Advertise on podcast: The Cancer Sucks Podcast

A breast cancer diagnosis can hide in plain sight, especially when a mammogram says "fine" but dense breast tissue tells a different story. Today we welcome Casey Oliver, who shares with us the year that changed everything. From a routine referral and an ultrasound that uncovered two suspicious masses to a stage 1 diagnosis, surgery, radiation, hormone therapy, and the hard reality of becoming your own advocate. Casey opens up about how the diagnosis intersected with freelance entertainment work, gaps in insurance, and the chaos of trying to navigate Medi-Cal, referrals, and a medical system that is not built for people who move from contract to contract. What finally got her answers, and what helped her move forward, is a combination of persistence, research, and refusing to ignore what her body was telling her.You'll discover: Why dense breast tissue can make mammograms miss what an ultrasound or MRI may catch How Casey used Every Woman Counts and Planned Parenthood to keep her screening moving What it is like to face a lumpectomy, lymph node removal, radiation, Zoladex, and anastrozole without chemo Why she fought for treatment choices before surgery instead of waiting until after The unexpected side effects, including hot flashes, night sweats, lymphedema, and frozen shoulder concerns Jay and Adrienne bring their own perspective on the emotional and practical burden of treatment, the importance of support systems, and why early detection matters even more when you feel "too busy" to get checked. Casey also talks about the online communities, niche survivor groups, and real-world advice that can make the difference between feeling isolated and feeling equipped. This conversation is a reminder that cancer does not care how busy you are, how young you feel, or how "normal" your first test looks. If you've ever been told you have dense breasts, put off a screening, or wondered whether you should ask for more than a mammogram, this episode gives you a clear reason to act.  For more CANCER SUCKS PODCAST ⬇ Follow us on INSTAGRAM for daily updates, laughs, and raw behind-the-scenes moments! Donate to Help Jay Fight Pancreatic Cancer Watch the show on YOUTUBE Follow the CANCER SUCKS Playlist! Find ALL our links in one place, here! Follow Adrienne Follow Parker For booking, to be a guest on the show, and other business inquiries: [email protected] 00:27 Introduction and episode overview 02:19 Jay Williams shares his latest cancer treatment update 04:58 Understanding tumor markers and their significance 06:59 The implications of rising CA199 levels 08:51 Exploring treatment options and clinical trials 09:54 Introduction and guest background 11:34 Casey's career and personal background 14:06 Breast cancer diagnosis and initial steps 16:57 Importance of ultrasound and dense breast tissue 19:50 Staging, treatment options, and clinical trials 22:47 Medication, side effects, and managing menopause 25:31 Radiation treatment and recovery 26:35 Lymph node involvement and physical effects 28:52 Support systems and emotional resilience 30:47 Healthcare system navigation and advice 34:04 Advocacy, research, and early detection 40:44 Community, shared experiences, and support groups 42:24 Collecting coffee mugs and personal interests 54:22 Closing remarks and gratitude 55:44 Introduction to Cancer Advocacy 58:25 Engaging with the Audience

Cancer changes everything, but it can also reveal the kind of strength you did not know you had. Sheila Butler shares the brutally honest story behind surviving breast cancer in her 30s, navigating 18 surgeries, chemo, radiation, and the mental toll that kept hitting long after the physical treatment ended. This conversation goes beyond survival and into the real work of living after diagnosis. Jay opens up about his own cancer journey, while Sheila talks candidly about what it means to keep going when cancer becomes part of your life story, not just a chapter in it.  This episode is a reminder that a diagnosis does not get the final word. If you need perspective, hope, or an honest look at how people actually get through impossible seasons, this one is essential listening. Be sure to check out Shelia’s socials and podcast! ⬇ https://open.spotify.com/show/1JfBEhCu3L6AVwS8puO1qg https://www.instagram.com/marketingoverbourbon/ https://www.butlermg.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheilabutler/ For more CANCER SUCKS PODCAST ⬇ Follow us on INSTAGRAM for daily updates, laughs, and raw behind-the-scenes moments! Donate to Help Jay Fight Pancreatic Cancer Watch the show on YOUTUBE Follow the CANCER SUCKS Playlist! Find ALL our links in one place, here! Follow Adrienne Follow Parker For booking, to be a guest on the show, and other business inquiries: [email protected] 00:30 — Welcome to Cancer Sucks 01:32 — Jay’s latest health update 04:47 — New breakthroughs bringing hope to cancer care 11:50 — Meet Sheila Butler 13:03 — Disney days and the unforgettable cruise-ship wedding 17:16 — From corporate marketing to entrepreneurship 19:23 — Creating Marketing Over Bourbon 24:32 — Sheila’s breast cancer diagnosis in her 30s 26:16 — Living with cancer after treatment ends 34:00 — Working, studying, and moving forward through chemo 36:50 — The resilience cancer can reveal 41:00 — Sheila’s advice for anyone newly diagnosed 43:22 — Cancer, identity, work, and choosing what to share 47:41 — Community, connection, and giving back 48:52 — Closing reflections with Jay and Adrienne 50:18 — Stay connected with the Cancer Sucks community

A LOT has happened these last 2 weeks! In today’s weekly update, Jay fills us in on his CT scan results and whether the Daraxonrasib is working. He has an unfortunate trip to the hospital, gets shingles, starts a press tour, and makes it out just in time to officiate his son Parker’s wedding. Jay and Adrienne discuss the financial reality of FDA approved medication, and how important it is to remain hopeful so that you can be present for important life moments.  (this update was recorded on 9/19/26) For more CANCER SUCKS PODCAST ⬇ Follow us on INSTAGRAM for daily updates, laughs, and raw behind-the-scenes moments! Donate to Help Jay Fight Pancreatic Cancer Watch the show on YOUTUBE Follow the CANCER SUCKS Playlist! Find ALL our links in one place, here! Follow Adrienne Follow Parker For booking, to be a guest on the show, and other business inquiries: [email protected] 00:28 Introduction and overview of Jay's recent health updates 02:52 CT Scan Results - Is Daraxonrasib Working? 06:53 Something Isn't Right 10:13 A Trip To The Hospital 15:38 Getting Out Of The Hospital 17:02 Time To Officiate My Son's Wedding! 22:37 I Got Shingles 23:26 Daraxonrasib Approved By The FDA! 24:44 Daraxonrasib Is $40,000 Per Month?! 28:01 Jay's Media Tour As Patient #1 31:28 It's Important To Fight

Cancer can change everything in a moment, but it does not get the final say. Susan Lambert Hatem joins the Cancer Sucks Podcast for a candid conversation about catching breast cancer early, advocating for yourself, and refusing to put life on hold while you get treated. Susan shares how a small, persistent lump led to a biopsy, diagnosis, lumpectomy, and radiation without chemotherapy, while also navigating the chaos of the LA fires, doctor delays, and a packed creative life. Along the way, she reflects on the power of trusting your instincts, building a strong support system, and staying proactive when something feels off. It’s a hopeful, honest reminder that cancer may be part of the story, but it doesn’t get to define the whole ​​life. Be sure to check out her award winning podcast! https://www.80stvladies.com/ https://www.instagram.com/80stvladies?igsi=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ== For more CANCER SUCKS PODCAST ⬇ Follow us on INSTAGRAM for daily updates, laughs, and raw behind-the-scenes moments! Donate to Help Jay Fight Pancreatic Cancer Watch the show on YOUTUBE Follow the CANCER SUCKS Playlist! Find ALL our links in one place, here! Follow Adrienne Follow Parker For booking, to be a guest on the show, and other business inquiries: [email protected] 1:59 — Welcome and shared Disney history 5:10 — Susan’s journey into podcasting and 80s TV Ladies 7:10 — Noticing symptoms and advocating for early testing 12:18 — Diagnosis, treatment choices, and recovery 17:07 — Support from friends and the importance of speaking openly 25:30 — Empathy, stigma, and living with cancer 29:03 — Jay’s treatment update and new hope in cancer care 31:04 — Finding joy, purpose, and community through a difficult year 33:53 — Susan’s podcast and closing remarks

Prostate cancer can be terrifying, but catching it early changes everything. In this episode, Jay and Adrienne interview Tony Cortese, who shares how proactive PSA testing, a trusted doctor, and targeted radiation helped him avoid surgery and keep his quality of life intact - and why he believes the right mindset may matter as much as the treatment plan. Jay also brings a deeply personal perspective, comparing Tony’s journey to his own family’s prostate cancer history and breaking down what PSA numbers, Gleason scores, active surveillance, and modern treatment options actually mean in real life. Adrienne adds thoughtful questions that pull out the details families need to hear, especially around early detection, bloodwork trends, and when to push for more answers. For more CANCER SUCKS PODCAST ⬇ ⁠Follow us on INSTAGRAM⁠ for daily updates, laughs, and raw behind-the-scenes moments! ⁠Donate to Help Jay Fight Pancreatic Cancer⁠ ⁠Watch the show on YOUTUBE⁠ ⁠Follow the CANCER SUCKS Playlist!⁠ ⁠Find ALL our links in one place, here!⁠ ⁠Follow Adrienne⁠ ⁠Follow Parker⁠ For booking, to be a guest on our show, and other business inquiries: [email protected] CHAPTERS:00:00 Welcome to the Cancer Sucks Podcast01:01 Jay’s health update and upcoming scan 04:49 Introducing Tony and his prostate cancer journey07:00 Tony’s diagnosis, PSA monitoring, and early detection10:46 Choosing radiation treatment over surgery14:17 Jay’s experience with prostate cancer and family history17:20 Why proactive screening and regular blood work matter24:07 Finding peace through meditation, faith, and treatment28:40 Radiation side effects, treatment realities, and quality of life30:52 Staying hopeful and choosing to keep living35:09 Faith, gratitude, and final encouragement35:39 Closing the conversation

In today's weekly update, Jay talks about how it feels to have completed 1 MONTH of taking the new, groundbreaking, stage 4 pancreatic cancer medication, DARAXONRASIB! Jay and Adrienne also discuss: - Patrick Long (from The Decon Project) is officially CANCER FREE! - How Jay has been feeling on the drug - Side effects (or for him, lack there of) - Exciting media opportunities Jay has gotten - FDA approval status - Next steps regarding scans and tumor shrinkage For more CANCER SUCKS PODCAST ⬇ Follow us on INSTAGRAM for daily updates, laughs, and raw behind-the-scenes moments! Donate to Help Jay Fight Pancreatic Cancer Watch the show on YOUTUBE Follow the CANCER SUCKS Playlist! Find ALL our links in one place, here! Follow Adrienne Follow Parker For booking, to be a guest on our show, and other business inquiries: [email protected] Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and episode overview 02:02 Celebrating Patrick Long's cancer remission 03:51 Jay's journey with stage four pancreatic cancer 07:00 Introduction to Daraxonrasib and clinical trial process 10:00 Expanded access and Jay’s treatment experience 12:02 Upcoming scans and hopes for tumor shrinkage 15:01 The importance of FDA approval for wider access 18:12 Jay’s lifestyle changes and maintaining energy 20:59 The mental and emotional aspects of fighting cancer 24:03 The positive outlook and helping others 26:00 Future updates and the impact of new treatments

Join us as Patrick Long shares his powerful story of battling lymphoma while also leading a nonprofit dedicated to protecting firefighters from cancer. This episode highlights the importance of preventative health for firefighters and first responders, the role of community, and innovative solutions like sauna use to reduce long-term risks in high-exposure professions. In this episode: Patrick's personal cancer diagnosis and treatment journey The mission and activities of the Decon Project The connection between firefighting chemical exposure and cancer risk The role of sauna therapy in detoxification and prevention Practical steps for firefighters and first responders to reduce long-term health risks How community support and advocacy can make a difference The importance of taking ownership of health and seeking second opinions Resources for implementing safety practices and wellness initiatives in fire stations For more CANCER SUCKS PODCAST ⬇ Follow us on INSTAGRAM for daily updates, laughs, and raw behind-the-scenes moments! Donate to Help Jay Fight Pancreatic Cancer Watch the show on YOUTUBE Follow the CANCER SUCKS Playlist! Find ALL our links in one place, here! Follow Adrienne Follow Parker For more about DECON PROJECT🚒⬇ The Decon Project Website The Decon Project Instagram Salus Saunas (firefighter wellness saunas) FLAME Decon Soap For booking and other business inquiries: [email protected] 00:00 - Welcome and introduction to Patrick Long and his story 02:20 - The mission behind the Decon Project and Patrick’s motivation 09:00 - Patrick’s cancer diagnosis: follicular and diffuse large B cell lymphoma 14:00 - The significance of chemical exposure in firefighting and long-term health risks 23:00 - Emerging treatments like CAR T cell therapy 30:00 - The impact of shift work, sleep deprivation, and toxins on firefighter health 40:00 - Saunas as a tool for detoxification and reducing cancer risk 45:00 - Practical tips for firefighters to improve health and safety practices 50:00 - How community, faith, and personal advocacy shape Patrick’s outlook 52:00 - How to get involved with the Decon Project and spreading health awareness

This week, Jay received HUGE news… he is officially cleared to start taking Daraxonrasib, the new breakthrough pancreatic cancer medication that has, up until now, had a lot of red tape and been hard to get cleared for. So hit pause on the sad playlist, because this episode is about real hope, breakthrough drugs, and the kind of medical miracles that make you want to do a happy dance — even if you’re sweating through California summer. Today, Jay Williams shares his rollercoaster journey with a game-changing pancreatic cancer drug and how it’s giving him a new lease on life.In this episode: Jay dives into the journey of finally getting the groundbreaking drug Daraxonrasib after months of red tape and waiting games How a nerve block turned his terrible back pain into sweet dreams—literally The science behind KRAS, the “stuck accelerator” of cancer, and how this new drug targets it The comparison between chemo’s indiscriminate attack and targeted therapies like Daraxonrasib The importance of self-advocacy and finding doctors who listen (because not all heroes wear scrubs) Why pancreatic cancer diagnosis is often late, and how early detection could change the game The hope for combination therapies—immunotherapy plus targeted drugs—and the future of cancer care Interested in being a guest? Drop us a line at [email protected]. We love sharing your journey!Remember: Cancer might suck, but your life doesn’t have to. Keep fighting, keep laughing, and keep advocating! (this update was recorded on 7/10/26) For more CANCER SUCKS PODCAST ⬇ Follow us on INSTAGRAM for daily updates, laughs, and raw behind-the-scenes moments! Donate to Help Jay Fight Pancreatic Cancer Watch the show on YOUTUBE Follow the CANCER SUCKS Playlist! Find ALL our links in one place, here! Follow Adrienne Follow Parker For booking and other business inquiries: [email protected] 00:29 I'm Starting Daraxonrasib! 05:05 Let's talk about Daraxonrasib! Red Tape 06:50 History of Daraxonrasib 09:54 Funny Story About Getting The Drug 17:16 Daraxonrasib First Impressions 17:42 Daraxonrasib vs Chemotherapy - What's The Difference? 21:37 Can Daraxonrasib Cure Pancreatic Cancer? 21:42 Treatment Outlook and Next Steps 23:22 Early Detection and Insurance Barriers 23:46 The Choice Between Quality of Life or Continuing Treatment 24:39 Daraxonrasib's Bright Future 30:08 Living With Cancer and Self-Advocacy 32:33 Hope, Research, and New Treatments 34:59 Finding the Right Doctor 37:55 Knowledge Is Power 39:22 Community, Gratitude, and Staying Positive 43:01 Where to Find Us

BE A GUEST ON OUR SHOW! 🎙️ Email [email protected] to let us know you want to be a guest. Welcome to this week’s update! Today, Jay talks about hitting 3 years since his original pancreatic cancer diagnosis, how he emotionally copes with bad news, his latest scan results that weren’t great, going on a new chemo, and the government red tape around the new life-saving pancreatic cancer drug Daraxonrasib.  Jay and Adrienne also discuss: - Latest treatments and clinical trials for pancreatic cancer - The importance of advocacy and self-education in healthcare - The role of positivity and mental resilience in battling cancer - Community support and fundraising efforts for cancer research (this update was recorded on 6/28/26) For more CANCER SUCKS PODCAST ⬇ Follow us on INSTAGRAM for daily updates, laughs, and raw behind-the-scenes moments! Donate to Help Jay Fight Pancreatic Cancer Watch the show on YOUTUBE Follow the CANCER SUCKS Playlist! Find ALL our links in one place, here! Follow Adrienne Follow Parker For booking and other business inquiries: [email protected]

Welcome to another WEEKLY UPDATE! Today we’re traveling back in time to October 2025, where Jay explains a recent medical scare he had, describes in detail what getting chemo ACTUALLY feels like, gives us his best tips for pre-chemo anxiety, and takes us back to where he was a year ago today. Jay and Adrienne discuss the joys of teaching, and how grateful we are that Jay is still here fighting the good fight. Thanks everyone, for tuning in! (this update was recorded on 10/19/25) For more CANCER SUCKS PODCAST ⬇ Follow us on INSTAGRAM for daily updates, laughs, and raw behind-the-scenes moments! Donate to Help Jay Fight Pancreatic Cancer Watch the show on YOUTUBE Follow the CANCER SUCKS Playlist! Find ALL our links in one place, here! Follow Adrienne Follow Parker For booking and other business inquiries: [email protected] 00:00 - welcome back to Cancer Sucks! 03:24 - let’s roll the episode! 05:42 - this time last year 14:59 - biggest tip for anxiety 15:46 - no chemo this week 18:27 - mentally preparing for chemo 22:08 - introducing a 3rd drug 26:28 - world series baseball 28:57 - how is sleeping? 31:46 - what does getting chemo feel like? 38:26 - staying busy is good 47:05 - subscribe to the podcast!

Welcome to another WEEKLY UPDATE! Today we’re traveling back in time to October 2025, where we continue to explore Jay's journey of battling cancer, the importance of positivity, and how to find joy in everyday moments. We touch on: Zofran & CBD gummies Healthcare in the 90's vs now Going to Disneyland to get his steps in!!! Forgetting you have cancer And more genius nuggets on how to stay positive during your battle with cancer Join us for an honest and inspiring conversation about resilience, mental health, and living life to the fullest. (this update was recorded on 10/11/2025) For more CANCER SUCKS PODCAST ⬇ Follow us on INSTAGRAM for daily updates, laughs, and raw behind-the-scenes moments! Donate to Help Jay Fight Pancreatic Cancer Watch the show on YOUTUBE Follow the CANCER SUCKS Playlist! Find ALL our links in one place, here! Follow Adrienne Follow Parker For booking and other business inquiries: [email protected] 00:00 - Introduction and Context of the Podcast 02:29 - Reflections on Cancer Treatment and Quality of Life 12:50 - Mental Health and Positivity in Cancer Journey 16:39 - Jay's Weekly Update and Work Life 24:47 - Physical Activity Challenges and Adaptations 27:59 - The Power of Positive Environments 30:28 - Balancing Work and Health 33:23 - Collecting Memories: A Visual Journey 36:45 - Gratitude and Perspective on Life 39:49 - Legacy and Family Values 42:44 - The Importance of Perspective in Life

Welcome to another WEEKLY UPDATE! Today we’re traveling back in time to October 2025, where Jay was navigating chemo delays, bad blood cell counts, and discussing the possibility of taking a new pancreatic cancer drug. Jay tells Adrienne the toll that schedule changes have on his mental health, how work is going, and the curiosity of trying to gain weight when he’s only ever tried to lose it. This update may be months old, but every bit of it is still relevant to his current cancer journey, and we’re sure the journey of those around us. Thanks so much for listening! (this update was recorded on 10/2/25) For more CANCER SUCKS PODCAST ⬇ Follow us on INSTAGRAM for daily updates, laughs, and raw behind-the-scenes moments! Donate to Help Jay Fight Pancreatic Cancer Watch the show on YOUTUBE Follow the CANCER SUCKS Playlist! Find ALL our links in one place, here! Follow Adrienne Follow Parker For booking and other business inquiries: [email protected]

In this heartfelt episode, Jay Williams and Noam Dromi explore the profound themes of life, death, and the power of storytelling in navigating cancer journeys. They share personal stories, insights on legacy, and practical advice on confronting mortality with grace and honesty. For more CANCER SUCKS PODCAST ⬇ Follow us on INSTAGRAM for daily updates, laughs, and raw behind-the-scenes moments! Donate to Help Jay Fight Pancreatic Cancer Watch the show on YOUTUBE Follow the CANCER SUCKS Playlist! Find ALL our links in one place, here! Follow Adrienne Follow Parker For booking and other business inquiries: [email protected] CHAPTERS 00:00 The Power of Community in Cancer Journeys 05:08 Storytelling as a Tool for Change 07:46 Navigating Personal Loss and Caregiving 10:42 The Importance of Legacy and Communication 13:31 Facing Mortality with Grace 15:55 Creating Meaningful Connections Through Storytelling 24:20 The Power of Last Words 26:37 Embracing Mortality and Purposeful Living 27:48 Innovations in Cancer Treatment 28:46 Navigating Terminal Illness 30:20 The Challenge of Asking for Help 31:37 The Reality of Healthcare Funding 33:41 The Importance of Community Support 35:31 The Gift of Connection and Vulnerability 37:51 Understanding Individual Needs in Illness 41:53 The Importance of Expressing Gratitude 44:38 Letting Go of Past Grievances 49:05 Creating a Legacy Through Storytelling

Welcome to today’s WEEKLY UPDATE! In this episode, Jay Williams shares a candid update on his ongoing battle with stage four pancreatic cancer, discussing recent medical appointments, new treatments, and the importance of a holistic approach to health and wellness during cancer treatment. We’ll discuss: The new pancreatic cancer drug, Daraxonrasib Jay’s upcoming appointment with an Herbologist to discuss diet, supplements, and other wholistic treatments Jay’s upcoming appointment with his Pain Management doctor  Blood level management and side effects The importance of patient advocacy and collaboration (this update was recorded on 5/17/26) For more CANCER SUCKS PODCAST ⬇ Follow us on INSTAGRAM for daily updates, laughs, and raw behind-the-scenes moments! Donate to Help Jay Fight Pancreatic Cancer Watch the show on YOUTUBE Follow the CANCER SUCKS Playlist! Find ALL our links in one place, here! Follow Adrienne Follow Parker For booking and other business inquiries: [email protected] 00:00 Introduction to the Journey 01:29 Medical Updates -  Daraxonrasib  06:25 Exploring New Treatment Options - Herbalogist 10:44 Pain Management Doctor Appointment 13:25 Meeting with Whipple Surgeon 15:51 What Options Are Left? 19:58 How Jay's Feeling Right Now 25:09 Closing Thoughts and Future Outlook

Join us as we explore the inspiring stories from the Pan Can Walk and Relay for Life events, featuring personal journeys, innovative cancer research, and community support efforts. Learn how technology, advocacy, and community engagement are making a difference in the fight against cancer. For more CANCER SUCKS PODCAST ⬇ Follow us on INSTAGRAM for daily updates, laughs, and raw behind-the-scenes moments! Donate to Help Jay Fight Pancreatic Cancer Watch the show on YOUTUBE Follow the CANCER SUCKS Playlist! Find ALL our links in one place, here! Follow Adrienne Follow Parker For booking and other business inquiries: [email protected] 00:00 - Introduction and Overview of the Episode 01:24 - Jay’s Medical Update  05:21 - Exploring New Treatment Options and AI in Cancer Care 10:53 - Advocacy and Patient Empowerment in Cancer Treatment 14:48 - Inspiration from Cancer Events: PanCAN and Relay for Life 18:11 - The importance of Slowing Down Cancer Progression 19:11 - PanCAN: Support and Fundraising for Pancreatic Cancer 20:16 - Relay for Life: Community and Personal Stories 24:15 - Parker’s Experience: Documenting the Events 28:15 - At the PanCAN walk and Interviews with Other Survivors 35:17 - Parker’s Experience with Relay for Life 38:57 - At Relay for Life 42:11 - Overall Experience at Events