How did we get here? - The Back Story (PART 1)

Most cancer stories are about fear, despair, and bad news — but what if your diagnosis could inspire strength, humor, and a little “WTF” attitude? Meet your host, Jay — a pancreatic cancer warrior who decided to turn his battle into a badge of honor and a beacon for others. In this eye-opening, gut-punching, and surprisingly funny episode, he shares the wild journey from shocking diagnosis to life-saving surgery — complete with DIY chemo, nuclear-style radiation, and a whole lot of “wait, WHAT?!” moments.

You’ll discover how Jay uncovers his cancer almost by accident, navigates the complex maze of treatments (including the infamous Whipple procedure), and learns the importance of advocacy, humor, and community in the face of life’s biggest curveballs. We go deep into the crazy month-by-month rollercoaster — from avoiding a silent tumor to reunion with the belly button, and now, battling a sneaky prostate cancer that’s lurking in the shadows. Bonus: Jay’s real talk on trusting your doctors, listening to your body, and turning the “end of the road” into just another stage of the fight.

This episode isn’t sugar-coated, but it is hope-coated. Because if Jay can survive all this and crack a joke or two, so can you — whether you’re fighting cancer, supporting someone who is, or just love a good story of resilience with a side of sarcasm. Perfect for anyone who’s ever wondered if life can be both tough AND funny, or for those who need a little kick to go keep fighting.

Oh, and spoiler alert: Cancer sucks. But you, my friend, don’t have to.

Jay Williams is a stage 4 pancreatic cancer survivor, health advocate, and badass who’s here to spill his guts (literally) and help the rest of us face our fears with a smile.

Follow us on INSTAGRAM! @cancersuckspodcast

00:00 - Introduction to the Cancer Sucks Podcast

1:44 - Introducing your hosts, Jay and Adrienne

4:04 - The Purpose behind the Podcast

6:01 - Disclaimer

10:55 - Understanding Cancer and it's Impact

12:26 - Jay's Diagnosis - The Beginning

15:59 - The Importance of Early Detection

20:55 - Navigating the Medical System

25:45 - Facing the Diagnosis: A Turning Point

29:06 - Understanding Pancreatic Cancer

30:46 - Trivia Break!

36:32: Introducing Jay's Son: Parker Williams

37:36 - See you in Part 2!