April 8, 2025

S5E18: Discovering Meaning & Purpose Post-Cancer: Stephanie's Journey

S5E18: Discovering Meaning & Purpose Post-Cancer: Stephanie's Journey

In this heartfelt and hope-filled episode of Best…

In this heartfelt and hope-filled episode of Besties with Breasties Podcast, hosts Sarah Hall and Beth Wilmes sit down with Stephanie Girard, a breast cancer survivor with a story of transformation. Diagnosed with stage two lobular carcinoma, Stephanie didn’t just face cancer—she faced herself and asked the hard questions: What now? What’s next? Her answers led her down a new path, shifting her career toward counseling and diving headfirst into a life of greater purpose and service. The conversation explored what it really means to rebuild after breast cancer—not just your body, but your sense of self. From navigating the emotional and mental whiplash that can follow treatment to redefining identity and meaning, this episode is packed with candid conversation, encouragement, and insights for anyone wondering how to move forward when everything has changed. Whether you're freshly diagnosed, deep in the trenches, or on the other side wondering what’s next—this episode is a reminder that cancer might change your path, but it doesn’t get to steal your purpose. 00:00 Introduction to the Besties with Breasties Podcast 00:45 Snowy Day Banter 01:07 Discussing Meaning and Purpose 03:14 Introducing Stephanie's Journey 03:39 Sponsor Message: Faith Through Fire Survivorship Bootcamp 04:51 Stephanie's Diagnosis and Treatment 07:12 Emotional Impact and Support Systems 13:57 Career Reflections and Counseling 14:52 Boobs in the News: Funny and Ridiculous Stories 16:03 A Rude Encounter Leads to a Big Win 18:20 Finding Purpose After Breast Cancer 19:37 Pursuing a New Career Path 20:49 Balancing Life and Goals 24:40 The Importance of Meaning and Purpose 28:24 Final Thoughts and Encouragement Guest Profile: https://www.bestieswithbreastiespodcast.com/guests/stephanie-girard/ Connect with Faith Through Fire: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/faithroughfire/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FaithroughFire/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrsAo4sAD6_EjGuvqLKP3Rg Podcast available on Apple, SoundCloud, Spotify and wherever you listen.