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Turning Personal Loss Into Action

Cancer becomes real long before statistics or research headlines. For Shereen and Isabella Pavlides, it became personal through their family’s experience caring for Isabella’s grandmother, Esther, during her seven-year journey with pancreatic cancer. That experience shaped not only how they view cancer, but how they choose to respond to it.

In the latest episode of All Things Cancer, NFCR President and CEO Dr. Sujuan Ba sits down with Shereen and Isabella for a heartfelt conversation about caregiving, community, and what it means to turn personal loss into meaningful action.

Isabella, now one of NFCR’s Community Ambassadors, has emerged as a powerful example of next-generation leadership. From leading Play4TheCure efforts through Bucknell University athletics to launching her growing Dine & Donate initiative, she has helped raise tens of thousands of dollars to support cancer research. Her work demonstrates how young people can mobilize their communities, create accessible fundraising models, and make a real impact at a time when research funding is under increasing pressure.

At the center of their story is Esther, whose determination and will to live defied expectations and left a lasting impression on her family. Despite a diagnosis of one of the deadliest cancers, Esther continued to live fully—traveling, swimming, cooking, and spending precious time with her grandchildren. Those years not only created lifelong memories but also helped shape Isabella’s desire to pursue a future in medicine.

The episode also explores the often-unseen role of caregivers and the emotional complexity families face when navigating a cancer diagnosis. Through shared reflections on love, resilience, and support, the conversation highlights why community-driven advocacy and sustained research funding are so critical.

Shereen and Isabella’s journey is a reminder that progress against cancer is fueled not only by science, but by people who care deeply and choose to act. As NFCR Community Ambassadors, they are helping amplify the mission to fund innovative research, empower scientists, and accelerate discoveries that can save lives.

About All Things Cancer

Each episode of All Things Cancer will spotlight the most pressing topics in oncology, from cutting-edge treatments and emerging research to personal stories of resilience and hope. More than just a podcast, it’s a platform for raising awareness, advancing cancer education, and fostering a global community of support and collaboration.

Hosted by NFCR CEO, Sujuan Ba, Ph.D., this compelling series will bring together the entire ecosystem of cancer research—including leading scientists, oncologists, doctors, patient advocates, caregivers, biotech innovators, and survivors—for powerful discussions on the breakthroughs shaping the future of cancer research, treatment, and care.

All Things Cancer is now available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, and YouTube!

Subscribe now to stay up to date on the latest episodes and join the conversation that’s shaping the future of cancer research. Cancer impacts everyone—whether you’re a patient, caregiver, advocate, or researcher, this podcast delivers invaluable insights from those on the frontlines of the fight against it.