Let's Talk About Your Breasts

Dorothy Gibbons, CEO & Cofounder

The Rose Breast Center of Excellence presents Let's Talk About Your Breasts with Dorothy Gibbons.

Each week, Dorothy hosts candid conversations with an array of people in the breast cancer community. From doctors and employees to donors and individuals who influence policy, you'll learn all there is to know about the disease which impacts so many women in our community.

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Episodes

Grief and Healing: Kirk Cox’s Journey Through Loss
Today
Grief and Healing: Kirk Cox’s Journey Through Loss
Kirk Cox joins Dorothy on Let’s Talk About Your Breasts to discuss how early encounters with his mother's breast cancer in the 60s profoundly affected him. Watching her bravery through invasive surgeries and treatments left an indelible mark. This personal history guided him as he later managed his Aunt Dottie's care and faced the tragic loss of his own child. Key Questions Answered 1. How was Kirk Cox first introduced to breast cancer? 2. What were the treatments and experiences of his mother with breast cancer in the 1960s? 3. How did Kirk's mother manage her illness while raising children? 4. What was the difference in cancer treatment between the 1960s and 1970s as experienced by Kirk's mother? 5. What responsibility did Kirk take on after his mother’s passing? 6. How did the treatment for his Aunt Dottie's breast cancer differ from his mother's? 7. How has Kirk experienced and dealt with grief throughout his life? 8. What impact did the loss of Kirk's son have on him? Timestamped Overview 00:00 Mother's breast cancer diagnosed later, treatment different. 04:45 Aunt misdiagnosed; family care responsibilities transferred. 09:05 Two friends drowned in lake after storm. 09:55 Received devastating news, started grieving child's loss. 13:53 Dealing with grief consistently prevents anxiety. 17:49 Grief resurfaces unpredictably; embrace it for healing. 21:59 It's okay to ask for help grieving. 25:39 Support network is vital for difficult conversations. 26:26 Impressed supporter of cancer care and technologies.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Redefining Career Priorities After Loss - Part 1
5d ago
Redefining Career Priorities After Loss - Part 1
Ellen Chen's story of navigating a career change after her father's passing is one of introspection and reinvention. Balancing personal grief and professional demands, Ellen chose to resign from her demanding HR role. This pivotal decision allowed her to prioritize family and launch her own consulting firm. Key Questions Answered 1. What prompted Ellen Chen to share her personal story at this moment? 2. What was the health condition of Ellen’s father, and what happened to him? 3. How did Ellen Chen manage both her high-demand job and her responsibilities towards her family? 4. What led Ellen Chen to contemplate and eventually decide to quit her job? 5. What structured plan did Ellen follow post-resignation? 6. How did Ellen reconnect with her family and friends during her break? 7. How does Ellen address imposter syndrome in her career and advice for others? Timestamped Overview 00:00 Immigrant, moved to Texas, studied programming, COBOL. 03:56 Imposter syndrome is natural and encourages growth. 06:53 Men apply when underqualified; women fear inadequacy. 12:10 Moved parents to Houston; Dad's passing affected me. 16:02 Quit job in 2024 with husband's support. 19:58 Reconnecting with family, staying busy, building bridges. 23:20 Personal reflection during three-month silent retreat. 25:03 Started networking and exploring job opportunities again. 29:53 Consulting leverages experience, fixes culture, saves jobs. 32:07 Pausing to discuss feelings about career change.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Improving Healthcare Access for Uninsured Women
1w ago
Improving Healthcare Access for Uninsured Women
Why are financial barriers still preventing women from accessing critical breast cancer screenings? Dorothy Gibbons addresses this enduring issue in Texas, highlighting systematic and budgetary challenges. Alongside Dr. Damien Kelly, they discuss the importance of patient navigators and the persistent inequities in healthcare. The Rose continues to fight for comprehensive coverage and timely treatments for uninsured patients. Key Questions Answered 1. Why is there a need for expanded breast cancer procedures coverage in Texas? 2. What are the financial challenges that prevent accessible healthcare for uninsured individuals? 3. How can AI impact healthcare at The Rose? 4. What role does personal experience with breast cancer among The Rose staff play in patient care? 5. How have dialogues and conversations about healthcare issues progressed over the past 38 years? 6. What impact did policies like Obamacare have on healthcare coverage? 7. What are the current healthcare challenges for uninsured women in 2024? 8. How do financial and systemic barriers impact both insured and uninsured women regarding medical treatments? Timestamped Overview 00:00 Landed job through research-oriented interview at U of H. 04:58 Interviewing impactful locals for "Speak your Peace." 07:36 Marketing role supporting breast cancer awareness initiatives. 13:41 Breast cancer challenges and progress in treatment. 16:10 Technology added hurdles to accessing necessary healthcare. 18:43 Patient navigators help guide diverse cancer journeys. 22:28 Collaboratively overcoming obstacles in social services. 25:40 Guiding parents through young cancer diagnosis. 30:28 Excited for AI future, cancer-experienced navigators. 32:10 Choosing between necessities is a persistent issue.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Health and Advocacy for Women in the Food and Beverage Industry
Nov 26 2024
Health and Advocacy for Women in the Food and Beverage Industry
Dr. Lori Choi returns to the show to discuss the declining state of women's healthcare in Texas. She and Dorothy highlight the shortage of resources, particularly in rural and low-income areas.  Dr. Choi’s organization, "I'll Have What She's Having," incorporates her medical background and aims to support uninsured workers, especially women, in male-dominated fields. Efforts focus on raising awareness through pop-up dining events. These events also fund preventive care, mental health services, cancer screenings, and reproductive healthcare.  DISCLAIMER: The views expressed by our guests don’t necessarily reflect that of The Rose nor are they a substitute for medical advice provided by the listener’s doctor. Key Questions Answered 1.) What are the main healthcare challenges faced by pregnant women in Texas? 2.) How has the political climate affected healthcare needs for pregnant women and family planning? 3.) What is the state of mammogram access for women in Texas? 4.) How has the COVID-19 pandemic impacted the healthcare workforce in Texas? 5.) What obstacles do insured individuals still face in the current healthcare insurance system? 6.) Why is there a shortage of obstetricians in Texas, and what is its predicted impact? 7.) What is the mission of "I'll Have What She's Having," and how does it support women in male-dominated fields? Timestamped Overview 00:00 Physician supports women in male-dominated fields. 04:25 Medicaid access complicated for pregnant Texas women. 07:02 Program supports pregnancy options and medication abortion. 11:41 Young women face barriers to mammogram access. 15:19 Concierge care model for bypassing traditional system. 18:27 Discussing women's health issues is more open. 20:41 Health awareness challenges for food industry workers. 23:39 Mental health advancements inspire hopeful peer support. 27:27 Houston's childcare and eldercare insufficient, burdens women. 30:19 Supporting independence, career, and family amidst challenges.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A Student’s Journey from Medical School to Nonprofit Healthcare Leadership
Nov 21 2024
A Student’s Journey from Medical School to Nonprofit Healthcare Leadership
Maya's journey from medical school to the Rice Business Board Fellows program highlights her ambition to address systemic public health issues. Focusing on internal medicine and cardiology, Maya discusses with Dorothy how she leverages an MD/MBA to understand the business side of medicine. Her dedication to healthcare access and innovation drives her work in nonprofits and medical technology. Key Questions Answered 1.) What is the Rice Business Board Fellows program, and what is its purpose? 2.) Why did Maya choose to work in the healthcare sector through this program? 3.) Why did Maya decide to pursue an MD/MBA pathway? 4.) What specialty in medicine does Maya plan to pursue, and what are her career goals? 5.) How does The Rose's organizational culture reflect Maya's observations about long-term volunteers and employees? 6.) In what ways is Maya involved in healthcare access and innovation? Timestamped Overview 00:00 Interested in healthcare: understanding nonprofit strategy, objectives. 04:16 Medical training lacks focus on business skills. 08:46 Addressing healthcare inequalities through stakeholder engagement. 10:49 India provides free maternity essentials; motivational experience. 15:17 Nonprofits need funding to fulfill their mission. 17:02 Long-term commitment due to strong organizational culture. 22:31 Medical students spend time understanding patients' families. 25:17 Learning breast cancer patient perspectives in research. 28:49 Medicine fits my skills and makes me happy.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Más Allá del Miedo: Cómo El Cáncer de Mama Transformó a Maribel
Nov 20 2024
Más Allá del Miedo: Cómo El Cáncer de Mama Transformó a Maribel
En este episodio, hablamos con Maribel, sobreviviente de cáncer de mama diagnosticada en The Rose. Maribel comparte cómo el cáncer de su hermana menor fue una señal de alerta que la motivó a realizarse una mamografía sin seguro médico. Gracias a la ayuda de The Rose, pudo recibir un diagnóstico a tiempo, lo que fue crucial para su tratamiento. Maribel nos cuenta sobre los desafíos emocionales, la pérdida de cabello, y su decisión de someterse a una mastectomía, destacando el apoyo de su familia y la transformación que vivió. Hoy, nos deja un mensaje de esperanza y nos recuerda la importancia de la prevención, especialmente para las mujeres latinas. Escucha este episodio y conoce la historia de Maribel, una inspiración para tomar acción con su salud. Preguntas clave respondidas en el episodio: ¿Cómo descubrió Maribel que tenía cáncer de mama y cuál fue el papel de The Rose en su diagnóstico?¿Qué papel jugó el cáncer de su hermana en su decisión de realizarse la mamografía a pesar de no tener seguro médico?¿Cuáles fueron los mayores desafíos emocionales y físicos durante el tratamiento, incluyendo la pérdida de cabello y la mastectomía?¿Cómo impactó el diagnóstico de cáncer en la relación de Maribel con sus hijos y esposo?¿Cómo se transformó Maribel a través de su experiencia con el cancer?¿Cuál es su mensaje para otras mujeres latinas que aún no se hacen sus chequeos?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Blindness, Breast Cancer, and Bold Choices: One Woman’s Unyielding Spirit
Nov 19 2024
Blindness, Breast Cancer, and Bold Choices: One Woman’s Unyielding Spirit
Jennifer Parrish, Manager of Business Services at the Lighthouse of Houston, joins Dorothy to share her story. Parrish talks about managing work at the Lighthouse of Houston, overcoming transportation issues for treatments, and addressing misconceptions around breast cancer.  Despite facing breast cancer, legal blindness, and personal loss, Jennifer's resilience and positive attitude shine. She emphasizes the importance of self-care and seeks to inspire others through The Lighthouse’s podcast, Sightless Voices, Unleashing Potential. Key Questions Answered 1.) What was Jennifer Parrish's oncotype score, and what did it imply? 2.) Why did Jennifer Parrish opt for surgery to remove her ovaries and fallopian tubes? 3.) How did Jennifer Parrish rate the difficulty of her breast cancer journey? 4.) Did Jennifer Parrish have time to grieve her father's passing? 5.) What challenges did Jennifer Parrish face in navigating healthcare facilities and appointments? 6.) What actions did Jennifer Parrish take to make her cancer experience more enjoyable? 7.) How did Jennifer Parrish manage her work during radiation therapy and her cancer treatments? Timestamped Overview 00:00 Jennifer Parrish: Inspiring journey overcoming challenges, inspiring empowerment. 03:40 Moved for better opportunities, settled in Houston. 06:41 Navigating challenges delays mammogram for blind patient. 09:46 Family support and friendships during cancer treatment. 15:11 Podcast helps raise awareness about cancer support services. 15:56 Used Google Maps, brushed up on Spanish. 22:11 Blindness intertwined with breast cancer challenge, manageable. 25:35 Need to relax more during recovery time. 27:00 Overheating scare during daily afternoon walk. 31:01 Understanding real issues fosters connection and empathy.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Aunt Tonja’s Legacy: More Than Just Words
Nov 14 2024
Aunt Tonja’s Legacy: More Than Just Words
Since the death of her Aunt Tonja from breast cancer, Chrissy Ransome has redoubled her efforts to ensure women in her community get the screening they need. Tonja's late-stage diagnosis, partly due to being uninsured, profoundly impacted Chrissy. Now, she channels her grief into action, spreading awareness and resources through various community initiatives. Key Questions Answered 1.)Who is Chrissy Ransome and what inspires her community work? 2.) What is the Reach Project, and who does it serve? 3.) What is the goal of the entrepreneurship program within the Reach Project? 4.) What role does Chrissy play in the Reach Project's entrepreneurship program? 5.) Why was Chrissy's aunt interested in bringing breast cancer screening services to the community? 6.) What impact did Tonja's story have on community initiatives and outreach? 7.) What are some challenges faced by the people served by the Reach Project in the Bryan College Station area? Timestamped Overview 00:00 Max's Reach project highlights unnoticed campus workers. 04:09 Entrepreneurship program incubates side business ideas. 07:33 She hid her pain; inspired others; died. 10:36 Her illness progressed quickly; inspired preventative actions. 16:35 Aspiring to impact generations through community, love. 18:07 Helping others in multifaceted community situations. 21:52 Supported last year's students' new storefront openings.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Behind the Mic: Real Stories and Prayers with Reena Friedman-Watts
Nov 12 2024
Behind the Mic: Real Stories and Prayers with Reena Friedman-Watts
Reena Friedman-Watts, host of the popular Better Call Daddy podcast, shared the challenges she faced in scheduling a mammogram due to the complexity of the healthcare system. Despite being insured, navigating referrals and regulations proved difficult. Reena’s conversation with Dorothy conversation highlights the importance of advocating for oneself and the systemic changes needed to improve access to crucial health screenings. Key Questions Answered 1.) What is a "God box" and what is its purpose? 2.) Why is it important for uninsured women to have a physician referral for mammograms? 3.) What difficulties did Reena face in scheduling a mammogram? 4.) Why should young women advocate for themselves in medical settings? 5.) What alternatives to mammograms are available for nursing women? 6.) What cultural shifts in health checkups did Reena observe between generations? 7.)What advice does Dorothy give to Reena regarding mammogram scheduling? Timestamped Overview 00:00 Comfortable performing with supportive company. 05:24 Experience in reality TV led to career growth. 08:39 Evolving podcast satisfied my passion for stories. 10:40 Co-hosted a podcast, then started own show. 15:53 Mom's cancer; prayed at Western Wall during trip. 19:03 Physician blends Western and Eastern medicine practices. 21:23 Discreet prayer list burned each week. 22:57 Writing goals amplifies their chances of realization. 28:03 Nursed child four years, concerned about mammograms. 30:32 Breast cancer requires various tests; insurance challenges.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Increasing Mammogram Accessibility for Women Veterans
Nov 7 2024
Increasing Mammogram Accessibility for Women Veterans
Dr. Mahdieh Parizi is a pioneer in women's healthcare at the VA, and she speaks with Dorothy about the introduction of patient self-scheduling for mammograms and the multifactorial approach to improving patient return rates. Parizi mentions hosting educational events for clinicians and patients to highlight the importance of regular screenings. Additionally, Parizi shares insights on balancing professional and personal responsibilities, advocating for regular mammograms despite mixed recommendations, and overcoming insurance hurdles. With 25,000 registered women veterans and expanded breast imaging clinics, Parizi highlights ongoing efforts to increase breast cancer screenings and early detection. Key Questions Answered 1.) What is the patient self-scheduling system and how does it benefit mammogram return rates? 2.) What multifactorial approach is used to improve mammogram return rates? 3. How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected late-stage cancer diagnoses? 4.) What are Community-Based Outpatient Clinics (CBOCs) and how do they improve access? 5.) What challenges does the VA healthcare system face in improving breast imaging programs? 6.) What should women advocate for regarding annual mammography starting at age 40? 7.) What role does patient navigation play in improving mammogram follow-ups? Timestamped Overview 00:00 Dr. Parizi innovates VA mammography care for veterans. 04:31 Working at The Rose: Compassionate nonprofit healthcare experience. 07:39 Passionately pioneered women veterans' healthcare program. 12:04 Clinic adapts processes for efficient, comprehensive care. 16:01 Expanding breast imaging for women veterans' outreach. 19:35 Creative strategies increased patient attendance post-decrease. 21:01 Patients self-schedule mammograms; education events aid. 25:53 Balancing motherhood and professional responsibilities' challenges. 28:17 Annual mammography from age 40 saves lives.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Miracle Baby, Miraculous Mom: One Woman's Fight Against Cancer
Nov 5 2024
Miracle Baby, Miraculous Mom: One Woman's Fight Against Cancer
In this episode, Dorothy Gibbons welcomes back Courtney Clark, a guest whose story captivated listeners and became the most downloaded episode in the podcast's two-season run. Courtney, who was diagnosed with breast cancer at 23 weeks pregnant, returns to share an update on her journey two years after her initial treatment. Key Questions Answered Who is Courtney Clark and what significant experience brought her to The Rose?How did Courtney first discover the lump in her breast, and what was the initial response from her previous physician?What was Courtney's diagnosis after being evaluated at The Rose?What type of treatment did Courtney undergo while she was pregnant?What surgeries did Courtney have following her initial treatment?What challenges did Courtney face with her insurance, specifically Medicaid, during her treatment?How did The Rose assist Courtney in overcoming her insurance issues?What is ‘chemotherapy teeth,’ as mentioned by Courtney?What advice does Courtney give to others dealing with similar insurance issues?What exciting personal development is Courtney experiencing after her last surgery? Timestamped Overview 00:00 Lump misdiagnosed, later confirmed during pregnancy. 04:44 Navigating Medicaid process post-mastectomy, ensuring coverage. 08:58 Medicaid complexities affect women's access to treatment. 11:15 Timely chemo is crucial; programs aid uninsured women. 15:27 Advocate for yourself, verify information, assert needs. 17:12 Be informed, value life, resilience is crucial.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Rose: A Beacon of Hope
Oct 30 2024
The Rose: A Beacon of Hope
Why is access to timely breast cancer treatment still a challenge for uninsured Texans? Dorothy Gibbons' joins CanCare President and CEO Darcy Wells to discuss The Rose’s mission. Fueled by the stories of uninsured women, Gibbons and her team strive to bridge the gap in healthcare. Their patient navigation program stands as a testament to hope and resilience. Learn more about The Rose and our mission to provide quality breast health care to uninsured Texans across forty-three counties in Southeast Texas, regardless of their ability to pay, at therose.org. KEY QUESTIONS ANSWERED 1. What is the mission of The Rose? 2. What inspired Dorothy Gibbons and Dr. Dixie Melillo to start The Rose? 3. What were the economic conditions in Texas like during the founding of The Rose? 4. How was The Rose initially funded? 5. What prompted the creation of The Rose's patient navigation program? 6. What is Dorothy Gibbons' view on the current healthcare landscape and the need for The Rose? 7. What future aspirations does Dorothy Gibbons have for The Rose? TIMESTAMPED OVERVIEW 00:00 Stories of courage: Dorothy Gibbons discusses advocacy. 05:11 Pioneering journalist defied norms in cancer diagnosis. 07:11 Excited about dinner with Rose Kushner. 10:48 Rose questioned the need for a tribute. 14:53 Evolving healthcare required expanding services and resources. 16:37 Patient navigation program ensures sponsored breast cancer treatment. 20:18 Denied treatment due to no insurance coverage. 24:05 Need funds for comprehensive uninsured women's care. 27:58 Black women in 30s face undetected breast cancer. 30:42 Unexpected leadership yields growth and widespread impact. 35:12 Podcast impacts others, inspires advocacy, career's end. 39:11 Advocate for patient navigators for all diseases.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Rose's New Breast Cancer Services: MRI and Genetic Testing
Oct 29 2024
The Rose's New Breast Cancer Services: MRI and Genetic Testing
How crucial is advanced breast care for women's health? Jessica Duckworth, COO of the Rose, sheds light on the importance of new breast imaging services and genetic testing. By integrating these state-of-the-art technologies, the Rose aims to provide comprehensive care for both insured and uninsured patients. This initiative strives to catch breast cancer at its earliest stages, ensuring better treatment outcomes and higher survival rates.Not only does Jessica play a critical role in The Rose's mission to serve the uninsured, she's also a survivor. Hear her story during episode twelve of season one.Learn more about The Rose and our mission to provide quality breast health care to uninsured Texans across forty-three counties in Southeast Texas, regardless of their ability to pay, at therose.org. Key Questions Answered1. What new services has The Rose recently launched?2. What is the relationship between The Rose and Live Healthy Imaging?3. What does the term “continuum of care” mean in the context of The Rose's services?4. Why would a patient need a breast MRI?   5. How are patients identified as high risk for breast cancer?   6. How does The Rose address the needs of uninsured patients in relation to these new services?7. How has the donation from an anonymous donor impacted The Rose's services?8. Why is genetic testing considered important for breast cancer patients?   9. What role does research and clinical trials play at The Rose now?   10. What advice is given to women regarding mammograms?Timestamped Overview 05:26 Algorithm determines breast cancer risk, facilitates follow-up.08:53 Ensuring comprehensive care through expanded screening program.12:37 Partnered to enhance clinical trial diversity, accessibility.14:55 Breast MRI, high-risk screening, genetic testing coordination.19:37 Start mammograms at 40; earlier if high-risk.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Partnering with Christus St. Mary's Clinic to Bridge the Healthcare Gap
Oct 28 2024
Partnering with Christus St. Mary's Clinic to Bridge the Healthcare Gap
Dr. Popp returns to the podcast to discuss healthcare challenges for the uninsured. We'll explore the work at Christus St. Mary's Clinic in Houston, focusing on preventive care and early detection. Dr. Popp shares shocking statistics, like "when an uninsured person is diagnosed with breast cancer, 60% of the time they will die of breast cancer than an insured woman." We'll discuss mobile mammography coaches and innovative solutions to bridge the healthcare gap. Join us to understand why "the uninsured have waited, have found something, and it's much more advanced." Key Questions Answered 1. Why is mobile screening important for the clinic's patients? 2. What was the shocking finding from Dr. Popp's recent breast health report? 3. How does lack of transportation affect women’s access to mammograms? 4. What strategy does the clinic employ to ensure patient attendance for mobile screenings? 5. What misconceptions exist about uninsured people and their interest in health? 6. What impact do mobile units have on the clinic’s ability to serve patients? 7. Why is follow-up after abnormal mammograms crucial for uninsured women? Timestamped Overview 00:00 Only 2 of 600 women had current mammograms. 06:21 Scheduling conflicts cause attendance issues for services. 07:48 Small deposit instills dignity and accountability. 11:58 Screenings save lives; early detection is crucial. 14:57 Word-of-mouth spreads awareness about mammogram services. 20:22 Programs ensure follow-up treatments for breast abnormalities. 22:00 Assisting women after abnormal mammograms is crucial. 25:05 Blessings appear unexpectedly through divine interventions. Support The Rose HERE. Subscribe to Let’s Talk About Your Breasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, and wherever you get your podcasts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.