Young Tongues

In this episode of the Young Tongues Podcast, host Barbara sits down with her friend and fellow Young Tongues original, Molly—an adventurous veterinarian from Kansas. Molly shares her deeply personal journey with tongue cancer, from her initial diagnosis in 2020 to her current experience living with chronic cancer. She opens up about her treatment regimen, emotional challenges, and the crucial role of self-advocacy and social support. Molly highlights the importance of empathy and understanding from loved ones and healthcare providers alike. She also reflects on the power of living in the moment and embracing the time she has. Through her candid and courageous story, Molly offers insight, strength, and encouragement to others navigating life with chronic cancer.

In this episode of the Young Tongues Podcast, Barbara sits down with Rachel Corby, a fellow tongue cancer survivor, to share her powerful story of diagnosis, treatment, and healing. Rachel opens up about receiving her diagnosis shortly after giving birth. She highlights the challenges of undergoing surgery and radiation while caring for two young children. She candidly discusses the physical and emotional toll of treatment, including the impact on her ability to eat and speak, and how she adapted to those changes. Rachel also reflects on the vital support she received from her family and the sense of connection and strength she found through the Young Tongues community. Throughout the conversation, she emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy, shares the lessons cancer has taught her, and describes how her outlook on life has evolved.

In this episode of the Young Tongues Podcast, host Barbara interviews Ben, one of the original members of the peer support group. Ben shares his journey from initial diagnosis of tongue cancer to his extensive treatment and the long-term side effects he has endured. He discusses the moment he realized something was wrong, the process of his diagnosis, and the multitude of treatments he underwent, including the removal of 80% of his tongue and subsequent reconstruction. Ben elaborates on the challenges of radiation, describing the physical and emotional toll it took. He also explores the lasting impact on his speech and how he manages social interactions when people struggle to understand him. Beyond speech, the podcast delves into Ben's challenges with eating and maintaining oral health, especially dealing with painful high-fluoride toothpaste post-radiation. The discussion also covers managing radiation-induced fibrosis in his neck, the importance of ongoing physiotherapy, and pain management strategies. Finally, the episode highlights Ben's active involvement in creative arts and community support, exemplifying his resilience and generous spirit in helping fellow cancer survivors.

In this episode of the Young Tongues Podcast, Barbara speaks with Jarrod from Melbourne, Australia. Jarrod shares his personal story of being diagnosed with tongue cancer at age 35, the challenges he faced during diagnosis, treatment, and recovery, and how a strong medical background and support from family helped him persevere. He underwent extensive surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy, experiencing severe side effects but ultimately emerged stronger, focusing on family and health. Jared now aims to support others by sharing his journey and working with organizations like Head and Neck Cancer Australia. His remarkable recovery and resilience serve as an inspiration for others.

In this episode of the Young Tongues Podcast, host Barbara interviews Janice Koh, a well-known actress and tongue cancer survivor. Janice shares her personal journey, from her diagnosis in July 2022 and the impact it had on her life and career, to her treatment and recovery process. She highlights the emotional and physical challenges she faced, including multiple surgeries and chemo-radiation, and speaks about the importance of a robust support system and maintaining a sense of agency. Janice also discusses her return to the stage, the need for new skills, and the psychological adjustments required. She reflects on her identity post-diagnosis and shares her hopes for the future, emphasizing the importance of living in the present and embracing life's uncertainties.

In this episode of the Young Tongues Podcast, Barbara sits down with Joe Butler, who shares his inspiring journey 13 years after being diagnosed with tongue cancer. Diagnosed at the age of 27 during a routine dental checkup, Joe discusses the shock of his diagnosis, the rigorous treatments of surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy, and the emotional and physical challenges he faced. Now a father of four and an ambassador for the Mouth Cancer Foundation, Joe reflects on his recovery, the importance of healthcare professional awareness, and his hopes for increased cancer detection and support for future patients. He also touches on the long-term side effects he manages and the vital role his personal support system played in his recovery.

In this episode of the Young Tongues Podcast, Barbara welcomes back fellow Young Tongue Mus. Mus shares an update on his cancer journey, detailing the progression of his symptoms, diagnosis, and the treatments he's undergoing, including immunotherapy and participation in a clinical trial. Despite setbacks and complications, Mus remains determined to maintain a normal life, including celebrating his big birthday with a grand party. Barbara and Mus also discuss the importance of community support, self-advocacy in medical settings, and the shifting dynamics with friends and family in light of a chronic cancer diagnosis. The episode highlights the significance of advancements in cancer treatment and the collective power of patient communities.

In this episode of the Young Tongues podcast, host Barbara interviews Lauren, a member of their community. Lauren, a 39-year-old mother of three from Virginia, shares her journey with tongue cancer. Diagnosed in late 2021 after initially thinking she had an ear infection, Lauren details her painful experiences, multiple surgeries, and the severe challenges posed by radiation and chemotherapy. Despite these hardships, she talks about finding moments of joy and support through community and family. Lauren also highlights the emotional and ongoing physical impacts of her treatment, including dry mouth and loss of taste. The conversation delves deep into the personal and emotional toll of cancer, while offering insights and hope to others facing similar struggles.