Part 3: A Conversation with Bill, a Bladder Cancer Patient, and the Doctor Who Treated Him

Click here to read the transcript

• Listen to Part 1
• Listen to Part 2

In Part 3 of this Bladder Cancer Matters podcast, host Rick Bangs continues his conversation with Bill Robertson, a bladder cancer survivor, and Dr. Vikram Narayan, an assistant professor in the Department of Urology at Emory University School of Medicine. They discuss the challenges and adjustments that come with having an ileal conduit, a common diversion procedure for bladder cancer patients.

Dr. Narayan emphasizes the importance of understanding the recovery process and finding the right stoma appliance. Bill shares his personal experience with daily life after the surgery, including the need for physical activity and the support he received from his wife and others.

Both Dr. Narayan and Bill stress the importance of seeking support from organizations like the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network (BCAN) and connecting with other patients who have gone through similar experiences. They also highlight the psychological impact of a bladder cancer diagnosis and the need for mental health support. The episode concludes with final thoughts from Bill and Dr. Narayan, who encourage patients to focus on their return to normalcy and to seek help and support throughout their journey.