DiepCJourney Podcast

With any type of surgery there are risks and possible complications. We are tackling a topic on this episode of the DiepCJourney podcast that is frequently discussed in the community served at DiepCFoundation. I reached out to an expert in the field for our discussion on fat grafting in breast reconstruction. Dr. Emily A. Williamson founded Plastic Surgery Northwest in Spokane Washington in 2010 after completing her surgical training at the prestigious University of Washington Plastic Surgery Residency. She works with a group of five other surgeons performing various aesthetic and plastic surgery procedures including autologous breast reconstruction like DIEP flap. Preoperative patient education and counseling is imperative to minimize fears about fat grafting. Dr. Williams discusses how a skilled surgeon minimizes the occurrence of fat necrosis for both implant-based and autologous breast reconstruction. She describes how fat is utilized to achieve symmetry but also signs and symptoms of fat necrosis and what can be done for patients who develop this after a fat grafting procedure. Recent study from France: Oncological Safety of Autologous Fat Grafting in Breast Reconstruction after Mastectomy for Cancer: A Case-control Study Article from the Cleveland Clinic: Autologous Fat Grafting For Breast Reconstruction: Safe but Worrisome to Patients Social Media Links for Dr. Emily A. Williamson: Facebook: Plastic Surgery Northwest Instagram: emilywilliamsmd

There is hard science to support the benefits of exercise for those who are affected by cancer of any kind. We will discuss this on this episode of the DiepCJourney podcast. The good news is that now the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC) introduced new standards in January of 2024 for exercise oncology. Supporting this initiative is Maple Tree Cancer Alliance. Nationally there are around sixty-five hospitals and locations Maple Tree Cancer Alliance is partnering with to help patients and the medical community implement these changes to improve the lives of those affected by cancer. I am speaking to the Founder and CEO of Maple Tree Cancer Alliance, Karen Wonders, PhD, and their Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Jay K. Harness. They discuss the origins of Maple Tree and how it has grown internationally to provide free exercise training to thousands of cancer survivors. Their program is based on science and evidence with more than seventy peer reviewed manuscripts on the topic of exercise and cancer recovery. Leading organizations across the world are supporting these efforts. We discuss the following organizations in our conversation: American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) American Cancer Society American Society of Breast Surgeons Clinical Oncology Society of Australia (COSA) American College of Sports Medicine You can reach out to Dr. Wonders an Dr. Harness on LinkedIn here: Karen Wonders Dr. Jay Harness Maple Tree Cancer Alliance

Millions of women across the globe have undergone breast augmentation using a medical device called a breast implant. This is done for reasons such as cosmesis, sometimes called enhancement of the breast, but also for trauma to the chest wall or for oncological reasons meaning breast cancer. Any surgery is not without risks. Using a medical device like a breast implant is not different. This is the focus of our discussion on this episode of the DiepCJourney podcast. My guest is a leading expert in the field. We are going to discuss the medical definition, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment BIA/ALCL. This stands for breast implant associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma. It is an uncommon form of ALCL. I am speaking to Dr. Mark Clemens. After receiving his Medical Doctorate from Pennsylvania State College of Medicine, Dr. Clemens completed his Plastic Surgery residency at Georgetown University. In 2010, he came to the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas where he completed a fellowship in Microvascular Reconstructive Surgery. Dr. Clemens is an active researcher whose interests include BIA-ALCL, long term implant outcomes, robotic-assisted, microvascular, and reconstructive surgery of the breast. He is the author of the book, Phoenix Rising: Empower & Transform Through Breast Reconstruction. I am honored to list this book on the DiepCJourney Resources tab under Books. Links to Dr. Clemens social media links can be found here: LinkedIn: Mark Clemens MD, MBA, FACS Facebook: faceook.com/clemensmd Instagram: instagram.com/mclemensmd/ Twitter: twitter.com/clemensmd

I feel twice fortunate to be speaking to my guest on this episode of the DiepCJourney podcast on two topics, her specialty of performing DIEP Flap breast reconstruction and her role as conference scientific chair for the London Breast Meeting. It was a phenomenal experience for me to meet her in person at the London Breast Meeting where I learned a great deal from the game-changers in breast surgery, oncology, and breast reconstruction. This gives me the ability to bring more in-depth information to the listeners and breast cancer community we serve at DiepCFoundation. I am speaking with Marlene See, a consultant in plastic and reconstructive plastic surgery at Guys and St. Thomas Hospital, part of the NHS Foundation Trust in London. Marlene's specialists interests are breasts and microsurgical breast reconstruction. She trained in London at East Grinstead before embarking on her plastic surgery training. She completed her training in microsurgery at Guys and St. Thomas Hospital. Marlene is a published author on the topic of breast reconstruction, facial analysis, and lower limb reconstruction. Marlene shares with us the history of when DIEP flaps were introduced in microsurgery. She outlines the reason it is often called the "gold standard" in breast reconstruction, and what area of the body microsurgeons use to reconstruct the breast for those affected by breast cancer. Who is a candidate for DIEP flap and what concerns do patients have about recovery for this surgery? She shares with us the importance of using ERAS protocol to enhance recovery. We then switch topics and discuss the origins of the London Breast Meeting. Marlene and I glimpse into the celebration of the tenth anniversary of the conference and what the focus will be. It all began ten years ago with an invitation from colleague and friend Jian Farhadi while she was completing her microsurgical fellowship. Jian wanted to begin a conference on breast cancer treatment, breast surgery, breast reconstruction, and aesthetic breast surgery. It has evolved into one of the premier breast meetings to attend and be part throughout the world. With that, I invite you to listen to the podcast as Marlene shares the goals and theme of the London Breast Meeting 2024. You can find Marlene See and her colleague Jian Farhadi on Social Media accounts here: Marlene See: Instagram: seemarlene LinkedIn: Marlene See Jian Farhadi: Instagram: plasticsurgeryfroup_by_farhadi LinkedIn: Jian Farhadi

In this episode of the DiepCJourney podcast I speak to Nikki and Sean, a married couple who share the poignant story of going through Nikki's discovery of a genetic mutation and facing the shocking news of breast cancer. It is who we meet through our own breast cancer Journey that has a profound impact on a person's personal life. Nikki and Sean are two of those people in my life. We experience a range of emotions together throughout the podcast because we have known each other for some time. This story needs to be shared in as much as it was difficult at times for us all. Nikki and Sean give us an honest, raw, touching account of not only learning she had a genetic mutation putting her at high risk of getting breast cancer but also finding out after prophylactic DIEP flap breast reconstruction she found her own breast cancer. What is it like as a couple to hear the news, share it with two young sons, find the humor in life while facing breast cancer, and how they pulled each other through it all. They talk about surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and recovery and survivorship. There are valuable resources we wish to share with you that we spoke about in the podcast. You can gain access to all of them in the following links. Outdoor Adventure for Young Adults Living with Cancer and MS Yoga With Leona: Overcoming Breast Cancer Through Yoga Harmony Hill Healing Retreat Northwest Hope and Healing: Providing Financial Assistance to breast and gynecologic cancer patients. Genetic Support Foundation

Mammograms are known to be the most common form of breast imaging to screen for breast cancer. This form of breast imaging is known to some to be uncomfortable and for some women culturally unacceptable. So, this DiepCJourney podcast interview sparked great interest in the work my guest is doing. Professor Simona Francese, Professor of Forensic and Bioanalytical Mass Spectrometry at Sheffield Hallam University is my guest. Her work and interest in forensic science lead her to a serendipitous discovery published in a paper she authored with others entitled, "Non-invasive screening of breast cancer from fingertip smears – a proof of concept study". Professor Francese and I met at the London Breast Meeting this year where she opened the conference with her presentation on this topic. I was keen to follow up on an interview with her. This interview along with slides she shares on the study can be viewed on the DiepCFoundation channel. Research requires funding. As one who has had numerous mammograms, I am taking it upon myself to share information to reach out to Professor Francese for anyone interested in contacting her to bring financing to this project. It is a favor I am happy to do for her and to the breast cancer community I serve. Simona Francese Biomolecular Sciences Research Centre, Sheffield Hallam University Howard Street S1 1WB, Sheffield, UK Email: [email protected] Tel: 0044 114 2256165 You can find links to her social media accounts here: Instagram: forensic_geek LinkedIn: Simona Francese

DIEP flap breast reconstruction most often requires surgical drains for post operative care. Patients often mention to me they are awkward, can become infected at the suture site where they are attached to the skin, and are cumbersome to hide under clothing after surgery when going out in public. My guest on this episode of the DiepCJourney podcast has been in communication with me over the past year in anticipation of his recently published paper, Are Surgical Drains Needed in DIEP Flap Surgery? The Drain-Free DIEP Flap Concept. Mr. Theo Nanidis, is a Consultant Plastic and Reconstructive surgeon with the NHS and private practice at The Royal Marsden. He graduated with distinctions from University College London Medical School in 2003 and completed his general surgical and higher plastic surgery training in London. Mr. Nanidis was awarded specialist fellowships at the Royal Marden and Queen Victoria Hospitals, where he spent two years specializing in microsurgery with a focus on breast reconstruction. He has a special interest in surgical innovation and was awarded The Life Sciences Entrepreneur of the Year Award from Cambridge University in 2013. His research interests include meta-analytical outcomes research, volumetric analysis of flaps and patient enhanced recovery pathways. He has published and presented his work nationally and internationally. We reference a paper by Ms. Anita Mohan, Modified aesthetic abdominoplasty approach in perforator free-flap breast reconstruction: Impact of drain free donor site on patient outcomes. This was the impetus for further work and the recently published paper by Mr. Nanidis. You can find his work on the following social media channels: LinkedIn: Theodore Nanidis Twitter: @drplas Instagram: drtheonanidis Facebook: Theo Nanidis Plastic Surgeon

Dr. James Craigie from The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction in Charleston, South Carolina, discusses the use of clips, mesh, and sutures used in breast reconstruction surgery on this episode of the DiepCJourney podcast. Many patients ask about these tools and devices. The information Dr. Craigies provides helps the listener understand their use and function in procedures like DIEP flap breast reconstruction. This podcast cast is a remake of the DiepCFoundation video. We want to present platforms to watch and listen for patients as they reserach options for surgery after mastectomy. Our aim is to provide this information so the listener can takes notes, pause, rewind and replay the episode to prepare questions in order to have a shared decision-making conversation at their surgical consult for breast reconstruction for those affected by breast cancer and facing mastectomy. You can reach out to their office on the account of their COO (chief operating officer): Gail Lanter on LinkedIn

My guests on the DiepCJourney podcast are often made through connections in the breast cancer community. This is the case for Amy Robinson. She was introduced to me by another survivor who like me, benefits from the practice of meditation as part of her survivorship after surgery, treatment, and recovery. As a treat at the end of the podcast, I ask Amy to take us through a three-minute meditation. You won't want to miss it! My guest, Amy Robinson, created Radiant Healing Together in 2022 transforming the breast cancer experience with vital research, caring support, and warm community. Her 12+ weekly live events, curated experts, and exclusive 170+ on-demand recordings of events, meditations, and classes help you achieve your greatest wellness & vitality, wherever you are on the breast cancer healing journey. This includes: Warm supportive community with 12+ events/week Metabolic Approach to Cancer, Radical Remission Healer, Healthy Recipes & Cooking, RHT Expert Summits Leading-Edge Experts in Medical + Emotional Healing and Spiritual Direction Classes with Nutrition, Lymphedema, Pelvic Health & Alignment, Art Therapy, Meditation and Yoga Professionals 70+ breast cancer meditations from 5-60 min 100+ ON DEMAND events, interviews & classes You can find Amy and more about her work and resources here: Radiant Healing Together Private Facebook Group: Public Facebook Page for Amy Instagram for Radiant Healing Together

This DiepCJourney podcast will focus on breast imaging. The questions we will discuss are when to see a radiologist, types of imaging, and more specifics about each type. We will look at what the future looks like in medical imaging in breast cancer. I'm speaking to Dr. Randy Miles. Dr. Miles serves as the chief of breast imaging at Denver Health with oversite over the breast divisions clinical, research, and educational programs. He also serves as the associate director for research in the radiology department. He earned his medical degree from Mayo Clinic College of Medicine. Dr. Miles has achieved multiple awards throughout his career and served on medical missions in Haiti and the Dominican Republic. He completed his master's in public health degree from Harvard School of Public Health. He completed his diagnostic radiology residency training at the University of Illinois, Chicago where he served as chief resident. He went on to complete his breast imaging fellowship training at the University of Washington Medical Center, Seattle Cancer Care Alliance. Dr. Miles has been the recipient of numerous research grants and has published over fifty papers. He talks nationally on his work in artificial intelligence, health literacy, and breast cancer disparities. Join us as we share these topics that are of interest to those in the breast cancer community served at DiepCFoundation. Connect with Dr. Randy Miles on his social media accounts here: Twitter: Randy Miles, MD LinkedIn: Dr. Randy Miles

The London Breast Meeting will be held from September 7-9, 2023, at the Royal College of Physicians. It is a special opportunity for me to interview and be interviewed by my guest today on this episode of the DiepCJourney podcast. My guests and I discuss opportunities we will be involved in at the London Breast Meeting from the perspective of industry leaders, a world class microsurgeon, and patient advocacy. My guests are Rob Pupelis, CEO of Spectros, a medical device company that makes advanced molecular sensing devices like the T-Stat 2.0 tissue monitoring system for microvascular breast reconstruction like DIEP flap. I also welcome Elizabeth van Thillo, Vice President of Operations for Spectros. Dr. Minas Chrysopoulo joins us in conversation to discuss his role as an invited speaker at the London Breast Meeting. Dr. C is the current President of PRMA in San Antonio, Texas. We engage in conversation about the Breast Advocate® app he created. It is the first shared decision-making app for breast cancer and breast surgery. Dr. C is the Founder of Toliman Health, a digital health company committed to improving patient experience, outcomes, and satisfaction via empowering shared decision-making mobile technology. I would like to share that this podcast interview was conducted in early July of 2023. We discussed a topic regarding insurance coverage for DIEP flap breast reconstruction that has been a great concern for many, especially those patients affected by breast cancer facing a mastectomy who are interested in tissue-based reconstruction. I am happy to announce at the publish date we can share the news that coverage for DIEP flap and other autologous tissue reconstruction will continue to be covered by insurance allowing full access to reconstructive options for women. We share the excitement of attending the London Brest Meeting and connecting with colleagues across the globe to learn from gamechangers in oncological breast care and breast surgery. Be sure to listen to our fun London favorites at the end of the interview! You can follow my guests and find out more on their LinkedIn accounts here: Rob Pupelis Elizabeth van Thillo Dr. Minas Chrysopoulo, MD, FACS

My guests on this episode of the DiepCJourney podcast are three sisters, all of who have a BRCA 1 genetic mutation, and all of whom had DIEP flap breast reconstruction at the same surgical practice, PRMA, Plastic Reconstructive Microsurgical Associates, in San Antonio, Texas. This is also the surgical practice I had my DIEP flap performed by Dr. Minas Chrysopoulo in December of 2014. Elaine, the youngest of the three sisters, lead the way being the first to have her prophylactic DIEP flap with Dr. Peter Ledoux. After finding she tested positive for the BRCA 1 genetic mutation, she completed her surgery in late May of 2017. While she was in recovery, her sister, Eleanor, the oldest of the three, had her prophylactic DIEP flap two weeks later with Dr. Chet Nastala. I met Emily, the middle sister, while we both lived in Tucson, Arizona. Emily traveled to San Antonio in 2017 to help her sisters out during their recovery. After we sat down together in Arizona in 2018, it was in June of that year Emily decided to move forward with her DIEP flap with Dr. Ledoux. Her story is especially unique in that she planned a pregnancy after her DIEP flap. She shares the beautiful story of the birth of her young daughter after her DIEP flap. This is perhaps one of the most emotional, delightful podcasts I have recorded. We talked about so much we had in common, especially our ties to PRMA. All three sisters are advocates for those who carry a genetic mutation placing them at a high risk of getting breast cancer. They share their story and what others can do to mitigate their risk of getting breast cancer. Links on Facebook can be found here: Eleanor Ryder Emily Koellner Link for LinkedIn Account: Elaine Murray

Breast cancer is a scary word that no one wants to hear from their physician. When you're diagnosed with breast cancer your mind can often go to, "How long am I going to live?" But because treatments have improved over the years, survivorship in breast cancer is a word we are hearing more often now in breast cancer communities, online, and in the media. On this episode of the DiepCJourney podcast, we are shining a light on survivorship with our guest, Deepa R. Halaharvi, DO, who has "seen both sides as a breast cancer survivor and breast cancer surgeon." She completed her residency in general surgery at Ohio Health Doctors' Hospital and went on to complete a fellowship in breast surgical oncology at OhioHealth Grant Medical Center in Columbus, Ohio. Dr. Halaharvi practices at the OhioHealth Physician Group. She shares her personal story, the procedures she performs for her patients including those with ptotic (droopy or sagging breasts) called the goldilocks mastectomy, her procedural practice in clinic for the newly diagnosed, and what she does in her personal life to achieve work-life balance. Links and social media accounts to find out more about Dr. Halaharvi The Breast Cancer Podcast Instagram Account LinkedIn Account Facebook Account

When our bodies are physically changed because of breast cancer, it has the real potential of affecting sexual health. There are multiple layers to look at when a person presents with sexual dysfunction. In other words, the natural process of the act of sex has been disrupted due to treatment, surgery, the emotional impact of cancer, and other considerations. My guest on this episode of the DiepCJourney podcast is an expert in this field. I want to welcome Dr. Stacy Tessler Lindau, professor of obstetrics and gynecology at the University of Chicago Medicine. Her Clinical Interests include Cancer Survivorship, Female Sexual Dysfunction, Female sexual function, Gynecologic Cancers, Integrated Women's Health, and Medical Ethics. I am pleased about our common connections and would like to mention that I am conducting this podcast because of being asked to help in gathering information on the Bionic Breast Study from patients in the community I serve. We are going to take an in-depth look at that program with Dr. Lindau today as part of the sexual concerns in women with cancer. Dr. Lindau is also the Founding chair of the Scientific Network on female sexual health and cancer. She also created, Woman Lab, a platform where every woman – and everyone who loves and cares for women – can learn truths about sex. On the podcast "The Curbsiders Internal Medicine," Dr. Lindau tackles fully the problem of sexual health not being discussed among many physicians, no matter what discipline they specialize in. You can find Dr. Lindau on LinkedIn here: Dr. Stacy (Tessler) Lindau

Achieving symmetry and understanding fat grafting in breast reconstruction are topics patients frequently ask about. I reached out to an expert in the field. My guest on this episode of the DiepCJourney podcast is Dr. Tim Matatov of Southwest Breast and Aesthetics in Phoenix, Arizona. Dr. Matatov is a board-certified microsurgeon who performs procedures such as implant breast reconstruction, several autologous reconstruction procedures, autologous meaning using the patient's own tissue to reconstruct the breast, nipple reconstruction, and a variety of other breast reconstruction procedures. He works with a team of two other surgeons, Dr. Joseph Zakhary and Dr. Matthew J. Mino. We discuss mastopexy, or breast lift, in the setting of breast reconstruction. Achieving symmetry in the contralateral breast for a unilateral DIEP flap is important to the patient. It serves a functional purpose as well when wearing wardrobe items like a bra. He points out the psychological benefits to the patient since this becomes a quality of life and self-image concern for women. Dr. Matatov outlines the various names and details of mastopexy procedures and why one might be chosen over the other for optimal patient outcomes. Dr. Matatov shares how important it is to have an open discussion with patients about managing reasonable expectations. Dr. Matatov continues the discussion with fat grafting. He points out that a lot of the techniques and percentages, and how it all works is for a majority of cases, theoretical. He states there is not any hard proof that one technique or device works better than the other. There are studies that are peer-reviewed but not randomized and controlled to a degree which backs up his statement on fat grafting methods. However, Dr. Matatov feels it is a very effective part of the breast reconstruction process. He points out again that managing patients' expectations is very important in this step of breast reconstruction. It often takes more than one fat grafting procedure. Techniques, patient outcomes, value of patient support groups, are discussed further in the podcast. Social Media accounts to find out more about Dr. Matatov and his practice: Instagram Account Facebook Account

My guest today on the DiepCJourney podcast has a blog and website titled, No Half Measures, Living Out loud. 2017 was a pivotal year in the life of my guest, Abigail Johnston. Early that year, while dual nursing her twin boys she felt a lump in her left breast. The next few months involved multiple appointments with radiologists, oncologists, and surgeons. Abigail was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer. Abigail Johnston is a wife, mother, writer, educator, earned her JD after completing law school and is a patient advocate. She begins the interview by sharing her experience at the National AACR conference held in early 2023. She sat on a panel with the FDA speaking about the importance of overall survival as an important end point in clinical trials. With all the complexities on that topic, she felt the FDA worked hard to make sure her voice was heard. Attending conferences allows her to meet other patient advocates and for Abigail and me, this is always one of the highlights of traveling to these meetings. We met in person in December of 2022 at the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium. As she says, "Those in person hugs, nothing is better, honestly." She talks about the idea of "finding a purpose after a serious trauma." Abigail states that trauma changes you fundamentally as a human being. The question becomes, how do you carry that trauma? Advocacy is the way Abigail has found some purpose in "the derailment of her life." It has become an overarching theme in her life. This was a podcast interview that felt comfortable, informative, and one I will go back and listen to myself often. You can reach out to Abigail and find more of her work in the following links: Blog: No Half Measures: Living Out Loud Bio: Abigail's Story Contact Information: Email Abigail Place to find Abigail's writing and work: Social Media and Elsewhere

Democratization is a noun. The meaning of democratization as it pertains to microsurgery is the action of making training and education available through technology, in this case, microsurgery in breast reconstruction. The chosen field of microsurgery requires hours of training and practice. Observing colleagues perform this sophisticated and complex surgery increases their own skill set with the primary goal being improving patient outcomes in breast reconstruction. I invited back to the DiepCJourney podcast two internationally known microsurgeons. Dr. Joe Dusseldorp practices in Sydney, Australia and is a fellow of the Royal Australasian College of surgeons. He has a keen interest in microsurgery and did his training overseas to achieve this status. He is also trained to do robotic assisted surgery. Dr. Minas Chrysopoulo is the current president of PRMA in San Antonio, Texas, and founder of the Breast Advocate®, a free shared decision-making app for breast cancer surgery and breast reconstruction. He holds a board certification in plastic surgery. As he states, board certification matters in your relevant field. Dr. C underwent further training in microsurgery that included burns and hand which led him to microsurgical breast reconstruction. It is the core of his practice with his team member surgeons at PRMA. Dr. Joe invited Dr. C to join him live in the operating theater using the Proximie technology system to observe a robotic assisted DIEP flap breast reconstruction. When you hear the term "mate" from a London born microsurgeon, Dr. C, referring to Dr. Joe in Sydney, you know they have become colleagues in surgery as well as friends who have a passion for providing the best outcomes for breast cancer patients in breast reconstructive surgery. I invite you enjoy the conversation and explanation of how these two cross-continental surgeons seamlessly joined each other via the Proximie technology system in the operating theater discussing, learning, and sharing their combined skill in a robotic assisted DIEP flap breast reconstruction. Dr. Joe and Dr. C both say this is the way forward, democratization in surgery, allowing more surgeons to train in real time, avoiding the need to travel and take them away from their patients and time in clinic and the OR. Resources discussed in the Podcast. Proximie Healthcare Platform Dr. Joe's DiepCFoundation educational video on Robotic Assisted DIEP flap Dr. C's DiepCFoundation educational video on Reducing Abdominal Complications: DIEP Flap Connect with Dr. Joe Dr. Joe on Instagram Dr. Joe on Twitter Dr. Joe on LinkedIn Connect with Dr. Chrysopoulo Dr. C. on Instagram Dr. C. on Twitter Dr. C. on LinkedIn

Megan-Claire Chase is a breast cancer survivor who deals with a lot of effects from treatment and being diagnosed with lobular breast cancer at a very young age. But she excitedly begins our conversation by saying her pain melted away at the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium when she was able to meet patient advocates in person for the first time. Social media connects many of us but the conference we both attended in early December of 2023 allowed us to sit down together to share intimate conversations, ask each other how we are doing, and share our advocacy work. I was fortunate to be one of those advocates to finally meet her in person at the meeting. Megan-Claire experienced strange symptoms for about two years that were left without a diagnosis. Her mother had ovarian cancer when she was pregnant with Megan-Claire. She states she felt this made her a miracle baby for her parents. Megan-Claire felt certain at some point in her lifetime she would get cancer because she has a strong history in her family. Because of this she was able to get a mammogram at age thirty-five and have it covered by insurance. Being hyper aware of her body due to family history of cancer, the signs she saw were concerning. She noticed tiny green bruising on her legs, weight gain, loss of hair on the left side of her head, and a "zit" on the outside of her left breast. She knew something was not right. Megan-Claire shares with us she would like the medical community to be more aware that black women and other women of color will present with different symptoms that her white counterparts. This leads us to a more in-depth conversation on health disparities, implicit biases in breast cancer care and what Megan-Claire accomplishes in her community and advocacy work to improve the communication between the patient and physician. Megan-Claire will be participating in a community event to connect patients and provide these resources June 15-21 of 2023. The event and other ways to join Megan-Claire on social media can be found here. National Black Family Cancer Awareness Week started by the FDA through the Oncology Center of Excellence. Megan-Claire's Linked Account: https://www.linkedin.com/in/megan-claire-chase/ Breast Cancer Program Director: Share Cancer Support

The art of microsurgery transcends the work behind surgical loupes and microscopes when a breast cancer patient has breast reconstruction after loss of breasts due to a disease. My guest on this episode of the DiepCJourney podcast are two microsurgeons who worked together to create Project Restored Dr. Ron Israeli and Dr. Jonathan Bank selected several of their patients to participate in this unique artistic endeavor. Our key guest today is one of those patients, Chelsey Pickthorn. Chelsey shares the story of her diagnosis at the very young age of 33. She has an extensive family history of breast cancer and felt she had a wealth of knowledge. However, when she was diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer, she tells us she had never heard of it before. Chelsey raises awareness not only for this subtype of breast cancer but also for those with metastatic breast cancer. A year after her initial diagnosis and breast reconstruction, she was diagnosed with metastatic disease. Her connection to Mollie Sugarman and the Patient Empowerment program brought Chelsey to know she would be in caring and trusted hands with the community that NYBRA had set up. She felt both seen and heard. Chelsey states it is the most important thing in your breast reconstruction decision process. Chelsey shares, along with Dr. Israeli and Dr. Bank, the poignant moments and process of Project Restored.

We are speaking about the art and practice of microsurgery as it relates to breast reconstruction surgery in this episode of the DiepCJourney podcast. Microsurgery is a specialty of plastic surgery requiring training beyond plastic surgery residency. Microsurgery involves moving tissue and blood vessels from one part of the body to another to repair or replace tissue that has been affected by disease or trauma. Carefully dissecting blood vessels from a donor site, microsurgeons then place the tissue from the donor site to the new site and tie blood vessels together at the new site under high powered microscopes. One form of breast reconstruction is the DIEP flap. The donor site is the tummy tissue. This abdominal tissue is disconnected, and the new recipient site is the breast area that has been affected by breast cancer. My guest is a microsurgeon who frequently and successfully performs this type of breast reconstruction surgery. Dr. Sumeet Teotia is a Professor of Plastic Surgery and Director of the Breast Reconstruction Program at UT Southwestern Medical Center. He has a keen interest in classical drawing. The parallel between classical art, drawing and breast reconstruction is our topic of conversation today. You can view some of his drawings on his Instagram account at drsumeetteotia

In this episode of the DiepCJourney podcast I speak with a medical oncologist. Dr. Eleanora Teplinsky has her own podcast called, INTERLUDE: Cancer Stories with Dr. Teplinsky. She is Head of Breast Medical Oncology and Clinical Assistant Professor of Medicine at The Icahn School of Medicine in Mount Sinai, NY. She has a robust and education Instagram account speaking about key topics in cancer care and survivorship. She addresses the consequences of a cancer diagnosis and the very real occurrence of patients playing the "blame game" thinking they may have caused their cancer. She addresses risk factors and how risk factors are not causal. Her favorite quote in her office and what she shares with her patients is, "Inhale the future and exhale the past. I ask her about research in alcohol consumption as it relates to breast cancer patients. Dr. Teplinsky discusses those risk factors and what we need to be aware of. She carefully explains the affects of cancer treatment and how it can vary from patient to patient. Coordination of care with your medical team to manage these side affects is important. Working with your oncologist, radiologist, surgeon, and physical therapy among others becomes important in treatment management. Dr. Teplinsky shares her sage advice on using social media for breast cancer information. She also shares her thoughts on the financial toxicity breast cancer patients can face. You can find her on LinkedIn at Eleanora Teplinsky.

Neosho Ponder, Ph.D., Adjunct Professor at Trinity Washington University in Washington, DC is an author, educator, breast cancer survivor, and woman of faith. She personifies resilience. Neosho is my guest on this episode of the DiepCJourney podcast. We met as patient advocates at the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium in December of 2022 and found our lives had many parallels. We talk about these parallels through our Kansas heritage and our own personal Journey through DIEP flap breast reconstruction. Neosho has experienced homelessness and going through breast cancer treatment at the same time. She writes about her life's experience in her book, GOD'S GOT JOKES: How I Used My Faith and God's Humor to Survive Breast Cancer. Her faith has sustained her and grounded her throughout her life. Weaving in her healthy sense of humor she tells us it has been her strength and foundation. She is a first-generation college graduate and proud alumni of Howard University where she earned her Ph.D. Neosho is a volunteer as a Tigerlily Angel Advocate sharing the knowledge she gained through her own breast cancer treatment and surgery. She also volunteers in the Young Survival Coalition DC and For the Breast of Us. Our conversation wraps up as we share our Kansas connections. I am honored to share the story of her uncle, Jesse Lee Jackson, a former mayor of Chanute, Kansas. Connect with Neosho on LinkedIn: Neosho Ponder, Ph.D

Access to DIEP flap breast reconstruction is in danger. Why? Because of coding changes to insurance, it may become out of reach financially for some women. This is the most advanced form of breast reconstruction available, and I felt it was time to address this concern. I begin by sharing my own story and how I was positively affected by making the choice to have DIEP flap after a second breast cancer diagnosis. I am one of thousands of voices who need to be heard, to be honored as we work to reverse this decision so access to this type of surgery can continue to be available. It was important for me to hear from the voice of a microsurgeon who is passionate about doing DIEP flaps and advanced microsurgical procedures to understand from her perspective why the coding changes are concerning to her for her patients. I invited my guest, Dr. Dhivya R. Srinivasa to address the topic in this episode of the DiepCJourney podcast. We want the listeners to have resources to other entities who have set up advocacy pages so that you can share your voice, your story, so decision makers can see how important this choice in surgical options is for those affected by breast cancer. The following list is websites set up to help bring awareness to this coding change and what you can do to help. Advocacy: Dhivya R. Srinivasa, MD, FACS Advocacy: Jamie Zampell, MD Advocacy: Dr. Elisabeth Potter, MD PRMA: Dr. Minas Chrysopoulo, MD, FACS explanation of coding changes Advocacy Page: PRMA Plastic Surgery

We are discussing a topic that will resonate with many of our listeners who have been affected by breast cancer. Whether you are the patient, caregiver, physician, or surgeon we are going to discuss navigating the complex Journey of being diagnosed with breast cancer through the lens of a nurse navigator. How does one seek this help at the cancer center you are being treated at? We will discuss working during a diagnosis and while in treatment and living a full and purposeful life as a survivor after breast cancer and breast reconstruction. We will also unpack the often challenging topic of palliative care and end of life for those who have metastatic disease. My guest on this episode of the DiepCJourney podcast is Lillie Shockney, Co-Founder of AONN (Adademy of Oncology Nurse & Patient Navigators) and University Distinguished Service Professor of Breast Cancer and the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine. These are only a few of Lillie's accomplishments. She has many and is a well-known, well-respected voice in breast cancer and breast reconstruction. I am delighted to share this conversation with you. It felt so comfortable for me to record it for our listeners.

Since having DIEP flap, a plastic reconstructive surgery technique performed to rebuild breasts after a mastectomy, I have been fascinated with the field of plastic surgery and topics related specifically to breast reconstruction. I interview Rob Pupelis, CEO, of Spectros for the first episode of season three of the DiepCJourney podcast. Rob shares the story of his visit to the Queen Victory hospital (QVH) in England. He was able to visit Queen Victoria while attending the London Breast Meeting in late 2022. While at the conference, Rob demonstrated the T-Stat tissue oximetry system developed by Spectros. T-Stat is used to monitor flaps in breast reconstruction and in our conversation, we discuss the efficacy of the T-Stat system and why it improves the surgeon's success rate of flap procedures like the DIEP flap. We begin our conversation with the history of the Queen Victory Hospital treating burn victims during WWII. A surgeon from New Zealand, Archibald McIndoe, came to the Queen Victory hospital via a chance meeting with his cousin, Sir Harold Gillies, often considered the father of plastic surgery. Seeing the severe burn injuries sustained by pilots in WWII, McIndoe saw what his cousin, Sir Harold Gillies did using tube pedicles to rebuild the faces of WWI soldiers and expanded on this technique by treating the soldiers at Queen Victoria. He took healthy, unburnt tissue from other sites on the soldiers to reconstruct burnt tissue. He nurtured this community, and these airmen were considered "guinea pigs" as part of his pioneering work in reconstructive burn surgery. These young airmen treated by Archibald McIndoe became known as the Guinea Pig club. He took them under his care not only during their physical healing but also treating the psychological impact of having disfigurement from these burns. There were over 600 of these airmen. Rob shared some of the photos hanging in the halls of QVH taken during his visit listing the members of The Guinea Pig Club, Archibald McIndoe, and the operating theater. We go on to discuss modern day techniques used in microsurgery and how Rob became the CEO of Spectros. Flap monitoring is an important question many patients ask about. The T-Stat monitoring system is at the bedside of the patient after DIEP flap breast reconstruction to ensure that the blood flowing into the breast and out of the breast is monitored. The physician performing the DIEP flap has 24-hour access to real time data provided by the monitoring system via a small sensor placed on the flap to monitor it while the patient is in hospital after surgery. We went on to discuss how T-Stat can be used regardless of the coloration of skin. I hope this educational podcast discussion will encourage patients to ask about the type of tissue monitoring system their surgeon uses to monitor flaps during their initial consult for breast reconstruction. Many thanks to Rob for educating us about the benefits of the T-Stat system by Spectros.

The final episode of Season 2 of the DiepCJourney podcast brings together thought leaders in shared decision-making. This fireside chat includes the members of the World Health Innovation Summit (WHIS) Shared Decision team. This team was formulated and is led by Gareth Presch who founded WHIS in 2015. Taking a Good Health and Wellbeing (SDG3) approach to person centered health, Gareth Presch recognized that there were five key cornerstones of which all needed to be supported, at a the same time, by the same people: Health, Economy, Education, Environment, and Ecosystems. He discusses his work by looking back at the accomplishments and milestones met in his 2022 global travels, speaking engagements, and participation in the World Urban Forum in Katowice, Poland in June of 2022. Susanne Baars connects people to knowledge. She received training as a genetic scientist at Harvard and she is using her expertise through the Social Genomics Moonshot project she created to find access to care for those across the globe. Her work has transformed the lives of cancer patients. You can read more about her story with one patient, Harry, on his Journey through personalized treatment. Dr. Minas Chrysopoulo is the current president of PRMA in San Antonio, Texas. He is a reconstructive microsurgeon performing breast cancer surgery primarily using the patient's own tissue to reconstruct breasts lost to mastectomy. Dr. Chrysopoulo is an entrepreneur. He is the Founder of Toliman Health and through Toliman developed the first shared decision-making breast cancer surgery app, Breast Advocate. His innovations brought him to Katowice, Poland with his daughter to present the Breast Advocate app at the World Urban Forum along with Gareth. I am proud to work with and know these thought leaders as we continue to understand the needs of global digital health, personalized care, and building communities through our collective efforts. As Susanne stated, "Movement is the greatest facilitator". Dr. Chrysopoulo stated that the only constant we have is change. It is through incremental changes as change agents we can work to improve health care through shared decision making and promoting and developing best practices in health care communitcation.

Food and what to eat after a breast cancer diagnosis is our topic on this episode of the DiepCJourney podcast. About 80% of all breast cancers are ER positive. This means the breast cancer cells grow in response to the hormone estrogen. With so much information about what to eat, what not to eat, how much to eat, food can become a topic that triggers anxiety and confusion. My guest today is Cathy Leman. She is a registered dietitian, nutrition therapist, and certified personal trainer. Most women diagnosed with hormone-positive breast cancer feel anxious and confused about food, especially after they finish treatment. She is also a survivor of hormone-positive breast cancer, and founder of the Peaceful Plate program. The Peaceful Plate program teaches how food supports survivorship health and well-being, and coaches women on ending food fear so they eat with peace, not panic. When you eat with peace, you enjoy your food. Cathy also writes the dam. mad. About BREAST CANCER blog. Having concerns is not exclusive to those who have had hormone positive breast cancer. It revolves around all types of breast cancer and Cathy has room for coaching in all types of breast cancer. Cathy's mantra, "When you eat for your breast health you eat for your overall best health!" Cathy can be found on Instagram at hormone.breastcancer.dietitian

How many people diagnosed with breast cancer think about clinical trials or being part of one? In this episode of the DiepCJourney podcast we are going to discuss the importance of patients asking about participation in clinical trials and studies to improve the lives of breast cancer patients. My guest is Stephanie Graff, MD, FACP. She is the Director of Breast Oncology at the Lifespan Cancer Institute and Professor of Medicine at Brown University. Dr. Graff is passionate about connecting with her patients for personalized care and advancing breast cancer research, and breast cancer prevention. Our interview includes the process and steps involved for patients who sign up for clinical trials and studies. There are benefits for patients and Dr. Graff examines the processes. Her hope is this becomes standard of care for physicians to tell patients about clinical trials available and encourage them to sign up if they qualify. Dr. Graff is also involved with the American Cancer Society in Kansas City, The Susan Love Research Foundation, the American Society of Clinical Oncology, and other prominent organizations. She is a published author of several research papers. She was named "Woman Disrupter of the Year" at the 2022 American Society of Clinical Oncology Conference. Dr. Graff obtained her medical degree at the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine. She is active on social media sharing tweets about her research and work. We are both Kansas City Chiefs fans and occasionally share our love of the #ChiefsNation on Twitter. You can find out more about her work and interest in clinical trials and research on LinkedIn at: Stephanie Graff, MD, FACP

High definition DIEP flap is combining the aesthetics of plastic surgery and the skill of microsurgery to optimize the donor site, the abdominal area, in breast reconstruction. Dr. Andrew Gassman of PRMA in San Antonio, Texas, sat down with me to record a Facebook Live interview for the DiepCJourney podcast. This occurred the day after BRA day, Breast Reconstruction Awareness Day 2022. This podcast is being used across other platforms, including the PRMA YouTube channel, and will also be seen on the DiepCFoundation YouTube channel. The techniques used in high-definition DIEP flaps include methods of suturing and fat grafting to contour the shape of the abdominal area. Dr. Gassman addresses what patients are candidates and the conversation he has during a consult to explain what he will be doing during a high definition DIEP and what the recovery will be like.

You have been diagnosed with breast cancer or find you are at high risk of getting breast cancer and are facing a mastectomy. Now what? If you choose to reconstruct your breast what does this process look like? Patients are inundated with information at the beginning of a diagnosis or finding they have a genetic mutation. They see an oncologist, breast surgeon, plastic surgeon, radiologist, and other medical specialists. Where does a patient begin the research and planning for their breast reconstruction? Is timing important if you are currently undergoing treatment, either chemotherapy or radiation? Are lifestyle considerations important in the decision process? My guest on this episode of the DiepCJourney podcast is Dr. Santosh Kale, MD, MBA. He is a board-certified Plastic and reconstructive microsurgeon who practices in Gahanna, Ohio at Midwest Breast and Aesthetic Surgery just outside of Columbus Ohio. Along with his team at Midwest Breast he specializes in breast reconstruction (implant and tissue-based), aesthetic breast surgery, body contouring, and lymphedema surgery. The discussion we have today covers many of these topics in general terms for patients to begin to consider as they plan their own reconstructive Journey. Our goal is to provide this information to assist you at your consults in preparation for your breast reconstruction surgery.

DIEP flaps are a type of breast reconstruction using a patient's own tissue to reconstruct breasts after mastectomy for those affected by breast cancer. DIEP stands for deep inferior epigastric perforators. Epigastric refers to the abdominal area. The underlying tissue and perforators (blood vessels) are disconnected by the microsurgeon from the abdominal area and transplanted to the breast area to create soft, warm, tissue much like the breasts removed during mastectomy. To do an efficient DIEP flap requires years of training, skill, planning, and a team. My guest, Dr. Nicholas Haddock is one of the Breast Reconstruction Team at UT – Southwestern Department of Plastic Surgery in Dallas, TX. He works with Dr. Sumeet Teotia performing state of the art autologous breast reconstruction in the Dallas/Fort Worth area in Texas. In our discussion we reference the PRS Global Open paper he authored with Dr. Teotia titled, "Efficient DIEP Flap: Bilateral DIEP Flap in Less Than Four Hours" Our goal for the conversation in this episode of the DiepCJourney Podcast is to inform and educate patients about the value of a team approach and to consider questions to ask at their own surgical consult for breast reconstruction.

Breast cancer patients seek information about medical tattoos for varied reasons. This can include decorative tattoos to cover scars after breast surgery or 3D nipple/areola tattoos to artistically recreate the nipple/areola area of the breast sometimes removed during surgery. I am speaking to two medical tattoo artists on this episode of the DiepCJourney podcast, Nicole Rizzuto and Eric Eye. Connecting these cross-continental experts and discussing their work combines out collective interest in helping those affected by breast cancer understand what medical tattoos are. Nicole and Eric explain the technical and emotional aspect of their work with patients in their tattoo studios. There can be fear associated with getting a tattoo because for many, it is their first tattoo. These two well trained, experienced medical tattooists work with a variety of "canvases." They must consider radiated skin, skin that is healing, age, pigmentation, and other factors. One of the best resources to view a medical tattoo artist's work is their Instagram accounts. You can find Nicole's account at nmr_medical_tattoo. Eric's Instagram account is at eric_eye_restorative. They show work with a variety of clients and show fresh work, second sessions, and final work so you can see the progression of the process.

Have you ever been told you have dense breasts by a clinician after a mammogram? Whether you have or not, our topic on this episode of the DiepCJourney podcast is focused on dense breasts. My guest is a patient advocate who carries this message to many after her own diagnosis. Siobhán Freeney shares the story of her diagnosis and why her tag line, "Your Breast Density Matters" has become a call to action for patients and clinicians alike. Patient advocacy is often born out of a diagnosis. What one experiences upon hearing you have breast cancer, often becomes a catalyst for change. Siobhán is beating the drum for dense breast awareness. Her call to action is early detection, regular self-breast exams, and being aware that dense breasts can potentially interfere with breast screening and what can be seen on mammograms. She discusses the various levels of breast density. Do check out her request form on her website, "Ask About Your Density." Siobhán and I dedicate this podcast to one of our own, Leigh Pate, who we lost in June of 2022 to cancer. Yes, Siobhán , we are standing on the shoulders of giants. Before her passing, I recorded an interview with her on the Lobular Breast Cancer you can listen to here: Lobular Breast Cancer.

Have you ever been overwhelmed as a breast cancer patient with terms pertaining to treatment and surgical options? Our topic today is breast sensation. Sensation in the breasts is vital for sexual health, as well as protection and safety for feeling heat. In this episode of the DiepCJourney podcast we are going to focus on two terms regarding breast sensation for those facing mastectomy: nerve preservation and nerve reconstruction. What is the difference between the two terms? When can these procedures be performed and my whom? Does every patient have access to these two types of nerve sensation surgery? My guests today are two leaders in the field of nerve preservation and nerve reconstruction. Anne Peled, MD, is a dual trained breast surgeon and plastic surgeon practicing in San Francisco, California. She was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of thirty-seven choosing to undergo a lumpectomy instead of a mastectomy because of great concern with being left numb. Dr Minas Chrysopoulo, MD, FACS, is a microsurgeon who performs breast reconstruction focusing on autologous tissue reconstruction, using the patient's own tissue. He is the president of PRMA in San Antonio and Founder of the free breast cancer app, Breast Advocate.com. Dr. Peled and Dr. Chrysopoulo have presented at webinars and conferences training colleagues globally on the techniques of nerve perseveration and nerve reconstruction surgery.

Surgical drains after breast surgery of any kind can present challenges for patients in terms of how to wear them under clothing, showering with surgical drains, and managing the tubing so it does not get caught on something and then pulling on the place of attachement to the patients body where the drains have a stitch to keep them in place. In the latest episode of the DiepCJourney podcast I interview the CEO and developer of the KILI Medical Drain Carrier Cinde Dolphin designed them with patients in mind after having #cancer four times herself and dealing with surgical drains in hospital. The lightweight drain carrier can be worn in the shower. Drain bulbs and the tubing can be tucked into the zippered pockets keeping them secure. Cinde shares the inspirational story of helping women near Mt. Kilimanjaro in Tanzania developing women entrepreneurs making beautiful cloth aprons that can also be used post-surgery. This is community and how the name Kili Drains got its name.

Benefits of exercise for those who are newly diagnosed, or in recovery and survivorship from cancer treatment is our topic on this episode of the DiepCJourney podcast. My guests, Karen Wonders, PhD, FACSM and Jay K. Harness, MD, FACS from the Maple Tree Cancer Alliance discuss the many benefits and program for exercise oncology developed by Dr. Wonders for Maple Tree. Dr. Wonders is the Founder and CEO of Maple Tree Cancer Alliance. This nonprofit organization provides free exercise training to thousands of cancer survivors across the globe in clinical settings. Karen utilized her years of education, research, training, and observing cancer patients who benefitted from exercise and shares evidence-based information and studies demonstrating the many benefits of exercise oncology. Dr. Jay Harness is the Chief Medical Officer of Maple Tree. He also hosts Breast Cancer Answers® on his dedicated YouTube channel. An accomplished breast surgeon and past president of the American Society of Breast Surgeons, he provides the medical expertise and research so essential to the Maple Tree Cancer Alliance mission.

There are thousands of people diagnosed with breast cancer every year. Some have a great desire to stay connected to a community they really never thought or wanted to be part of. But so often, friends are made, bonds are formed and there is a feeling of wanting to give back. The world of patient advocacy is broad. You can take a deep dive and spend a lot of time or choose to be a patient advocate in small ways. We guide you through this thought process on this episode of the DiepCJourney podcast. My two guests know a lot about the world of patient advocacy. Sandi Sanford and Denise M. Barlow have been with the Alamo Breast Cancer Foundation for a number of years. Through their advocacy work they have met other individuals and organizations that have broadened their network and ability to help others in the breast cancer and cancer community. Both survivors, they know first-hand the value of patient advocacy. We speak about their firsthand experiences. We share the following resources for others who may be interested in in exploring the possibility of participating as a patient advocate. There is also a link to apply for the Alamo Advocate Program Scholarship AACR: American Association for Cancer Research Alamo Advocate Program Scholarship: Application URL National Breast Cancer Coalition: NBCC Project LEAD San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium: SABCS 2022

When you are making a healthcare decision the words shared decision-making are valuable. Understanding the term shared decision-making and putting it into practice can present challenges for those who are not aware of the phrase. It can be an effective tool and method of communication in healthcare decisions. Shared decision making is when the patient and their healthcare team work as collaborative partners in determining the best care for the patient based on the patients' personal preferences, lifestyle, support, and values. On this episode of the DiepCJourney podcast I invite two guests who have developed digital healthcare apps specifically focused on the shared decision-making concept and practice. Both of my guests are recognized internationally for work in their respective fields. Michael Fergusson is the CEO and Founder of Ayogo Health, a Canadian Healthcare Technology company based in Vancouver, British Columbia. Dr. Minas Chrysopoulo, MD FACS, is a recognized expert in breast cancer reconstruction and the Founder of the Breast Advocate® app. He is the President of PRMA in San Antonio, Texas. Michael recognizes the complexities of human beings. The inspiration for his company, Ayogo, respects this complexity valuing the full participation of patients. Asymmetry can occur between patients and physicians when the process of shared decision-making takes place. This all takes time, reflection, and learning. His app, based on the shared decision-making model, allows patients the ability to invest in all three. Ayogo has twice been named on of the most innovative mobile health companies in the world and is consistently recognized by the industry as standard-setting for quality and innovation. Similarly, Dr. C's app guides a breast cancer patient from diagnosis through to the decisional process of surgical treatment. Co-created by patient advocates, healthcare professionals and specialists who treat breast cancer patients, the Breast Advocate® app is designed as a customizable shared decision-making tool to give patients the ability to understand what their full range of options are. Dr. Chrysopoulo will be presenting his work at the eleventh session of the World Urban Forum (WUF) in Katowice, Poland in June of 2022. He will meet with Mayors from around the world discussing sustainable solutions to the challenges in tackling breast cancer, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic. You can learn more about Michael's work at the website Ayogo. Learn more about Dr. Minas Chrysopoulo's work at Breast Advocate® app website. Both apps are available through the app store.

When you think about how you became an informed patient regarding breast reconstruction, was it by talking to other patients or through a consult with your plastic reconstructive surgeon? In this episode of the DiepCJourney Podcast, the discussion with two patient advocates and two internationally recognized microsurgeons reveals the power of global connections in breast reconstruction for patients and the importance of curating content based on best evidence and supportive patient care. My guests, Luan Lawrenson-Woods, Dr. Joe Dusseldorp, and Minas Chrysopoulo, MD, FACS explain how we have all become connected through social media. The information we have shared has become the driving factor behind our passion to educate those affected by breast cancer on a global scale, sharing information we each gain from listening to patients and finding resources and answers to their questions about breast reconstruction and the process of making a decision about what type of reconstruction to have, including no reconstruction or aesthetic flat closure.

Have you ever wondered why someone would choose the specialty of microsurgery? It takes years of dedicated training after medical school. Microsurgery restores form and function due to damage or loss of body part after an accident or disease. Our guest on this episode of the DiepCJourney podcast is Dr. Brian Bradow. He is a reconstructive plastic surgeon who practices in Colorado. Brian chats about his early interest in surgery as a young boy. He talks about the rigors of his profession and the importance of work-life balance. Brian discusses his work with breast cancer patients and restoring the nipple/areola area in a procedure called, "nipple sharing" in breast reconstruction. I connected with Brian on LinkedIn. You can find his LinkedIn account here.

When it comes to making decisions in your healthcare, my guest, Dr. Minas Chrysopoulo and I present the first in a series on the topic of shared decision-making this year on the DiepCJourney podcast. Toliman Health was founded by Dr. Minas Chrysopoulo, an internationally recognized expert in breast cancer reconstruction and shared decision-making. Dr. Chrysopoulo is the creator of Toliman's flagship app, Breast Advocate® As co-leads of the WHIS Shared Decision-Making Expert Group our goal is to facilitate the adoption and practice of shared decision-making (SDM) throughout healthcare systems and across all medical disciplines. The "why" of the informative approach to decisions in healthcare is multi-faceted. It encompasses the patient's preferences, values, support system, and expectations for outcomes. Connect with Dr. C on LinkedIn: Minas Chrysopoulo, MD, FACS

Kimberly Richardson, patient engagement expert, is our guest on this episode of the DiepCJourney podcast. Kimberly was diagnosed with a rare form of ovarian cancer called Granulosa Cell Tumor, Stage 3A. This experience had great impact on her life and she is now a tireless advocate for change. Kimberly applied for and received status as an NCCS Elevate Ambassador and launched an educational program for scientists and cancer survivors called, "Survivors Advising Scientists Educational Program" (SASEP). She believes in asking critical questions to improve the patient experience in cancer care. Kimberly encourages those who think they have been called to be advocates to explore this work and do it until you are proud of what you do! It is an honor to interview her.

We are discussing lobular breast cancer, also known as invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC), with Leigh Pate on the DiepCJourney podcast. Lobular breast cancer is the second most commonly diagnosed type of invasive of breast cancer. Often an understudied subtype of breast cancer I ask Leigh to join us today to help our listeners understand more about it. Leigh founded the Lobular Breast Cancer Alliance (LBCA) in 2017 and continues to work as a research advocate in the breast cancer and ovarian/fallopian tube cancer community. We encourage monthly self-exams. Leigh and I both had ILC and through self-exams were able to find our breast cancer. We speak about having imaging results interpreted at NCI-Designated Cancer Centers as ILC is often a breast cancer that is difficult to detect from breast cancer imaging.

On this episode of the DiepCJourney podcast I interview microsurgeons specific to and practicing at The Guys and St. Thomas. It is a hospital that is part of the NHS (National Health System) Trust in London, United Kingdom. These microsurgeons all work in an integrative setting for breast cancer patients and those affected by breast cancer with a genetic mutation placing them at higher risk of getting breast cancer. We talk about the process of offering all options of breast reconstruction for their patients, lymphedema surgery, working with patients of color and the affects melanated skin has on scars, the advantages, and disadvantages of social media in breast reconstruction, and what it means to be part of this team of microsurgeons working together for patients. The following surgeons can be found on LinkedIn: Mark Ho-Asjoe Ken Otuoke Maleeha Mughal Paul Roblin Marlene See Dr. Pari Mohanna's iformation can be found here: Pari-Naz Mohanna, Consultant plastic and reconstructive surgeon

Hil Moss is our guest on Season 2, Episode 5 of the DiepCJourney Podcast. A young breast cancer survivor (diagnosed at 28), Hil is an active patient advocate, mentor, and writer in the cancer community, and dedicates her time to raising awareness around the importance of early detection and longitudinal survivorship care. She is also an MBA/MPH Candidate at Yale University, with a focus on entrepreneurship & innovation in cancer care. She made the choice to leverage her own tissue to reconstruct her breasts having DIEP flap breast reconstruction. Hil shares her story from diagnosis, breast reconstruction, and through to her recovery. She shares her connection to the Breasties community and the advocacy work they share. Our call to action is to begin doing breast self-exams at an early age. A breast self-exam for breast awareness helps you understand at an early age the changes in your breasts tissue that includes the look and feel of your breasts. Breast cancer does not discriminate, even for young women. Beginning BSE (breast self-exams) at the age of 20 is recommended especially because younger women's breasts tend to present with more dense tissue, making it difficult to see lumps on a mammogram.

Zack Varkaris is a trained molecular biologist that has spent the last few years working on fertility issues for menopausal women and together with the rest of the Austin Biotec team has developed the concept of Freudenspanne©️ This is our topic on Season 2, episode 4 of the DiepCJourney podcast. I found Zack to be a philosopher of life. A creative individual who faces each day with his inquisitive, passionate nature, Zack has authored the book, The Veveliss Chronicles: The Crescent and the Cross. Who we meet in life, how we live our life, the foods we put in our body, exercise, our attitudes as we move through life changing events shapes our outlook and ability to deal with those changes. This was a fascinating conversation I will be listening to myself again to absorb the richness of this conversation.

Can you imagine hearing the words, "You have breast cancer" at the age of thirty? This is a time when many young women are planning their careers, starting a family, and fitting in travel plans and time with family. Ghecemy Lopez, DSW, MA Ed, was that young woman. Season 2 of the DiepCJourney podcast promises stories of strong advocate voices. Dr. Lopez is one of them. She is now the Program Manager and Lead Patient Navigator for the Ronnie Lippin Cancer Support and Navigation Program at USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center in Los Angeles, California. Dr. Lopez's life changing moment when she was diagnosed became a pivotal moment in her career as she turned to advocacy to listen to and support those who reach out to her to help them through their breast cancer diagnosis and survivorship. We celebrate with her the 11th year anniversary of her breast cancer diagnosis and hear the joy in her words as she offers others her time, with her heart. You can find Ghecemy on Facebook as she shares her advocacy tips and events for others on Facebook.

Dr. Don Dizon is our guest on seasons 2, episode 2 of the DiepCJourney podcast. What are we discussing? Sexual health needs after cancer, a topic patients often have to bring up to discuss with health care providers. Dr. Dizon tells us why this is the case, and empowers patients with information to talk about with specialists in cancer care regarding sexual health after cancer. Dr. Dizon is Director of the Pelvic Malignancies Program and Founder of the Sexual Health First Responders Program, Lifespan Cancer Institute Professor of Medicine at Brown University Providence, RI.

We are kicking off Season 2 with Episode 1 of the DiepCJourney podcast with Dr. Joe Dusseldorp, an internationally trained microsurgeon who performs DIEP flap breast reconstruction in Sydney, Australia. I first listened to Dr. Dusseldorp in his inspiring TEDx talk entitled, "Personalizing medicine - how technology is making the incurable curable". His passion for patient outcomes is apparent in this interview as he describes his work and how breast reconstruction awareness in Australia has become an important part of his mission.

As we wrap up season 1 of the DiepCJourney podcast for 2021, we look back to our most downloaded episode with guest Minas Chrysopoulo, MD, FACS discussing the value of ERAS (Enhanced Recovery after Surgery) protocol. This is a powerful discussion about ERAS and how it is used across other healthcare specialties to shorten hospital stay, requiring less narcotics, and improve recovery for patients. This is definitely worth listening to again, or downloading to empower patients considering breast reconstruction surgery or for those who might be having another surgery.