Someone Like Me – Your Cancer Community Podcast

Michaela and Dean met as teenagers and spent fourteen years growing up together, building a life full of love, laughter, and unforgettable memories. Together, they created a beautiful family with their little girl, Sloan.
Everything changed when Dean began experiencing unusual twitching in his face and neck. At first, it seemed minor. But the episodes quickly escalated into moments of panic and fear, followed by a terrifying incident on the road that Dean somehow survived. As the symptoms continued, Michaela rushed him to hospital, beginning a frightening journey filled with uncertainty.
Dean was transferred to Beaumont and at just 31 years of age, he was diagnosed with Stage 4 Glioblastoma, an aggressive and devastating form of brain cancer.
Despite every effort, endless hope, and unwavering love, Dean sadly passed away in May 2025
In this deeply emotional episode, Michaela courageously takes us back through the early warning signs, the chaos in A&E, the long wait for answers, the life changing diagnosis, and the final months of Dean’s life. Her honesty, strength, and devotion as a young wife and mum are extraordinary. Michaela’s bravery in honouring Dean’s memory will stay with every listener long after the episode ends.
https://www.instagram.com/deandunphyfoundation?hl=en
brain cancer, brain tumour, glioma, glioblastoma (GBM), chemotherapy, radiotherapy, neurosurgery, seizures, neurological symptoms, cognitive changes, steroid treatment, tumour progression, palliative care, end-of-life care, caregiver support, family impact, patient journey, awareness

https://www.instagram.com/someonelikeme_cancerapp/

In this December mini-episode, Vanessa talks about why this month can feel heavier, especially for those living with cancer, survivors, and anyone grieving someone they love.
She reflects on her own Christmas Eve diagnosis, childhood memories, the ache of missing her mam, and that strange feeling when the world is buzzing with festive energy but you don’t feel any of it.
Vanessa speaks honestly about the loneliness that can show up in December, the five stages of grief that many people still move through even long after treatment ends, and the emotional “rollercoaster” of scans, fear, hope, and healing.
This episode is for anyone who is struggling, surviving, or just trying to get through the days.
Vanessa also gives a glimpse into Season 2 of the podcast and thanks this growing community for helping make cancer a little less lonely.
https://www.instagram.com/someonelikeme_cancerapp/

In this episode, Vanessa speaks with Ziva Cussen, who was diagnosed with stage four breast cancer at just twenty one years of age. Ziva gives an honest and deeply moving insight into her life and the reality of what she continues to face every single day.
Ziva is currently undergoing treatment for cancer that has spread to her brain, and she continues to face everything with incredible honesty and strength. If you are listening to this episode, please keep Ziva in your thoughts and send her your warmth, healing, and positive energy as she continues her journey.
Takeaways
Ziva discovered a lump in her breast and sought medical advice.
Young patients often face delays in diagnosis due to assumptions about age.
Trusting one's instincts is crucial in seeking medical attention.
Receiving a cancer diagnosis can feel surreal and shocking.
Treatment plans can be complex and require adjustments over time.
Coping with side effects is a significant part of the cancer journey.
Finding joy in small moments is essential for mental health.
Community support plays a vital role in navigating cancer.
Hope and positivity are crucial for resilience during treatment.
Sharing experiences can help others feel less alone in their journeys.
Sound Bites

"It just doesn't feel real, you know?"
"You just have to have the hope there."
"Hope is what keeps you going."
Chapters

00:00
Introduction to Ziva's Journey
02:38
The Discovery of Cancer
05:20
The Waiting Game: Delays in Diagnosis
08:18
The Shock of Diagnosis
11:13
Understanding Stage Four Cancer
14:06
Treatment Journey and Challenges
18:35
Facing the Reality of Cancer
20:51
Lessons Learned from Adversity
24:02
Advice for Others on a Similar Journey
29:13
The Importance of Hope and Resilience
Too Young to be Heard 
Ziva Cussen
https://www.instagram.com/someonelikeme_cancerapp/

In this final episode of Season 1, I sit down with Karen Kruger, Avril Tierney, and Niamh Noonan to talk openly about life with breast cancer. We share the shock of diagnosis, the physical and emotional toll of treatment, and what it feels like to face life afterwards. We talk about fear of recurrence, body image, relationships, and the personal choices involved in treatment and surgery. We also explore self-love, coping strategies, and the comfort of connecting with others who truly understand. This honest and supportive conversation reminds anyone going through cancer that they are never alone.
Titles
Navigating the Breast Cancer Journey
Real Stories of Survival and Resilience
The Emotional Rollercoaster of Cancer Diagnosis
Life After Cancer: Healing and Moving Forward
Sound Bites
"It's a massive shock, massive."
"It's like survival guilt."
"You have to rebuild yourself."
"It's a grieving process."
"Let it go, yeah. Yeah."
"Screw you! You know?"
"I'm actually a nicer person."
https://www.instagram.com/someonelikeme_cancerapp/

Demelza shares her incredible journey, having brain surgery in 2017 and facing three cancer diagnoses — thyroid, salivary, and lymph node cancer of the neck. Despite everything she’s been through, she’s now helping others through her own business. Such an inspiring woman, full of strength, courage, and hope. 💚
Takeaways
Demelza was diagnosed with glossopharyngeal neuralgia, leading to severe pain.
She underwent a major surgery to relieve pressure on her nerve.
The pain was so intense that it was referred to as 'suicide pain.'
Demelza's husband played a crucial role in seeking help and support.
After surgery, she faced complications, including vocal cord paralysis.
She was later diagnosed with thyroid cancer, which required urgent treatment.
Demelza sought a second opinion, leading to a successful surgery that preserved her voice.
She was diagnosed again with salivary gland cancer, which was a rare tumor.
Demelza emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy in healthcare.
Her journey highlights the power of resilience and the will to live.
Sound Bites
"It's called the suicide pain."
"I wanted to distract my head."
"I never want to become a victim."
https://www.instagram.com/someonelikeme_cancerapp/