Let's Talk About Your Breasts

Dorothy Gibbons, CEO & Cofounder

The Rose Breast Center of Excellence presents Let's Talk About Your Breasts with Dorothy Gibbons.


Each week, Dorothy hosts candid conversations with an array of people in the breast cancer community. From doctors and employees to donors and individuals who influence policy, you'll learn all there is to know about the disease which impacts so many women in our community.

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Episodes

Healing Hearts and Inspiring Women, A Survivor’s Story
Yesterday
Healing Hearts and Inspiring Women, A Survivor’s Story
What’s it like to be a real live Angel?  Marva Skinner shares what it takes and why Angels Surviving Cancer is so important to women. She lost both parents, battled and won her own breast cancer and now spends her time helping others. In this episode, you’ll learn how she found a renewed sense of purpose through her involvement with the organization and as a breast cancer survivor, how her experience guides her in navigating others through their breast cancer journey. You’ll hear why Angels Surviving Cancer is not just an organization; it's a lifeline, offering mentorship, financial assistance, scholarships, and organizing events to honor and support breast cancer patients and their families. It's a reminder that behind every breast cancer diagnosis is a person in need of support, understanding, and hope. Please consider sharing this episode with your family and friends at therose.org. Your action may save the life of an uninsured woman. Key Questions Answered 1.) How can one find purpose and hope while going through breast cancer? 2.) What ways does Angels Surviving Cancer provide support, mentorship, and education to breast cancer patients? 3.) Why are more people needed to get involved and support the mission of Angels Surviving Cancer? Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 01:01 Finding Purpose and Hope 02:13 Personal Experience with Breast Cancer 03:35 Support and Assistance for Breast Cancer Patients 06:04 Personal Support for Vanessa 08:24 Providing Skills and Education 09:23 Prayer Breakfast and Scholarships 11:22 Expanding Reach and Support 12:50 Closing RemarksSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
She Survived Breast Cancer AND Domestic Violence
3d ago
She Survived Breast Cancer AND Domestic Violence
Do angels really exist?  According to Vanessa Jackson, indeed they do and hers helped her survive breast cancer and domestic violence. From the safety of a shelter, and uninsured, she faced a diagnosis and treatment, but despite the worst of circumstances, Vanessa Jackson’s spirit remained unbroken. And today, we hear her story. Vanessa shares the hurdles she encountered and the support she received from The Rose and Angels Surviving Cancer. Throughout her experience, Vanessa was guided by her assigned angel, Marva, who provided emotional support and guidance, helping her to rebuild relationships and learn to advocate for herself. And her story drives home the importance of support systems and the role they play in a breast cancer patient's life. Please consider sharing this episode with your family and friends at therose.org. Your action may save the life of an uninsured woman. Key Questions Answered 1.) Why is having a support system, such as organizations like Angel Surviving Cancer, significant in a person's journey? 2.) How are rebuilding relationships and learning to advocate for oneself important aspects of healing and recovery? Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 03:25 Diagnosis and Initial Treatment 09:25 Support from Angel Surviving Cancer 13:44 The Role of Marva, the Assigned Angel 18:55 Learning to Navigate Life and Rebuilding Relationships 21:23 Recovery and Setting Goals 26:34 Recurrence and Second Treatment 30:20 Overcoming Challenges and Finding Strength 31:48 Conclusion and Hope for the FutureSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How She Became Her Own Best Advocate
Apr 9 2024
How She Became Her Own Best Advocate
In this inspiring episode, Chantel Williams takes us on a remarkable journey, sharing her background as a military brat and her transition from logistics to finance. She candidly discusses how she and her husband took the leap and purchased the AFP Group, embarking on a new chapter as financial advisors. Chantel's involvement with the Junior League of Houston is a testament to her commitment to community service. As the outside board representative for The Rose, she offers a unique perspective, highlighting the invaluable opportunity for Junior League members to serve on nonprofit boards and make a tangible impact. With raw honesty, Chantel opens up about her personal experience with breast cancer, underscoring the paramount importance of advocating for oneself in the healthcare system. Her story serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience and strength that lies within each of us. Throughout the conversation, Chantel's passion for the Junior League shines through as she shares the invaluable knowledge and growth she has gained from her involvement with this esteemed organization and her role with The Rose. Join us as we celebrate Chantel's remarkable journey and her unwavering commitment to empowering others through advocacy, education, and community service. Share Chantel's inspiring story with your family and friends, and support the life-changing work of The Rose by donating at therose.org. Key Questions Answered  1.) In what ways does moving around as a military brat and experiencing different cultures shape her perspective and adaptability? 2.) How does being involved in organizations like the Junior League provide leadership skills and opportunities to make a positive impact in the community? 3.) Why is it important to advocate for oneself in healthcare is crucial, especially when it comes to early detection and prevention of diseases like breast cancer. 4.) How did Chantel’ role in the Junior League inspire her work with The Rose Chapters 00:00 Background and Moving Around 02:04 Career Path and Starting AFP Group 07:30 Joining the Junior League of Houston 09:21 Being the Outside Board Representative for The Rose 13:36 Personal Experience with Breast Cancer 24:17 Impact of Junior League Membership 26:48 Learning from The Rose 31:36 Importance of Junior League and The RoseSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Pregnancy and Motherhood - A New Risk in Developing Breast Cancer
Apr 3 2024
Pregnancy and Motherhood - A New Risk in Developing Breast Cancer
In this eye-opening episode, CEO and co-founder of The Rose, Dorothy Gibbons, sheds light on the alarming rise of breast cancer diagnoses among young women, particularly those who were pregnant or had given birth within the past five years. She shares real life stories of The Rose’s patients and the consequences young women face.    Being pregnant or a new mother has enough challenges but that’s when it is more important than ever for women to remain vigilant and never ignore any new or persistent lumps. By shedding light on this often-overlooked issue, we can empower women to take charge of their health and seek the care they deserve. Share this episode with your family and friends and support the life-changing work of The Rose Breast Center of Excellence by donating at therose.org. Key Questions Answered  1.)  Is postpartum breast cancer a real danger for young women? 2.) Is a woman’s postpartum status a prognostic indicator for breast cancer? 3.) Can a woman be too young to have breast cancer? Chapters 00:00 Increasing Number of Young Women Diagnosed with Breast Cancer 00:29 Risk of Metastatic Breast Cancer in Postpartum Women 00:58 Prognostic Indicator in Young Women with Breast Cancer 03:00 Real-Life Experiences of Young Women with Breast Cancer 03:40 Financial Barriers to Breast Cancer Diagnosis 05:14 Age and Access to Mammography 06:09 Raising Awareness about Breast Cancer Risk After ChildbirthSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
An Afternoon That Changed Everything
Apr 2 2024
An Afternoon That Changed Everything
An afternoon of yard work changed her life. Uninsured and discovering she had breast cancer, 37-year-old Ana Henriquez talks about her challenges and what it took to survive. With raw honesty, she dives into the emotional toll of losing her hair, saying goodbye to her breasts, and the unwavering love and encouragement she received from her husband and family. Ana emphasizes the critical importance of self-examination and urges all women to listen to their bodies, heeding the subtle signs that could potentially save lives and how The Rose’s help allowed her to concentrate on getting well. Share Ana's story with your family and friends and help support the life-changing work of The Rose by donating at therose.org. Key Questions Answered  1.) How does being uninsured add additional challenges to a breast cancer diagnosis? 2.) Why is open communication with loved ones important during treatment? Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Diagnosis 03:19 Dealing with Uninsured Status 05:45 Finding Support at The Rose 06:14 Patient Navigation Program 07:43 Support from Family 08:41 Losing Hair and Self-Image 10:11 Support from Spouse 11:39 Talking to Children about Diagnosis 13:12 Maintaining Normalcy and Working 14:11 Hispanic Community and Cancer 20:51 Saying Goodbye to Breasts 22:00 Support from Spouse 23:00 Treatment as a Younger Patient 24:30 Importance of Self-Examination 25:29 Shift in Priorities 27:22 Support from Clients 28:21 Ongoing Surveillance and Staying Positive 29:12 Closing RemarkSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Breast Cancer, Through the Eyes of a Son
Mar 26 2024
Breast Cancer, Through the Eyes of a Son
What happens when your best friend has breast cancer, and that best friend happens to be your mother? Today, you’ll hear the story of Matt Wallace. Matt’s a writer and healthcare IT professional. He’s also the son of The Rose’s COO Jessica Duckworth, who was featured in episode twelve of season one. He opens up about the balance of supporting his mother through her treatment while managing his own emotional journey. He sheds light on the significance of being present for loved ones, not just in health, but through the trials of illness. And his story serves as another reminder that breast cancer affects the family, too. But it’s the gift he gave his mom that might move you to tears.  Please consider sharing this episode with your family and friends at therose.org. Your action may save the life of an uninsured woman.  Key Questions Asked 1.) How can you supporting a loved one with breast cancer? 2.) How do caregivers often carry their own emotional burdens during the fight against breast cancer? 3.) What ways does breast cancer affect the entire family and extended circles of people? 4.) How does the experience of breast cancer lead to changed perspectives and priorities?   Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 01:26 Writing Horror and Children's Books 02:23 Matt's Role in Healthcare IT 03:23 Matt's Close Bond with His Mother 04:23 The Day of the Breast Cancer Diagnosis 06:35 Supporting His Mother During the Diagnosis 07:34 Telling Matt's Sister About the Diagnosis 08:02 Dealing with Breast Cancer During COVID-19 08:21 Processing the Diagnosis and Treatment Plan 09:49 Matt's Role as a Son and Caregiver 10:08 Supporting His Mother Through Writing 11:28 The Strength of Matt's Father 12:29 Mediating Family Support 13:39 Matt's Mother's Changed Perspective 14:09 Supportive Words and Actions 15:35 The Impact on Caregivers 16:04 Overwhelming Support from Family 17:47 The Impact on Extended Circles of People 18:18 The Isolating Nature of Cancer 19:14 Worries About the Future and Family History 19:42 Uncertainty and Milestones in Treatment 21:55 Witnessing the Struggles of Treatment 23:21 Recovery and Post-Treatment Challenges 24:54 Changed Perspectives and Priorities 26:49 Navigating Life Changes During Treatment 27:47 Concerns for the Future Generations 29:09 Advice for Others Going Through a Similar Experience 30:18 Closing RemarksSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Cancer Loves Sugar, a Conversation with Dr. Melillo
Mar 14 2024
Cancer Loves Sugar, a Conversation with Dr. Melillo
This Women's History Month, The Rose celebrates trailblazers within the breast cancer community. What can we do to feed ourselves better food so we can live our best lives? Dr. Dixie Melillo joins Dorothy to answer that question, and others. And these are hard truths we all need to hear. She and Dorothy talk about nutrition as it pertains to not only cancer, but to overall health. The conversation also shines a spotlight on the healthcare system’s biggest issues, the role of processed foods, and the benefits of intermittent fasting. Dr. Melillo encourages individuals to take responsibility for their health and make informed choices about their diet and lifestyle. So please, consult your physician before making any changes to your diet and exercise routine. DISCLAIMER: The views expressed by our guests don’t reflect that of The Rose nor are they a substitute for medical advice provided by the listener’s doctor. Notable quotes include: “I have cancer cells. You have cancer cells.” “Sugar paralyzes the immune system.” Key Questions Answered 1.) How do processed foods and sugar contribute to chronic diseases like cancer? 2.) What are the benefits of intermittent fasting and time-restricted eating? 3.) Why is choosing whole, unprocessed foods essential for maintaining good health? 4.) How do exercise, sleep, and spirituality play important roles in overall well-being? Chapters 00:00 Introduction and the magnitude of the healthcare problem 03:08 The impact of processed foods and sugar on health 07:51 The relationship between sugar, insulin, and cancer 10:11 The potential for reversing diabetes and cancer through diet 13:17 Intermittent fasting and time-restricted eating 15:32 Choosing whole foods and avoiding processed foods 18:00 The lack of nutrition education in medical schools 21:48 Taking responsibility for one's health and well-being 22:32 The importance of exercise and sleep 24:24 The role of spirituality in maintaining health 25:45 The impact of food on mental health 26:34 The dangers of excessive screen time 28:42 Recap of key steps for improving health 30:36 Conclusion and encouragement  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How One Woman’s Breast Cancer Battle Led to the Self-Care Movement
Mar 12 2024
How One Woman’s Breast Cancer Battle Led to the Self-Care Movement
To say Dr. Sean Fitzpatrick helped The Rose navigate the pandemic would be an understatement. As the Executive Director of The Jung Center, he’s not only given our community hope in the darkest of times, but he’s also done so for countless others in the Houston area. During this conversation, Dorothy and Dr. Fitzpatrick talk about the past four years and how they’ve impacted the breast cancer community. He’ll talk about the need for caregivers to embrace self-care and encourages breast cancer patients to engage in self-acceptance. But back to self-care. We get a brief history lesson when Dr. Fitzpatrick discusses Audre Lorde, poet, author and professor. He describes how she was a black woman, single mother, uninsured, trying to make the difficult decision of whether she was going to continue serving her values, specifically serving the needs of black women, or if she was going to take a step back to seek breast cancer treatment and share her experience with others. Learn more about Sean’s work and The Jung Center at www.junghouston.org. Help us share the mission of The Rose by subscribing to Let’s Talk About Your Breasts on your favorite podcast platform, and by sharing with your family and friends.  Please consider supporting us at therose.org. Your donation could help save the life of an uninsured woman.    Key Questions Answered 1.) Why is must we nurture our well-being, especially in the face of adversity? as the isolation brought on by the pandemic. 2.) How is breast cancer tied to the origin of self-care? 3.) What can we do to foster better support networks in our community? 4.) What are Dr. Fitzpatrick’s tips for managing self-care?   Chapters 00:00 Self-care in pandemic: simplified approach for all. 03:51 Infants have instinct to notice surroundings instinctively. 07:47 Paying attention to body signals for calm. 12:55 Well being defined as happiness and contentment. 15:04 Well-being through relationships, including self and community. 18:38 Commute time transformed during pandemic, newfound appreciation. 23:46 Audrey Lord, influential writer, faced cancer decision. 24:48 Self-care as political act for black woman. 28:11 Recognize interdependence, create spaces for connection.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A Thank You to the People Who Made Our New Studio Possible
Mar 7 2024
A Thank You to the People Who Made Our New Studio Possible
Gone are the days of putting ourselves last. As the battle against breast cancer continues, we, women, must prioritize our health. After all, if we don’t have health, we literally can’t care for the most important people in our lives. Making self-care essential starts today. And it must continue tomorrow, and all the days that follow. The purpose of this podcast shines a light on the importance of self-care and wellbeing and how the two go hand in hand. You’ll hear from a variety of guests with different outlooks. All of which, you’ll hear as we tape episodes from our new podcast studio. The Rose’s new studio is made possible by The Bill and Helen Crowder Foundation. Through their generosity, we will be able to grow our podcast audience. Which will help us provide more mammograms. And we provide more mammograms, we save more lives.  A heartfelt thank you also goes out to The Rose’s marketing team for making every dollar count, and for working tirelessly on nights and weekends to build this world class studio. And to the gentlemen we call “The Rose Misters,” for painting walls and providing moral support along the way. Lastly, we thank you, the listener, for spending time with us every week. We appreciate your support as we continue our mission to support the uninsured across Southeast Texas.   Key Questions Answered 1.) Why is self-care is essential? 2.) How can wellbeing can be achieved in difficult situations? 3.) How our podcast will share different perspectives on well-being? 4.) Why self-care should be a top priority in the lives of women?   Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Studio Transformation 02:18 Focus on Well-being 03:17 Finding a Path to Well-being 04:18 Gratitude and Appreciation 04:47 Closing and Call to ActionSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
She Beat Breast Cancer, Now She’s Paying it Forward to The Rose
Mar 5 2024
She Beat Breast Cancer, Now She’s Paying it Forward to The Rose
This Women's History Month, The Rose celebrates trailblazers within the breast cancer community. The Rose’s annual Everything’s Coming Up Roses Luncheon happens on March 27th. This year’s honoree is Nancy Craig.  Nancy joins Dorothy to discuss her role and share why it’s important to her to spread The Rose’s mission. She shares her personal experience with breast cancer, including early detection and treatment.  We couldn’t have found a better advocate than Nancy, and you’ll hear why. The conversation dives into community trust, reaching young women, and breaking the language barrier, as well as the need for unrestricted funds. Mark your calendar for March 27th because you’re sure to have a great time for an even greater cause, supporting the women of The Rose. Key Questions Answered 1.) Why early detection and treatment are crucial in breast cancer? 2.) How does The Rose plays a vital role in providing breast cancer services in rural communities? 3.) What makes unrestricted funds critical to serving more women? 4.) What efforts should be made to reach younger women for breast cancer education and screening? Chapters 00:00 Being Honored at the Luncheon 02:28 Nancy's Breast Cancer Experience 08:38 The Importance of The Rose in Rural Communities 10:27 The Role of Trust in Breast Cancer Care 11:25 The Community's Support for The Rose 13:09 The Need for Unrestricted Funds 14:03 Reaching Younger Women 17:50 Personal Goals for the Luncheon 19:46 The Impact of Breast Cancer on Men 22:36 The Uncertainty of Cancer 23:05 Rituals and Attitudes for Survivors 24:04 The Importance of Regular Testing 25:27 The Role of Community and Support 26:54 Seeking Second Opinions and Trusting Doctors 28:20 The Importance of Reliable Information 29:19 Addressing Language Barriers 30:41 Upcoming Luncheon and SpeakerSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Self-Care vs Well-Being, a Conversation with Chief Possibility Officer Peter Remington
Feb 27 2024
Self-Care vs Well-Being, a Conversation with Chief Possibility Officer Peter Remington
Peter Remington is a business coach with a passion for paying it forward. But it was a friend with breast cancer who gave him the title “Chief Possibility Officer.” Years later, he still holds the title.  During this conversation, you’ll hear why “Chief Possibility Officer” is a perfect fit for Peter. He and Dorothy talk about percolating vs circulating through life, the importance of intuition, and how to overcome limiting beliefs. Peter also shares how he supported his sister through her breast cancer journey, and imparts so much wisdom, we invited him back for a second show in the future! Learn more about Peter and his work at peterremington.com. Help us share the mission of The Rose by subscribing to Let’s Talk About Your Breasts on your favorite podcast platform, and by sharing with your family and friends.  Please consider supporting us at therose.org. Your donation could help save the life of an uninsured woman.  Key Questions Answered 1.) Why should we pay attention to our intuition? 2.) What’s the importance of taking time for silence and reflection to receive guidance? 3.) How can we overcome limiting beliefs and rewrite our own script? 4.) How can we take action and have purpose in life? Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 01:11 Percolating vs Circulating Through Life 02:10 Listening to Intuition and Paying Attention to Messages 03:09 Taking Time for Silence and Reflection 04:35 Becoming an Erasaholic and Rewriting Your Script 06:30 Self-Care vs Well-Being 07:54 Overcoming Limiting Beliefs and Feeling Good About Yourself 08:51 The Process of Becoming a Chief Possibility Officer 13:07 Preparing for More and Achieving Your Highest Potential 19:22 The Importance of Intention and Gratitude 22:25 The Power of Words and the Role of Faith 25:19 Supporting Loved Ones with Breast Cancer 28:42 The Non-Profit Cheers for Charities 30:29 The Importance of Action and Purpose 31:58 Closing Remarks and AppreciationSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How this Couple Uses Taekwondo to Knock Out Breast Cancer
Feb 13 2024
How this Couple Uses Taekwondo to Knock Out Breast Cancer
Alicia Um says to step out on faith. The 2008 recession left her family broke and a breast cancer diagnosis made matters worse. With nowhere to turn, her husband moved out of state to find work while she underwent treatment, all while raising kids. During this conversation, you’ll hear from both Alicia and her husband, Aaron. They discuss their faith, the importance of staying positive, and how their taekwondo gym is inspiring young children to pay it forward to The Rose. Help us share the mission of The Rose by subscribing to Let’s Talk About Your Breasts on your favorite podcast platform, and by sharing with your family and friends.  Please consider supporting us at therose.org. Your donation could help save the life of an uninsured woman. Key Questions Answered 1.) Why are faith and perseverance crucial in overcoming challenges? 2.) How can support from organizations like The Rose make a significant difference in a person's cancer journey? 3.) Why are giving back and helping others bringing purpose and fulfillment? 4.) How can listening to your intuition and making difficult decisions lead to positive outcomes? Chapters 00:00 Life before 2008 01:25 Moving to Houston 03:11 Diagnosis and loss 04:30 Finding The Rose 06:49 Navigating the journey 08:42 Rebuilding and giving back 09:09 Support during treatment 10:26 Challenges of treatment 11:47 Finding strength and purpose 13:30 Giving back to The Rose 17:48 Surviving and moving forward 19:16 The power of faith 20:15 Helping other women 21:12 Board breaking event 23:31 Encouragement for women 28:52 Husband's perspectiveSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.