In this heartfelt and deeply personal episode of the CROC Podcast, Dr. E and Angel Santana explore a question many people never stop to consider:

How does a cancer survivor celebrate their birthday?

What begins as a conversation about birthday traditions quickly becomes something far more meaningful. Through the story of a survivor named “Mary Ann,” Dr. E reflects on how cancer changes a person’s relationship with time, milestones, and the meaning behind another year of life.

For many survivors, birthdays are no longer just about cake, candles, gifts, or parties. They become checkpoints — moments of reflection, gratitude, uncertainty, healing, and hope.

Together, Angel and Dr. E discuss the emotional weight birthdays can carry after diagnosis, the pressure survivors sometimes feel to “celebrate,” and why it’s okay for that day to look different than it once did.

Most importantly, this episode reminds us that after cancer, it’s no longer about presents…

It’s about presence.

Presence with loved ones.
Presence in another sunrise.
Presence in moments once feared lost forever.

This powerful conversation is a reminder that every extra candle tells a story of courage, resilience, and life itself.

#CROCPodcast
#CancerSurvivor
#SurvivorThrivers
#BirthdayAfterCancer
#ItsAboutPresence
#CancerAwareness
#LifeAfterCancer
#HopeAndHealing
#MotivationalPodcast
#CancerSupport
#StrongerTogether
#StillHere
#GratefulHeart
#OneMoreYear
#PresenceOverPresents
#Survivorship
#InspirationDaily
#MentalHealthMatters
#KeepFighting
#CrocNation

In this powerful rewind episode of the CROC Podcast, Angel and Dr. E continue their journey of self-discovery by taking a deeper look at one of the most challenging steps toward growth, confronting our past.

Because the truth is, who we are today is often shaped by where we’ve been.

From childhood experiences to life-altering moments, this episode encourages listeners to reflect on the events, environments, and relationships that have influenced their identity. With honesty and compassion, Angel and Dr. E explore how unresolved experiences can shape our thoughts, behaviors, and self-worth and how facing those truths can open the door to healing and transformation.

This conversation isn’t about blame, it’s about awareness. It’s about allowing yourself to understand your story so you can begin writing the next chapter with intention.

Because it’s never too late to discover who you are… and become who you’re meant to be.

#CROCPodcast
#CancerSurvivor
#SurvivorThrivers
#MentalHealthMatters
#SelfAwareness
#PersonalGrowth
#HealingJourney
#ConfrontYourPast
#MotivationDaily
#PodcastLife
#Inspiration
#GrowthMindset
#YouAreNotAlone
#FaithAndStrength
#KeepFighting
#StrongerTogether
#CrocNation
#MindsetShift
#EmotionalHealing
#LifeAfterCancer

"Hello everyone, and welcome to a very special primetime edition of the CROC Podcast — Citizens Reunited to Overcome Cancer.

As we get closer to Mother’s Day, we wanted to take a moment to reflect, honor, and celebrate something incredibly powerful… a mother’s love.

So today, we’re bringing you a special rewind episode —
Season 1, Episode 10: A Mother’s Love.

In this episode, we begin a new and meaningful module centered around the strength, sacrifice, and unwavering support that mothers provide… especially in the face of cancer.

We are also honored to feature a very special guest, Michael John Benzaia, from the Hudson Valley, New York — an actor with roots from Sicily, Spain, and Jordan, who has appeared alongside some of the industry’s biggest names.

This is a story about love, resilience, and the kind of strength that only a mother can give.

Let’s take a step back… and experience A Mother’s Love."

Today, we’re taking a much-needed day off. Dr. E needs one… and as you can probably hear in my voice, I’m a little under the weather myself.

So instead of going silent, we wanted to do something special for you.

We’re bringing you a bonus double episode week.

Today, we’re airing a rewind — our Special Labor Day episode, honoring all of our incredible Survivor/Thrivers who continue to work through the mental and physical challenges of cancer treatment.

And that’s not all… we’ve got a brand-new bonus episode dropping this Wednesday — and trust me, you don’t want to miss it.

Let’s get into today’s episode."

Through a real-life case, we meet Robert, a patient facing advanced cancer whose care became fragmented at a critical moment. As uncertainty grows and leadership disappears, Dr. E is forced into an uncomfortable position: step beyond his role or allow the system to fail.

This episode dives deep into the ethical, emotional, and professional challenges of confronting a colleague who is not doing the right thing — and what it truly means to advocate for a patient when it matters most.

From navigating broken systems to redefining responsibility, this conversation is a wake-up call for medical professionals and a powerful reminder for patients and families: your care depends on more than knowledge — it depends on presence.

Because at the end of the day, patients aren’t asking who’s in charge…
they’re asking one simple question:
“Is someone here for me?”

What happens when the visits finally end?

In this powerful and deeply emotional episode of The CROC Podcast: Citizens Reunited to Overcome Cancer, we explore a milestone that every cancer survivor hopes to reach—but few are truly prepared for: graduation from oncology care.

Featuring cancer thriver, advocate, and cancer doula Talaya Dendy, this conversation goes beyond celebration. Together, we unpack the complex emotions that come with transitioning from patient to survivor—the joy, the uncertainty, the fear of recurrence, and the quiet strength it takes to move forward without the regular reassurance of an oncology team.

Dr. Eanelli shares the physician’s perspective on this unique and deeply personal relationship, while Talaya opens up about her 14-year journey, the decision to step away from her oncologist, and the tools—like a survivorship care plan—that helped her confidently step into this next chapter.

This episode is a reminder that survivorship is not just about finishing treatment—it’s about rediscovering life, identity, and purpose beyond cancer.

Whether you are a survivor, caregiver, or someone walking alongside a loved one, this conversation will leave you encouraged, informed, and inspired.

Because sometimes, the hardest part isn’t surviving cancer…
It’s learning how to live after it.

#CROCPodcast
#CancerSurvivorship
#LifeAfterCancer
#CancerSupport
#CancerJourney
#CancerAwareness

#WhenTheVisitsEnd
#SurvivorStory
#HopeAfterCancer
#StrongerThanCancer
#HealingJourney
#FaithOverFear

Survivor Advocate. If you are not uplifted and inspired by the end of this podcast, then you are not paying attention!

https://www.ontheotherside.life/

@NCTpodcastfan Navigating Cancer TOGETHER

https://www.ontheotherside.life/navigating-cancer-together-podcast

If you would like to contribute or help 

https://www.ontheotherside.life/services

YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ontheothersidecancerdoula

A survivor’s story becomes a lesson in humility when Dr. E reflects on a patient who challenged his assumptions and changed the way he practices medicine. In The Whisper Before the Scream, the CROC Podcast explores bias, compassion fatigue, and the quiet strength of a survivor whose voice was heard just in time.

This week we’re being preempted… but we didn’t want to leave you without something meaningful.

So today we’re taking you back to a powerful conversation from Season 3, Episode 146 — Making Your Own Decisions: A Tricky Business for Survivor-Thrivers.

Because the moment the word cancer is spoken… suddenly everyone becomes an expert.

Everyone has advice. Everyone has opinions.

But how do you keep your voice, your autonomy, and your peace without starting a civil war with the people trying to support you?

Join Dr. E and me as we talk about finding that balance.

That’s today’s CROC Podcast Throwback, and we’ll see you Wednesday with a brand-new episode."

Dr. E and co-host Angel Santana guide listeners through a five-part journey—the gray zone, inversion, isolation, intersection, and clay feet—using real cases and plain talk to turn clinical data into decisions that match who you are. This is a podcast about shared responsibility, not surrender; about walking beside survivors instead of walking for them.

Tune in to be reassured, to learn how to ask better questions, and to find the courage to make choices that protect both your future and your essence. You won’t be alone on this walk.

Integrating Behavioral Health Into Oncology Treatment Plans 

On a gray bridge, a patient named Kelly nearly plunges into darkness—his crisis invisible to scans, yet as urgent as any surgical emergency. In this episode, Dr. Tom Eanelli and co-host Angel Santana sit with Dr. Cara Bohan to trace the divide between lifesaving oncology care and the mental health support that too often gets left behind.

Through raw stories and clear-eyed science, Dr. Cara Bohan reveals how Protocol Behavioral Health is stitching mental health into the cancer treatment protocol—screening early, checking in during chemo, bolstering caregivers, and stabilizing patients when they spiral. You’ll hear how small acts of care, deep breaths, and coordinated teams can mean the difference between despair and survival.

This is a hopeful, urgent narrative for survivors, families, and clinicians: when we treat body and mind together, we save more than lives—we restore dignity. Listen for practical steps, moving patient stories, and a roadmap toward a future where no survivor falls through the canyon of care.

Over 50% of cancer patients experience psychiatric distress, leading to unnecessary ED visits and worse health outcomes. Protocol's evidence-based interventions enhance quality of life, build resilience, and reduce care disruptions caused by behavioral health challenges.

Website: Oncology-Focused Behavioral Health | Protocol

On a gray bridge, a patient named Kelly nearly plunges into darkness—his crisis invisible to scans, yet as urgent as any surgical emergency. In this episode, Dr. Tom Eanelli and co-host Angel Santana sit with Dr. Cara Bohan to trace the divide between lifesaving oncology care and the mental health support that too often gets left behind.

Through raw stories and clear-eyed science, Dr. Cara Bohan reveals how Protocol Behavioral Health is stitching mental health into the cancer treatment protocol—screening early, checking in during chemo, bolstering caregivers, and stabilizing patients when they spiral. You’ll hear how small acts of care, deep breaths, and coordinated teams can mean the difference between despair and survival.

This is a hopeful, urgent narrative for survivors, families, and clinicians: when we treat body and mind together, we save more than lives—we restore dignity. Listen for practical steps, moving patient stories, and a roadmap toward a future where no survivor falls through the canyon of care.

Over 50% of cancer patients experience psychiatric distress, leading to unnecessary ED visits and worse health outcomes. Protocol's evidence-based interventions enhance quality of life, build resilience, and reduce care disruptions caused by behavioral health challenges.

Website: Oncology-Focused Behavioral Health | Protocol

Today we’re revisiting Season 4, Episode 173, titled New Shoes.

Inspired by the iconic 1946 Life Magazine photo of a young post-war orphan holding a pair of new shoes with overwhelming gratitude, Dr. E takes Angel and the CROC Nation on a powerful journey—sharing a cancer staff member’s act of selflessness that reminds us all to recognize our blessings, even in life’s hardest moments.

This episode is about compassion, perspective, and the quiet miracles that restore hope.

We hope this rewind touches your heart—and don’t worry, we’ll be back next week with an all-new episode featuring a brand-new guest.

Thank you for listening… and let’s rewind.

Then, with the chill biting and the world in grey, a turning point: Dr. E’s hike up Bear Mountain becomes a metaphor for recovery—one deliberate step, one breath, one ray of light at a time. Practical anchors emerge naturally from the narrative: light therapy, gentle movement, daily routines, and social lifelines that transform paralysis into purpose.

The episode closes with a gentle spiritual benediction—grace for the hard days, permission to move at your pace, and a fierce reminder that winter is temporary. This is a short, hopeful guide to carrying light into the dark and reclaiming survivorship as a continuing journey of courage and care.

Summary

In this episode of the Croc Podcast, the hosts delve into the often-daunting experience of meeting an oncologist for the first time. They liken the initial consultation to a first date, filled with nerves and uncertainty, and emphasize the importance of understanding what patients deserve during this critical time. The discussion highlights the need for compassionate care, effective communication, and a supportive environment, urging listeners to advocate for themselves and not settle for less than they deserve in their healthcare experience. The hosts also introduce upcoming guests, including a cancer doula and a healthcare policy expert, promising insightful discussions in future episodes.

Keywords

oncologist appointment, cancer care, patient advocacy, healthcare experience, Croc Podcast

Takeaways

Your first oncology appointment can feel like a first date.
You deserve more than just basic care; advocate for yourself.
The environment of a healthcare facility significantly impacts patient experience.
Compassionate communication is key in patient-doctor relationships.
Don't settle for less; demand the care you deserve.

Titles

Navigating Your First Oncology Appointment: What You Deserve
Meeting Your Oncologist: A Guide to Your First Consultation

Sound bites

"Your first visit with your oncologist is sort of like a first date."
"You deserve a lot more than you actually think."
"If you received everything that I said that you're deserving of, then the answer is yes."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Croc Podcast and Episode Overview
10:22 The First Oncology Appointment: Expectations and Desires
38:15 Empowerment and Advocacy in Cancer Care

That single act becomes a lifeline. With the phone, Charles gathers his family, makes a final decision about care, and says goodbye. The episode traces this intimate arc—setup, tender action, and the powerful, lasting consequences of a small kindness.

Through narrative, research, and reflection, hosts Dr. E and Angel Santana explore how tiny gestures restore dignity, shift culture, and ripple through healthcare. Listen to a story that proves compassion doesn’t need grand gestures—just presence, connection, and a willingness to be human.

Every January, as the ball drops in Times Square, millions of people make promises to themselves to finally change everything at once. And just as often, those resolutions fade, leaving behind frustration, guilt, and added pressure.

For our Survivor/Thrivers, that pressure can be overwhelming.

In this Rewind Episode, Angel and Dr. E revisit the idea of New Year’s resolutions through a healthier, more compassionate lens. Over the next two weeks, they share practical guidance on how to set realistic, meaningful goals—resolutions that are durable, achievable, and rooted in grace rather than stress.

Angels Of Mercy Part 1
Everyone involved in healthcare, whether from the Caretakers or Caregivers prospective, knows the value and irreplaceable necessity of great nursing care.
But what rarely gets noticed are the innumerable acts of compassion that  happen everyday that go unseen and unnoticed; that is until today!
Please join Angel and Dr E give credit to these healthcare superheroes!!!

Join Dr. E and Angel as they recount the extraordinary and inspiring journey of Mary a true survivor. This Christmas special episode delves into Mary's battles with two of the most daunting cancers, exploring themes of hope, courage, and miraculous endurance. Despite overwhelming odds and dire prognoses, Mary defies the grim expectations, embodying strength and faith.

Reflect on the miracles of Christmas as Mary's story becomes a beacon of hope for all cancer Survivors, reminding us that while the battle against disease is tough, the human spirit is tougher. Embrace this heartfelt narrative, which celebrates resilience and the power of never losing faith, even in the face of life's toughest challenges.

They share real cases, explain responsibilities for referring and specialist doctors, and offer five clear rules to improve care: always care, use redundant follow-up systems, choose trustworthy colleagues, advocate for yourself, and keep the primary care physician involved.

The hosts review four common scenarios, discuss why clinicians sometimes engage in this behavior, and offer clear solutions for patients and providers — including how patients can advocate for themselves and how clinicians can communicate professionally, empathetically, and through direct collegial contact.

This episode offers practical insight for practitioners and hopes for survivors—highlighting the podcast’s mission to honor, advocate for, and learn from those living with and beyond cancer.

Hello everyone! We wanted to let you know that this week’s Croc Podcast will be airing on a special new day — Wednesday, November 12th, at 9:00 a.m.

Dr. E has been handling some unexpected administrative duties, so we’ll be postponing today’s episode and rescheduling it for this Wednesday at 9:00 a.m.

We appreciate you're understanding and support! In the meantime, we hope you enjoy the rest of your Sunday—spend it with your family, recharge, and remember:

💚 The Croc Podcast — Citizens Reunited to Overcome Cancer — is not just a podcast.
It’s a movement.

And this week… we’re moving to Wednesday!

• #CancerSurvivor

• #CancerJourney

• #LifeAfterCancer

• #CancerAwareness

• #HealingTogether

• #IBelieveInMiracles

• #JourneyOfHope

• #HopeAndHealing

• #MiracleStories

• #StrengthInHope

• #TheCROCPodcast

• #NotJustAPodcastAMovement

• #SurvivorStories

• #TogetherWeFight

• #CROCCommunity

•  

Hello everyone, this is Angel Santana, co-host and producer of The Croc Podcast. September is Blood Cancer Awareness Month — a time to raise awareness for leukemia, lymphoma, and melanoma and to emphasize education, early detection, and support for those affected.

We don't have a new episode this week, but we'll be back Sunday, September 14 with Dr. E in studio. Stay connected with us on social media and at crocvip.com to learn more about our mission. Thank you, Croc Nation — we're more than a podcast; we're a movement.

If having cancer wasn’t hard enough, between the fear of recurrence and the pain and inconvenience of post-treatment side effects, our brave Survivor/Thrivers also have to traverse the treacherous minefield of possibly getting a secondary tumor.

This week, Angel and Dr. E take a deep dive into this complex and confusing world to bring you the latest data, clarify the risk factors, and provide guidance on what to look for, arming you with the information you need to stay ahead of the potentially devastating consequences of enduring this double whammy.

As we ease into the warmth and light of summer, our dreams and fantasies of packing up and getting “away from it all” begin to take form and come true. We make our plans without worry or consequence.

But our sacred and worthy Survivor/Thrivers, who not only deserve but also need this break, often pass on these life-affirming and necessary vacations.

This week, Angel and Dr. E investigate the reasons why our survivors do not take time for themselves, and the reasons why they not only should, but absolutely must. 

Are you or a loved one facing a diagnosis of bladder cancer, melanoma, or skin cancer? Tune in to this essential episode of Navigating Cancer TOGETHER for expert guidance and compassionate insights. Join host Talaya Dendy as she welcomes back Dr. Thomas Eanelli, a highly respected radiation oncologist based in New York. We also feature Angel Santana, co-host of The CROC Podcast, sharing powerful motivational perspectives. In observance of May Cancer Awareness, this special episode dives into critical aspects of three specific cancers: bladder, melanoma, and skin cancer. Dr. Eanelli provides invaluable medical expertise on the latest cancer treatments, diagnosis, and management of these diseases. Angel Santana offers heartfelt inspiration and emphasizes the power of support and positivity throughout the cancer journey. This episode is packed with vital information and moving stories to offer hope and guidance for anyone navigating cancer.

🗓️Be sure to tune into a special episode on Wednesday, June 4th, in honor of National Cancer Survivor Month!

📣Call to Action 1: Join the waitlist for our "Navigating Cancer TOGETHER" forum here: https://www.ontheotherside.life/forum-waitlist

✨Highlights from the show:

03:59 The CROC Podcast: Mission & Impact

13:20 Deep Dive: Bladder Cancer Awareness

24:42 Understanding Melanoma & Skin Cancer Types

28:58 Why Dermatologists Are Crucial

31:07 Recognizing Skin Cancer Signs & Symptoms

45:32 The Lollipop Story: The Power of Compassionate Patient Care

Transcript: https://bit.ly/podscript165

Connect & Engage with Dr. E. & Angel:

Website: https://www.crocvip.com

CROC Podcast: https://www.crocvip.com/podcasts/all-episodes/

Have Faith Let It Begin Podcast: https://havefaithletitbegin.com

Sponsor: Lois Dendy, beautiful mother of Talaya, https://www.ontheotherside.life/a-phenomenal-mother

📣Call to Action 2: Navigating Cancer TOGETHER is an independent podcast. To keep the episodes coming and support the show, consider buying me a cup of 🍵green tea at https://buymeacoffee.com/nctpodcast

Host: Talaya Dendy

Producer: Talaya Dendy

Executive Producer: Talaya Dendy

Writer: Talaya Dendy

Editor: Talaya Dendy

💜Love this podcast? Share it!

Disclaimer: The information on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and SHOULD NOT be used as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, evaluation, or care from your physician or other qualified health care provider.

Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Welcome to another episode of the CROC Podcast, hosted by Dr. E and his spiritual warrior Angel. After a brief hiatus, we're diving into a heartfelt discussion about navigating life's uncertainties, particularly in the realm of medicine and cancer survivorship.

Dr. E catches up with Angel as they explore stories of resilience, courage, and the unpredictable nature of medical diagnoses. This episode highlights the emotional journey of survivors and emphasizes the importance of embracing uncertainty as an inherent part of life.

Through the story of Janine, a patient confronted with a daunting medical report, we explore the challenges of interpreting medical uncertainties and the need to support each other on this path. Join us as we share insights on how to stand firm in the face of uncertainty and empower yourself with hope and positivity.

Don't miss this Mother's Day special, dedicated to all survivor-thrivers, physicians, caregivers, and moms everywhere. Listen in and embrace the courage to face life's mysteries with strength and resilience.

DescriptionCitizens Reunited to Overcome Cancer (CROC) is a grass roots cancer survivorship organization established in 1999 whose sole purpose is to support survivors and their families who strive to “turn tragedy into triumph” thru support events, education, publications, activities, and grant application oversight with love, compassion, empathy and warmth in a nonjudgmental, safe and non-discriminatory environment. The CROC Podcast is a weekly program hosted by Dr. Thomas Eanelli whose sole purpose is to support cancer survivors and their families who strive to “turn tragedy into triumph.”

DescriptionCitizens Reunited to Overcome Cancer (CROC) is a grass roots cancer survivorship organization established in 1999 whose sole purpose is to support survivors and their families who strive to “turn tragedy into triumph” thru support events, education, publications, activities, and grant application oversight with love, compassion, empathy and warmth in a nonjudgmental, safe and non-discriminatory environment. The CROC Podcast is a weekly program hosted by Dr. Thomas Eanelli whose sole purpose is to support cancer survivors and their families who strive to “turn tragedy into triumph.”

Citizens Reunited to Overcome Cancer (CROC) is a grass roots cancer survivorship organization established in 1999 whose sole purpose is to support survivors and their families who strive to “turn tragedy into triumph” thru support events, education, publications, activities, and grant application oversight with love, compassion, empathy and warmth in a nonjudgmental, safe and non-discriminatory environment. The CROC Podcast is a weekly program hosted by Dr. Thomas Eanelli whose sole purpose is to support cancer survivors and their families who strive to “turn tragedy into triumph.”

YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ontheothersidecancerdoula


CROC gratitude shout outs

Angel Santana -www.havefaithletitbegin.com
Rod Freeman - https://www.SmallBizUp.com

http://www.crocvip.com/
https://twitter.com/CrocVip
https://www.facebook.com/CROCVIP

http://www.crocvip.com/

On our last podcast of 2024, we told the story of Mary, a living, breathing testament that medical miracles do happen.
The response we received was so positive and impactful that we decided that moving forward, the CROC Podcast would forever end the old year with a story of hope and start the new year likewise.
On today’s podcast, we will tell the story of “Dee,” another brave Survivor/Thriver who was told she would be dead in 4 months. The funny thing is, she was told that 3 years ago.

Please join us!

Reflect on the miracles of Christmas as Mary's story becomes a beacon of hope for all cancer Survivors, reminding us that while the battle against disease is tough, the human spirit is tougher. Embrace this heartfelt narrative, which celebrates resilience and the power of never losing faith, even in the face of life's toughest challenges.

1. Got shipped off to the other side of the planet to endure unspeakable hardship
2.  Had to fight an invisible enemy in a war that was unpopular at best, if not downright unnecessary, not winnable, and unsupported by their own countryman
3.  Came home after all the horror not to parades but protests, shouts of hatred instead of love, spittle instead of kisses, and ingratitude instead of appreciation.
4.  Last but not least, became ticking cancer time bombs because of exposure to a pesticide their own government proclaimed to be safe 

Michael John Benzaia is from the Hudson Valley, NY, USA. He is an American whose family has immigrated from Sicily, Spain, and Jordan. Recently, Michael John appeared as James McCord in All The President's Men alongside Mark Ruffalo, Ethan Hawke, Don Cheadle, Laurence Fishburne & Parker Posey.
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CROC gratitude shout outs

Angel Santana - https://www.spreaker.com/show/have-faith-let-it-begin-introduction
Rod Freeman - https://www.SmallBizUp.com

Charlotte Larsen - http://www.charlottelarsen.net/
Michael Benzaia - https://www.michaeljohnbenzaia.com/

http://www.crocvip.com/
https://twitter.com/CrocVip
https://www.facebook.com/CROCVIP

Photo by Clay Banks on Unsplash