January osTEAo: New Year, Same Cancer

This first osTEAo episode of 2026 keeps things real about what it’s like to head into a new year while osteosarcoma is still part of the picture. Mia and Sammy sit down with Sloane and Mackenzie to talk about the stuff that doesn’t magically reset when the calendar flips — pain, recovery, scans, and the mental weight that comes with all of it.

The conversation moves away from resolutions and “fresh start” energy, focusing on day-to-day reality. They talk about how January often brings insurance stress, medical bills, and uncertainty instead of motivation. Living with long-term side effects, chronic pain, or ongoing treatment makes it hard to feel excited about the future, especially when you’re still figuring out what your body can handle.

A big theme in the episode is the cost of staying healthy. Medications, prosthetics, therapy, mobility support, and scans aren’t one-time expenses, and dealing with insurance on top of everything else is exhausting. The episode doesn’t sugarcoat how frustrating it is to constantly fight for basic care while trying to live your life.

The conversation also touches on how isolating the New Year can feel when your experience doesn’t line up with what everyone else is celebrating. Recovery, disability, hospital stays, and grief can make traditional New Year energy feel distant or even uncomfortable. Instead of big resolutions, the focus is on small, "bite-sized" goals — drinking more water, showing up when you can, getting through the week, or just taking things one day at a time. It’s a reminder that progress doesn’t have to be loud or dramatic.

🎧 Listen to the episode here.