Watch Past Event Recordings
2024 Create Your Best Life Events
- Nutrition Tools to Thrive – Gina Woodruff, RD, LMNT, CSO
Description: A “healthy diet” seems difficult to define! Why are tasty, nutrient-dense recipes so hard to come by? How do we know if we can trust a source of nutrition information? What dietary supplements are helpful and which ones could actually harm us? Join us as Gina Woodruff, RD, LMNT, CSO, a Board Certified Oncology Dietician with Methodist Estabrook Cancer Center answers those questions and more! Watch Gina give a demo of a delicious recipe, get a list of credible sources for nutrition information and discuss the latest research on the role of supplements in our diets! [January 27, 2024, 10:00 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.]- view recording here!
- It’s Okay to Not Be Okay – Brooke Webster, LMHP, CMSW
Description: What is “toxic positivity”, and how do you deal with it as a cancer survivor? You may feel the pressure to stay positive and hold onto hope, but sometimes you just need to express how you really feel. Mental health plays an ongoing role in your physical well-being. Join us to learn how to balance your emotional needs, understand how you feel and communicate that with others! Brooke Webster LMHP, CMSW answers your questions and shares ways to respond to toxic positivity and how to healthily express your true feelings. [February 24, 2024, 10:00 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.] – view recording here! - The World of Breast Reconstruction: Helping You Understand Your Options – Kathryn N. Honz, MD
Description: Women who have been diagnosed with breast cancer can choose to undergo a lumpectomy or mastectomy to treat their cancer. There are reconstruction options available to patients for either surgery. This presentation will shed some light on the world of breast reconstruction. It will review the options available, as well as how the surgeries are done, what risks of surgery are, and what the recovery entails. This can prepare patients, as well as their family and friends, with what to expect going into their cancer treatment. [April 13, 2024, 10:00 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.] The following content may include graphic depictions of surgical procedures, medical conditions, or anatomical features. These images are intended for educational and informational purposes only. Viewer discretion is advised – view recording here!
2023 Create Your Best Life Events
- Coping with Survivor Guilt – Kimarie Knowles, LCSW
Description: What is survivor guilt and what does it look like? How is it different from other cancer side effects? Many cancer survivors and caregivers experience guilt. It can come in a variety of forms and at any time. These feelings should be acknowledged and normalized. Join us for an open dialogue about survivor guilt, where it comes from, and how to cope with it. [January 7, 2023, 10:00 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.] – view recording here. - Lymphedema 101 – Becca Evans, MOT, OTR/L, CLT
Description: Did you know lymphedema can become a problem after surgery or radiation treatment for nearly any type of cancer? People who have many lymph nodes removed and/or radiation therapy have a higher risk of long-term lymphedema, but at this time there’s no way to predict who will develop it. During this session, you will learn: what is lymphedema? What are the signs and symptoms of lymphedema and how is it treated? And what can be done to help prevent it? [February 18, 2023, 10:00 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.] – view recording here. - A Time to Grieve – Amy Lipins, LCSW
Description: Have you lost someone to cancer? Do you know someone who’s cancer has progressed and you’ve had feelings of anticipatory grief? Have you wondered how long your grief is going to last? Grief is a topic often avoided in cancer support communities. But the reality is, cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers often experience a great deal of grief. Join us to talk about the hard topics. We’re here for you, for a time to grieve and a time to heal. We’re in this together. [March 11, 2023, 10:00 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.] – view recording here. - Intimacy After a Cancer Diagnosis – Brier Jirka, LIMHP and Certified Sex Therapist
Description: What happens to your intimacy after a cancer diagnosis? Who can help support you on this journey of adjustment and change? Do you want resources and an open dialogue with tangible tools and techniques? If you’ve answered yes, then this is the conversation for you. Come learn about libido, pain, and other difficulties that arise after cancer treatments. You will also learn new ways to connect to your partner through touch and restructuring expectations. [April 29, 2023, 10:00 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.] - Survivor Panel: How to Create Your Best Life After Cancer – George Hefley, Maralin and Joe Fritz, Shannon Valasek
Description: Did you know? June is National Cancer Survivors Month. To celebrate, A Time to Heal hosted a free panel discussion webinar with cancer survivors and caregivers. Join us to hear how each of our panelists have been able to create their best life after cancer, including using the FREE research and evidence-based programs offered by A Time to Heal. Please share this recording with others in your network, so they can learn more about healing emotionally as well as physically from the only people who can truly understand your journey – other survivors and caregivers. [June 24, 2023, 10:00 – 11:15 a.m.] – view recording here. - Improving Your Sleep – Tracy Dunn
Description: Tracy Dunn from Nebraska Medicine’s Sleep Center joins us for a presentation and discussion on improving your sleep. She presents on the following topics: What happens when we sleep, snoring and obstructive sleep apnea, sleep disturbances, secrets to good sleep, drowsy driving, what is a sleep study and what happens during a study, and treatment options and positive effects of therapy. [July 22, 2023, 10:00 – 11:15 a.m.] - Meditation and Mindfulness – Dr. Tracy Bender, OTD, OTR/L, CLT, CMF
Description: What if we told you there was a pill that could calm your mind, enhance your overall well-being, and increase your brain’s memory, learning, and decision-making while reducing your stress levels? Well, we have something better than a pill – meditation! A 2006 study on meditation found that while most people’s gray matter in their frontal cortexes (the area of decision-making and working memory) shrink as they age, the 50-year-old study participants who meditated regularly had the same amount of gray matter as people half their age! Join Dr. Tracy Bender, an Occupational Therapist who specializes in cancer rehab, lymphedema, women’s health, and health coaching. She will show you how to allow your mind to develop new habits of positive thinking and energy shifts in order to achieve complete healing and a more youthful brain! [August 26, 2023, 10:00 – 11:15 a.m.] – view recording here. - Elevate Your Life Above + Beyond Cancer – Dr. Richard Deming
Description: How important is health and wellness in cancer survivorship? What steps can you take today to elevate your life above and beyond cancer? Join us for an uplifting morning of survivor stories, Q&A, and discussion with nationally renowned Oncologist Dr. Richard Deming. [September 30, 2023, 10:00 – 11:15 a.m.] – view recording here. - Project Pink’d: Empowering Breast Cancer Survivors – Shawn McCarville
Description: “I DON’T have breast cancer, but I want to help those that do!” … “I KNOW someone with breast cancer, but I don’t know how to help them!” … “I HAVE breast cancer, but I don’t know where to go for support!” – If this describes you, look no further than this Create Your Best Life Event! A Time to Heal supports survivors of all kinds of cancer and their caregivers—and we are highlighting our friends at Project Pink’d, a nonprofit that specializes in all things breast cancer, all the time. Join A Time to Heal and Shawn McCarville of Project Pink’d for an informative session discussing programming, resources and virtual opportunities for you to get involved in spreading breast cancer awareness from wherever you are! [October 28, 2023, 10:00 – 11:15 a.m.] – view recording here. - Staying STRONG After Cancer – Amy Roux
Description: Have cancer treatments left you feeling physically weak? Are you ready to take the next step in your cancer recovery? Did you know that the YMCA has a FREE 12-week exercise program just for cancer survivors? The LIVESTRONG at the YMCA is proven to help improve your strength, flexibility and balance. Come learn more from Amy Roux, LIVESTRONG Project Manager at the YMCA. [December 2, 2023, 10:00 – 11:15 a.m.] – view recording here.
2022 Create Your Best Life Events
- Mirror, Mirror: Improving Your Reflection – Lori Fuchs, Lisa McDermott, and Emily Bolmeier, Clinical Cosmetologists and Certified Mastectomy Fitters from Inner Beauty Salon at Methodist Estabrook Cancer Center.
Description: Have you looked in the mirror and not recognized the person that you see? Have you lost your hair? Do you have scars or radiation marks? Some changes from cancer treatment may be temporary, while others may be permanent. Listen as we meet with a team of cosmetologists and board certified mastectomy fitters to discuss makeup and skin care, post-mastectomy or lumpectomy garment and prosthesis fittings, scarf and hat styling demonstrations, and wig options. Come listen for your first step in reclaiming your confidence, comfort, and sense of self. [January 29, 2022, 10:00 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.] – view recording here. - The Elephant in the Room: Talking to Kids About Your Cancer Diagnosis – Pam Ganz, MS.
Description: Hearing the words “You have cancer” is frightening. And now you’re tasked with a difficult conversation talking to your children or other young ones in your life. Cancer is a family experience. But how do you navigate conversations about your cancer diagnosis with children and teens? If you are a parent or grandparent who has children in your lives between the ages of 5 and 18, listen to a discussion about navigating these difficult conversations. Often children have many questions and experience a wide variety of emotions. Listen here to learn tips and strategies for talking with kids of all ages about cancer. [February 26, 2022, 10:00 a.m. to 11:15 p.m.] – view recording here. - I Can’t Afford to Have Cancer – Jim Murphy and Shasta Wragge.
Description: Cancer is expensive. And nearly all cancer survivors experience financial stress due to the cost of cancer treatment and related expenses. Have your out-of-pocket treatment costs shattered your credit? Are you struggling with medical bills and need to explore alternative lines of credit? This session will explore financial topics that are important to cancer survivors and their caregivers. View this for financial guidance as we meet with banking experts for a highly informative and open discussion. [March 26, 2022, 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.] – view recording here. - The Genetics of Cancer – Dr. Mary Wells and Michaela Sherbeck, APRN-CNS, AOCNS, AGCNS-BC.
Description: Genetic counseling can be an important part of your cancer journey, whether just diagnosed or five years post-treatment. Genetic testing can help you make informed decisions about your care and can be used to identify any inherited cancer risks in your family. Should you have genetic testing? What are the pros and cons of being tested? Does insurance cover genetic testing? Come listen as we meet with genetic experts to answer these questions and more. [May 7, 2022, 10:00 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.] – view recording here. - Healthy Nutrition for Cancer Survivors – Jeannie Hannan, PhD, DipACLM, NBC-HWC.
Description: Nutrition is an important part of your care no matter where you are in your cancer journey. What does the research say about nutrition for cancer survivors? What is a plant-based diet and what are the benefits of one? Healthy eating doesn’t have to be overwhelming! You can start today by taking little steps. Come learn practical ways to transition to more plant-based meals, along with other tips for healthy eating! [June 25, 2022, 10:00 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.] – view recording here. - Transforming Your Diet with Plant-Based Recipes – Jeannie Hannan, PhD, DipACLM, NBC-HWC.
Description: Now that you’ve learned the importance of healthy nutrition as a cancer survivor, join us for part two of our healthy nutrition series! We welcomed back Jeannie Hannan to talk about all things RECIPES! Join us for this open discussion where Jeannie shared some of her tried and true recipes. [July 16, 2022, 10:00 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.] – view recording here. - Palliative Care: A Discussion for Survivors and Caregivers – Marcia Cederdahl, RN, BS, CHPN.
Description: What is palliative care, and how do I know if it’s right for me? Who pays for palliative care? How is palliative care different from hospice? Palliative care not only manages the physical symptoms of cancer, but it also addresses the complete needs of cancer patients and their family members. Join us for this open discussion on the importance of palliative care and how it can be used during any part of your cancer journey, from diagnosis to treatment and beyond. [August 13, 2022, 10:00 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.] – view recording here. - Young & Diagnosed (Part 1) – Becky Gehringer, Emalee Barto, and Taylor Cochrane from love | blackbird.
Description: Calling all young adults! You won’t want to miss this couch conversation on all things REAL regarding cancer. Come meet Taylor, Emalee, and Becky, all thrivers of aggressive cancers who were diagnosed young when life was really getting good! They each had amazing support systems but still felt lost and lonely, knowing others didn’t understand the pain, fear, and anxiety that they were going through. Until they met each other! They answered your questions that may seem too embarrassing to ask your cancer team. Nothing was off limits! They talk about it all and hope to make you smile and laugh along the way! [September 24, 2022, 10:00 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.] – view recording here. - Young & Diagnosed (Part 2) – Becky Gehringer, Emalee Barto, and Taylor Cochrane from love | blackbird.
Description: Calling all young adults (again)! Join us for Part 2 of our Young & Diagnosed series with Taylor, Emalee, and Becky, all thrivers of aggressive cancers who were diagnosed young when life was really getting good! In Part 1, we met the crew, heard their stories, and talked about fertility, parenting, and family dynamics. Join us for the second installment of our Young & Diagnosed series as we keep the conversation going by talking about nutrition, exercise, and returning to work. [October 22, 2022, 10:00 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.] – view recording here. - Fitting Pretty – Lisa McDermott and Sharon O’Donnell, Clinical Cosmetologists and Certified Mastectomy Fitters from Inner Beauty Salon at Methodist Estabrook Cancer Center.
Description: Have you looked in the mirror and not recognized the person that you see? Cancer treatment can cause a variety of appearance-related side effects. Join us as we welcome back the team of clinical cosmetologists and certified mastectomy fitters from Inner Beauty Salon! We’ll discuss how to choose and wear a wig and provide scarf and hat styling demonstrations. We’ll also cover post-mastectomy or lumpectomy garment and prosthesis fittings. [November 12, 2022, 10:00 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.] – view recording here. - Self-Care During the Holidays – Mary Robinson, author of Seed, Stem, Bloom: Lessons From My Faith-led Journey Through CANcer.
Description: The holidays are an exciting time, but they can also be one of the most stressful times of the year. Between cooking, party planning, and dealing with family drama, it can be easy to lose your holiday cheer. Join author and cancer survivor, Mary Robinson, to learn some strategies that you can use to get through challenging situations. Come learn tips and techniques for keeping your holiday cheer all season long! [December 3, 2022, 10:00 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.] – view recording here.
2021 Create Your Best Life Events
- Introduction to Functional Medicine: From Surviving to Thriving – Cassie Krause, APRN.
Description: Functional Medicine focuses our attention on the body as a whole: mind, body and spirit. Explore the research supporting holistic strategies that assist overall health, and learn to truly thrive through a foundation of a healthy lifestyle. [January 16, 2021 10:00 a.m. to Noon] - “Just in Case”. . . Finding Your Courage to Engage in Advance Care Planning – Melissa Teply, MD.
Description: Preparing for unexpected and potentially life-threatening medical emergencies can be daunting and emotionally draining. Learn what advance care planning is, why it’s important, and how you can communicate your wishes to your loved ones and medical providers. [February 6, 2021 10:00 a.m. to Noon] - Conscious Self Care – How Resonance Informs Our Choices – Amy Camie, CCM.
Description: This fresh, inspiring program expands perceptions of self-care through a combination of therapeutic harp music, personal experiences and a clear understanding of vibrational resonance. Discover how resonance informs our choices; how our energetic presence affects those around us, and why it’s important to take care of ourselves, especially as we care for others. Learn simple and effective ways to support yourself throughout the day. [March 13, 2021 10:00 a.m. to Noon] - Let’s Talk Lymphedema! – Lauren Robins, OTD, OTR/L, CLT.
Description: Have you ever wondered what you can do to lower your chances of developing lymphedema? What to look for? Or when to seek help? Come find the answers to these questions and more! Grab your coffee and join us from the comfort of your own home to talk to an expert about all things lymphedema. In this interactive session you will learn everything from prevention and precautions to the signs of onset and how to treat it. Any and all questions are welcomed and encouraged! [April 24, 2021 10:00 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.] – view recording here. - Simple Exercise & Nutrition During and After Cancer – Lauren Robins, OTD, OTR/L, CLT.
Description: Have you tried returning to physical activity and has the pandemic set you back? Are you confused about what food or supplements you should be consuming after cancer? Join us as we demonstrate simple and easy exercises that you can do in your own home! You’ll also learn more about what foods can benefit and enhance your cancer recovery. Come ready with questions for this interactive session where pajamas are welcomed too! [May 8, 2021 10:00 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.] – view recording here. - It’s Your Time to Heal and LIVESTRONG! – Brenda Helget (ATTH) and Amy Roux (YMCA).
Description: Are you ready to take the next step in your cancer recovery? The YMCA and A Time to Heal (ATTH) have partnered to give YOU programs designed specifically for helping heal cancer survivors! LIVESTRONG at the YMCA is proven to help improve your strength, flexibility and balance while research shows A Time to Heal reduces stress, boosts hope and helps improve your quality of life. Best of all, these programs are FREE! [June 12, 2021 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.] – view recording here. - Compassion and Empathy for Caregivers and Survivors – Mary Grace Zeleny, LHMP.
Description: Caring for someone with cancer is challenging for both the caregiver and the patient. This session will help you both navigate challenges, develop strategies for giving and receiving care, and create awareness of loving kindness for both of you. Bring a pen and paper for a session of reflection. [July 31, 2021 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.] – view recording here. - “Natural Medicines” for Cancer Survivors: How to Safely Navigate the Herb & Supplement Jungle – Teri Gabel, PharmD, BCPP.
Description: It’s a jungle out there! Herbal medications and supplements abound – but how do you know what’s safe? What are the side effects? Will they interact with the other drugs or supplements that you’re taking now? How do you choose what’s right for your specific needs? Learn these answers from a pharmaceutical expert on this ever-evolving topic. If you have taken Survivorship 101, this will be an update to the session 10 chapter in your participant workbook. [August 28, 2021 10:00 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.] – view recording here. - Cancer+Careers: Balancing Work After a Cancer Diagnosis – Rachel Becker, LMSW.
Description: Balancing treatment and recovery with employment can bring with it many complexities. Challenges may include making decisions about disclosure in the workplace; determining whether or not to continue working; finding solutions for managing side effects; mapping out your return to an existing job (or finding a new one) after time off; and so much more. Join Rachel Becker LMSW from Cancer+Careers and explore approaches for figuring out your best path forward when it comes to working and/or job hunting after a cancer diagnosis. [September 25, 2021, 10:00 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.] – view recording here. - Navigating the Holidays with Cancer – Jane Karges, Clinical Psychologist.
Description: How do you feel when you think about the upcoming holiday season? Are you anxious about traveling? Are you worried about letting your family know that your life isn’t back to “normal” yet? Are you concerned that there is too much to do, and you won’t have enough energy? Listen to our open dialogue about navigating the holidays with a cancer diagnosis. We’ll discuss the importance of setting healthy boundaries and evaluating your priorities during the holiday season. [November 6, 2021, 10:00 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.] – view recording here. - Intimacy After a Cancer Diagnosis – Brier Jirka, LIMHP and Certified Sex Therapist.
Description: What happens to your intimacy after a cancer diagnosis? Who can help support you on this journey of adjustment and change? Do you want resources and an open dialogue with tangible tools and techniques? If you’ve answered yes, then this is the conversation for you. Come learn about libido, arousal, orgasm and other difficulties that arise after cancer treatments. You will also learn new ways to connect to your partner through touch and restructuring expectations. [December 11, 2021, 10:00 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.]
Interested in a past topic? All event recordings are available here.
If you have questions, please email us at info@atth.org to make your suggestion!