Fertility Preservation Decisions, Part 2

Fertility preservation is not always the first thing a family thinks about during a serious illness. But fertility preservation can shape a patient’s future in important ways.  

In this episode, Tekeima Townsend-Billups, MDiv, and Kari Bjornard, MD, talk with cancer survivor Keragan about her experience of going through fertility preservation years after completing cancer treatment. Keragan was diagnosed with Stage IV Hodgkin lymphoma at 17 years old.  

Now 25 years old and an emergency room nurse, Keragan shares her journey with fertility after cancer, including what she wishes she had known at the start of treatment. Kari offers insights into risks, timing, and how to talk with your care team. Tekeima guides the discussion that covers the emotional impact of these decisions, differences between male and female patients, and the many ways to build a family. 

A special thank you to our host, Tekeima Townsend-Billups, senior staff chaplain in Spiritual Care at St. Jude; our expert Kari Bjornard, director of the Fertility Program and assistant member of the Oncology faculty at St. Jude; and St. Jude patient Keragan. 

This episode was recorded on June 26, 2026. Listen to the first part of this conversation on male fertility preservation decisions.  

Learn more about Keragan’s diagnosis of Hodgkin lymphoma on St. Jude Care & Treatment and Together by St. Jude™. 

Learn more about female fertility and mental well-being on Together by St. Jude™. 

St. Jude does not endorse any branded product or organization mentioned in this podcast.