The Big C: Breast Cancer and Mental Health

Braaains

We have the pleasure of talking with filmmaker and journalist, Traven Rice, about her experiences with Breast Cancer. We talk about how she discovered she had cancer, her treatment, the effects breast cancer can have on your mind and body, and the importance of community. We discuss how breast cancer can impact your view of your identity and how a mastectomy is not just a “boob job.” We also talk about seeing the experience of Breast Cancer on screen and why Traven wanted to create a comedic film about having a memorial for her left breast called Lay Lefty Down, which she is currently raising funds for at LayLeftyDown.com. Content warning – today we discuss terminal cancer and death. DOWNLOAD TRANSCRIPT HERE: https://braaainspodcast.com/s/Braaains-Podcast-Transcript_-Episode-58-The-Big-C_-Breast-Cancer-and-Mental-Health.pdf Contact us: BraaainsPodcast.com Follow: @BraaainsPodcast Music: @_Deppisch_ Support this show: Patreon.com/BraaainsPodcast

00:00 Introduction and Acknowledgment

00:36 Exploring Traven Rice's Experience with Breast Cancer

06:18 The Emotional Impact of Discovering Breast Cancer

08:37 Navigating Treatment Decisions and Medical Team

10:54 Camp Breastie and the Importance of Supportive Communities

13:41 The Need for Open Conversations and Awareness

19:26 Creating a Comedic Film about Breast Cancer

23:08 Emotional Journey and Healing through Filmmaking

26:30 Breast Cancer Myths and Realizations

29:25 The Importance of Sharing Experiences

30:22 Addressing the Emotional and Psychological Aspects of Breast Cancer

31:17 Finding Support and Building a Community

34:35 Utilizing Resources for Support

38:55 Advocating for Comfortable Medical Care

43:15 The Power of Laughter and Sharing Stories

44:13 Lay Lefty Down: Starting Conversations and Providing Support with Film

49:17 Sarah Received a Grant for a Personal Film Project -- Hoorah!

51:46 The Need for Diverse Stories and Voices