Amy Austin reads her poem “In Praise of Quiet Advocacy” from the 2024 “MBC: Advocacy” issue of Wildfire Journal. Her poem is about the role of “quiet” advocacy in supporting individuals living with metastatic breast cancer (MBC).

Shelley Moreno returns to The Burn for a second visit. Shelley was diagnosed in 2012 with Triple Negative breast cancer. She is a writer, speaker and intuitive healer for pets and people. Shelley is currently writing a book and gives animal communication and intuitive coaching sessions. She lives in Los Angeles with her son Kai and their beloved cat Ollie. In this episode Shelley reads her piece “My Side” from the 2024 “Mothers & Daughters” issue of Wildfire Journal. Her essay is about coming to terms with a difficult childhood and what is ultimately most healing for a daughter moving forward.April and Shelley will discuss the courage it takes to write about difficult relationships, communicating with your inner child, and the Death Mother archetype. 

Susan DiGregorio was diagnosed just days before her 38th birthday with Stage Ib hormone positive breast cancer. Susan is a mom, wife, volunteer and also works in real estate. In this episode, Susan reads her piece “The Hidden Struggle of Secondary Infertility” from Wildfire Magazine’s 2024 “Family” issue. Susan’s story is about the complexities surrounding her inability to have another child after cancer. April and Susan will discuss the roles pets play in cancer, finding acceptance with hormone therapy side effects, and the time and layers in recovering from cancer’s aftermath. They will also talk about the significance of connecting with others within the cancer community.

Lauren Tarpley of South Carolina returns to The Burn for a second visit. She was diagnosed at 34 with Stage II, HER2+ breast cancer. Lauren is a mom, wife and third generation urban homesteader. In this episode, Lauren reads her piece “Lucy’s Long Journey” from Wildfire Magazine’s 2024 “Family” issue. Lauren’s inspirational story is about unexpected and amazing experiences surrounding her post-cancer miracle baby.