Someone Like Me – Your Cancer Community Podcast
Welcome to Someone Like Me – Your Cancer Community Podcast
I’m your host, Vanessa Mooney, a breast cancer survivor who created this space after going through it all myself.
Each week, I share real cancer stories — honest conversations with people affected by cancer and the family members who’ve walked beside them.
These are raw, emotional, and uplifting stories 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 App, a place for support, connection, and shared cancer stories for anyone affected by cancer.
Main Sponsor: Breast Cancer Ireland
This podcast is 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.
Someone Like Me – Your Cancer Community Podcast
Stage 4 breast cancer at just 21 - Ziva's Story
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In this episode, Vanessa speaks with Ziva Cussen, who was diagnosed with stage four breast cancer at just twenty one years of age. Ziva gives an honest and deeply moving insight into her life and the reality of what she continues to face every single day.
Ziva is currently undergoing treatment for cancer that has spread to her brain, and she continues to face everything with incredible honesty and strength. If you are listening to this episode, please keep Ziva in your thoughts and send her your warmth, healing, and positive energy as she continues her journey.
Takeaways
- Ziva discovered a lump in her breast and sought medical advice.
- Young patients often face delays in diagnosis due to assumptions about age.
- Trusting one's instincts is crucial in seeking medical attention.
- Receiving a cancer diagnosis can feel surreal and shocking.
- Treatment plans can be complex and require adjustments over time.
- Coping with side effects is a significant part of the cancer journey.
- Finding joy in small moments is essential for mental health.
- Community support plays a vital role in navigating cancer.
- Hope and positivity are crucial for resilience during treatment.
- Sharing experiences can help others feel less alone in their journeys.
Sound Bites
- "It just doesn't feel real, you know?"
- "You just have to have the hope there."
- "Hope is what keeps you going."
Chapters
00:00
Introduction to Ziva's Journey
02:38
The Discovery of Cancer
05:20
The Waiting Game: Delays in Diagnosis
08:18
The Shock of Diagnosis
11:13
Understanding Stage Four Cancer
14:06
Treatment Journey and Challenges
18:35
Facing the Reality of Cancer
20:51
Lessons Learned from Adversity
24:02
Advice for Others on a Similar Journey
29:13
The Importance of Hope and Resilience