When it comes to breast cancer, the journey isn't just about removing the "C-word"—it's about healing the whole person. In this episode of Real Cancer Talk, Dr. Robert Winn and Community Clovia host a conversation about the strides being made in breast cancer care at VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center. We’re stripping away the medical jargon to explore how surgical oncology and plastic surgery work hand-in-hand from the very first day of a diagnosis to ensure patients don't just survive, but thrive.

Joining the conversation is Dr. Kandace McGuire, the Chief of Breast Surgery and Surgical Leader of the Multidisciplinary Breast Health Center at VCU Massey. Dr. McGuire also serves as the Interim Senior Vice President of the Cancer Service Line at VCU Health. As a past president of the Association of Women Surgeons, she is a renowned expert in oncoplastic breast surgery and a tireless advocate for reducing health disparities and improving surgical outcomes for all patients.

Also sharing her expertise is Dr. Paschalia Mountziaris, an Associate Professor of Surgery and the Residency Program Director for Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery at the VCU School of Medicine. With an MD/PhD background and specialized training from MD Anderson Cancer Center, Dr. Mountziaris focuses on complex reconstructive microsurgery. Her work is dedicated to the physical and social recovery of her patients, helping them regain their confidence and quality of life through innovative aesthetic and reconstructive techniques.

Together, these experts discuss the importance of patient-informed choices, the evolution of reconstruction, and how VCU Massey is bridging the gap between cutting-edge science and compassionate community care. Tune in for an empowering look at the strides being made in breast cancer treatment and the team-based approach that is saving lives.

Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.org

Facebook: /vcumasseycancercenter

Instagram: @vcumassey

VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is among an elite group of National Cancer Institute-designated institutions that lead and shape America's cancer research efforts. As a Comprehensive Cancer Center, Massey is recognized for its scientific leadership and its ability to bridge groundbreaking research with life-saving patient care. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education.

Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.

In this special episode of Real Cancer Talk, recorded live from the 2026 American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Annual Meeting in San Diego, Dr. Rob Winn sits down with Dr. Monica Baskin to discuss the intersection of cutting-edge science and community impact.

Dr. Baskin shares the impact of conferences like the AACR Annual Meeting and others have impacted her career. Against the backdrop of the meeting's theme, "Precision, Partnership, Purpose," they explore how the latest global breakthroughs in cancer research are being brought home to the communities served by the VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center.

About Dr. Monica Baskin

Monica L. Baskin, Ph.D., is the interim director of the VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center, a role she assumed in the spring of 2026. A renowned expert in community outreach and engagement, Dr. Baskin also serves as the deputy director of research at Massey and associate dean for cancer innovation in the VCU School of Medicine.

Her research focuses on community-engaged approaches to cancer prevention, specifically addressing lifestyle factors like healthy eating and physical activity to reduce cancer disparities. Throughout her career, she has been a tireless advocate for ensuring that the benefits of scientific discovery reach all populations, particularly those in underserved rural and urban areas.

Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.org

Facebook: /vcumasseycancercenter

Instagram: @vcumassey

VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is among an elite group of National Cancer Institute-designated institutions that lead and shape America’s cancer research efforts. As a Comprehensive Cancer Center, Massey is recognized for its scientific leadership and its ability to bridge groundbreaking research with life-saving patient care.

Working across all types of cancer, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education.

Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000+ researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective ways to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer.

For more information, visit masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY.

In this episode, Dr. Robert Winn sits down with Dr. Reshma Jagsi, a world-renowned leader in radiation oncology and a fierce advocate for equity in medicine. The conversation delves into the "North Star" of cancer care, maintaining humanity in an era of digital misinformation. Dr. Jagsi shares her insights on why the fight against cancer must be a global, unified effort and explores the critical importance of trust between patients and the scientific community.

Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.org

Facebook: /vcumasseycancercenter

Instagram: @vcumassey

VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is among an elite group of National Cancer Institute-designated institutions that lead and shape America’s cancer research efforts. As a Comprehensive Cancer Center, Massey is recognized for its scientific leadership and its ability to bridge groundbreaking research with life-saving patient care.

Working across all types of cancer, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education.

Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000+ researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective ways to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer.

For more information, visit masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY.