Episode 23: Rusty and Linda Konkol from Amherst Junction Artwork

Conversations with Kathy's House

Welcome to Conversations with Kathy’s House where we’ll explore how to support families who are experiencing personal illness or the serious illness of a loved one - one of life’s most stressful situations. Learn more at kathys-house.org.

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Conversations with Kathy's House

Episode 23: Rusty and Linda Konkol from Amherst Junction

March 12, 2025 • Gerry Steele is a Kathy’s House ally and healthcare communication professional. For more than a decade, she's had the privilege to share the experiences of individuals going through life-changing medical journeys and learn from their courage and wisdom.

Russel “Rusty” Konkol, is 70 years old, was born and raised in Amherst Junction, WI, population 377. He and his wife Linda, a retired nurse, raised 5 boys and a girl on the family homestead. Their sons all grew up to be pharmacists. Their daughter became a nurse.

Rusty was diagnosed with advanced melanoma in May 2024

The Froedtert & the Medical College of Wisconsin Cancer Network began offering a new treatment to patients with advanced melanoma just six months ago called TILS Therapy.

Rusty is the first person in Wisconsin to receive that treatment.

That’s what brought them to Kathy’s House. Rusty and Linda share a little about their family, hobbies, their journey to Milwaukee and, their stay at Kathy’s House and I hope you enjoy our conversation.

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