REAL STORIES

REAL STRENGTH

MORE THAN A DIAGNOSIS.

ABOUT

Woman reading a sign that says 'Weekly Podcast Episodes' in a cozy room with a microphone and laptop nearby.

I’m Gwen Kelly, the host and creator of Combating Cancer, a podcast dedicated to open and candid discussions about life during and after a cancer diagnosis.

At the age of 19, I was diagnosed with stage III astrocytoma brain cancer. This pivotal experience transformed everything—my body, my sense of self, and my perspective on the world. Combating Cancer emerged from the conversations I couldn't find—those addressing fear, grief, survivorship, and the inconvenient realities that don’t fit neatly into “inspirational” narratives.

While I don’t speak as a medical professional, I share insights as someone who has navigated this journey and continues to do so alongside survivors, patients, caregivers, and advocates. I firmly believe that cancer doesn’t conclude with treatment, and the conversation shouldn’t either.

MISSION

Blurry image of a person walking, wearing a denim skirt, white socks, and black shoes, while holding a colorful object or bag.

To cultivate a safe and honest environment where individuals affected by cancer feel acknowledged, understood, and less isolated. Through authentic stories and unfiltered dialogues, I strive to validate the emotions we often keep to ourselves, combat loneliness, and remind our community that true strength often manifests as honesty.

NEW EPISODES

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EVERY WEDNESDAY

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COMBATING CANCER

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NEW EPISODES · EVERY WEDNESDAY · COMBATING CANCER ·

WHAT SETS COMBATING CANCER APART

Woman with dark hair lying on a couch speaking on a corded phone, smiling, with one leg resting on the windowsill. She is wearing a black top, a cream-colored cardigan, and denim shorts. A laptop and a book titled 'Dropping Every Day' are on the table in front of her.

Combating Cancer is not your average cancer podcast. It delves into discussions that often go unspoken—addressing the fear, grief, identity changes, and the complex realities of survivorship that don’t conform to typical “inspirational” stories. With an honest and unfiltered approach, this podcast cultivates an environment where patients, survivors, caregivers, and advocates can truly feel seen, heard, and understood.

  • "This was the first time I have felt like someone else knew what i was going through."

    —Former Guest

  • "I listen every week to have a greater insight on what my wife is going through so i can support her better."

    —Weekly Listener

  • "Thank you for letting me share my story, I never though someone would want to hear it."

    —Former Guest

  • "Every week I listen on my way to work to gain new appreciation for life."

    -Weekly Listener

  • "I didn't think my story was important enough to share, but this platform taught me that all stories are worthy."

    -Former Guest

  • "You are making the cancer community have hope again."

    -Former Guest

  • "I finally feel heard from someone my age going through cancer."

    -Weekly Listener

  • "I never knew i was still struggling with the trauma that comes with cancer untill you spoke about it."

    -Weekly Listener

Featured Episodes

Dive into honest, unfiltered episodes of Combating Cancer. Click here to listen to all previous episodes.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Combating Cancer is a podcast dedicated to honest, unfiltered conversations about life with and after cancer. It focuses on the emotional, mental, and human sides of cancer that are often left out of traditional narratives, creating space for real stories and real experiences.

  • This podcast is for anyone impacted by cancer—patients, survivors, caregivers, loved ones, and those grieving a loss. No matter your age, diagnosis, or how long ago cancer was part of your life, this space is for you.

  • Not at all. While many conversations center around survivorship, Combating Cancer welcomes caregivers, advocates, medical professionals, and anyone who has been affected by cancer in any way.

  • No. You don’t need prior experience, a polished story, or the “right words.” Conversations are guided with care, and you’re supported every step of the way.

  • The podcast is available on major streaming platforms, including Spotify and Apple Podcasts. New episodes are shared regularly.

  • If you’d like to share your story, ask a question, collaborate, or simply connect, you’re welcome to reach out via email, phone, or by messaging on any social media platform. All contact information can be found on this site.

WANT TO SHARE YOUR STORY

No matter your age, diagnosis, or when it happened—your story matters. Reach out and be heard.

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