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Cancer as a Teacher: Nutrition, Advocacy, and Hope with Alison Tierney
What if your diagnosis wasn’t just a setback, but also your teacher? Can food really help during — and after — cancer treatment? And how do you balance science, lifestyle, and self-advocacy when the stakes are life and death?
In this heartfelt episode of Ask the Patient Advocate Podcast, Dr. Elena Borrelli welcomes Alison Tierney, a registered dietitian, board-certified oncology nutrition specialist, and breast cancer survivor. Alison shares her journey through PCOS, infertility, and cancer — and how those experiences reshaped her approach to patient care and nutrition.
Together, they explore:
✔️ How lifestyle and nutrition can support cancer treatment and survivorship
✔️ The role of self-advocacy in early detection and better outcomes
✔️ Why “adding before subtracting” is the key to sustainable nutrition changes
✔️ How cancer can transform priorities, boundaries, and quality of life
✔️ Practical first steps for anyone feeling overwhelmed by a diagnosis
Alison’s story is one of resilience, evidence-based care, and hope. Whether you’re a patient, a caregiver, or simply looking to take control of your health, this conversation offers guidance, encouragement, and inspiration to face challenges with clarity and strength.
Listen to the next episode of "Ask the Patient Advocate" as we continue to empower you with insights and strategies for navigating your healthcare journey with confidence.
If you have questions or topics you'd like us to explore, don't hesitate to reach out to us at advocate@pathwaypa.com. Remember, with the right advocate by your side, managing your health becomes a journey of empowerment and clarity.
For personalized assistance and support, reach out to us and discover how we can help you navigate your path to better health. Call us at (947) 517-8395
Connect with Alison Tierney:
https://wholesomellc.com/about-alison
https://www.facebook.com/wholesomellc
https://www.instagram.com/wholesomellc/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/alison-tierney-ms-rd-cd-cso/https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQKWzWYqOwCXy-7zSveduPA
Connect with Dr. Elena Borrelli:
Instagram: @pathwaypadvocates
Facebook: Pathway Patient Advocates
Youtube: Pathway Patient Advocates
Tiktok: Pathway Patient Advocates
LinkedIn: Pathway Patient Advocates
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70. Navigating Diabetes
12:24||Season 1, Ep. 70Are you or someone you love navigating diabetes during the holidays? Wondering how to enjoy the season without feeling overwhelmed, restricted, or stressed about your health?You’re not alone — and this episode is here to support you.In this Health for the Holidays episode of the Ask the Patient Advocate Podcast, Dr. Elena Borrelli and co-host Christine discuss the unique challenges that come with managing diabetes during a season filled with gatherings, traditions, and — of course — endless holiday food.Whether you or a loved one is newly diagnosed or working to stay balanced throughout the season, this conversation offers practical guidance, emotional support, and empowering tools to help you stay in control without missing the moments that matter.💙 Inside this episode, you’ll learn:Why the holidays can feel especially overwhelming after a diabetes diagnosisHow to plan ahead so you can enjoy gatherings without stressWhat to include in a simple emergency plan for unexpected blood sugar changesHow to navigate setbacks with grace (because nobody is perfect!)Ways to stay present, joyful, and connected while prioritizing your healthHow a private patient advocate can help you coordinate care, build a plan, and stay supportedThis episode is filled with compassion, practical insights, and reminders that you can enjoy the holidays while taking care of your health. Balance is possible — and you deserve to celebrate, connect, and feel confident every step of the way.🎧 Tune in now to learn how to take control of your recovery, feel heard, and move forward — one step at a time.Listen to the next episode of "Ask the Patient Advocate" as we continue to empower you with insights and strategies for navigating your healthcare journey with confidence.If you have questions or topics you'd like us to explore, don't hesitate to reach out to us at advocate@pathwaypa.com. Remember, with the right advocate by your side, managing your health becomes a journey of empowerment and clarity.For personalized assistance and support, reach out to us and discover how we can help you navigate your path to better health. Call us at (947) 517-8395Take control of your healthcare journey with confidence.✨ Enroll today in our Patient Advocacy Course and learn how to speak up, stay organized, and make informed decisions about your care — or your loved one’s.👉 Visit https://pathwaypa.com/pathwaycourses/ to get started.Connect with Dr. Elena Borrelli:Instagram: @pathwaypadvocatesFacebook: Pathway Patient AdvocatesYoutube: Pathway Patient AdvocatesTiktok: Pathway Patient AdvocatesLinkedIn: Pathway Patient Advocatespathwaypa.com
69. Integrating Faith Into Medicine
08:30||Season 1, Ep. 69Can Faith and Medicine Coexist?When faced with a challenging medical journey, many people wrestle with questions like: Can you believe in both faith and science? or How can faith provide strength when medical reports seem hopeless?In this enlightening episode of Ask the Patient Advocate Podcast, Dr. Elena Borrelli and Christine delve into the powerful connection between faith and medicine. They discuss how faith can provide emotional clarity and resilience during medical crises, share heartwarming stories like Lori's, and offer practical advice for integrating faith into your healthcare journey.Whether you’re searching for hope, guidance, or ways to balance faith and medical advice, this episode is for you. Tune in to discover how faith and medicine together can empower and support you through life's toughest challenges.Tune in to the next episode of "Ask the Patient Advocate" as we continue to empower you with insights and strategies for navigating your healthcare journey with confidence.If you have questions or topics you'd like us to explore, don't hesitate to reach out to us at advocate@pathwaypa.com. Remember, with the right advocate by your side, managing your health becomes a journey of empowerment and clarity.For personalized assistance and support, reach out to us and discover how we can help you navigate your path to better health. Call us at (947) 517-8395Connect with Dr. Elena Borrelli:Instagram: @pathwaypadvocatesFacebook: Pathway Patient AdvocatesYoutube: Pathway Patient AdvocatesTiktok: Pathway Patient AdvocatesLinkedIn: Pathway Patient Advocatespathwaypa.com
68. Prioritizing Your Mental Health
06:47||Season 1, Ep. 68Are you feeling overwhelmed by the holidays? Struggling to balance the joy of the season with the stress that comes along with it?You’re not alone — and your mental health matters, especially during this time of year.In this Health for the Holidays episode of Ask the Patient Advocate Podcast, Dr. Elena Borrelli and co-host Christine dive deep into the importance of prioritizing mental health during the holidays — a season that can bring both joy and emotional exhaustion.From managing feelings of loneliness or burnout to finding peace amid chaos, this episode offers simple, actionable ways to care for your emotional well-being. You’ll learn how gratitude, connection, and rest can transform your mindset, and how support from a private patient advocate can help ease the stress of managing care during this busy season.Because taking care of your mind is taking care of your body — and you deserve peace, presence, and joy this holiday season.💙 Listen now to learn:Why mental health challenges often increase during the holidaysHow to manage emotional overwhelm while balancing medical care and family demandsPractical, gentle ways to nurture your mind and bodyHow private patient advocates can lighten your load and help you focus on what truly matters🎧 Tune in now to learn how to take control of your recovery, feel heard, and move forward — one step at a time.Listen to the next episode of "Ask the Patient Advocate" as we continue to empower you with insights and strategies for navigating your healthcare journey with confidence.If you have questions or topics you'd like us to explore, don't hesitate to reach out to us at advocate@pathwaypa.com. Remember, with the right advocate by your side, managing your health becomes a journey of empowerment and clarity.For personalized assistance and support, reach out to us and discover how we can help you navigate your path to better health. Call us at (947) 517-8395Take control of your healthcare journey with confidence.✨ Enroll today in our Patient Advocacy Course and learn how to speak up, stay organized, and make informed decisions about your care — or your loved one’s.👉 Visit https://pathwaypa.com/pathwaycourses/ to get started.Connect with Dr. Elena Borrelli:Instagram: @pathwaypadvocatesFacebook: Pathway Patient AdvocatesYoutube: Pathway Patient AdvocatesTiktok: Pathway Patient AdvocatesLinkedIn: Pathway Patient Advocatespathwaypa.com
67. Enjoying the Season When Your Loved One is in the Hospital
11:06||Season 1, Ep. 67Have you ever spent the holidays worrying about a loved one in the hospital?Do you wonder how to bring joy, connection, and meaning to a season that suddenly feels heavy or uncertain?And how do you take care of yourself while caring for someone else?In this heartfelt episode of Ask the Patient Advocate Podcast, Dr. Elena Borrelli and co-host Christine continue the Health for the Holidays series with an honest and uplifting conversation about finding comfort and connection when a loved one is hospitalized during the holidays.They share emotional insights, real-world advice, and practical tips for making the most of this season — even when things don’t go as planned. From simple gestures that can brighten a hospital room to the vital role of private patient advocates in easing stress and managing care, this episode is filled with compassion, hope, and heart.🎄 In This Episode, You’ll Learn:✔️ How to support a loved one in the hospital during the holidays✔️ Small but meaningful ways to bring joy and comfort✔️ The emotional toll of caregiving — and how to practice self-care✔️ How a private patient advocate can help families focus on love, not logistics✔️ Why redefining holiday traditions can bring new meaning and peaceWhether you’re spending this season by a hospital bed, balancing caregiving with family life, or simply looking for perspective, this conversation is a beautiful reminder that connection matters more than perfection.Take a breath, grab a warm drink, and join us for a thoughtful episode that celebrates care, compassion, and the power of being present — even in the hardest moments.🎧 Tune in now to learn how to take control of your recovery, feel heard, and move forward — one step at a time.Listen to the next episode of "Ask the Patient Advocate" as we continue to empower you with insights and strategies for navigating your healthcare journey with confidence.If you have questions or topics you'd like us to explore, don't hesitate to reach out to us at advocate@pathwaypa.com. Remember, with the right advocate by your side, managing your health becomes a journey of empowerment and clarity.For personalized assistance and support, reach out to us and discover how we can help you navigate your path to better health. Call us at (947) 517-8395Take control of your healthcare journey with confidence.✨ Enroll today in our Patient Advocacy Course and learn how to speak up, stay organized, and make informed decisions about your care — or your loved one’s.👉 Visit https://pathwaypa.com/pathwaycourses/ to get started.Connect with Dr. Elena Borrelli:Instagram: @pathwaypadvocatesFacebook: Pathway Patient AdvocatesYoutube: Pathway Patient AdvocatesTiktok: Pathway Patient AdvocatesLinkedIn: Pathway Patient Advocatespathwaypa.com
66. Start Advocating For Yourself or a Loved One
14:35||Season 1, Ep. 66Have you ever left a doctor’s office feeling unheard or confused? Do you wish you knew how to ask the right questions — or even what your rights are as a patient? What if you could learn the skills to advocate for yourself or someone you love, confidently and clearly?In this special episode of Ask the Patient Advocate Podcast, Dr. Elena Borrelli and co-host Christine unveil something truly exciting — the launch of Pathway Patient Advocates’ brand new Patient Advocacy Course! This course was created for anyone navigating the healthcare system, caring for a loved one, or dreaming of becoming a professional advocate.Join Dr. Borrelli and Christine as they discuss: ✔️ Why self-advocacy matters (and how it can change your care) ✔️ The most common moments when speaking up makes all the difference ✔️ How to stay organized with tools and forms designed just for you ✔️ Tips for managing appointments, test results, and insurance claims ✔️ How this course helps even the least tech-savvy learners succeedThis isn’t just a course — it’s a movement to ensure every voice is heard and every patient feels empowered. Whether you’re facing a diagnosis, supporting a loved one, or simply want to feel more in control of your health, this series will give you the knowledge, tools, and confidence to take the lead in your own care.🎧 Tune in now to learn how to take control of your recovery, feel heard, and move forward — one step at a time.Listen to the next episode of "Ask the Patient Advocate" as we continue to empower you with insights and strategies for navigating your healthcare journey with confidence.If you have questions or topics you'd like us to explore, don't hesitate to reach out to us at advocate@pathwaypa.com. Remember, with the right advocate by your side, managing your health becomes a journey of empowerment and clarity.For personalized assistance and support, reach out to us and discover how we can help you navigate your path to better health. Call us at (947) 517-8395Sign up and get the course >> https://pathwaypa.com/pathwaycourses/Connect with Dr. Elena Borrelli:Instagram: @pathwaypadvocatesFacebook: Pathway Patient AdvocatesYoutube: Pathway Patient AdvocatesTiktok: Pathway Patient AdvocatesLinkedIn: Pathway Patient Advocatespathwaypa.com
64. Living with the ME/CFS, Long COVID, and the Power of Advocacy with Julie Rehmeyer
18:26||Season 1, Ep. 64What happens when science doesn’t have the answers? How do you navigate an illness that’s invisible, misunderstood, and often dismissed? And what does hope look like when the medical system can’t keep up with your reality?In this inspiring episode of Ask the Patient Advocate Podcast, Dr. Elena Borrelli sits down with award-winning journalist and author Julie Rehmeyer, whose memoir Through the Shadowlands chronicles her journey with ME/CFS (chronic fatigue syndrome). Julie shares how her trust in science was shaken when she became the patient instead of the reporter — and what she’s learned about resilience, advocacy, and finding meaning in the midst of uncertainty.Together, they discuss: ✔️ The emotional toll of living with an invisible illness ✔️ Why belief, time, and curiosity from doctors matter so deeply ✔️ The power of patient communities in driving knowledge and support ✔️ How science and lived experience can (and must) work together ✔️ Why there is real hope for the future of ME/CFS, long COVID, and beyondThis is more than a conversation about illness — it’s about humanity, perseverance, and the ways we can support one another when medicine doesn’t yet have all the answers.Listen to the next episode of "Ask the Patient Advocate" as we continue to empower you with insights and strategies for navigating your healthcare journey with confidence.If you have questions or topics you'd like us to explore, don't hesitate to reach out to us at advocate@pathwaypa.com. Remember, with the right advocate by your side, managing your health becomes a journey of empowerment and clarity.For personalized assistance and support, reach out to us and discover how we can help you navigate your path to better health. Call us at (947) 517-8395Connect with Julie:https://www.julierehmeyer.com/https://www.facebook.com/julierehmeyerauthor/https://x.com/julierehmeyerConnect with Dr. Elena Borrelli:Instagram: @pathwaypadvocatesFacebook: Pathway Patient AdvocatesYoutube: Pathway Patient AdvocatesTiktok: Pathway Patient AdvocatesLinkedIn: Pathway Patient Advocatespathwaypa.com
63. Premiums. Deductibles. Co-insurances. Co-Payments. Out-of-pocket maximum.
07:39||Season 1, Ep. 63Do words like deductible, copay, or out-of-pocket maximum leave you scratching your head? Have you ever wondered why you’re still getting bills even after meeting your deductible? Or why your premiums don’t necessarily cover everything?If so, you’re not alone — and this episode is for you.In this episode of Ask the Patient Advocate Podcast, Dr. Elena Borelli and Christine break down the confusing world of medical billing and health insurance in plain, simple language. From premiums to copays to coinsurance, you’ll learn what these terms really mean, how they affect your bills, and what to look for when choosing a health plan.🔍 What You’ll Learn:✔️ The difference between premiums, deductibles, copays, and coinsurance✔️ What “out-of-pocket maximum” really means (and why it’s not as scary as it looks)✔️ Why you might still get bills even after meeting your deductible✔️ How premiums and deductibles balance each other out✔️ How patient advocates can help you pick the right plan and avoid costly mistakesBy the end, you’ll feel more confident reading your medical bills — and more empowered to make the best insurance choices for yourself and your family.🎧 Tune in now to learn how to take control of your recovery, feel heard, and move forward — one step at a time.Listen to the next episode of "Ask the Patient Advocate" as we continue to empower you with insights and strategies for navigating your healthcare journey with confidence.If you have questions or topics you'd like us to explore, don't hesitate to reach out to us at advocate@pathwaypa.com. Remember, with the right advocate by your side, managing your health becomes a journey of empowerment and clarity.For personalized assistance and support, reach out to us and discover how we can help you navigate your path to better health. Call us at (947) 517-8395Connect with Dr. Elena Borrelli:Instagram: @pathwaypadvocatesFacebook: Pathway Patient AdvocatesYoutube: Pathway Patient AdvocatesTiktok: Pathway Patient AdvocatesLinkedIn: Pathway Patient Advocatespathwaypa.com
62. Life After Long COVID: Anita’s Story of Resilience & Advocacy
14:35||Season 1, Ep. 62What happens when your life changes overnight? How do you cope when long COVID or sudden disability reshapes everything you thought your future would look like? And most importantly, how do you advocate for yourself when doctors, family, or even you struggle to understand what’s happening?In this deeply personal episode of Ask the Patient Advocate Podcast, Dr. Elena Borrelli sits down with Anita Widowson, a content creator, advocate, and former radio presenter whose life was transformed after a COVID-19 infection in 2022. From denial and loss to finding purpose and community, Anita shares the raw truth about navigating long COVID, advocating for yourself in a system that doesn’t always listen, and rebuilding identity when your body and mind no longer work the way they used to.🔍 What You’ll Learn:✔️ How to process sudden changes in health and identity✔️ Strategies for being taken seriously by medical professionals✔️ The hidden toll of chronic illness on mental health—and how to get help✔️ Why community, advocacy, and accessible content matter so much✔️ Practical advice for anyone just beginning their chronic illness journeyAnita’s story is not just about struggle—it’s about resilience, advocacy, and turning pain into purpose. Whether you’re living with long COVID, supporting someone who is, or simply want to better understand the challenges of invisible illness, this episode will leave you informed, inspired, and empowered.Listen to the next episode of "Ask the Patient Advocate" as we continue to empower you with insights and strategies for navigating your healthcare journey with confidence.If you have questions or topics you'd like us to explore, don't hesitate to reach out to us at advocate@pathwaypa.com. Remember, with the right advocate by your side, managing your health becomes a journey of empowerment and clarity.For personalized assistance and support, reach out to us and discover how we can help you navigate your path to better health. Call us at (947) 517-8395Connect with Anita:https://www.instagram.com/chronicallyanita/Connect with Dr. Elena Borrelli:Instagram: @pathwaypadvocatesFacebook: Pathway Patient AdvocatesYoutube: Pathway Patient AdvocatesTiktok: Pathway Patient AdvocatesLinkedIn: Pathway Patient Advocatespathwaypa.com