Medical Discussions

Medical Discussions

Living Well offers medical updates and special discussions online to support you during your cancer journey, from initial diagnosis through treatment and into early survivorship.

All discussions will be presented virtually via Microsoft Teams. Registration is available at livingwell.nm.org

You can watch recordings of previous medical discussions on our YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@NorthwesternMedicineLivingWell

 

September

Medicare Made Easier – Parts A and B
Virtual: Thursday, September 17, 6:30 – 7:30 pm
Register here: https://qrco.de/bgTDB4
Kara R. Murphy, President, DuPage Health Coalition
Once a year, Medicare gives its nearly 65 million beneficiaries a chance to step back, review their coverage and make any changes that will help them get the best out of the federal government’s health insurance program. Learn from an expert during this open enrollment season.

 

October

Understanding Breast Cancer: Risk Factors and Prevention
Virtual: Thursday, October 15, 6:30 – 7:30 pm
Register here: https://qrco.de/bgTCs4
Miraj G. Shah-Khan, MD, Breast Surgery, Northwestern Medicine
Explore the key risk factors associated with breast cancer and learn how lifestyle, genetics, environment and overall health can influence breast cancer risk. The discussion will highlight common and lesser-known risk factors, the importance of early detection and practical strategies for reducing risk and promoting breast health.

I’ve Finished Cancer Treatment, Now What? Survivorship 101
Virtual: Monday, October 26, 6:00 – 7:15 pm
Neha Hippalgaonkar, MD, Medical Oncologist, Northwestern Medicine
Cancer treatment can require your full attention and energy for months or even years. After treatment, you may feel emotionally and physically drained; you may even feel disoriented as you try to adjust to life after treatment. Join Dr. Hippalgaonkar as she talks about what to expect as a cancer survivor and how to work with your care team as you recover from treatment.

Fertility and Cancer
Virtual: Thursday, October 29, 6:30 – 7:30 pm
Register here: https://qrco.de/bgTCfh
Kristin N. Smith, Program Manager for Fertility Preservation, Northwestern Medicine Center for Fertility and Reproductive Medicine
Join us for a compassionate, practical session on fertility and family building for people facing cancer and survivorship. We’ll explain how cancer treatment can affect fertility, review the options and explore paths to parenthood.

 

November

Lung Screening: To Screen or Not?
Virtual: Thursday, November 5, 6:30 – 7:30 pm
Marisol Munoz, APRN, Thoracic Surgery, Northwestern Medicine
Gain a deeper understanding of lung cancer screening, including who qualifies and why it is an important part of preventive care. The presentation highlights how early detection can significantly improve treatment options and outcomes. Through discussion and practical guidance, this presentation empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their health and encourages proactive screening and prevention.

Navigating the Emotional Effects of Cancer
Virtual: Thursday, November 19, 6:00 – 7:00 pm
Ana Anaya, MA, LCPC, Counselor, Northwestern Medicine Living Well Cancer Resources
A cancer diagnosis and its treatment can be emotionally and psychologically challenging. Join Living Well counselor Ana Anaya, MA, LCPC, as she discusses strategies for navigating difficult feelings and shares how having open conversations can help you cope with anxious or depressive emotions. Designed for patients, family members and caregivers, this presentation will be given in Spanish only.

 

December

Partnering With an End-of-Life Doula
Virtual: Thursday, December 3, 6:30 – 7:30 pm
Kimberly Rich, PhD, Death Doula, Tomorrow Mourning
Explore the role of an end-of-life doula and how this unique form of care can support the emotional, spiritual and practical needs of individuals living with cancer. You will learn how end-of-life doulas differ from medical and hospice caregivers and gain tools for advanced care planning, legacy work and meaningful communication with loved ones and care teams. The guided discussion will also allow time to ask questions and share concerns.