When cancer enters the room, clarity can vanish. We dive straight into that moment—what gets heard, what gets lost, and how mental health care can restore focus when everything tilts. With medical oncologist Dr. Nina Balanchivadze, palliative care psychiatrist Dr. Kyle Lavin, and patient Melissa, we map the real terrain: shock at diagnosis, sleepless nights, caregiver overload, survivor guilt, and the quiet dread behind “staying strong.”

Dr. B explains how she balances tumor biology with human reality, using both formal screening (PHQ-9, GAD-7) and subtle cues to catch distress early. She names the burdens some patients undergo: identity shifts from hair loss, financial strain, and the emotional cost of being “the fighter.”

Dr. Lavin opens the door to a different standard: a collaborative care model that brings a care manager and consulting psychiatrist onto the oncology team. The result is faster access, tailored brief therapies, careful medication choices that avoid cancer drug interactions, and measurable improvements in depression, anxiety, and quality of life.

Melissa’s story shows the stakes. A rare diagnosis, rapid referrals, and leading-edge immunotherapy didn’t spare her from fear or uncertainty. What changed everything was timely, plainspoken support from professionals outside her family who could navigate the system, push for results, and teach practical tools. Together, they make the case for a culture shift: treat mental health as the fourth pillar of oncology, offer it from day one, and remove the stigma so help arrives when it’s needed most.

If this conversation resonates, share it with someone facing cancer, subscribe for more human-centered oncology, and leave a review to help others find these tools and stories.

To learn more about Cerula Care visit: https://cerulacare.com/

Thank you for listening! If you're interested in hearing more from Virginia Oncology Associates, make sure to subscribe to Cancer Care Connections on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anywhere podcasts are available, or listen online at cancercareconnections.buzzsprout.com.

Cancer Care Connections is the official podcast of Virginia Oncology Associates. For more information, visit us at VirginiaCancer.com. or find us on Facebook or Instagram at Virginia Oncology Associates.

A shattered helmet, a rebuilt face, and a diagnosis that changed everything...Kevin Johnson’s story grabs you by the hand and walks you from crisis to clarity. We sit down with the longtime educator turned advocate to unpack the hard-won lessons he learned after a near-fatal cycling crash that led to the discovery of chronic lymphocytic leukemia and, later, a rare eye involvement that many clinicians missed. What follows is a candid look at how gratitude, purpose, and community can transform the cancer experience for patients and caregivers alike.

Kevin explains how he initially kept quiet during his cancer journey and how a meetup with a friend gave way to a new mission: co-leading Man Up to Cancer in Virginia and supporting chapters across the South. We talk about the practical tools that support men during their cancer journey: chemo backpacks, local and virtual support groups, and an annual retreat that blends education with adventure. Along the way, Kevin names the uncomfortable truth: men often wait too long to seek support. Simple invitations from spouses, friends, clinicians, and even fire departments have become the lifeline that brings them into a network where honesty and humor coexist with treatment plans and scan days.

We also highlight how peer connection improves adherence, symptom reporting, and overall quality of life. This is a powerful reminder that outcomes improve when men speak up, and that no one has to walk this path alone.

If this conversation resonates, share it with someone who needs strength today!

Resources:

https://manuptocancer.org/

https://imermanangels.org/

https://www.reelrecovery.org/

Thank you for listening! If you're interested in hearing more from Virginia Oncology Associates, make sure to subscribe to Cancer Care Connections on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anywhere podcasts are available, or listen online at cancercareconnections.buzzsprout.com.

Cancer Care Connections is the official podcast of Virginia Oncology Associates. For more information, visit us at VirginiaCancer.com. or find us on Facebook or Instagram at Virginia Oncology Associates.

The future of cancer care is happening right now through clinical research, and patients in Hampton Roads have front-row access to these groundbreaking treatments at Virginia Oncology Associates (VOA).

Wendi Gobhardt, Director of Research Operations, and Chris Morris, Clinical Research Manager, reveal how clinical trials work and why they matter. With backgrounds deeply rooted in cancer care, Wendi, an oncology nurse, and Chris motivated by personal loss to breast cancer, bring both professional expertise and heartfelt commitment to advancing cancer treatments.

The conversation breaks the clinical trial process, explaining how treatments progress through phases from initial safety testing to becoming standard of care. Contrary to the "guinea pig" misconception, patients in trials often receive more attentive monitoring and what VOA calls "concierge service" throughout their treatment journey. With 64 active trials covering breast cancer, blood cancers, prostate cancer, and more, VOA offers local access to treatments that previously required travel to distant medical centers.

Most exciting are the advancements these trials enable, personalized medicine targeting specific molecular characteristics of tumors, innovative radiopharmaceuticals delivering radiation through IV administration rather than external beams, and cellular therapies like CAR-T are transforming outcomes for patients who previously had limited options.

For those considering participation, the experts offer practical advice: thoroughly review consent documents, ask lots of questions, bring family to appointments as "extra ears," and understand all available options. Every patient who participates not only potentially benefits themselves but contributes valuable data that helps future generations.

Resources

https://clinicaltrials.gov/

https://www.nih.gov/health-information/nih-clinical-research-trials-you

https://www.virginiacancer.com/clinical-trials

https://www.scri.com/

Thank you for listening! If you're interested in hearing more from Virginia Oncology Associates, make sure to subscribe to Cancer Care Connections on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anywhere podcasts are available, or listen online at cancercareconnections.buzzsprout.com.

Cancer Care Connections is the official podcast of Virginia Oncology Associates. For more information, visit us at VirginiaCancer.com. or find us on Facebook or Instagram at Virginia Oncology Associates.

One of the most powerful tools in cancer prevention is sitting right in front of us, yet many of us delay using it. Dr. Edwin Lee, gastroenterologist with Capital Digestive Care, joins us to demystify colon cancer screening and explain why catching this disease early changes everything.

Dr. Lee takes us through the critical importance of colon cancer screening and the significant guideline change that now recommends starting at age 45 instead of 50. This adjustment wasn't arbitrary – it's already saving lives by catching dangerous polyps in younger patients before they develop into cancer.
The conversation demystifies the screening process, comparing stool-based testing options with colonoscopy, which Dr. Lee describes as a "two-in-one" procedure that both detects and removes potential threats. He walks us through what happens during a colonoscopy, how doctors measure their effectiveness through adenoma detection rates, and why family history might mean you need screening much earlier than you think.

For those hesitant about screening, Dr. Lee offers reassurance that modern procedures are much more comfortable than in the past. With improved preparation solutions and effective anesthesia, there's no reason to postpone this potentially life-saving test. Whether you're approaching 45, have a family history of colon cancer, or simply want to be proactive about your health, this episode provides the information you need to take that crucial step. Don't let fear or inconvenience stand in the way of this life-saving screening - schedule your appointment today.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• American College of Gastroenterology https://gi.org/patients/
• Capital Digestive Care (colon cancer prevention) https://www.capitaldigestivecare.com/colon-cancer-prevention/

Thank you for listening! If you're interested in hearing more from Virginia Oncology Associates, make sure to subscribe to Cancer Care Connections on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anywhere podcasts are available, or listen online at cancercareconnections.buzzsprout.com.

Cancer Care Connections is the official podcast of Virginia Oncology Associates. For more information, visit us at VirginiaCancer.com. or find us on Facebook or Instagram at Virginia Oncology Associates.

Dr. Yue Zhang breaks down the complex world of GI malignancies, explaining how colorectal, pancreatic, liver, esophageal, and stomach cancers each present unique challenges. She explains why these cancers are often detected too late—when treatment options become limited—and how proper screening can dramatically change outcomes.

While screening guidelines continue evolving, Dr. Zhang emphasizes that personalized risk assessment should guide decisions about when and how to screen. First-degree relatives with GI cancers, certain genetic mutations, chronic conditions like cirrhosis or acid reflux, and lifestyle factors all influence individual risk profiles. For many, a combination of regular physical exams, appropriate screening tests, and attention to warning signs like unexplained weight loss or chronic digestive issues can make the difference between early intervention and limited treatment options.

Despite these challenges, Dr. Zhang remains hopeful about the future of cancer care: "Throughout the years, our cancer care has advanced dramatically. I see my patients living longer lives. I have more tools, more medications, more clinical trials." She concludes with powerful prevention advice: maintain a healthy weight, eat fresh foods, exercise regularly, avoid smoking, limit alcohol, and perhaps most importantly—prioritize your health.

Dr. Yue Zhang earned her medical degree from Peking Union Medical College and gained her Master of Public Health in both epidemiology and biostatistics from Boston University School of Public Health. She completed her internal medicine residency at the North Shore-Long Island Jewish Medical Center in New York, and Hematology/Oncology fellowship at Yale-New Haven Hospital in Connecticut. She became an assistant professor of medicine afterwards and worked at the academic center at Stony Brook University Hospital (SBUH) in New York. During her time with SBUH, Dr. Zhang gained expertise in gastrointestinal cancer care and treatments for genitourinary cancer patients. She was the principal investigator for multiple clinical trials, published numerous papers in peer-reviewed journals, and was invited to speak at many professional conferences, editorial boards, and advisory boards. She is highly respected by her peers for continuously providing education to medical students, residents, and fellows, and has received many awards for her excellent patient care.

Dr. Zhang was recruited by the physician team at Virginia Oncology Associates due in part to her cutting-edge knowledge and expertise in treating pancreatic cancer, colorectal cancer, liver cancer, renal cell carcinoma, and other cancer types.

Dr. Zhang believes in personalized medicine and is passionate about curing cancer. A good quality of life for cancer patients and their individual needs are her highest priorities.

Thank you for listening! If you're interested in hearing more from Virginia Oncology Associates, make sure to subscribe to Cancer Care Connections on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anywhere podcasts are available, or listen online at cancercareconnections.buzzsprout.com.

Cancer Care Connections is the official podcast of Virginia Oncology Associates. For more information, visit us at VirginiaCancer.com. or find us on Facebook or Instagram at Virginia Oncology Associates.

What if understanding your genetic makeup could transform your approach to health care? Genetic testing is revolutionizing how we approach hereditary cancer risks, offering hope for prevention and personalized care. Dr. Ranjit Goudar shares insights on the Hereditary Cancer Clinic at Virginia Oncology Associates, emphasizing individualized approaches and the importance of genetic counseling for informed decision-making.

Dr. Goudar's work influences the lives of numerous families, underlining the importance of personalized care with inspiring stories, like that of two sisters who share a BRCA2 mutation but chose different paths for prevention.

Inspired by our personal experiences and driven by a mission to aid patients, we offer guidance and resources to ensure that everyone can make informed decisions about their health. The Virginia Oncology Associates website provides additional support.

Ranjit K. Goudar, MD is a Virginia Beach native and son of a physician. He received his Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry from the University of Virginia, where he was a Jefferson Scholar. He earned his medical degree and completed his residency in internal medicine and fellowship in hematology/oncology at Duke University. He is a graduate of the City of Hope Intensive Course in Cancer Risk Assessment. Dr. Goudar is board-certified in Medical Oncology and Hematology.

While caring for patients with a broad range of cancers and blood disorders, Dr. Goudar’s particular clinical interests include the care of patients with breast cancer, colorectal cancer, and patients at high risk of cancer due to family history or cancer gene mutations. He serves as the director of the Hereditary Cancer Clinic at the Brock Cancer Center in Norfolk.

Dr. Goudar is the Division Chief of Hematology and Oncology at Eastern Virginia Medical School, where he supervises the training of internal medicine residents. He is the author of several research publications and book chapters.

Resources Mention in this Podcast:

• Podcast episode (aired 9/6/2023): The Important Role Genetic Counselors Play in Genetic Testing with Tifany Lewis

Other Resources to consider:

• Podcast episode (aired 9/27/2023): Understanding the Genetics of Breast Cancer with Dr. Sonia Hepburn

Thank you for listening! If you're interested in hearing more from Virginia Oncology Associates, make sure to subscribe to Cancer Care Connections on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anywhere podcasts are available, or listen online at cancercareconnections.buzzsprout.com.

Cancer Care Connections is the official podcast of Virginia Oncology Associates. For more information, visit us at VirginiaCancer.com. or find us on Facebook or Instagram at Virginia Oncology Associates.

Join us as we welcome Gina Bright, an infusion nurse and remarkable author. She offers a heartfelt narrative about her early encounters with AIDS patients amid the fear and stigma of the 1980s and shines a light on the compassion and resilience required in nursing. Her unique blend of caregiving and literary talent offers an enlightening perspective on the vital role nurses play in the healthcare system. Her novel, The Charon Club, draws from personal experiences to depict the multifaceted roles of nurses, who navigate not only medical challenges but also the profound personal journeys of their patients.

Gina M. Bright, RN, PhD, OCN, has worked as a registered nurse in the fields of oncology and AIDS for several decades. Gina’s first novel, The Charon Club, was released in 2023 and was an NIEA Finalist for General Fiction in 2024. She wrote a non-fiction book, Plague-Making and the AIDS Epidemic: A Story of Discrimination (Palgrave Macmillan, 2012) years after working on an AIDS unit in NYC. Several of her short stories have been published and one of them has been included in the recently released anthology, Across the Moors and Tides: A Historical Fiction Anthology of the United Kingdom and its Territories (2024). Gina has a doctorate in medieval English literature works as an oncology nurse at Virginia Oncology Associates.

Thank you for listening! If you're interested in hearing more from Virginia Oncology Associates, make sure to subscribe to Cancer Care Connections on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anywhere podcasts are available, or listen online at cancercareconnections.buzzsprout.com.

Cancer Care Connections is the official podcast of Virginia Oncology Associates. For more information, visit us at VirginiaCancer.com. or find us on Facebook or Instagram at Virginia Oncology Associates.

Join us for an enlightening conversation with Dr. Jacob Hall, a radiation oncologist at Virginia Oncology Associates (VOA). Dr. Hall is on a mission to bring the technological advances of oncology into the realm of osteoarthritis management to VOA, offering an alternative that provides lasting pain relief without the invasiveness of surgery. Discover how six sessions of low-dose radiation treatment are not only transforming patients' experiences but also enhancing their quality of life by reducing pain.

In this episode, we discuss the process of using radiation therapy across various joints, such as knees, hips, and shoulders, and highlight the profound impact this treatment can have. We also emphasize the importance of personalized care, encouraging you to start your journey with a primary care doctor and explore further resources on Virginia Oncology Associates' website. If you're seeking new avenues for managing osteoarthritis, this episode promises to expand your understanding and inspire hope for those living with joint pain.

Dr. Jacob Hall completed his radiation oncology residency at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University and received his Doctor of Medicine from Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine.

Dr. Hall's clinical expertise encompasses a wide range of advanced radiation techniques, including intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), brachytherapy, stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR), and stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS). He has a special interest in head and neck and central nervous system tumors but is experienced in treating a broad spectrum of cancer diagnoses.

In addition to his clinical skills, Dr. Hall is a productive researcher with peer-reviewed publications focusing on reducing radiation toxicity and improving quality of life. His research interests include integrating advanced radiation techniques with systemic therapies and enhancing cancer care outcomes through innovative treatment approaches. He is also interested in the treatment of benign diseases with radiation, particularly osteoarthritis (OA). He served as the principal investigator for a study investigating OA during his time at the University of North Carolina. He also served on the University of North Carolina Radiation Oncology Research Advisory Committee. His research has been presented at national and international conferences, including the American Society for Radiation Oncology Annual Meeting, the American Society of Clinical Oncology Gastrointestinal Cancers Symposium, and the American Head and Neck Society International Conference on Head and Neck Cancer.

Recognized for his contributions to the field and academic excellence, Dr. Hall was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honor Society during medical school. He holds memberships in professional organizations such as the American Society for Radiation Oncology and the American Medical Association.

Thank you for listening! If you're interested in hearing more from Virginia Oncology Associates, make sure to subscribe to Cancer Care Connections on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anywhere podcasts are available, or listen online at cancercareconnections.buzzsprout.com.

Cancer Care Connections is the official podcast of Virginia Oncology Associates. For more information, visit us at VirginiaCancer.com. or find us on Facebook or Instagram at Virginia Oncology Associates.