Hope In The Face of Cancer

Greg King was in his 30s, building a new chapter of life, when a testicular cancer diagnosis changed everything. 

In this episode, Greg speaks candidly about fear, isolation, brain fog, and the disorienting question of how to tell the people you love that your life has just changed. He also opens up about the often unspoken reality of facing fertility decisions during treatment, and what it means to carry both hope and uncertainty at the same time. 

Bu this isn’t just a story of disruption. It’s one of rising. Of finding purpose in chaos...

Some seasons remind us just how much hope is out there.

In this solo episode, Darcie reflects on the extraordinary ripple effect of National Cancer Survivors Month. A month spent celebrating survivorship, resilience, and the stories that continue to move us.

From hospital book drops to raw conversations, from quiet acts of courage to public gatherings, this month became a living portrait of what it means to show up for one another. With the help of our partners and the hearts of our volunteers, hope found its way into waiting rooms, comuninity events, and hospital...

In this special episode, recorded on-location at SheSpace in Houston, three remarkable cancer survivors Shawntell, Renee, and Keith come together for an unforgettable panel conversation. With over 40 years of combined survivorship, they share hard earned wisdom, deep reflection, and enduring hope. Hosted by Darcie Wells, this heartfelt discussion explores the raw beginnings of each survivor’s journey, the healing power of community, and the reflections they shared in the Hope in the Face of Cancer book.

What unfolds is more than a panel. It is a moving, joy-filled exchange between three people who found common ground in th...

What does it mean to lead with both clinical expertise and deep compassion, especially when you’ve experienced the waiting room not only as a nurse, but as a family member?

What does it mean to lead with both knowledge and compassion when you’ve not only worn the badge of a nurse, but also experienced the waiting room as a loved one?

Jacqueline Brock, Chief Nursing Executive at Harris Health, Doctor of Nursing Practice, and CanCare board member, opens up about how caregiving for her loved ones through cancer shaped her calling.

Toda...

Lillian Vanvieldt-Grey is a powerhouse in every sense of the word; a senior executive, a fierce advocate, and a stage III breast cancer survivor turned thriver.

In this episode, Lillian opens up about her diagnosis, the early days of navigating uncertainty, and how she found strength in community, education, and purpose. Her story is not just about surviving, it’s about speaking up, reaching back, and building spaces of support for others walking a similar path.

She shares the powerful origin story of Alliant Insurance’s Cancer Employee Resource Group, a workplace initiative she helped laun...

What happens when the person guiding others through adversity suddenly faces her own? In this deeply moving episode, we sit down with Harriet Cabelly. She’s a therapist, grief counsellor, and author who found herself on the other side of the healing journey after being diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.

Known for helping others rebuild after loss, Harriet opens up about what it was like to face cancer as someone trained to help others in their hardship. She shares tools that helped her through treatment, the surprising joys that showed up in the hardest moments, and the pers...

At just 24 years old, Maddy was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma: an unexpected event that changed everything. Now 31, she’s a certified Integrative Nutrition Health Coach using her experience to guide others post-treatment toward healing through holistic nutrition, movement, mindfulness, and alignment.

In this episode, Maddy opens up about the challenges of facing cancer as a young adult, including the fear of recurrence and the gaps in nutritional support after treatment. She shares how her journey led her to discover the power of whole-person care and how she now walks alongside clients as they reclaim their health and...

Darcie sits down for three inspiring conversations with the women who have shaped CanCare’s past, present, and future.

You’ll hear from:

Anne Turnage, CanCare’s courageous founder, who shares how her personal experience with cancer became the catalyst for a movement rooted in faith, connection, and emotional support.

Nancy Tucker, CanCare’s first CEO, who helped scale and sustain the organization with steady leadership, strategic growth, and deep heart for the mission for over 20 years.

Sandra Beno, current Chairman of the Board, who shares her vision for CanCare’s future and...

CanCare is turns 35 this year — and we’re celebrating with a very special episode of Hope In The Face of Cancer! Join host Darcie Wells, CanCare CEO, as we honor three and a half decades of delivering oneon-one emotional support to those impacted by cancer.

In this anniversary episode, you’ll hear heart-opening stories about the CanCare community and a look back at the moments that shaped our mission. You’ll also hear about CanCare in the early years when Ann sparked this mission that has impacted over 1 Million lives. Plus, Darcie shares a first look at our brand...

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Stephen Brown, a 19-year chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) survivor, Ironman competitor, and dedicated advocate for others facing CLL. At 45 years old, while in peak physical condition, Stephen received a diagnosis that completely shocked him. But instead of letting cancer define him, he leaned on his endurance athlete mindset.

Stephen shares how celebrating small milestones helped him stay focused on the bigger picture and introduces his four guideposts (Feet, Choice, Chocolate, and Movement) that provided strength and perspective during his cancer journey and continue to shape his life today.

2024 was a year of incredible impact at CanCare. In this episode, we’re reflect on the outreach we’ve done, the lives we’ve touched, and the many ways we’ve supported those facing cancer this year. From one-on-one emotional support to community programs and new partnerships, our mission continues to grow, reaching more patients, caregivers, and survivors when they need it most.

Join us as we share the impact of CanCare’s work, the stories that have inspired us, and how we’re continuing to bring hope and healing to those on the cancer journey.

Mentioned...

We’re joined by speaker, entrepreneur, and author James Malinchak, who shares his personal journey of grief, resilience, and gratitude following his sister Vicki’s cancer diagnosis. James recounts his upbringing in a small steel mill town, his path as a basketball player, and his transition into a successful business career. However, his life took an unexpected turn when he received a devastating call—his sister Vicki had a brain tumor and only a few months to live.

James opens up about the shock, grief, and anger he experienced, as well as the profound lessons he learned. He des...

For this special episode of 'Hope in the Face of Cancer', CanCare President and CEO Darcie Wells joins Dorothy Gibbons, founder and CEO of The Rose, on The Rose Podcast: Let's Talk about Your Breasts for a heartfelt conversation about the power of support and connection in the cancer community.

Together, they share what it takes to lead a nonprofit with compassion, how CanCare grew from a local Texas organization to serving people across all 50 states, and how the challenges of the pandemic sparked innovation and growth. Darcie also gives a behind-the-scenes look at the matching and...

In this powerful episode of Hope in the Face of Cancer, we welcome Dr. Ishwaria Subbiah, a trailblazer in oncology and palliative care. Dr. Subbiah shares her inspiring journey growing up in a family of physicians and how it shaped her passion for whole-person cancer care. 

She discusses the transformative power of patient advocacy, the importance of equitable access to clinical trials, and how health policy can ease the burden for patients and caregivers alike. With her focus on activation—helping patients reclaim control—Dr. Subbiah offers hope and actionable steps for those facing a cancer diagnosis. 

T...

In this deeply personal and empowering conversation, Val Howell, a five-time cancer survivor, healthcare leader, and former NFL cheerleader, takes us through her extraordinary journey of resilience, advocacy, and hope. She talks about her diagnosis of squamous cell carcinoma, breast cancer, and three additional cancers from following a challenging road to diagnosis, to her transformative work with CanCare, Val opens up about the lessons she’s learned and the lives she’s touched.

We explore her experience navigating treatment and recovery, the bright moments that gave her strength, and the ways she rediscovered confidence and purpose. Val refl...

We are honored to be joined by Leonard Donaldson, a deeply beloved CanCare volunteer and 32-year survivor of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Leonard has dedicated decades of his life to offering emotional support to those facing cancer, having served over 100 individuals with compassion and wisdom. Often referred to as having a "sixth sense" when connecting with the people he supports, Leonard shares his profound insights on what it truly takes to walk alongside someone through their cancer journey. His message of hope, resilience, and the power of showing up for others is sure to inspire listeners. Join us as Leonard re...

We have the great pleasure to be joined by Dr. Candy Arentz, a pioneering breast cancer surgeon with Houston Methodist and a dedicated advocate for breast cancer awareness. Dr. Arentz shares her inspiring journey into oncology, detailing her passion for patient-centered cancer care and her commitment to advancing the field. She emphasizes the vital role emotional support plays in the healing process, not just for patients, but for their loved ones as well.

Dr. Arentz also offers invaluable advice on patient advocacy, stressing the importance of knowing your body and speaking up when something feels off. Her...

We are honoured to sit down with Dorothy Gibbons, the co-founder and CEO of The Rose, who has dedicated 39 years to transforming women’s health care and breast cancer treatment. Dorothy’s unwavering commitment to ensuring every woman has access to life-saving breast cancer services has made The Rose the leading nonprofit breast health organization in Southeast Texas, serving over 1 million patients since its founding.

Dorothy shares her incredible journey, from starting The Rose in 1986 with a vision to help women in need, to becoming a tireless advocate for changing breast cancer screening guidelines, particularly foryounger women. Thro...

We are joined by Dr. Joni Watson, a pioneer in oncology care. Joni is a 20-year oncology nurse, faculty member, author, and healthcare executive, who has dedicated her career to advancing cancer care. She shares her incredible journey through the evolving world of oncology, emphasizing the importance of patient-centered care and the role of relationships in the healing process. She highlights how cutting-edge technologies, including AI, are revolutionizing personalized cancer treatments and improving the patient’s experience.

Joni also discusses the essential role emotional support plays within the healthcare team and how it impacts patient care. Her fai...

We meet with Jennifer, a resilient breast cancer survivor, and her husband Lloyd, who stood by her side as both a loving partner and a devoted caregiver. Diagnosed with cancer while raising young children, Jennifer faced an overwhelming challenge, but she wasn't alone. Together, Jennifer and Lloyd navigated the difficulties of treatment, parenting, and work, drawing strength from their deep bond and unshakeable positivity.

They share how CanCare volunteers played a crucial role in their journey, offering a listening ear and guidance from those who had walked the same path when they needed it most. Join us...

In this episode of Hope In The Face of Cancer, we sit down with Dr. Keith Saathoff, a 19-year stage-4 lymphoma survivor, loving husband and father, and devoted veterinarian, who shares his incredible journey. Keith discusses the challenges of facing cancer over the past 19 years and highlights the profound connections he made along the way, including meeting his wife, Cheryl most unexpectedly. As a former CanCare client, he reflects on the impact of these relationships on his healing process. Join us as Keith discusses the importance of the relationships he's built throughout his journey and how they continue to...

In this episode of "Hope In The Face of Cancer," we welcome Bill, a remarkable advocate and ultra-marathon runner. Diagnosed with neuroendocrine carcinoma (NEC) in his 30s, Bill faced the daunting challenge of facing cancer while raising a young family. His journey is one of profound perseverance, having undergone over 70 treatments and participated in four clinical trials. Remarkably, Bill would run marathons just days after receiving chemotherapy treatments. Despite these hurdles, Bill has trained as an ultra-marathon runner, using his races to raise awareness about NEC and promote early detection. Join us as Bill shares his inspiring story of...

In this episode, Val shares his journey through a prostate cancer diagnosis and the impact it had on his family. He discusses the crucial support he received from a friend who was also a CanCare volunteer. Val reflects on how cancer helped him reevaluate his life and purpose, leading him to volunteer with CanCare. He eventually joined the board of directors and became the board chair, where he focuses on the organization's strategic direction and expanding its impact. Val's story is a powerful testament to resilience and the transformative power of support. 

Mentioned Resources:

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We explore the profound connections formed between volunteers and clients at CanCare. Berit shares her journey of supporting Ann as she faced the fear of losing her husband to stage four prostate cancer. Over time, their relationship grew beyond client and volunteer, blossoming into a deep and lasting friendship. Berit and Anns story shows the strength and importance of human connection during life's most difficult times. Join us as we celebrate the bonds that can form even in the face of adversity.

Mentioned Resources:

CanCare- www.cancare.org

Facebook: CanCareInc

Instagram: c...

We speak with Rita, a remarkable breast cancer survivor with a heart for service, and Marcella, a program manager at Canopy, a cancer survivorship center at Memorial Hermann The Woodlands. Rita and Marcella share their insights on the true essence of cancer survivorship, which begins at diagnosis and encompasses living with, through, and beyond. They discuss the vital role of Survivorship Centers like Canopy in providing hope, healing, and empowerment throughout the cancer journey. Additionally, we explore how healthcare partnerships, such as the collaboration between CanCare and Memorial Hermann, bridge the gap between medical treatment and emotional support, offering...

Houston media icon speaks with notable Houstonians about their cancer journey, including Donna Lewis, breast cancer survivor and CanCare volunteer, Rosie Carrabba, breast cancer survivor who was Donna’s CanCare client, and Johnny Carrabba, Rosie’s son and CanCare supporter.

Mentioned Resources:

CanCare- www.cancare.org

About the Guests:

Donna Lewis, co-owner, Tootsies, and CanCare Volunteer

Rosie Carabba, matron of Carrabbas Restaurants, and breast cancer survivor

Johnny Carrabba, Founder of Johnny Carrabba Family of Restaurants and Rosie’s son

About the Host:

Shelb...

Discover the power of community and corporate compassion. Through heartfelt conversations with Diane, Jayme, and Sarah from Alliant Insurance Services, you will gain insights into the deeply personal connections these inspiring women have with cancer.

Diane recounts the emotional journey of supporting her mother and mother-in-law, while Sarah bravely shares her experience as a lung cancer survivor. Jayme opens up about her proactive approach after testing positive for the BRCA2 gene, providing a powerful narrative of resilience and prevention.

Dive into the heart of Alliant's pioneering Employee ResourceGroup, ARMS, which stands for Awareness, Resources, Mentorship...

Ever wonder how one man's battle against cancer could transform into a beacon of hope for countless others? Join us as we sit down with Michael Wiesenthal, a former acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) patient turned CanCare volunteer, who shares his inspiring journey from diagnosis to becoming a lifeline for cancer patients.

As a volunteer, Michael sheds light on the deep, meaningful relationships formed with cancer patients and the immense sense of empowerment that comes with wearing the blue lab jacket in hospitals. You'll hear heart-warming stories of personal growth and strengthened bonds and understand how the act...

In this premiere episode of "Hope in the Face of Cancer’ your host, Darcie Wells, shares her hopes for the podcast. In upcoming episodes, she aims to inspire and support those affected by cancer through real stories and shared experiences. Aligning with the mission of CanCare, a nonprofit providing hope and healing through one-on-one emotional support, health care visitations, and online groups, this podcast aims to share personal testimonials, practical advice, and engaging conversations, that foster a sense of community and offer hope.

Love the podcast? You’ll be moved by the book. The Hope in the Face...

Meet your host Darcie Wells and learn what this podcast is all about.