In this episode of Bladder Cancer Matters, host Rick Bangs speaks with Dr. Josefa Briceno of AstraZeneca about why bladder cancer care may be at a true turning point. From exploring immunotherapy earlier in the disease journey — even around the time of surgery — to strengthening collaboration between urologists and medical oncologists, the conversation highlights how timing, teamwork, and informed shared decision-making are reshaping care.

Dr. Briceno explains what this shift means for patients, why education and self-advocacy are essential, and how partnerships between industry and advocacy organizations like BCAN help ensure innovation reflects real patient needs.

It's a hopeful, forward-looking discussion about where bladder cancer treatment is headed — and why patients should feel empowered to be active participants in their care.

In this powerful episode of Bladder Cancer Matters, Rick Bangs sits down with Mike Vasallo, a high school assistant principal diagnosed with early-onset bladder cancer at 46 who turned fear and uncertainty into purpose.

Mike shares his raw, honest journey through diagnosis, treatment and recovery—and how finding community, asking for help and leaning into advocacy changed everything. He also explains how he uses humor, data and even TikTok trends to educate and reach people who might never otherwise learn about bladder cancer.

The conversation dives into the emotional toll of cancer, the realities of treatment and why speaking up can make a life-changing difference for patients and caregivers alike. It's an inspiring, practical and deeply human story about resilience, connection and using your voice to help others feel less alone.

In this uplifting episode of Bladder Cancer Matters, survivors Sandy Weicher and Danny Gereg share how the Walk to End Bladder Cancer became the turning point they didn't know they needed—a place where strangers become family, hope replaces fear and every mile walked fuels research and critical patient programs.

Sandy describes the moment she arrived at the New York City Walk, surrounded by the skyline and a sea of survivors, caregivers and clinicians, and instantly felt connected to something bigger than her diagnosis. Danny talks about showing up lost and anxious at the Columbus Walk, only to find a community that carried him through his darkest moments and inspired him to fight for his health. Together with host Rick Bangs, they show how the Walk isn't just an event—it's a lifeline, a celebration of resilience, and a reminder that no one faces bladder cancer alone. Their stories will make you smile, tear up, and—most of all—want to join in.

Sign up for a 2026 Walk to End Bladder Cancer.