The P-I-G: Episode 19
Our Mother’s Legacy: One Life, Two Sisters, and The Love That Lives On
There are moments in life that redefine everything — and for us, our mother’s three cancer journeys were among them.
Our mom, Marsha, was a force of nature: creative, determined, and fiercely loving. She built community through her work in public radio, found laughter in the hardest moments, and taught us how to live with courage, even in the face of uncertainty.
Her first diagnosis came at 35. What followed were twelve years of remission, recurrence, and resilience. Through it all, she raised two daughters seven years apart — both trying to make sense of a world that felt unsteady, each grieving in her own way.
Marsha’s story is one of strength and humanity, but it’s also a reminder that legacy isn’t about what we leave behind — it’s how we live. She left us The Boxes — letters and gifts to arrive long after she was gone — but the greatest gift wasn’t inside them. It was the bond they helped us rebuild as sisters.
🎙️ In this deeply moving (and humorous!) episode, we explore:
The life and light of an extraordinary woman named Marsha
How her three cancer journeys shaped our lives and our relationship
The story behind The Boxes and how they keep her love alive
What it’s meant to outlive her by more than 30 years
The ways her presence still guides us through Purpose, Intention, and Gratitude… and so much more!
This is more than a story about cancer.
It’s about courage, connection, and carrying forward love that never fades.
Resources & References
American Cancer Society – Breast Cancer Information & Support
National Breast Cancer Foundation – Early Detection & Education
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – Breast Cancer Facts
Susan G. Komen Foundation – Mammogram & Financial Assistance Programs
American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) – For Caregivers
Western Colorado Resources:
St. Mary’s Cancer Center or the Grand Junction SCL Health Mammography Center: Advanced oncology services, screenings, mammograms, resources, and patient support.
Community Hospital Cancer Center & Mammography: Comprehensive cancer care, mammography, and screening programs for women and men in western Colorado.
💗 From Our Hearts to Yours…
The P-I-G is a heartfelt, purpose-driven podcast exploring life, love, loss, and legacy through real conversations and meaningful stories. Together, we unpack the moments that shape us—the stories we carry, the messiness of being human, and what it means to leave something meaningful behind.
Each episode invites us to honor what matters most, remember that grief isn’t linear, navigate life’s hardest moments with PURPOSE, INTENTION, and GRATITUDE, and to be reminded that legacy isn’t just what we leave… it’s how we live—right now.
“Hearing the stories of others helps us create a more meaningful connection to our own—because legacy isn’t just what we leave behind, it’s how we live right now.”
LISTEN here or on your favorite streaming platform (Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube & more)
SUBSCRIBE on your favorite podcast and streaming platforms
LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
SHARE an episode with someone who needs it
SUPPORT this work with a donation or sponsorship
The P-I-G Podcast is 100% self-funded and ad-free. Each episode is a true labor of love and we couldn’t do this work without the support of our listening audience. If you have feedback, a story to tell, or expertise to share, we’d love to hear from you.
