From Cancer Survivor to Film Festival Creator: Edward Miskie’s Mission for Remission

From Cancer Survivor to Film Festival Creator: Edward Miskie’s Mission for Remission

Author: Dr. Brad Miller September 19, 2025 Duration: 50:22

Episode Summary:

In this episode of Cancer and Comedy, host Brad welcomes back Edward Miske—singer, actor, author, and founder of the Remission Film Festival. Edward shares his journey as a rare non-Hodgkin's lymphoma survivor, the inspiration behind his book "Cancer and Musical Theater and Other Chronic Illnesses," and his mission to create a space for post-cancer conversations through art. The discussion explores the challenges of life after cancer, the need for resources and community, and the unique vision behind the Remission Film Festival, which aims to showcase stories from anyone touched by cancer.

Notable Quotes:

  1. "There is so much more to the cancer conversation than just treatment and survival—truthfully, that's just the beginning."
  2. "Our mission is remission. We are marching towards remission in our lives, redoing our mission, and figuring out who we really are after cancer."
  3. "It's the first of its kind as far as I know—there is no other film festival that centers around cancer stories or survivors in this way."

Important Takeaways:

  • Life after cancer is often overlooked, with few resources or conversations about the transition back to "civilian life."
  • The Remission Film Festival is open to anyone impacted by cancer—survivors, caretakers, medical professionals, and more—encouraging storytelling from all perspectives.
  • The festival is not limited by genre; submissions can be about any topic, as long as the creator has been touched by cancer or the work addresses cancer experiences.
  • Edward’s vision includes long-term support for creators, potential scholarships, and building a community around post-cancer life and creativity.

Conclusion:

Edward Miske’s Remission Film Festival is breaking new ground by focusing on the stories and creativity of those impacted by cancer. Whether you’re a survivor, a supporter, or simply interested in powerful storytelling, you can get involved or attend—virtually or in person.



There's a particular kind of alchemy that happens when serious things meet sincere laughter, and that's the space where you'll find Cancer and Comedy: Helping Cancer Impacted People to Cope with Hope and Humor. Hosted by Dr. Brad Miller, this podcast emerged from a deeply personal place. Fresh into retirement after 43 years as a pastor, Brad received a prostate cancer diagnosis during the Christmas season of 2022. His instinctive reaction-to laugh as a way to keep from crying-sparked a mission. Each episode is built on the belief that those touched by cancer are not done living, and that facing the grim with a grin is a powerful form of resilience. You'll hear conversations that blend candid stories from the cancer journey with a genuine, often surprising, sense of humor. It’s not about dismissing the difficulty, but about discovering pockets of light and levity within it. Brad brings his unique perspective as both a longtime spiritual guide and a current patient, creating dialogues that are as educational about mental and physical wellness as they are uplifting. This isn't a lecture; it's a companionable audio experience for anyone seeking to fortify their spirit with hope and an honest, sometimes healing, laugh. Tune in for a podcast that redefines strength, proving that coping can be a creative, and even comedic, act of self-improvement.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Cancer and Comedy: Helping Cancer Impacted People to Cope with Hope and Humor
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