I’ve been talking about my cancer experiences for a long time now. Recently, I had the opportunity to appear on a podcast created by epidemiologist Randi Paynter, which focuses on the structural issues faced by cancer patients, access to treatment and supports among them. Please follow Changed by Cancer — all of the prior episodes are enlightening, gripping, and moving.

Here is Part 1 of my interview:

I’m blinking a lot due to new contacts. You already know what I look like, so feel free to just listen!

As with any media appearance, there are always things I would change. First and foremost, NO, GAMMA KNIFE ISN’T LASER SURGERY. I KNOW THIS AND I SAID IT ANYWAY.

Second, I could have mentioned the names of the healthcare providers who have had a hand in saving my life. I’ll do so here. Roll credits.

Dr. Richard Shapiro, surgical oncology

Dr. Nicholas Sanfilippo, radiation oncology

Dr. Anna Pavlick, medical oncology

Dr. Douglas Kondziolka, neurosurgeon

Nurse Practitioner Rajni Kannan

Nurse Practitioner Kathy Madden

Bakary Darboe, phlebotomist (RIP)

Dr. Evan Lipson, medical oncology

Dr. Brandi Page, radiation oncology

Nurse Practitioner Megan Schollenberger