Send us a text

Vanessa sits down with Samantha to talk about her powerful lung cancer journey.

Samantha was diagnosed in her 40s, and her story is a reminder of the importance of listening to your body and pushing for answers when something feels off.

She opens up about the first symptoms she noticed, what it was like hearing the words “you have cancer,” and how she found the strength to keep going. Samantha also shares how she decided to start speaking up and raising awareness, offering advice for anyone who might feel afraid to seek help.

This is an honest, heartfelt chat about resilience, community, and the power of trusting yourself — a conversation you won’t want to miss.

About Samantha

Samantha is a passionate advocate for lung cancer awareness and has become a strong voice in breaking the stigma around the disease. Since her diagnosis, she’s dedicated her time to sharing her story and encouraging others to listen to their bodies and not ignore the small signs.

Send us a text

In this mini-podcast, Vanessa talks about what really happens after you hear those words — you have cancer.

She chats about all the appointments, surgeries, oncology visits, chemo, and the mental side of it all… the fear, the confusion, and trying to figure everything out.

Vanessa also shares a few little tips on how to not let the fear of recurrence take over your life — things she’s learned herself, five years on after finishing her own breast cancer treatment.

It’s an honest, supportive chat to remind you that you’re not alone, and it’s okay to feel completely lost.

Send us a text

Miriam shares her unexpected journey with melanoma, detailing her diagnosis, treatment, and the emotional rollercoaster that followed. She emphasizes the importance of community support, advocacy for better treatment access, and the need for patients to listen to their bodies. Miriam's story is one of resilience, hope, and the power of connection in the face of adversity.

https://www.ucanireland.ie/


Takeaways

Miriam was diagnosed with melanoma at age 45 after feeling a lump during a bike ride.
She experienced a shock when informed that her cancer was not breast cancer but melanoma.
Miriam's treatment involved surgery and a surveillance program due to the high chance of recurrence.
She faced a stage four diagnosis a year later, which opened up new treatment options.
Miriam emphasizes the importance of denial as a coping mechanism during the early stages of diagnosis.
She advocates for exercise and community support as vital for mental health during treatment.
Miriam highlights the systemic issues in cancer care, particularly regarding access to treatments.
She encourages patients to seek support and not deny themselves moments of joy.
Miriam's journey led her to become an advocate for better cancer care and support systems.
She believes there is life after cancer and encourages others to focus on what truly matters.


Sound bites

"I was completely in denial."
"It's just bad luck, that's life."
"There is life after cancer."