Staying Strong Through Motivation and The Role of Caregivers

Michael Goldman shares what has kept him motivated through years of cancer treatment, crediting his 4-year-old son, a positive mindset, and a commitment to healthier living. Acute care nurse practitioner Mary Montefusco, ACNP, of Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center shifts the conversation to caregivers, the partners, family members, and friends whose role can sometimes go unseen. She describes how caregivers advocate for their loved ones, notice subtle changes a clinician might miss, help manage visits during immune-compromised periods, coordinate transportation and medications, and often become the point of contact for concerned family and friends. Montefusco emphasizes how important it is for caregivers to take their own breaks and trust their instincts when something feels off, even when the person they're caring for wants to wait. The episode highlights how social workers, nurses, and the full team work together to support caregivers throughout the treatment journey.