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Ever wondered how a high-stress lifestyle could transform into a health-conscious journey after a life-changing diagnosis? Meet Michelle and Kendall Sandlin, the inspiring mother-daughter duo who share their powerful story on this episode of Test Those Breasts. Michelle, a breast cancer survivor & award-winning writer, opens up about her shift from the chaotic world of freelance writing to prioritizing her health after her diagnosis and the loss of her mother. Her daughter Kendall takes us through her courageous, proactive approach to managing her health by undergoing a double mastectomy and full hysterectomy upon discovering she carried the BRCA1 gene mutation.

The brutal realities of chemotherapy are laid bare as we navigate through its demanding cycles and debilitating side effects. We discuss strategies to manage the fatigue and nausea, and the importance of rebranding those grueling "red devil" treatments into "red warriors" to change patients' mindsets. Get practical tips for preparing for treatment, and understand that while chemotherapy itself might be temporary, its aftereffects are long-lasting. This conversation is designed to support and guide new patients through the overwhelming preparatory stages of their treatment journey.

Transitioning to MD Anderson for cancer care comes with its own set of emotional and logistical challenges, which Kendall courageously recounts, emphasizing the importance of self-advocacy. We delve into her experience of navigating insurance hurdles to receive preventative care and surgery, and the supportive role MD Anderson played. Hear about the vital role of being a "previvor" and the shared experiences that forge strong connections among those in similar situations. Michelle and Kendall's heartfelt advice underscores the significance of maintaining a positive outlook, being vigilant about health matters, and making impactful lifestyle choices. Their journey is a beacon of hope and practical wisdom for anyone facing a cancer diagnosis. Michelle's bestselling book "Cancer Don't Care" on Amazon is one you won't want to pass up!

Contact Michelle:
Michelle on Facebook

Michelle on Instagram

Michelle on Instagram

Are you loving the Test Those Breasts! Podcast? You can show your support by donating to the Test Those Breasts Nonprofit @ https://testthosebreasts.org/donate/

Where to find Jamie:
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Jamie Vaughn in the News!

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I would appreciate your rating and review where you listen to podcasts!

I am not a doctor and not all information in this podcast comes from qualified healthcare providers, therefore may not constitute medical advice. For personalized medical advice, you should reach out to one of the qualified healthcare providers interviewed on this podcast and/or seek medical advice from your own providers .

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Have you ever felt completely lost and overwhelmed by a sudden medical diagnosis? Join us as we sit down with Jennifer Toth Burgoyne , a mother of four and breast cancer survivor, who shares her deeply personal journey from diagnosis to reconstruction surgery. Jennifer recounts how the "Test Those Breasts" podcast provided her with the crucial information and support needed to make informed decisions about her health. We also explore Jennifer's life before cancer, her love for an active lifestyle in Hoboken, New Jersey, and the emotional challenges she faced following her diagnosis. Her story highlights the monumental role that community and accurate information play during such tough times.

Additionally, we dive into the world of breast reconstruction options, featuring personal experiences with different procedures such as the PAP flap and the DIEP flap technique. We discuss the necessity of skilled microsurgeons, the support provided by hospital staff, and the emotional challenges that accompany reconstruction. We also touch on societal stigmas and the impact of well-meaning, yet sometimes hurtful comments. By emphasizing the significance of early detection and education, especially for younger women, this episode serves as a beacon of strength and resilience for breast cancer survivors, offering practical advice and support for those navigating their own journeys.

Contact Jennifer:
Jenburgoyne66@gmail.com

Jennifer Toth Burgoyne on Instagram

Jennifer Toth Burgoyne on Facebook

Are you loving the Test Those Breasts! Podcast? You can show your support by donating to the Test Those Breasts Nonprofit @ https://testthosebreasts.org/donate/

Where to find Jamie:
Instagram LinkedIn TikTok Test Those Breasts Facebook Group LinkTree
Jamie Vaughn in the News!

Thanks for listening!
I would appreciate your rating and review where you listen to podcasts!

I am not a doctor and not all information in this podcast comes from qualified healthcare providers, therefore may not constitute medical advice. For personalized medical advice, you should reach out to one of the qualified healthcare providers interviewed on this podcast and/or seek medical advice from your own providers .

Send us a Text Message.

What do you do when your body rejects something meant to enhance it? On this episode of "Test Those Breasts," we sit down with Stephanie Grimaldi-Lang, a breast cancer survivor who faced an unexpected battle after discovering her breast implants were causing her illness. From her joyous family life filled with boating and off-road adventures, Stephanie opens up about the grueling journey from her breast implant illness diagnosis to finding David Light MD , a renowned breast surgeon, and making the life-altering decision to remove her implants. Stephanie’s candid recount of her research and resilience offers a raw look into the complexities of breast health.

Stephanie's story doesn't end there. Faced with the challenge of a DCIS diagnosis in 2020, she had to navigate tough choices between radiation therapy and a double mastectomy. Through her experience with DIEP Flap reconstruction, we delve into the importance of self-advocacy and obtaining multiple medical opinions. This episode is not just for those navigating breast cancer; it's a testament to early detection, medical guidance, and the power of community support.
Stephanie on Instagram
Breast Implant Illness Info on Instagram

Dr. David Light on Test Those Breasts

Steph's Story on Learn Look Locate

Are you loving the Test Those Breasts! Podcast? You can show your support by donating to the Test Those Breasts Nonprofit @ https://testthosebreasts.org/donate/

Where to find Jamie:
Instagram LinkedIn TikTok Test Those Breasts Facebook Group LinkTree
Jamie Vaughn in the News!

Thanks for listening!
I would appreciate your rating and review where you listen to podcasts!

I am not a doctor and not all information in this podcast comes from qualified healthcare providers, therefore may not constitute medical advice. For personalized medical advice, you should reach out to one of the qualified healthcare providers interviewed on this podcast and/or seek medical advice from your own providers .