Life On Pause is a podcast for and by young adults living with cancer. Each month, young adult cancer patients from Penn State Health share honestly about their cancer diagnosis, treatment and life afterwards. As cancer causes the group to reflect on issues both large and small, surprisingly relatable stories and themes emerge. From relationships to body functions, nothing is off the table.
Recent Episodes
April 1, 2025
Finding Strength in Support: Young Adults on Cancer, Community, and Coming Back Stronger
In this episode of Life on Pause , young adult cancer survivors open up about the incredible power of support systems. From family and friends to classmates, coworkers, and even strangers, our guests share how they leaned on ...
March 18, 2025
Navigating Cancer’s Impact on Education & Career Paths
How does a cancer diagnosis impact education and career aspirations? In this episode of Life on Pause , seven young adult cancer survivors share their personal experiences of having their lives disrupted by cancer during pivo...
Nov. 26, 2024
Cancer, Weight Changes, and Self-Image: A Survivor’s Perspective
In this candid bonus episode of Life on Pause , young adults share their personal experiences with body image during and after cancer treatment. Through heartfelt stories, they explore the challenges of rapid weight changes, ...
Nov. 19, 2024
Unforgettable Smells: Cancer Survivors Share Sensory Triggers
In this bonus episode of Life on Pause , young adult cancer survivors open up about the powerful sensory triggers that bring back memories of their cancer treatment. From the sharp scent of hand sanitizer to the saline flushe...
Nov. 12, 2024
Sweet and Salty: How Cancer Changes Your Relationship with Food
In this heartfelt episode of Life on Pause , Corene Parrish and a group of young adult cancer survivors gather to explore the complex relationship between food and cancer. Reflecting on life before, during, and after treatmen...
Oct. 29, 2024
Survivorship Clinics: Facing the Long-Term Side Effects of Cancer
Surviving cancer is only the beginning of the journey. In this episode of Life on Pause, Nathan Smelser, Corene Parrish, and Sammy Szurkowski dive into the emotional and practical challenges of navigating life after cancer. F...
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