Show notes
Episode SummaryWhen Kathleen “Kathy” Barnard noticed two small spots on her arm, she had no idea they would lead to a diagnosis of metastatic malignant melanoma—and a prognosis of just three to six months.In this episode of Amplify, Kathy shares the extraordinary story of how persistence, family advocacy, compassionate-access treatment, and emerging immuno-oncology gave her another chance at life. She also speaks candidly about the gaps she encountered throughout her journey, from an initially dismissed concern and missing medical records to financial barriers and unequal access to treatment.Those experiences became the foundation for the Save Your Skin Foundation, a patient-led organization that has spent 20 years supporting people affected by melanoma and other skin cancers while advocating for prevention, research, clinical trials, innovative treatments, and more equitable cancer care across Canada.Kathy’s story is a powerful reminder that lived experience can expose weaknesses in healthcare—and become a driving force for meaningful change.Episode HighlightsThe small, easily dismissed signs that led to Kathy’s melanoma diagnosisWhat it felt like to receive a stage-four diagnosis without access to patient supportHow Kathy’s family searched for treatment options when conventional therapies failedThe clinical treatment that dramatically reduced her tumoursWhy patients should keep copies of their own medical recordsHow family, community, and Kathy’s young sports team helped her keep goingHow Kathy’s experience inspired the creation of the Save Your Skin FoundationThe growing role of immuno-oncology and innovative treatments in cancer careWhy patients and caregivers have an essential role in shaping healthcare decisionsThe geographic and financial barriers that continue to affect access to cancer careWhy Canada needs greater investment in research and earlier access to clinical trialsKathy’s call for timely, equitable care regardless of where a patient livesLinks and ResourcesSave Your Skin Foundation — Patient support, education, prevention, advocacy, and resources for melanoma, non-melanoma skin cancers, and ocular melanomaAll.Can International — A global initiative working toward sustainable, efficient, and patient-centred cancer careMelanoma Canada — Information and support services for people affected by melanoma and skin cancerCanadian Cancer Society: Melanoma — Information about melanoma, risk factors, signs, diagnosis, and treatmentGovernment of Canada: Skin Cancer — Skin cancer information and prevention guidanceDisclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by guests on Amplify are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast, its hosts, Patient Voice Partners, or its affiliates.Medical Disclaimer: The content shared on Amplify is for informational and educational purposes only.Nothing discussed on this podcast—including stories, experiences, perspectives, or commentary from hosts, guests, or contributors—should be interpreted as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations.Always seek the guidance of your physician or other licensed provider with any questions regarding your health, medical conditions, or treatment options.