Ep 65: Growing up as a childhood cancer survivor - The Patient From Hell Podcast
Cecilia Lang-Ree opens up about her journey as a childhood survivor of acute lymphoblastic leukemia. She reflects on her time as an inpatient, the challenges of fitting in at school, and how her identity has evolved through survivorship. Cecilia also discusses her discovery of fertility challenges and underscores the importance of addressing fertility concerns early in a cancer diagnosis. She closes the episode with empowering advice on embracing survivorship and exploring the many resources available for cancer survivors.
About Our Guest
Cecilia Lang-Ree is a childhood leukemia survivor, advocate, and healthcare Product Manager from the Bay Area. Diagnosed at age four, she has dedicated her personal and professional life to making health information more accessible. With a strong foundation in chronic disease prevention and behavioral design, Cecilia works to create consumer health products that promote well-being.
Currently, she serves as a Senior Product Manager at Biolinq, a medical device company developing a minimally invasive glucose sensor for metabolic health. She holds an M.S. and B.A. from Stanford University. Outside of work, Cecilia enjoys hiking, skiing, discovering new restaurants in San Francisco, and spending time with her husband, Christian, and her family.
Key Moments
7 minutes:
“I was fortunate to have parents who could navigate medical research and advocate for me. But I saw many children in the hospital who didn’t have that same access—many were from immigrant families or lacked resources. That experience shaped my passion for prevention, early detection, and ensuring that health information is available to everyone.”
12 minutes:
“I just wanted to blend in. I didn’t want people to know, didn’t want the attention. Anytime the word ‘cancer’ came up, it changed the entire mood of the room. People looked at me differently, and I hated that.”
41 minutes:
“Survivorship starts now—be proactive about managing side effects, seeking resources, and asking questions. Many survivorship and fertility clinics offer free or low-cost fertility preservation services, including egg freezing. Even if it seems out of reach, ask your care team about your options. Be your own advocate, recognize yourself as a survivor from day one, and take steps toward the healthy future you deserve.”
YouTube Chapters:
0:00-9:07 Cecilia’s story
09:08-16:30 Diversity of AYA experiences and growing up a survivor
16:31-30:18 Discovering fertility issues
30:19-39:49 Rapid Fire Q&A
39:50-41:57 Final words of advice from Cecilia
41:58-42:50 Disclaimer
Disclaimer: This podcast blog is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast blog or materials linked from this podcast blog is at the user's own risk. The content of this podcast blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have, and should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such conditions.
