E397-Inner Voice:A Heartfelt Chat with Dr.Foojan Zeine & Deb Krier on trying not to die & no matter what, just live

E397 – "Inner Voice: A Heartfelt Chat with Dr. Foojan Zeine." In this episode, Dr. Foojan Zeine chats with Deb Krier, a seasoned entrepreneur with a rich communications, marketing, and public relations background. A Stage 4 triple positive breast cancer survivor (2015) and thyroid cancer survivor (2023), Deb founded **tryingnottodie.LIVE** in 2022 to empower individuals navigating cancer. Through this platform, she inspires others to embrace their inner Warrior, build supportive communities, and amplify their voices. Deb champions resilience, empowerment, and connection as an advocate and speaker, turning struggles into strengths and fostering hope within the cancer community. Her mission is clear: to help others embrace life and defy cancer's impact. www.tryingnottodie.live # 1 on the 20 Best California Mental Health Podcasts list by FeedSpot. https://podcasts.feedspot.com/california_mental_health_podcasts/  Check out my website: www.FoojanZeine.com, www.AwarenessIntegration.com, www.Foojan.com Summary: Deb shared her 9-year journey with breast cancer, starting with a diagnosis of microcalcifications at Stage 0, which progressed to Stage 3 after a biopsy. Despite complications, Deb chose the traditional approach of chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation. She experienced septic shock and other complications but continued working throughout her treatment. Deb's technical diagnosis has now become Stage 4 metastatic triple-positive breast cancer, but it has not recurred in 10 years. She also developed thyroid cancer, which was caught early and treated. Deb emphasized the importance of humor and staying upbeat during her challenging journey. The doctor shares a personal experience from when she was 15 years old, describing a poorly handled medical consultation where she was informed about the possibility of cervical cancer. She reflects on how this and subsequent health scares have shaped her understanding of the emotional process patients go through when facing potential life-threatening diagnoses. The doctor emphasizes the importance of shifting focus from the initial fear of death to concentrating on getting better and moving forward. Deb and Dr. discussed the anxiety and panic associated with cancer diagnoses. They highlighted how cancer can bring about existential questions and change one's perspective on life. Deb shared her personal experience with skin cancer and the anxiety that comes with waiting for test results. They also discussed the challenges healthcare professionals face due to overwork and understaffing. Deb discussed her recent medical experience, including an ultrasound and test results. She expressed concern about a new lesion and sought a needle biopsy, which her endocrinologist initially dismissed. However, after consulting her oncologist, she was referred to another doctor who confirmed the lesion was gone. Deb emphasized the importance of considering her medical history in her care. The discussion focuses on self-advocacy and effective communication for cancer patients. Deb emphasizes avoiding vague responses like "I'm fine" and being more specific about one's condition, especially with medical providers. The conversation also covers the challenges of sharing a cancer diagnosis, including dealing with others' reactions and finding a balance between accepting support and maintaining privacy. Dr. Foojan and Deb stress the importance of tailoring support to each patient's needs, whether physical care or emotional uplift. They advise caregivers to ask specific questions about what help is needed and for patients to be clear about their requirements. Deb and Dr. discussed the emotional and psychological impact of cancer diagnosis and treatment on patients. Deb shared her personal experience of undergoing cancer treatment and how it has changed her outlook on life, emphasizing the importance of self-care and setting boundaries. Dr. highlighted the phenomenon of post-traumatic stress and depression that can occur after surviving a serious illness and the need for patients to understand this process. Both agreed that patients need to be aware of the emotional journey they will go through after treatment and that seeking professional help, such as therapy, can be beneficial in navigating these emotions. Deb shared her initiative called "Trying Not to Die Live," which aims to support individuals and their caregivers going through cancer treatment. She emphasized the importance of living life fully, regardless of duration, and encouraged creating a supportive community for warriors and caregivers. Deb also highlighted the need for different types of support groups, as they can provide hope, share experiences, and offer practical advice.