From Cancer Diagnosis to Surgical Menopause| S4E1 TTOM

Canadian Radio host Charlie DeSantis was 42 when breast cancer and the BRCA gene threw her into surgical menopause overnight. No gradual perimenopause. No hormone therapy options. Just instant hot flashes that soaked the bed and a body she didn't recognize.

This conversation is raw, funny, and painfully relatable, whether you're navigating surgical menopause, breast cancer, or just the chaos of midlife body changes.

What We Cover:

✅ BRCA gene testing and the double mastectomy decision

✅ Surgical menopause: "like a truck hitting you"

✅ New Non-hormonal menopause hot flash medications (and the potential cost barriers)

✅ Struggling with Body changes: weight gain, thigh gaps, and mourning your "old-self"

✅ Gilda's Club: Free cancer support

✅ Why "just be grateful to be alive" invalidates real struggles

Note: Content in this episode is meant for educational and awareness purposes. It does not replace medical or professional advice from your healthcare providers.

MENTIONED RESOURCES: Gilda's Club Simcoe Muskoka (free cancer support): you can look for Gilda’s near you https://www.gildasclubsimcoemuskoka.org

New non-hormonal menopause medication to treat vasomotor symptoms (night sweats and hot flashes) for breast cancer survivors (ask your oncologist)