Gary Fong, a retired automotive executive, passionate and dedicated advocate who has been living with pancreatic cancer for over eight years. Diagnosed in 2016, Gary shares his journey through surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, as well as the critical role of community support in helping him stay positive and motivated.

Through resilience, advocacy, and the support of loved ones, Gary continues to live an active life while championing hope, awareness, and research. His story is a powerful reminder that no one fights alone.

In this episode of Living Hope, we explore the critical topic of emergency preparedness for pancreatic cancer patients, with a special focus on natural disasters like wildfires. Guest, Alejandra Alvarez, Associate Director, Patient Services, Research and Education with the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, shares practical tips on creating a grab-and-go kit, including essentials like medications, important documents, and personal items. We also delve into the emotional challenges patients and caregivers face during emergencies, emphasizing the need for mental health support.

Tune in for a conversation filled with practical insights, hope, and inspiration.

"As long as you speak my name, I shall live forever," is dedicated to Marianna DeBonis

#PancreaticCancer #EmergencyPreparedness #StayPrepared #GrabAndGoKit #DisasterPreparedness

Wildfires in LA County are taking a heavy toll, with historic blazes impacting areas like Pacific Palisades and Eaton. Emergency preparedness is critical—especially for cancer patients who need grab-and-go kits (meds, records, contacts) and N95 masks to combat poor air quality.

Meanwhile, promising pancreatic cancer research is creating hope for early detection and improved treatments, even as funding and end-of-life discussions remain key issues.

Thoughts and prayers to all affected.

#Wildfires #EmergencyPrep #CancerResearch #PancreaticCancer

January is Clinical Awareness Month on Living Hope, survivor *Robert Panacci joined us to discuss clinical trials, cancer research funding, and the power of advocacy. Together, we tackled misconceptions, government accountability, and the urgent need for early detection in pancreatic cancer.

"As long as you speak my name I shall live forever," is dedicated to Jack Santeramo

*Rob is a recurring guest. Catch up on his inspiring journey in previous episodes, where he shares his story of resilience and hope. Watch on OC Talk Radio’s YouTube or listen on most podcast platforms.

Teona Ducre is a pancreatic cancer survivor who uses her personal journey to raise awareness about the disease, particularly within the Black community. Diagnosed in 2016, she empowers individuals to advocate for themselves and emphasizes the importance of early detection. As a member of PanCAN’s Survivor Council Alumni, she promotes genetic and biomarker testing to improve treatment outcomes and assess familial risk, appearing in public service campaigns to amplify her mission.

In celebration of National Survivor Month this episode is dedicated to Survivor Kay Kays who was diagnosed in 1994

Nourishing Wellness: Eating Healthy on the Cancer Journey with Nutritional Therapy and Breathwork Facilitator Andrea O'Donnell

Dr. Diane Simeone, a leader in the field of pancreatic cancer research currently serves as the Director of the Moores Cancer Center at UC San Diego Health. Dr. Simeone founded (PRECEDE) the Pancreatic Cancer Early Detection Consortium. Dr Simeone shares her insights into the challenges and advancements in combating one of the toughest forms of cancer.

#PRECEDEConsortium #CancerBreakthroughs #DrDianeSimeone

#PancreaticCancer #CancerResearch #EarlyDetection #MooresCancerCenter

During the month of June, OC Talk Radio's program "Living Hope: Your Journey with Pancreatic Cancer" acknowledges the hardships that survivors endure and celebrates their strength and resilience. Meet our featured survivor Charles Czajkowski, a remarkable six-year pancreatic cancer survivor who lost his mother to the same disease 25 years ago. Diagnosed early, Charles underwent a robotic Whipple surgery and extensive chemotherapy. Charles lives by the mantra "Carpe Diem." Join us to hear his inspiring story of resilience, advocacy, and a zest for life.