The Hidden Battle: Lung Cancer Stigma and the Power of Speaking Up
In this special re-release of Hope With Answers, lung cancer advocate Jill Feldman tackles a challenge that most patients never see coming—stigma. Originally aired in January 2020, this candid and emotional episode sheds light on the damaging assumptions patients face and how words can wound, even when well-intentioned.
From doctors and friends to complete strangers, the first question many patients hear is: “Did you smoke?” It's a question that implies blame—and lung cancer survivors like Jill Feldman have heard it far too often. In this episode, Jill teams up with journalist Steven Petrow to unpack the emotional toll of these encounters and offer advice on how to respond with grace and strength.
You'll also hear from Dr. Alice Berger, a lung cancer researcher investigating why young, non-smoking women are increasingly being diagnosed with lung cancer. Her work helps shift public perception and challenges outdated assumptions about who gets lung cancer—and why.
This episode explores:
The real impact of stigma on lung cancer patients
How language shapes the patient experience
What not to say to someone with lung cancer
How empathy and civility can reshape conversations
Groundbreaking research on lung cancer in non-smokers
Whether you're a patient, caregiver, or advocate, this episode will change the way you think—and talk—about lung cancer.
Show Notes | Transcript | Watch Video
--------
52:21
The First 7 Days: The First 7 Days: Creating A Personalized Treatment Plan
Originally aired in May 2020, this final episode of The First 7 Days podcast series provides newly diagnosed lung cancer patients with crucial guidance on developing a personalized treatment plan. Building on the foundations established in previous episodes about finding the right medical team and understanding diagnostic testing, this concluding installment helps transform overwhelming information into actionable steps forward.
The landscape of lung cancer treatment has evolved dramatically, extending far beyond traditional chemotherapy. This episode navigates the expanding array of treatment options, including surgery, radiation therapy, targeted therapies, immunotherapy, and combination approaches. Listeners will learn how biomarker testing influences treatment selection and understand the potential role of clinical trials in their care plan.
Featured thoracic oncologists and patient advocates share valuable insights about:
How treatment decisions are made
Key factors influencing treatment selection
The role of biomarker testing in personalizing treatment
When to seek second opinions
Strategies for coordinating care across medical teams
While focused on the initial weeks after diagnosis, this episode sets the stage for long-term cancer management by providing practical tools and resources for ongoing decision-making.
Gain confidence in working collaboratively with your healthcare team while advocating for your needs throughout the treatment journey.
Guests
Dr. David Carbone, Oncologist at The Ohio State University
Transcript | Show Notes | Watch video
Resources
Download the First 7 Steps to share.
Subscribe to Hope With Answers Living With Lung Cancer podcast for future episodes on your favorite listening platform.
Apple Podcast | Spotify | Amazon Play | iHeart
Join LCFA’s social media communities for support and information.
Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube
--------
24:04
The First 7 Days: Why a Second Opinion Can Save Your Life
A lung cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but getting a second opinion could be a game-changer in your treatment journey. In this episode of the Hope With Answers: Living With Lung Cancer podcast, thoracic oncologist Dr. David Carbone, along with lung cancer survivors and advocates, discusses why seeking a second opinion—especially from a specialist at a university-based center—can provide access to cutting-edge treatments and clinical trials.
Lung cancer advocates share their personal experiences, emphasizing the importance of self-advocacy and finding a doctor who values additional insights. A second opinion isn’t about doubting your doctor—it’s about ensuring you have all the information needed to make the best decision for your health.
Tune in to learn why a second opinion could open new doors in your lung cancer treatment plan.
The First 7 Steps downloadable
Transcript | Show Notes
--------
15:18
The First 7 Days: Initial Steps After a Lung Cancer Diagnosis
Just diagnosed with lung cancer? In this essential episode, thoracic oncologist Dr. David Carbone and lung cancer survivors share why you have time to breathe, gather information, and make informed decisions about your treatment journey.
Transcript | Show Notes
Originally released in May 2020 as part of The First 7 Days series, this timeless episode of the Hope with Answers Living with Lung Cancer Podcast remains an essential resource for anyone facing a lung cancer diagnosis. While treatment options continue to advance rapidly, the fundamental guidance shared in "The First 7 Days" about taking time to gather information, seeking appropriate testing, and finding the right medical team is as crucial today as it was when first aired.
--------
17:46
The Power of Palliative Care: 2024's Must-Listen Episode
As we wrap up 2024, LCFA's Hope With Answers host Mitch Jelniker presents our most downloaded episode of the year, featuring a transformative conversation about palliative care in the lung cancer journey.
Dr. Sherri Cervantez, Director of Palliative Oncology at UT Health San Antonio MD Anderson Cancer Center, joins lung cancer survivor Sally Cain for an enlightening discussion that changed how thousands view palliative care. Sally shares her unique perspective as both a Stage 4 lung cancer patient benefiting from palliative care and as someone who witnessed her late husband's journey without these vital services.
Key Highlights from Our Most Popular 2024 Episode
Debunking common myths about palliative care vs. hospice care
How early palliative care can transform your lung cancer journey
Real-world success stories of improved quality of life
Expert insights on building your optimal care team
Practical guidance on accessing and maximizing palliative care services
Insurance coverage and advocacy tips
This standout episode resonated deeply with our audience by addressing a critical yet often overlooked component of comprehensive lung cancer care. Whether you're a patient, caregiver, or healthcare provider, this discussion offers valuable insights into maximizing quality of life during treatment.
As LCFA prepares for an exciting 2025, we invite you to revisit this impactful conversation that continues to help patients and families better understand how palliative care can be a powerful ally in their lung cancer journey.
Show Notes | Transcript | Watch Video
Originally Published on: 2024-05-23
Resources:
Understanding Palliative Care
What is Palliative Care?
Palliative Care & Lung Cancer
Find out what you need to know for your personal lung cancer journey through stories and interviews with patients, lung cancer specialists, and key participants in the quest for a cure.
USA