The International Issue - Spring 2021 with Lauren Mahon

SPRING 2021

FORGING A FUTURE

THE INTERNATIONAL ISSUE

HOW LONDON-BASED GIRLVSCANCER FOUNDER LAUREN MAHON IGNITED A DIGITAL CANCER CRUSADE US $10.00

COULD CANCER BE THE

NEXT TARGET OF MRNA VACCINES?

UNDERWATER HEALER PHOTOGRAPHING THE

DEPTHS OF HEALING

Caylei and Allison get candid with cancer game changers in a new video interview series. Visit our social channels to watch the latest conversations with guests like Susan G. Komen’s CEO Paula Schneider and Cancer Wellness’ very own Cancer Coach Mirela Kopier.

LETTER from the Editor

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Photos by Sarah Bell

ith spring in full swing, we are given the chance to both look afar and look within.

Looking for direction? Me too! Our annual international issue provides us with this opportunity to broaden our horizons in two specific ways. The first horizon we examine is global. What are other countries, like India, doing about cancer (p. 58)? What are wellness experts and wellness companies with global footprints doing specifically to address cancer in the coming months and years (p. 63)? How are global enterprises, like oil, affecting our health and what can be done about it (p.

88)? Furthermore, what are these boots-on-the-ground healers discovering and advocating for?

The second horizon that is exploding is thrilling, intimidating and nuanced. It is tapping into the power of the human mind to heal the physical body. Even if our minds cannot or do not have comprehensive curative powers to successfully eradicate all forms of cancer in all people, the practice of certain mental and physical practices have credible and enticing benefits. Let’s explore them! One pathway showing promise in treating depression, anxiety, fear, PTSD and other nuisances common to the human experience is the therapeutic use of psychedelics (p. 41).

And perhaps most importantly, we use this season as a time of new beginnings, celebrating and addressing the importance of looking after mind, body and spirit. Let’s get our heads and physical bodies into a state where healing in all its forms can take place.

Whether it’s moving your body (p. 11 and p. 24), participating in celestial underwater photoshoots (p. 72) or taking the state of affairs in stride with wry authenticity like cover star Lauren Mahon (p. 46), remember to leave space and time to nourish and revere your inner space this season. Happy spring!

Cancer Wellness

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Virtual Walk and Run

Let’s conquer blood cancers

June

17-20

2021

Run or walk anywhere and fight with us against Leukemia, Lymphoma, Myeloma and MDS. Sign up and learn more at

allbloodcancers.org/gibbons5k

All proceeds benefit

SPRING 2021 BEAUTY 34

CATCHING COUNTERFEIT Everyone loves a good deal, but are you paying for sketchy cosmetics with your health?

ENTERTAINMENT 46

REAL TALK Cover star Lauren Mahon shares how she grabbed her breast cancer diagnosis “by the boobs” and created a community of warriors and thrivers.

AROUND THE WORLD 58

NO ORDINARY HOUSE There’s a certain house in India that’s serving as a beacon of hope for cancer patients.

INNOVATIONS & RESEARCH 69

FORGING A FUTURE mRNA vaccines are slowing the COVID-19 pandemic. Could the technology be useful for treating cancer too?

FASHION 78

BOOBIE QUEENS Feel regal and royal while going through breast cancer treatment with Boobie Crowns.

RESOURCES

BELOW THE SURFACE P. 72 NUTRITION 16

GOING GLOBAL International travel may still be in flux but these regional dishes will give you a taste of adventure.

MIND & BODY 24

FIGHTING THE FATIGUE Don’t let cancer-related fatigue keep you down.

82

PACK IT UP We’ve got you covered with hospital bag essentials so that there’s one less thing to worry about on your next visit.

CANCER & THE ENVIRONMENT 88

A DIRTY SECRET The push for global profit in oil comes at the expense of citizens’ well-being.

Cancer Wellness

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CAYLEI VOGELZANG Editor-in-Chief BRITT JULIOUS Editorial Director

NATALIA ESPINOSA Creative Director FEATURES Senior Editor TAYLOR NOVAK Editor-at-Large MIRELA KOPIER

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS ALYSSE DALESSANDRO SANTIAGO, ANA FERNATT, CATHERINE EVES, MAURA KELLER, CATHERINE MCCOY, MARIA TRIPODIS, ELIZABETH TUCKWELL

IN-HOUSE PHOTO & VIDEO SARAH BELL

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS SARAH BELL, JOHN KHUU, HOLLY McGLYNN, ERENA SHIMODA

EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD NATALIE CRAIG, DENA DODD PERRY, SHIKHA JAIN, GAIL PRINS, GLEN STEVENS, MARIA TRIPODIS

ACCOUNT MANAGER ALLISON STERN

SOCIAL MEDIA STRATEGIST KALLIE APPLEGATE

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT ISABEL GARCIA, ANTONIJA ROGIC

SYSTEMS ADMINISTRATOR JACK SAXE-STARAL

DISTRIBUTION

Cancer Wellness is distributed nationally through hospitals, support networks, select nurse navigators, subscriptions, and other outlets.

If you would like to know more about distributing Cancer Wellness in your facility or group, please email: info@cancerwellness.com

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ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. NO PART OF THIS PUBLICATION MAY BE REPRODUCED IN WHOLE OR PART WITHOUT PERMISSION FROM THE PUBLISHER. THE VIEWS EXPRESSED IN CANCER WELLNESS ARE THOSE OF THE RESPECTIVE CONTRIBUTORS AND ARE NOT NECESSARILY SHARED BY CANCER WELLNESS AND ITS STAFF.

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Cancer Wellness

Photo courtesy of Laura Middleton-Hughes

#cW MANTRA

“DON’T WORRY ABOUT THINGS YOU CAN’T CHANGE BECAUSE WORRYING WON’T CHANGE IT.” - Laura Middleton-Hughes, @baldbooblessandbeautiful

cW Online

WHAT YOU MAY HAVE MISSED

CW PLAYLIST RENAISSANCE

THE RIGHT TO BREATHE Although African Americans are less likely to smoke, they are more likely to be diagnosed with and die from lung cancer. LUNGevity, the largest national lung cancer-focused nonprofit, aims to change that.

Spring is a time of rebirth, especially in 2021.

Embrace a fresh start and new beginnings with Issue 10’s tracklist to overcoming the darkest of days.

To instantly access the playlist, open the Spotify app, tap search then the camera icon to scan the Spotify code.

TRACKLIST • LIGHT OF A CLEAR BLUE MORNING - Dolly Parton • PATIENCE - Tame Impala • 2009 - Mac Miller • RISE - Solange • FEELING GOOD - Nina Simone • GOTTA GET UP - Kali Uchis

MY MOTHER’S MESSAGE After caring for her mother during her battle with stage IV stomach cancer, Michelle Patidar trusted her instincts when a dream-state visit from her mother warned her about her own health.

• CHEER UP, MY BROTHER - HNNY • TO THE MOUNTAINS - Lizzy McAlpine • NO HARD FEELINGS - The Avett Brothers • A BURNING HILL - Mitski • THIS WOMAN’S WORK - Kate Bush • CAN’T GET ENOUGH OF MYSELF - Santigold, BC Unidos • IT’S OK - Nightbirde • EVERYTHING NOW - Arcade Fire • OPEN FIELD - Silver Jews • A PLACE IN THIS WORLD - Taylor Swift • COLOR SONG - Maggie Rogers • HERE COMES THE SUN - The Beatles • OOM SHA LA LA - Haley Heynderickx • RAINBOW - Kacey Musgraves

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Cancer Wellness

More stories at CancerWellness.com ON @CANCERWELLMAG, WE CELEBRATED AESTHETIC FLAT CLOSURE.

The cW Agenda

ALL THE NEWS YOU NEED TO KNOW GAMECHANGER

RISK ASSESSMENT

The new Keep A Breast app is a breast self-check app that connects users to a telehealth medical professional for direct, immediate support.

According to the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Black thrivers were twice as likely to test positive for COVID-19. Your vaccine is more important than ever.

keep-a-breast.org/keep-a-breast-app

STICK AND POKE

WHAT GOES UP A new study from the University of Virginia Health System says the colons of African Americans age significantly faster, leading to higher colorectal cancer rates.

You get a vaccine! And you get a vaccine! A Dana-Farber Cancer Institute study shows the future of preventative cancer recurrence just may be in vaccines tailored to the mutated proteins on a warrior’s own tumor cells.

GET CONNECTED Meet Jasper, a new and free app that simply and easily organizes your cancer journey from warrior to thriver and beyond. hellojasper.com

THE SURGE

A NICOTINE THING There’s never been a better time to quit. Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center researchers have found nicotine can lead to the spread of breast cancer cells to the lungs.

The world at large may pause, but cancer doesn’t. The University of New South Wales predicts a 52 percent increase of cancer-related surgery over the next two decades.

TRANSFORMERS

IN AND OUT The Tigerlily Foundation in collaboration with Puma Biotechnology, Inc. recently launched BREATHE TV, a new educational and inspirational Facebook Live series dedicated to breast cancer.

Bionaut Labs, an L.A.-based startup, has created crumbsized robots which can attack tumors from the inside, possibly reducing or eliminating the need for destructive forms of chemo and radiation.

facebook.com/tigerlilyfoundation Cancer Wellness

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the survivor

NICHELLE STIGGER AS TOLD TO BRITT JULIOUS

To hear more from Nichelle, visit cancerwellness.com

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Cancer Wellness

People talk about that third eye. And I have that third eye because the angel of death came to visit me. In the end, I was able to look at my life through a different lens.

Getting cancer was my biggest fear. When I was younger, I had palpitations. I would go to the emergency room and they could never find anything. But I know my body. During my husband’s birthday, I felt like I was going to pass out. We go to the ER and they do an X-ray.

A doctor said, “You have a mass in your lungs. And other than that, that’s all we see.” I just remember being very, very scared and I just knew it was cancer.

Everyone said [I was] overreacting. I followed up with a pulmonologist and she said, “You’re young. It’s probably nothing. So what we’re going to do is we’re going to wait six months and we’ll follow back up.” I looked at her and I was like, “Are you crazy? ” And she said, “Protocol says…” and I said, “I’m not a protocol. I’m a human.”

I waited six months and it was probably the most depressing six months of my life. Eventually, the pulmonologist called me a couple times. I didn’t think anything of it. She said, “You need to get into surgery right away.” And I said, “Are you serious? You made me wait and worry for six months.” I ended up getting in contact with a surgeon. He said it didn’t look like anything [he’s] ever seen. It didn’t have any cancer surrounding it.

After he gave his spiel, I pulled up a picture of Parker and said, “This is my son Parker. He’s four. He has a severe bleeding disorder. This is my master’s degree that I just paid $100,000 for. And I’m looking for a job right now to teach and I’m someone of use that gives back to society.” It’s unfortunate that we have to humanize ourselves so people see us.

They were only able to get the mass, get clear margins and then sew me back up. They were supposed to be able to test it right there, but because it was so rare, they couldn’t. I was in the hospital for four days and on that fifth day, he called me. I had cancer. It was a very rare type, a slow-growing cancer. I put myself in a protective bubble.

I just knew I was fighting for my son, no matter what.

I was involved with a group called LUNGevity. I am on their board now. I have been advocating for lung cancer and women of color, specifically, who are suffering with cancer. Everyone should have the care that they need, especially while going through cancer.

A month later, I was scheduled to remove my lower lobe. I was fortunate I did not have to have radiation or chemo. I’m a better person now. When they say go outside and smell the flowers, I can really do that. The worldly things, as my grandmother will say, will come in and distract me from knowing my purpose. No matter how young you are, this can happen to you. Trust your body and get all the information you can [to] empower yourself.

Photo by John Khuu

I call it a journey because there’s so many wonderful things that have happened.

Workin’ Up a Sweat Getting up and moving might sound daunting while in treatment, but it can lead to a big difference in how you feel both mentally and physically. The National Comprehensive Cancer Network found that moderate exercise not only uplifts your mood but also reduces fatigue, increases muscle strength, improves cardiovascular function and protects bones. Jump-start your active journey with the help of these four wellness programs centered on cancer warriors.

BY TAYLOR NOVAK

Photo courtesy of Tari Prinster

YOGA4CANCER

Tari Prinster was diagnosed with cancer in 2000 when both the world of yoga and the world of cancer looked very different. A longtime yogi, Prinster tried to find spaces that could apply yoga concepts to her diagnosis, but the search was fruitless.

“I looked around and noticed that nowhere in the yoga world was there anybody who knew anything about cancer,” Prinster recalls. “When I mentioned cancer, even to my guru yoga teachers, they kind of got wide-eyed and told me to go lie down, take it easy and not move. And that is exactly what I did not want to do.”

Feeling disappointed with the yoga world, Prinster began to study the benefits yoga could offer someone with cancer other than basic relaxation. Prinster found that yoga can improve your immune system, decrease constipation, increase range of motion and strengthen bone density.

After completing her treatment, Prinster received certification to teach yoga and launched a class at a studio in New York City. She contacted patient advocates at local hospitals who informed cancer warriors in talk therapy groups about her class.

The clients started pouring in immediately. “They didn’t want to just sit and talk anymore,” Prinster says. “Like me, they wanted to do. And in a yoga class, we just do yoga.”

With the growing popularity, Prinster realized she needed more help. After establishing yoga4cancer, Prinster developed a certification program to train yoga teachers in the specific needs of cancer warriors. Just like there are categories of yoga for seniors or people who are pregnant, Prinster believes there needs to be a category of oncology yoga.

The American Cancer Society and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services now recommend 150–320 minutes of yoga per week to speed recovery or defend against cancer occurrence and recurrence. However, a warrior may feel intimidated or uneasy attending a yoga class with a teacher uninformed on the effects cancer and treatment can have on the body. This is where yoga4cancer, which constantly conducts research alongside healthcare professionals on the scientific benefits of oncology yoga, has you covered.

“We retrain [teachers] to use the language of cancer, to talk about the system, to talk about common side effects such as neuropathy and lymphedema and, in the end, to talk about cancer in a way that is reassuring to a student,” says Prinster. “And that assurance and authenticity is what will bring a cancer survivor back.”

CANCER EXERCISE APP

If you’re looking for a variety of exercises to choose from, the Cancer Exercise App is for you. Completely customizable based on your cancer type, your level of fatigue and your treatment schedule and type, this app will create a guided exercise plan to keep you active no matter your fitness level. Whether you’re focused on strength and resistance or aerobic and endurance, a program will be formulated based on scientific guidelines from the American College of Sports Medicine for cancer warriors.

Available on iOS, free.

MYVICTORY

For seasoned gym rats, classes through MyVictory might be for you. Becoming a member will grant you access to hundreds of live classes, unlimited on demand content and targeted and tracked fitness goals. There’s pilates, yoga, HIIT and cardio routines galore. MyVictory’s mission is to improve warriors’ quality of life while reducing risk for recurrence in a motivational setting online.

Visit myvictory.com for membership options and pricing.

MGH CANCER CENTER VIDEOS

Apps or classes not really your thing? If you’re looking to get in a quick workout here and there, don’t hesitate to throw on a YouTube video from Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) Cancer Center. Developed by MGH Cancer Center’s Lifestyle Medicine program, these free exercise videos range from 20 to 30 minutes for every level and ability with modifications shown along the way.

In light, medium and hard intensity, there’s yoga, cardio dance and full body routines right at your fingertips.

Visit youtube.com/massgeneralcancer to browse free videos.

Learn more about yoga4cancer and sign up for free classes at y4c.com.

R: Tari Prinster instructs an in-person yoga4cancer class Cancer Wellness

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TOIL & SOIL

It’s spring! There’s no better moment than the present to cultivate your daydreams of becoming a green-thumbed horticulturist.

BY TAYLOR NOVAK

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ardening holds many benefits for cancer warriors in addition to growing healthy foods. The American Cancer Society (ACS) recommends adults get 150 minutes of moderate activity every week, which can be met through gardening and yard work.

A treadmill or bike ride around town isn’t for everyone and tending to your plot is a good substitute. Carrying around tools, moving mountains of mulch, maneuvering around the yard and, yes, even pulling weeds, can be beneficial for your health. Increasing your stamina, regaining your strength and going outside while close to home sounds like a pretty nice workout.

Getting in tune with nature is also a good way to improve your mental health. A 2018 study guiding cancer warriors in the garden found that participants experienced a growing sense of worth, lower levels of stress and overall increased quality of life. Spending time in the garden isn’t just meditative. The responsibility of growing and maintaining your own food is a meaningful and rewarding longterm method that can provide you with a sense of purpose.

While gardening can be a solitary act, the social benefits exist too. Community gardening offers a wonderful contribution to your neighborhood as you work with others to create a beautiful space. With COVID-19, community gardening may look a bit different this spring, but many public gardens have taken precautions to stay safe while getting down in the dirt.

KALE SUN: Full SOW: Early spring to early summer HARVEST: Autumn WHY: Rich in antioxidants, high in vitamin C

BROCCOLI, BRUSSELS SPROUT, CABBAGE

Cancer Wellness

TOMATOES SUN: Full

SUN: Full

SOW: Late spring to early summer

SOW: Early spring or late summer

HARVEST: Late summer

HARVEST: Early summer or mid to late autumn

WHY: Antioxidants, vitamin C, vitamin K, potassium

WHY: High in fiber, high in vitamin C 12

Gardening is also a good way to bond your household if you’d rather stick at home. Container or windowsill gardening is a viable option if you have limited space or want to start small.

And, of course, the bounty of fruits and vegetables you’re offered through gardening is one of the most enticing (and tasty) benefits of all. ACS recommends 2 1/2 cups of vegetables and fruits per day. Harvesting your garden gives you an easy excuse to take a break from highly processed foods and red meat. To best increase your health, prioritize dark green, red and orange vegetables, and don’t hold back on cultivating a rainbow of different fruits.

If you’re a novice gardener, getting started can seem intimidating. To help you out, we’ve provided a quick list of starter plants that’ll offer you the type of nutrition cancer warriors need most. Be sure to take proper precautions when gardening, such as wearing gloves to avoid infection of cuts, wearing long pants, long sleeves and closed-toed shoes in addition to SPF, and resting when you need it.

Happy gardening!

BLUEBERRIES SUN: Full, can tolerate partial SOW: Early spring HARVEST: Late spring or early summer WHY: Antioxidants, high in vitamin C

HONEYDEW MELON SUN: Full sun SOW: Late spring to early summer HARVEST: Early summer to early autumn WHY: Fat free, anti-inflammatory, high in vitamin C

cW Chat

Drawing from her journey with childhood cancer, Melody Lomboy-Lowe is now uplifting the cancer community during its hardest moments through a portrait series.

BY TAYLOR NOVAK

Photo courtesy of Luna Peak Foundation

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hile some may hesitate to play the part of public spokesperson for the cancer journey, Melody Lomboy-Lowe confidently leaned into the role all before the age of 10.

After being diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia at only six years old, Lomboy-Lowe’s doctors at southern California’s City of Hope National Medical Center noticed she was rather outgoing for her age. Lomboy-Lowe attributes this to her mother, who she describes as the “typical Italian mom: very vocal.” When previous doctors had assessed Lomboy-Lowe and determined her to be in good health after normal bloodwork, it was her mother who fought for her to receive a second opinion. “[She] was still worried because I had a lump on my neck and pushed to have me seen at City of Hope,” says Lomboy-Lowe. “That’s when I was diagnosed with leukemia. It was in my bone marrow and my spinal fluid. My mom had kept on pushing even though doctors had said I was fine. And I think that’s what saved my life.”

Seeing firsthand the power in being outspoken, Lomboy-Lowe was open to talking with others about her experience with childhood cancer. City of Hope flew Lomboy-Lowe and her family out to speaking events across the country where she helped numerous charities raise funds for cancer research.

After completing treatment at nine years old, LomboyLowe eventually went on to be an accomplished swimmer, marry her teenage love (now an oncologist, a career choice inspired by Lomboy-Lowe) and even have three children.

While she went through a phase in high school and college of keeping her cancer experience hidden, the opportunity to provide comfort and hope to friends or their families who received their own diagnosis ultimately could not be ignored.

“I just felt this need to really be like, ‘Look, there is hope. You’ve known me as a friend for two years and you didn’t even know I’m a cancer survivor. I’m doing everything you’re doing and I’m healthy and I’m thriving,’” she says. “I want people to know there’s a life after cancer. It doesn’t have to be a bad one.”

In the spirit of this message, Lomboy-Lowe created Luna Peak Foundation with her niece, Gracelyn Bateman.

With an age difference of only 12 years, though, LomboyLowe says the pair are more like sisters.

After suddenly losing her father when she was 26, Bateman sought a way to uplift survivors in the grief community at the same time Lomboy-Lowe was looking to give back to the cancer community beyond speaking and volunteering. They decided to form an organization creating books and products to celebrate life.

Their latest project, “Beyond Remission: Words of Advice for Thriving,” is a collection of portraits and words

of wisdom from more than 100 cancer warriors of all types, ages and backgrounds—a visual representation of what remission looks like. They’ve partnered with hospitals and oncology offices to distribute the book to newly diagnosed patients and their loved ones.

“We want them to know there’s a community out there,” Lomboy-Lowe says. “When a patient gets cancer, the entire family gets cancer. So, it’s not just the patient that feels that; it’s the siblings or parents or caregivers too.

This book actually helps all of them.”

Lomboy-Lowe and Bateman hope “Beyond Remission” encourages those who may be feeling overwhelmed, lost or anxious that healing even in the hardest of times is possible. “One thing I have learned from meeting so many cancer survivors is that cancer either chooses the strongest people or cancer makes you stronger,” Lomboy-Lowe writes in the book’s introduction. “Either way, survivors are the most amazing humans.”

“Beyond Remission: Words of Advice for Thriving” is now available in English and Spanish on Amazon. Donate a copy to a cancer warrior and learn more about the organization at lunapeakfoundation.org. You can also find Luna Peak on Instagram at @lunapeakfoundation.

Cancer Wellness

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nutrition 16 GOING GLOBAL

Going Global

Since alluring travel plans remain far off in the distance, experience new international flavors at home with these nutrient-packed regional dishes.

Photos by Sarah Bell

BY MARIA TRIPODIS

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Cancer Wellness

ITALY: VEGAN EGGPLANT ROLLATINI WITH CASHEW CHEESE Yield: 8 servings 2 large globe eggplants 2 cups raw cashews, soaked in water for at least 2 hours, drained 1/4 cup nutritional yeast 3 tablespoons lemon juice 2 tablespoons unsweetened oat milk 2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided 2 cups spinach, roughly chopped 3 tablespoons olive oil and more to drizzle 1 medium white onion, diced 2 cloves garlic, minced One 28-ounce can of whole tomatoes One 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes 2 tablespoons tomato paste 1 teaspoon sugar 1/4 cup basil leaves, roughly chopped 2 teaspoons dried oregano 8 ounces vegan mozzarella, shredded

until onion becomes translucent (3–5 minutes), stirring occasionally. Add whole tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, basil, oregano and 1 teaspoon salt. Bring ingredients to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 25 minutes, or until sauce thickens, stirring occasionally.

8. Add 1/2 of the marinara sauce to a 9-by-13 inch pan and spread to form an even layer.

9. Arrange an eggplant slice so the thicker end is closest to you. Add about 2 tablespoons of cashew cheese mixture to the thicker end of the slice. Roll eggplant away from you and add roll to 9-by-13 inch pan, seam-side down.

Repeat with remaining eggplant slices, leaving ~½ inch of space between rolls.

Pour the remaining half of the marinara sauce over the eggplant rolls. Top with the shredded vegan mozzarella. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until sauce is bubbling.

Let cool for 15 minutes before serving.

PREPARATION:

1. Heat oven to 350 F. 2. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper.

3. Using a sharp knife, remove ends of eggplant and slice into ¼-inch slices.

Spread eggplant slices evenly onto baking sheets. Season each side with salt. Set aside for at least 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture and bitterness.

4. To prepare the cashew cheese filling: In a food processor, add drained cashews, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, oat milk and 1 teaspoon salt and blend until smooth.

5. In a medium mixing bowl, add cashew cheese and fold in chopped spinach. Set aside.

6. Use a paper towel to dab both sides of the eggplant slices to remove the moisture. Replace the parchment paper on the baking sheets. Coat both sides of eggplant slices in olive oil and place evenly onto baking sheets. Bake for 40 minutes, flipping and drizzling with more olive oil halfway. Set aside to cool.

7. To prepare the marinara sauce: In a large saucepan over medium heat, add olive oil. Add onion and garlic and mix

GREECE: LONGEVITY GREENS AND HERB PIE Yield: 6 servings 3 1/4 cups bread flour 1 teaspoon kosher salt 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar FILLING 3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, divided 1 leek, greens trimmed and discarded, white and pale green roughly chopped 3 cups spinach, roughly chopped 3 cups Lacinato kale, roughly chopped 2 cups swiss chard (leaves and stems), roughly chopped

1 cup fennel leaves, roughly chopped 1 cup dill, roughly chopped 1 cup flat leaf parsley leaves, roughly chopped 1/2 cup mint leaves, roughly chopped 1/2 cup fresh or 1 tablespoon dried oregano 1 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

PREPARATION:

1. Phyllo dough: In stand mixer with dough hook, combine the 3 1/4 cups bread flour, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 1/4 cups of water, 1/2 cup olive oil and vinegar.

Mix on low until ingredients are well combined, about 2–3 minutes. Knead dough for 3 more minutes on medium until smooth and form a ball around dough hook.

2. Transfer dough to oiled mixing bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Let sit for 1 hour at room temperature.

3. For filling: Heat oven to 350 F. Brush a 9-by-13 inch pan with olive oil, set aside.

4. Wash, pat dry and roughly chop all greens and herbs. Add to large mixing bowl.

5. In large pot over medium heat, add 1/4 cup olive oil. Add all greens and 1 1/2 teaspoon salt. Cover and reduce heat to low. Cook until greens wilt, about 4 minutes, stirring occasionally. Uncover and cook for additional 5 minutes.

6. For pie: Divide phyllo dough into 4 pieces. On lightly floured surface, roll out the first dough ball to about 15 inches wide and 12 inches long. Lay onto baking pan and press center down. With pastry brush, brush 2 tablespoons olive oil evenly onto dough. Repeat with the second piece of dough and layer on top.

7. Add greens to pan, spread evenly.

Roll out third piece of dough and lay on top of filling, gently pressing down. Brush 2 tablespoons olive oil onto layer. Repeat with fourth piece of dough on the third sheet.

8. Connect draped dough and roll around perimeter of the pan, forming an even rim.

9. With sharp knife, cut top into 4 columns and 5 rows to prevent dough cracking.

10. Bake for 55-65 minutes or until dough is golden brown. Let sit for 10 minutes before serving.

NOTE: These greens grow regionally on Greek islands. Swap with collard greens, sorrel, beet greens, arugula or dandelion greens.

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ISRAEL: GOLDEN BEETS WITH YOGURT AND ZA’ATAR Yield: 4 servings 4 large or 6 small golden beets 1 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, divided 1 cup full-fat Greek yogurt 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 1 1/2 tablespoons honey 2 cloves garlic, peeled 1 tablespoon za’atar seasoning 2 green onions, thinly sliced 2 tablespoons toasted hazelnuts, roughly chopped 2 tablespoons pomegranate seeds 2 ounces soft goat cheese, crumbled

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Cancer Wellness

PREPARATION:

1. Remove the greens from the beets and rinse under running water.

2. In a medium saucepan, submerge beets in water. Add 1 teaspoon salt. Cover.

3. Bring beets to a boil over medium heat. Boil for 2 minutes. Reduce heat to low and cook for 45 minutes–1 hour, or until beets are fork tender.

4. Drain water from saucepan and peel beets. Cool peeled beets in the refrigerator.

5. In a food processor, blend Greek yogurt, olive oil, honey, garlic, za’atar and ½ teaspoon salt until smooth.

6. Retrieve beets. If using small beets, cut into quarters lengthwise. If using large beets, cut into quarters lengthwise, then cut each piece in half crosswise, forming 8 large chunks.

7. Spread yogurt mixture evenly onto a platter or shallow bowl. Add beets on top, forming an even layer. Scatter the green onions, toasted hazelnuts, pomegranate seeds and goat cheese. Sprinkle with za’atar seasoning if desired. Serve immediately.

JAPAN: MISO-GLAZED EGGPLANT WITH PEANUTS AND GREEN ONION Yield: 4 servings 3 Japanese eggplants 2 teaspoons kosher salt 2 teaspoons granulated sugar 1/4 cup sesame oil 1/4 cup white miso 2 tablespoons fish sauce 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided One 2-inch knob of ginger, peeled and finely chopped 4 cloves of garlic, finely chopped 1 red chile pepper, stem removed, thinly sliced 1/4 cup peanuts, roughly chopped 3 tablespoons rice wine vinegar 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 green onions, thinly sliced

PREPARATION:

1. Remove stems and bottoms of eggplants. Cut into quarters lengthwise and cut into thirds crosswise. Add to a large mixing bowl.

2. Add salt and sugar. Toss to combine.

Let sit for 20 minutes to draw out the bitterness and excess moisture.

Remove as much moisture as possible.

3. In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, white miso and fish sauce until smooth. Add to eggplants and evenly coat. Let sit for 10 minutes.

4. In a large saucepan over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons olive oil.

Add ginger, garlic, chile pepper and peanuts. Cook until garlic and ginger begin to brown and become fragrant, about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Remove mixture from saucepan and set aside in a small bowl.

6. In a saucepan over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons olive oil. Using tongs, add eggplant pieces, flesh-side down. Cook until eggplant begins to brown, about 3 minutes. Flip and repeat on the skin side.

7. Add rice wine vinegar, soy sauce and 1 cup of water. Bring to a simmer.

Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until liquid begins to thicken and eggplants are tender.

Top with peanut mixture and green onion. Serve immediately.

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SPAIN: ROASTED LEEKS WITH ROMESCO SAUCE Yield: 4 servings 2 eggs 3 red bell peppers 1 cup hazelnuts, peeled (if unable to find peeled, follow the instructions in step 4) 2 tablespoons baking soda (if following step 4) 4 cloves garlic, skin on 2 large or 4 small leeks 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided 2 tablespoons sherry vinegar One 15-ounce can fire roasted tomatoes

PREPARATION:

1. Place rack at the top of the oven and broil on high. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil.

2. On the baking sheet, place bell peppers and garlic cloves and broil for 20 minutes, using tongs to rotate every 3 minutes.

Skin on peppers should be completely black and blistered.

3. In a mixing bowl, add peppers and cover with plastic wrap. Set aside for 10 minutes to steam. Remove the stems and seeds. Peel off skin. Set aside.

4. In a large saucepan, boil 1 cup water.

Add hazelnuts and baking soda. Boil for 3 minutes. Transfer hazelnuts to a colander and rinse with cold water. Peel hazelnuts.

5. Heat oven to 375 F. Line 2 baking sheets with aluminum foil.

6. Add garlic cloves and peeled hazelnuts to one baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes.

7. Remove the tough outer leaves from the leeks but keep the top 4-6 inches of tough greens and the bottom roots.

Rise off any dirt off.

8. Add leeks to the second baking sheet.

Rub 2 tablespoons olive oil and 1 teaspoon salt onto leeks. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until leeks are charred on the outside and tender on the inside.

9. Peel garlic cloves. Set aside.

10. In a food processor, blend bell peppers, garlic, hazelnuts, sherry vinegar, canned tomatoes, 1/4 cup olive oil and 1/2 teaspoon salt until smooth to make romesco.

11. Add leeks to a serving dish. Using a spoon, dollop romesco on top. Serve immediately.

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Cancer Wellness

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Be a lifesaver.

I

t’s devastating to hear the words, “You have lung cancer.” For many patients, the disease has already progressed by the time they are diagnosed with it.

But research is giving patients options that just a few years ago, didn’t even exist.

The Lung Cancer Research Foundation exists to fund innovative projects that demonstrate promise and ingenuity – because ultimately, research saves lives.

A community focused on research

Free to Breathe WALK | Oct 2

The Lung Cancer Research Foundation brings the community together to support this important work through events as well as awareness and educational programs. Find out more and Free to Breathe join us for one of this year’s virtual events: YOGA | April 24 LCRF.org/events.

KITES for a Cure | June 26

YOU can change what it means to face a lung cancer diagnosis.

Sign up now at LCRF.org/events

mind 24 FIGHTING THE FATIGUE 26 WHAT COMES NEXT 27 CLAIMING CONTROL 29 ASK THE DOCTOR 30 PICTURE PERFECT

body

Fighting the Fatigue Drowsiness can be a doozy. Oncology nurse, personal trainer and exercise specialist Jenny Spencer is working to help warriors cope with cancer-related fatigue through fitness.

Photo by Sarah Bell

BY TAYLOR NOVAK

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hen you’re too exhausted from treatment to exercise professional and health coach certification orgasimply think or move, exercise may sound nization. She also received certification as an exercise absurd—counterproductive, even. But Jenny specialist. In 2019, Spencer established Fight the Fatigue, Spencer is out to prove otherwise. offering exercise programming to cancer warriors.

Spencer has been a nurse for more than 10 years,

After getting in contact with new clients—either with much of that experience acquired within a variety through social media or referrals from nurses or social of oncology spaces. It’s safe to say she’s been around the workers—Spencer will talk with the warrior to learn about block when it comes to helping warriors manage their their medical history, diagnosis, treatment plan and fitness symptoms at all points in the cancer journey. goals. Spencer has been conducting initial consultations

One particular symptom has always stuck out to virtually since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. This Spencer, though—cancer-related fatigue. Exhaustion consultation serves to assess the warrior’s baselines and from cancer or treatment and the loss of physical funcfunctional status (such as posture or strength). Spencer tioning can decrease a warrior’s quality of life and sense will also examine the warrior’s treatment plan and use her of independence. While other symptoms are more easily oncology nursing background to better accommodate and managed, relieving fatigue isn’t quite as simple. personalize the sessions.

“People tell us they’re nauseous or they’re consti “It’s really important taking cancer treatment into pated, and we give them medications to help ease that. the planning process. Everyone is different,” says Spencer.

Or we know that specific regimens can make you more “It’s taking that knowledge from what their treatments are, nauseous, so we give you something proactively,” Spencer what side effects they may have and then connecting it explains. “And there just wasn’t really anything we were with what muscle imbalances and functional deviations doing to address the fatigue and the loss you saw when they were doing certain of physical functioning.” movements and putting that all together Research has shown that into what workouts they should be doing.”

According to the American Cancer Society, between 80 and 100 percent of in many cases, moderate Spencer stresses that for most warwarriors report having fatigue, which can riors, exercising isn’t going to be about exercise before, during result from a myriad of causes: surgery, running a marathon or transforming low blood counts, infections, changing and after treatment can into a bodybuilder. She uses exercise as hormone levels or even stress. It differs a tool to improve a warrior’s everyday vastly eliminate fatigue physical functioning. In this sense, the from the tired feeling of everyday life people may experience before cancer and and improve quality of life. exercise has not only physical benefits can last weeks, months or years. For some, but emotional and cognitive benefits, too. it can cause more distress than other

As Fight the Fatigue continues to symptoms like pain, nausea or depression. grow, Spencer hopes to recruit more oncology nurses to While some medical teams will encourage warriors to become certified and work with clients, as well as educate be active, there often isn’t a clear-cut plan for safely and both the healthcare professionals and the cancer comeffectively formulating a fitness routine. Other warriors munity about the many benefits of supervised fitness for may find their exercise and healthy living goals get pushed fatigue. to the wayside during treatment or not even addressed in “There’s this loss of control and independence that the first place. happens with [cancer],” says Spencer. “And exercise is

“It really pulled on my heartstrings knowing that such a powerful tool to empower you, to get that control we could be doing more, and we should be doing more,” back and feel like, ‘OK, yes, I have cancer, but my body Spencer says. “We used to tell patients, especially when I can still function and move. And I can still take care of it first started as an oncology nurse 10 years ago, to just rest, and improve my outcomes in the long run.’” take it easy. And I think a lot of people still believe that’s what they should be doing.”

Every warrior’s case is different and for some, limited activity may make sense during a certain chapter of their journey. But research has shown that in many cases, moderate exercise before, during and after treatment can vastly eliminate fatigue and improve quality of life.

According to a 2015 study in Journal of Physiotherapy, “Supervised physical activity has a favorable effect on cancer-related fatigue when compared with conventional care,” and is effective in the management of cancer-related fatigue for all types of cancer. Exercising under the guidance of a health professional improves adherence and intensity, as well as provides a sense of encouragement and confidence to the warrior.

After reviewing studies that suggested similar results and even conducting her own, Spencer decided to take To learn more about Jenny Spencer and Fight the Fatigue, visit her involvement to the next level and received personal fight-the-fatigue.com or @fightthefatiguefitness on Instagram. trainer certification through ACE, a leading nonprofit You can also contact Spencer at jenny@fight-the-fatigue.com.

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WHAT COMES NEXT In this issue’s column, cW’s resident cancer coach Mirela Kopier explores the importance of living well and being your own advocate beyond conventional means.

BY MIRELA KOPIER

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Cancer Wellness

Photo by Sarah Bell

A

vegetables, grains with no dairy, no meat and nothing proccording to the Global Cancer Facts and Figures, cessed. She tapped into these tools during her battle with Fourth Edition, published by the American Cancer great determination and eventually, great success. During Society, the estimated number of new cancer cases this time, my mom and I also opened up a small health food worldwide in 2018 was more than 17 million. By store in a small town in northern Illinois. She was able to 2040, researchers expect that number to reach 27.5 million. immerse herself in an array of holistic therapies due to the When I read that, I thought, ‘What are we doing wrong? Are store. She also ended up taking classes from The Herbal we teaching our children the best preventative methods? Is Academy that taught her how to mix herbs for the best that something we can do?’ I sure hope so. cancer treatments and how to make

In this issue of Cancer Wellness, the most potent tinctures. Although many of the articles discuss the disease If we keep our body strong we eventually closed our store, I am on a global scale. Let’s face it—cancer by feeding it the fuel it needs truly grateful that it gave my mom one doesn’t care where you live. As a holistic more resource to fight her battle with cancer coach, I frequently lean on comphysically, emotionally, cervical cancer and win. plementary and alternative medicine spiritually and mentally, Cancer doesn’t care if you speak (CAM) in place of or in conjunction a different language or do things a with conventional treatment methods. it will enable us to better little differently than your neighbor.

CAM is most effective when we rememovercome many diseases, The disease still shows up. With the ber to take care of our immune systems. including cancer. number of new cases growing worldIt is easy to forget about this aspect of wide, we have to work on sharing our health. If we keep our body strong our triumphs and continuing to find alternative paths by feeding it the fuel it needs physically, emotionally, spirituthat work. We need to teach our children to be their own ally and mentally, it will enable us to better overcome many biggest cheerleaders so we can see those cancer rates dip. diseases, including cancer. However, no one treatment is right for everyone, including CAM. I urge anyone with cancer to Stay well and enlightened, until next time! find the treatment best suited for them.

Consider Slovenia. According to the World Health Organization, Slovenia had some of the highest cervical cancer rates in the world during the 1960s. Those numbers increased in the 1990s. With considerable determination from a small group of cervical cancer advocates, Slovenia developed ZORA, their nationwide screening program.

The group shifted from opportunistic screenings to regular screenings and they found a monumental drop in cases. Doctors at these screening facilities throughout the country stress the importance of regular checkups. We are our best advocates and should be our own biggest fans.

We should do whatever we can to take care of ourselves. If we eat right and exercise regularly, we should also make appointments to get our bits and pieces checked out.

My mom, a 15-year cervical cancer survivor, did just that. She scheduled a screening to check her bits and pieces and was diagnosed with stage IV cervical cancer.

She was also her biggest advocate, and when her doctor said, “We have to get you into a chemo and radiation therapy treatment, yesterday,” she let him know that she wanted to take another path, before walking out of his office. She returned a year later, cancer free!

Growing up in Romania, my mom had a lot of old-school holistic and herbal remedies handed down from her grandmother. The biggest one was herbal and Epsom salt baths to remove toxins in conjunction with meditation and visualization exercises. She also returned to a simple diet of fruits,

CONTROL

While pushing for the option of women taking matters into their own hands when it comes to birth control, Saundra Pelletier was doing the same with her breast cancer diagnosis.

Photo by R. Kimberly Motos

BY BRITT JULIOUS

Cancer Wellness

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“M

y life was and has been very, very commitwas before cancer, that it’s not reality that it is never going ted to doing what I can for equality,” says to be, I was changed. I like myself better now. I had to Saundra Pelletier, the founder and CEO release that idea.” of Evofem Biosciences, a women’s sexual

Part of her healing process involved incorporating health NGO. Last year, after a five-year FDA approval both Eastern and Western medicine practices to combat process, Evofem launched Phexxi, the first non-hormonal her cancer from all sides. “I am going to treat this [like] birth control gel for women. Evofem’s revolutionary new how I treat everything else, which is, I kill a fly with a product is a game changer for those within and outside sledgehammer. And sometimes that’s not the best strategy, of the cancer community, but bringing such a product but I still do it,” she emphasizes. to market was an extra difficult test for Pelletier who was

While undergoing traditional Western treatments simultaneously battling stage III breast cancer. like chemotherapy and surgery (in addition to a double

“Women’s health, in my opinion, was never taken mastectomy, she also underwent a hysterectomy and as seriously as it should be,” says Pelletier. Whether it be oophorectomy), Pelletier also received regular lymphatic through innovation or funding (as explored in this issue’s massages, acupuncture and vitamin C treatments through story “Breaking Barriers,” p. 67), women researchers, physian IV. She incorporated daily meditation and used an cians and patients are often at a distinct disadvantage when infrared sleeping bag. She even flew to Spain to meet with it comes to their health. This reality inspired Pelletier to an oncologist who uses mushroom therapies. According launch Evofem in 2009 to support the sustainable supply of to Pelletier, the plan was to attack the cancer from all sides contraception in the developing world. As the CEO of the to give her the best chance of survival. “I am going to do company, Pelletier raised more than $400 million dollars everything, every single day, including exercise, to try to to gain FDA approval for Phexxi as well as expand access kill this cancer in every way possible,” she says. across the globe. But during the middle of all of her efforts, Her efforts were successful. something even more challenging arose: breast cancer.

“Your inner dialogue is everything,” begins Pelletier.

Pelletier had always taken her health “If you believe you are in the right hands seriously, but her history with fibrocystic care, if you believe you’re doing the “Women’s health, in and breasts left her unprepared for the reality right things every day, if you believe you’re of cancer. With no family history and no my opinion, was never surrounded by the right kinds of people, genetic connection, Pelletier’s diagnosis the right attitudes … if you feel good and taken as seriously as you of a “very aggressive, very late-stage breast feed yourself good information about it should be.” cancer” came as a shock. your recovery and your ability to survive, it “I said to [my doctor], I am not going to is game changing.” tell anybody, but this is one of those times that you have

Last year, Phexxi also received its FDA approval. the wrong patient chart. There is no chance this is right.

After investing $150 million to bring Phexxi to the market, There is just no chance,” recalls Pelletier.

Pelletier is now educating oncologists about the product.

However, after the initial shock wore off, Pelletier “Women manage their fertility for decades and the burden approached her initial diagnosis like she approaches most and responsibility, no matter how good some men are, it’s things in life—by taking action. “It was like something on the woman,” says Pelletier. With more than 21 million came over me,” says Pelletier. “If it needs to get done, I will women not using any form of hormonal birth control, Phexxi do it right now. I am not a procrastinator.” Within a month provides a great opportunity, including for cancer warriors of her diagnosis, she began chemotherapy and received a and thrivers, to take control of their reproductive health. double mastectomy. She also opted for aesthetic flat closure.

“I’ve learned you can only control two things. You

Besides any health fears, Pelletier was afraid of any can control what you feed your body and what you feed potential complications with her work. Many cancer warriors your mind. So garbage in, garbage out. Positive things in, work during their treatment, and Pelletier was no exception. positive things out,” says Pelletier. “We’re excited for the “I worked my way up the corporate ladder for 25 years and women who don’t want to put a hormone into their body then I thought, ’And now cancer is going to take it away from every day, but we’re excited for the women who can’t put a me. That’s not going to happen,’” recalls Pelletier. hormone into their body either. It’s really important.”

Her biggest concern was what she described as the “male investment community.” Would the board of her company ask her to step down? Could her diagnosis negatively affect fundraising for her contraceptive? Would her competitors threaten her hard work? “I was 100 percent thinking to myself, how can I preserve my strength and my integrity? How can I continue to show people that I can still maintain my post?” Pelletier says.

Although the timing was not ideal, Pelletier persevered in large part by accepting the reality of her diagnosis rather than try to deny it. “This is not going to be something that you just power through in the way that you’ve powered through all these other obstacles,” Pelletier Saundra Pelletier is the CEO, president and executive director of recalls her friends and family telling her. “When I finally Evofem Biosciences. For more information on Phexxi, the company’s allowed myself to accept the fact that I will never be like I first FDA-approved commercial product, visit phexxi.com.

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ASK THE DOCTOR Colorectal cancer is increasingly no longer a disease that affects only older adults.

Dr. Zuri Murrell explains why younger people are experiencing higher rates and how to stay healthy.

BY BRITT JULIOUS

D

Photo courtesy of Dr. Zuri Murrell

e spite numerous advancements, colorectal cancer rates continue to rise among younger and younger populations. According to Dr. Zuri Murrell, “colorectal cancer should be almost completely preventable and if caught early, it is almost completely curable.” Yet many young people, especially those in Black and brown communities, are getting diagnosed with the cancer at earlier ages.

Take beloved actor Chadwick Boseman. Best known for his role as Black Panther in the Marvel film of the same name, Boseman passed away unexpectedly last year at the age of 43 after secretly battling the disease (while also working) for years.

Some of the most approachable ways to prevent colorectal cancer include diet and exercise. But the most important may be early screenings.

Colonoscopies are typically recommended for men and women after age 50, but with numbers increasing for younger populations, many in the medical fields are pushing for broader testing guidelines.

“I love the fact that patients have much of the power to prevent this disease,” says Murrell. “I encourage people to be their own health care advocate, meaning being prepared for their doctor’s visit knowing what issues they need addressed and working together with their health care professional so they can live the healthiest, happiest life possible.”

For this issue’s edition of Ask the Doctor, we spoke to Murrell about this cancer.

FOR THIS COLUMN, WE’D LIKE TO FOCUS ON THE RISE IN INCIDENCE RATES IN YOUNG INDIVIDUALS OF COLORECTAL CANCERS. WHY IS THIS HAPPENING? Since the 1990s, the rate of colorectal cancer has doubled in adults younger than 50 years of age. One of the most likely culprits is our obesity epidemic.

Seventy percent of millennials will be obese by the time they reach middle age. Obesity places the body in an inflammatory state which contributes to the occurrence of colorectal cancer.

Moreover, high fat, high red meat, high processed food consumption is also a risk factor for colorectal

cancer independent of obesity. Humans break down red meat into a compound that is pro-carcinogenic.

Combining these factors with physical inactivity becomes a perfect agar for cancer cells to grow.

Unfortunately, colorectal cancer is not on the minds of many young adults nor their doctors. The good news is all of these factors can be curbed. Genetic syndromes in young patients are only thought to be the cause of 10-20 percent of cancers.

WHAT ARE SOME THINGS YOUNG PEOPLE SHOULD KNOW ABOUT COLORECTAL CANCER? Young people, as with all patients, need to be proactive. We all need 25-30 grams of fiber a day. Some delicious options are blackberries, raspberries and kiwi. Fiber helps to eliminate toxins from the body.

Something that is incredibly important is knowing one’s family history, not just about colon cancer but regarding colon polyps found during their parents’ colonoscopies. Knowing this information may allow earlier screening for themselves.

There are also disparities in Black and brown communities. For example, African Americans have a higher chance of being diagnosed at a later stage and a higher mortality rate. Why does that occur? The COVID pandemic showed the world something that colorectal surgeons were already aware of: the significant health care disparities in this country. African Americans have one of the highest rates of colorectal cancer in the world. Part of the reason that this happens in America is that [African Americans] are offered colonoscopies less than their white counterparts and most of the colorectal cancers that African Americans get are on the right side of the colon, which can only be reached during a colonoscopy. Also, African Americans have lower vitamin D levels and that can be easily corrected with supplementation.

I do medical missions to Uganda, and Uganda and Nigeria have some of the lowest rates of colorectal cancer in the world. Their diets are low in red meat, exceptionally low in processed food consumption, and high in fiber. So, doing these things I’ve outlined can have a significant impact on the rate of colorectal cancer.

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Picture Perfect

Say cheese! Cancer survivors find healing lies within the frame through the Framed Portrait Experience.

BY ALYSSE DALESSANDRO SANTIAGO

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any adolescents and young adults struggle with increased ability to face future challenges. self-esteem. For young people battling and

Behind the lens was a portrait photographer who recovering from cancer, treatments can take doubled as a licensed social worker. But it was the survimore than just a physical toll on one’s body. vors who were in the driver’s seat creatively. Participants They can create a lasting impact on mental health and selected three settings and included three objects to repself-image long after remission. resent their past, present and future.

With an ocean between them, two doctors set out to

In an interview with the University of Houston, study what would happen when young cancer survivors Acquiti recounted how one of the participants decided saw themselves in a new light utilizing a technique called to take her “past” portrait with her father while he fixed Framed Portrait Experience (FPE). Dr. Emanuela Saita a car because her father was a constant fixture during is a researcher at the Catholic University of the Sacred her cancer treatment. Her “present” portrait took her to Heart in Milan, Italy and Dr. Chiara Acquati teaches and a riverbank for a serene image of self-reflection. For her researches at the University of Houston. Together, they “future” image, she dressed as a street performer making conducted a study on the efficacy of FPE among young people laugh. adults and adolescents.

“The goal is to retell their stories in contexts mean The Framed Portrait Experience uses both therapeuingful to them,” Acquiti told University of Houston. “It tic photography and re-enactment therapy to promote can be very emotional and challenging, but we hope that increased self-esteem. On the other side of the lens, the by looking back from a distance now that their cancer subject has the creative control to create new photographic treatments are over, they can move forward with their representations through preformative re-enactments. lives.”

Transformation and embodiment are key to this process.

The research duo printed the images and utilized A 2008 study in the European Journal of Psychotherapy them in a clinical interview. Participants completed and Counselling found that photography can be a useful The Body Image Scale to measure their self-esteem as medium in the field of oncology. To conduct a FPE, patients it relates to their body and appearance. The Rosenberg take self portraits during chemotherapy treatment, then Self-Esteem Scale, General Self-Efficacy Scale and Brief they review and discuss the image COPE questionnaire also guided interin a clinical interview at the end of views. Survivors who participated in The Framed Portrait treatment. If successful as an interthe FPE reported higher self esteem.

Experience uses both vention, FPE can aid in coping with The study found that FPE can be an one’s cancer diagnosis and lead to accessible, low-cost and easy-to-impletherapeutic photography positive self-representation. ment intervention. Though the study and re-enactment therapy In February 2020, The Journal worked with a professional photograof Adolescent and Young Adult pher, anyone with a smartphone could to promote increased Oncology published Saita and theoretically help a survivor complete a self-esteem.

Acquati’s study. The study describes Framed Portrait Experience. how the FPE is designed to func Forget zits! While still developing tion: “This intervention is rooted in four guiding princiand learning to love themselves and their bodies, adolesples: first, that cancer originates an affect-laden expericent and young adult cancer survivors face serious health ence; second, by the recognition of the biopsychosocial challenges. After making it to the other side, it’s worth challenges of experiencing cancer during adolescence and reflecting on the impact for one’s mental health. Self poryoung adulthood; third, FPE recognizes the relevance traiture won’t erase any past experience, but it may just be of autobiographical narration for one’s sense of self, and, the key to unlock healing. finally, by the use of photographic portrait as a medium to facilitate this narrative.”

The ability to tell one’s story through portraiture puts the individual in control during an experience where everything else can feel like it’s falling apart. FPE provides the space to express one’s emotions, whatever those emotions may be, surrounding their cancer journey.

To conduct their study, Saita and Acquati recruited 20 individuals who were diagnosed with leukemia between the ages of 12 and 19. At the time of the study, participant ages ranged from 18 to 26 and 55.6 percent were women.

Ten of these participants completed the FPE while the other 10 acted as the control group. Two of the control group did not return completed surveys making the total number of participants 18. All participants also had to have received chemotherapy at the participating institution, a pediatric cancer center in northern Italy. In their concluThe Framed Portrait Experience study was published in the sion, the researchers acknowledged that their sample size Journal of Adolescent and Young Adult Oncology, Vol. 9 No. is small. However, their results showed that FPE can lead 1. To explore more studies centered on AYA cancer from this to increased self-efficacy, a better self-perception and an journal, visit liebertpub.com/loi/jayao.

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beauty 34 CATCHING COUNTERFEIT 36 SUPER CLEAN SOLUTIONS

Catching Counterfeit When looking to secure sought-after name brand cosmetics, don’t bet your health for a bargain.

BY CATHERINE EVES

S

ince 2018, the Los Angeles Police Department has confiscated more than $1 million worth of counterfeit cosmetics from Los Angeles’ Fashion District. This section of LA is known for selling knockoff products — handbags, clothes, shoes and other accessories that are cheaply manufactured to imitate designer pieces without the unattainable price tag. But skincare products and cosmetics are also on offer, usually featuring packaging that is a near-perfect imitation of the real thing.

These counterfeit products can also be mass-produced, creating a surplus of supply that is in complete opposition with legitimate brands’ scarcity marketing tactics. Kylie Cosmetics’ lip kits famously sell out seconds after becoming available on the brand’s website, mostly bolstered by the celebrity of the brand’s founder, reality TV star Kylie Jenner. When fans aren’t able to purchase a Kylie Cosmetics product, they might end up unknowingly purchasing a counterfeit product at an unlicensed location or online.

While counterfeit clothes and accessories might have a negative impact on a brand’s bottom line, counterfeit cosmetics are much more of a concern for the individual consumer. This is because counterfeit cosmetics, like those seized in the LA raids, have been found to contain harmful bacteria, toxic chemicals

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and, perhaps worst of all, cancer-causing carcinogens.

Cancer Wellness has reported extensively on the loosely regulated cosmetics industry (see “The Devious Language of Cosmetics,” “Cleaning Up the Cosmetics Industry” and “Beauty & the Beast”), but legitimate cosmetics companies are still required to follow certain governmental regulations before they can be marketed and sold in department stores and beauty boutiques.

Counterfeit cosmetics, however, bypass any type of government oversight designed to keep consumers safe.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not require that cosmetics products have its approval before going to market, but laws like the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act) and the Fair Packaging and Labeling Act (FPLA) must be followed. The FD&C Act prohibits marketing of “adulterated” cosmetics, meaning those that contain “any poisonous or deleterious substance which may render it injurious to users,” or contain “any filthy, putrid, or decomposed substance,” according to the FDA’s website. The Act also prohibits “misbranding,” meaning false or misleading labeling.

By very definition, counterfeit cosmetics are guilty of misbranding, as they are attempted replicas of legitimate products. And many counterfeit cosmetics have also allegedly been produced in facilities

with unsanitary working conditions (or sometimes on an algorithm that can push the cheapest version to even on private property, like someone’s personal the front of the shelf,” the article says. garage or basement) — the result of which can lead The Wirecutter article also reports on various investo serious health problems in users like infections tigations that uncovered thousands of unsafe product listfrom human or animal waste contamination. ings on Amazon, ranging from counterfeit cosmetics to

According to Dr. Tanya Khan, a board-certiexpired food. The piece darkly concludes with the line, fied ophthalmologist and oculoplastic surgeon, any “Welcome to the era of fake products.” As technology makeup, regardless of whether it contains harmful advances and more consumers gain access to the interbacteria, can irritate the face and eyes if it is not net, you can expect the counterfeit trade to only trend cleaned properly. “We really encourage having good upward. That’s why consumers who want to feel confieyelid hygiene no matter what type of cosmetics you dent about their safety and well-being will have no choice use,” Khan says. “With counterfeit cosmetics, the but to spend that much extra time and money doing the list of ingredients is not known, and there’s oftenresearch and buying straight from a verified source. times things like animal waste product or impure, This could be easier said than done. If a product non-sterilized ingredients. [...] And that can lead to is received as a gift, for instance, it might be difficult pretty severe eyelid or eye infections.” to confirm where it was purchased. Or maybe you’ve Painful or difficult to treat infections are unpleashad a good experience at places like eBay or Amazon ant, but non-sterilized or foreign objects in the eye and you don’t want to write those sites off entirely. If can theoretically change the architecture of the eye this sounds familiar, there are some other precautions itself, according to Khan. “That’s when we worry a consumer can take. about a potential cancer.”

Many victims of counterfeit cosmetics share the Carcinogens are a separate issue entirely. The experience of detecting if something is counterfeit most prevalent carcinogens that have been found in based on consistency or smell. This is easier for prodcounterfeit cosmetics are the heavy metals arsenic, ucts for which someone might be familiar — a favorberyllium and cadmium. Exposure to ite fragrance lacks its signature scent, The most prevalent heavy metals can cause cardiovascuor a trusted lipstick doesn’t glide on lar and neurological diseases, as well carcinogens that have as smoothly as normal. These are the as various cancers, due to how they of clear counterfeits. been found in counterfeit marks damage DNA. The American Cancer Price, however, is the most important cosmetics are the heavy signifier of counterfeit. A February Society notes that arsenic exposure can cause lung, bladder and skin cancers, metals arsenic, beryllium 2018 article in InStyle magazine but ACS also links arsenic exposure to notes that brand-name products will and cadmium. elevated risk of kidney, liver and proshave similar price points no matter tate cancers. There is also a wealth of where they are sold — so the MAC research available about how other heavy metals are lipsticks going for a fraction of their usual price defilinked to increased cancer risk. nitely are too good to be true.

But it’s not only street vendors hawking poten Labels are helpful in spotting counterfeits, too. tially dangerous products. Counterfeit cosmetics InStyle notes uneven fonts, misspellings and even have also infiltrated online megastores, like Amazon incorrect shade names should be clear giveaways, as and eBay. Counterfeits have even been found on well as other packaging inconsistencies, like ill-fitthe shelves of an Australian Target, according to a ting containers, exposed cardboard or labels that November 2017 article in Allure magazine. are slightly off-color when compared with legitimate Unfortunately, it’s almost impossible for Amazon counterparts. Fortunately, most of these things can and similar sites to adequately prevent sales of couneasily be cross-referenced on brand websites or with terfeit products, despite advanced algorithms targetproducts you already have at home. ing this very thing. Most counterfeit products come So, the next time you’re searching for the latest, from unvetted third-party sellers who now account for trendiest cosmetic, or happen upon a deal that seems 54 percent of all sales on Amazon (about $160 billion too good to be true, make sure you do your homeannually) — a significant increase from the 3 percent work. “You really can’t trust the validity unless you recorded in the year 2000, according to a February are purchasing these products from a licensed store 2020 story on the New York Times’ product review or professional,” Khan says. “If it’s an Estee Lauder website Wirecutter. Wirecutter also notes that a single product but it was purchased where you wouldn’t product page could include listings from both the legit[normally] purchase Estee Lauder, do a comparison imate manufacturer as well as third-party sellers. “It’s check to make sure you’re using the real thing, and if as though those back-alley and swap-meet sellers have it’s not [you should] probably trash it, or let someone gotten to put their wares inside the store, on the same know the product might be compromised.” Your shelf as the real goods. And product placement relies health is at stake.

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Super Clean Solutions In need of a refreshing reset?

Turn self-care up a notch this season with four products guaranteed to give any waning winter blues the final boot.

REVIEWED BY CAYLEI VOGELZANG

LO & BEHOLD ECHINACEA & CHAMOMILE CLEANSING BALM

AVAILABLE AT LOANDBEHOLDNATURALS.COM, $28

ALO MAGNESIUM RESET SPRAY

This refreshing spray feels like the cool mist of the sea while sitting on a lovely tropical beach. Texturally light and lovely with faint notes of coconut and pineapple, this product is wonderful when used just after bathing and tucking in for the night. I am loving the convenience of the spray application and I have instinctively reached for it recently in moments when I find myself in a challenging mental space. Do not use this spray if you have cracked or fragile skin because it may sting.

AVAILABLE AT ALOYOGA.COM, $48

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Photos by Sarah Bell

Handmade in North Carolina, this subtly floral cleansing oil is enchanting with a juicy consistency belying its carefully selected ingredients. The nose is hit first with summer chamomile, honey and vanilla in an instant and sets the expectation for a gentle, oily ride. What’s more, the company takes education and sustainability very seriously and donates a portion of the proceeds from product sales to causes their customers believe in.

ALO HEAD-TO-TOE GLOW OIL

This luxurious oil features a harmonious, slightly sweet blend of some of my favorite oils including avocado and marula. Its star component is the vitamin c rich amla superberry, also known as an Indian GooseBerry, an antioxidant-rich ingredient in ayurvedic medicine known for its healing and anti-aging potential.

Additional fan-favorites like aloe and turmeric make this lightweight body oil spread easily and absorb quickly.

AVAILABLE AT ALOYOGA.COM, $48

TRILOGY CREAM CLEANSER

Trilogy is a New Zealand brand founded by two sisters looking for natural answers to their sensitive skin woes. Rosehip oil is a central ingredient to the Trilogy skincare line as a whole, as well as the star ingredient in this classic cleanser, a one-step cleanser that is great for lightweight makeup days.

It is extremely mild, non-drying and has a refined, smooth texture.

AVAILABLE AT TRILOGYPRODUCTS.COM, $23

Disclaimer: This is not medical advice. The products and their descriptions are written from the perspective of their author, Caylei Vogelzang, who makes no claim other than to her opinion. The section is meant for entertainment purposes only and reflects the sole opinion of its author.

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Complementary Medicine 41 UNDER THE INFLUENCE 43 OUR EMOTIONAL VOCABULARY

Under the Influence Psychedelics are entering the mainstream with potent potential to ease cancer side effects of the existential variety.

BY BRITT JULIOUS

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ecreational users of psychedelics like MDMA, MDMA-assisted psychotherapy may offer a solution acid, LSD and DMT have often described their by helping warriors embrace acceptance of their illness. experiences as transformational. Whether psyAccording to Feduccia, participants in the study tolerated chedelics help people release trauma from their treatment “very well,” meaning there were not any signifipast or unleash new truths about their present, they can cant or serious adverse outcomes that came from using the often provide an experience beyond a means of temporary psychedelic. More importantly, researchers saw a signifiescape from reality. It’s no surprise then that the use of cant improvement in anxiety, depression, outlook on life psychedelics has migrated to the scientific research world, and post-traumatic use with MDMA-assisted psychotherespecially as it relates to the new cancer community. apy compared to baseline. “They just conveyed that they

According to a 2018 report published in the felt a lot of resolution around their illness, approaching International Review of Psychiatry, “promising eardeath, leaving behind family,” Feduccia says. ly-phase clinical research (1960s to 1970s) suggested a Feduccia emphasizes that this type of treatment is not therapeutic signal for serotonergic psychedelics (e.g. psiabout just taking psychedelics every single day to control locybin, LSD) in treating cancer-related psychiatric dissymptoms. No, it is more about helping warriors process tress.” Furthermore, “psychedelic-assisted treatment can their experience through a guided form of psychotherapy. produce rapid, robust, and sustained improvements in “It’s got to really be about combining the MDMA with psycancer-related psychological and existential distress.” chotherapy,” she says. “What we’ve observed is that people One 2016 report from the Journal of Psychopharmacology are more [open] under the influence of MDMA to maybe found that “high-dose psilocybin produced large decreases talk about things that are really difficult or painful. It can in clinician- and self-rated measures of depressed mood and also bring in new insights, or different perspectives on a anxiety, along with increases in quality of life, life meaning, situation like their life.” and optimism” among 51 cancer patients in a randomized,

Participants often feel more connected to their double-blind, cross-over trial. therapy team and the MDMA facilitates a level of trust and Alli Feduccia, a neuropharmacologist and the execubonding that might not have existed without the medicine. tive director of Project New Day, a 501(c) Although the exact mechanisms aren’t (3) not-for-profit organization helping In some ways, a cancer completely understood, Feduccia believes people overcome addiction through it may be tied to the serotonin and oxytodiagnosis is as much a cin effects of the MDMA itself. the use of psychedelics, worked at the Multidisciplinary Association for physical illness as it is Through their research, Feduccia Psychedelic Studies (MAPS) for five hopes that warriors may soon “get to a an existential crisis that place where they can accept and feel okay years. During her time at MAPS, she also participated in a different research with where they are and have their focus spreads beyond a trial looking at MDMA-assisted psybe on how they can make the most of their warrior’s body. chotherapy for people with anxiety and life and their time here on Earth.” In the life-threatening illnesses, primarily future, researchers would likely develop a cancer. This multi-year, randomized study was the basis larger study with a placebo control for a greater number of for a 2020 report published in the scientific journal Nature warriors. highlighting the effectiveness of psychedelics as a treatment A future study may broaden the scope. Most of their for the psychological side effects of active cancer treatment. participants were white and came from higher income Although the sample size was small (out of only 18 brackets. People with different illnesses or within differparticipants, five were randomized to receive the placebo), ent age groups or stemming from different racial, ethnic their research utilized a number of study measures, from and/or socioeconomic backgrounds deserve to feel the anxiety and depression to quality of life. same effects from this type of treatment.

“[For many] people that receive these diagnoses, End-of-life care is still very medically oriented, resultthere’s a lot of focus on treating the physical symptoms ing in warriors spending an excess amount on their health. of the illness [or] eliminat[ing] the cancer in the body, In the future, psychedelics may also play a role in helping but there’s a lot less attention and focus put on a person’s people achieve acceptance of their reality, rather than mental well-being or how they are coping or processavoiding it by any means. ing with the illness,” says Feduccia. “And what can also

“With substances like psilocybin or LSD, a lot of happen is that the treatments themselves can be really times people do feel what’s called “ego dissolution” or this difficult or psychologically stressful and demanding. It’s expansive feeling of connecting with the universe [and] hard on the body itself, but then the mental parts of that something beyond their own self,” adds Feduccia. “This can also be really hard.” may be a whole new way that people can manage better at A cancer diagnosis adds an additional layer of anxiety the end, and maybe also gives their families some comfort by often forcing individuals to face their own mortality. In cues to see a person really have dignity and grace as they some ways, a cancer diagnosis is as much a physical illness approach the next big chapter.” as it is an existential crisis that spreads beyond a warrior’s body to the livelihoods of their loved ones. What is To find clinical trials in your area that may be researching unresolved from one’s life? Will one leave behind missed therapeutic psychedelics usage, visit clinicaltrials.gov. You can opportunities? That sort of reflection can be daunting for also explore psychedelic therapies through Field Trip Health, even someone who has lived a long and rich life. What can a company that blends legal psychedelic-enhanced therapy, it do to someone who feels their life is getting cut short? mindfulness and self-care in its sessions, at fieldtriphealth.com.

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Our Emotional Vocabulary Feelings aren’t always black and white. There’s an entire emotional vocabulary to be discovered by opening your heart and your mind.

BY ELIZABETH TUCKWELL

I

learned recently that in the Tamil language, there are more than 50 words for “love.” What a gift to Tamil speakers that a feeling as deep and multifaceted as love would have a language that honors its nuances.

Reflecting on the English words for feelings, I realized we are extremely limited in honoring the sophistication of our emotions through our language. Our limited range only gives us a narrow filter for which to describe and translate the complexity of our life experiences to ourselves and others. It is like going to a new country, learning only a few words of the language and attempting to explain your whole life to someone from that country using only those few words. You are left with a void and forced to use simple generalizations to convey the depth of your life.

This past month, my young daughter and I moved to a new home. Moving comes with its own whirlwind of emotions. Combine that with the reality of our pandemic, homeschooling and working full time and one may have to delay emotions to keep moving. This is easier said than done.

A few nights after our move, my daughter turned to me as she was beginning to fall asleep and started to cry.

“Mom, I am sad and I don’t know why. Because I am really not sad. I am really happy.” I told her that she only knew the word “sad” to describe what she was feeling, but in truth, she wasn’t sad. She was finally in a safe space to let her feelings run free. She could emotionally process all of the events that had happened at once.

Feelings have their own timeline. They are not logical, linear experiences. With only a limited range of words to describe our feelings, we can easily mislabel what we are feeling and use emotional definitions by someone else. If we only reflect through a narrow lens, we miss the spectrum of what we can truly receive and learn from our complex feelings—a deeper understanding of ourselves.

Internationally, we are moving through uncharted emotional territory—we face highs and lows and openings and closings of emotions like never before. We are still trying to

filter them through the small tunnel of a few words to describe our feelings. But if we can begin to step out of pre-defined and outdated definitions of emotional experiences, we can create a unique vocabulary that serves our evolution.

My daughter now recognizes that when she feels emotional heaviness after a major transition in life, she knows what her body is trying to tell her. She is learning her own emotional vocabulary. She will later listen to what her body wants when she feels these feelings, whether it be more rest, water, a good night’s sleep or a salt bath. She will be able to support her body as her emotions guide her to what she needs. It is a beautiful dance.

Once we embark on creating our own emotional vocabulary, we can chart an emotional course for our feelings.

Oftentimes, these emotions propel us toward new beginnings.

I call these “exit emotions.” This heaviness can lead us toward new chapters while lifting the layers of our previous selves.

How do we create our own emotional navigation system?

Begin where you are. Notice how you feel now. Allow yourself some silence, removing external noises. Move into a meditative state if you can. Ask yourself about yourself. How do you feel right now? Witness the way you feel from a detached perspective. Don’t swim in the sea of your emotions.

Get a piece of paper and a pen and write down the answers you receive without adding logic to them. Allow the answers to flow without judgement.

Think of recent events that brought you to this moment.

Were there any experiences that deregulated you? Is there something or someone who has affected your life? How is your life right now? Do you feel constrained or free? These questions allow you to witness your unique self and respond to your life. You can also begin to recognize when emotions are ready to be processed. These feelings are looking for permission to move on. Keep a journal of events and pair them with feelings to build your emotional vocabulary. In viewing our emotions in this light, we honor them, honor ourselves and empower others to do the same.

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Photo by Kaye Ford

46 REAL TALK 52 THE THRIVER 53 FOR THE LOVE OF BASEBALL

Entertainment

REAL TALK

In all of her unfiltered and unabashed glory, GIRLvsCANCER founder Lauren Mahon has set out to show young women that they are more than a diagnosis.

BY TAYLOR NOVAK PHOTOGRAPHY BY HOLLY McGLYNN

A

t 31, cancer was the last thing on Lauren Mahon’s mind.

The Londoner had recently landed a managerial role in social media and moved out of her parents’ home into an apartment, enjoying her first taste of proper independence. Her energy went toward nights out with friends, attending gigs and festivals, and grand plans for holiday trips. “Your 30s are the best years of your life,” popular culture insists, and Mahon was staged to prove it.

So, when she accidentally found a lump in her breast in May of 2016, she didn’t think much of it. She waited for the completion of her cycle to see if it went away; instead it grew painful.

Mahon visited a walk-in clinic at a hospital sometime in early July, where it was confirmed she did indeed have a lump in her breast that may benefit from further scans. However, having just moved and not yet set up with a general practitioner, Mahon was unable to receive the proper referral to do so.

But the doctor at the clinic assured her that it likely wasn’t anything serious.

“He was like, ‘I’m sure it’s nothing to worry about. You’re young and you’re healthy,’” Mahon recalls. “So, I just went off and had a summer.”

The doctor’s absence of concern due to Mahon’s age and medical history left her feeling confident that the lump in her breast was something minor—something that wasn’t life-threatening or perhaps was the odd fluke that our bodies are inclined to experience now and then.

“But then it got to be all this time, and it was still there,” Mahon says. In August, at her mother’s insistence, Mahon visited a general practitioner. A week later, she took a morning off from work and headed to a referred breast clinic for what she assumed would be a casual appointment. It turned out to be anything but.

“It was such a weird thing of being on the ultrasound table, just chatting away with the radiographers and everything like that, and then the room just changing,” Mahon says. “It’s still so vivid, that energetic shift in the room.

And [the consultant] didn’t say anything, just marched over to one of the more senior members of staff who was like, ‘Lauren, we have to biopsy you.’”

Afterwards, Mahon’s doctors informed her that something looked “suspicious” and it could be cancer. Mahon was shocked. Even during the biopsy, she hadn’t thought of the possibility of cancer—she was just focused on getting through the procedure. The word “cancer” had never entered her brain, but now it was all she could think about.

In the days leading up to finding out the definitive results of her biopsy, friends and family assured Mahon with steadfast conviction that it couldn’t be cancer. As much as she wanted to believe them, she found it difficult to do so. “It was a horrible feeling of knowing in my gut that it wasn’t going to be OK but hoping that it would be,” says Mahon. “It’s just a really horrible, horrible anxious time.”

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HAIR: PAOLA PINTO @PAOLASOFIAPINTO MAKEUP: LAURRETTA POWER STYLIST: DANIELLE WARD

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“It’s not just about my stories, it’s about new ones.”

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“We have all these big life milestones, why does cancer have to be the first one for me?”

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On the day Mahon was slated to receive her results, her mom and younger brother accompanied her to the doctor’s office, where they held her hand, blinking back tears as Mahon was told she had an aggressive 2.8-centimeter grade III cancerous lump in her right breast.

While treatable, the treatment would likely induce an early menopause and leave Mahon infertile. Mahon hadn’t yet given much thought about having children someday, and suddenly she was being asked to decide if she wanted to preserve eggs immediately after being told she had cancer. “It’s like the world fell around me,” Mahon recalls.

In the weeks that followed, Mahon went through a period of deep grief, something especially unique to those who experience cancer as young adults and are faced with their own mortality.

She slept in her parents’ bed for days and found herself bursting into tears while having a drink in pubs with friends. Already having health anxiety prior, Mahon says her diagnosis robbed her of any remaining innocence—any pain or cough instantly transformed into an insidious warning bell, the quick draw from a pal’s cigarette was now a ticking time bomb.

And, at least in the beginning, the diagnosis also robbed Mahon of her perceived future.

“I thought, ‘We have all these big life milestones, why does cancer have to be the first one for me? Why did that happen? There’s so much of my life that I haven’t lived yet,’” Mahon says. “I was terrified that I would never get those things.”

According to Cancer Research UK, the rates of cancers in young people have increased by 28 percent since the early 1990s, with cancer rates in females increasing by 40 percent. Young people with cancer is an underserved demographic across the globe, with risk factors being misunderstood and support often being lackluster.

Mahon experienced this firsthand as she scoured the internet in the early stages of her diagnosis. “I was looking for women like me: my age, my kind of interests, my worldviews. Someone I could look at and go, ‘She’s a bit of me,’” Mahon explains. “And I struggled to find them.” There was so much about the process that Mahon felt utterly in the dark about.

Mahon today is unapologetically herself—a bright force with contagious energy, slipping in unfiltered quips all while masterfully balancing vulnerability and an air of intrigue. When scrolling through her Instagram feed, it’s difficult to imagine her as reserved and self-contained.

In reality, Mahon didn’t share her own story publicly online until her first week of chemotherapy in October of 2016. Seeing the lack of cancer narratives from somebody like herself, she pushed through her hesitancy and “grabbed her breast cancer diagnosis by the boobs,” deciding to write her own narrative.

Using the blog that she already owned, as well as her Instagram, Mahon began posting about her experiences with cancer under #GIRLvsCANCER. She hoped doing so would not only educate and unite women her age with cancer but empower them as well. She crafted posts teeming with authenticity that detailed the ugly but unavoidable parts of being a young adult with cancer, from loneliness to financial strain. “[Cancer] just wasn’t what I thought,” Mahon says. “Now, I know it like the back of my hand. But back then it was so overwhelming, and I had just wished that I could have a cup of tea with someone, like a friend, who had been through it and talked to them. That’s why I started speaking about it.”

GIRLvsCANCER has since grown into an established community, featuring entries about all sorts of cancer-related topics from women with all sorts of cancer types. To Mahon, it was imperative to feature the narratives of women other than herself.

“It’s not just about my stories, it’s about new ones,” Mahon says. “I want to be able to support everybody and not just be ‘The Cancer Girl’ and put myself in that position because it’s not realistic. I’ve got one version of cancer. There’s so many millions of versions of the disease and stories. It’s not just mine.”

Mahon is now in remission from invasive ductal carcinoma, and while she’s very much ready to embrace no longer fully “living in cancer” online (keep an eye out for a personal website launch coming this August), she doesn’t think she’ll leave GIRLvsCANCER behind anytime soon. In addition to co-hosting her BBC podcast “You, Me and the Big C,” Mahon plans to continue developing GIRLvsCANCER into a wealth of information and community for other young women experiencing life-changing diagnoses.

“It started out as something to support people, even just one girl, and the fact that I now have so many people in the community, that I’ve got amazing friends and that the thing that connects us is cancer but we’re all such individual women and we’re amazing—I just want to give that empowerment to people,” Mahon says. “You’re more than your diagnosis and you don’t need to be defined by it.”

“[Cancer] just wasn’t what I thought.”

Keep up with Lauren Mahon on Instagram at @iamlaurenmahon. To find out more about GIRLvsCANCER, visit girlvscancer.co.uk.

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the thriver

KATE HALEBLIAN AS TOLD TO BRITT JULIOUS

I was just your normal high school student.

I was gearing up, getting ready to apply for colleges, trying to figure out what I wanted to do with my life. Around the first week of February 2010, I [got] really sick. I had shortness of breath, I was lacking energy, I was retaining a bunch of water and I had high fevers. Nobody could quite figure out what was going on. Right around that same time, my best friend had just gotten diagnosed with mono so we [thought], “Oh, thank goodness. This has to be it. No way could it be anything else.” [But] sure enough, it was not mono.

I had a lot of pain under my right arm and near my right elbow. When I was 16, I found out I was BRCA positive. I knew down the road, I would probably get preventative surgery and [testing]. A surgeon said, “Well, it’s either infected lymph nodes, lymphoma or breast cancer.” At that point, I had never heard the word lymphoma before. I didn’t even know what lymph nodes were. I thought, “Well, I hope it’s either an infected lymph node or lymphoma,” without even knowing lymphoma was cancer.

To hear more from Kate, visit cancerwellness.com

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Finally, I got a full biopsy of the lymph node under my arm. I also had pneumonia, so while I was undergoing surgery, I went into respiratory failure because my lungs were more than 70 percent full of fluid. They intubated me and put me into a medically induced coma. They knew then I had cancer. I was in the coma for about two weeks. I started chemo while I was under the coma.

As a young person, I [associated] cancer with death and so I worried, am I going to die? [But] I decided I wasn’t going to die. I decided that wasn’t an option, and that I was going to fight it and beat it and come out completely resilient and get my life going.

I luckily have and had the most incredible support system who helped keep me lifted up. I’m kind of headstrong and when I have my mind set on something, there’s no going back. I knew I had so much more to do in this world and ending it that short was absolutely not an option.

When they say nothing lit up, that’s the best thing on the planet. I knew that that was going to happen, but to actually accomplish it is still my most major accomplishment in my whole life. That being said, it was a challenge that while people act like it’s a heroic or honorable thing to beat cancer, that was the option. There was no other way out of it. It’s not really something to be idolized. The intent of doing chemo is to beat cancer and nobody that beats cancer asked for it. It’s kind of a weird thing. Sure, I set my mind to it and beat it, but it wasn’t a challenge I was going to choose to overcome.

It was a strange thing to wrap my brain around.

Photo by John Khuu

I had never heard the word lymphoma before.

I didn’t even know what lymph nodes were.

For the Love of

Baseball After her mother passed away from cancer, Katie Russell Newland went on the trip of a lifetime for any baseball fan in order to get closer to her.

Photo courtesy of Kathryn Pasche

BY TAYLOR NOVAK

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here are five universally recognized love lantheater. She didn’t know much about the film “Wild,” but guages; that is, the ways we express or experias she sat there watching the story unfold on screen, she ence love with those close to us. They range from knew it couldn’t be a mere happenstance that it was the quality time to acts of service, and everyone has movie she ended up seeing. one main way they prefer to communicate. Katie Russell

Based on the best-selling book by Cheryl Strayed, Newland’s mother had a sixth option, seemingly out of left “Wild” depicts a daughter embarking on a thru-hike of the field, as her own preference—sports.

Pacific Crest Trail hoping to make sense of her life and her As the fifth child of six, Newland learned early on of mother’s death. one surefire way to grab her mom’s attention: baseball.

“By the time the credits rolled, I knew what I needed “Mom could talk her way into a sports conversation with to do,” Newland writes in “A Season with Mom.” “Swap anyone, often surprising men […] Soulful, intelligent and out the Pacific Crest Trail for 30 MLB ballparks, trade intuitive, she connected with people instantly,” writes nature for some of the largest cities in North America, Newland in her recent debut book, “A Season with Mom: tweak another detail here or there and boom! I had a plan Love, Loss, and the Ultimate Baseball Adventure.” for the next nine months.”

Growing up in New Orleans with no official MLB team In a single baseball season, Newland accomplished to stand behind, Newland and her mom found refuge in the the goal she and her mom had set together decades before Chicago Cubs whose games were nationally broadcasted but never had the chance to complete. Her trip sent her through WGN. The certified underdog of baseball for a bouncing from city to city in a scattered cross-country century worked its magic on the pair, and they sat captivated voyage, featuring scenic train rides up the west coast and by the long stretches of quiet afternoon games together. gridlocked Ubers on suspension bridges. She made new “This was really the only time I had with her, and it was friends and reconnected with old ones. She saw a lot of the one thing we shared together,” Newland says. “I think great baseball played. She even finished the tour with a that’s what made baseball so special—the connections you bang, throwing out the first pitch at her beloved Wrigley make in and around the game when watching it. It’s the type Field. But most importantly, she found a piece of her mom. of sport where you can have meaningful and deep conver “The secret to understanding who I was could sations with someone while also watching only be unlocked by knowing who she the game.”

“She was just a model was,” writes Newland.

When Newland was 13, she, her

Newland believes her mom was for living, even in the at her best when she was traveling and parents and Newland’s childhood best friend ventured from the south up to face of death, and she watching baseball. The ballpark tour Chicago to finally enjoy a Cubs game in two aspects of her mom that just kept going in spite combined person. Like all die-hard Cubs fans, they made her come alive. Through them, ate at Harry Caray’s Italian Steakhouse Newland was able to understand her of everything.” during their trip. While seated at the mom—and herself—a bit better. Newland same table Caray would occupy when visiting the joint, didn’t just follow her mom’s logistical plans when she set Newland’s mom excitedly suggested that they visit all of out on the tour. She also followed her lead. the ballparks in North America.

“We were very different. I was very shy, and I was Visiting 30 MLB stadiums is no easy feat, but they were definitely an introvert. And she was not,” Newland says. “I up for the challenge. Over the next few years, they attended think for most of my life, I sort of watched from the sidea handful of games from Chicago to Atlanta. Their trek lines her navigate her life, and I didn’t really understand halted around 10, however, as Newland’s mom was diagwhat she was doing until I actually took the baseball tour.” nosed with advanced colon cancer. And then in 2012, three Newland cements her mom’s legacy in “A Season with years after her mom’s journey ended, Newland herself was Mom,” a poignant exploration of her mother’s storied life diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma and melanoma. anchored by Newland’s ballpark visits. In letters to her As Newland went through intense chemotherapy and mother for each stop, Newland recounts memories of her radiation, she was able to draw strength from her mom mom’s free-spirited and spontaneous nature that weave even without her physically there. into Newland’s own desire to live a more meaningful life.

“In many ways, while it was scary to think, ‘Oh gosh, The result is more than a story about baseball or cancer— my mom didn’t survive with her cancer and what does this it’s what Newland calls a love story. mean for me?’ I realized that was a gift from my mom,” “It’s a love story of the unpredictable and complex says Newland. “Watching her go through it gave me the world in which each of us lives,” Newland writes. practice to understand how to navigate it and the courage “Ultimately, it’s a reminder to you, the reader, that you to fight it. And she wasn’t even there. She was just a model don’t have to love everything you go through, but you for living, even in the face of death, and she just kept going should know that everything you go through can bring in spite of everything.” you closer to your love.”

For a while, Newland figured the dream to visit the MLB ballparks had died when her mother passed away.

It wasn’t until she was two years cancer free and visiting home for the holidays that the idea popped up again.

After a whirlwind few years, Newland realized there was a lot she hadn’t fully processed. On a whim, she went “A Season with Mom: Love, Loss, and the Ultimate Baseball Adventure” to an afternoon showing at her mom’s favorite movie is now available wherever books are sold.

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VISIT OUR WEBSITE Nicholas J. Vogelzang, M.D., FASCO, FACP, is part of Comprehensive Cancer’s medical oncology team that provides world-class cancer care in a supportive and caring environment. His expertise in mesothelioma makes him a forerunner in the research field.

Lead Counsel, Nicholas Vogelzang, adopted his father’s passion for mesothelioma victims when he founded Vogelzang Law. Together, the pair have dedicated over 20 years to providing trusted medical and legal aid to mesothelioma victims.

To learn more about mesothelioma, visit our website today at www.vogelzanglaw.com/askthedoctor 872-231-0693

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Around the World

58 NO ORDINARY HOUSE 61 A HIDDEN BURDEN 63 A WELLNESS RETREAT

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no ordinary house India is a country of high cancer mortality rates and limited accessible resources, where many travel miles and miles to expensive cities for late-stage treatment, becoming houseless in the process. Wanting to help, one government official offered up his state house. Now, it’s a beacon of hope for cancer patients.

Photo courtesy of Sanskrita Bharadwaj

BY SANSKRITA BHARADWAJ

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S

ometime in 2003, Devashish Sharma moved from Assam—a small state in India’s far northeastern region—to Mumbai, a bustling financial center and the country’s most densely populated city. At that time, Sharma was the deputy resident commissioner of Assam House located in Vashi, a neighborhood in Navi Mumbai (New Bombay). Until he moved, the House was derelict—cobwebs covered windows, battered old floors and defunct electricity.

In the early ‘90s, the then chief minister of Assam, Hiteswar Saikia and Sharad Pawar, chief minister of Mumbai, were close friends. The Assam Association of Mumbai requested Saikia for the Assam House which could be used as space for cultural exchange between the two states, or a space for students, patients and tourists.

Saikia requested Pawar for a plot of land.

At the time, Navi Mumbai was developing and all Indian states were allowed to take a plot of land in the area to build their respective state houses. In 1995, Assam inaugurated the building and opened a small emporium for arts and crafts. “But, due to unforeseen reasons, this only lasted for a day and the Assam House shut down the very next day.

The locks didn’t open until I moved,” Sharma says.

Sharma took it upon himself to get the place fixed. In a few days the Assam House was functional. People living in the neighborhood noticed lights lit up and went up to Sharma to congratulate him. Through them, Sharma learned about cancer patients who traveled thousands of kilometres from smaller cities, towns and villages to Mumbai’s Tata Memorial Hospital — India’s largest tertiary cancer care facility. He realized that many of these patients couldn’t afford to live in an expensive city like Mumbai for a prolonged period of time and needed accommodation while undergoing treatment.

“Patients are willing to travel the distance but they need a place to stay,” says Sharma. “We have often seen patients living on the pavements outside the Tata Memorial Hospital. When they run out of money, they sleep on the streets. Cancer treatment cannot get done in a few days. It takes months. I wanted to help, even if it is in a small way.”

According to the World Health Organization, cancer is the second leading cause of death globally and was responsible for an estimated 9.6 million deaths in 2018.

Worldwide, about one in six deaths is due to cancer. In India, more than 1 million people are diagnosed with the disease every year. According to data from the Tata Memorial Centre, a grant-in-aid body under India’s Department of Atomic Energy, 100 out of every 100,000 urban Indians suffer from cancer. The number falls to 60 in rural India. In the United States, 300 out of every 100,000 people suffer from cancer. In developed countries, people tend to live well into their old age, often leading to higher cancer rates despite better health care facilities.

According to a 2015 study by Ernst and Young, in India, there are only 250 dedicated cancer-care centers, 40 percent of which are available in eight metropolitan cities and fewer than 15 percent are government-operated.

Therefore, 80 percent of India’s cancer cases are diagnosed at a late stage. It’s one reason why 68 percent of patients with cancer die of the disease in India compared to 33 percent in the U.S. To combat this, many patients travel vast distances to cancer centers within India for treatment.

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treatment. “Along with fighting a deadly disease, these

Sharma created a report for the government and kids belong to economically poor families. There are also included a signed petition from cancer patients at Tata indirect beneficiaries, such as a patient’s parents. When Memorial Hospital asking for accommodation for those they arrive here with their child, they are usually devaswho belong to low-income and marginalized backgrounds tated. They ask us ‘Why me?’ or ’Why my child?’ We also and have to travel long distances to avail care. The govprovide them with counseling sessions,” Baruah explains. ernment heard their plea and in June 2004, Assam House Abdul Majid and his daughter Shirina Akhtar are a opened up for cancer patients. Over the years, patients case in point. Majid has been travelling from Bongaigaon from all over the country, especially from the northeast— a small town in Assam — to Guwahati along with his ern belt of India, have arrived at the Assam House while 16-year-old daughter Shirina. Shirina has sarcoma, cancer searching for a place to stay during treatment. of the soft tissue, in her leg. “She needs support while According to the Indian Council of Medical Research, walking, but by Allah’s grace she is recovering,” Majid says. between 2012 and 2014, the seven northeastern states of The Indian government’s strict COVID-19 pandemic lockIndia—Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, Arunachal Pradesh, downs had been difficult for Majid and Shirina who couldn’t Mizoram, Manipur and Nagaland—report a higher cancer travel to Guwahati due to lack of transport facilities. He is burden than the Indian average of a recorded 80-110 now glad that his daughter’s treatment has resumed. cancer cases per 100,000 people. In its northeastern states,

“We wanted to travel to Guwahati during the lockthis number ranged between 150-200 cases per 100,000. down but my daughter is already immunocompromised.

The health infrastructure in most of these states is not The doctors warned us that exposure to COVID-19 could equipped to treat this caseload, forcing poor patients to have been fatal for her,” Majid says. Shirina has had four travel long distances for treatment. surgeries since she was diagnosed with sarcoma in 2018.

Bhabesh Das, an oncologist based in Assam, says Majid, who is her primary caregiver, says that each time cancer is a lifestyle disease. Tobacco, a lack of exercise they arrived in Guwahati, they have and nutritious food, alcohol, smoking, always lived at Shishu Ashray Sthal. indoor air pollution and a sedenAccording to a 2015 study by “We can’t even imagine where else we tary lifestyle are some of the leading Ernst and Young, in India, would have gone. Renting a place in causes of cancer in India. Some people are also genetically predisthere are only 250 dedicated Guwahati is too expensive,” Majid says.

Deepshikha also provides posed to the disease. “In northeast India, people consume a lot of smoked cancer-care centers, 40 percent skill-based training to cancer survivors. “Some people lose their limbs meat, the fermented variety of the raw of which are available in or they have families to feed so we try betel nut, and tobacco consumption is eight metropolitan cities and to empower them by teaching a parhigh here. These are all carcinogenic ticular trade,” says Sharma. “There substances,” Das says. fewer than 15 percent are is a girl called Jamuna, who lost one

“Our Mumbai home (Assam government-operated. of her legs during treatment, and her House) is open to cancer patients from father died soon after. We bought her everywhere. We have had patients a sewing machine and now she uses one leg to work on from Bangladesh, Nepal and Myanmar as well,” Sharma the machine. She has been earning around 7000 Indian says, adding that they help patients navigate the language rupees (100 United States dollars) a month.” barrier. “Some pay Rs 150 (U.S. $2) for a bed, but there Now, people recognize Sharma as the “guy who helps are several who can’t afford to and we try to make arrangecancer patients.” ments for them with help from other NGOs.”

“There is a tremendous sense of satisfaction. I feel I

In 2006, Sharma also launched the Deepshikha am not just another boring bureaucrat,” Sharma says. He Foundation in Guwahati, the gateway city to Northeast acknowledges the help he’s received from his team members India. “Initially, when it started, we were running purely and people in power. He says he could have been removed on emotions,” Mrinmoyee Baruah, general secretary of the from Assam House because he had transformed the place Deepshikha Foundation, says. They began with initiatives into a space for cancer patients; usually, these state houses are like ambulance services, cancer awareness drives, blood occupied by government employees and their families. “But donation camps, help desks and screening programs. there were people who supported my cause and helped me.”

In 2016, with the help of funders and donors, the

Today, there are five buildings under Deepshikha Deepshikha Foundation created a one-of-a-kind hospice Foundation in Navi Mumbai accommodating 200 cancer center for terminally ill cancer patients in the outskirts patients. “There is no other state house in India dedicated of Guwahati. “These patients are no longer in the curato cancer patients. Assam House is unique,” Sharma says. tive stage. But everyone deserves dignity in death. At the hospice center, we try to keep them happy and safe,” Baruah says, adding that this is also the first hospice of its kind in the northeast region for cancer patients. “As of now, we can accommodate 15 terminally ill cancer patients. We are building 12 more rooms.”

The Deepshikha Foundation also launched Sishu To learn more about the Deepshikha Foundation and how it Ashray Sthal, a family-centered residence in Guwahati in continues to help economically challenged cancer patients in 2018. At Sishu Ashray Sthal, children with cancer can live India, visit deepsikha.org. with their primary caregivers for free while undergoing 60

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a hidden burden

Mesothelioma lawyer Nicholas Vogelzang explores the ramifications the disease can have on unsuspecting populations around the globe.

Photo courtesy of Vogelzang Law

BY NICHOLAS VOGELZANG

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s an attorney representing people with cancer due However, the statistics are much worse for the population to asbestos exposure (primarily mesothelioma), of people that worked with and around asbestos for hunI have seen families face stage IV cancer in an dreds of hours aboard a ship. At this point, mesothelioma up-close and personal manner, watching them in is still a terminal disease and most people have a life expecthe initial stages of diagnosis, through the treatment and tancy of around 12 months from the date of diagnosis. after the loss.

The men in Bari were all in good spirits and happy to Mesothelioma usually isn’t detected until it’s in late meet an American lawyer. It appeared they hadn’t been stage, with initial symptoms like shortness of breath together in a long time and they enjoyed talking about and a pain in the side. When the patient goes in for a CT their work aboard ships in the Navy. I discussed their scan, the tumor looks like an orange peel slowly wrapping asbestos exposure with each of them and the potential around the lung and inhabiting the mesothelium, which routes to compensation. Some of them had worked in U.S. is the sausage casing that envelopes all of our lungs. ports while being exposed to asbestos, while others also For most of my career, I have resided in the United worked aboard U.S. ships while the ship was flying the States and worked exclusively with individuals that were U.S. flag. All of them had worked on ships that contained exposed to asbestos here. Recently, I had an opportunity ACM manufactured and sold in the United States. Many to help veterans of the Greek and Italian navy who are of those manufacturing companies are bankrupt today, currently being treated for mesothelioma from asbestos but they have established trusts as part of the bankruptcy exposure while working on ships. Both Greece and Italy to compensate some of these Italian and Greek sailors. purchased countless United States Navy ships, renamed Unfortunately, the payouts are little consolation for these them and gave them a second life in their own navy. It was men and their families knowing what they are losing. an excellent way for the United States to upgrade their Despite this heavy backdrop, the men mostly smiled, fleet and sell warships to their allies. It also gave Greece some of them eager to show off their English skills, and and Italy the ability to grow their fleet faster and have recounted their past lives. similar technology to the United States. Unfortunately,

We then traveled across the ankle of Italy to the the asbestos insulation and replacement asbestos insulagorgeous town of Naples, stopping for delicious pastries, tion was included in the sale. espresso and pizza along the way. When

These transactions occurred we arrived at a law office, there was a very throughout the 1970s and 1980s when Similar to the men before similar group of men all suffering from all parties involved should have known mesothelioma. them, the Greeks and about the hazards of asbestos. Just like Early in 2020, just before the pandemic Italians weren’t given lockdowns, sailors from the United States, Greek I also traveled to Athens and and Italian sailors cut through old, exist- any warnings about the Peraeus, an international port town in ing asbestos insulation to get at the interThere, I met with a very gentle danger of asbestos fibers. Greece. nal valves and pumps for repair, scraping man who had been a proud sailor in the off worn-out asbestos gaskets and putting Hellenic Navy. He beamed with every asbestos mud on the old boilers and generators. Not only story and every answer to my many questions about all of was the existing insulation left on the pipes, pumps and the U.S. ships that he had served on. valves, but replacement parts containing asbestos were The Greek gentleman ended up working in California also still in the storeroom, thus creating little incentive for some time, so he had a strong case that we could bring to purchase new, non-asbestos-containing insulation and to a California court. I spent three weeks in Greece working replacement parts. Much of the asbestos-containing matewith him and several of his colleagues. It was a tremendous rial (ACM) was originally manufactured in the United experience and my last chance to travel abroad.

States using asbestos fiber mined in Africa and imported

It was also tough to see such a similar group of by the container in 100-pound gunny sacks. U.S. manuhard-working veterans dealing with the same terrible facturers mixed the raw asbestos fibers with a few other cancer from a mineral spread around the world from ingredients and sold millions of tons of ACM that was various, almost inevitable, machinations. Eventually, this later installed on the warships, sometimes by the sailors cancer will be mostly gone from the U.S. and Europe. themselves.

Unfortunately, asbestos is still frequently used in India,

Similar to the men before them, the Greeks and China, Russia and the continent of Africa with little heed Italians weren’t given any warnings about the danger of for safety. The only thing more frustrating than cancer is asbestos fibers. They smoked cigarettes while asbestos watching people get a preventable cancer that cuts their dust settled in the air, a practice that can increase your life short. Asbestos is an international phenomenon, just risk of lung cancer by up to 90 times of that of a normal like the cancer it causes. Hopefully the work being done population. They didn’t wear masks. They didn’t limit in medicine will help extend the lives of the victims and their time around dusty areas, and the rooms in the ship the progress in occupational medicine will help educate provided little, if any, ventilation. corporations and countries across the world to prevent the In 2019, I flew to Bari, Italy to meet with seven men next occupational tragedy. who all worked on old U.S. warships and were all living with mesothelioma. To put this in perspective, mesotheliNicholas Vogelzang is the founder of Vogelzang Law where he also oma is an extremely rare cancer for the general population. serves as lead counsel, specializing in primarily mesothelioma cases.

In the United States, a country of 300 million, there are To learn more about Vogelzang Law’s commitment to advocate for only 3,500 cases per year or .001 percent of the population. victims of asbestos-related disease, visit vogelzanglaw.com.

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A Wellness Reset The Global Wellness Summit, through its first-ever hybrid event, explores the future of the wellness industry in light of coronavirus.

BY ALLISON STERN

Photo courtesy of Angelina Sienkiewicz, Creative Associate, Global Wellness Summit

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he Global Wellness Summit takes place once a year, bringing together world leaders to forecast future trends of the $4.5 trillion wellness economy. Each year, the summit is held in a new country. Previous summits have taken attendees to Switzerland, Turkey, Bali, India, Morocco, Mexico, Austria and Italy. The 14th annual summit was originally set to be held in Tel Aviv, Israel. As the world was struck with the catastrophic COVID-19 pandemic, summit directors swiftly altered plans for the once large, in-person gathering. The 2020 summit, which took place November 8–11, was moved to The Breakers Palm Beach in Palm Beach, Florida.

“Since the very first summit, which took place 15 years ago in New York, the Global Wellness Summit’s tagline and mission has been ‘Joining Together, Shaping the Future,’” says Global Wellness Summit’s Chair and CEO Susie Ellis. The Global Wellness Summit believes “that coming together in collaboration as an industry better equips us to tackle ‘bigger picture’ issues and that putting competition aside helps elevate the conversations that will shape the future of the wellness industry.” wwWhile Florida allowed businesses to operate at full capacity, The Breakers and the Global Wellness Summit elected to limit on-site delegate attendance to 150 and allowed an unlimited number of additional delegates to attend virtually.

“Pivoting from in-person only to a hybrid event had many upsides in 2020—the biggest being our ability to reach so many more people,” says Ellis. “Those who were with us in person had a unique, incredibly safe experience.” Ellis believes this is an experience more and more people will crave in 2021.

Rather than allowing these changes to diminish the science and innovation displayed at the summit, Ellis and the rest of the Global Wellness Summit leaders leaned into their ability to demonstrate what a safe convention can look like during a global pandemic.

Denise E. Bober, Senior Vice President – Human Resources, The Breakers Palm Beach, US

The priority of the Global Wellness Summit and The Breakers was clear. Dr. Richard Carmona, former U.S. surgeon general, acted as the conference Medical Advisor.

“Mandatory COVID-19 testing and temperature checks replaced handshakes and hugs, and buffet breaks were transformed to healthy snacks presented for carrying away.

Mood lighting was turned into far-UVC and air purification, reducing viral load, and fun was reimagined with a ‘Mask-erade’ with Distanced Disco Dancing,” Ellis says.

Ellis thinks, “the wellness industry encourages connection, kindness, understanding, and love,” and that “we are champions of creating a healthier, kinder world,” something that Ellis believes is a benefit for anyone. Main themes discussed during the 2020 summit proved relevant to the cancer community and included breathwork, self-care’s integral role in health care, and coronavirus and the loneliness epidemic. “Mental wellness was a huge topic and our GWI (Global Wellness Institute) researchers released a comprehensive report on ‘Defining the Mental Wellness Economy,’ a topic that is often at the forefront of conversation within the cancer community,” Ellis adds. “At the heart of the wellness industry, and of our organization, is the desire to foster connection and community.”

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Empowering You to Make Informed Decisions

“Rolfe Foundation was there for me, and I want to be able to continue to support it so it’s there for everyone else.”

-Aaron Colwell, Pancreatic Cancer Warrior

Building Connections. Funding Research.

Ongoing Support & Education.

Time is of the essence when it comes to pancreatic cancer. That’s why we’re here, and why we’ve partnered with a number of Chicago’s and the Midwest’s leading doctors, hospitals, care coordinators, researchers and cancer organizations.

Rolfe Pancreatic Cancer Foundation is a free service providing tailored education on treatment options, connections to the right doctors and resources, and ongoing support.

To find help, or to help others, visit rolfefoundation.org or call 773.989.1108.

At Rolfe Foundation, helping families in need of support is personal. Each member of our organization can share a story about how his or her life has been impacted by a pancreatic cancer diagnosis. So we’re able to help remove the uncertainties and alleviate the fears of the unknown—for you and your family.

Our staff and community at large are here to walk alongside you.

You are not alone.

Innovations and Research

67 BREAKING BARRIERS 69 FORGING A FUTURE

VISIT OUR WEBSITE OR GIVE US A CALL From the 1930s to the 1970s, the U.S. Navy used enormous amounts of asbestos on warships and submarines. Asbestos was known for its low cost, heat and water resistance. As a result, it was used in fire protection and insulation on ships and buildings.

Anyone working in a shipyard before the 1970s, when the Navy provided breathing equipment to its sailors, would have faced significant asbestos-exposure.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma after a career in the U.S. military, visit our website at www.vogelzanglaw.com 872-231-0887

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Breaking Barriers

Women researchers are important to cancer science, yet the oncology field often fails at properly recognizing it. Organizations like Women Who Conquer Cancer and ResearcHERS are working to shatter the glass ceiling.

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BY TAYLOR NOVAK

ithout question, women researchers have made valuable contributions to the field of oncology.

From American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) co-founder Dr. Jane C. Wright’s promotion of chemotherapy to Dr. Jimmie Holland’s emphasis on psychosocial support in the cancer community, women are making an impact. Why is it, then, that female researchers in oncology are consistently discriminated against through lack of funding, limited staff numbers and scarce leadership opportunities when compared to their male counterparts—and how can it be addressed?

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A GLARING GAP In a 2019 open letter, Margaret Foti, CEO of American Association for Cancer Research (AACR), addresses disparities that, despite our social progression in the past few decades, still exist between men and women in cancer research and medicine.

“Despite the major impact of women on cancer research and medicine, their advancement and career opportunities have moved forward at a slow, inconsistent and inadequate pace,” she writes.

Foti shares that only 27 percent of prizes awarded in biology and biomedicine are awarded to women. This echoes the awarding of grant money, according to a 2019 study in the Journal of the American Medical Association. This research found that on average, first-time male lead investigators were awarded $41,000 more than their female counterparts.

During formative career stages, grants and awards can propel the trajectory of a researcher’s work—both present and future. In addition to the perceived value these prizes may accredit to the researcher and their work, receiving such resources allows novel or innovative research to be well-funded and experience better outcomes. In other words, it can set a researcher up for success.

These gaping disparities led to a pair of 2017 lawsuits filed by two senior female scientists against San Diego’s prestigious Salk Institute for Biological Studies. The two women, one of which studies HIV and cancer genes, alleged long-standing gender discrimination such as limited female staff, the denying of further resources and opportunities and the unbalanced distribution of funding between male-run labs and female-run labs.

One year later, Salk Institute settled with the scientists, but the lawsuits highlight the unfortunate reality for many women in the medical research realm.

BEHIND EVERY WOMAN Women researchers are important, especially in cancer science. For example, women researchers in cancer science have emphasized the importance of psychosocial support because they more easily recognize that cancer can be an emotional ride.

They also address issues specifically related to female patients, such as the potential ineffectiveness of immunotherapy when a patient is young and female. By highlighting such shortcomings in current cancer science, women researchers have the ability to alter traditionally white, male-centric studies and trials to be more inclusive and widely beneficial.

Diversity is a cornerstone of medicinal advancements as cancer affects everyone. Researchers of different social identities bring awareness, representation and new perspectives to both general and specific areas of study based on their own experiences, thus ensuring that the medical community can better accommodate underserved groups and their unique set of concerns. Key players achieving health care milestones should get not only the recognition they deserve, but the means to get there in the first place— regardless of social identity.

To ensure this, there are numerous organizations that have popped up in recent years that are committed to lifting women researchers up, especially in the oncology field.

The Women Who Conquer Cancer (WWCC) program, an arm of Conquer Cancer: the ASCO Foundation, is dedicated to advancing and celebrating the careers of young 68

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women researchers. Since its inception in 2013, the program has raised $5 million to award women scientists starting out in their career, providing crucial funding.

WWCC has additionally awarded numerous Young Investigator Awards, a year-long research and travel grant given to impressive female oncologists making huge impacts in the fight against cancer. The award is funded by Women Leaders in Oncology (WLO), an organization similarly concerned with connecting and empowering women researchers in oncology.

For the past five years, WWCC has also rewarded two Mentorship Awards annually to women in oncology who are considered role models and mentors to both men and women in training. According to WWCC, these awards aim to recognize and promote the work of women mentors, ultimately narrowing career gender disparities as mentors “play a critical role in the development of the next generation of oncologists.”

“Women Who Conquer Cancer Mentorship Awards recognize extraordinary female leaders in oncology who demonstrate an outstanding commitment to the professional development of their oncology colleagues as clinicians, educators and researchers,” said Dr. Sandra M. Swain, founder of WWCC, in a previous interview. “We are inspired by their example.”

WWCC hopes that these Mentorship Award recipients, in addition to the research it funds through grants, continue to inspire other women in the oncology research field.

“I started this program to provide targeted support to an underrepresented group of oncology researchers, and the early success has been truly inspirational,” said Swain. “I am devoted to expanding the reach so that more early-career female investigators can achieve their professional goals.”

FROM THE TOP At the higher level, ASCO named Dr. Julie Gralow as its new chief medical officer in November 2020, and she hopes to close gender gaps in leadership roles.

“While we’ve got plenty of women, both community physicians and academics, in oncology, it’s at the leadership level where we still have some of those gender gaps,” said Gralow in a previous interview. “But [women] who rise through the ranks, at least in academics, and get promoted […] drop out for a lot of reasons. And some of them are fine reasons, but we’ve got to get rid of the ones that aren’t.”

With real commitment from leadership, Gralow believes equality is attainable. This is also what the American Cancer Society’s ResearcHERS: Women Fighting Cancer program advocates for.

Like WWCC, ResearcHERS devotes its efforts to not only empowering women in the oncology field but sustaining the “pipeline of talent.” The program encourages women in the field to become a ResearcHERS Ambassador, raising funds and spreading awareness to other women toward important cancer research conducted by people just like them.

Ultimately, this engagement would ideally impact the number of women in leadership roles and ensure the future success of all women in oncology, from top to bottom—and continue to advance science as a whole.

“What is at stake is more than just equity, fairness, or justice,” writes Foti in her AACR open letter. “We need women working in cancer science, indeed in all the sciences.”

Forging a Future The research behind the mRNA-based vaccines used to minimize severe COVID-19 cases has another potential use—fighting cancer.

BY TAYLOR NOVAK Cancer Wellness

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s the COVID-19 pandemic unraveled in 2020, the strengthen an immune system’s response to cancer cells. world witnessed another stunning occurrence— But it’s not perfect. Studies have found that sometimes medical researchers across the globe dropped immunotherapy drugs are only partially effective for nearly everything to commit to the development patients, and occasionally they may not work at all. of a vaccine that would protect the population as soon “Cancer cells vary from patient to patient, so we must as possible. In less than one year, the time, money and develop vaccines that target specific mutations,” says effort that went into fueling such research also fueled a Marchese. monumental triumph in U.S. medical history—the FDA Moderna is aiming to do just that through its research approval of the first-ever vaccines utilizing mRNA. on personalized cancer vaccines. Such a vaccine would Of course, everyone is now abuzz with discussions utilize next-generation sequencing, a way to analyze about mRNA given its important role in combating the genetic variations within diseases, to identify mutations novel coronavirus. But while mRNA vaccines are new, found on a patient’s cancer cells. Moderna’s bioinformatthey’re certainly not an unfamiliar topic to researchers. ics team would develop algorithms based on this inforThey also hold the potential to fight a greater array of dismation to encode for each of these mutations in a single eases and viruses than just COVID-19—including cancer. mRNA molecule, which is then distributed through a

You may recall your high school biology teacher vaccine. This would ideally assist the patient’s body in explaining how mRNA, or messenger ribonucleic acid, is a identifying cancerous cells more easily, thus creating a molecule that carries genetic instructions from the body’s stronger immune response for treating cancer.

DNA strands to the cytoplasm, where proteins are made.

Results from studies have been optimistic. A clinBecause proteins help cellular functions in our body like ical trial sponsored by Moderna at the University of fighting against illnesses, research began in the 1990s to Arizona expanded in November 2020 to include more discover how to harness mRNA’s protein-making power participants after showing promising preliminary data on into custom-made protection from diseases or viruses. head and neck cancer patients receiving a personalized When it comes to more traditional routine vaccines, cancer vaccine in combination with immunotherapy drug like the flu shot, our body receives a Pembrolizumab. weakened or inactivated form of the There are setbacks when it comes “Immunotherapy is taking to targeted virus. This is not the case with mRNA and cancer, however, which off in the oncology world, is likely why we haven’t seen a mRNAmRNA-based vaccines.

In mRNA technology, synthetic cancer vaccine approved just yet. and mRNA vaccines are based mRNA is developed in a lab and, when

After mRNA instructs your entering the body, instructs the host to the next step in that field.” body to form the predetermined protein, form a predetermined protein in order it breaks apart and eventually dissipates to trigger an immune response. After producing the completely. This works well enough for the COVID-19 appropriate antibodies, the body now wields a blueprint virus, but the short-term immune engagement isn’t as on fighting the virus were it to pop up again—all without effective for cancer cell treatment as mRNA must travel all the risk of becoming infected or seriously ill to do so. the way into the body’s lymph nodes to be productive.

With COVID-19, the key protein chosen for the A February 2021 study set out to address this shortvaccine is the “spike” protein, found on the surface of the coming. Chinese researchers developed and tested an virus. For other viruses or diseases, it could be a different injectable hydrogel—synthetic biomaterials that closely protein. The magic of synthetic mRNA’s potential is its resemble natural living tissue—that contains and stacustomization. This flexibility bodes well for other areas bilizes mRNA, allowing a slower release of mRNA. of focus, like cancer research.

Administered to mice with melanoma, subjects experi “The most significant potential of mRNA research is enced reductions in tumor size and no further metastasis cancer vaccines,” says Sean Marchese, a registered nurse in the lungs. These findings could be influential in cancer and oncology writer at The Mesothelioma Center who has vaccine development if success continues in further trials. experience in respiratory and thoracic oncology clinical

Cancer is complex and using mRNA to develop a trials. “The specific targeting mechanisms of mRNA vaccancer vaccine is still in the early stages of research. But cines make them excellent candidates for cancer treatthe success of mRNA-based vaccines tackling the COVIDment. We’re seeing this level of effectiveness now with the 19 virus has shone a spotlight on the potential of this verCOVID-19 vaccine.” satile approach in cancer care. With a momentous mRNA Moderna Inc., the biotech giant responsible for one landmark occurring firsthand in real time, a new era of of two current mRNA vaccines for the COVID-19 virus, vaccine technology may be ushered in. doesn’t take the potential of mRNA technology lightly. It’s

“Researchers have proven the scalability of mRNA also applying its research toward immune-oncology, or vaccine production with COVID-19 vaccines,” says immunotherapy, to create a cancer vaccine.

Marchese. “And now we must turn that focus towards “Immunotherapy is taking off in the oncology world, cancer prevention and treatment.” and mRNA vaccines are the next step in that field,” explains Marchese.

Immunotherapy has shown some promise in using the body’s immune system to identify and fight cancerous To follow along with Moderna Inc.’s immuno-oncology progress cells. Just like synthetic mRNA strengthens an immune and development of a personalized mRNA-based cancer vaccine, system’s response to a pathogen, immunotherapy can visit modernatx.com/pipeline/therapeutic-areas.

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Fashion

72 BELOW THE SURFACE 78 BOOBIE QUEENS

Survivors dive deep into healing through the ethereal magic of Erena Shimoda’s underwater photography.

BY BRITT JULIOUS

Photos by Erena Shimoda

Below the Surface

Chiara - Breast cancer survivor

“I

hope to do a lot of things, but I hope that [survivors] feel more reconnected with themselves when they do this photoshoot,” Erena Shimoda says. Shimoda, creator of the “Underwater Healer” project, has spent nearly a decade photographing survivors of all stripes—including cancer survivors— underwater. The process, she says, can open up doors that may have closed due to past trauma, whether they be physical or psychological blocks. She should know.

Shimoda tested the process on herself.

Photography is a relatively new practice for Shimoda. But life in the water comes natural to her after 15 years of scuba diving experience. During her journeys underwater, Shimoda began photographing marine life with a disposable camera. “I just love taking pictures underwater because it is a different world down there,” she says. Later, she pursued private underwater photography sessions from a man in Texas, turning her underwater hobby into a unique skill.

Around the same time, Shimoda also began volunteering as a general helper for the American Cancer Society’s “Look Good Feel Better” program. Warriors and thrivers gain confidence and boost their self-esteem by learning how to put on makeup and wigs.

“They’re looking for hope to come into this room and transform and do something new,” Shimoda recalls. “It was giving them courage to do new things so that they feel beautiful again.”

These combined experiences inspired Shimoda to launch her “Underwater Healer” project in 2013. Her first client, a cancer thriver, was one of Shimoda’s co-workers. Since then, Shimoda says she has photographed “maybe over 150 clients.”

“My clients are pretty much new to doing underwater modeling. So when they challenge themselves with doing new things, they feel this confidence and then they come out and they go home with their chin up and being happy and smiling,” Shimoda says.

A typical “Underwater Healer” session begins over email and with a video call. “Because we cannot communicate in the water, I want them to feel more comfortable with me holding the camera or how I am photographing [them],” says Shimoda. “And I usually know what they’re feeling or what they’re thinking when they submerge under the water because of their body language and also their facial expression.”

Body language is a key component to Shimoda’s work. “I’m originally from Japan and I came here with no English,” recalls Shimoda. “So for a long time, I had to guess what people were talking about because I didn’t know what they’re saying. Their body language—their facial expressions—are pretty much my language.”

Shimoda describes the first 10 minutes of any session as “a little surprise” for her clients. “But I like that surprise and I want them to know that it’s going to be okay,” she says. It is an adjustment period both physically and psychologically. “The important thing is you have to relax and not panic,” says Shimoda. That amount of time underwater begins to slow down one’s heart rate, allowing the person to stay underwater longer.

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Amber - Breast cancer survivor, veteran, sexual abuse survivor

Ericka - HER2 positive and triple negative breast cancer survivor

Reiko - Breast cancer and domestic violence survivor, from Japan

In addition to cancer survivors, Shimoda has also After some contemplation, Shimoda remembered her photographed other types of survivors, from trauma to love for scuba diving. She began to swim laps at local pools. sexual assault to veterans. She was inspired to branch out “I would lap swim every day and I just felt so much better. after suffering her own traumatic injuries.

And I dropped all my medications since,” says Shimoda.

During a late-night car ride back from a trip to Arizona, “When I submerge underwater, the noise is blocked. [I] Shimoda and her father got a flat tire on the freeway. Their don’t hear anything else but probably my heartbeat. Sound car flipped and Shimoda was thrown out of the vehicle. travels faster underwater, so all of the sounds you hear are Besides fracturing her “entire body,” Shimoda also suffered like a white noise,” she says. “The vibration is healing my from a traumatic brain injury. “[It] was a miracle I survived, thoughts. Like purifying my brain and my mind and spirit. but they couldn’t help my father,” reveals The pressure that I get with the water Shimoda.

The process, she says, pressure is really tight. It’s kind of making The experience left her with a lingerme feel like the ocean is hugging me.” can open up doors that Shimoda leaves the water feeling rejuveing sense of “survivor’s guilt,” she says. “I think I was holding it inside. I was trying may have closed due to nated, like a new person. Other survivors to forget,” says Shimoda. “I got into this she has worked with feel the same. “They past trauma, whether always have some dark spot that I think deep-down depression and I didn’t know why. I didn’t know what the depression being underwater [is] letting go. They they be physical or was. And all of a sudden, I couldn’t get could let those things go and also they psychological blocks. could tell me those stories even though out of my room. My eating habit was really poor and I couldn’t talk to anyone. Like, they didn’t know me,” she says. what is going on?”

Although the COVID-19 pandemic has restricted After seeking help, Shimoda was prescribed an antidehow often and where Shimoda can photograph clients pressant. “It was going on for way too long already, but the or swim laps herself, that hasn’t changed her love of the medicine didn’t really work for me,” says Shimoda. “I didn’t water. “Everybody is getting anxious and depressed,” she feel good [...] I just felt really worse.” She eventually changed says. “It’s hard to find that pool of water but whenever you meds three times over the course of a year with little success. find it, I usually recommend it to go in.”

“I still [had] this survival mode that I wanted to live. I didn’t want to waste my life because I still felt this survivor’s guilt. I To learn more about Erena Shimoda and her photography, visit wanted to make [my father] proud for living.” erenashimoda.com.

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boobie queens Breast cancer warriors can find extra support through Boobie Crowns, an organization with an unconventional way of making you feel like royalty.

Photo courtesy of Whitney O’Connor

BY BRITT JULIOUS

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he best part is reminding people to celebrate Prior to her first diagnosis (O’Connor was diagnosed themselves,” says Whitney O’Connor, founder of with breast cancer again in December 2019), her friends the whimsical warrior and thriver brand Boobie often made her crowns for events like birthdays and bachCrowns. But Boobie Crowns, which crafts colelorette parties. After her diagnosis, her friends orgaorful and sparkly crown-like accessories made out of bras, is nized a walk where her crew all wore decorated “boobie more than just a way to cheer people up. For O’Connor, who crowns.” Their silly accessory for a good cause drew interis the OG Boobie Queen, creating the brand was also a way est from other attendees and soon, the brand was born. to process her own two breast cancer diagnoses.

“I’m definitely not the only Boobie Queen out there and Six weeks after her wedding and one week after turning I’m really shocked no one else came up with this idea,” 30, O’Connor was diagnosed with stage III HER2-positive says O’Connor. “Let’s see if we can figure this out and breast cancer after a lump was found during a routine give everybody crowns. I’ve always had the creative gene, annual exam. “It was just a really big shock. I do and eat the I guess, and laughter to me is the best medicine.” right thing, I would say, 70 percent of the time,” O’Connor The Boobies Crown team is comprised of O’Connor, says. She immediately began treatment which included her husband and her mother. Her long-term goal is to get chemotherapy and a double mastectomy, but not radiation. the crowns manufactured at a larger scale to account for Through genetic testing, O’Connor learned she had a higher demand. “When I get a video or I get a picture of a rare condition called Li-Fraumeni syndrome. Only 400 somebody opening it up and putting it on, it’s just so much families are documented to have the condition. “We did fun that this is my job,” O’Connor says. a lot of digging. A lot of ancestry.com and figuring out After several trials to understand the design and confamily trends,” recalls O’Connor. “The doctors couldn’t struction of the crowns, O’Connor says it now takes about understand why I got it so young and [breast cancer] didn’t an hour and a half to make a singular crown. “I didn’t run in my family, but soft tissue sarcomas did.” Years want it to look like a craft that you just did. I really wanted earlier, for example, O’Connor’s father passed away from it to look regal and royal,” she says. glioblastoma, a soft tissue sarcoma.

Currently, Boobie Crowns operates as a “Li–Fraumeni, the punchline is each one-for-one business. Customers can pur“I didn’t want it to cell makes copies of itself over time. Well, chase a crown for a loved one and O’Connor my copy machine doesn’t function proplook like a craft that donates an additional crown to someone erly, so that copy machine that detects ‘this does not have as much support. After you just did. I really who is a bad cell’ and ‘this is a good cell,’ my many days spent in treatment in the hospital, wanted it to look body struggles with telling the difference. she realized many warriors are without the So bad cells continue to do bad things and sort of unwavering support she gratefully regal and royal.” one of those is cancer,” O’Connor says. had during her own treatment. “I was trying Receiving radiation would make her even to figure my place in that,” says O’Connor. more likely to develop an additional form of cancer down

Since launching Boobie Crowns, O’Connor has the line, so she opted for target hormone therapy. donated more than 120 crowns, usually through oncology As a teen, O’Connor went through puberty early. “I nurses. “We spend so much time fighting this fight that had a lot of things going for me that a lot of my friends did we forget to celebrate and forget to embrace the right now,” not, and one of those was boobs,” recalls O’Connor. While adds O’Connor. “The whole idea is to remind women preparing for a beach trip one year, a friend picked up her of the queens they are and how special they are and to bra, shocked by its size. “She’s like, ‘Oh my God. You’re celebrate.” like the queen. The queen of boobs,’” says O’Connor. Since

As for the future, O’Connor says Boobie Crowns then, her nickname has been “The Boobie Queen.” Years are just the beginning. She is currently in the process of later when creating her brand and after her breast cancer turning the company into a nonprofit with plans to launch diagnosis, the name stuck. “It was really ironic. Kind of a number of programs. “Adopt a Queen” will be similar to comical that that became a new evolution of that name.” the Make-A-Wish foundation where supporters can adopt a queen that lacks support. She’s also interested in awareness programs around genetic testing. With a background in mental health and time working in crisis stabilization facilities, O’Connor says she “never thought this avenue would be” her journey.

“I could get cancer next year again and start this whole treatment crap all over again and so for me, it’s like how can we celebrate this crappy, crappy, hard, hard thing with grace and laughter,” she adds. “And with underwear on your head.”

To learn more about Whitney O’Connor and Boobie Crowns and to purchase a crown for yourself or someone else, visit boobiecrowns.com.

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resources 82 PACK IT UP 84 CARE TO SHARE?

Pack It Up Stay prepared for your next visit with the doc with these 10 must-have hospital bag items that’ll keep you comfortably content.

Photo by Sarah Bell

BY ANA FERNATT

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hen heading to the hospital for a long day or overnight stay, plan ahead by packing items to help you stay comfortable and entertained. Keep your self care routines intact, your mind active and your body restful through treatments, recovery and the many waiting periods. Here are 10 items we recommend to keep in your bag for an easy and soothing appointment.

Toiletries:

Maintain your most important daily routines. Keeping simple luxuries like your own toothbrush and toothpaste can help you feel good. Bring along your skincare routine, lip balm and beauty products, too. To save space in your bag, stock up on travel and trial sizes or use reusable travel bottles. Kitsch has a BPA-free, non-toxic and dishwasher safe kit ($12).

Warm, soft socks:

Sometimes, the simplest things make us feel the most comforted. A good pair of socks can really change your mood. You’ll want a pair that keeps your piggies toasty and provides a little grip when walking along the hospital’s linoleum floors. Shearling lined slipper socks from Pudus ($15–$30) are stylish and cozy while fuzzy slipper socks from Pembrook ($24) are specifically designed for hospital use.

Moisturizing hand mask:

Since you’ll have time to fill, this is a good opportunity to indulge in self-care that requires sitting in place. Take 20 minutes to treat yourself to soft hands. Tony Moly hand masks ($5.50) are sweet smelling and touchscreen friendly, so you can still use your phone while waiting for the cream to thoroughly absorb into your skin.

Water bottle and snacks:

Rather than relying on whatever is in the vending machine, plan to stay hydrated and keep your energy up with drinks and healthy nibbles packed from home. Stainless steel S’well reusable bottles ($25–$45) come in fun colors and keep cold drinks cold for 48 hours and hot drinks hot for 24 hours. For a meal or snack that is easily stowed in your bag, a bento-style lunch box like insulated ones from Yumbox ($20–$32) keeps foods separate and organized until you are ready to dig in. Maybe add some ginger chews to settle an upset stomach.

Head Wrap:

Comfort is key for a stressless hospital stay. The stylish caps, wraps and hats by Grace Eleyae are lined with satin to minimize friction on your strands or scalp and help keep moisture locked in. Wear to sleep or throughout the day and protect your skin and hair from the rough pillowcase fabric of a chilly hospital room.

Something to read:

When preparing for extended time with your medical team, bring that novel you’ve wanted to finish or those magazines (like Cancer Wellness) that fuel your joyful imagination. We recommend downloading the Libby app onto your smartphone or tablet. Libby is a free app providing ebooks, audiobooks and digital magazines from your local library, delivering them directly to your device.

Portable power bank:

Spending more time on your phone playing games, reading ebooks or streaming a show means that your phone’s battery will drain quicker, so keep a fully charged power bank in your bag. A power bank is like a portable generator for your phone. By charging the power bank ahead of time at home, you can tap into it when your cell battery gets low on the go. The Fast Charge Qi Wireless Power Bank ($50) can charge by plugging in or simply laying your phone on top. We recommend carrying more than one, so that you are never caught without a little extra juice when you need it.

Headphones:

Headphones are a game changer when you want to escape for a little bit. When you put your headphones on, you’re suddenly in a whole new world. Make a playlist ahead of time, catch up on a podcast or get lost in an audiobook. To take your listening experience to the next level, try out an 8D version of your favorite song, a production technique that pans audio from side to side, for a music-led brain massage, or listen to a guided meditation on the Insight Timer app.

Adult coloring book/ activity book:

Sometimes, we want to take a break from all the screens in our lives and create something tangible. This is where a coloring or activity book comes in. They are pretty distractions with very low stakes. Color outside the lines? Fine.

You’re a grown up! You get to decide! Let yourself escape into a fantasy world of your own design. The Secret Garden coloring book ($10) combines coloring with mazes and puzzles to engage both sides of your brain in a fun treasure hunt through the pages. Or try the Adult Coloring Book for Breast Cancer Patients ($11.11) with 50+ images to keep those wait times a little more stress-free.

A sample size of your favorite scent:

You likely can’t wear perfumes, colognes or scented lotions right now, but sniffing a small vial of your favorite scent can do wonders to alter your mood. Take a little whiff from the bottle when you want a mood boost or comfort.

We like ginger and peppermint essential oils from Now Essential Oils, which can help soothe both your mind and stomach. Be sure to avoid lavender, which is included in many anti-nausea blends, as it is a hormone disruptor.

To get the products mentioned: Kitsch Ultimate Travel Set, mykitsch.com, Pudus Shearling Slipper Socks, ilovemypudus.com, Pembrook Slipper Socks, pembrookapparel.com, Tony Moly Hand Masks, tonymoly.us, S’well Stainless Steel Bottle, swell.com, Yumbox Bento Box, yumboxlunch.com, Grace Eleyae Hair Items, graceeleyae.com, Libby app, overdrive. com/apps/libby, Otterbox Portable Power Bank, otterbox.com, Insight Timer App, insighttimer.com, Secret Garden Art Coloring Book, target.com, Coloring Book for Breast Cancer Patients, cancerwellness.com, Now Essential Oils, gnc.com Cancer Wellness

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Care to Share?

Every cancer journey is different and so is the way you choose to share it. Finding the best communication tools to keep your loved ones in the loop means one less thing to worry about.

BY MAURA KELLER

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here are numerous tools—from social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram to online cancer support groups such as CaringBridge—for warriors to share their cancer journeys and find support. But what parameters exist on these platforms and how can the cancer community benefit from these communication tools?

If a patient is open about their diagnosis within their church, school and work communities, using social media or a site such as CaringBridge may be a perfect fit.

However, this would be dependent on how much information the patient wants others to know. Sometimes having a designated person who can provide updates can ease the burden on both the patient and immediate family member who acts as a caregiver.

“CaringBridge or a blog would be excellent choices; however, for those who are not computer savvy, a phone tree might be more advisable,” says Dr. Robin Squellati, faculty member for Walden University’s Master of Science in Nursing program and a cancer survivor. “Be careful posting any specific messages about cancer on social media. Well-meaning family members sometimes have ideas and suggestions that do not align with medical knowledge. Family and friends can help through support, encouragement, bringing a dinner, helping with transportation or other ways of showing how much they care.”

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As a cancer survivor, Squellati did not want others to immediately know that she had cancer. She needed time to process the information.

“I was working, plus undergoing treatments, which led to fatigue. Sometimes the fighter just needs to let people know that they are tired,” Squellati says. “Another survivor liked playing games and talking about old times with friends and family. Creating positive memories is very supportive. Every person is different, but most do not feel comfortable being asked too many questions about their cancer.”

Rebecca Adams, co-founder of My Alchemy Skin Care, was diagnosed with two stage IV blood cancers in 2015 and has been in remission for more than three years.

Because Adams had no functioning immune system, she was not able to receive visitors, was too ill to talk on the phone, and didn’t have the energy to open her laptop.

“Communication was indeed a problem when my entire life was turned upside down—every moment consumed with doctor and lab appointments, pills, chemo, blood transfusions, hospital stays and physical therapy,” Adams says. “I was exhausted.”

Adams suggests cancer patients ask a family member or close friend to help with communication, coordination and management.

“While everyone is well-intended, wanting to help and interested in how you’re doing, it means repeating updates over and over,” Adams says.

“Emotionally, the patient needs a break from focusing on cancer. It’s just too much when you are in a whirlwind of shock and so sick.” In Adams’ case, her daughter assumed the responsibility of “communication” because she lived in another state and wanted to help. Her daughter worked with Adams’ husband to schedule and coordinate her appointments, talked and texted family, church and friends with updates, accepted and declined offers and answered emails and phone calls.

“This not only relieved me but also my husband who was consumed with the caregiver role at home,” Adams says.

Executive coach, speaker and best-selling author Jen Coken was recently diagnosed with breast cancer. She says she was very private at the beginning of her diagnosis—about the first 10 weeks.

“I was still in shock. I was not yet the author of my journey because I had so many emotions and was dealing with so much uncertainty that I couldn’t talk to anyone about my diagnosis without sobbing,” Coken says. “I specifically told only a handful of people that were closest to me. I told them that they were not allowed to tell anyone else my news or post on Facebook.”

When Coken was ready share the news of her diagnosis, CaringBridge was a lifesaver for her.

“First and foremost, I didn’t have to keep repeating myself. In the beginning, my friends posted because I just couldn’t face doing so,” Coken says.

“Also, through CaringBridge, friends were able to donate money to help me buy groceries and buy me GrubHub gift cards so I could order dinner when I wasn’t well enough to cook post-surgery or during my radiation treatment.”

Don Williamson, a cancer survivor who finished radiation in spring 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, says the most significant issue facing the proper handling of cancer communication for patients and their family and friends is privacy.

“I believe family and friends’ best method to communicate their support during a patient’s cancer journey is by telephone calls, texts and Facetime, or similar platforms,” Williamson says. “I believe it’s okay to post publicly, but only to encourage. Otherwise, it should be done privately if intimate details about

patient health and care will be discussed.”

Tammy Salamone was diagnosed with breast cancer in early 2017. She went through 12 weeks of chemotherapy, a year of immunotherapy and two surgeries. “It was a very difficult time emotionally and physically but I am thriving now, thank goodness,” Salamone says.

For Salamone, social media has connected her with some wonderful women— many of whom she would have never met had she not received a cancer diagnosis.

“A connection like this is needed even more so since the pandemic hit.

Patients are going to doctors’ appointments and chemo treatments all alone for the first time. It can feel quite lonely and isolating,” Salamone says. “It is extremely helpful to have other survivors to ask questions, ask for encouragement on a difficult day or just send a virtual hug.”

So how do you decide if using a social media site is the best avenue of communicating a cancer patient’s progress? Quite simply, it depends on the individual and whether or not they would like support from family and friends to be public or private.

Salamone met some women who did not tell anyone outside of their immediate family what was happening to them. “While others I met made it well known and appreciated the public support and having a big group cheering them on,” Salamone says.

Salamone feels it’s best if the patient is capable of sharing the updates to family and friends, rather than having a family member or friend handle the task.

“I think it helps for others to know exactly how the patient is feeling—the good and the bad, the happy and the sad,” Salamone says. “If the patient is too sick, then it’s helpful for a family member to update the group, but they can only state the facts, not the true emotions.”

Salamone felt fortunate that her cousin and best friend set up a private Facebook page for her. Any of Salamone’s friends or family members could ask to join the group and she was able to update them on a regular basis.

“I was offered encouragement and uplifting messages,” Salamone says. “I could check the page when I was feeling down and I could truly express what was going on physically or emotionally.

I could update the page daily or weekly, depending on my schedule. It worked out perfectly for me and I was happy to have over 300 people following my cancer diagnosis right from the start.”

PostHope provides users the tools to create user-friendly, ad-free, customizable websites to receive donations, and post status updates, photos and any other relevant information. www.posthope.org/ patient-websites

Patient Advocate Foundation has a great national financial resource directory.

www.patientadvocate.org/ explore-our-resources/national-financial-resource-directory/

FamilyPatient is a nonprofit dedicated to helping keep family and friends up-to-date. www.familypatient.com

The Navigating Care Library includes articles about cancer, chemotherapy regimens and drugs from the National Cancer Institute and other experts. www.navigatingcare.com/cancer

MyLifeLine connects cancer patients to support networks to reduce isolation with personal websites and discussion boards. www.mylifeline.org

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A Dirty Secret The US is the top oil producer in the world, but emerging research is finding that a push for profit may come at the expense of citizens’ health.

BY CATHERINE MCCOY

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nvironmental circumstances can have a strong fish kills in any body of water; unusual amounts of soot or impact on our health and our risk of contracting ash on the ground; sick or dead vegetation; higher than cancer, and sometimes we don’t realize that our normal elder death rates from cancer; and friends, family daily surroundings can put us in danger. According or neighbors suffering with breathing issues from allerto a 2020 study from Dr. Stephen B. Williams, the Chief of gies or asthma.

Urology and a tenured professor of urology and radiology Although no singular “red flag” is conclusive, observat University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB), researching several in one community could be grounds for further ers have found that living in close proximity to oil refinerinvestigation. ies may increase one’s risk of cancer.

While we continue to learn more about this correla Published in the Journal of the National Cancer tion and experts uncover more about the ways that oil refinInstitute, the study showed that a total of 829,774 cancer eries can compromise health, we can begin to look more patients were living in Texas from 2001 to 2014. Of those, closely at our own environments. Williams wants law offi283,604 (34.2 percent) were living within a 30-mile radius cials to take action to protect the health and well-being of of an oil refinery. This correlation increased the closer citizens. While a handful of Texas oil refineries reported cancer patients within the radius lived to a refinery site. cancer-causing benzene levels up to 148 percent above the After controlling for age, gender, socioeconomic status, legal limit, for example, no legislative matters have been smoking, air pollution and oil-well density, the study found taken yet. The UTMB study will hopefully result in action an increased risk of all cancer types for people living within for refinery exposures as seen in other states around the 0-10 miles of an oil refinery versus people living within country.

21-30 miles of a refinery. It also found an increased risk “Federal, state and local laws can make sure refinerof more aggressive cancers according to proximity. While ies and chemical plants have to monitor all air and water these are preliminary findings and results are not conclupollutants escaping from the plant and be required to sive, they do add to environmental concerns and considerminimize all of their neighbors’ exposure,” Williams ations for community members. explains. A safety zone, where no residents own homes

Williams, along with his research around facilities and do not have access to “More often than partners, was compelled to study the envithe area within this zone, can also provide ronmental factors in Texas because the oil less exposure. not, where there is a “Establishing a safety zone by paying industry is such an instrumental part of the state’s economy. In 2019, Texas produced fracking site, there are fair market value for the residences and 1.85 billion barrels of oil, making up about higher cancer rates, helping relocate these folks to a neighbor15 percent of the state’s gross state product. hood of similar make-up and quality is the “Texas is home to the largest number leukemia, birth defects least companies can do to protect their of oil refineries, and the present project neighbors from long-term harm from the and other health was an idea from a resident and co-auindustry,” Williams says. concerns.” thor, Dr. Preston Kerr. He wanted to Williams says annual physicals are the understand if there was an association best way to monitor overall health and recof increased bladder cancer related to oil refineries,” ommends following individual screening guidelines for difWilliams explains. He then provided the infrastructure to ferent cancer types. The National Comprehensive Cancer study other cancers such as lung cancer, breast cancer and Network (NCCN) is an excellent resource for patients and prostate cancer. providers.

Justin Williams, of civil litigation firm Williams While these research findings are only the beginning, Attorneys PLLC and author of “Crude, Slick and Deadly: it is a worthy reminder to be aware of one’s surroundings.

Exposing the Dark Side of Big Oil,” says the fracking and Until corporations can operate with the safety of comoil industry can greatly affect communities at large. munity members in mind, remember to schedule screen “Fracking has benefits to the production of oil and gas. ings and stay on top of your health, stay positive and live However, it must be done with more precautions in place healthily. Your health is more important than any profit and more concern for the safety of those around it and the margin and we hope to see changes and legal action where environment, including the groundwater and aquifers,” he it is due in the near future. says. “The dangers of cancer are just now being more fully understood, so safety must be a priority. The community surrounding any fracking must be told of the risks of fracking and the latest knowledge of cancer-causing chemicals and should be entitled to all best safety practices.”

Williams often defends clients who have been affected by the fracking industry and he notes the correlation between cancer and fracking sites. “Cancer clusters are being identified all over the U.S.,” he says. “More often than not, where there is a fracking site, there are higher cancer rates, leukemia, birth defects and other health concerns.”

Justin Williams’ “Crude, Slick and Deadly: Exposing the Dark Side Williams also identified “red flags” for people living of Big Oil” will soon be available for purchase through Amazon near refineries. Some of these include animals refusing and Barnes & Noble. For more information on screening guidelines to drink groundwater from lakes or streams; unexplained through the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, visit nccn.org.

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the supporter

BRAD BEETHAM AS TOLD TO BRITT JULIOUS

My daughter was diagnosed with stage IV lymphoblastic lymphoma in 2010. She was 10.

I was introduced to Cal’s Angels while we were at the Lurie Children’s Hospital going through Maddie’s treatments. The initial meeting that I had with Stacey Wahlberg and Tom Sutter at the hospital was just an energy that was obviously very needed at that time. On that day, we were there for an infusion, so we were there for about eight hours of chemo. I knew at that point, in one way, shape or form, I was going to contribute to the organization.

To hear more from Brad, visit cancerwellness.com

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Cancer Wellness

I started out just doing some miscellaneous things here and there. They asked me to be a board member about five years ago. I’ve since graduated to an executive board member as of about two years ago. I do a lot with the fall awareness campaign with the athletic programs at the high schools and obviously [help with] supporting our gala, which is our biggest event.

War on Wheels started two years ago. I’m not a spring chicken anymore. I’m 47 years old, but I’m an athlete by nature. Our first ride was from Santa Monica, California back to St. Charles, Illinois. That took about a month. That was an amazing event. 36 days, 2600 miles.

This past year, we rode from Iowa City to St. Charles.

University of Iowa has an amazing children’s hospital. We wanted to establish a relationship with them as another hospital that we can work with and donate funds for research.

We weren’t gonna be able to put together another two week or four week ride logistically this year. So I just said, “Let’s do something that’s grueling, that’s intense and that we know we can control. Let’s ride for 24 straight hours.”

How long can you stay on a bike? You’re going to be on a bike for—besides rest breaks—24 straight hours, up and down hills, riding in the dark. There are animals.

Different things can go wrong. We had rain when we started in Iowa. That was absolutely miserable. Then you’ve got a psychological battle. These demons come.

You’re like, I just can’t do this. I almost lost my daughter.

She’s a senior now and in remission and healthy, but I had to rely on that fear I had and that anger.

We had a finish line with two kids who are fighting cancer right now holding a little yellow ribbon finish line. It’s one of those things where you [feel] emotional.

All six of us huddled up and hugged each other and said our piece. It was an amazing experience.

Photo by John Khuu

I knew at that point, in one way, shape or form, I was going to contribute to the organization.

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