The Cancer Liberation Project

Visual artist, author, and therapeutic arts practitioner Nerissa Balland shares her experience of being diagnosed with metastatic melanoma while five months pregnant and caring for a toddler. She recounts navigating surgery, childbirth, lymph-node removal, immunotherapy, a recurrence, and an oral chemotherapy she could not tolerate. She ultimately chose a closely monitored “watch and wait” approach and, at the time of this conversation, had lived with no evidence of disease for eight and a half years. Nerissa also discusses the often-overlooked emotional aftermath of cancer. After interviewing more than 100 young mothers facing cancer, she identified common struggles involving identity, isolation, asking for help, and processing what they had endured. Those conversations inspired her book, Canvas of Courage: The Art of Healing, Hope, and Gratitude for Young Mothers Facing Cancer. She explains how creative practices—from painting and photography to movement, baking, and knitting—can help regulate the nervous system and give expression to experiences that are difficult to put into words. The conversation explores why healing is an evolving process, how therapeutic arts differ from clinical art therapy, and the importance of offering cancer patients specific, practical support. Nerissa’s central message is powerful: you are not broken—you may simply need the right space and support to process what you have lived through. Learn more about Nerissa’s book, artwork, workshops, and free Creative Reset Guide at nerissaballand.com The Cancer Liberation Project is sponsored by thekarlfeldtcenter.com

After a stage 4 prostate cancer diagnosis, filmmaker David Peters and his wife, health coach Kathi Peters, chose a whole-person approach to healing. They share how they combined conventional and integrative care, navigated difficult treatment decisions, and learned to become active participants in David’s health. The couple reflects on nutrition, mindset, forgiveness, purpose, and the importance of asking thoughtful questions without being rushed by fear. Kathi also offers an honest look at caregiving and why caring for her own health is essential to supporting someone she loves. Their journey inspired the documentary Three Words, created to encourage others facing cancer to move from “Why me?” to “What now?” Learn more at ThreeWordsDoc.com and follow their journey on Instagram at Wellness with the Peters. To watch the documentary: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/globalstoryfilms/2412234/r/haley Discount code: HAYLEY10 Dates: · Tickets are on sale now · September 25, 2026: the virtual premier opens · October 4, 2026: the viewing window closes Every ticket includes a free Redeem TV membership and access to the premier panel, which is only available 9/25-10/4 The Cancer Liberation Project is sponsored by thekarlfeldtcenter.com

In this inspiring episode, Hayley sits down with entrepreneur, endurance athlete, and author James Logan, whose life changed after a 2024 diagnosis of stage IV colorectal cancer. James shares how he moved from fear and preparing to die toward living fully with cancer--continuing to train through treatment and pursuing his lifelong dream of competing in the Ironman World Championship in Kona. James explains his DSSP philosophy--discipline, sacrifice, suffering, and pain--and how willingly facing difficult challenges can prepare us for adversity we never chose. He discusses building discipline through small, consistent actions and how faith, family, movement, and meaningful goals have helped him navigate treatment. Through his book, Just Keep Triing, his athletic journey, and his fundraising efforts, James is transforming hardship into service and hope. His message is simple but powerful: happiness is found in the pursuit, every tragedy can contain an opportunity for triumph, and no matter what you are facing, just keep trying. You can learn more about Jim and connect with him at www.JustKeepTri-ing.com The Cancer Liberation Project is sponsored by thekarlfeldtcenter.com

In this episode of The Cancer Liberation Project, Hayley sits down with Dr. Dana Flavin, a physician and researcher with more than 40 years of experience in cancer, nutrition, biochemistry, and integrative medicine. Dr. Flavin shares what led her to look beyond conventional cancer treatment after witnessing remarkable recoveries in patients with advanced cancer. She discusses her approach to supporting the body through nutrition, plant-based foods, detoxification, targeted nutrients, lifestyle, and combinations of therapies—and why she believes there is much more to cancer care than simply treating the tumor. Dr. Flavin also discusses the role of repurposed and off-label medications in integrative cancer care, sharing some of the drugs she has used in her practice and the mechanisms she believes may make them useful alongside other approaches. She talks about low-dose naltrexone as well as antiparasitic medications and explains why she looks closely at the biochemical pathways and potential synergy between conventional medications, nutrients, herbs, and other therapies. One of the most powerful themes of the conversation is the connection between the mind, body, and emotions. Dr. Flavin talks openly about the role that trauma, emotional wounds, forgiveness, prayer, meditation, and the desire to live can play in the healing process. She also shares examples from her decades of working with patients and her passion for making research and practical information more accessible. This is a wide-ranging conversation about integrative cancer care, emerging and unconventional approaches, the healing potential of nature, and Dr. Flavin’s mission to help people facing cancer hold on to hope. For more information, go to collmed.org The Cancer Liberation Project is sponsored by thekarlfeldtcenter.com

Nathalie shares a deeply moving story of surviving stage III cervical cancer at age 39 and the profound transformation that followed. A successful photographer, filmmaker and artist living a fast-paced, high-stress life, Natalie was shocked by her diagnosis after receiving a clean bill of health just days earlier. Faced with an aggressive cancer and discouraging prognoses, she found strength through prayer, hope, and the encouragement of an integrative oncologist who believed she could survive. Her story is a powerful reminder of the importance of listening to our bodies, slowing down, and never underestimating the healing power of hope. During her treatment, which included intensive radiation and a radical hysterectomy, Nathalie began drawing as a way to cope with the physical and emotional trauma. What started as a simple way to stay present during long hours of treatment became a profound healing practice. Her artwork captured the raw emotions of fear, grief, anger, and ultimately renewal, documenting her seven-year journey of recovery from PTSD, surgical menopause, and the emotional aftermath of cancer. Through therapy, meditation, movement, nature, and creativity, she gradually found her way back to herself. In this heartfelt conversation, Nathalie and Hayley discuss the often-overlooked challenges of life after cancer, including the long road to emotional healing, the impact of surgical menopause and changes in sexuality, and the difference between being "cured" and truly "healed." Natalie encourages listeners to embrace hope, connect with nature, nurture their spiritual lives, and find a creative outlet that helps them process life's most difficult moments. Her inspiring story reminds us that healing is not a destination but a journey—and that even after profound adversity, it is possible to rediscover joy, purpose, and a deep gratitude for life. Nathalie recommends cervivor.org who does great advocacy work. For more information and to get Nathalie’s book go https://www.nathalielatham.com https://www.instagram.com/nathalielatham/ https://substack.com/@nathalielatham http://linkedin.com/in/nathalie-latham-4b1a0b4 https://www.facebook.com/nathalie.latham/ The Cancer Liberation Project is sponsored by thekarlfeldtcenter.com