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Life on Pause

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

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 flush…
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 treatme…
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. …
Oct. 22, 2024

The Real and Raw Side of Friendships During Cancer

Navigating a cancer diagnosis as a teenager is challenging, but the support of friends can make a world of difference. In this episode of Life on Pause, we hear personal stories from Corene Parrish, Nathan Smelsar, and Sammy…
Oct. 15, 2024

Real Stories of Young Cancer Survivors: Balancing School and Treatment

Returning to school after a cancer diagnosis can be an overwhelming challenge, filled with unique hurdles and unexpected moments. In this episode of Life On Pause, young adult cancer survivors Sammy, Nathan, and Corene share…