Weekly Round-Up

Hello everyone, and welcome to this week’s blog roundup. This week’s roundup highlights several important themes, particularly resonant for me is the need for patient-centered care and respectful communication.

First up, the latest OurMBCLife podcast features Martha Carlson’s conversation with Josh Newby, a leading voice in metastatic breast cancer advocacy and founder of Theresa’s Research Foundation. They discuss the Foundation’s renewed and intensified efforts towards finding a cure for MBC.

Moving to personal reflections, Beth believes her teenage volunteer work at an animal hospital, where she was repeatedly exposed to X-rays due to an ill-fitting protective apron, is the likely cause of her cancer. She initially felt anger towards the veterinary staff and herself but has since forgiven herself while still regretting their lack of responsibility.

Nancy explores the phrase “it’ll be okay” in the context of trauma, from personal experiences with cancer and grief to the current political turmoil, questioning the comfort of such platitudes.

Connie reflects on her pneumonia recovery two years ago highlighting the unexpected lessons she learned about the importance of prioritizing relationships, managing her energy, and appreciating moments of stillness.

Barbara discusses the diverse motivations behind action after a breast cancer diagnosis.

A post on the SBC blog on how breast cancer impacts self-image.

Carolyn highlights the harmful impact of negative and dehumanizing language in healthcare, sharing a list of problematic terms identified by Johns Hopkins professionals. Examples include replacing “compliance,” “poor historian,” “difficult patient,” and “failed treatment” with more respectful alternatives.

Finally this week, Abigail details her awake port removal procedure, where a lack of basic courtesies left her feeling dehumanized. While the procedure was successful, the experience of feeling like “a piece of meat” caused her significant distress. She emphasizes that small acts of human compassion matter especially when patients are awake, and contrasts this with positive past experiences where she felt informed and cared for.

Thank you for joining me for this week’s blog roundup. I feel sure these blogs will provide you with valuable information and a sense of connection. Wishing you all a peaceful week ahead.

Wishing you all a peaceful week ahead.

Much love

Marie xxx