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
May 30, 2025
Drawing Through the Darkness: Maya’s Story of Art & Healing
Maya , a young cancer patient and gifted artist, shares how drawing became her outlet during treatment for acute myeloid leukemia. Inspired by animator Vivienne Medrano, Maya dove into digital art to escape the fear and isola...
May 9, 2025
“I Thought I Was Dying” – Maya on Cancer, Panic Attacks, and Finding Hope
Maya, a 15-year-old high school student, shares the deeply personal story of how her childhood fear of getting cancer became real. Diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia (AML), she takes us through the moment she first felt sy...
May 6, 2025
Preserving Parenthood: Fertility Options for Young Cancer Patients
In this episode of Life on Pause , we explore a critical—but often overlooked—aspect of cancer care: fertility preservation. Joined by Dr. Mindy Christianson, a national expert in reproductive endocrinology from the Cleveland...
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, ...
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