Join us for the next episode of Cancer Out Loud, The CancerCare Podcast, as guest host and oncology social worker, Sara Grisales Jaramillo, speaks with Jon Fox, a cancer survivor and former elementary school teacher. Jon shares his journey from diagnosis to survivorship, discussing the emotional and psychological challenges he faced, the grief of losing aspects of his former life, and the importance of community and support in navigating the complexities of life after cancer. He emphasizes the need for self-advocacy and finding the right resources to aid in recovery, while also reflecting on the duality of emotions experienced throughout the journey.

Thank you to Jon for shedding light on the unique challenges and triumphs of those affected by cancer.

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Key Takeaways

• Cancer can interrupt any career or life stage.

• Survivorship is its own chapter with unexpected challenges.

• Many people feel isolated once treatment ends and support tapers off.

• Grief shows up in everyday ways—sometimes even in how food tastes or brings joy.

• Community and connection are key to feeling seen and supported.

• Many effects are invisible to others (fatigue, brain fog, anxiety, pain).

• Self-advocacy matters in follow-up care and day-to-day life.

• It helps to hold space for both what’s been lost and what’s newly possible.

• Healing isn’t linear; patience, time, and support make a difference.