This episode could save a life. Maybe even yours.

(We’re not medical professionals, and this content is not a substitute for medical advice.)

Picture this: you’re driving to your boyfriend’s house on the Fourth of July weekend when the phone rings. It’s your doctor — and you already know what’s coming. “You have breast cancer.” You’ve been diligent about mammograms since your early 30s — years before the recommended age of 40 — only to discover you have two types of breast cancer.

That’s the reality our guests faced. In Episode 127, B-Side sits down with our own Alicia Cox and Mix 104.1’s Kennedy Elsey as they open up about their diagnoses, their recoveries, and the journeys in between.

A special thank-you to Quincy’s own Annie Dow for recording our opener, sharing the facts, and giving important trigger warnings.

Kennedy and Alicia talk about the moment they found out, the decision to go public, the ups and downs of treatment, and how they’re doing now.

⚠️ Trigger Warning: This episode includes discussion of anatomy, mental health, suicidal thoughts, and body-related topics.
Please listen through to the end — we’re sharing a full list of resources for anyone who needs them.
You are not alone. Your light is needed.

🎗 Massachusetts Resources
Screening & Patient Navigation
Massachusetts Breast & Cervical Cancer Program (MBCCP): Free screenings (mammograms, Pap tests) + navigation, transportation, childcare, and interpretation support for eligible women 40–64.

Ellie Fund: Free grocery gift cards, meals, childcare reimbursement, transportation, housekeeping, and integrative therapies for patients in treatment.

CHAT Program – Brigham & Women’s Hospital: Up to $1,200 annually for medication, wigs, prostheses, sleeves, transportation, childcare, and counseling.

Pawsitively4Pink: Financial assistance and personalized support for underserved women diagnosed with breast cancer.

BIDMC Breast Cancer Support: Support groups, online community, specialty shop, and caregiver resources at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center.

Mental Health & Crisis
Samaritans 24/7 Helpline: Call or text 988

Hey Sam (ages up to 24): Text 439-726 (9 AM – 12 AM ET)

Massachusetts Behavioral Health Help Line: Call (833) 773-2445

🎗 New Hampshire Resources
Screening & Patient Navigation
NH Breast & Cervical Cancer Program (BCCP): Free breast and cervical screenings statewide.

My Breast Cancer Support: Financial and emotional support for patients and families in Seacoast NH & southern Maine.

Pink Revolution NH: Coalition providing financial support and easing treatment burdens.

American Cancer Society – NH: Transportation, advocacy, and local programs like Making Strides Against Breast Cancer.

SNH Health Cancer Support Group: Twice-monthly meetings in Nashua for patients and families.

Mental Health & Crisis
NH Rapid Response / Behavioral Health Crisis: Call or text (833) 710-6477 or visit NH988.com

Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (National): Call or text 988

Mobile Crisis Teams: Access through the NH Rapid Response line

🌐 Additional Regional Resources (MA + NH)
Susan G. Komen New England: Funding research + real-time support services.

American Cancer Society: Comprehensive programs, events, and local resources across both states.

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#MentalHealthAwareness #EndTheStigma #MentalHealthMatters #SelfCareMatters #YouMatter #ItsOkayToNotBeOkay #BreakTheSilence #MindfulLiving #EmotionalWellness #HealingJourney #HopeAndHealing #MentalHealthSupport #WellnessWarrior #TalkAboutIt #MentalStrength
#Samaritans #HeySam #SuicidePrevention #CrisisSupport #YouthSupport #PeerSupport #YoungVoicesMatter #ReachOut #SafeSpace #StayConnected #StrengthInSupport #SupportEachOther