From Misdiagnosis to Advocacy: Deb’s UTUC Journey
In this powerful episode of Bladder Cancer Matters, host Rick Bangs talks with Deb Wells, a survivor of high-grade upper tract urothelial cancer (UTUC), who shares her emotional and eye-opening journey to diagnosis and treatment. After months of misdiagnoses and repeated ER visits, Deb finally learned the truth behind her symptoms—an experience that will resonate with many bladder cancer patients, especially women. She opens up about the importance of being an informed patient, finding the right medical team, and leaning on a support system when facing uncertainty. Deb’s story is both inspiring and practical, filled with advice for navigating complex medical decisions, coping with treatment side effects, and embracing life during and after cancer. If you or someone you love has been impacted by bladder or upper tract urothelial cancer, this episode offers hope, clarity, and a powerful reminder that no one has to face this journey alone. Don’t miss this honest and uplifting conversation.
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24:27
Saving the Bladder: Risks, Realities, and Rare Exceptions
Can you really just take out part of the bladder? It’s one of the most common questions bladder cancer surgeons hear—and in this episode of Bladder Cancer Matters, host Rick Bangs sits down with renowned urologic oncologist Dr. John Gore to break it all down. From TURBTs to partial cystectomies, they explore when bladder-sparing approaches are appropriate, what the real risks and benefits are, and how treatment choices affect long-term outcomes. Whether you’re a patient, caregiver, or advocate, this episode is packed with the kind of honest, expert insight that can help you make more informed decisions.
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27:42
Prehab for Bladder Cancer Patients Explained
Can personalized exercise improve recovery after bladder cancer surgery? In our latest Bladder Cancer Matters podcast, host Rick Bangs talks with Dr. Sarah Psutka about her groundbreaking BCAN-funded clinical trial, Get Moving. This innovative study explores how tailored, app-based exercise programs can help patients undergoing major surgery for bladder or upper tract urothelial cancer recover faster and feel better. From reducing frailty to rebuilding strength at home using just a smartphone and a Fitbit, this episode dives deep into the science—and heart—behind helping patients thrive.
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50:23
Meet BCAN's New CEO: Meri-Margaret Deoudes
🎙 Meet Meri-Margaret Deoudes, BCAN’s new CEO! In this interesting episode of Bladder Cancer Matters, Meri-Margaret shares what drew her to BCAN, her surprising personal connection to bladder cancer, and the incredible warmth and strength she’s already found in the community. With over 25 years of nonprofit leadership, she's stepping into this role with passion, purpose, and a deep commitment to patients as her guiding light. 💙 Tune in as she and host Rick Bangs talk about BCAN’s exciting 20th anniversary, plans for future growth, and how the organization is expanding support for caregivers, women, veterans, and young-onset patients. Whether you're a survivor, caregiver, advocate, or simply part of the BCAN family, you won’t want to miss this inspiring conversation. Listen now!
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23:50
Fran Curtis: Fighting Bladder Cancer, Inspiring Others
Bladder cancer survivor Fran Curtis shares her powerful journey on Bladder Cancer Matters, discussing her experience with ADSTILADRIN® (nadofaragene firadenovec-vncg), the impact of early detection, and her advocacy work with BCAN. Diagnosed with non-muscle invasive bladder cancer after subtle urinary changes, Fran highlights the importance of listening to your body, seeking the best care, and finding hope through community support. Released during International Women's History Month, this episode underscores the need for gender equity in healthcare. Tune in to hear Fran’s inspiring story and insights! IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION Who should not receive ADSTILADRIN? Do not receive ADSTILADRIN if you have a sensitivity to interferon alfa or any of its components. What is the most important information I should know about ADSTILADRIN? Individuals who are immunosuppressed or immune-deficient should not prepare, administer, receive, or come into contact with ADSTILADRIN. What should I tell my healthcare provider? Tell your doctor about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. What are the possible side effects of ADSTILADRIN? The most common side effects of ADSTILADRIN include: Urinary discharge, fatigue, bladder spasm, urgency to urinate, and blood in your urine. These are not all the possible side effects of ADSTILADRIN. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to FDA. Visit www.FDA.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-332-1088. You may also contact Ferring Pharmaceuticals at 1-888-FERRING. What other information should I know about using ADSTILADRIN? For 2 days following treatment, voided urine should be disinfected for 15 minutes with an equal volume of bleach before flushing. For more important information, call 1-888-337-7464. Please see full Prescribing Information.
Bladder Cancer Matters is the podcast for, by and about the bladder cancer community. Host Rick Bangs interviews interesting guests from the bladder cancer community, including patients, survivors, advocates, medical professionals, researchers, caregivers and more. It is brought to you by the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network.
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