writer: Anthony Lopes Editor: Michael Leary Associate Producer: Heather Holland Believe in Progress is produced by CollegeCast LLC.
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    29 m