Living Hope – Details, episodes & analysis

Teona Ducre is a pancreatic cancer survivor who uses her personal journey to raise awareness about the disease, particularly within the Black community. Diagnosed in 2016, she empowers individuals to advocate for themselves and emphasizes the importance of early detection. As a member of PanCAN’s Survivor Council Alumni, she promotes genetic and biomarker testing to improve treatment outcomes and assess familial risk, appearing in public service campaigns to amplify her mission.

In celebration of National Survivor Month this episode is dedicated to Survivor Kay Kays who was diagnosed in 1994

Nourishing Wellness: Eating Healthy on the Cancer Journey with Nutritional Therapy and Breathwork Facilitator Andrea O'Donnell

Amy Reiss, Director of Patient Programs with the Hirshberg Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer Research joined Living Hope to talk about the 18th Annual Hirshberg Symposium taking place on April 13 at UCLA Luskin Conference Center.  Symposium topics include the latest in pancreatic cancer care, genetic testing, enzyme research, just to name a few.  There’s also a chance to ask questions of the experts and connect with survivors.  You can attend in person or virtually, go to pancreatic.org to register.

This episode is dedicated to Survivors Julie Lopp and Tom Arai

Thom Mrozek, a 12-year survivor of pancreatic cancer, diagnosed on the unique day of Leap Day. Thom's diagnosis day has become symbolic of his extraordinary journey—rare, remarkable, and filled with unexpected turns. As he celebrates each leap year, he also marks another year of survival, another year of making a difference, and another year of cherishing the gift of time. His story is a profound testament to resilience, courage, and the unwavering human spirit. 

This episode is dedicated to Tom Gregory and his wife Debbie. 

In this episode of Living Hope, we welcome Mike Greenstein, a committed advocate in the battle against pancreatic cancer, driven by his experience as a caregiver for his sister Jackie. Mike combines his business expertise with deep compassion in his work at Let's Win! Pancreatic Cancer, aiming to strengthen the network of support for patients and their families. He delves into the caregiver's view on recognizing a patient's struggles and discusses ways to assist his sister within this reality. Additionally, Mike highlights the vital role that coaches play in guiding families through the pancreatic cancer journey. Tune in for a heartfelt discussion on empathy, assistance, and united efforts towards hope.

"As long as you speak my name, I shall live forever" is dedicated to Jaclyn Hope Greenstein. Jackie is remembered for her spirit and profound love for her family and friends, she was the embodiment of courage. Facing her fears with unwavering bravery.  Her legacy of inspiration continues to touch lives daily.

Pamela Acosta Marquardt and Julie Fleshman have both been profoundly impacted by the loss of their parents to pancreatic cancer, which fueled their dedication to creating change. In 1996, Pam faced the loss of her mother after a six-month struggle with the disease. Confronted by the lack of resources and support for pancreatic cancer, she was driven to take action, ensuring that individuals and families affected by this illness would have access to vital information, resources, and hope. Similarly, Julie's journey at PanCAN was ignited by personal tragedy when she lost her father just four months following his diagnosis at the age of 52. Dissatisfied with the inadequate treatment options available, Julie has spent over two decades as a leader and a global catalyst for change, fighting for better outcomes for those facing pancreatic cancer. Together, their personal experiences have not only shaped their leadership at PanCAN but also exemplified their unwavering commitment to the cause.

While facts are critical to understanding and treating the disease, feelings are equally important in shaping the patient's experience and approach to care. The podcast serves as a reminder that in the face of a challenging diagnosis, the fusion of facts and feelings guides not just survival, but the quality of life.

Dr. Jose Trevino serves multifaceted roles one as the Surgeon-in-Chief at Virginia Commonwealth University Massey Cancer Center. He is dedicated to not only providing patient care and education but also contributing to the field of pancreatic cancer research.  Developing novel therapies and advancing research in health disparities related to pancreatic cancer are crucial efforts that can have a significant impact on improving outcomes for patients.  Clinical trials play a crucial role in advancing medical research and improving healthcare outcomes. We had a honest in depth talk with Dr. Trevino about the world of clinical trials.  

"I wanted to be the that person that was going to tackle the the biggest obstacles and you can't get a bigger obstacle than pancreatic cancer." Dr Trevino

"As long as you speak my name I shall live forever" is dedicated to Shana Stein and the others who have participated in a clinical trial with our deepest appreciation.

Sarah Banks from Hirshberg Foundation joins us to discuss her own mother's journey with Pancreatic Cancer.  Sarah Banks' personal connection to pancreatic cancer through her mother's journey likely provides a deeply heartfelt and insightful perspective. Her experience may offer a unique blend of personal and professional insights into the challenges faced by both patients and their families when dealing with this disease.

Jay shares his personal journey with pancreatic cancer. Such openness can be incredibly impactful for others facing similar challenges, offering them insight, guidance, and hope.