September osTEAo: Turning Pain Into Purpose

In an inspirational episode of osTEAo, hosts Mia and Sammy honored the memory of their late friend and co-host, Camille Wahl. As one of the original founders of the podcast, Camille envisioned osTEAo as a space where adolescents and young adults affected by osteosarcoma could share their stories and find connection. Her legacy as both a friend and an advocate continues to inspire the mission of the podcast: raising awareness, building community, and reminding young people facing cancer that they are not alone.

Sloane, Mackenzie, and Alejandro joined Mia and Sammy in this episode to reflect on the many ways that pain can be transformed into purpose. Though cancer often brings hardship, survivors and families are finding ways to channel those difficult experiences into advocacy. Whether it’s raising awareness through initiatives like gold bows, supporting efforts to expand access to clinical trials, or simply showing up for someone in treatment, each act of advocacy helps strengthen the community and spark positive change.

Much of the conversation centered on the power of sharing stories and small acts of advocacy. Speaking honestly about the cancer experience helps others feel seen and understood, and even the smallest gestures can make a meaningful difference. These simple, everyday actions remind us that advocacy isn’t only about big campaigns or policy change. It's also about kindness, connection, and making sure no one feels alone.

In the end, the episode was both a tribute and a reminder of what matters most: community, compassion, and hope. Camille’s vision shines through in every story shared and every effort to make things better for others. Even in the face of loss, the osTEAo team showed how pain can be carried forward with love and turned into something purposeful.

🎧 Listen now to the ful episode of osTEAo: Turning Pain Into Purpose. Because your story matters. Your voice matters. And we are all in this together.

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