An Unexpected Life

An Unexpected Life
Podcast Description
An Expected Life with journalist and mother Marianne Banister turns a spotlight on what it’s like to be blindsided by an overlooked but dangerous epidemic; melanoma in teenagers and young adults. Through conversations with medical experts and stories of young survivors, Marianne delves into not only her daughter Claire’s melanoma journey and ultimate loss at 17 years, but offers inspirational insight and easy tips so you can take charge of your skin health and dodge this most preventable of cancers. Infused with the same positivity and contagious energy of The Claire Marie Foundation, this podcast will leave you feeling empowered to love your skin, enhance your wellness and live your best life - no matter what may come your way.For more information, head tohttps://www.instagram.com/clairemariefoundation/or: https://clairemariefoundation.org/
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast focuses on the epidemic of melanoma among adolescents and young adults, providing insights into personal stories, such as host Marianne Banister's daughter Claire's journey, and expert advice on prevention, with episodes covering topics like the triggers of adolescent melanoma, the importance of skin screenings, and emerging melanoma vaccines.

An Expected Life with journalist and mother Marianne Banister turns a spotlight on what it’s like to be blindsided by an overlooked but dangerous epidemic; melanoma in teenagers and young adults. Through conversations with medical experts and stories of young survivors, Marianne delves into not only her daughter Claire’s melanoma journey and ultimate loss at 17 years, but offers inspirational insight and easy tips so you can take charge of your skin health and dodge this most preventable of cancers. Infused with the same positivity and contagious energy of The Claire Marie Foundation, this podcast will leave you feeling empowered to love your skin, enhance your wellness and live your best life – no matter what may come your way.
For more information, head to

Here’s a thought that may seem strange; you can disagree with your doctor. Sure, they have the diplomas on the wall and you’re the one in the paper gown, but remember; the doctor works for you!
In this episode of our podcast An Unexpected Life, you’ll meet
melanoma survivor Elea Vander Burgh. As a 17 year old high school student, Elea
stubbornly stood her ground when her dermatologist brushed aside a questionable mole as nothing. Elea demanded it be removed. The result; a melanoma diagnosis that possibly saved her life.
Now a student at Baylor University, Elea shares her inspirational story with
Marianne to illustrate the challenge and power of self advocacy at
any age, the importance of shopping for a good dermatologist, and the
magic of developing a good scar story!
What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why it’s important to listen to your inner voice.
The value of advocacy and saying no!
The hallmarks of a gold star dermatologist.
The importance of finding a medical “team” post diagnosis.
Sharing your story with friends.
Links Screening to Save Your Life! How to Find the Best Dermatologist https://bit.ly/44dYnWO
The Difference Between Melanoma and Skin Cancer: Awareness That Could Save Your Life. https://bit.ly/45hm6q7
Education to Save Young Lives / The Basics of AYA Melanoma https://bit.ly/3ZVYqDx
Want to hear more episodes of An Unexpected Life? Find them here: https://clairemariefoundation.org/podcast/
Claire Marie Foundation Mission
“ The Claire Marie Foundation provides clarity and hope in the fight against adolescent and young adult melanoma through awareness, education and prevention.
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