HER Speaker Series
Find inspiration at home as leaders in health, wellness, business, and community share their stories in monthly live Zoom events.
Potty Talk: Managing Upper GI Symptoms of Treatment
In this edition of ‘Potty Talk’, UFH registered dietitian, Erin Pellegrin dives into the causes of and strategies to manage symptoms of upper GI distress caused by cancer treatment including taste changes, sore mouth, reflux, nausea, indigestion, and more.
Cardio-Oncology
Dr. Bhattacharya and Dr. Bloom join to discuss the effects of cancer treatment on the cardiovascular system and how cardio-oncology can help patients manage their cardiovascular health through treatment.
Additional Resources:
Treatment-Related Premature Menopause
Dr. Diljeet Singh joins to discuss treatment-related menopause. She explains what’s happening during this time and why symptoms occur. Plus, she provides tips for managing symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, body aches, disturbances in sleep and mood, sleep dysfunction, and vaginal dryness.
Additional Resources:
Massage for Self-Care
Discover the power of self-care using massage to support you both physically and mentally! Join us as Laura Bryant-Earner, LMT, CMLDT Service Director at Healwell joins to share massage techniques for self-massage.
Ovarian Cancer Resources Panel
A panel of ovarian cancer experts and community leaders join us this Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month to share resources for ovarian cancer patients and caregivers.
Advances in Ovarian Cancer – Immunotherapy & Beyond BRCA
Dr. Stephanie Blank and Dr. Dmitriy Zamarin discuss advancements in ovarian cancer research, immunotherapy, and beyond BRCA.
Cancer and Physical Therapy – A Balancing Act
Dr. Erin Helm and Dr. Michael Fernandes discuss aspects of cancer and its treatment that can make you feel unsteady and strategies for improving balance and reducing fall risk.
Clinical Trials
Ricki Fairley and Valerie Worthy of Touch BBCA discuss their initiative When We Tri(al). They will be speaking about clinical trials and the importance of participating, especially for the black community.
Potty Talk
Erin Pellegrin, RD and Sarah Murphy, LPC join to talk about the effects of stress on the gut, GI side effects of treatment, managing symptoms, and much more.
Surgical Options and Updates for Breast Cancer
Dr. Lucy De La Cruz and Dr. Gabriel Del Corral join to talk about current surgical options for patients undergoing breast cancer treatment.
*Note: Must be logged into YouTube to view due to age restriction
Hablemos de las Visitas al Baño
Jenny Kirn, LPC y Katheryne Romero, RD hablan sobre problemas estomacales, nutrición, mente y cuerpo.
Más información: Mente Cuerpo Digestion
Exercise for Bone Health and Metastatic Disease
Priscilla Fitzpatrick, Founder of Stronger Thru Cancer and Fran Conway, RN join us this National Osteoporosis Awareness and Prevention Month to talk about the benefits of movement to support bone health, especially with metastatic disease that may affect it.
Demystifying Medical Marijuana
Back by popular demand! Expert panelists Dr. Sulak, Dr. Wilson-King, and Dr. Williams-Park talk about how medical marijuana can be used to manage symptoms during treatment and recovery and answer all your questions about how it works and if it’s the right fit for you.
Tips for Better Sleep During Treatment and Recovery
Dr. Lexi Muench, PsyD discusses the science around sleep and gives some tips to improve sleep quality during treatment and in recovery.
What is Cording?
Jami Rothman, MD and Janet Roberto, PT talk about what cording is, why it can develop, and how to relieve symptoms.
Additional Resources:
Obesity and Breast Cancer
Join Manmeet Malik, DO, Assistant Professor of Clinical Surgery at Weill Cornell Medicine, as she discusses her research regarding the relationship between obesity and breast cancer diagnoses and recurrence.
Alcohol + Breast Cancer
Expert panelists Scott D Siegel, PhD, MHCDS, Sarah P. Cate, M.D., and Erin Pellegrin, R.D. discuss known links between alcohol use and breast cancer, alcohol in social situations, and the science behind alcohol consumption.
Additional Resources:
Alcohol Calorie Counter
Calculate Grams of Alcohol + Number of Drinks
The Science of Alcohol and Breast Cancer
Decolonizing Yoga
Michelle H. El Khoury, Ph.D discusses the benefits of yoga and how to create more inclusive, diverse & decolonized mindfulness practices in our communities.
Management of Cancer Induced Peripheral Neuropathy
Join Rita Padhiar, DPT, ReVital Certified Therapist as she discusses Cancer-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy including why it occurs and what we can do to alleviate some of the symptoms, including working with a physical therapist.
Click here to view at-home exercises to relieve neuropathy
Breast Cancer Surgery Advances with Dr. Lucy De La Cruz
Join Dr. Lucy De La Cruz, Chief of the Breast Surgery Program at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, for a live discussion on Zoom on advances in breast cancer surgery including nipple sparing and lumpectomy with oncoplasty.
Autumn on the Farm with Eli Weaver
Join Eli Weaver, herbalist, farmer, and operator of Lancaster Farmacy, on a tour of her certified organic farm. Learn about in season offerings, the medicinal herbs, and more.
Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction
Join the team at the Marcus Institute of Integrative Health, Jefferson Health, as they discuss the benefits of meditation to help with stress management, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, cancer and more. The Myrna Brind Center for Mindfulness is the longest standing program of the Marcus Institute of Integrative Health, Jefferson Health, and the region’s leading provider of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) programs.
Herbs and Supplements for Cancer Care
Gynecologic Oncologist Dr. Diljeet Singh discusses common herbs and supplements used among the cancer community, as well as reviews supplement safety, proper usage, and risks.
Breast Cancer Brain Metastasis with Dr. Linna Li
Dr. Linna Li, System Chief of Oncology Radiology at Main Line Health, shares what to know about symptoms and advancements in treatment.
On the Farm with Elisabeth Weaver of Lancaster Farmacy
Join Lancaster Farmacy’s farmer/herbalist/operator, Elisabeth Weaver on a walk around her certified organic farm! She will share what is growing in the fields this time of year and learn about medicinal uses of herbs. She will share some of the products Lancaster Farmacy makes from the fresh and dried herbs she grows.
Bone Health Expert Panel
Join expert panelists for an interactive discussion on how you can take active measures to ensure ways to maintain your bone health through nutrition and exercise.
Featuring:
- Dr. Nathan Handley
Assistant Professor of Medical Oncology at the Sidney Kimmel Cancer
Fellow in Integrative Medicine and Nutritional Sciences at Thomas Jefferson University - Erin Pellegrin RD, LDN
Culinary Dietitian, Senior Nutrition Manager at Unite for HER - Priscilla Fitzpatrick E-RYT
Cancer Exercise Specialist, Founder and Owner at Stronger Thru Cancer
When We Tri(al) – Clinical Trials for Black Breast Cancer Patients
Black women are drastically underrepresented in clinical trials. Only 3% of clinical trial participants leading to FDA approval of cancer drugs between 2008 and 2018 were Black. The consequences are dire—too many Black women are missing out on access to newly emerging and often life-extending treatments.
Join our friends from Touch BBCA as they discuss their new educational campaign, When WE Tri(al), and share how participation in clinical trials will change the game on advancing science for all black women diagnosed with breast cancer.
Ovarian Cancer Expert Panel
Medical experts discuss as they review new advancements in care, review treatment options, and answer participant questions in a special panel discussion.
Featuring:
- Dr. Cecelia Boardman, HCA Physicians
- Dr. Gretchen E. Glaser, Mayo Clinic
- Dr. Mark Shahin, Jefferson Abington Hospital
- Alicia Patient Advocate Alicia Dellario
Combating Cancer-Related Cognitive Decline
Speech-language pathologist Erica Guardascione, MS, CCC-SLP, of ReVital Cancer Rehabilitation, explores cancer-related cognitive decline (“chemo brain”), answers questions, and offers guidance on ways to combat the condition.
Celebrating Black History Month
Enjoy a special edition of HER Speaker Series celebrating Black leaders in the medical and wellness communities.
Featuring
- Moving Beyond BRCA: Breast Cancer Genetics with Dr. Kristen Whitaker, Fox Chase Cancer Center
- Poetry Reading by Crysty Jenkins, CEO of Thee A.R.T. of Paradise
- Reiki Presentation with Rae Whatley
- Cooking Demonstration by Sherimane Johnson, Chef and Owner at Night Owl Vegan
HER Story with Terri Crudup
Researcher, patient advocate, and breast cancer survivor, Terri Crudup shares her practical ideas for emotional and physical healing.
Genetic Testing vs. Tumor-Based Testing
Join our expert panelists as they discuss genetic testing, understanding terminology, and what it can mean for you and your family when diagnosed with breast or ovarian cancer.
Featuring
- Sue Friedman, Executive Director, FORCE: Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered
- Danielle McKenna, MS, LCGC, Genetic Counselor, Penn Medicine
- Cecilia Hammond, Senior Medical Liaison, Exact Sciences
View Penn Medicine Slides
View FORCE Slides
Bone Health Expert Panel
This panel discussion teaches you how to assess your personal risk and explore ways you can improve your bone health through yoga therapy and nutrition.
Featuring Dr. Evelyn Taiwo of Weill Cornell Medicine, Fran Sexton-Conway of Weill Cornell Medicine and Erin Pellegrin RD, LDN of Unite for HER.
View Bone Health Powerpoint
View Osteoporosis and Yoga Document
This presentation was sponsored by Amgen.
Health Insurance Benefits and Education
Triage Cancer CEO Joanna Fawzy Morales, Esq. helps you to understand your health insurance options, explain how to pick a health insurance plan that works for you, and provide tips for using your health insurance effectively. We will also cover practical ways to manage your medical bills and options to help pay for care.
Click Here to View Joanna’s List of Resources
This presentation was sponsored by Daiichi Sankyo.
Physical Therapy Rehab for Cancer
For those affected by cancer and its treatments, maintaining and/or regaining strength and function is a critical part of recovery. Cancer Rehabilitation empowers people affected by cancer to live their best lives. Cancer rehabilitation therapists can help you prepare for cancer treatment, maintain strength throughout your cancer journey, and resume the activities you care about the most. Working with a specially trained therapist to maximize your overall health while receiving cancer treatments can help you stay engaged with family, continue to meet work responsibilities, and continue to enjoy social activities. Join us for an educational session with Rita Padhiar, DPT, ReVital Certified Therapist, ReVital Cancer Program Director.
Ovarian Cancer Expert Panel
Ovarian cancer often goes undetected until it has spread within the pelvis and abdomen making it more difficult to treat. Early-stage ovarian cancer, in which the disease is confined to the ovary, is more likely to be treated successfully. A new report from the American Cancer Society finds rates of ovarian cancer have declined by 29% between 1985 and 2014. Ovarian cancer deaths have declined 33% between 1976 and 2015. There has been significant number of approvals for new agents used in treatment of ovarian cancer within past 5-10 years more than ever before, yet we continue to have challenging cases that require novel therapies. Please join us to learn more about this disease and have your questions addressed by a panel of experts.
Special thanks to the National Ovarian Cancer Conference $10,000 Sponsor
Lymphedema: After the Elephant Leaves the Room
Join Neepa Mahulkar OTR/L, CLT, Occupational Therapist, Lymphedema Therapist, and Certified Pink Ribbon Therapist, in an interactive session on Lymphedema and breast cancer rehabilitation, exploring how physical and occupational therapy can improve effects of cancer therapy and treatment.
Mindfulness is Mental Health with Rana Walker
Join Rana on a journey of self love, self discovery and self care…it’s all about you.
Rana will share her journey through breast cancer and beyond and offer mindful practices to bring a sense of calm to your daily experience using her signature mind, body, spirit approach. Her life’s work is to help others reveal who they are in truth
Disrupting Outcome Disparities For Black Breast Cancer Patients with Jamil Rivers of the Chrysalis Initiative
Founder Jamil Rivers speaks about nonprofit organization The Chrysalis Initiative and how it seeks to change outcomes for Black women with breast cancer, as well as the resources provided to address needs.
Balancing Work & Cancer with Rachel Becker LMSW of Cancer and Careers
Balancing treatment and recovery with employment can bring with it many complexities. Challenges may include making decisions about disclose in the workplace, determining whether or not to continue working, identifying solutions for managing side effects, mapping out the process of returning to an existing job (or finding a new one) after time off, and so much more. This presentation explores approaches for figuring out your best path forward when it comes to working and/or job hunting after a cancer diagnosis.
How to Create and Sustain A Life of Balance and Thriving in 2021
2020 was quite the year! Many of us started the year creating visions and plans for a fruitful and productive 2021 and beyond. However, even the best plans run the risk of collecting dust on our desks – unless we can stay focused and on our path. Easier said than done, especially when life gets busy and we are pulled in a 1000 different directions! Even still, thriving is our birthright, and our vision for our life deserves to be fulfilled – even when life is challenging. Learn more about how to stay on your journey to building a life of thriving and balance. Specifically, learn about the best way to set goals, what compromises your commitment to our goals, and how to get back on track if you get derailed from your plan.
Demystifying Medical Marijuana
Join Dr. Lynn Bornfriend, MD (Cancer Treatment Centers of America), Franmar Kopko, RPh, Director of Education and Medical Professionals (Apothecarium), and Michelle Moleski, Director of Physician and Network Engagement (ILERA Healthcare) for a panel discussion on the usage of medical marijuana as a part of your treatment plan.
Step Bravely into the New Year with Tracy Davidson and Jen Croneberger
It’s time to hit the re-set button, take stock in what we’ve learned about our resilience skills and take the next step in our own individual journeys. Jen & Tracy will help you gain new perspective on how to see this new year as a time of opportunity, growth and connectedness. You have the chance to gain more insight into your own emotions and your own stories running in your head. Lay a path for your year ahead that will have you more engaged, more fully present and more grateful. Recorded January 7, 2021.
Sex and Intimacy after a Cancer Diagnosis – Getting Your Groove Back with Dr. Sabitha Pillai-Friedman
A cancer diagnosis and treatment can affect your mind and body. How can you get your groove back and reclaim your sensuality and sexuality? Dr. Pillai-Friedman, relationship and sex therapist will discuss the side effects that people experience after cancer treatments and offer creative ways to reclaim your sensuality and sexuality.
Build Your Body’s Stress Resilience with Jolene Hart
Stressful times take a toll on our health and beauty— unless we have the tools for physical and mental resilience. In this session you’ll learn the top ways to reduce your body’s reactivity to stress using tools that include nutrition, movement, and nature to support stress resilience in the mind, body, and spirit. Talk will include a 15-minute guided yoga nidra session.
The Ground Under Our Feet with Cal Cates
Join Cal Cates and explore the really human aspects of, well…being human. Connect about the pain that so often lies in uncertainty and change and come away with useful and actionable ideas. Learn to create more ease and full-hearted living, without lying to yourself about the things you know are true in your life and in our world. You will laugh, nod your head, wonder why you forgot some of the most important reminders about living and just feel uplifted.
Finding The Words and Being Inspired Each Day with Cheldin Barlatt Rumer
Cheldin Barlatt Rumer shares her “Morning Message” practice. Each morning, Cheldin recites and shares an inspirational and motivational quote. Often, we cannot find the words to express our emotions and feelings. She has found that referring to the words of others has given her clarity and a source of reflection. This practice has truly changed the way she begins each day and lives her life. It affords her the ability to focus on a specific daily mission, become more positive, tackle uncomfortable conversations and address unspoken fears and concerns.