Welcome to Everything Cancer! In today's episode, we sit down with Dr. Jonathan Raviotta, PhD in Public Health and Associate Professor at the University of Pittsburgh. Jonathan shares his remarkable four-year journey through cancer and personal transformation. His story is a testament to resilience and the power of human connection.

Jonathan’s treatment journey was profoundly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, adding layers of complexity and isolation. He underwent aggressive treatments, including chemotherapy and two major abdominal surgeries.

Jonathan opens up about his struggles surrounding his ingrained self-reliance, proving a hard habit to break, furthering his sense of isolation.

He sank into the depths of despair.

The pain of his enormous personal challenges straining his marriage is almost tangible in this interview.

He takes us on his transformative journey from lonely darkness to living in the moment.

He shares how therapy, support groups, his online Caring Bridge community, music, participating in church services, and realizing his valuable purpose in his job in critical public health research helped him to embrace life and enjoy each moment.

It’s impossible not to cheer him on as he recounts how his marriage is now stronger than ever.

Dr. Raviotta discusses how shared decision-making with his oncologist for a less frequent treatment schedule allowed for an informed quality-of-life decision that has proven pivotal for him.

His experiences highlight the power of shared decision-making in healthcare, the value of supportive and comprehensive care, and the transformative impact of reaching out to community and support networks.
The Emperor's Court - Caring Bridge - Jonathan Raviotta

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Here is the link for the acclaimed cancer self-advocacy guide by Jill Squire, host of Everything Cancer Podcast
"Cancer Journey Guide and Journals: Empowerment in Diagnosis, Treatment, and Beyond"

Thank you.