The Funny Things About Cancer

Kerri, a breast cancer survivor who worked in a cancer center shares the candid, often funny and surprising conversations that happen between patients and staff. From questions about alcohol and chemo, losing the ability to taste, cravings, hair loss and bowel issues, the episode highlights how honesty creates connection, hope, and occasional laughter amid treatment. Cancer itself isn’t funny, but the vulnerability and openness it brings can lead to human, heartfelt, and sometimes hilarious moments that help patients and caregivers cope.

This episode finds humor in the unexpected side effects of cancer treatment — forced menopause ("heropause"), night sweats, hot flashes, mood swings, weight changes, and adult-onset acne — and how laughter helped cope.It also touches on male symptoms like andropause through a patient story, the practical challenges of sweating and dehydration, and how treatment and community support made the experience more bearable.

In "Pushing Through," the host shares her journey from a stage 0 breast cancer diagnosis to extended treatment, then returning to work at the cancer center where she was treated. She discusses the emotional toll of supporting patients while managing her own mental health, recounts a panic attack that led to an ER visit despite good physical test results, and emphasizes the importance of vulnerability, mammograms, and moments of both struggle and triumph.

In this episode of "The Funny Things About Cancer," I dive into the life-changing decision of incorporating a medical port into cancer treatment, introducing the affectionate nickname "Miss Marble." Listen as I share personal anecdotes and humorous reflections on the challenges and comforts provided by this technological marvel. Discover how Miss Marble transformed routine treatment routines, offering ease and efficiency, while forming an unexpected bond with me, her host. From installation anxieties to the bittersweet removal process, my story offers an enlightening perspective on finding humor, once again, in the midst of adversity.

Welcome to an engaging episode of "The Funny Things About Cancer," where host Kerri does a virtual chat with her nurse practitioner, Lindsey, to explore their unique and humorous journey through cancer treatment. Lindsey, an oncology nurse for 15 years, shares her first encounter with Kerri during her chemotherapy and how their bond grew over shared experiences and delicious cookies. Discover how Kerri's transition from corporate America to baking became a Hallmark-worthy story, filled with unexpected detours in her health journey. Listen to the tales of swelling fingers, joint pains, cookie therapy, and the joyous moments that brought light even in challenging times. Tune in for this heartfelt conversation that brings awareness to lesser-discussed cancer treatment experiences while celebrating the human spirit's resilience and humor.