In this episode, we meet Aastha Sagger, who was diagnosed with stage 3 invasive ductal breast cancer at just 24, after what she thought was simply a pulled muscle. She shares the shock and confusion of those early days, navigating unclear appointments and a flood of unfamiliar medical terminology, before walking us through her treatment journey of chemotherapy, a double mastectomy with expanders, radiation, and the realities of chemo-induced menopause.

Aastha opens up about the physical and emotional toll of facing cancer at such a young age, including body image changes and challenging side effects. Through it all, she leaned on a “brick by brick” mindset that was inspired by a video of actor Will Smith, that helped her stay present, grounded in gratitude, and taking each moment as it came. She also reflects on how choosing vulnerability deepened her relationships and strengthened her support system.

Today, Aastha is the founder of Still Strength Wellness, where she supports people living with cancer and chronic illness through stillness, strength, nutrition, and gentle movement, helping them improve their quality of life.

Resources:

Founder & CEO, Still Strength Wellness

www.stillstrengthwellness.com

Social Media:

instagram.com/aasthasaggar

instagram.com/stillstrengthwellness

More adolescents and young adults (ages 18–39) are being diagnosed with cancer, and having to navigate challenges that look very different depending on where they are in life.

This episode coincides with the Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Awareness Week, and we’re joined by Angelina Mangiardi Coulter, Senior Program and Partnerships Manager at First Descents, an organization helping young adults impacted by cancer reconnect with themselves and others through adventure in nature.

We explore their three core pillars: life-changing, week-long destination programs; local community adventures that bring people together in nature; and Lifestyle Pathways, a suite of accessible online resources.

First Descents creates space for young adults to process, connect, and heal, while building meaningful relationships with others who truly understand the experience.

Resources:

Website: www.firstdescents.org

First Descents Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@firstdescents1

Community Adventures: https://firstdescents.org/community-adventures/

Submit an Inquiry: https://firstdescents.org/programs/programs-application/

Browse Available Programs: https://firstdescents.org/programs/

Turia Goggins shares her journey through an unexpected breast cancer diagnosis while navigating the strain of a spouse’s severe, undiagnosed mental illness. After years of benign tests, an August 2024 biopsy revealed stage 1 invasive ductal breast cancer. She reflects on telling her close-knit West Indian, Catholic family, making treatment decisions, and managing the intense stress of a volatile marriage.

Following surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, Turia opens up about the physical and emotional toll of treatment and her path toward healing through therapy, NAMI NYC support, and ultimately divorce. Her story is one of faith, resilience, and the deeply personal nature of surviving cancer.

Resources: National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)