Living with Cancer
By Belinda Wagner
Living with Cancer May 18, 2021
Episode 25 Shaun Waison - Life Health SA
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/
Episode - 23 - Nancy White-Cross Overian and Cervical Cancer
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.
Episode 22 - Colin Hall - Lymphoma
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/
Episode 16 - Lisha Nunan - Papillary carcinoma cancer warrior
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.
Episode 20 - Professor Monica Singer - Breast Cancer
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.
Episode 19 - Jean Pienaar - National Operations Manager, Zebra Medical
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/
Episode 15 - Gill Kretzschmar - Melanoma Testimony
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
Episode 17 - Andrew Oberholzer - Managing Director: The Health Society of South Africa Head of The Men’s Health Association CEO: The Prostate Cancer Foundation
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/
Episode 18 - Louise Turner - Breast Survivor CEO of the Breast Health Foundation
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
Episode 14 - Dr Bose Datar Cancer Genetics Limited
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/
Episode 13 - Sandy Gordon - Cancer of the Pancreas Testimony
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.
Episode 12 - Oscar Chalupsky - Olympian and former World Surfski Champion - Multiple Myeloma
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"
Episode 11 - Arthur Rosen - Reflexologist and Craniosacral Therapist - Testimony and Therapist
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.
Episode 10 - Rajes Govender - B-Cell Non Hodgkin's Lymphoma Testimony
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.
Chai FM Interview - First Patient Led Cancer Registry
Nikki Seberini interviews Belinda Wagner on Chai FM
Episode 9 - Caren Martinis - Breast Cancer Warrior Testimony
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.
Episode 8 - Dr Elvira Singh: Head: National Cancer Registry and the partnership with LWC
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
Episode 7 - Charne Roux - Nutritionist - Liver Detox how it supports cancer patients
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
Episode 6 - Charne Roux - Nutritionist - Basics of diet support during your cancer journey (pre and post treatment)
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
Radio Interview - The View Point SAfm
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 - Dr Gavin Durra - Radiologist with a focus on cancer diagnosis and monitoring
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.
Episode 4 - Salomé Meyer & Linda Greeff - Cancer Alliance
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/
Episode 3 - Candice Kushka - Physiotherapist working with cancer patients
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
Episode 2 - Christie Fraser - Look Good Feel Better
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:
Episode 1 - Introducing our Podcast Series and Belinda Wagner's Cancer Testimony
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.