Someone Like Me – Your Cancer Community Podcast
Welcome to Someone Like Me – Your Cancer Community Podcast
I’m your host, Vanessa, a breast cancer survivor who created this space after going through it all myself.
Each week I chat with people affected by cancer and the family members who have been through it right alongside them.
These are real, raw, honest conversations about what cancer really feels like — the fear, the grief, the shock, the strength, and the unexpected moments that somehow get you through it.
I’m also launching Someone Like Me – Your Cancer Community mobile app. Keep an eye out, it’s coming soon.
This podcast is here for anyone who has ever thought
“No one gets what I’m going through.”
We do. And you’re not alone anymore.
Let’s make cancer a little less lonely together.
Main sponsor: Breast Cancer Ireland.
Someone Like Me – Your Cancer Community Podcast
E14: Only 13% of people survive Pancreatic Cancer. Pam is one of them.
In this powerful episode, I sit down with Pamela Deasy to talk about the fight of her life and how persistence and self-advocacy saved her. Pam trusted her instincts, pushed for answers, and got the treatment that made all the difference.
She shares the heartbreak of losing her mum to lung cancer, the pain of losing friends, and how her own diagnosis has opened doors to raise awareness. We discuss the signs and symptoms to watch for, her strength, and her choice to live every day like it matters, because none of us are guaranteed tomorrow.
Pam’s drive to shine a light on pancreatic cancer is as inspiring as it is unforgettable.
Keywords
pancreatic cancer, diagnosis, treatment, mental health, resilience, advocacy, awareness, symptoms, personal growth, hope
Takeaways
Pamela experienced extreme fatigue as her only symptom before diagnosis.
She faced disbelief and confusion upon receiving her cancer diagnosis.
Pancreatic cancer often presents with vague symptoms, making early detection difficult.
Mental health can be significantly impacted by a cancer diagnosis.
Pamela's treatment journey included chemotherapy and surgery, which were challenging.
She emphasizes the importance of resilience and maintaining a positive outlook.
Pamela co-founded a charity to raise awareness about pancreatic cancer in Ireland.
Her experience led her to undertake the Camino pilgrimage as a personal challenge.
She encourages others to trust their instincts and seek medical advice when something feels off.
Pamela advocates for better training for GPs to recognize pancreatic cancer symptoms early.
Titles
Facing the Unthinkable: A Journey Through Pancreatic Cancer
From Diagnosis to Advocacy: Pamela's Inspiring Story
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Early Symptoms
02:38 Diagnosis Journey and Initial Reactions
05:33 Understanding Pancreatic Cancer Symptoms
08:40 The Impact of Diagnosis on Mental Health
11:34 Treatment Journey and Challenges
14:33 Advocacy and Support for Pancreatic Cancer
17:38 Future Goals and Awareness
19:11 The Importance of Early Detection
20:51 Pamela's Inspiring Journey on the Camino
25:25 Resilience in the Face of Cancer
25:38 Advice for Newly Diagnosed Patients
30:36 The Impact of Cancer on Relationships
34:36 Living Life to the Fullest After Cancer
36:51 Embracing New Opportunities and Education
Learn more about pancreatic cancer here.
Follow Pam on Instagram: me_the_big_c_and_life_after