“Universe, What’s Good?! ”  

We are so happy to have you here. Maybe you’ve heard those three dreaded words: “You have cancer.” Perhaps you’re trying to find the right gift for your co-worker who has just announced their diagnosis. Or, maybe you’re a Plastic Surgeon who is interested in relaying current information to your patient. Either way, The CanSurvivor Network is here to help you! 

Founded by Kelsey Smith in 2014, The CanSurvivor Network started as a video blog to keep loved ones updated on her own experience with stage two Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC) at the age of 29. At the time of her diagnosis, Kelsey was physically active, she ate a nutrient-dense diet, and generally did the “right” things. Getting breast cancer was certainly not in her plan. It simply did not make sense!

Upon completing an aggressive chemotherapy regimen and undergoing a double mastectomy with reconstruction, Kelsey began to feel the mental, physical, and emotional anguish of being placed into uncharted territory as a young breast cancer survivor. It led her to an amazing discovery that products, services, and initiatives are available to help those impacted by this disease. From there, a podcast and advocacy organization was born. Kelsey felt the call like so many before her to turn pain into purpose, and the first episode of The CanSurvivor Network was released in April 2018. Kelsey has since created an online community for men and women impacted by breast cancer and continues to support various breast cancer-related initiatives. Kelsey is on a mission to help others turn their pain into purpose.

Turning Pain into Purpose 

At The CanSurvivor Network, we understand that a cancer diagnosis changes everything. Many of the dreams we had for our futures have been crushed, forcing us to reevaluate our options. Through the immense pain we endured, we learned it is never too late to turn pain into purpose by helping others persevere.

Like many newly diagnosed individuals, Kelsey’s life was turned upside-down. Weekly hikes in the Arizona mountains became impossible, as did grocery shopping. All she wanted was for life to return to normal. Upon the completion of treatment, Kelsey faced the reality that life was changed forever. Much to the dismay of herself and others, she did not bounce back the way she imagined. Her pre-cancer life was meant to end in order to open new doors and serve her purpose of helping others through the toughest period of their lives.   

Our Mission 

Breast cancer has impacted over three million individuals in the United States alone, yet many of us have felt isolated while having this disease. No one gives us a roadmap on how to persevere after enduring surgeries, chemotherapy, and facing our morality. As of June 2019, The CanSurvivor Network is developing into an organization with a mission: To eliminate financial toxicity caused by a cancer diagnosis through advocacy, education, and grants. We at The CanSurvior Network envision a world without bankruptcy caused by medical expenses. 

“Live It  Up! ”  

Tune in as Kelsey interviews guests and uncover stories in the cancer Universe, bringing heart, knowledge, and reality to an often misunderstood disease. New episodes are released weekly, and you can find us on Facebook, Google Play, IGTV, iHeartRadio, iTunes, Podbean, and YouTube. Click here if you would like to be a guest on the show!