Explore every episode of the podcast Living with Cancer

Welcome to today’s episode, where we bring you an incredibly moving and inspiring story. Joining us is Lydia Staats, a 46-year-old wife and mother of two daughters, who has faced a battle few can imagine. Diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer in February 2022, Lydia’s journey has been one of incredible courage, resilience, and faith.

From enduring multiple rounds of chemotherapy, a mastectomy, and radiation delays due to systemic backlogs at Charlotte Maxeke Hospital, Lydia faced a recurrence in May 2023. Despite the setback, she underwent another round of intensive treatment and surgery, emerging stronger than ever. But Lydia’s story is more than just a personal battle—it’s a fight for thousands of cancer patients left waiting for critical care. As a voice for these patients, Lydia is actively involved in a court case against the Gauteng Department of Health, challenging the ongoing radiation crisis.

Today, Lydia shares her journey, her unwavering faith, and her passion for helping other breast cancer patients stay positive and keep fighting. Her story is one of hope, perseverance, and advocacy. We are honoured to have her with us, and we know her story will inspire and uplift you.

So, sit back and listen to Lydia Staats’ powerful testimony of strength, survival, and purpose.

Heidi, 53, diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukaemia, shares her inspiring story of determination and unwavering faith. Despite facing a challenging series of operations and treatments, her resilience and strength shine through, serving as a true testament to the power of hope and perseverance.

Heidi has been married to her loving husband for 11 years, although they have known each other for almost 40 years. Their long history together has led them to become involved with Marriage Ministries, believing that God offers second chances. They have one son together.

After working in finance (retail) for over 30 years, she was first diagnosed in 2020 during the Covid pandemic with Non-Hodgkins Follicular Lymphoma (grade 2) Stage 4 cancer. She was on a "Watch-and-Wait" approach for almost two years before being diagnosed in August 2022 with Acute Myeloid Leukaemia (AML) during a follow-up visit.

Over the past 14 months, she has spent 111 days in the hospital. Despite setbacks, including heart failure after the first two chemotherapy sessions and a relapse in June 2023, she remains strong and believes that God has a plan for her. She is now nearing a Stem Cell Transplant (SCT) and is actively trying to raise awareness about the importance of registering to become a donor. She emphasises that people can become donors without "giving up" their lives – one needs to be alive to be a donor.

An interview with Louise Turner is the Chief Operations Officer at Breast Health Foundation (BHF). In 2004, she was diagnosed with Breast Cancer.n“When I was diagnosed everything changed – a whole different world opened up for me. I met the most amazing people, because of breast cancer.”

As a firm believer in the starfish principle, Louise says her job is very satisfying. “I trust that our efforts will make a difference to someone, somewhere in the world. People don’t have to go through everything all by themselves with no support and no educational infrastructure, that’s why BHF is here!”

According to Louise South Africa’s social dynamics are such that, for every one woman who survives breast cancer, many more lives are affected positively. “That’s because there’s a husband or partner who is not widowed, children who are not orphaned, extended family members who are not grieving and countless friends who are educated.”

Louise’s advice to people diagnosed with breast cancer is that it too shall pass. “Breast cancer is just another bump in the journey – it’s hell, but you get through it. Live life, don’t simply exist!”

https://www.mybreast.org.za

An interview with Dr Chirantan Bose who discusses the work his organisation is doing with the latest technology and several years of extensive research to offer effective treatment solutions to cancer patients for whom, multiple lines of treatment have failed. Dr Bose brings not only hope to the world of cancer but insight that with early diagnosis that science provides multiple options to explore way to treat cancer patients.  In partnership with Data Cancer Genetics Ltd and Unique Diagnostics South Africa offer some exciting new cancer treatment options.

Dr Chirantan Bose MD, IFCAP (Intl Fellow Member - College of American Pathologists), Post Doc – Molecular Oncology (Univ of Pittsburgh Med Centre), Fellow - Clinical Genetics (Univ of South Wales, UK), MBA (IIT-Bombay), MBA (Washington Univ)

Director - Patient Care Services

Datar Cancer Genetics Limited

Gurgaon, India

Email: chirantan.bose@datarpgx.org

Mobile: +91-9963539171

Website: https://datarpgx.com/

An interview with Sandy Gordon who was diagnosed 1st November 2021 with pancreatic cancer.  Sandy is 39 years old and is a primary school teacher in Johannesburg.  Sandy named her cancer Dennis as she felt it was just easier to refer to him by name rather than “my cancer”. Sandy found out about Dennis when she was admitted to hospital with Pancreatitis. The doctors found lesions on her liver, which turned out to be metastasised Pancreatic Cancer. She is currently undergoing Chemotherapy at Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital and fighting to make sure she is cancer free by September. Sandy shares with us that she has  a wonderful army of supporters that keep her fighting. Sandy's motto  “One day, one fight at a time!”.  A moving but inspirational story which I was privileged to capture as part of our podcast series.

An interview with Oscar who was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma in 2019, shares his journey, fears and how he continues to keep his fight spirit in all he does.   Determination, his competitive nature and disciplined approach to life (exercise, fasting and positive attitude) has carried Oscar through many hours of chemotherapy and radiation.  Oscar's is a voice for cancer and believes cancer is not a death sentence! A true inspiration for us all!

"Success in the sports world started early for Oscar. He started competing internationally at age 14; made the National Surf Lifesaving Team at age 15; was the first person in the world to win both Junior and Senior Ironman, aged 15; played for KwaZulu-Natal Schools’ Rugby and SA Schools’ Water polo. He became the youngest canoe Springbok, at age 18, and was the Captain of the first SA Paddling Olympic Team in 1992. He went on to win the World Surfski Champs in Hawaii seven years in a row and then won it on another five occasions, the last being, in 2012. Oscar won his last international race at age 55. And, it doesn’t stop there, currently he coaches and travels to most of the races around the world. Plus, the 58-year-old still competes, even after a multiple myeloma (MM) diagnosis.  Oscar was first diagnosis with Multiple Myeloma and given 4 to 6 months to live, Oscar has openly shared his journey of radiation, chemotherapy and a bone marrow transplant with his loyal and supportive global fan base on his social media pages".  (Oncology Buddies)

Recommended books:

Tripping over the Truth: How the Metabolic Theory of Cancer Is Overturning One of Medicine's Most Entrenched Paradigms - Travis Christofferson

Oscar's new book to be launched - 15th August 2022 "No retreat - no surrender" 

An interview with Arthur who is an ex chartered accountant, who “got sold” on the benefits of Therapeutic Reflexology, when it provided him with a permanent solution to Crohn’s disease. This belief inspired him to augment his knowledge and critical thinking skills about well-being, with craniosacral therapy.  Arthur was also diagnosed with cancer in his eye, lost his eye sight in the one eye which lead him to change his career.  Arthur shares his journey with us.

Arthur has helped many people manage their health, vitality and energy – energy is the key to a happy, healthy life.  His method has been developed to solve health problems and improve the quality of peoples’ lives. The aim is to get patients to feel good. Patients receive personalised, effective lifestyle help to improve their health.

Arthur comes from a place where he really wants to make the world a better place and he has had the joy of serving many clients and improving their lives.

Rajes was diagnosed with Stage 3, High grade, B-Cell Non Hodgkin's Lymphoma in 2018. After undergoing treatment in India and then continuing her treatment in South Africa, Rajes is now in remission and lives a healthy and normal life.  Rajes shares how the extended process of trying to obtain a diagnosis and then with her will to survive explored some alternative treatment and life style changes.  Rajes says that for most cancer does not have a face until it's yours or someone you know.

Although cancer will always form part of her life she a warrior fighting spirit and believes that together with meditation, yoga, energy healing, prayer and maintaining self awareness you can fight any disease.  This interview will inspire anyone who has had to face a challenge that would seem insurmountable to most.  We thank Rajes to being brave enough to share her story that may raise awareness for other individuals who may be facing a journey of a similar nature.  

Powerful quote from Rajes "The concerted combined efforts towards a common goal showed the humanity of people and helped in my healing".  Rajes believes the its okay to question your doctors and to see knowledge as power.  Rajes shared that cancer may be part of her, but isn't the whole of her and it certainly does not define her.  

Nikki Seberini interviews Belinda Wagner on Chai FM

2021.11.18 – Belinda Wagner – How Belinda Wagner ensured her diagnosis of a rare cancer, Angiosarcoma, would not take control of her life – “My dream is to build a Patient Lead Cancer Registry”

An interview with Caren Martinis who was diagnosed with breast cancer,  a true warrior and an inspiration to us all!  Caren shares the emotional rollercoaster that a journey of this nature takes you through....

Caren Martinis, a 47 year old single working mother to a 13 year old son, was diagnosed with breast cancer last year February 2020 originally misdiagnosed with Lupis in  the January of the same year. In March Caren met Dr Carol Benn, it was at this point that her cancer journey started. A tumour was found in her right breast.  Post her MRI scans Caren was informed that she would need a complete a double mastectomy, nipple sparing, removal of lymph node and implants.

On 24th of March 2020 Caren was operated on at Milpark Hospital – 2 days before SA went into full lockdown.  The operation was successful the  tumour was removed, however they found traces of cancer in her lymph node.  Caren the met with Dr Mayet, an oncologist who recommended that she under went 10 sessions chemotherapy and 25 sessions radiation. She completed all the treatments by the end January 2021.  Caren believes she only managed to survive this journey through God’s grace, and the love and support from friends and family.  

Dr Elvira Singh shares her views on the Patient Led Cancer Registry that was launched on the 4th of February 2021.  Dr Singh “It is essential that cancer patients take up a central role in reporting their experience of cancer diagnosis and care in South Africa. Currently, the National Cancer Registry (NCR) reports on the numbers of cancer patients diagnosed in laboratories and hospitals around the country. A Patient Led Cancer Registry will be an invaluable partner in assisting the NCR to describe the burden of cancer in South Africa through the incorporation of patient-reported data into our incidence analysis,” said Dr Elvira Singh: Head: National Cancer Registry: National Health Laboratory Service.

GENERAL CONTACT DETAILS

Tel: +27 11 386 6400  (Switchboard) 
Fax: +27 11 882 0596

Street Address
1 Modderfontein Road
Sandringham
Johannesburg
2192

Postal Address
Private Bag X4
Sandringham
Johannesburg
2131
SOUTH AFRICA

Another interview with Charne Roux, a nutritionist focusing on nutrition for cancer, who provides insight to the what to eat, which vitamins and supplements you should be taking.  An informative podcast that will help you navigate your cancer journey before, during and after treatment.

Contact information:

Email: charne7roux@gmail.com

Whatsapp: 072 74 76 000

Instagram: @charneroux

In this insightful episode, we have the privilege of sitting down with Shaun Waison, a seasoned nutritionalist from Life Health SA, to explore the critical role of nutrition in the context of cancer care. Shaun sheds light on the profound impact of maintaining a healthy diet and leveraging vitamins and supplements to support the body throughout and post cancer treatments.

Join us as we delve into the nuances of how proper nutrition can play a pivotal role in enhancing the overall well-being of individuals undergoing cancer therapies. Shaun shares his expertise on the strategic use of vitamins and supplements, offering practical insights into optimising nutritional intake to bolster the body's resilience during the challenges of cancer treatment.

Throughout the conversation, Shaun addresses the specific needs of individuals navigating the intricate journey of cancer recovery. From understanding the importance of key nutrients to exploring personalised supplement regimens, this interview provides valuable information for anyone seeking to integrate nutrition as a cornerstone of their cancer care strategy.

Tune in for an engaging and informative discussion that underscores the significance of a balanced diet and targeted supplementation in promoting not just physical health but also overall vitality and resilience during and after cancer treatments. Whether you're a cancer patient, survivor, or simply interested in the profound impact of nutrition on health, this episode with Shaun Waison is sure to offer valuable insights and practical tips for cultivating a nourished and resilient body. For more information visit: https://www.lifehealthsa.com/

An interview with Charne Roux, a nutritionist focusing on nutrition for cancer, who provides insight to the what to eat, which vitamins and supplements you should be taking.  An informative podcast that will help you navigate your cancer journey before, during and after treatment.

Contact information:

Email: charne7roux@gmail.com

Whatsapp: 072 74 76 000

Instagram: @charneroux

Belinda Wagner was featured in The View Point SAfm Radio Station to discuss her journey with her rare cancer and her experiences along the way, inspiring many cancer worriers.

Episode 5 is includes an interview with Dr Durra, who provides some understanding and insight into the world of radiology.  Dr Durra explains the different types of test/scans, the process and the various roles during this diagnosis journey.  Dr Durra qualified MBChB from the University of Cape Town / Groote Schuur Hospital (UCT/GSH) in 1986 completing his internship there in 1987. This was followed by a 6 month senior house office (SHO) post in Paediatrics at Red Cross Children’s hospital in Cape Town.

After a brief period as a GP in Canada and locuming in London, UK, he returned to UCT/GSH taking up 6-month SHO posts in Emergency Medicine, Rheumatology and Cardiology in 1991/1992. He completed his registrarship in Radiology at the same institution qualifying in 1996. After 18 months as a Consultant in provincial service, he joined a private practice in Cape Town.

He has been in his current position as a Specialist Radiologist at Dr L Sulman and Partners since March 2004. Dr Durra has a special interest in Oncological imaging including the modalities of Ultrasound, CT and MRI. He is involved in a number of international Oncological drug trials which require CT or MRI monitoring of responses to new cancer drug treatments and has attended several conferences and investigators’ meetings.

His other main interests are Musculoskeletal MRI (including knees, shoulders, hips) and Neuroradiology and he has attended a number of related conferences including the internationally-accredited Stoller Orthopaedic and Sports Imaging MRI course and accompanying intensive workshop in San Francisco and the RSNA (Radiological Society of North America) meeting in Chicago,USA.

This episode includes an interview with Salomé Meyer and Linda Greeff from the Cancer Alliance.  They discuss the partnership with The Cancer Alliance and Living with Cancer, their views on how the patient led cancer registry is vital to enhance current cancer registry. The data that the LWC patient-led cancer registry collates will be added to the current National Cancer registry to look at cancer incidents and to improve planning for cancer services in South Africa in the long run.

Salomé Meyer is the project manager of Access to Medicine campaign. She is also one of the three co-owners of the Cancer Alliance, which is a collective group of cancer control non-profit organisations and cancer advocates brought together under a common mandate, to provide a platform of collaboration for cancer civil society to speak with one voice and be a powerful tool to affect change for all South African adults and children affected by cancer.

Contact details:

Work: 021 689 1942

Skype: salomemeyer

Twitter: @Cancer_ZA

Web: www.canceralliance.co.za

Linda Greeff is a private oncology social worker consultant, health advocate, palliative care social worker, grief counsellor, and one of the three co-owners of The Cancer Alliance. Linda is also one of our fierce overian cancer worrier and definatly an insperation to all as she shares her journey and experiences.

Contact Details:

Mobile: 082 551 3310

Email: info@lindagreeff.co.za

Website http://lindagreeff.co.za/

Candice Kushka, a physiotherapist who specialises in oncology rehabilitation and lymphoedema therapy. This podcast provides insights of how physiotherapy greatly impacts anyone that is undergoing a cancer journey. Learn about her experiences working overseas and with many different cancer patients. 

Contact Details: www.bryanstonphysiotherapy.co.za

011 463 0348 

info@bryanstonphysiotherapy.co.za

Interview with Christie Fraser - Look Good Feel Better

Program Director at Look Good Feel Better

An interview Christie Fraser who shares with us how the Look Good Fee Better team assist cancer patients to look good and feel better.

Cancer can rob a patient of their energy, appetite and strength but it need not take away their self-confidence.  The Look Good…Feel Better programme is the Cosmetic Industry helping cancer patients, undergoing active treatment, in a practical and positive way.  Look Good…Feel Better provides free two-hour beauty workshops through a network of hospitals, and oncology units, specially designed to assist patients to manage the appearance-related side effects of   chemotherapy & radiotherapy, thereby helping to restore their appearance & self-image.  Over 46 659 woman and men cancer patients have now attended a Look Good…Feel Better workshop at one of the 37 venues in 7 major cities in South Africa since the programme began in 2004.

Recommended book:

The Anatomy of Hope by Gerome Groopman

Back a buddy - Fund raiser:

https://www.backabuddy.co.za/be-their-hope

Look Good Feel Better Website link:

http://www.lgfb.co.za/

Welcome to our Living with Cancer podcast series.   The aim of these podcasts are to create a space where we can share knowledge, testimony, asked for advice and connect with other people living with cancer.  We will be interviewing experts in their field who work with cancer patients pre, during and post their treatment.  We will also be interviewing warriors where they will be sharing their own personal journeys with us, hopefully giving hope to anyone who has been newly diagnosed or is struggling with their cancer journey.

Meet Nancy, a courageous survivor of both Ovarian and Cervical Cancer. Not only is she the author of the autobiography "What if it Was Me?" but also a talented poet and short story writer, with some of her works published by Vine Leaves Press.

In addition to her literary pursuits, Nancy is a dedicated counsellor with a passion for helping individuals navigate through traumas, particularly those related to cancer, as well as other health issues, sexual assault, grief, marital struggles, and financial challenges.

Through her interview, Nancy generously shares her life journey, offering valuable insights into how she conquered cancer and triumphed over various life adversities. Her story is a powerful testament to resilience, illustrating how she has gracefully faced and overcome the obstacles life has presented to her. Nancy's narrative serves as an inspirational beacon for others facing similar challenges, showcasing the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

An interview with Colin Hall, a cancer warrior in the true sense of the word. At the age of 80 Colin shares how he has fought his Lymphoma not only with a positive attitude but he describes his journey as one that has taught him to reevaluate how he deals with challenging situations in life. Colin believes it is important to allow your family and friends to not only help you but also to love you. He shares how laughing has helped him through many dark days. Colin explains how he fought his cancer and continues to live his live with his "10 minute battery charging routine". He also believes that fighting cancer can be compared to charging a battery. Just as a battery needs to be charged to function properly, a person fighting cancer needs to undergo treatment to restore their health. Colin explains how replenishing energy is similar to how a battery stores energy, the body also has its own reserves of energy that can be replenished during cancer treatment. Proper nutrition, rest, and exercise can help the body regain strength and energy during and after treatment.

A book recommendations from Colin that provided him with insight and comfortable to overcome cancer:

https://radicalremission.com/about-the-books/

Colin's 10 minute energy recharger secret:

https://ltl.co.za/a-ten-minute-energy-recharger/

An interview with Lisha, a cancer survivor that was diagnosed with papillary carcinoma at the age of 25. Lisha was living aboard at the time however returned to SA for her treatment which included a thyroidemctomy and radioactive therapy. Soon after her treatment Lisha went back to London to continue her life, which proved to be challenging as she struggled to heal properly. After an injury Lisha made the decision to return back to South Africa and now 15 years later has taken a holistic view if her life. Lisha is an Art of Living practioner who believes that it is really important to not only focus on your eating, exercise and general healthy routine. Lisha shares how it is just as important to have a strong mental outlook but also using breathing to help control her emotional and remove toxins out of her body. Lisha shares how her routine includes meditation and yoga which has changed her life where is is living cancer free.

Professor Monica Singer CA (SA) - Consensys senior strategy and Advisory Board Member at Global Digital Asset & Cryptocurrency Association

Monica was diagnosed in 2022 with breast cancer, she shares how cancer has impacted her life and how prevent is so much better than cure.  Monica believes that stress the cause her cancer, although there being a family history of cancer should she have been advised differently she feels she could have put measures in place to prevent her current situation.  Monica treatments include chemotherapy for the rest of her life which she has embraced by ensuring her daily routine includes healthy eating, mediation, exercise and vitamins.   Monica shares her childhood trauma has impacted her diagnosis and now is determined to continue to leave all that in the past and focus on living the best possible life she can.  A inspiring and raw interview with a remarkable lady who wants everyone to know her story so she can help others.

An interview with Jean Pionaar, National Operations Manager, Zebra Medical.  Jean is a registered nurse, who has worked 16 years in ICU.  Jean shares how she has been working for Zebra past 17 years. We are passionate about all things in the oncology/vascular access space. Our mantra is: Right line, Right patient, Right treatment, Right time.

https://zebramedical.com/

An interview with Gill Kretzschmar who has been on both sides of the fence: first as a caregiver to her late husband who battled cancer for four years and then as a cancer survivor of stage three melanoma. I had the pleasure of chatting to Gill about her journey where she shared how she has dedicated her life to giving back to the cancer community in the most profound way.  I urge you to purchase a copy of her book that is both heartwarming and inspiring.   

 Gill has a degree in psychology and she has held leadership roles in Christian ministry. She is a successful business owner and a proud mom of two sons. Gill facilitates support groups for cancer sufferers and caregivers.  Gill is passionate to share her Christian faith to inspire and encourage others to receive God’s healing at a spiritual, emotional and physical level.  “I have learnt that living in the peace of God defeats anxiety, depression and fear. To overcome cancer and meet the challenges of life, Jesus is the anchor for my soul. He keeps me firm and steadfast.”.

“ WHERE TO FROM HERE?”

“Anchor for cancer” is life changing, enriching and empowering!

This book offers you and your loved ones emotional and spiritual support, practical tips and tools to equip you to walk the journey through cancer.  Replace fear and worry with God’s peace. Receive hope and build faith.   Be guided to manage stress. Anchor in prayer and God’s Word.  Increase your emotional awareness and take care of your thought life.  Release buried hurts and receive new insights. Focus on the healing power of forgiveness.

Readers’ comments:

“Anchor for cancer“ is exactly what our society needs!”

“A life saver in the middle of adversity!”

Gill Kretzschmar has been on both sides of the fence: first as a caregiver to her late husband who battled cancer for four years and then as a cancer survivor of stage three melanoma.

Gill has a degree in psychology and she has held leadership roles in Christian ministry. She is a successful business owner and a proud mom of two sons. Gill facilitates support groups for cancer sufferers and caregivers.

Gill is passionate to share her Christian faith to inspire and encourage others to receive God’s healing at a spiritual, emotional and physical level.

“I have learntthat living in the peace of God defeats anxiety, depression and fear. To overcome cancer and meet the challenges of life, Jesus is the anchor for my soul. He keeps me firm and steadfast.”

“Anchor for cancer “supports an online course which includes videos of healing testimonies from cancer survivors and dynamic feedback sessions.

To register: please visit our website www.anchorforcancer.co.za

An interview with Andrew Oberholzer, The Prostate Cancer Foundation NPC which was established in 2005 as a non-profit-company. Andrew shares how this foundations aim is to minimise the impact that prostate cancer has on South African men and their families. They do this by providing forums for:

• Healthcare professionals, who diagnose, treat and research prostate cancer on a daily basis through our Medical and Scientific Advisory Board
• Prostate Cancer Patients, their families and volunteers who want to make a difference in the lives of those who have been affected by prostate cancer through our patient affairs board
• Corporate Members who want to assist by providing financial resources and marketing expertise through our marketing and strategic planning board

It is through the involvement of the medical specialists who research and treat prostate cancer, the companies that develop the treatments, and the patients and their families affected by the disease that makes their organisation unique and enables them to assist with  fighting the disease from all angles.

Visit their site to find out more and to get involved in some of their events:  https://prostate-ca.co.za/about/

Explore the insights of Greta, a dedicated SCIO therapist, as she delves into the transformative world of SCIO therapy and its profound impact on cancer treatment. Greta harnesses the power of SCIO to restore equilibrium within the body, ultimately amplifying the innate healing capabilities of the human system.

In the realm of Quantum Physics, SCIO emerges as a cutting-edge tool, adept at pinpointing and rectifying energetic imbalances. Through its advanced scanning capabilities, SCIO meticulously examines the body, detecting everything from pathogens to mental and emotional irregularities. The pivotal biofeedback function of SCIO then channels hundreds of frequencies directly into the body, creating a holistic approach to healing.

In the context of cancer treatment, SCIO's unique methodology plays a crucial role. By identifying and correcting energetic imbalances, it offers a complementary approach that aligns with the body's natural healing processes. Greta's expertise with SCIO sheds light on the potential benefits of integrating this advanced technology into cancer care, fostering a comprehensive and personalised approach to treatment. Explore the insights of Greta, a dedicated SCIO therapist, as she delves into the transformative world of SCIO therapy and its profound impact on cancer treatment. Greta harnesses the power of SCIO to restore equilibrium within the body, ultimately amplifying the innate healing capabilities of the human system.

In the realm of Quantum Physics, SCIO emerges as a cutting-edge tool, adept at pinpointing and rectifying energetic imbalances. Through its advanced scanning capabilities, SCIO meticulously examines the body, detecting everything from pathogens to mental and emotional irregularities. The pivotal biofeedback function of SCIO then channels hundreds of frequencies directly into the body, creating a holistic approach to healing. In the context of cancer treatment, SCIO's unique methodology plays a crucial role. By identifying and correcting energetic imbalances, it offers a complementary approach that aligns with the body's natural healing processes. Greta's expertise with SCIO sheds light on the potential benefits of integrating this advanced technology into cancer care, fostering a comprehensive and personalised approach to treatment.

Contact Greta on: (083) 443 3008 or gretagraham54@gmail.com

Podcast Interview with Mike Hogan: A Journey of Resilience and Hope

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Mike Hogan, a busy executive whose life took an unexpected turn when he was diagnosed with oesophageal cancer on 4 March 2022. After enduring multiple operations and years of digestive issues, it took three months for doctors to finally pinpoint his condition.

Mike shares his deeply personal journey—from the challenges of delayed diagnosis to navigating treatment and maintaining his professional and personal life. His story sheds light on the importance of persistence in seeking medical answers, the realities of living with cancer, and the resilience it takes to keep moving forward.

Tune in to hear Mike’s inspiring insights on facing adversity, finding strength in uncertainty, and the lessons he has learned along the way.

Experienced Epidemiologist with a demonstrated history of working in public health research settings. Skilled in Epidemiology, Prevention, Healthcare, Clinical Research, and Data Analysis. Strong healthcare services professional with a PhD focused in Biomedical Sciences (Epidemiology of HIV-related cancers in South Africa) from Universität Bern.

In this episode of Beyond the Diagnosis, we sit down with Julianne Yates, a psychologist dedicated to supporting cancer patients, their families, and friends throughout their journey. Julianne provides both home visits and virtual sessions, ensuring that patients have access to the emotional and psychological support they need, no matter where they are.

Our conversation explores the importance of open communication and honesty when facing a cancer diagnosis, as well as how therapy can be a powerful tool for healing both during and after treatment. Julianne shares insights into the unique emotional challenges cancer patients face, the cycle of grief, and how therapy can help navigate the complex emotions of fear, uncertainty, and hope.

Every cancer journey is different, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to healing. Whether it’s processing trauma, managing anxiety around scans, or supporting families through difficult moments, Julianne highlights the value of tailored psychological support.

Tune in for a compassionate and insightful conversation on the role of therapy in the cancer journey and why emotional well-being is just as important as physical recovery.

In this episode of the Beyond Diagnosis podcast, Dr Belinda Wagner speaks with Gabi Lowe, founder of The Coaching Nest and one of South Africa’s most respected voices in personal resilience and conscious leadership. Gabi supported her husband, Stuart Lowe, through his cancer journey, an experience that sits alongside her wider story of navigating profound loss, advocacy, and reinvention.

With decades senior experience in media, marketing and retail, Gabi brings a rare combination of corporate insight and deep emotional intelligence to her work. Her coaching approach is rooted in lived experience, compassion and an integral methodology that draws on the heart, body and mind. Today she works with leaders, executives and individuals seeking clarity, resilience and purposeful growth.

Gabi’s journey includes her family’s advocacy around Rare Diseases, the founding of the Jenna Lowe Trust, and her transition into becoming a professionally qualified personal and leadership development coach. Her story is one of courage, meaning-making and choosing to lead a full and authentic life, even in the face of devastating loss.

This conversation explores what it truly means to navigate adversity, support loved ones through illness, and rebuild a life with intent.

In this episode of the Beyond Diagnosis podcast, Dr Belinda Wagner speaks with Lisha Nunan, a papillary carcinoma survivor whose story offers a meaningful look at how cancer reshapes the way we see, feel and inhabit our own bodies. Diagnosed at the age of twenty-five while living abroad, Lisha returned to South Africa for a thyroidectomy and radioactive therapy before heading back to London to rebuild her life. What followed was far more complex than she expected. Healing was slow, her body felt unfamiliar, and an injury ultimately led her back home to start again with a completely different lens.

Today, fifteen years later, Lisha is the founder of Shira Wellness and a certified Sri Sri Yoga Teacher and Art of Living Trainer. She brings together her background in corporate finance and FMCG operations with a deeply grounded approach to holistic wellbeing, transformation coaching and breathwork. Her story is layered, honest and anchored in the emotional and physical realities many survivors face long after treatment ends.

In our conversation, Lisha speaks openly about body betrayal, long-term fatigue, chronic discomfort and the quiet emotional toll survivors often carry. She shares practical ways to reconnect with the body through breathing, meditation, movement and mental discipline. She also highlights why healing is not only about nutrition, routine or fitness, but about strengthening the mind and using breath to release emotional toxins and rebuild trust in the body.

This episode explores self-image, societal expectations, recovery, resilience and what it truly takes to live fully in a body forever changed by cancer

In this episode of the Beyond Diagnosis podcast, Dr Belinda Wagener speaks with Dumisani Pakkies, a prostate cancer survivor from uMlazi whose voice has become a driving force in men’s health advocacy in South Africa. Diagnosed with stage three prostate cancer in 2020 with no symptoms at all, Dumisani’s journey is a powerful reminder that early detection is not optional, it is lifesaving.

A qualified accountant, Dumisani faced an unexpected and aggressive diagnosis that led him into intensive treatment, including androgen deprivation therapy, brachytherapy and external beam radiation. He has been in remission since 2022. Instead of stepping back after recovery, he stepped forward. Through his movement, Against All Odds, he shares his story to challenge stigma, dismantle myths and reach the men who are least likely to get screened but most at risk.

Dumisani speaks openly about the barriers Black men face in accessing cancer information, including cultural beliefs, silence and misconceptions. His advocacy has taken him into communities, awareness runs, and partnerships with organisations such as the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health and the Prostate Cancer Foundation South Africa. His message is simple and unwavering: men cannot wait for symptoms. Testing saves lives.

This conversation explores survival, purpose, masculinity, cultural stigma and what it takes to turn a personal battle into a national call for action

In this deeply personal episode of Beyond the Diagnosis, Dr Belinda Wagner speaks with Machuene Sejeng, a cancer warrior diagnosed in 2023 with invasive ductal carcinoma stage 3 breast cancer, both oestrogen and progesterone receptor positive.

Machuene opens up about the often unspoken physical and emotional challenges that come with a cancer diagnosis particularly how the disease and its treatment impact body image, identity, fatigue, and chronic pain. She shares her experience of navigating drastic changes to her body and how these shifts affected her sense of self, strength, and femininity.

Together, Dr Wagner and Machuene explore the emotional weight of feeling betrayed by your own body, and the mental resilience it takes to continue showing up in a body that feels unfamiliar. This conversation is a powerful reminder that healing is not just physical—it is emotional, psychological, and deeply personal.

Tune in for a raw, honest, and empowering conversation that sheds light on the lived reality of cancer survivors.

A colo-rectal cancer diagnosis in 2016 changed Faizel Jacobs’ life forever, but it did not define him. Cancer left him with a permanent stoma, something many see as a burden—but Faizel has embraced it as his daily reminder of survival. Affectionately naming his stoma and bag "Dolce & Gabbana," he has transformed what many consider a limitation into a symbol of resilience and purpose.

Adjusting to life with a stoma wasn’t easy, and much of what Faizel learned was through trial and error. But through this journey, he also discovered a greater issue—the lack of consistent stoma care and support. Recognizing the urgent need for better resources, education, and advocacy, he founded SASS (South African Stoma Support), a community built by stomates, for stomates. The organisation fights for minimum standards in ostomy care and holistic support, ensuring that others navigating life with a stoma don’t have to do it alone.

In this episode, Faizel shares how he turned pain into purpose, why advocacy matters, and how finding meaning in survivorship can create lasting impact. Join us for an inspiring conversation on resilience, acceptance, and the power of community.

When cancer treatment ends, the battle is far from over. In this debut episode of Beyond the Diagnosis, we dive into the unspoken realities of survivorship the lingering mental and physical struggles, the emotional weight of uncertainty, and the challenges that persist long after remission.

Joining us is Tumi, a colon cancer survivor and advocate, whose diagnosis in 2020 reshaped her life’s purpose. Now serving as Regional Director for the Global Colon Cancer Association, she shares her deeply personal journey how she turned her pain into advocacy, the struggles she faced beyond treatment, and why she fights for better support at the grassroots level.

This raw, unfiltered conversation challenges the glossy narratives of survivorship and sheds light on what it really means to live beyond the diagnosis. Tune in for an eye-opening discussion on resilience, advocacy, and the truths that often go unspoken.

Cancer does not end when treatment does. Beyond the Diagnosis is a raw, unfiltered look at the realities of survivorship the loneliness, the fear, the exhaustion, the financial strain, and the identity shifts no one talks about.

This podcast goes beyond the headlines and pink ribbons to share the honest, untold stories of those living after cancer. Through survivor experiences, expert insights, and real-time reflections, we explore what it truly means to navigate life beyond a diagnosis.

Because survivorship is not just about resilience it’s about what cancer takes, what it changes, and how we move forward in its wake.

n this episode of What Cancer Reveals, Dr Belinda Wagner speaks with her oncologist, Dr Trudy Smith, the specialist who finally provided answers after months of uncertainty.

Dr Smith is an Obstetrician, Gynaecologist and Gynaecological Oncologist, trained at the University of the Witwatersrand with further experience in gynaecological oncology in London. She now practises at Wits Donald Gordon Medical Centre and is actively involved in training future specialists, while advocating for the prevention of cervical cancer.

Together, they unpack the importance of second opinions, understanding cancer spread, and the difficult decisions patients are forced to make. The conversation also explores the emotional impact on doctors, the intensity of surgery, emerging treatments like cyber radiation, and why cancer is not a death sentence.

In this episode, Dr Belinda Wagner sits down with Moira Keymer, whose cancer journey began 23 years ago with a breast cancer diagnosis that would not only challenge her physically, but reshape her understanding of health, faith and personal responsibility. Moira speaks about her experience through a deeply personal lens, describing her diagnosis as a calling from God, a test of faith that required her to confront fear, uncertainty and the unknown. Rather than allowing the experience to define her negatively, she chose to engage with it with intention and belief.What makes her story particularly powerful is what unfolded alongside her cancer diagnosis. Through the process, she uncovered an underlying autoimmune condition, something that may have remained undetected without that moment of intervention. For Moira, this became part of a broader realisation that sometimes the most difficult experiences can reveal what needs attention in our lives.A central theme in this conversation is the importance of early detection and timely diagnosis. Moira speaks candidly about how critical it is to act early, to pay attention to your body, and not to delay seeking medical advice. Her message is clear, awareness is not optional, it is essential.She also highlights the importance of trusting healthcare providers while remaining actively engaged in your own care. This is not about passive acceptance, but about informed partnership. Moira encourages patients and families to ask questions, seek clarity, and take the time to understand their condition.Research and communication are recurring threads throughout the discussion. She emphasises that no one should feel intimidated to speak up, whether it is asking for a second opinion, discussing treatment options, or simply reaching out for support. Silence, she suggests, can often be more harmful than the diagnosis itself.This episode is not only about surviving cancer. It is about perspective, faith, and the responsibility we carry in our own health journeys. Moira’s story is a reminder that knowledge, communication and early action can fundamentally change outcomes, and that even in life’s most difficult moments, there is an opportunity for deeper understanding and growth.

In this episode, we sit down with Richard Keymer, who serves as the Security Lead for Living with Cancer SA, not just as a volunteer, but as someone deeply connected to the reality of cancer.

Richard’s story is not theoretical. It is lived.

He shares his personal journey of supporting multiple family members through cancer, including both his parents, his nephew, and his sister-in-law. Through these experiences, he has witnessed the complexity, the uncertainty, and the emotional weight that cancer brings into a family.

What stands out in this conversation is not only the scale of what he has faced, but how he has chosen to respond.

Richard speaks openly about why he continues to show up and contribute to Living with Cancer SA. His perspective is grounded in responsibility, empathy, and a clear understanding that support systems matter, not just for patients, but for families navigating the journey alongside them.

From his role in security and governance within the organisation, to his personal reflections on resilience and presence, this episode offers a different lens on cancer. One that highlights the unseen roles, the quiet strength, and the people who stand behind the scenes ensuring others are protected, supported, and not alone.

This is a conversation about service, perspective, and the kind of leadership that is shaped not in boardrooms, but in real life moments that demand courage and consistency.

In this episode of What Cancer Reveals, the focus shifts to the decisions cancer forces people to make, long after treatment ends.

Jason, a busy executive known for his discipline, privacy and active lifestyle, steps into a space of vulnerability rarely seen inleadership contexts. In this conversation, he shares his experience of navigating prostate cancer and the complex, often unspoken decisions that followed.

While treatment is often positioned as the defining moment in a cancer journey, Jason reveals that some of the hardest decisions come afterwards. Decisions that carry weight, permanence and uncertainty. Decisions about work, identity, relationships and what life looks like moving forward.

He reflects on how much of this process had to be figured out alone, with limited guidance and no clear roadmap. The choices he faced were not always clinical, but deeply personal, shaped by fear, fatigue and the pressure to return to normal.

Through his story, this episode explores the reality that survivorship is not a clean endpoint. It is a space filled with ongoing decisions, many of which feel irreversible at the time they are made.

Jason also challenges a common misconception. That once treatment is complete, the journey is over. Instead, he highlights the quiet complexity of what comes next and the support that is often missing when patients need it most.

This episode reveals that cancer is not only about survival. It is about the choices that define how life continues afterwards.

The first episode of What Cancer Reveals explores one of the most profound shifts cancer brings into people’s lives: the way it changes our relationship with time.

In this deeply personal conversation, Brenda Errayah reflects on the loss of her mother, Connie, eight years ago. Over the course of six difficult months, Brenda witnessed the painful transformation of a woman she had always known as strong and invincible into someone gradually diminished by illness. What was once certainty slowly gave way to fragility, forcing Brenda and her family to confront the reality that time can change suddenly and without warning.

Through Brenda’s story, this episode explores how cancer reshapes the way families experience time. Moments that once felt ordinary become precious, while the future that once seemed predictable becomes uncertain. Brenda speaks openly about the emotional weight of watching a loved one decline, the helplessness many families feel during this process, and the lasting impact those months leave behind.

Yet her reflection also carries an important message about connection. Brenda emphasises that cancer is never experienced by one person alone. It is a journey that affects families, friends and communities. During times of illness and loss, she believes people need to come together, to support one another and to stand alongside those facing unimaginable change.

This episode sets the tone for the series by revealing that cancer does more than challenge the body. It changes how we measure life, how we hold the people we love, and how we understand the value of time.

Friendships and family relationships are often deeply affected by a cancer diagnosis. In this episode, Tamlyn Wessels shares her personal journey from discovering a lump to facing aggressive triple negative breast cancer while simultaneously preparing to say goodbye to her terminally ill father. Through chemotherapy, major surgery, radiation, and profound grief, she reflects on the friendships that faded, the bonds that strengthened, and the boundaries she had to learn to protect her healing. This honest conversation explores abandonment, resilience, meaningful support, and what survivors truly need from those around them. It is a powerful reminder that cancer does not only test the body, it reveals the true depth of human connection.

Diagnosed with colon cancer at 19 and breast cancer in 2020, Nicole Adams is now five years in remission. Her journey has been tough and life changing, yet she speaks with honesty, faith and calm acceptance.

In this episode of Beyond the Diagnosis, Nicole shares what it means to live with the long term realities of cancer, to remain vulnerable in the workplace, and to keep moving forward even on the hard emotional days. This is a raw and real conversation about resilience, support and choosing how you live beyond the diagnosis.

This is not a story about diagnosis.

It is about what it takes to keep living while cancer becomes part of your everyday life.

In his second conversation on Beyond the Diagnosis, Oscar Chalupsky speaks candidly about treatment, identity, leadership and the cost and power of staying visible.

This is a conversation for anyone asking what now after the shock has passed.

Watch the full episode and be reminded that living with cancer does not mean disappearing.