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Episode 6 of Kidney Cancer Unfiltered takes a personal turn as guests John Ferrell, a kidney cancer patient, and Nichole Goble from the Caregiver Action Network join host Annamaria Scaccia to discuss the profound impact of kidney cancer on relationships. This episode, titled "Intimacy and Relationships," delves into the themes of intimacy, support, and the strength found in connection. John…

In Episode 5 of the Kidney Cancer Unfiltered podcast, host Annamaria Scaccia continued her discussion on kidney cancer at a young age with guest Melissa Helmick. Melissa’s story of resilience and determination provided powerful insights into navigating the emotional landscape of a cancer diagnosis as a young adult. Melissa emphasized the importance of finding personal outlets to process emotions, encouraging…

In Episode 4 of the Kidney Cancer Unfiltered podcast, host Annamaria Scaccia spoke with Jason Hinojosa about the unique challenges of facing kidney cancer as a young adult. This episode highlighted Jason's journey and the specific difficulties younger patients encounter. Jason shared his personal story, emphasizing the importance of community and support. His reminder that "you're not in this alone"…

In Episode 3 of the Kidney Cancer Unfiltered podcast, host Annamaria Scaccia welcomed Lauren Burling, MSS, LCSW, from the Cancer Support Community, to continue discussions on how to manage the emotional challenges of a kidney cancer diagnosis. This episode, titled "Managing Emotions (Part 2)," provided essential strategies and support recommendations for navigating the emotional rollercoaster that comes with the disease.…

In Episode 2 of the Kidney Cancer Unfiltered podcast, “Managing Emotions (Part 1), host Annamaria Scaccia spoke with Steven and Lisia Edwards about the complexities of managing emotions during a kidney cancer diagnosis. Steven shared his journey as a kidney cancer patient, emphasizing how simple words like “I’m sorry to hear that” can offer profound comfort. Lisia discussed the crucial…

In the debut episode of the Kidney Cancer Unfiltered podcast, host Annamaria Scaccia sat down with Tracy Poyneer, who shared her deeply personal journey following her kidney cancer diagnosis. Tracy’s story was one of resilience and strength, offering listeners a candid look into the emotional and physical challenges faced by those affected by this disease. The conversation between Tracy and…

The 82K Regional Challenge: Oregon team. Team Captain - Lindsay Walker, teacher and kidney cancer survivor Location - Tualatin Community Park in Tualatin, Oregon Date - April 13, 2024 Attendees - About 60 Fundraising Goal - $8,200 Amount raised - $34,542 (I still can’t believe it!) Activity - “Choose Your Own Adventure” i.e., do anything for 82 minutes! There is…

This is a guest post by Heather Williams, 25, an ER nurse who was diagnosed with renal medullary carcinoma. She lives with her husband Josh and daughter Indy in North Carolina. Heather Williams with husband Josh and daughter Indy. In November of 2021 I married the love of my life. We had a great first year of marriage and hoped…

Dr. Salvatore La Rosa, KCA Chief Scientific Officer Welcome to our new blog series where we distill the latest in kidney cancer clinical trials into essential updates for patients, caregivers, and those tracking advancements in this field. With 87 new interventional studies since January 2023, the research landscape is vibrant and full of potential. Here, we translate complex research into…

This is a guest post by Dawn Dyson, 37, who was diagnosed with translocation renal cell carcinoma in 2022. Dawn was a recent speaker at the KCA’s 2024 International Kidney Cancer Symposium: Europe in Sitges, Spain on April 18-20, sharing her own kidney cancer story. She lives with her husband and two sons in England. Dawn Dyson with her family.…