The Cancer Project

Giulia Rozzi has built a career around saying the uncomfortable things out loud, and she brings that same honesty to her experience with breast cancer. After a bilateral mastectomy, radiation, hormone therapy, and multiple reconstruction surgeries, Giulia found herself navigating not only cancer treatment, but also the emotional impact of losing a part of her identity and trying to recognize herself again.Giulia speaks candidly about the overwhelming process of making life changing medical decisions while feeling like she did not have all the information she needed. Her experience taught her the importance of self advocacy, asking questions, seeking second opinions, and understanding that there is no single right way to move forward.She also opens up about body image, mental health, and the complicated emotions that can come with surviving cancer. After initially choosing to remain flat, Giulia eventually realized that reconstruction was important to her and underwent a less common flap procedure. Through it all, she learned that wanting to feel comfortable in your body does not make you vain or ungrateful.For Giulia, humor became a way back to herself. Her Substack, Seven Bodies, explores the many versions of her body and identity throughout her cancer journey, giving her a space to talk about the realities of cancer that are often left unsaid.Today, Giulia uses her voice to remind others that surviving cancer is not the end of the story. Her message is simple: ask everything, ask for help, ask for more time, and most importantly, ask for what you need.Episode Resources:Seven Bodies Substack:https://giuliarozzi.substack.com/We Got This:https://wegotthis.org/https://www.instagram.com/wegotthisorg/https://www.facebook.com/wegotthis.orgWe Got This “Cancer Is A Joke” Stand Up Comedy Fundraiser:https://wegotthis.org/pages/cancer-is-a-jokeOklahoma Proton Centerhttps://www.okcproton.com/https://www.instagram.com/okprotoncenter/https://www.facebook.com/OKProtonCenterThe Cancer Project Podcasthttps://www.instagram.com/the_cancerprojecthttps://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61581844363126https://www.tiktok.com/@protonguy

Anne Hamilton was diagnosed with stage 3C breast cancer at thirty-five years old. Her treatment included chemotherapy, a bilateral mastectomy, radiation, and multiple surgeries. But for Anne, finishing treatment did not mean the cancer journey was over. She found herself facing fear of recurrence, survivor’s guilt, a changing relationship with her body, and the difficult question of how to truly live again after cancer. That experience ultimately led Anne to create the Survivorship Collective, a community focused on the emotional, spiritual, and existential challenges of life after cancer. Through community, therapy, somatic healing, spiritual practices, and research based approaches, the Collective creates space for survivors to feel seen and understood. Anne believes healing is not necessarily the same as being cured. For her, healing is about belonging and finding connection with others who have walked a similar path. Anne also shares her personal experience with psilocybin and the research surrounding its potential role in helping people process some of the emotional challenges that can come with cancer. She emphasizes education, research, safety, and community as important parts of these conversations. This conversation is ultimately about what happens after treatment ends and the work of learning to live again begins. Anne offers a powerful reminder that no one should have to navigate survivorship alone, and that healing can come through community, connection, purpose, and the people who help us find our way forward. Episode Resources: The Survivorship Collective: https://survivorshipcollective.com/ https://www.instagram.com/survivorshipcollective/ Oklahoma Proton Center https://www.okcproton.com/ https://www.instagram.com/okprotoncenter/ https://www.facebook.com/OKProtonCenter The Cancer Project Podcast https://www.instagram.com/the_cancerproject https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61581844363126 https://www.tiktok.com/@protonguy

At 30 years old, Megan O’Neil knew something wasn’t quite right when she began experiencing pain in her chest. Due to her young age and overall health as an athlete, her concerns were initially dismissed by doctors. Megan persisted and eventually found a lump, leading to a conversation with her doctor about the increasing number of younger patients being diagnosed with cancer. She requested an ultrasound, which was followed by a mammogram, biopsy, and ultimately a breast cancer diagnosis. Megan underwent chemotherapy and surgery and was declared cancer free. But with each passing year, follow up appointments brought a familiar anxiety as the possibility of recurrence lingered in the back of her mind. As Megan approached the five year mark, she experienced a sensation that was entirely new to her, yet she immediately knew something was wrong. Her cancer had returned. On this episode of The Cancer Project Podcast, Megan opens up about her experiences with cancer, the health complications that have accompanied living with metastatic cancer, and the ways cancer has changed her as a person. She also emphasizes the importance of cancer research and the need to continue advancing our understanding and treatment of the disease. Join us as Megan shares her honest and deeply personal story as the first episode of our special October series for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. We are incredibly grateful to Megan for sharing her story with such openness and courage, and for using her experience to advocate for others affected by cancer. Episode Resources: Support Metastatic Research: https://secure.qgiv.com/for/metresansupin/ Oklahoma Proton Center: https://www.okcproton.com/ https://www.instagram.com/okprotoncenter/ https://www.facebook.com/OKProtonCenter The Cancer Project Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/the_cancerproject https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61581844363126 https://www.tiktok.com/@protonguy

n this episode of The Cancer Project, we sit down with ovarian cancer survivor and author Anna Focht. In 2015, what began as a routine annual appointment quickly changed Anna’s life when her doctor discovered a lump during a pelvic exam. Diagnosed with stage three B ovarian cancer, Anna underwent surgery followed by 18 weeks of chemotherapy while navigating treatment and trying to remain present for her family. Anna opens up about the physical and emotional realities of her cancer journey, from the toll of treatment and the challenges of recovery to the importance of family, friends, and community. She reflects on the small victories that helped her move forward, including the moment she was finally able to ride her bike again, and the uncertainty that can remain even after treatment ends. As Anna searched for ways to cope with her diagnosis, she found herself turning more deeply toward her faith. Through prayer, Bible reading, journaling, yoga, meditation, and time in nature, she began processing the emotions that came with cancer and discovering a greater sense of peace and purpose. That journey eventually inspired Psalm Trees , a collection of reflections and prayers shaped by her experiences with cancer, faith, sorrow, gratitude, and hope. Now 11 years beyond her diagnosis, Anna continues to support other cancer patients and advocate for greater awareness and research for ovarian cancer. She speaks honestly about the loneliness of cancer, the importance of hope, and the reminder that every patient is more than a diagnosis or a statistic. Her story is ultimately one of finding faith and purpose in the midst of uncertainty and using what she has experienced to help others keep moving forward. Episode Resources: Psalm Trees by Anna Focht: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FHJG3HBR?lv=shuf&channelId=500&plpRedirect=mhFallback Oklahoma Proton Center https://www.okcproton.com/ https://www.instagram.com/okprotoncenter/ https://www.facebook.com/OKProtonCenter The Cancer Project Podcast https://www.instagram.com/the_cancerproject https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61581844363126 https://www.tiktok.com/@protonguy

In this episode of The Cancer Project we are joined by Tenaciously Teal Board Chair and attorney Brooke Unruh. Brooke shares how her experiences with her close friend and law partner Anna, her mother’s cancer diagnosis, and her work with Tenaciously Teal have shaped the way she understands cancer, caregiving, family, and the importance of being there for others. Brooke reflects on walking alongside Anna through her breast cancer journey while balancing their friendship, partnership, and the responsibilities of keeping their business running. After Anna passed away in 2016, Brooke continued her involvement with Tenaciously Teal, an organization that supports cancer patients with some of the everyday expenses and challenges that can become overwhelming during treatment. Brooke also shares her family’s experience when her mother was diagnosed with lung cancer. She talks about the uncertainty that comes with waiting for answers, the overwhelming amount of information patients and families receive, and the importance of having someone alongside you during appointments to take notes, ask questions, and help process what the doctor is saying. As an attorney who focuses on estate planning, Brooke explains why planning ahead can be especially important for cancer patients and their families. She discusses healthcare directives, powers of attorney, wills, and other steps that can help families navigate difficult situations while also encouraging people to have the conversations they may be tempted to put off. Through her personal experiences, Brooke offers a thoughtful perspective on how cancer can change the way we see life and what matters most. From supporting someone through treatment to preparing for the unexpected, she reminds us that sometimes the smallest acts of compassion, preparation, and support can help carry some of the burden that comes with cancer. Episode Resources: Oklahoma Proton Center https://www.okcproton.com/ https://www.instagram.com/okprotoncenter/ https://www.facebook.com/OKProtonCenter The Cancer Project Podcast https://www.instagram.com/the_cancerproject https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61581844363126 https://www.tiktok.com/@protonguy

The time after an engagement is typically filled with excitement, wedding planning, and dreaming about the future. But for Morgan Lunardi and her fiancé, AJ, that exciting chapter quickly took an unexpected turn when Morgan was diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma. Shortly after their engagement, Morgan began experiencing troubling symptoms, including intense headaches and facial swelling. Scans revealed a 13-centimeter mass in her chest. Because of the tumor’s location, doctors warned that a biopsy could require opening her chest to obtain a sample. As Morgan and AJ traveled to their wedding venue in Cabo to plan their special day, the possibility of such a serious procedure weighed heavily on them. Fortunately, doctors were able to complete the biopsy without opening Morgan’s chest. However, another complication meant she needed to begin chemotherapy a week earlier than planned. With their wedding less than a year away, Morgan decided to try cold capping during treatment in hopes of preserving her hair. The process uses extremely cold temperatures to restrict blood flow to the scalp and reduce hair loss during chemotherapy. Alongside chemotherapy, Morgan also underwent radiation while continuing to work full time and plan her wedding. She shares what it was like to navigate cancer treatment while preparing for one of the biggest days of her life, and how quickly she went from thinking about wedding details to becoming a cancer patient. Throughout her journey, Morgan leaned on other cancer survivors for advice, support, and answers to the questions that came with her diagnosis. Now, she is passionate about paying that support forward by helping others facing cancer, particularly when it comes to navigating treatment, fertility, and cold capping. Today, Morgan is cancer free and living the life she fought so hard to get back to. She and AJ are married and are now the parents of two beautiful daughters. Episode Resources: Oklahoma Proton Center https://www.okcproton.com/ https://www.instagram.com/okprotoncenter/ https://www.facebook.com/OKProtonCenter The Cancer Project Podcast https://www.instagram.com/the_cancerproject https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61581844363126 https://www.tiktok.com/@protonguy

Twenty-three year old Valentina Prince was preparing to start veterinarian school in the fall when she experienced a sudden itch in her breast. Valentina thought nothing of it until she felt a new lump in her breast. She quickly made an appointment to have it looked at and suddenly found herself receiving a mammogram and being told this mass looks very abnormal and you need to schedule a biopsy as soon as possible. After difficulty finding a facility that could see her soon, her dad’s new job in Houston connected her to an oncologist that diagnosed her with stage three breast cancer. Valentina quickly began treatment at MD Anderson as the cancer had already spread to her lymph nodes. She received sixteen rounds of intensive chemotherapy, and jokingly referred to it as her “strawberry margarita” while trying to take a positive approach to treatment, determined to one day achieve her dream of becoming a veterinarian. In addition to chemotherapy, Valentina received immunotherapy, radiation, and had surgery as a part of her treatment plan. She shares honest details about the many complications she had throughout treatment including allergic reactions, burns from radiation, and lymphedema. After completing her intensive and exhausting treatment, Valentina rang the bell and spoke about the tidal wave of emotions she felt. She provides insight into what she wished she knew before undergoing treatment and her advice and mindset to those who are just beginning their cancer battle. Today, Valentina is cancer free and in her second year of veterinarian school at Michigan State University, continuing her dream of becoming what she affectionately refers to as a ‘dogtor’. Episode Resources: Valentina’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dogtorprince/ Oklahoma Proton Center https://www.okcproton.com/ https://www.instagram.com/okprotoncenter/ https://www.facebook.com/OKProtonCenter The Cancer Project Podcast https://www.instagram.com/the_cancerproject https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61581844363126 https://www.tiktok.com/@protonguy

What exactly does a medical physicist do, and how does their work impact a cancer patient's treatment? On this episode of The Cancer Project Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Ali Fatemi, a board-certified medical physicist specializing in radiation therapy and MRI physics, to explore the technology and people working behind the scenes of modern cancer care. Dr. Fatemi breaks down how medical physicists help ensure radiation treatments are delivered safely and accurately, and explains why MRI could play an increasingly important role in radiation therapy, particularly proton therapy. We also discuss the potential of combining MRI and proton therapy to better identify tumors and deliver highly precise treatment. The conversation also looks toward the future of cancer care and artificial intelligence. Dr. Fatemi shares why he believes AI won't simply replace doctors and medical physicists, but instead could change how they work, accelerate research, and give medical professionals more time to focus on solving complex problems. He also discusses the importance of validating and carefully testing new technology before it reaches patients. Finally, Dr. Fatemi shares his journey from Iran to Canada and the United States, his transition from researcher to clinical medical physicist and entrepreneur, and his passion for taking innovative ideas out of the laboratory and bringing them into the clinic where they can ultimately make a difference for patients. Episode Resources: Smart Medicine Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@SmartMedicinePodcast Oklahoma Proton Center https://www.okcproton.com/ https://www.instagram.com/okprotoncenter/ https://www.facebook.com/OKProtonCenter The Cancer Project Podcast https://www.instagram.com/the_cancerproject https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61581844363126 https://www.tiktok.com/@protonguy

On this inspiring episode of perseverance and strength, we are joined by metastatic breast cancer thriver Elissa Kalver. Despite no family history of breast cancer, a sudden lump in her breast prompted Elissa to go to the doctor. Elissa shares with The Cancer Project how quickly she had to move from step to step of mammogram, ultrasound, and biopsy. She provides an honest and sincere glimpse into the day she received her metastatic prognosis and the treatment plan that would follow. During her diagnosis, she was shocked to see more spots in her liver than in her breast as her husband hyperventilated into a paper bag next to her. As Elissa tackled her eight rounds of chemotherapy, she received many gifts of candles, blankets, and meals. She shares that while those gifts were extremely thoughtful from her loved ones, the items weren’t things she actually needed and began to brainstorm a way to benefit both the patient and supporters who desperately want to help their loved one through this journey. Elissa quickly landed on a registry where cancer patients could curate a list of things they need during treatment. Registries are used to celebrate things such as weddings and baby showers, why not to help with the bad times and not just the good times? From this idea, wegotthis.org was born. The first ever registry designed for cancer patients that provides one space for them to outline all their needs for loved ones asking how they can help. This site takes away the guessing game from the supporters while also not fatiguing the cancer patient from constantly having to think of what they need each time a loved one asks. Supporters can purchase items from their listed registry, collect donations, and streamline the process of how to help. In addition to creating wegothis.org , Elissa is an active advocate for cancer patients. She speaks honestly about her journey with metastatic cancer and why she prefers the term thriver instead of survivor. Elissa is both an informative and humorous voice on social media, continuing to help build communities and share resources for all those affected with cancer. Make sure to join us for her candid and educational episode! Episode Resources: We Got This: https://wegotthis.org/ https://www.instagram.com/wegotthisorg/ https://www.facebook.com/wegotthis.org UPenn Medicine GLP-1’s & Breast Cancer Study: https://www.pennmedicine.org/news/glp-1-use-linked-to-lower-breast-cancer-incidence Oklahoma Proton Center https://www.okcproton.com/ https://www.instagram.com/okprotoncenter/ https://www.facebook.com/OKProtonCenter The Cancer Project Podcast https://www.instagram.com/the_cancerproject https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61581844363126 https://www.tiktok.com/@protonguy

This week on The Cancer Project Podcast, we are honored to be joined by former ProCure Treatment Center President and myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) cancer survivor, James Williams. In 2012, James and ProCure began the process of opening the ninth proton therapy center in the United States. In his role as President, James also assisted in the oversight and development of ProCure proton therapy centers in Oklahoma, New Jersey, and Washington. James describes his time working with ProCure and making proton therapy more accessible to cancer patients as one of the most rewarding and fulfilling roles he has ever had. He reflects with The Cancer Project Host and long time friend David Raubach on the beginnings of ProCure and the detail-oriented work that went into the managing of what is now the Oklahoma Proton Center. James provides insight on what his day-to-day was like at the centers, and practices he used that made all the difference in elevating patient care and experience. Later in life after transitioning out of cancer care, James began to notice some troubling symptoms including shortness of breath, extreme fatigue, and eventually collapsing before going to the emergency room. After bringing in Mayo, James was diagnosed with a rare form of blood cancer called myelodysplastic syndrome, also known as MDS. This cancer occurs when blood-forming cells in the bone marrow become abnormal and fail to grow into healthy, mature blood cells. James quickly needed chemotherapy that was followed up by a STEM cell transplant from his son to enable proper blood cell populations and growth. James courageously shares the full MDS journey from diagnosis, extensive time in the hospital for treatment, and how he continues to live with MDS today. After getting the myelodysplastic syndrome under control, James developed a relationship with the MDS foundation and speaks about his passion for what they do and his involvement on their board of directors. To learn more about myelodysplastic syndrome and the MDS Foundation please visit their website listed in resources below! Episode Resources: MDS Foundation: https://www.mds-foundation.org/ https://www.instagram.com/mdsfoundation/ https://www.facebook.com/MDSFoundation Oklahoma Proton Center https://www.okcproton.com/ https://www.instagram.com/okprotoncenter/ https://www.facebook.com/OKProtonCenter The Cancer Project Podcast https://www.instagram.com/the_cancerproject https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61581844363126 https://www.tiktok.com/@protonguy

Beginning in second grade, seven year old Katie VanArnam and her family knew something wasn’t quite right after she had been experiencing extensive pain throughout her body. After months of speculation and misdiagnoses, eight year old Katie’s test results revealed it was Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma. On this inspiring episode of The Cancer Project Podcast, we are joined by the mother-daughter duo Katie VanArnam and Casey Glazer. Together, they took their experience from the cancer journey and channeled it into Courage Tees, a specialty t-shirt company designed for patients that require easy access to a chest port to receive treatment. On Katie’s first day of chemotherapy, her medical team needed extensive access to her port and had to lift her shirt all the way up to her neck. Katie’s mom Casey saw the sheer discomfort her daughter was in, and that night went home and made the first ever courage tee! Casey took an old pink soccer shirt and made a cut along the collar to where Katie’s port was located and added velcro. This design enabled Katie to receive the care she needed while still wearing a comfortable shirt. This was only the beginning for Courage Tees. Katie is now a student at the University of Southern California studying journalism and entrepreneurship. Today, Courage Tees now offers many colorful tee designs created for both children and adults. These shirts are carefully crafted to meet the many needs of someone receiving extensive medical treatment. They utilize plastic snaps at the collar to maintain modesty and comfort while still giving health care workers full access to the medical port. The use of plastic instead of metal also makes the shirt safe to wear to diagnostic screenings such as a PET or CT scan. In addition to speaking on the story and inspiration behind Courage Tees, Katie and Casey share the full experience of the long process of diagnosis, two years of cancer treatment, and the difficulties of navigating pediatric cancer and how it still affects them today. We are so grateful to both Katie and Casey for bravely sharing their journey and the mission of Courage Tees! Episode Resources: Courage Tees: https://www.couragetees.com/ https://www.instagram.com/courage_tees/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61583604203162 https://www.tiktok.com/@courage_tees?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc Oklahoma Proton Center https://www.okcproton.com/ https://www.instagram.com/okprotoncenter/ https://www.facebook.com/OKProtonCenter The Cancer Project Podcast https://www.instagram.com/the_cancerproject https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61581844363126 https://

With over twenty years of experience, Dr. Ajay Bhatnagar joins The Cancer Project Podcast to discuss low-dose rate (LDR) Brachytherapy. His practice utilizes this unique procedure to treat localized prostate cancer for patients from all over the country. Dr. Bhatnagar shares where his passion for brachytherapy began back in medical school at the University of Pennsylvania, and how at his practice, patients can receive localized anesthesia for LDR brachytherapy and even drive themselves home after. He highlights the advantages of no operating room, no going under advanced anesthesia, reduced toxicity, and short recovery times, which can be very beneficial to the older demographics. Low-dose rate brachytherapy utilizes small rice-sized radioactive seeds that are planted near the tumor to give off high concentrations of radiation to cancerous cells while mitigating toxicity to healthy tissues. These seeds can stay permanently in the body, eventually losing all radioactivity. Dr. Bhatnagar explains this procedure and why he is so passionate about it for localized prostate cancer. He also touches on the three different types of radioactive seeds offered at his practice and the difference between each. While brachytherapy has become less common in the last two decades, Dr. Bhatnagar speaks on its continued value and the importance of always getting a second or third opinion. Advocating and educating for yourself has never been more important as new information from untrustworthy sources continues to show up in social media feeds and online. Host David Raubach and Dr. Bhatnagar discusses the mission of providing trustworthy information to those going through a cancer diagnosis, especially prostate cancer, which has many options for viable treatments and can be especially difficult to determine the best fit. Episode Resources: Dr. Ajay Bhatnagar’s Book: https://www.amazon.com/Modern-Dose-Brachytherapy-Prostate-Cancer/dp/B0DGD483V2 https://prostatecancerusa.com/ Oklahoma Proton Center https://www.okcproton.com/ https://www.instagram.com/okprotoncenter/ https://www.facebook.com/OKProtonCenter The Cancer Project Podcast https://www.instagram.com/the_cancerproject https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61581844363126 https://www.tiktok.com/@protonguy

On this sentimental episode of The Cancer Project Podcast, we welcome Peyton Washington! Peyton is the oldest daughter of Jenny Washington, former Vice President of Operations at the Oklahoma Proton Center who passed away from glioblastoma in June 2024. We are honored to have Peyton on our podcast as we reflect on Jenny’s exemplary character and her relentless pursuit of helping people, both in her role at the Oklahoma Proton Center and in everyday life. Jenny served as a pillar of the center and community, working her way up to Vice President of Operations after previously working as a dosimetrist and radiation therapist. One of her greatest joys in life was helping patients in any way possible as they navigate cancer treatment. Peyton Washington shares the patience and grace Jenny carried as a mom and grandmother to her son, Weston. She emphasizes the care and enthusiasm she brought to every corner of her life, especially her family. Peyton reflects on her mom’s diagnosis as symptoms very suddenly began to manifest. She walks us through the timeline of diagnosis, treatment, and eventually hospice prior to Jenny’s passing. As the oldest of four, Peyton speaks about the role the family played as caregivers throughout the journey and the difficulties of helping make decisions while actively trying to come to terms with the severity of the diagnosis. Today, the Oklahoma Proton Center has an award named after Jenny that is given out biannually to an employee who embodies her character: passionate, kind, caring, and goes above and beyond for patients. We love and miss you Jenny and strive to carry on your beautiful mission and legacy of helping patients everyday. Episode Resources: In Loving Memory Of Jenny: https://www.okcproton.com/what-remains-when-words-fall-away/ Oklahoma Proton Center https://www.okcproton.com/ https://www.instagram.com/okprotoncenter/ https://www.facebook.com/OKProtonCenter The Cancer Project Podcast https://www.instagram.com/the_cancerproject https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61581844363126 https://www.tiktok.com/@protonguy

Pauls Valley native and former Oklahoma Football defensive back Karl Peters comes from a large family and is the second youngest of fourteen children. In this week’s episode of The Cancer Project Podcast, Karl reflects on his many fond memories growing up in a big family including following in his older brother's footsteps of playing defensive back for the University of Oklahoma. With a family history of prostate cancer, Karl was always diligent in his screenings and acted quickly after an increase in his PSA (prostate-specific antigen) levels. After a confirmation of prostate cancer, his doctor recommended surgery as early as the next week. Karl upon hearing the recovery time for the procedure, researched prostate cancer treatment options and found proton therapy available in Oklahoma City. Karl went on to receive treatment at the Oklahoma Proton Center, and shares his experience from his intake appointment, insurance battle, receiving treatment, and even coming back months later to provide lunch to the entire staff! Karl emphasizes the family setting he experienced, and it reminded him of growing up in Pauls Valley which inspired the barbecue! Episode Resources: Oklahoma Proton Center https://www.okcproton.com/ https://www.instagram.com/okprotoncenter/ https://www.facebook.com/OKProtonCenter The Cancer Project Podcast https://www.instagram.com/the_cancerproject https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61581844363126 https://www.tiktok.com/@protonguy

In the summer before beginning her senior year of high school, Brooklyn Hawkins began experiencing daily fevers, shortness of breath, and overall physical fatigue. She found herself in-and-out of the doctors office, each time experiencing more concern for her growing symptoms. After continuing to advocate for herself, Brooklyn received scans that would reveal a Hodgkin's Lymphoma diagnosis at seventeen years old. While navigating life as a senior in high school, Brooklyn suddenly found herself in a whirlwind journey of being diagnosed with cancer and having a full treatment plan within a week. She courageously shares her day-to-day life receiving a rigorous schedule of chemotherapy and the many hospitalizations that accompanied cancer treatment. Brooklyn’s experience was unique in that she received treatment at both a children’s and adult hospital. She speaks about the feeling of not belonging at either hospital as a teenager. Brooklyn channeled these feelings of alienation and not being understood into “In The Middle Of A Miracle”, a nonprofit that provides love and support for Oklahoma pediatric cancer patients with an emphasis on teenagers. In The Middle Of A Miracle continues to grow today and was adopted as the local philanthropy for Brooklyn’s sorority at Oklahoma State University. Her non-profit organization hosts events, various programs, and even provides scholarships to pediatric cancer patients in need. To learn more about In The Middle Of A Miracle and the many ways to get involved or support please visit the resources below! Episode Resources: In The Middle Of A Miracle: https://www.inthemiddleofamiracle.org/ https://www.instagram.com/inthemiddleofamiracle https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100092705070509 Oklahoma Proton Center https://www.okcproton.com/ https://www.instagram.com/okprotoncenter/ https://www.facebook.com/OKProtonCenter The Cancer Project Podcast https://www.instagram.com/the_cancerproject https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61581844363126 https://www.tiktok.com/@protonguy

In this powerful and inspiring episode of The Cancer Project, we are joined by breast cancer survivor Priscilla Ballesteros. At age twenty-eight Priscilla was diagnosed with breast cancer while seventeen weeks pregnant. Priscilla sits down with Host David Raubach to share her testimony and cancer journey that included chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation. Priscilla courageously shares the process of being diagnosed while entering her second trimester after an abnormal scan of a swollen lymph node. She speaks about the many conversations necessary for treatment planning while considering quality of life for both herself and unborn child. Priscilla received three chemotherapy treatments prior to delivering her son Ezra. Over the next six months, she would receive another thirteen rounds of chemotherapy followed by surgery and radiation. Faith is at the core of the Ballesteros family, and they affectionately refer to their son Ezra as a miracle from God. Priscilla passionately shares how her relationship with her faith is what kept her grounded through her diagnosis and treatment. She also speaks about approaching life and medicine with a holistic approach, and what that looks like in her day-to-day life. Priscilla found hope and joy in other women sharing their cancer journey while pregnant and found an incredible community of women on social media. After experiencing the community and positivity sharing can create first-hand, Priscilla embraced content creation once she was physically and mentally ready. To experience more of Priscilla’s inspiring journey please visit her socials below as she honestly and authentically shares her survivorship journey! Episode Resources: Connect With Priscilla Ballesteros https://www.instagram.com/priscillaballesteros/ https://www.tiktok.com/@priscillaballesteros?lang=en Oklahoma Proton Center https://www.okcproton.com/ https://www.instagram.com/okprotoncenter/ https://www.facebook.com/OKProtonCenter The Cancer Project Podcast https://www.instagram.com/the_cancerproject https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61581844363126 https://www.tiktok.com/@protonguy

With a background in investment banking, Hadley Ford had never heard of proton therapy prior to meeting nuclear physicist Dr. John Cameron. Dr. Cameron was a true pioneer in making proton therapy more accessible to the United States as a groundbreaking cancer treatment. Hadley and Dr. Cameron joined forces, making their commitment and company official over breakfast with a napkin with one primary goal: to make proton therapy accessible for children. On this episode of The Cancer Project Podcast, Hadley Ford shares how he and Dr. Cameron partnered to create ProCure, a trailblazer in cancer treatment providers. ProCure would go on to oversee the building of four proton therapy centers across the United States, including our very own Oklahoma Proton Center! Hadley reflects on partnering with Aubrey McClendon and the process of building the first ProCure center in Oklahoma City and the aggressive timeline and budget set for the project of 24 months and 100 million dollars. This accomplishment was unheard of at the time of completion in September 2009. As Hadley reflects, he recalls walking the plot of land for the first time and the overwhelming emotions he felt as the hard work and plans began to come to fruition. Many of the traditions created by ProCure and the board of directors are still implemented at the Oklahoma Proton Center today, such as the patient graduation luncheon. In an emotional moment, Hadley recollects a pediatric patient who was told by doctors in her home country of Holland that the tumor wrapped around her spine would mean she would never walk again after treatment. With a smile she took her graduation challenge coin and skipped back over to her mother, silencing Hadley and overwhelming him with gratitude for the opportunity to help bring Dr. Cameron’s vision to life. Join us in this week's episode as we learn about the rigorous logistical planning, capital demands, and passion for the project required to build a proton therapy center. Episode Resources: Oklahoma Proton Center https://www.okcproton.com/ https://www.instagram.com/okprotoncenter/ https://www.facebook.com/OKProtonCenter The Cancer Project Podcast https://www.instagram.com/the_cancerproject https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61581844363126 https://www.tiktok.com/@protonguy

In this special episode of The Cancer Project Podcast, Dr. Mark Storey rejoins colleague David Raubach to reflect on his seven years at Oklahoma Proton Center and the next chapter of his career. Dr. Storey joined OPC in 2019 with a clear mission: to advance proton therapy while improving both patient outcomes and the overall patient experience in radiation oncology.As he begins this new season of life, Dr. Storey shares what his career as a radiation oncologist has meant to him, the lessons he’s learned along the way, and the advice he would offer both his younger self and the next generation of physicians. Reflecting on his time at Oklahoma Proton Center, he describes it as “a midlife crisis gone well” and speaks proudly of the culture built around a simple but powerful philosophy: treat every patient the way you would want your own family treated.Looking back on his seven years at OPC, Dr. Storey also looks ahead to the future of cancer care. Drawing on his extensive experience treating head and neck cancers, he discusses the continued evolution of proton therapy and why quality of life should remain at the center of treatment decisions—particularly for cancers located near critical organs, where the benefits of reducing radiation exposure may not always be fully captured in clinical studies.We are grateful to Dr. Storey for taking the time to share his reflections on The Cancer Project Podcast, but even more grateful for the lasting impact he has made on Oklahoma Proton Center. His optimism, thoughtful leadership, and commitment to patient-centered care have shaped our organization in meaningful ways and will continue to influence those who follow. As he begins this exciting new chapter, we thank him for his extraordinary contributions and wish him nothing but the very best.Episode Resources:Dr. Mark Storey’s Substack: https://protons101.substack.com/ Oklahoma Proton Center https://www.okcproton.com/ https://www.instagram.com/okprotoncenter/ https://www.facebook.com/OKProtonCenter The Cancer Project Podcast https://www.instagram.com/the_cancerproject https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61581844363126 https://www.tiktok.com/@protonguy

Medical Director of Tennessee Oncology Proton Therapy Center, Dr. Jim Gray, has spent decades at the forefront of radiation oncology. In this episode, he reflects on the remarkable evolution of cancer treatment throughout his career—from the days of manually contouring treatment plans in medical school to today’s highly advanced technologies that allow for unprecedented precision.Having witnessed many of the field’s most significant breakthroughs firsthand, Dr. Gray shares the advancements that have had the greatest impact on patient care. He discusses the unique advantages of proton therapy, how it differs from traditional photon radiation, and the role he believes it will continue to play in the future of cancer treatment.As a radiation oncologist, Dr. Gray has long educated patients about cancer screening and the importance of understanding family history. After losing his father to prostate cancer and noticing a rise in his own PSA (prostate-specific antigen) levels, he recognized the importance of taking immediate action.Soon after, Dr. Gray found himself facing a diagnosis of prostate cancer—the very disease he treats every day. Experiencing cancer from the patient’s perspective gave him a new understanding of the physical and emotional realities of treatment. In this candid conversation, he shares what it was like to be on “the other end of the beam” and how undergoing proton therapy himself has deepened his empathy and strengthened his relationships with patients.Join us on this week’s episode of The Cancer Project Podcast as Dr. Gray discusses the evolution of radiation oncology, the benefits and future of proton therapy, and the lessons he learned while navigating cancer not as a physician, but as a patient.Episode Resources:Oklahoma Proton Center https://www.okcproton.com/ https://www.instagram.com/okprotoncenter/ https://www.facebook.com/OKProtonCenter The Cancer Project Podcast https://www.instagram.com/the_cancerproject https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61581844363126 https://www.tiktok.com/@protonguy

On this informative episode of The Cancer Project, host David Raubach sits down with longtime industry colleague and friend Marc Mlyn, President of U.S. Operations at RaySearch Laboratories.Drawing on decades of experience in radiation oncology, Marc has a unique ability to translate complex technologies and clinical concepts into understandable, real-world insights.In their conversation, David and Marc explore the evolution of radiation oncology, from the early days of treatment planning to today’s advanced photon and proton therapy techniques. As cancer detection and treatment technologies have progressed, Marc explains the critical role that medical software companies like RaySearch have played in improving precision, efficiency, and patient outcomes.Marc reflects on how treatment planning was performed at the start of his career compared to the sophisticated technologies available today. While the fundamental goal remains the same—the tools and capabilities used to achieve that goal have transformed dramatically.The discussion also looks ahead to the future of cancer care. Marc shares his perspective on the growing role of artificial intelligence in radiation oncology, particularly its potential to improve contouring, better protect organs at risk, and further enhance treatment accuracy and outcomes for patients.Episode Resources:Oklahoma Proton Center https://www.okcproton.com/ https://www.instagram.com/ okprotoncenter/ https://www.facebook.com/ OKProtonCenter The Cancer Project Podcast https://www.instagram.com/the_cancerproject https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61581844363126 https://www.tiktok.com/@protonguy