This week we sit down with the incredible Kerry Irish, LCSW, OSW-C, FAOSW—a psychosocial oncology counselor, interfaith minister, and co-founder of the Dempsey Center and dive into the world of oncology counseling.
With nearly three decades of experience in oncology and hospice settings, Kerry shares what it means to walk beside someone through serious illness—not to fix or rescue, but to listen, witness, and hold space with compassion. She opens up about her journey from leadership back to hands-on clinical care, the healing power of creativity and guided imagery, and how she supports both patients and caregivers through uncertainty, sorrow, and hope.
We also discuss her forthcoming book, Navigating Serious Illness: A Pathway for Exploring Life, Love, and Legacy, co-authored with Debra Mattison. Part reflection guide, part journal, part spiritual companion, the book invites readers to find meaning, connection, and peace during life’s most vulnerable moments.
Whether you're living with illness, caring for someone who is, or holding space as a clinician, this episode is a tender, wise, and inspiring guide.
Pre-order Kerry's book here! Release date is set for July 24, 2025.
If you'd like to connect with Kerry Irish directly, you can reach her at: kirish.cccps@gmail.com.
Thanks for tuning in and we'll see you next week!
If you'd like to support my journey to see a world without pancreatic cancer, please consider donating to my NYC Marathon Project Purple fundraising page.
Special thanks to:
Podcast Editor Jacqueline van Bierk of Pink Star Music
Podcast Music Good_B_Music
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