In this episode of the Eye Believe Podcast, we are joined by Carol McColl, an ocular melanoma patient of more than seven years, who offers a powerful and deeply human perspective on collective grief and collective hope.   Carol shares how community and connection play a vital role in navigating the grief and loss that often accompany an OM diagnosis. Through shared experiences, meaningful conversations, and mutual support, patients can find purpose, develop resilience, and cultivate hope—even on the most difficult days.   As you listen, we invite you to reflect and engage: share an inspiring quote, a favorite book, or a song that brings you comfort and light when things feel heavy. Together, these small moments of connection can make a meaningful difference.   As Carol beautifully reminds us: “Meaning fuels hope, and hope fuels strength and courage, which fuels resilience and perseverance.”   Tune in and be part of this conversation about hope, healing, and the power of community.   Carol's Social Media: https://www.facebook.com/carol.g.mccoll   Drippy The Sad Raincloud: https://abjustforyou.com/product/gwyn-morgan-the-tale-of-the-sad-rain-cloud/   Other great book we recommend- Mans Search For Meaning by Viktor Frankl- https://amzn.to/3L073cL Try Softer by Aundi Kobler- https://amzn.to/4bg6J43 Strong Like Water by Aundi Kobler- https://amzn.to/4aGTVnf Emotionally Healthy Spirituality by Peter Scazzaro- https://amzn.to/4qffujO  

In this powerful episode of the Eye Believe Podcast, we’re joined by Megan Morelli, who shares the story of her mother, Tami Sulistyo, an ocular melanoma patient whose legacy continues to inspire meaningful change.   Following Tami’s passing, Megan and her family found purposeful ways to honor her life, strength, and impact—including the creation of the Tami Sulistyo Memorial Research Grant. Through this grant, Tami’s legacy lives on by supporting vital ocular melanoma research and helping move the field forward.   In this conversation, Megan discusses: How her family transformed grief into action What it means to create a memorial research grant Practical and impactful ways individuals and families can honor loved ones while advancing medical research Whether you’re seeking inspiration, guidance on making a difference, or ways to honor someone you love, this episode offers heartfelt insight and hope.   👉 Learn more about the Tami Sulistyo Memorial Research Grant and how you can make an impact: https://give.arvofoundation.org/e/B90Oaw?vid=1nw87v   💙 Thank you for supporting ocular melanoma research and the Eye Believe Podcast.

🎙️ Steps For Sight 2026 with Kristen MacDonald | The Eye Believe Podcast   In this episode of the Eye Believe Podcast, we’re talking all about Steps For Sight 2026, A Cure In Sight’s annual fundraiser supporting the ocular melanoma community and funding research toward a cure.   Steps For Sight runs January 1–31, and participants commit to walking 7,000 steps a day to honor the 7,000 people diagnosed with ocular melanoma each year.   Hosts Danet and Megan are joined by ocular melanoma patient Kristen MacDonald, founder of KMac Fights Back—the top fundraising team year after year. Kristen shares why she participates in Steps For Sight, how she successfully grows her team, and why this challenge is so important to the OM community and advancing research.   🚨 Registration opens TODAY (12/21)! 👉 Sign up now and download the Charity Footprints app to track your steps: https://www.charityfootprints.com/stepsforsight/   ✨ Whether you’re a patient, survivor, caregiver, or supporter, this episode will inspire you to move with purpose and help step us closer to a cure. 🔔 Subscribe, 👍 like, and 💬 comment to support the OM community and stay connected with A Cure In Sight.

In this inspiring episode of the Eye Believe Podcast, we welcome author and advocate Rachel Sindaco, whose journey through Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and Ocular Melanoma (OM) reshaped her life in unimaginable ways—and ultimately saved it. Rachel maintains a remarkable positive outlook, openly sharing how she considers herself lucky to have MS. It was her MS diagnosis that led to increased medical monitoring, allowing her ocular melanoma to be caught early—a discovery that may have saved her life. Without MS, Rachel believes her cancer might have gone undetected until it was too late. Her book, From a Kick in the Head to a Kick in the Ass: My Involuntary Journey with Multiple Sclerosis and Ocular Melanoma, is a candid, often humorous, and deeply moving memoir about navigating serious illness, reframing adversity, and finding gratitude in the most unexpected places. This conversation is a powerful reminder that perspective matters, early detection saves lives, and even the hardest diagnoses can carry unexpected gifts. 📘 Order Rachel’s book now to receive your copy by Christmas! Support the podcast by purchasing through our Amazon affiliate link: 👉 https://amzn.to/44un94Q Shop the ACIS affiliate store- https://acureinsight.org/shop/amazon-affiliate-products/

👁️ Eye on COOG – Special Eye Believe Mini-Seminar (Recording) 📅 Recorded on December 6, 2025 🔗 Learn more or register for future events: https://www.acureinsight.org/education-events If you missed the live session — or want to watch it again — you're in the right place! This recorded webinar breaks down the latest updates from COOG 2 uveal melanoma studies and explains what they mean for GEP results, PRAME status, and mutation testing. Our expert speakers guide patients and caregivers through understanding eye tumor biopsy reports in a clear, supportive way. 🌟 Featured Speakers Kat Alsina – Castle Biosciences Dr. Amy Schefler Dr. Basil Williams   🎤 Hosted by Danet Peterson   💙 Presented by Castle Biosciences   🤝 Sponsored by Immunocore • Aura • Delcath • IDEAYA Biosciences   ✨ Watch, learn, and empower yourself with knowledge about your uveal melanoma journey. ✨ Feel free to share this resource with others who may benefit. #EyeOnCOOG #EyeBelieve #UvealMelanoma #AcureInsight #CastleBiosciences #OcularOncology #COOG2 #PRAME #GEP #MutationTesting #PatientEducation

Welcome to Session 1 of the Eye Believe Survivorship Seminar 2025! This 8:00 AM session features renowned ocular oncologist Dr. MATERIN (Duke Health) as he presents “Yesterday, Today & Tomorrow in Ocular Melanoma.” In this powerful opening session, Dr. Materin walks attendees through: 🔹 The history and evolution of ocular melanoma care 🔹 Current diagnostic tools, treatments, and patient management approaches 🔹 What’s ahead in research, technology, and survivorship support 🔹 How patients, caregivers, and advocates can navigate their journey with greater confidence   This presentation is part of A Cure In Sight’s Eye Believe Survivorship Seminar 2025, a full-day event bringing together experts, survivors, caregivers, and advocates to empower the ocular melanoma community with knowledge, resources, and hope.   About the Speaker – Dr. MATERIN Dr. MATERIN is a leading specialist in ocular oncology at Duke Health, recognized for his expertise in ocular melanoma diagnosis, treatment, and long-term patient care. His commitment to innovation and compassionate medicine has had a profound impact on the OM community.   About A Cure In Sight A Cure In Sight (ACIS) is dedicated to supporting those affected by ocular melanoma through education, patient services, advocacy, and funding research aimed at improving outcomes and finding a cure. Learn more or get involved: https://acureinsight.org

Eye On Research | Session 2: Adjuvant Therapies – What’s New Today? (And What Can You Do About It!?) Join us for Session 2 of Eye On Research, presented by A Cure In Sight 💙. In this insightful session, top experts in the field—Dr. Carvajal, Dr. Lutzky, and Dr. Kahn—discuss the latest developments in adjuvant therapies for ocular melanoma. 🕦 Time: 11:30 AM EST👩‍⚕️ Speakers: Dr. Carvajal Dr. Lutzky Dr. Kahn ✨ Topics Covered: What’s new and emerging in adjuvant therapies 🔬 The science behind current treatment strategies 🧬 Practical steps patients and clinicians can take today 💡 This session dives deep into the evolving landscape of ocular melanoma research, offering valuable insights for patients, caregivers, and medical professionals alike. 🎧 Stay informed. Stay empowered. Tune in to learn what’s next in ocular melanoma treatment innovation. #EyeOnResearch #ACureInSight #OcularMelanoma #AdjuvantTherapies #CancerResearch #ClinicalTrials #Hope

In this episode, we interview Danny Powell, an ocular melanoma (OM) patient whose tumor was identified early thanks to his eye doctor noticing a change and acting quickly. Danny explains his diagnosis, his treatment with brachytherapy, and how he later discovered that his grandmother also had OM—an extremely rare family connection. This prompted genetic testing, which revealed that Danny carries a BAP1 gene mutation. He discusses what that means for his ongoing care, his decision to join a clinical study, and the importance of regular surveillance scans. Whether you're an OM patient, caregiver, or medical professional, this episode provides practical insight into early detection, genetic risk factors, and patient involvement in research.

🎧 Eye Believe Podcast | Giving Your Diagnosis Direction with Chris Brotherston & Mike Cornell Getting an ocular melanoma diagnosis can feel overwhelming — but finding clarity, support, and direction can make all the difference. 💙 In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Chris Brotherston and Mike Cornell, two OM patients who share how they took charge of their journeys by turning uncertainty into purpose. From navigating initial shock to making informed decisions and finding community through A Cure In Sight, Chris and Mike’s stories remind us that no one has to face this diagnosis alone. Tune in as we explore: 💬 How to find guidance and confidence after diagnosis 🤝 The power of patient connections and shared experience 💡 Practical advice for navigating care and emotional healing 🎙️ Whether you’re newly diagnosed or supporting someone who is, this episode offers hope, direction, and a reminder that there’s strength in shared stories.   Please check out- -Mike's episode on Why Participate in Clinical Trials: https://youtu.be/s_XAOsZBE0w -Chris' episode on his journey with Daro as part of a men's health panel - https://youtube.com/live/RCrjZrC7g7Q #EyeBelievePodcast #ACureInSight #OcularMelanoma #PatientStories #Hope #Empowerment #CancerAwareness #GivingYourDiagnosisDirection

🎙️ Men’s Health Panel Discussion — A Special Episode for Men’s Health Month In this powerful new episode from A Cure in Sight, we bring together an expert panel for an honest, insightful conversation in honor of Men’s Health Month. Our guests open up about the unique challenges men face in prioritizing their health—both mental and physical. Together, we explore: Men’s Health & OM: Why early detection, awareness, and open dialogue matter more than ever Advocacy in Action: How men can use their voices to push for research, support, and better outcomes The Patient Registry & Bio Bank: What these vital resources mean for the future of OM research—and how patients can contribute to accelerating breakthroughs This candid discussion shines a light on the importance of men showing up for themselves, their families, and their communities. Whether you’re a patient, caregiver, advocate, or ally, this episode offers valuable perspectives, practical insights, and a renewed sense of connection. Tune in and join us as we honor Men’s Health Month with empathy, information, and hope.

November is National Hospice and Palliative Care Month. Join A Cure in Sight, an ocular melanoma foundation, for an insightful conversation with Suzanne O’Brien, RN, on the important distinctions between palliative care and hospice care. In this episode, Suzanne sheds light on the significant gaps in end-of-life education that leave many families overwhelmed and unsupported during some of the most challenging moments of their lives. As the Founder & CEO of Doulagivers Institute, Suzanne B. O’Brien has dedicated her life to increasing access to high-quality end-of-life education and compassionate care. Drawing from her firsthand experience at the bedside of more than 1,000 patients as a hospice nurse and palliative care professional, she has created free trainings and resources to empower both caregivers and practitioners worldwide. https://doulagivers.com/ 💙 Learn more about end-of-life support, education, and the mission to ensure no one faces this journey alone.

November is Men’s Health Month, and we’re diving into a topic that doesn’t get talked about enough — the emotional side of men’s health. In this powerful episode, we sit down with Pervis Taylor, award-winning life coach, author, and mental health advocate, to explore how men can better navigate the challenges of emotional well-being, especially in the face of serious diagnoses like ocular melanoma. Pervis shares his insights on breaking stigma, building resilience, and learning to express and process emotions in healthy, empowering ways. His compassionate and practical approach reminds us that strength begins with self-awareness — and that healing is both physical and emotional. Join us as we discuss: 💬 Why men often struggle to talk about emotions 🧠 Tools for emotional wellness and self-awareness ❤️ How vulnerability can lead to healing and hope 🎙️ Tune in for a heartfelt, honest conversation that every man—and everyone who loves one—should hear.   #EyeBelievePodcast #ACureInSight #MensHealthMonth #MentalHealthMatters #OcularMelanoma #PervisTaylor #MensMentalHealth #EmotionalWellness #Hope #Empowerment

How To Leverage AI In Your Diagnosis Journey with Chris Donaldson | The Eye Believe Podcast Meet Chris Donaldson, an ocular melanoma (OM) patient and AI professional who’s redefining what it means to take control of your health journey. When faced with conflicting medical opinions at the onset of his diagnosis, Chris turned to a tool far more powerful than Google—artificial intelligence—to help guide his decisions and find clarity in the chaos. In this inspiring episode, Chris shares how AI played a pivotal role in his diagnosis and ongoing care, helping him access cutting-edge information, discover new treatment options, and feel empowered throughout his metastatic OM journey. Join us as we explore: 💡 How AI is transforming the patient experience 💬 The emotional and practical realities of life with ocular melanoma ❤️ Finding empowerment and hope through technology 🎙️ Tune in to hear how curiosity, innovation, and resilience come together in Chris’s story.   BONUS- Download the A Cure In Sight App now! https://apps.apple.com/us/app/a-cure-in-sight/id6748178227   #EyeBelievePodcast #ACureInSight #OcularMelanoma #AIInHealthcare #PatientStories #Hope #Empowerment

In this inspiring episode of the Eye Believe Podcast 🎙️, brought to you by A Cure In Sight 💙, we hear from Allie Dashow, a young and passionate ocular melanoma patient who has turned her diagnosis into a mission to raise awareness and make a difference. Now three years into her journey, Allie reflects on where she is today—how she’s grown, found strength, and become an advocate and voice for others facing OM 🌈. From her personal experiences to her work within the larger melanoma community, Allie’s story is one of courage, purpose, and using her voice to create change 🎤. ✨ Allie's story is a powerful reminder that sharing our stories can inspire others, foster connection, and drive hope forward 💫. Link to her story in the Daily Mail: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-15153837/dry-eyes-dismissed-symptoms-diagnosed-rare-cancer.html Article on melanoma.org https://melanoma.org/news-press/i-had-dry-eyes-and-dismissed-my-symptoms-then-i-was-diagnosed-with-a-six-in-one-million-disease/ Connect with Allie here-- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allie_dashow37?igsh=MWR0dzJzamIzNjE4dg== Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/16Up8dxTJR/?mibextid=wwXIfr Podcast interview: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-eye-believe-podcast/id1580434627?i=1000583540686 Eye on Mental Health: https://youtu.be/olZCAam3vn8?si=CnJzBg6herXUHINb #EyeBelievePodcast #ACureInSight #OcularMelanoma #Hope #PatientStories #Advocacy #MelanomaAwareness

In this heartfelt episode of the Eye Believe Podcast 🎙️, brought to you by A Cure In Sight 💙, we meet Shana Bar, an international patient from 🇨🇦 Canada, who shares her journey living with metastatic uveal melanoma. Shana opens up about her experience on a clinical trial 🔬—the hope it’s brought, the encouraging news she’s received, and how her outlook on life has evolved along the way 🌈. But she also speaks candidly about the emotional side of survivorship—the gratitude and the guilt that can come with doing well while others in the community face harder outcomes 💔. ✨ This conversation is a moving reminder of the complexity of healing, the importance of compassion, and the power of community support 🤝. 🎧 Listen now to Shana’s story of resilience, honesty, and hope that shines through every word. #EyeBelievePodcast #ACureInSight #UvealMelanoma #ClinicalTrials #Hope #PatientStories #OcularMelanoma

In this inspiring episode of the Eye Believe Podcast 🎙️, brought to you by A Cure In Sight 💙, we sit down with Yvonne, a remarkable patient who was diagnosed with ocular melanoma in late 2019. What makes Yvonne’s story even more extraordinary is that she has brown eyes—a rare diagnosis among an already rare cancer 👁️. She opens up about the shock of her diagnosis, the emotional and physical challenges she’s faced, and the strength it takes to navigate life after OM 🌈. Through hope, faith, and community, Yvonne reminds us that every story—no matter how rare—has the power to inspire 💫. 🎧 Listen now to Yvonne’s journey of resilience, courage, and shining light through life’s darkest moments. #EyeBelievePodcast #ACureInSight #OcularMelanoma #Hope #RareButStrong #PatientStories

In this compelling episode of the Eye Believe Podcast 🎙️, brought to you by A Cure In Sight 💙, patient Nick Konovaloff shares his powerful journey living with metastatic uveal melanoma. From diagnosis 🩺 to joining a clinical trial 🔬, Nick opens up about the challenges, hope, and determination that have shaped his experience. ✨ This honest and inspiring conversation reminds us that even in the face of uncertainty, there is always hope—and a community standing beside you 🤝. Connect with Nick here- https://www.photographybynicholai.com 🎧 Listen now to Nick’s story of courage, perseverance, and faith in the power of science and support. #EyeBelievePodcast #ACureInSight #UvealMelanoma #ClinicalTrials #Hope #PatientStories

In this powerful episode of the Eye Believe Podcast 🎙️, brought to you by A Cure In Sight 💙, patient Tessa Parry-Wingfield shares her courageous journey with ocular melanoma. From the life-changing moment of diagnosis 🩺 to undergoing enucleation 👁️, Tessa opens up about the challenges and triumphs she has faced along the way. Through writing ✍️, Tessa has found both healing and purpose—transforming her experience into a source of strength while helping others in the ocular melanoma community feel seen, supported, and understood 🌈. ✨ Her story is one of resilience, creativity, and hope, reminding us all of the power of sharing our journeys. Victoria Cohen Eye Cancer Charitable Trust- https://www.vcecct.org/  https://www.instagram.com/seeing_life_clearly/ https://tessaparry-wingfield.com/ 🎧 Tessa’s Story and Finding Strength in Storytelling is available now—tune in for inspiration, connection, and encouragement 💫. #EyeBelievePodcast #ACureInSight #OcularMelanoma #Hope #PatientStories

Eye On Research | Session 1: Metastatic Treatments Join us for Session 1 of Eye On Research, presented by A Cure In Sight 💙. In this session, leading experts share the latest on systemic clinical trials, treatment updates, and innovations in liver-directed therapies for metastatic ocular melanoma. 👩‍⚕️ Speakers: Dr. Carvajal Dr. Moser Dr. Montazeri Dr. Orloff Dr. Burns ✨ Topics Covered: Advances in systemic clinical trials 🔬 What’s new in liver-directed therapies 🩺 Treatment updates and research breakthroughs 🌟 This powerful discussion provides patients, caregivers, and advocates with the most up-to-date information on treatment options and ongoing research for metastatic ocular melanoma. 👉 Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from top experts in the field. 📌 Subscribe to our channel for more research updates and inspiring patient stories! #OcularMelanoma #EyeOnResearch #ClinicalTrials #CancerResearch #ACureInSight

In this inspiring episode of the Eye Believe Podcast 🎙️, brought to you by A Cure In Sight 💙, we sit down with patient Ross Wither and his wife Megann Wither to hear their remarkable story of resilience, faith, and hope ✨. Ross shares his journey from the life-changing moment of diagnosis 🩺 through the uncertainty of treatment decisions, to finding a clinical trial 🔬 that gave him new possibilities. With Megann by his side ❤️, they walk us through their experiences with plaque brachytherapy 🌟, the emotional challenges they faced, and the small and large miracles they witnessed along the way 🙏. This heartfelt conversation is more than just a medical story—it’s a testament to the power of perseverance 💪, support 🤝, and believing in what’s possible 🌈. Whether you’re a patient, caregiver, or simply in need of hope, Ross and Megann’s journey is sure to leave you inspired 🌻. ✨ A story of courage, love, and miracles—you won’t want to miss this episode! 💫