Kidney Cancer Unfiltered: A Conversation with the Scaccia Family
In this deeply personal final episode of season 2 of Kidney Cancer Unfiltered, host Annamaria Scaccia sat down with her partner Sam and son Kelly to reflect on their shared journey through her two cancer diagnoses: chromophobe renal cell carcinoma in 2020 and papillary thyroid carcinoma in 2023. Around the kitchen table, they have an open and emotional conversation about the fears, guilt, and love that have shaped their lives as a family navigating cancer together.
Sam shared the challenges of caregiving, from struggling to provide hope during Annamaria’s first diagnosis to finding better ways to emotionally support her the second time around. Kelly opened up about his fears of losing his mom. And Annamaria reflected on her ongoing guilt — feeling like her experiences weren’t “enough” because her cancer wasn’t more advanced — and the emotional weight of feeling like a burden to her family.
It’s a powerful reminder of the importance of communication, compassion, and connection. For survivors, caregivers, and families, this episode is a relatable and comforting reminder that love and healing happen when we share our stories.
Follow Annamaria:
- Instagram: @stillwellfitness
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For those seeking support and further resources, the Kidney Cancer Association offers:
- A Patient Navigator Program to guide patients through their journey
- Various support groups, including a Facebook support group, where patients and their families can find community and understanding.
- Additionally, the KCA blog is an excellent place to connect with others and stay informed.