Cancer Wellness Magazine: The Men's Health Issue with Nathan Adrian (Summer 2022) by cancerwellness

SUMMER 2022

MOVEMBER HOW A MUSTACHE IS CHANGING THE GAME FOR MEN’S HEALTH

TO THE SCREEN THE STORY BEHIND US $10.00

“THE SIMPSONS” UNIBOOB CHARACTER DR. WENDY SAGE

Learn about practical and legal topics impacting the cancer community: • Choosing and using health insurance – while saving money • Managing medical bills & how to get free help • Working through treatment, and how to take time oﬀ and pay for it • Applying for disability insurance • Accessing ﬁnancial help • Estate planning All of your practical essentials + free registration, gift bags, & prizes! TriageCancer.org/Conferences

Need FREE help now? Webinar Series TriageCancer.org/Webinars

Practical Guide to Cancer Rights: Navigating Employment, Insurance, & Finances An understanding of your rights can improve your quality of life, reduce stress and anxiety, and can mean the diﬀerence between losing your job, your health insurance, or even your home! Download your free copy and view our full series of Practical Guides to Cancer Rights:

TriageCancer.org/CancerRightsGuides

Legal & Financial Navigation Program For free one-on-one help, ﬁll out the quick form at TriageCancer.org/GetHelp

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SPLASH INTO SUMMER

Photos provided by subjects in magazine

ith the summer heat ramping up and pools opening for the season, Cancer Wellness is also making waves with Issue 15’s cover star, Nathan Adrian. Read about his journey with testicular cancer and how cancer never stopped him from doing what he loves and giving back (p. 44). This is our annual Men’s Health issue, and it’s full of resources and support tailored specifically for men. I am also excited to highlight the Movember Foundation, a leading nonprofit that is changing the face of men’s health with its groundbreaking strides in prostate cancer, testicular cancer and mental health and suicide prevention (p. 36). We are also so grateful to the cancer community for allowing us to feature yet another article all about our readers (p. 42). This time, we asked, “What do you wish your doctors understood about the cancer journey?” The responses we received were eye-opening and will help strengthen doctor-patient relationships when it comes to the cancer care continuum. Speaking of doctors, we also want to shed light on the tremendous work that so many doctors and oncologists are doing for cancer warriors, while also empowering you to choose the doctor that is the best fit for your health and needs. Sarah DiMuro’s thought-provoking article examines the hard truths of breaking up with an oncologist in order to find one who better suits your journey (p. 24). I hope this summer brings you time to travel, relax and be with your loved ones. Let this season be one of warmth and light. And happy reading! Natalia Espinosa, Editor-in-Chief nespinosa@cancerwellness.com

Cancer Wellness

SUMMER 2022

MAKING WAVES

CW ONLINE

CW AGENDA

NUTRITION 14

DAY AND NIGHT From dawn to dusk, we’ve got your meal plans covered with hearty, healthy recipes fit for any time of day.

HEALTH 24

BREAKING THINGS OFF Sometimes your oncologist just isn’t the right fit—and it’s OK to find someone else who is.

MIND & BODY 32

MAN UP: MAKE THAT APPOINTMENT It’s time to stop avoiding the doctor.

AROUND TOWN

TO THE SCREEN The story behind “The Simpsons” uniboob character Dr. Wendy Sage.

INNOVATIONS & RESEARCH

ENTERTAINMENT

RESOURCES 62

CHANGING THE GAME Movember is raising funds and awareness for mental health, prostate cancer and testicular cancer.

AWARENESS THROUGH ART Renowned comic book artist J.G. Jones is using his artistic talent for good.

THE MORE YOU KNOW These less invasive screening options for men are changing the game.

SEARCHING FOR SUPPORT In the cancer support landscape, groups tailored specifically to men offer a unique outlet.

Cancer Wellness

CAYLEI VOGELZANG Founder NATALIA ESPINOSA Editor-in-Chief + Creative Director TAYLOR NOVAK Editorial Director FEATURES Editor-at-Large MIRELA KOPIER Editorial Assistant FRANCESCA HALIKIAS SOCIAL MEDIA STRATEGIST CATHERINE COYKENDALL CONTRIBUTING WRITERS SHANA BULL, DR. MONYA DE, SAMANTHA DEVICTOR, SARAH DIMURO, ASHLEY DINGEL, CATHERINE EVES, MAURA KELLER, MEGHAN KONKOL, JOANNA MORALES, SARA QUIRICONI, AMBER SULLIVAN COVER PHOTOGRAPHER MARC OLIVIER LE BLANC EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD NATALIE CRAIG, DENA DODD PERRY, SHIKHA JAIN, GAIL PRINS, GLEN STEVENS OPERATIONS MANAGER ISABEL GARCIA SYSTEMS ADMINISTRATOR JACK SAXE-STARAL EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT ANTONIJA ROGIC

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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“IT’S IMPORTANT TO REMEMBER THAT HARDSHIP EXISTS ONLY IN THE CONTEXT OF A LIFE. IF WE LOSE SIGHT OF THAT CONTEXT, WE LOSE OUR INCENTIVE TO SURVIVE.”

#cW MANTRA

– Joni Rodgers

Cancer Wellness

cW Online

WHAT YOU MAY HAVE MISSED OPEN MIND, OPEN HEART

CW PLAYLIST SOLSTICE

Holly Hammond was only 28 when diagnosed with TNBC. Now, she’s redefining “terminal.”

From familiar favorites to nifty newbies, Issue 15’s tracklist sounds like summer. To instantly access the playlist, open the Spotify app. Tap Search then the camera icon to scan Spotify code.

TRACKLIST • LOVELY DAY – BILL WITHERS • ‘CAUSE I’M A MAN – TAME IMPALA • JUST LIKE HEAVEN – THE CURE • SAIL ON, SAILOR – THE BEACH BOYS • SPOON – MAZZY STAR • SUMMER HOLIDAY – WILD NOTHING • TAKE ON THE WORLD – WAVVES

DOWN TO THE WIRE

Underwire bras are a no-go after reconstruction. The recent Everyday Runway spotlights wire-free options for your next shopping spree.

• TAKE IT EASY – EAGLES • FRIEND OF THE DEVIL – GRATEFUL DEAD • FLOWERS – GALAXIE 500 • DRIFT AWAY – DOBIE GRAY

More stories at CancerWellness.com

• FADER – THE TEMPER TRAP

ON @CANCERWELLMAG, WE SHARED YOUR INCREDIBLE SURVIVOR STORIES.

• SOAK UP THE SUN – SHERYL CROW • CORONA AND LIME – SHWAYZE • LIGHTENUP – PARCELS • LISZTOMANIA – PHOENIX • LEGENDS NEVER DIE – ORVILLE PECK, SHANIA TWAIN • RICH GIRL – DARYL HALL & JOHN OATES • PICTURE IN MY MIND – FAYE WEBSTER • FORGET THE FLOWERS – WILCO

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The cW Agenda

ALL THE NEWS YOU NEED TO KNOW PERILOUS PAIRING

A new study in Nature Cell Biology has revealed a link between type 2 diabetes and breast cancer, highlighting a need for breast cancer screening and diabetes screening to go hand in hand.

THE EYE OF AI

A study in Cancer Biomarkers is further revealing the power of artificial intelligence. An AI tool was able to capture and quantify small, early signs of pancreatic cancer just by analyzing a patient’s CT scans.

ON THE RISE

Typically seen in older demographics, esophageal cancer cases in those aged 45 to 64 have nearly doubled since 2012. Symptoms usually arise later, but look out for difficulty swallowing, coughing and heartburn.

A NEW LIFELINE

A Cedars-Sinai Cancer study has shown that a new combination therapy extends the lives of men living with prostate cancer. When used together, androgen deprivation therapy and pelvic lymph node radiation kept almost 90 percent of patients’ prostate cancer at bay for five years.

A LEADING LIGHT

A new study in the Journal of Biological and Medical Rhythm Research found that customizing light therapy for breast cancer patients can improve warriors’ sleep quality and combat fatigue. Let there be light!

SCALING BACK

Lung cancer is extremely common but also prone to overdiagnosis and overtreatment. A new model, detailed in the journal Cancer Biomarkers, aims to better identify high-risk and low-risk tumors through MRI and CT scan data.

PATCHWORK

Feeling queasy? Sancuso can help. The company behind the first and only FDA-approved prescription patch for nausea and vomiting in chemo patients recently solidified a partnership to offer the patch throughout most of the U.S.

OH, BABY

If you’re a woman who experienced childhood cancer and are hoping to conceive, good news! The Journal of the National Cancer Institute has published a study determining that the likelihood of having a healthy baby is the same as any other non-warrior.

BUGGING OUT

Bees, worms, ants—all of these creepy crawlies can help fight cancer. Numerous studies are focusing on bees’ honey as well as worms’ and ants’ sense of smell to detect and treat different cancer types.

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THE WARRIOR

Joe Cutri AS TOLD TO TAYLOR NOVAK

Cancer Wellness

Photo provided by Joe Cutri

I’

d been married for a year and we were in the there was going to be a little bit of a break and then I was process of moving when I was diagnosed. At the going to do 35 or 36 rounds of radiation followed by surgery to time, I had started a new diet regimen and was have the area removed as long as everything was going OK. monitoring changes in my bowel movements. I It was really hard, especially finding out right before started to notice that there was blood. the holidays. Right away, my thoughts That was when I decided to go see the are, ‘This is going to be my last doctor, and I was diagnosed. They Christmas.’ I’d only been married for took a biopsy from my colonoscopy a year; we hadn’t had any kids yet. Was “I’d only been and that’s when the cancer was found. I ever going to get to be a father? It was definitely a huge shock, But I have an awesome support married for a year; especially because no one in my family system, like my parents. My mom we hadn’t had any had it. I had smoked for a few years came to every appointment with and I knew I was at risk with that, but I me—every single chemo treatment, kids yet. Was I never imagined that I would get cancer. every single radiation. She was there ever going to get I was able to get in right away with for everything. My wife, my brothan oncologist at Hackensack and they ers—they were all awesome and supto be a father?” already had a plan in place. They sent portive. Other people were reaching me for additional scans to see exactly out over social media, even people I what the extent was. They confirmed didn’t know. I had a really, really good that it was stage IIIA. Then, support system through it all. we planned for me We lost one of my brothers two years ago [during the to begin eight pandemic]. In between the cancer and losing my brother, it’s rounds of made me cherish every minute I spend with my kid now. chemo. I can’t even really put it into words. A fter I work all day. Sometimes I don’t even get that, to say bye to my son in the morning, but I always make sure I spend time with him at night. On the weekends, I’m always with him. In no way, shape or form it is like it used to be where I would go out with my friends and my wife would do her thing. I stay with them. I ’m bettering myself, like changing the way I eat so I’m not eating things that could make my cancer come back. I’m trying to stay active and work out as much as I can. It’s important for people to know how serious it is. A lot of people think a little bit of blood is not a big deal. My story should be out there for younger people. It’s important, whether people have a history of cancer in their family or not. People need to know and be informed. Push harder, get things done, get treatments and get yourself taken care of and on the right path so you’re around longer for the people who care about you.

Good Scents to Give Back Benefiscent Candle Company’s products give back to cancer research in an environmentally friendly fashion with a personal touch.

Photo provided by Benefiscent

“I

BY FRANCESCA HALIKIAS

know a candle can’t fix all your problems, but it can make you feel warm, it can make you feel cozy and it can make you catch a moment of happiness every time you breathe in and smell that great scent,” says Benefiscent Candle Company founder Taylor Graustein. Both Graustein and her father, Robert Graustein, have been making and selling handmade sustainable candles to benefit cancer research since 2015. What originally began as a high school service project has evolved into a business close to the Grausteins’ hearts. Benefiscent has donated more than $22,000 to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, where Graustein’s mother was treated for brain cancer before passing away on the eve of Graustein’s 14th birthday. The concept for Benefiscent first came from Graustein’s high school service project, Candles for a Cure. She constructed candles and donated proceeds to cancer research. Before her senior year of college, Graustein and her dad spent the summer brainstorming ways in which Candles for a Cure could get into the business of giving back. It was in 2020 during her senior year at Wake Forest University that Graustein worked with the director of her college’s startup lab program to turn Benefiscent into a company that promoted cancer research and awareness while doing good for the environment. “It started as more of a healing process to be able to do something and give back and feel like I had the power to make a difference out of a situation where I felt so out of control,” Graustein explains. “I was very young when my mom first got sick, and I was also young when she passed. I didn’t have any control over the situation in any way. I think that [starting Benefiscent] really did help me in that regard.” The business is operated mostly online and ships candles all over the country, with 20 percent of all sales donated to cancer research. Graustein also prioritizes connecting with her customers in person through pop-up events whenever she can. “People pour their hearts out to us [at pop-up events]. It’s really incredible,” Graustein says. She displays a photo of her and her mom at every pop-up, and it has

inspired people to share their own stories. These gatherings have developed into a source of healing for Graustein. “It reminds me why I do what I do,” says Graustein. “I try to approach it from a perspective of understanding and being like, ‘Hey, I’ve been through this, I get you, we don’t really need to talk about it. We’re here to support you and realize life is precious. These moments of happiness are so special.’” When it comes to the future of Benefiscent, Graustein is just getting started. The business recently entered a wholesale marketplace with the goal of putting Benefiscent candles onto store shelves. Graustein has also made it her mission to create socially responsible and sustainable candles, aiming to ditch plastic entirely by 2024. And, of course, Benefiscent will continue donating and giving back to cancer research. “That time of life [when my mom passed away] is so scary and so dark,” says Graustein, “but I think what’s really important and what I try to do now is [remember] that there is no magic thing. Life isn’t about some tangible thing. Life is about love and these small moments of happiness.” For more information, visit benefiscent.com.

Cancer Wellness

A Good Night’s Rest When going through cancer treatment, catching some Z’s is more important than ever—but it’s not always easy. BY TAYLOR NOVAK

o you find yourself tossing and turning between the sheets? We all know that a solid night of sleep sets the next day up for success through restoration of our physical and mental health. But the impact that quality sleep (or lack thereof) has on the cancer journey specifically is even more crucial. Treatment introduces a host of sleep troubles due to hospital stays, medication side effects and added stress. But at the same time, rest is exactly what you need when fighting cancer—damaged cells and DNA are repaired at night when we sleep. “One of the main reasons why restful slumber is so important is its ability to affect hormonal regulation,” says Dr. Po-Chang Hsu, M.D. “Lack of sleep leads to increased cortisol and estrogen, both of which increase the risks of breast cancer in women. Lack of sleep also leads to a lower level of melatonin, which has antioxidant properties for preventing cancer.” Oncologist Akshar Patel delves even deeper into the importance of sleep for warriors, noting the following components and their impact on preventing or coping with cancer: SLEEP DURATION Generally, people who sleep less than six hours per night have an increased cancer risk. Short sleep duration increases the risk of colon polyps that can turn into cancer. Even long sleep duration (more than nine hours) can be one of the factors for liver or breast cancer development. SLEEP QUALITY Poor sleep has been linked to increased discomfort, longer hospital stays and a higher risk of complications in women having breast cancer surgery. Another study found that men with interrupted sleep cycles had a higher chance of prostate cancer relapse.

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CIRCADIAN RHYTHM Circadian rhythm is the body’s intrinsic clock that runs 24/7. Its disruption can lead to the development of tumor cells as it is responsible for cell growth and division in our body. Cancer treatments frequently target particular proteins, enzymes, or receptors on the cell surface, and the majority of these are influenced by circadian timing. SLEEP DISORDER Studies have shown that sleep disorders such as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) can create conditions to develop tumor cells. Some forms of chemotherapy and radiation therapy have the best impact when oxygen levels in tumor tissue are high. Therefore, hypoxia from OSA may prevent these therapies from working efficiently. So how can you escape the vicious cycle of needing quality sleep but feeling prevented from getting it? “It’s important to maximize the benefits from nonpharmacological interventions before prescribing another pill, which often has side effects and can interact with oncology medications,” says Dr. Danielle Kelvas, M.D. According to Kelvas, current guidelines show that cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness-based stress reduction exercises can really help. You can also take steps to improve your sleep hygiene firsthand. Ensure your sleeping environment is dark, cool and quiet (or switch on that noise machine if you want some background sound!). Avoid caffeine or alcohol for at least five hours before bedtime and try to limit screen time for an hour or two. If you find that you cannot fall asleep 15 minutes after settling into bed, get up and move around a bit before coming back and trying again. Ultimately, everyone’s sleep plan is different, and you may have to test out different methods before landing on a routine that works for you. If you find you’re still not getting the quality sleep you need, discuss your medications with your care team to see if there’s room for adjustments. Sweet dreams!

ASK THE DOCTOR

Dr. David Tom Cooke, M.D., F.A.C.S., is a thoracic oncologist and surgeon who specializes in lung cancer, esophageal cancer and robotic surgery at UC Davis Medical Center. BY TAYLOR NOVAK

HOW HAS THE LUNG CANCER SPACE EVOLVED SINCE YOU ENTERED THE FIELD? The field has evolved greatly. When I was a medical student at Harvard Medical School, much of thoracic surgery was performed with large incisions. We had very little resources to improve patient outcomes. Now, 80 percent of my surgeries for early-stage lung cancer are performed minimally invasively with small incisions and a robot. We have personalized medicine where we study patients’ tumors, identify unique signatures (mutations) and treat them either before surgery or after surgery with targeted therapy. In addition, we have immunotherapy to increase the chance for cure. These are all amazing innovations that have occurred within the last decade.

Photo provided by Dr. David Tom Cooke, M.D., F.A.C.S.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF ROBOTIC SURGERY COMPARED TO OTHER FORMS OF TUMOR REMOVAL SURGERY? Robotic lung surgery has led to less blood loss during surgery, improved pain after surgery, shorter hospital stays and return to work and activities of daily living faster for our [lung] patients. In addition, minimally invasive surgery leads to a better chance of survival after surgery compared to traditional open surgery with a large incision. Almost anyone who’s a candidate for lung cancer surgery is a candidate for robotic surgery. WHAT DOES YOUR PATIENT-CENTRIC CARE LOOK LIKE IN DAILY INTERACTIONS WITH PATIENTS? I believe in patient-centered and human-centered care. This means understanding a patient’s lung cancer journey from their perspective. That includes acknowledging the anxiety a patient may feel when they are diagnosed, their concerns about being treated and the outcomes that are most important to them, other than surviving lung cancer, after treatment. This includes looking at their whole needs. It starts with proper informed consent about surgery, including their risk for chronic pain after surgery. It includes having them evaluated by our social workers to help them manage diagnosis-related anxiety and stress.

potential surgical resection for our underserved communities when diagnosed. That also means offering innovative, next-level care including robotic lung cancer surgery. It is critical that underserved communities get access to these lifesaving innovations. If a surgeon doesn’t consider health care disparities in their assessments and is not skilled in culturally competent communication with the communities they serve, then they are not doing their job. HOW DID #LCSM FORM AND WHY DID YOU FEEL IT WAS A NECESSARY NETWORK? The #LCSM movement is a patient-focused collaborative based in social media started by me and a medical oncologist, a lung cancer survivor and two advocates whose mothers had passed away from lung cancer. We came together because we found there was a lack of community online within the lung cancer space. Through this, #LCSM Chat was born. Primarily Twitter-based, this movement has had over a billion impressions, has been adopted by multiple different stakeholders including the National Cancer Institute and has been featured in the New York Times. The creation of this supportive community, grounded in evidence-based medicine, is one of my greatest achievements. HOW IMPORTANT IS SURGERY IN LUNG CANCER CASES? It is important to understand that surgery is the standard of care treatment and best chance for cure for patients with early stage lung cancer. Modern surgeons have adopted minimally invasive techniques, including robotics, to maximize the positive outcomes for our patients. Despite this, surgery is underutilized in some patient populations and underserved communities. Patients should be empowered to seek out expert opinions on their cancer care.

WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FINDINGS WITHIN THE LUNG CANCER SPACE REGARDING RACIAL DIFFERENCES? Lung cancer is the number one cancer killer for Black/African Americans. Black/African American males are more likely to die from lung cancer than their white counterparts. In addition, Black/African Americans are less likely to undergo surgery for early stage lung cancer. It is imperative that we eliminate these disparities, and this includes offering curative

Cancer Wellness

d n a y a D t h g i N From dawn to dusk, we’ve got your meal plans covered with hearty, healthy recipes fit for any time of day. BY AMBER SULLIVAN

Cancer Wellness

SHEET PAN SALMON GRAIN BOWL Yield: 2– 3 servings

INGREDIENTS

Baked salmon 1 salmon 1 lemon, sliced into rounds and juice from half a lemon 1 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon cracked pepper 2 tablespoons avocado or olive oil 1 teaspoon honey 1/2 teaspoon soy sauce 1/4 teaspoon chili flake 3 sprigs of fresh dill (or 1/2 teaspoon dried dill) Roasted sweet potato and red onion 1 tablespoon avocado or olive oil 2 sweet potatoes, cut into wedges 1 red onion, cut into wedges 1 teaspoon Kosher salt 1/4 teaspoon cracked pepper 1/2 teaspoon paprika 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder Lemon honey mustard 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice from 1 large lemon 1 tablespoon yellow mustard 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard 1.5 tablespoons honey 1/2 cup olive oil 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon cracked pepper Miscellaneous 1 cup farro or brown rice, cooked according to instructions on package (optional) 4 cups mixed leafy greens Fresh herbs like dill or cilantro

DIRECTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 375 F. In a bowl, add sweet potato wedges and red onion wedges, drizzle with oil and spices and toss to combine. 2. Lightly spray sheet pan with nonstick spray. Spread bowl contents onto pan. Sprinkle a bit of salt and place into preheated oven. 16

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3. On another sheet pan, layer 2 pieces of foil (large enough to wrap around your salmon) with one horizontal and one vertical. Spray lightly with nonstick spray and place salmon on top. 4. In a jar, add all of baked salmon ingredients except for lemon rounds. Shake vigorously until combined and drizzle mixture over salmon. 5. Place lemon rounds on top and in between salmon pieces (if cut into filets). Wrap foil around salmon and place in oven. 6. Bake salmon for 18–25 minutes, depending on thickness, until cooked through. Internal temperature should be 140 F. 7. Uncover carefully and place oven on broil. Let salmon and vegetables broil for 3–5 minutes until slightly golden on top. Then, take out of oven to cool. 8. In same jar used for the salmon marinade, add honey mustard ingredients. Shake vigorously until combined. Taste and season with additional salt and pepper if desired. 9. In a large bowl, mix leafy greens, cooked farro or brown rice, roasted sweet potato and red onion wedges, fresh herbs and a few spoonfuls of honey mustard to taste. Mix until combined and coated. 10. Add a pinch of salt, separate into bowls and place salmon on top. Squeeze some fresh lemon, drizzle a bit of oil and enjoy!

GREEK LEMONY CHICKEN SOUP Yield: 3– 4 servings

INGREDIENTS

2 tablespoons avocado oil or olive oil 5 garlic cloves, minced 1 yellow onion, chopped 4 celery stalks, chopped 10 cups chicken stock 2 sprigs fresh oregano and/or thyme 1 rotisserie chicken, shredded with bones removed 4 cups spinach, roughly chopped

1/2 cup lemon juice of 2 large lemons 2 eggs 2 teaspoons salt Fresh dill, olive oil and cracked pepper for toppings

DIRECTIONS

1. In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté onion and celery for 7–8 minutes. 2. Add garlic, cooking for another 2 minutes. Then, pour in chicken stock, increase heat and bring to a soft boil. 3. Turn heat down to medium, add fresh oregano and thyme if using and simmer for 20–30 minutes. 4. In a bowl, whisk 2 eggs with lemon juice. Carefully take 1 cup of the hot chicken stock and slowly add to eggs and lemon juice bowl, whisking constantly. 5. Remove oregano and thyme from heat. Pour egg and lemon mixture into soup pot. 6. Add in pulled/shredded rotisserie chicken and spinach to soup pot. Stir and season with salt. 7. Once spinach is wilted and soup is hot, serve in bowls and top with generous handfuls of fresh chopped dill, drizzle of olive oil and cracked pepper.

TIPS

- Wrap fresh herbs in a damp paper towel and place inside a sealed bag to keep fresh longer. - For slicing or chopping, cutting vegetables into “strips” and then into cubes is the easiest way to get a uniform chop. - Using a jar to make and save marinades or dressing in the fridge makes for easy clean up. - Placing a flat and folded damp paper towel under a cutting board prevents it from sliding or moving while you are chopping—which also makes it safer. - Adding fresh herbs, a drizzle of olive oil, a squeeze of fresh lemon or a pinch of sea salt can elevate any dish you make at home.

Cancer Wellness

CINNABUTTER OVERNIGHT OATS Yield: 2 servings

INGREDIENTS

1 cup old-fashioned oats 1 tablespoon chia seeds 1 1/2 cup almond milk or preferred non-dairy milk 2 tablespoons peanut butter or nut butter 1 teaspoon cinnamon 2 tablespoons maple syrup 1/4 teaspoon sea salt Optional toppings Sliced banana Blueberries Hemp or flax seeds Cacao nibs Coconut flakes Maple syrup or honey drizzle

DIRECTIONS

1. In a bowl, mix all ingredients. 2. Pour mixed ingredients into jar. Fasten lid. 3. Allow to sit overnight. 4. The next morning, add toppings of your choice. Eat right out of the jar or pour into a bowl and enjoy. Note: The longer the mix sits, the thicker it gets. Feel free to add a splash or two of milk to reach preferred consistency.

Cancer Wellness

GREEN SHAKSHUKA Yield: 2– 3 servings

INGREDIENTS

1 tablespoon avocado oil or olive oil 2 garlic cloves, minced 2 shallots, sliced or 1/2 yellow onion, sliced 1/3 cup scallion/green onion, white and light green parts only, chopped 5 ounces spinach 3 ounces arugula, rough chopped 2 heaping tablespoons plain yogurt 1/4 teaspoon cracked pepper 1 teaspoon sea salt 4 large eggs Sliced and toasted sourdough bread 1/2 cup of green salsa (optional) Optional toppings Crumbled feta cheese Mixed herbs (i.e., fresh dill, cilantro, green onion, chives, etc.) Sliced avocado “Everything” seasoning Za’atar seasoning Toasted sesame seeds Chili flakes Olive oil drizzle

COCONUT CREAM SUMMER FRUIT SALAD Yield: 2– 3 servings

INGREDIENTS

Coconut whipped cream 2 cans full fat coconut milk or cream left in the fridge for over 3 hours 1 1/2 tablespoons maple syrup or choice sweetener 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Fruit salad 1/2 cup purple grapes, sliced in half 1/4 cup raspberries 1/4 cup blueberries 1/4 cup blackberries 1 cup strawberries, sliced in half 2 oranges, peeled and cut into chunks 1/2 lime juice or zest (optional) Torn mint leaves Other fruit options: kiwi, pineapple, pomegranate seeds, mango, peaches, nectarines, banana

DIRECTIONS

1. Place coconut milk or cream in fridge to chill and separate. 2. Open can and carefully scoop out top portion of coconut cream only, leaving behind watery remains. 3. Place portion in bowl with maple syrup or other sweetener and vanilla extract. With a whisk or hand mixer attachment, whisk the cream until it’s thoroughly combined with sweetener and vanilla. 4. Continue to whisk until the cream resembles whipped cream (3–7 minutes). Meanwhile, toss fruit into bowl and add torn mint leaves and optional lime zest/juice. 5. Serve in bowl alongside coconut whipped cream and enjoy!

DIRECTIONS

1. In a pan over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of avocado oil. 2. Once the oil is shimmery and hot, add sliced shallot (or onion) and sauté for about 4 minutes. 3. Add garlic and minced scallion. Sauté for another 2–3 minutes until fragrant. 4. Fold in spinach and chopped arugula, and cook for another 2 minutes until greens are slightly softened. 5. Fold in yogurt and optional salsa, stirring until combined. 6. Add sea salt and cracked pepper. 7. Make 4 small wells in the mixture to crack eggs in. Crack 1 egg in each well. Add a tiny pinch of salt and pepper on each egg. 8. Cover pan and reduce heat to low/ medium. Let cook for 3–5 minutes depending on eggs preference. 9. Remove lid and add preferred toppings. Serve shakshuka by spooning mixture on top of toasted sourdough bread. Cancer Wellness

AdventHealth Provides Hope for Lung Cancer Patients Throughout Florida By Francesca Halikias

“I think our job as physicians is to bring hope to our patients,” remarks Dr. Marcelo DaSilva, medical director of thoracic surgery at AdventHealth in Orlando, Florida. AdventHealth has been striving to determine the most consistent way to care for patients, and in 2023 it will be launching several new programs, including an artificial intelligence language mining program, to help serve the community as best it can. The AI will include AdventHealth’s lung screening program, which will allow for more efficient patient awareness and care, especially for those patients that smoke. These new innovations are made possible by the implementation of Epic—a major healthcare software company—and will give both patients and caregivers seamless access to health records no matter where the patient is at. “So, someone comes to the emergency room and the ER reports read anything—lung cancer, lung nodule, lung mass—and anything that we put in there would be mined in this [program] that then generates a report that goes to our tumor board,” explains DaSilva. The information would then be collected from those patients so that there is a best course of action when determining treatment options. On the diagnostics side, AdventHealth has also acquired robotic assisted bronchoscopy (RAB), which allows doctors to be minimally invasive through a bronchoscope to better help diagnose patients. The hospital is hoping that in October of this year it will join a national clinical trial for intertumoral delivery of chemotherapy to tumors with this technology. “I think in the next five years or the next decade, we’re going to see survival rates in lung cancer that we’ve never seen before, and that to me is amazing,” says DaSilva. But DaSilva stresses how it’s not just one person making a difference in patient healthcare, it’s everyone on the team.

“These medical oncologists [at AdventHealth] are excellent,” DaSilva says. “They make this program vibrant by challenging us at every step of the way. We present cases that I think, wow, this is really challenging for all of us, but together with our collective knowledge and minds, we offer our patients the best care we can possibly give them. We feel confident that wherever they go, we’ll match the same care they get someplace else.” Of course, all patients are fearful when it comes to a cancer diagnosis, and while DaSilva acknowledges this, he doesn’t let fear flood the minds of any of his patients, instead opting to turn being a “victim” into being “victorious.” “What I tell them is [to not] worry about that. Let’s not be a victim, but victorious,” DaSilva states. “Let’s stay on the same ‘v’. Let’s walk this path together, let’s get the treatment going as soon as we can, whatever that may be.” In terms of DaSilva’s personal and professional goals, he endeavors to treat every patient as a full person, instead of as a disease or illness. “Bringing [patients] into the system and offering what we call the whole person care [is] the vision of AdventHealth,” he expresses. “Yes, you’re coming in here for lung cancer, but how about your diet? How about your cardiovascular situation? How about your arthritis? Whatever it may be, [we have a] vision that we can see every patient as a whole person, not just as a disease process.” AdventHealth is looking forward to its many new and exciting updates for patients in the months and years to come.

Learn more at AdventHealthCancerInstitute.com.

A Different Kind of Life

Nick Aiello entered uncharted territory after a testicular cancer diagnosis at 28 and exited with a toolbox to chase a more fulfilling life.

Photo provided by Nick Aiello

BY CATHERINE EVES

t only 37 years old, Nick Aiello has an incredi Then springtime hit Chicago, and his immune system bly diverse set of work experiences. He’s a rare wasn’t strong enough to go out with his friends or travel; breed—someone who not only knows what his support system dwindled, and Aiello didn’t want to he wants but goes out to get it. In the past 10 worry anyone with the truth about how bad he felt, both years, he’s transitioned from finance to filmmaking to real physically and mentally. estate to entrepreneurship and more. A few months later, he attempted to return to work. “I sat But Aiello hasn’t always been familiar with the freedom down and looked at my to-do list like it was any other day [and] that comes with bypassing the fear of failure—the kind that was snapped right back to mundane work tasks,” Aiello explains. lets you set out for uncharted territory, hoping for the best “I was like, ‘Oh wow, I just went through all of that [to] come in but recognizing things don’t always turn out as planned. here eight hours a day to make calls about mutual funds? What Because Aiello knows that as all too true. Back in 2013, he did I just do all that for? Why did I go through all the effort to get was reasonably happy, working at a top finance firm. But through chemo to live a life I wasn’t really happy with?’” then something happened that no one ever plans for. Eventually, he joined a mindfulness study for young When he was just 28, Aiello was diagnosed with tesadult cancer patients, which focused on reducing stress ticular cancer. He was hosting friends for dinner one night and anxiety through yoga and meditation. He was able when he started feeling pains he associto emerge from his post-treatment ated with appendicitis, so they headed depression. Later, he would channel to the emergency room together. After his love of comedy and improv by some tests, the doctor delivered the becoming active with the Chicago “Why did I go news of his diagnosis with Aiello’s chapter of Gilda’s Club. through all the friends and family surrounding him. But these changes took time. “In that early part of diagnosis, Before joining the study, Aiello felt effort to get I felt really lucky to have so many disconnected from the cancer comthrough chemo to people around,” he says. munity. “I didn’t want cancer to define Aiello had surgery less than a week me. [I thought], ‘I’m going to get past live a life I wasn’t later. He went out with friends and family this and I don’t have to think about it to celebrate. Then, between the appetizagain.’ Finally meeting people my age really happy with?’” ers and the main course, he got a call. The who were going through something cancer had spread and he would need to [similar], I just felt my shoulders relax; start chemotherapy right away. it was pretty special.” “That kind of ruined everyone’s dinner,” Aiello says. With these new tools, Aiello felt ready to leave his “That was another time it was nice to have people around.” finance job to pursue his passions. He started a real estate He had ample support throughout nine weeks of chemo, business with a friend, got involved with indie filmmaking which was particularly harsh due to his notoriously fast-growing and took singing and guitar lessons. cancer. But it was hard being so young. He lost all of his energy, “I went from finance to real estate to film production then his hair. He developed many of the chemo faithfuls—neuto tech and business development, and now to writing,” ropathy, ringing in the ears, a change in taste and smell. Aiello says. When his business didn’t work out, he rec Once Aiello became familiar with the rigors of cheognized another oppormotherapy, he tried to look on the bright side. “I didn’t tunity to chase his think too much about what I was missing out on; it was dreams, joining a film winter in Chicago,” he says. “If you’re going to go through production. He started chemo, February to April is not a terrible time to do it.” writing and, just recently, The nine weeks eventually passed. “I got through it, was accepted into the and a few things surprised me when I was done,” Aiello writing MFA program begins. “I thought once chemo ended, [my energy] would at the School of the Art pick back up, but it really didn’t come back all that quickly, Institute of Chicago. He and that was pretty frustrating for me. In my mind, I had starts this fall. to get to this end goal, get through this last treatment and “It may differ among [then I’m] free to go back to normal life.” theologies and religions, But as many cancer warriors and thrivers know, but for the most part, you cancer doesn’t work that way. only know for sure that Aiello found out that chemotherapy wouldn’t be the you get this one life,” says worst of it. “It was harder once treatment was done—menAiello. “Now I want to go tally—because I had so much support during it, and so after things; I don’t want many people around,” he says. to have regrets.” Cancer Wellness

On the Lookout Side effects aren’t always minor. Familiarizing yourself with your medications and symptoms can be a lifesaver in serious situations. BY FRANCESCA HALIKIAS

Cancer Wellness

ith the death of actor and comedian weak or dizzy, go to the doctor. Even if you don’t see blood, Bob Saget, many were left wondering you could still have internal bleeding. This can happen what happened to the beloved star who anywhere in the body, and cancer warriors should be appeared healthy the night before his extra aware of any new symptoms in the injured area. sudden passing. When information came out that Saget “Bleeding in the chest can cause shortness of breath, had died from blunt head trauma—possibly from a chest pain, dizziness or syncope,” Chen adds. “Bleeding fall—experts investigated whether Saget was taking any in the abdominal cavity can cause severe abdominal pain, blood-thinning medications. While there is no current extreme weakness or syncope from low blood pressure. indication that Saget was on blood thinners, his death A blood pressure machine at home is recommended to warrants a closer look at the side effects that can come immediately assess vital signs, including blood pressure from certain medications. and pulse.” While designed to eradicate cancer in the body, Additionally, what some patients may not realize is certain cancer treatments like chemotherapy also come that some over-the-counter medications or natural supwith their own side effects that every cancer warrior plements can interact with blood-thinning medications should know about. Dr. Sukriti Bhardwaj, who practices and possibly increase the risk of bleeding. Bhardwaj notes at the holistic cancer care program at Timeless Health that supplements with ginger or turmeric and medications Clinic in Toronto, provides insight. like Advil need to be discussed with a patient’s health care “We know that chemotherapy drugs are going to team to determine any possible interaction with treatment target cells that are actively growing and actively dividplans. ing because that’s how cancer cells behave; they’re very Chen also notes that many of the side effects from fast-growing cells. But unfortuchemotherapy or other medications nately, we have cells in the body can be easily treated, as long as the like our blood cells that are also patient doesn’t wait too long to go to actively growing and dividing. It’s the hospital. Listen to your body the targeting of actively growing “Side effects of chemotherapy and see a doctor. The cells that results in these common can be easily managed with mediside effects,” explains Bhardwaj. cations and outpatient supportive less time you wait, Side effects from chemotherapy services including IV hydration, IV the better chance can include low blood cell count; antiemetics for nausea and IV antifatigue; dizziness; anxiety and biotics,” asserts Chen. you have in avoiding depression; and constipation and Above all, if anything feels potentially life-altering diarrhea. While most of these side weird or off, don’t wait. Listen to effects are common, cancer waryour body and see a doctor. The less injuries or illnesses. riors should know when an adverse time you wait, the better chance side effect or reaction from medicayou have in avoiding potentially tions requires a trip to the doctor. life-altering injuries or illnesses. Dr. Laurie Chen, who practices “The worst that can happen [is medical oncology and hematology at Arizona Oncology, that patients] get checked out and everything is normal,” encourages patients to monitor symptoms and visit the Bhardwaj says. “At least we have the peace of mind that hospital if something doesn’t feel right. they are OK, and if it’s not normal, then they can get “If patients experience acute shortness of breath, prompt treatment.” chest pain, acute abdominal pain, refractory nausea, vomiting, any major bleeding [or] high fever with a temperature over 102 degrees or chills, we’ll recommend hospital emergency department evaluation,” Chen says. According to Bhardwaj, the most common side effect for cancer warriors undergoing chemotherapy treatment is a low blood cell count. However, though it’s the most common, it can also be the most serious side effect. “When [a low blood cell count] happens, the dose of the chemotherapy has to be adjusted right away, so the oncologist will either lower the dose or delay the next dose. They may even have to stop the chemotherapy temporarily to give the patient time to recover their blood cell count,” Bhardwaj says. Both Bhardwaj and Chen advocate for all patients to see a doctor if something seems off, but especially if they injure themselves. Most of the time, a bump on the head or somewhere else on the body will be minor. But there may be other signs that the injury is something more serious. If you injure yourself and/or experience any of the symptoms detailed If you’re on medications like blood thinners and hit above, please see a doctor immediately. For more information on cancer your head and have a sudden headache or begin to feel side effects, visit cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/side-effects. Cancer Wellness

BREAKING THINGS OFF

Sometimes your oncologist just isn’t the right fit—and it’s OK to find someone else who is. BY SARAH DIMURO

he first time I met my medical oncologist, it was a few weeks after my double mastectomy. I was sitting on the exam table, sweating, the white paper underneath my bottom crackling with every movement. The moment she entered the room, her warm smile eased my concerns and we chatted like old friends. She took her time to explain everything. There was no denying that I was terrified but at the end of the appointment, she handed me her card and encouraged me to reach out. And when I told her I planned to get a second opinion, she completely understood. “You do what you need to in order to feel confident in your treatment decisions,” she told me. “Ultimately, Sarah, it’s your body. I am always here for you in any way I can be.” Her and her team’s support is the reason I followed her when she switched hospitals. As long as we were in this together, the “big C” could be conquered—or at least managed.

Not every cancer warrior has a positive experience and, much like any other bad relationship, breaking up with an oncologist proves inevitable.

Unfortunately, not every cancer warrior has a positive experience and, much like any other bad relationship, breaking up with an oncologist proves inevitable. John S., a colorectal cancer warrior, describes his first oncologist as cold. During the initial consultation, the oncologist called John’s radiation specialist and said, “I’m here with John, the anal cancer guy.” John and his wife were floored by the doctor’s lack of professionalism. “It was surreal to be talked about in this way almost as if I was not another human being in the room with her,” John says. He knew that this person was not someone he wanted on his medical team. He’s thrilled he trusted his instinct and switched oncologists. Shruti V., a young breast cancer warrior, never felt any connection with her oncologist. From the beginning, he was apathetic. In fact, she never even met him in person. Halfway through chemotherapy, she began the process of switching doctors. “When you get a diagnosis like cancer, you don’t feel like you have the time to sit there and research the person coming up with your treatment plan,” Shruti says. For some patients, including Diane S., you assume that the hospital oncologist assigned to you is someone you can trust. Such a doctor came into Diane’s hospital room and told her that she had cancer but to “go home and pretend that she didn’t just hear those words.” He instructed her to call his office to set up a scan. But when she called, his office had no idea what she was talking about—they didn’t handle PET scans. For someone dealing with lung cancer, this was unsettling. With the help of her sister, Diane found a new oncologist. She has been with them for eight years. “I truly thank [my oncologist] for saving my life. I believe that if I had not sought out treatment from a second opinion, I would not be here today,” Diane says. Oncologists deal exclusively with cancer, and cancer is one of the scariest words any patient can hear, so why aren’t all oncologists approaching patients with more compassion? As Shruti V. says, “I am still a person and [cancer] was devastating news to our family.” Oncologist Dr. Victoria Lavin knows firsthand how her patients feel. In 2017, she was diagnosed with breast cancer. As she discusses in an article for The Guardian, going through cancer affected her practice as an oncologist. “It has been an education in patience, humility and gratitude,” she writes. She questioned the perky platitudes she had previously offered her patients. Lavin reminds oncologists that patients need to be treated as people. Your body changes during treatment, and it leaves behind a trail of carnage. “Hair loss is something we often gloss over in busy clinics. I have been guilty of simply handing over a wig leaflet as the patient walks out the door. It matters. It changes a person’s whole identity,” Lavin reveals. How you treat people is as important as any medicinal treatment. Because when you are a patient who has been diagnosed with cancer, eye contact, empathy and kindness from your oncologist are just as critical to patient care. Sarah DiMuro is a writer based in Toronto, Canada. You can follow her on Instagram at @sarahdimurowrites.

Cancer Wellness

All in Your Head Neurofeedback offers the potential for a pain-free treatment plan. BY TAYLOR NOVAK

Cancer Wellness

ausea, fatigue, pain, depression—these months, one of his buddies became focused, sharp and common side effects of cancer treatment are fast—mentally and physically. It turned out that he was pesky at best and debilitating at worst. But undergoing regular neurofeedback sessions. what if you were able to sit in a room for 30 This impressed Gorman so much that he decided to minutes once a week and have all of that pain see what neurofeedback was all about for himself. He sat subside through a noninvasive, drug-free way? for a couple of sessions and witnessed his response times That’s what neurofeedback therapy attempts to do. improve, walking away pretty happy with the results. A Neurofeedback, also known as neurotherapy or EEG few months later, he sought out neurofeedback again. biofeedback, is a therapeutic approach that “provides “I was looking at the workload for my other business immediate feedback from a computer-based program” for the upcoming week, and I didn’t know how I was going assessing a client’s brainwave activity, according to to get through it,” says Gorman. “I stumbled through that Psychology Today. Utilizing sound or visual signals, brain week, and then decided, ‘OK, let’s try a session.’ I left that signals are reorganized and retrained in order to regulate session, and everything was perfectly clear. A few months brain function. later, I found myself in the same situation and had the It may sound like science fiction, but neurofeedback same result.” has been around since the 1970s when it was first used to For Gorman, it was imperative that he share this treat symptoms of ADHD like hyperactivity and inatteneye-opening experience with others. After undergoing tion. While research on the practice related to cancer is training and becoming certified to offer sessions, he limited, the studies that do exist have shown promising founded Chicago Brain Tech to help all kinds of clients— potential for warriors. including cancer warriors. A 2019 study in the journal Integrative Cancer “For people who have [recently undergone chemo], Therapies concluded that “there is initial evidence that sessions are really quite simple,” he says. “[Neurofeedback] [neurofeedback] is a complemenacts like a tuning fork and allows tary, drug-free and noninvasive the brain to think, “Oh, this is therapy that has the potential to where my balance is.” It’s a subtle ameliorate symptoms [in cancer neurotransmission, and the trick “Chemo is effecpatients] such as pain, fatigue, of the technology is sensing sometive, but it can go depression and sleep.” Within thing so delicate.” one month, all participants in the “We usually monitor anywhere overboard, and this group who received neurofeedback between six and 23 sites on the resolves many of the self-reported reduced pain. brain, take a look at them and see The attractiveness of neurohow they read out on the screen, side effects for people. feedback is hard to ignore. It’s nonthen focus on those hit hardest,” invasive and serves as an appealing Gorman continues. “Chemo is You can go back to complementary approach to treateffective, but it can go overboard, work the next day.” ment among mile-long prescripand this resolves many of the side tion lists and lengthy hospital stays. effects for people. You can go back “[neurofeedback] allows the brain to to work the next day.” learn self-regulation skills and has influence on self-effi Neurofeedback is especially helpful in addressing cacy,” the study’s authors write. It is an especially alluring chronic chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropaprocedure for those who are body-oriented, and treatment thy (CIPN), a 2016 study from The University of Texas success is quickly visible. MD Anderson Cancer Center found. A common side The procedure is also relatively easy to learn and effect of chemotherapy, CIPN consists of symptoms like portable biofeedback devices are growing in availabilpain, burning, tingling and loss of feeling. In the study, ity, leading to more expansive accessibility for warriors 73 percent of participants who received neurofeedback who may be interested in trying it out for symptom reported improvement in their pain and quality of life. management. This type of life-changing result from neurofeedback Chicagoland-based Allen “Lucky” Gorman normally is the driving force behind Gorman’s practice. spends his week directing his restoration and remodeling “It helps and supports others,” he says. “It’s far more business, but a few years ago he took on a different type interesting, fascinating and engaging than the business of passionate project—offering LENS neurofeedback sesI operated, so I put in the years of training required. It’s sions through Chicago Brain Tech. satisfying watching folks do better. Why do something LENS builds upon the traditional aspects of neuroelse?” feedback in order to deliver what is deemed as more innovative, cutting-edge procedures. Rather than using images and sounds to recalibrate brain function, LENS opts for electromagnetic waves through scalp sensors attached to the client. It is much more passive for the client compared to traditional neurofeedback; you simply sit back and relax. Gorman first became interested in neurofeedback through his weekly workout group. Over a matter of For more information on Gorman’s services, visit chicagobraintech.com. Cancer Wellness

How I found my own path to wellness after cancer and learned to stop judging myself at the gym. BY SHANA BULL

y oncologist said I’d be back to the gym six weeks after my final day of radiation. But my body had something else in mind. Even after the last chemotherapy infusion is given and the radiation bell is rung, any warrior knows the experience is far from over. In my case, it took six months after my last day of treatment for anal cancer to step foot inside a gym. It was a long road of small steps: limping to the kitchen for the first time, walking to the mailbox, strolling slowly around the block and then working my way up a hill. Anal cancer treatments consisted of oral chemotherapy for 30 days with two transfusions and another 30 days of radiation to my pelvis. This helped rid me of my eggshaped tumor—cancer-free for a year now—but it left me with side effects that still persist. MUSCLE UP Long-term side effects from anal cancer depend on your diagnosis, treatment type and overall health. Having a team of doctors and physical therapists to consult for personalized advice post-treatments is key to creating a routine that fits your lifestyle and specific needs. Both my physical therapist and acupuncturist said to help my mobility and muscle aches, I needed to work out my core and hip muscles, implement breathing exercises and do daily stretching. Pre-cancer and pre-pandemic, my favorite way to work out was through group classes at my local gym. Weekly yoga and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) left me sweaty and feeling like I could take on the world. Cancer treatments took a toll on my body both physically and emotionally. But I knew my new post-cancer life meant that I had to refocus on wellness—specifically getting back to the gym when I felt safe. FIRST STEPS I remember the first time I worked out in a fitness class post-cancer. It was a scary but exhilarating experience. Even with the newfound confidence from my small steps, exercise classes were on a whole other level. Everyone was fit and strong, and I felt like an outsider. I wasn’t even 40 while everyone else in the class was over 60. Those women were in amazing shape. I was in awe and a little jealous. I could barely make it through the warmup. The fitness instructor could tell I was struggling and, without calling me out, kept encouraging me and making eye contact while telling the class we were doing great. At one point, we were instructed to do leg raises. I couldn’t do it. I was in the back of the class, and I started to tear up. I knew I had been through hell and back with cancer treatments; I knew it would be a long road to feeling better. But in that moment, against logic and reason, it felt like my inability to 28

Cancer Wellness

EXERCISE POST-CANCER Now when I attend classes, I make sure I’m at the back of the class and close to the door, just in case I have to make a beeline to the bathroom. I listen to my body and don’t push myself, even if everyone around me is. I recognize when I need to rest instead, or when my digestive system has other plans. I’m also careful about how much exercise I get. Too much and my body starts to rebel; too little and I get stiff and sore. Finding that balance is hard, but it’s something that I have to do if I want to stay healthy. THE ROAD TO A NEW YOU My road to recovery is not over. Some days, it feels like I’m not making any progress at all; every small accomplishment feels like a huge victory. But slowly and surely, I am regaining my strength and confidence. And now, almost a year post-treatment, I am happy to say that cancer treatments didn’t stop me from living a healthy and active lifestyle. This journey isn’t just about physical strength—it’s also about mental resilience. After everything my body went through, it was hard to let go of pride and accept my new reality. There were days when I struggled to see myself as anything other than slow, weak and broken. But with time and quite a bit of self-reflection, there came acceptance—not just of my new body, but of the fact that this has made me stronger than before. No matter where you are in your cancer journey, taking small steps on the road back to recovery will help you regain your sense of normalcy, even if “normal” looks different from before. Whatever movement you can create in your life is monumental for your physical health and your mental well-being. Shana Bull is an East Bay children’s book author, freelance writer and marketing educator. She can be found on Instagram and Twitter at @sharayray, and at shanabull.com or randallthebluespider.com.

Photos provided by Loren Hanson Photography

let go of ego

raise my leg a few inches off of the ground was a personal failure. I made it through that first class, happy for not pushing myself out of my comfort zone. Everyone has to start somewhere. I knew I needed to just put my ego aside and focus on getting healthy—on my own terms.

Transcribing Transformation Putting pen to paper can unlock a multitude of mindful benefits.

BY SAMANTHA DEVICTOR

hat does it mean to be a man of your word? The countless benefits include stress reduction, better Historically, men have been sleep, a stronger immune system, increased confidence, honored and respected in the realm of peace of mind and more. Ready to put pen to paper? writing. Authors, poets and prophets First, find a comfortable, quiet spot and relax. were praised for penning their thoughts Sometimes you’ll know exactly what on paper. We’ve studied their words you want to write. Other times, you may in school, brought their works to life feel quite stumped. Trust that whatever on stage and adapted their stories for you write has a purpose for you. Journaling is screen. So why is it that the practice of I view journaling as a conversation writing in a journal is often miscategowith myself. I have paralyzing perfecintimidating. rized as a feminine activity? tionism; I tend to struggle with folYour words may It is a human activity, a transformalow-through. In these instances, I’ll tive tool free to all. Whether you’re expelisten to the voice of my younger self, feel awkward, riencing a peak or a valley, it’s worth the then respond as the parental guide I sloppy and effort to understand the ways that jourwish I’d had. I create an open dialogue naling can enhance your existence. with myself which generally leads me downright While stigmas around therapy somewhere I need to go. I am gentle yet cringeworthy. linger—especially for men—conversafirm, encouraging yet questioning. By tions around mental health are growing. the end of my entry, I feel a weight lifted Stick with it. One common denominator in humanand clarity follows. ity is that our minds can either clear or Like anything new, journaling cloud the best of us in any given moment. is intimidating. Your words may feel It is our responsibility and privilege to explore our own awkward, sloppy and downright cringeworthy. Stick with it. thoughts in order to navigate our own lives. Through There is no wrong way to do it—the healing is in the habit. practice and consistency, journaling unlocks practical If you’re honest with yourself on paper, whatever healing or benefits as well as certain gifts beyond comprehension. guidance you need will be revealed and you will grow.

HERE ARE SOME BEGINNER JOURNALING METHODS. FIND WHAT WORKS FOR YOU AND LET IT FLOW. GRATITUDE Write down things you’re grateful for, allowing your mind to focus on life’s positive aspects. Reflecting on this list defines your priorities, resulting in clearer decision-making. *If you’re in the throes of depression, this may not come easily. Keep it simple. I’ve been grateful for my hands to hold a pen or my teeth to chew food to nourish me. STREAM OF CONSCIOUSNESS Write down anything and everything that comes to mind. Observing these thoughts without judgment aids in your ability to love yourself wholly. SPORT JOURNALING Think of this as reviewing game film in athletics. Life is the game; your memory is the film. Write down your recollection of the day or specific event, then review how you handled yourself. Recognize patterns in your behavior and adjust for desired goals. It’s also important to credit moments of pride! 30

Cancer Wellness

ART When words are absent, express yourself in pictures. Draw, doodle or create a mood board of whatever you’re feeling. Let the colors, pictures and textures reflect your inner world. LINE A DAY Simply write one line or sentence each day. It can be your own thoughts, a mantra, a song lyric or a proverb. What emotions do your chosen words evoke and why? In time, a whole page of thought may appear based on your reflections. Remember this: “Whatever speaks to you, let it speak through you.” That is what journaling is about, the unique voice within us deserving acknowledgment so that it may guide us or create space for thoughts that serve us. Journaling is a powerful tool that unlocks understanding of ourselves. When we gain self-awareness, we are able to more efficiently categorize the noise in our minds, freeing us to lead abundant, purposeful lives.

What C omes Next

Take charge of your health with cW’s resident cancer coach guiding you through the power of healthy foods and supplements. BY MIRELA KOPIER

Photo by Sarah Bell

hen I thought about the column topic enough research to support that green tea can help for this men’s health issue, I rememprevent or treat cancer, China and Japan have both used bered previously preaching about medicinal green tea for thousands of years. getting men out of the house and to the In terms of supplements, saw palmetto extract has doctor. While I still very much hope that men are taking long been advertised for men to aid in increasing libido care of themselves so they can stick around longer, this but it actually has been used to treat a wide range of time I would like to share some of the holistic wonders medical conditions, including enlarged prostates. out there—specifically for men. In addition to healthy When it comes to multivitamins, a Physicians’ food options, there are a number of male-specific supHealth Study found that men who took a daily multiviplements available that, if taken regularly, can help tamin showed a significant reduction of total cancer. prevent illness and promote a While I am not always a better quality of life. big proponent of multivitamins, According to the National I am elated to hear these results. Library of Medicine, one in five Personally, I prefer taking suppleThere are a number men will be diagnosed with ments individually and only for of male-specific prostate cancer. About 250,000 a specific period of time before I men are diagnosed every year in change it up. But if you don’t want supplements the U.S., and about 35,000 die to deal with figuring out which available that can from it. I read these statistics supplements to take and when, and I just can’t believe they are find a good daily multivitamin. help prevent illness true—but they are. When I say “good,” I’m and promote a Susan Smith Jones, a stressing that generic pharmacy renowned holistic nutritionbrands aren’t always best. These better quality of life. ist, talks about five super foods brands tend to contain sand that can prevent prostate cancer: or other fillers and may not hit sprouts, greens, tomatoes, nuts, high daily doses. They also tend seeds and green tea. All of these ingredients are super to contain a heavy gelatin coating that may not break easy to incorporate into your daily menu. down in the body. When thinking about “greens,” you can reach for Avoid chain stores and opt for a local vitamin almost any of them. Kale, mustard greens, broccoli, establishment instead. Ask for a recommendation romaine lettuce and brussels sprouts are all worthy options. from the staff. I owned a health food store for a few Additionally, nuts and seeds years with my mom, and we immersed ourselves in can be a great topping on providing the best information for our clients. most dishes, but remem And, as always, be sure to check with your medical ber that the whole nut team before establishing your new supplement routine. or seed is better than In closing, I leave you with a quote from Scottish the buttered version. essayist, historian and philosopher Thomas Carlyle: “Ill Even easier, green health of body or of mind is defeat. Health alone is victory. tea is the most super Let all men, if they can manage it, contrive to be healthy!” of superfoods! While some say there is not Stay well and enlightened until next time!

Cancer Wellness

Man Up: Make That Appointment It’s time to stop avoiding the doctor. BY ASHLEY DINGEL

Cancer Wellness

o the men you love visit the doctor as often as they more honest with female doctors. The studies suggested should? Do you? If the answer is “no,” you’re not that “masculinity may affect men’s health by encouraging alone—but the reasons behind this are complex. choice of a male doctor with whom doctor-patient commu One insidious factor that complicates the nication may be impaired.” relationship between men and medical care is deeply per While this problem remains largely under-researched, sonal and difficult to measure, yet is still apparent enough it’s steadily gaining attention from medical professionals. to be cause for concern: the rules of masculinity, and their As Dr. Carissa F. Etienne, director of the Pan American impact on men’s attitude toward medical care. Health Organization and regional director for the Americas Masculinity is a culturally constructed set of “ideal” of the World Health Organization, has stated, “Men’s risk-takbeliefs and behaviors associated with being a man. It rewards ing behaviors and their underutilization of health services stoicism and extreme self-reliance. This messaging begins are strongly linked to gender differences and predominant young, coming from boys’ families at home, their friends at norms of masculinity—what it means to be a ‘man.’” school and the media they consume. They’re implicitly and She expresses the need for action and a holistic soluexplicitly discouraged from expressing themselves. They’re tion: “Promoting a more diverse understanding of what it socialized to believe that seeking help indicates weakness. is to be a man and addressing how these beliefs influence They’re told to “man up” and “grow a pair.” health can also address the often neg But what happens when manning ative relationship between masculinity up leads to catching something too late? and other structural drivers of health.” What would our To address this phenomenon, the What would our society look like if Cleveland Clinic has run its annual we redefined “being a man” to include society look like “MENtion It” campaign since 2015. The honesty, vulnerability and a vested interif we redefined initiative encourages honest conversaest in crucial self-care? What if we went tions about the barriers that stop men even further, eliminating all hurdles to “being a man” to from seeking medical care. access until seeing a doctor was as routine In its 2019 national survey of 1,174 as brewing your morning cup of coffee? include honesty, adult men, the Cleveland Clinic found Because masculinity is defined on a vulnerability and a worrying results: Around 50 percent broad scale, we have the opportunity to of respondents didn’t consider annual influence it on a broad scale. Even if you’re vested interest in checkups to be a routine part of self-care, not a man, you can still contribute to the crucial self-care? and two-thirds of men said they avoid conversation. In fact, a large number of doctor visits for as long as possible—even participants in both the 2019 “MENtion if they’re symptomatic. A startling 41 It” survey and the 2021 Aflac survey said percent were told as children that men that concern and persistent reminders don’t complain about health issues. from trusted women persuades them to make an appointment. Although cancer is the second leading cause of death in men, over half of them don’t know how to self-screen SOMETIMES PESTERING SAVES LIVES. UCLA for testicular cancer, according to a ValuePenguin survey. HEALTH OFFERS TIPS FOR NAVIGATING THIS TOPIC. Furthermore, in a 2021 survey conducted by Aflac, six percent of 1,000 men surveyed expressed that going to the • START WITH FACTS: Statistically, men are more prone to doctor makes them feel less masculine. certain conditions, like complications from high blood pressure, Those who have faced a cancer diagnosis understand sudden heart attacks and diabetes the dangers of these trends. While six percent may seem small, put it into human • COST REMINDERS: Preventative care is far less expensive than perspective. That’s 60 men with 60 families—countless diagnostic care; surgeries and extended hospital stays are pricey people who love and depend on them. These are sixty families who might endure insurmountable grief if our • MAKE IT A DATE: If the realities aren’t convincing enough, current definition of masculinity does not evolve to view try booking appointments on the same day and planning someseeking preventative care as a sign of strength. thing fun to do together afterward To be fair, regular doctor visits aren’t as easy as they could be. Medical care is expensive, even with insurance. There’s reason to have hope. Since the COVID-19 panOur lives are increasingly busy, scheduling is difficult and demic, a growing number of men have utilized digital health the pandemic has impacted our relationship with leaving services—and they’re being more honest with their providers. the house. Even more, certain marginalized groups may Cleveland Clinic’s 2021 “MENtion It” survey found that have experienced some form of discrimination from provid66 percent of all men have used digital health services in the ers previously, adding an additional layer of apprehension. previous year. This pandemic necessity has become a popular During a 2016 study, researchers at Rutgers University alternative for men who feel uncomfortable with face-to-face discovered another troubling pattern. They found that visits. If digital health services create a better arrangement participants who scored higher on the masculinity scale for men and improve patient-provider communication, that’s also held negative beliefs about female competence and one aspect of the “new normal” worth embracing. were more likely to choose male doctors. Through raising awareness, having tough conversations Interestingly, these participants consistently reported and leading with loving determination, we’ll uproot the current fewer symptoms to their preferred male doctors and were version of masculinity and plant something better in its place. Cancer Wellness

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Cancer Wellness

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Changing the Game

Movember is raising funds and awareness for mental health, prostate cancer and testicular cancer in men through the growth of a mustache.

eople grow mustaches for a variety of reasons. They might think they look better with facial hair than without; they might do it to attract attention; or they might do it because their significant others like it. For almost 20 years, the Movember Foundation has been giving men another reason to grow a mustache: making a change in men’s health. Movember is a global men’s health organization funding projects all over the world to help address and combat mental health, prostate cancer and testicular cancer. It also partners with many other organizations that specialize in various aspects of men’s health. “What we’ve realized was the simple idea behind getting men to grow a mustache generated conversation,” explains Mark Hedstrom, U.S. executive director at Movember. “With that, as we started to invest in cancer, we were focusing on the physical manifestations of the disease. What we realized is that there was an overlap on what else was happening with a man with respect to cancer. It’s not just physical issues, it’s also directly tied to mental health and overall wellness.” 36

Cancer Wellness

Every November, mustaches are grown as a call to action for Movember’s cause. Participants create an account through Movember’s website to document their mustache progress and receive support and donations. All donations go toward funding health projects in suicide prevention, prostate cancer and testicular cancer. For Hedstrom, his work with Movember reaches a personal level. Before he joined the organization, Hedstrom lost a longtime friend to pancreatic cancer. He remembers the shock he and his other friends felt as his friend went through cancer treatment, and the sense of loss when his friend ultimately passed. Hedstrom wanted to do something to help other men through their struggles, both cancer- and mental health-related. Movember’s goal is that by 2030, the number of men dying prematurely will be reduced by 25 percent. The organization’s hope is for more research and awareness to be directed toward cancer in men, and that men will have the facilities they need to take control of their mental health. “What I’ve come to understand is that the language of the health system in most markets doesn’t really speak to

Photos provided by Movember

BY FRANCESCA HALIKIAS

men in the way they want to be spoken to,” says Hedstrom. Why is that? Biologically, yes, there’s some differentials, “So, when you get to mental health, they don’t have perbut it’s not a biological issue. So, what’s happening to mission to even talk about [it]. They won’t even engage a men that they die five years younger than women in the therapist, because that whole process is not set up for men markets we operate in?” asks Hedstrom. to engage in the way that they would want to engage.” This is what Movember wants to solve, and with the Hedstrom, along with many other men, says he grew unified research, impact and work with other foundations up in such a way where if you had a around the world, the foundation is problem, you would “put duct tape well on its way to providing hope or rub dirt on it. You don’t comthat these grim statistics will be plain about it; you just move forward. eradicated. “The language of What is the language [men] should “Our ability to bring together the health system in be using to talk about these issues, numbers and researchers in instior how do you engage a friend you tutions across the world is one of most markets doesn’t know is struggling with their treatour biggest strengths because we really speak to men ment from cancer or mental health can tackle some of the bigger chalissues? How do you start that converlenges in cancer in general by doing in the way they want sation that gives permission for them that collective work across multiple to be spoken to.” to talk?” markets and researchers,” remarks When humans deal with someHedstrom. thing like cancer—or even just life’s If you don’t want to grow a musdaily challenges—they need to be tache, Movember has plenty of other able to have support. Movember wants to give men the ways to help contribute to its mission. You can run or walk ability to have that support and share their problems, as 60 miles during the month of November to raise awareness well as put preventative measures in place when it comes for the number of men lost to suicide; come up with your to cancer and mental health. own physical challenge; or even host a fun get-together with “When you look at the statistics going back to the friends and raise donations. Whatever you choose to do, big gender-based challenge that we see, men die on average or small, can help make Movember’s 2030 goal a reality. five years younger than women in most of the markets we operate in. We operate in 20 countries around the world. For more information, visit us.movember.com.

Cancer Wellness

10 Years of Twist Out

Twist Out Cancer is celebrating a decade of supporting the cancer community, and founder Jenna Benn Shersher says the organization’s reach is far from slowing down.

wist Out Cancer, an organization providing “My needs as a survivor are changing all the time,” support and empowerment to individuals touched she says. “I think what’s important and what I didn’t by cancer, is celebrating 10 years in 2022. While realize when I was building [Twist Out Cancer] is that the past decade has seen Twist Out Cancer grow the community that we built and the programs that we to hundreds of thousands of people participathave meet people where they’re at no matter where [that ing both IRL and online, founder Jenna Benn Shersher is is]. Whether they’re across the country; or whether they’re looking forward to Twist Out Cancer blossoming even more. in the throes of treatment; or whether they’ve relapsed, “When I thought of building an organization that was we have opportunities to aid in people’s storytelling and based on my cancer experience, I always said that I would connecting and healing throughout their journey.” do it until it stopped feeling good or meaningful,” remarks What’s on the horizon for Twist Out Cancer? In addition Shersher. “I can honestly say that 10 years later, it’s continuing to Shersher adding more locations for Brushes with Cancer to feel really good and it’s continuing to programs and working with more feel really meaningful.” cancer centers and foundations, she’s When Shersher founded Twist also excited about an installation at the Out Cancer, her initial driving hope WNDR Museum in Chicago this October. “I can honestly say was to empower people to share their Visitors will be able see the art story and connect with others. created from the Brushes with Cancer that 10 years later, “[It’s] amazing to me to see programs for an extended time. Rather it’s continuing to feel how one person’s story—one person than viewing the art for one evening coming forward and sharing what only, you can now buy a ticket and really good and it’s they’ve experienced—can spark so witness the powerful art displayed continuing to feel many others to do the same: to make there for as long as the installation runs. themselves vulnerable, to open up As for Shersher’s final reflecreally meaningful.” and to be real about what their expetion on 10 years of Twist Out Cancer? riences are like,” says Shersher. The entire experience has taught her Of course, the organization’s how valuable life is. growth did come with a few challenges—such as the “I am constantly looking at life and death all the time COVID-19 pandemic. While the virus forced many orgaand how fine that line is between the two,” Shersher says. nizations and companies to transition virtually, this was a “My work with Twist has allowed me to feel incredibly challenge that Shersher already had experience with. grateful that I am here and that I am able to provide a “When I started Twist, I was stuck inside. I was in a hospimeaningful space for other people.” tal room and unable to connect with the world around me, so I understood the power of social media and the power of video and For more information, visit twistoutcancer.org. images and building community online,” Shersher explains. Shersher, like many cancer patients, was isolated and alone while going through cancer treatment for grey zone lymphoma. Even several years post-treatment, Shersher recalls the fear of large gatherings that cancer warriors and thrivers may have. She knew that she had to provide a space for those cancer warriors who wanted to attend Twist Out Cancer’s events but might not be able to leave their homes or hospital rooms. “We started really [thinking] about it and went through a whole deep dive. What is at the heart of the Brushes with Cancer programs? How do we convey that in a virtual space? What are the things that we can do? I feel like, as a result of that, we’ve been able to be incredibly innovative with how we bring this program to people who are not able to come out and attend an in-person event,” says Shersher. Ten years have also gifted Shersher with a new perspective on her cancer journey compared to when she started Twist Out Cancer. Whether just starting cancer treatment or reflecting on it after years of being cancer-free, Shersher understands firsthand how the journey feels at different stages of life. 38

Cancer Wellness

Photos provided by Corinne Van Vliet with V.V. Photography

BY FRANCESCA HALIKIAS

Recently Diagnosed? Know Your Rights

Triage Cancer provides free resources, webinars and conferences that arm you with the practical and legal information you deserve to know. BY TAYLOR NOVAK

“T

his wasn’t a path we sought out. This was a path that sort of found us.” So says Joanna Fawzy Morales, Esq., CEO and co-founder of Triage Cancer. Ten years ago, she and her sister, Monica Fawzy Bryant, Esq., began to discover harmful gaps in cancer patient advocacy. As a result, the two cancer rights attorneys formed the national nonprofit Triage Cancer to strengthen the voices of those diagnosed with cancer. “While I was in law school, I worked at a cancer center,” says Morales. “I was fitting patients for mastectomy bras and prostheses after surgery, then billing insurance companies. Claims would often be denied, and I would call and plead the case. I’d say, ‘Well, what about the Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act?’ And then it’d get covered. If you don’t know your rights, many of these systems are set up to walk all over you. It felt inherently unjust.” A cancer diagnosis is difficult enough without trying to navigate unfamiliar systems. That’s why Triage Cancer aims to arm cancer survivors and their loved ones with the practical and legal information they need so healing is not only accessible, but equitable. “There’s a lot of opportunity to make sure that people have information about their rights and their options so they can find their best path forward,” explains Morales. In 2021 alone, Triage Cancer reached over 1 million people through distributed materials, educational events, media resources and navigation programs. The nonprofit serves as a one-stop shop for factual and objective education on crucial aspects of the cancer journey. Topics covered range from disability insurance options and medical marijuana guides to estate planning and housing accommodations during treatment. One of Triage Cancer’s biggest triumphs is its no-cost single day conferences. These free gatherings, which happen both virtually and face to face, offer an opportunity for the cancer community to come together and learn firsthand about legal and financial tools that can help them thrive. On Sat., May 21, Triage Cancer held virtual educational sessions that anyone across the country could access. Speakers included Morales and Bryant, with gift bags, games and prizes provided to attendees.

TOPICS DISCUSSED INCLUDED: • WHAT ARE YOUR OPTIONS FOR HEALTH INSURANCE AND HOW DO YOU PICK THE PLAN THAT’S BEST FOR YOU WITH THE LOWEST OUT-OFPOCKET COSTS? • HOW DO YOU MANAGE MEDICAL BILLS? • HOW DO YOU MAKE SURE THAT YOU HAVE THE RIGHT DOCUMENTS IN PLACE IF SOMETHING WERE TO HAPPEN TO YOU? • WHAT IS FINANCIAL TOXICITY, AND HOW CAN YOU SEEK ASSISTANCE? “A lot of what we talk about at Triage Cancer, we discuss through the lens of a cancer diagnosis,” says Morales. “But it’s really just practical information that everybody should understand, and it certainly becomes more important if someone does have a serious medical condition.” If you missed the virtual May conference, there’s still time to register for Triage Cancer’s conference in Chicago on Oct. 1, 2022. As Triage Cancer’s only in-person conference for the year, the event presents a unique chance to meet others in the cancer community while simultaneously gaining confidence to practice self-advocacy. “With these conferences, we hope that cancer survivors are empowered to ask questions. Navigating the health care system can feel overwhelming,” says Morales. “We want to provide some information people don’t think to ask about but is so helpful to them and managing daily life after the diagnosis of a serious medical condition.” For more information on Triage Cancer, visit triagecancer.org. Cancer Wellness

Crypto Meets Cancer Care An unlikely pathway for potentially evolving cancer care has come to light: the blockchain. BY SARA QUIRICONI

lockchain and cancer care—maybe not the avocado and toast perfect pair you initially imagine. However, the use of blockchain and Web3 technology can greatly impact and advance cancer research, funding and patient care. Cancer is one of the biggest medical occurrences, with an estimated 1.7 million new global cases in 2018 according to the National Cancer Institute. There are several barriers that have made it difficult to find a “cure” for cancer, from funding to awareness. But what if that could change with blockchain technology? There’s been a lot of talk about cryptocurrency, NFTs, Web 3.0, digital assets and the metaverse over the past few months. The larger umbrella in decentralization is blockchain technology, and under that, NFTs (non-fungible tokens). We’ll be focusing on both of these under a term I call the “conscious crypto movement,” or employing blockchain technology for conscious positive impact. WHAT IS BLOCKCHAIN? Blockchain technology is a decentralized, distributed network that records the source of a digital asset. Blockchain consists of the records called “blocks” that are used to record the transactions. On a very high but perhaps more relatable level, think of blockchain like stored medical records that won’t get changed or lost and are universally accessible. WHAT ARE NFTS? Non-fungible tokens (NFTs) are digital assets transacted and stored on the blockchain. NFTs can range from photos and videos to utility tokens and sound clips. They can even be representative of real world items, such as real estate or artwork. NFTs are pieces of data that are stored within the network which can run on a variety of blockchains, including the most talked about—Ethereum. What makes NFTs “special” or hold value is that they are indestructible, unique and verifiable. HOW CAN BLOCKCHAIN AND NFTS BE USED IN CANCER CARE? Some of the barriers for researching and developing cures for cancer include data challenges; complications with accessing information around newer treatments and their effectiveness; and financial backing. At the moment, the majority of developments implemented under a conscious crypto movement focus on two main themes: blockchain and NFT projects.

Cancer Wellness

Gaining access to data, knowledge, trials and medical information can be almost seamlessly tracked, shared and stored via blockchain technology, empowering cancer thrivers to opt in and have access to their own data and usage. Hypertrust Patient Data Care is a German-based company that tracks medication “needle to needle” and leverages the transparency of a blockchain to improve patient outcomes. U.S.-based company OncoPower has piloted a program that will “allow oncologists access to “de-identified details like comorbidity, specific cancer type, lines of therapy and actual drugs used for treatment.” NFT projects and collections have the power to connect communities and raise funding to empower cancer research, care and tools. Girlfrens is a Solana NFT project that raises money to bring art supplies to cancer patients, fueling the creative energy and potential of NFTs into the artistic healing space for mind and body during treatment. CrushCancer raises funds through their NFT project that donates ChemoBoxes, donations and scholarships for every NFT purchased. WHAT ABOUT THE ENVIRONMENT? One of the biggest conversations and controversies around blockchain technology is the environmental toll that NFTs pose. There are quite a few other options for minting NFTs that require little to no gas fees. More options continue to become available as this is a major disadvantage and concern with increasing the usage of blockchain. The Ethereum Merge (going from proof of work to proof of stake) is set to go live in 2022, putting energy concerns to rest when it comes to environmental impact on expended energy on the current proof or work mining. In addition to Ethereum, there are other more sustainable platforms for minting NFTs, including Polygon, Tezos, Cardana and Aspire. HOW DOES THIS IMPACT THE FUTURE OF CANCER CARE? Still in its infancy, the possibilities for blockchain technology in the medical field are truly endless. There may be a pivotal medical opportunity to embrace the potential of the conscious crypto movement toward cancer care, data, research and funding. As a cancer thriver myself, I’ve never been big on the idea or feeling of a cancer warrior being a number in the chemo crowd; instead, let’s leave the zeros and ones to the blockchain technology and begin empowering thrivers with the tools, data and resources needed to make massive leaps forward.

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ASK THE WA R R I O R S

Over on Instagram (@cancerwellmag), we asked, “What do you wish your doctors understood about the cancer journey?” Read on for answers from the cW community! BY FRANCESCA HALIKIAS 42

Cancer Wellness

onnecting with others who have gone through many health problems that I can’t get out of bed,” Stewart similar things as us fosters community, forges says. “My body has been destroyed by radiation but there bonds and provides emotional outlets. For is no help with recovery.” many cancer warriors and thrivers, their Even prior to her remission from colon cancer, doctors are well-versed in treating the disease but have Stewart points out that doctors might not understand how not experienced cancer firsthand. This can cause a disexhausting it is for cancer warriors to have so many blood connect when it comes to the mental, financial or physical tests and medical exams while also going through the aspects of a cancer patient’s recovery journey. more “normal” day-to-day challenges life can bring. “I need to connect with my doctor,” explains Grace “I spent thousands [on medical tests] and I was getting Luque, diagnosed with thymic cancer at 33. “I also appretired,” explains Stewart. “I had felt off for about five years. ciate a good bedside manner in addition to expertise. But I was prescribed antidepressants. But I got worse, so I if you are an ‘expert’ and I cannot connect with you, I [visited] doctors in another state and a spiritual healer and just may search elsewhere. See me as a person; I am more a therapist. I had [also] gone through a divorce during this [than] just my diagnosis.” time and I had a very demanding career.” Many warriors seek a balance of expertise and empathy Erika Lojko is celebrating seven years as a breast in the doctor-patient relationship. Encouraging room for cancer thriver this summer and believes that mental a patient to talk to their doctor about health should be included in cancer cancer as well as mental health can treatment. “Treatments for the mind, eliminate problems that may arise body and soul should be included for during and after treatment. anyone on the cancer care continuum.” “Treatments for “I have felt completely alone since There are so many aspects of the the mind, body treatment which left so many of my cancer journey that doctors may not systems in near failure,” says Sharon understand. However, with open disand soul should be Bertolli. Bertolli was diagnosed course and the ability for warriors included for anyone with late-stage triple negative breast and thrivers to speak their minds, cancer and visited the oncologist the potential gaps in understanding on the cancer care alone due to the COVID-19 pandemic. between doctors and patients can “I mostly need an endocrinologist but close. continuum.” sometimes I don’t even know which “Life after cancer is like walking doctor I should see or ask. There is no through a forest trying to find your cohesive program for recovery, which way to the sun,” Bertolli adds. “There is long and painful physically, emotionally and spiritually.” are no clear paths, you double back a lot, but you can see Luckily, many patients do have doctors that recogthat the sun is still there. If you keep walking, you might nize the strength in treating all facets of treatment and reach the clearing and breathe deeply and feel the sun on recovery, ensuring that cancer supporters and close family your face again, or you might die trying. You keep trying members are also feeling heard. because your will to live is stronger than cancer’s hold on Kimberly Cooper, who had a mass discovered in her you.” right lower lung last April, says, “I’m lucky to have a fantastic doctor. He understands my sarcasm and fears and listens to my questions.” Thriver Cathy Redfern is recovering from Stage IV B uterine serous cancer and feels similarly about her doctor. “I feel very fortunate to have a doctor who has a close family member who went through cancer treatment and beyond. He is willing to address the question ‘What would you do if it was your sister or mother?’ He has shown great empathy for my husband and his concerns. He treats the person as well as the disease,” Redfern remarks. Still, some cancer warriors feel that there is a disconnect when it comes to the ways in which cancer can impact a patient’s financial situation. Acute lymphoblastic leukemia thriver Diana Mock experienced this. “Things are way more expensive than you realize,” Mock wants to tell doctors. “I had a doctor ask me, ‘What is it, like $13 for a blood test?’ Nope, try more than $330 without insurance. And insurance only covers a specific amount.” Even in recovery, the effects from cancer don’t end when treatment is completed. While Emma Stewart is in remission, her life and If you want to participate in cW conversations and have the body after treatment are not fully recovered yet. “The chance for your answer to be featured in future issues, follow us amount of pain you feel, the constant fatigue—I have so on Instagram at @cancerwellmag. Cancer Wellness

Making Waves Nathan Adrian’s lifetime of competitive swimming prepared him for many challenges, but facing testicular cancer was a plunge that the Olympic swimmer and medalist never thought he’d take. BY FRANCESCA HALIKIAS PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARC OLIVIER LE BLANC

Cancer Wellness

t would be an understatement to declare that Nathan “Mentally and emotionally, that’s a very bad place for Adrian is good at swimming. Adrian, who started me to be in, so swimming brought me that—it filled my taking swim lessons at the age of two, boasts eight cup in that way where I felt satisfied, and it fulfilled some Olympic medals and was the co-captain of the 2016 of my values that are important to me and are important Olympic Swimming Team—no small feats. But little did for my mental health,” he explains. he know that the world of swimming and his goal-ori Adrian attributes many of his characteristics—includented mindset would help him through his diagnosis and ing his approach to life—to swimming. While growing up, treatment of stage II testicular cancer. he was laser-focused on school and swimming. Any ten Adrian was only 19 years old when he competed in the dencies he developed during his early years were a result 2008 Olympics and won a gold medal in the 4 x 100 Meter Free of those two settings. Goal setting, a positive mindset, Relay. He went on to compete in the 2012 and 2016 Olympics forward thinking—these are just a few of the attributes that and has medaled in every event he has swum at both games. Adrian cultivated during his years in and out of the pool. “The entire time I was swimming, it was all about the One of the traits that helped him better deal with his cancer training,” says Adrian. “Training hard to try and get faster, diagnosis was managing the variables he was able to control training hard so I could win medals at the end of the season.” while acknowledging and being OK with the ones he couldn’t. Adrian’s experience within the world of sports mirrors When Adrian read that testicular cancer is a disease his overall mindset in life: A lot of work upfront brings rewards where doctors can’t trace its origins and that there was no to enjoy later on. For Adrian, much of living is the process of clear cause or reason as to why he was diagnosed with it, he setting a difficult goal and working hard trying to achieve it. was offered a lesson in learning how to sit with the unknown. “Then cancer just throws all of that for a spin,” Adrian Adrian asserts, “To be able to be comfortable with says. “Your entire plan goes out the window when you not knowing is something that is really hard to do, and hear that word or when the realization sets in. ‘Oh my it takes a long time to develop that. It’s something you gosh, that’s what this is.’” develop through sports. You don’t know what your oppo Testicular cancer is one of the most common cancers nent is going to do. You don’t know what race day is going among American males between the to look like; you don’t know if someages of 15 and 35. While the cause is thing crazy is going to happen outside still not clear to doctors, the disease is of your control that can maybe throw highly treatable especially when caught you off if you let it.” “Cancer is like early. The most common symptoms A few months before his diagnosis, a crazy cycle of include a lump in either testicle; aches Adrian married his long-time girlin the abdomen or groin; pain or disfriend, Hallie Ivester, who supported emotions that you comfort in the testicle or scrotum; and him in every step of his cancer journey. go through, and back pain. Men should undergo screenAlong with his now-wife, his family ing regularly and visit a doctor if any and friends were there for him during they cycle pretty symptoms last longer than two weeks. treatment as well. rapidly.” Adrian was prompted to see his As many cancer warriors know, doctor when he experienced swelling support—texts, cards, phone calls— and hardness in one of his testicles may ebb and flow from the beginning that would not go away. Luckily, doctors caught Adrian’s to the end of cancer treatment, but Adrian remains thanktesticular cancer early enough that the Olympic swimmer ful for everyone who reached out and made him feel less did not have to go through chemotherapy treatment, but alone in his journey. he did have two surgeries to try and eradicate the disease. “It’s those people who really check in, maybe it’s “I did not have to do chemo, which I am very thankful just once a week—people make it their Monday morning for, but it was the full-blown thing. It wasn’t just like, ‘Oh routine—to say, ‘Hey, how are you doing?’ That stuff really my gosh, phew! We got lucky that time!’ It was like, ‘Oh means a lot. I had several friends check in on me very regno, we did the first surgery hoping that it would be the ularly, and that meant the world. It helps you get through slow-growing one. But it wasn’t. It was fast-growing.’” some of the tough times,” Adrian recalls. Adrian recalls that three or four of his lymph nodes One of Adrian’s friends even brought him a pastry still had cancer in them when he had his second surgery. while he was going through treatment. Though he couldn’t If the affected lymph nodes were any bigger or if more eat it due to his treatment-specific diet, the thoughtfullymph nodes had had cancer in them, an intensive chemoness and kindness in that simple gesture meant a lot to therapy regimen would have been in order. him, especially as he was trying to adjust to new routines After that second surgery, Adrian was put on active when it came to treating his testicular cancer. surveillance and was able to work his way back into the “Cancer is like a crazy cycle of emotions that you go pool. through, and they cycle pretty rapidly,” says Adrian. “Whether “I’m very thankful that I had swimming; it was someit’s anxiety, or anger, or sadness or just ‘How did this happen? thing to really ground me,” expresses Adrian. “Through Why did this happen?’ You can’t boil it down to one emotion.” those stages, my rock was having something to work on, As is common with post-treatment, your body after to still be goal-oriented.” surgery or chemotherapy can feel different. There may be For Adrian, the worst thing is sitting around and some things that your body could have easily done before staying idle. Keeping still is simply not an option to him, treatment that you have to work back up to in the months but cancer challenged that form of fulfillment. after finishing your procedures. Cancer Wellness

Cancer Wellness

Adrian had a lot of restrictions when it came to swimming after his surgery. Even when he was allowed to get back in the pool, he took it day by day, testing and evaluating what his body could tolerate. While the recovery journey was slow-going and careful, Adrian’s cancer will most likely not come back. His two-year mark of active surveillance passed with no evidence of disease. However, Adrian still makes sure to take his health into his own hands and advocate for himself. “For me, that just means that every year when I see the doctor, I ask for some bloodwork to make sure that we look for those tumor markers that initially popped up, just to make sure everything’s OK. If it does have a recurrence, it doesn’t get out of hand before I notice anything,” Adrian explains. With much of his testicular cancer experience behind him, Adrian has been able to get back to his everyday life activities, including raising his young daughter, Parker, with Hallie. “[Having a child] is amazing. It’s always something that we had hoped to do, and obviously [when you have] testicular cancer you’re thinking about this ability to have kids, so it’s kind of a sweet ending to a horrible story,” says Adrian. Life is good, adds Adrian, who is currently working on opportunities outside of his own swimming career. In 2019, Adrian and professional swimmer Will Copeland acquired AC Swim Club in San Rafael, Calif., a swim club that also provides swimming lessons. “I’m not definitely retired, but I’m taking a good break. If I get the itch to go back and start training again, maybe I’ll do so. But for now, it’s developing and growing our swim programs that we have going on,” says Adrian. Being diagnosed with cancer can turn your world upside down, and even when you come out on the other end, there are still moments that you remember and carry with you for the rest of your life. Adrian is all too familiar with this. “Life is fragile,” he says. “As humans, you just really strive to have this intense control over everything that’s going on, but it’s sort of an illusion. And I don’t mean that to try and discourage people in any way, but personally I find that the best coping method for myself is to understand that life is out of my control in so many different ways. I try to do the best with the things that I can control.” Knowing that he wasn’t alone helped Adrian overcome the hardest parts of cancer. Now, he’s encouraging people to share their stories and show up for the people they love when it’s most needed. “Cancer can feel very isolating,” says Adrian. “It’s hard, and people are so wonderful being there for you. It’s not something that other people really understand. The more stories you can tell, the less alone other people will feel.” To keep up with Nathan, follow him on Instagram at @nathangadrian. Cancer Wellness

Breast cancer treatment didn’t slow Christine Whelchel down as her long-awaited dream came true: competing on “Jeopardy!” multiple times.

“I

need to figure out how to get some ice in my veins.” So typed Christine Whelchel, a mom and church organist from Spring Hill, Tenn., in a January 2021 Facebook post. She’d just competed on a trivia podcast, and felt she had not done well. Normally, this would be no big deal. But Whelchel was a devout “Jeopardy!” fan, and she badly wanted to get on the show. We had met at an exceptionally nerdy trivia convention a little over a year before, gotten clobbered by champions of said show and taken the “Jeopardy!” screening test. Facebook and/or the universe delivered—but not in the way anyone expected. Whelchel thought her toughest moments of the year would be COVID-19 bounding through her family before vaccines were created. But a few months later, she found out she had breast cancer. “For five days, I thought I was going to die. ‘My husband’s gonna have to raise these four kids without me,’” she recalls. “I heard the words ‘invasive ductal carcinoma,’ and I fell apart.” 50

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She sobbed on the phone when the oncology scheduler called, but luckily lost her grim wager against herself. The office told her, “This is the kind of cancer you want to have—when you die, it will be from something else.” Whelchel exhaled. “Once I figured out I wasn’t going to die, I was able to continue functioning,” she explains. “I saw that my year was up since I had last taken the ‘Jeopardy!’ test, and in March I got the invitation to take a Zoom test.” Her physicians, Dr. Laura Baskin and Dr. Julie Means, worked quickly. Whelchel coped with the stress by putting full trust in her doctors. Baskin was blunt about the size of Whelchel’s tumor and the deep location. A mastectomy was recommended and scheduled for July. But the cancer got control of the board again; more in-depth analysis on Whelchel’s tissue meant she needed chemotherapy, too. Meanwhile, there was something else on Whelchel’s schedule. “I got the invitation to interview and [mock]play the game,” she says. “Jeopardy!” coordinators wanted to see her in May— the same week of her double mastectomy.

Photo provided by Sainadh Mallula

BY DR. MONYA DE, M.D., M.P.H.

Surgery was on Wednesday. Pre-op was on Monday. “I’d had a lot of cultural conditioning growing up as a Whelchel scheduled her audition, her third go at the show, girl in the South. There’s a lot of pressure being a woman for Tuesday. on TV, and this was my one time on national television; I Prep served as a nice distraction. Whelchel ran wanted to be as pretty as possible,” she shares. through what she wanted to say in the interview, con She instinctively felt it was the right time. “I never truly sulted with Zoom friends about the angle of her chair and felt the wig was me,” she reveals. Whelchel felt eyes were on picked out her clothes. Other than a dramatic retractable her during her flight to Los Angeles, but she didn’t change pen malfunction (Whelchel wanted to mimic the buzzer her mind. Host Ken Jennings pointed out the difference. with the click), it went pretty well, she thought. “I want to normalize what going through cancer recov The chestnut hair went. Whelchel struggled to sleep. ery really looks like,” she said, her words ringing throughStill, she was pleased with how personalized her care was. out the country to a groundswell of rallying support online. “The light bulb went on. This is what breast cancer research So, the question: Did being a survivor put ice in her is about. It’s for figuring out the best treatment protocols for veins? everyone because no two cancers are exactly alike,” she says. “I don’t know. Maybe going through some really scary And things were clicking. In stuff, on some level it maybe August, as chemo was wrapping toughened me up. I’ll be processup and her chance of recurrence ing the entire experience for a was down to about five percent long time,” Whelchel says. “The “Having gone through from 29 percent, she found herself ‘Jeopardy!’ experience was hard enrolling in community college on me. I lost two pounds that week those days where I thought music theory class. despite eating burgers and fries.” I was going to die, I just Years before, a course in Evidently, all those calotheory had left her shaken and ries were burned by her tremwanted to go for this thing unsure she belonged on the bling at the podium during her that had been looming over music major podium. She gradgames, so severe she had to sit in uated with a different degree. As between gameplay. my adult life.” she raised her kids and taught “This is kind of a wild theory. piano, thoughts of returning It was basically that my body had to for her degree appeared periodprocess my anxiety. It couldn’t be ically, though she had not buzzed in. Wasn’t that sheer my brain, because my brain had to play the game,” she says. “I vanity at this point, racking up tuition bills and adding a had to push the nerves into my body so I could play. My body commute while raising kids? has shaken before when I went in for my second C-section. I That, though, was before cancer. “Having gone was more scared the second time.” through those days where I thought I was going to die, And the universe had acted in other ways, too. I just wanted to go for this thing that had been looming Whelchel’s tape date wasn’t her original date—that was over my adult life. We really don’t know how much time Oct. 12. But she had her breast reconstruction scheduled we have,” Whelchel says. that week, and she wanted to stick to her plan of listening She loved her new theory course. to doctors. The coordinators agreed to call her back. That November, she auditioned for the bachelor’s in One month later, everyone who taped on Oct. 12 lost piano performance at Middle Tennessee State University. to Amy Schneider, who would complete the second-lonShe thought getting “The Call” from the contestant coorgest winning streak in “Jeopardy!” history. dinators at “Jeopardy!” was a feeling that couldn’t be beat. But around Thanksgiving, she got a letter from the director of graduate studies. If she added four classes to her planned schedule, she’d graduate with a master’s in piano. Whelchel flew to California, jubilant. “That news eclipsed ‘Jeopardy!’ I’ve been wanting a music degree way longer,” she says. She taped the show on the lot in Culver City and met up with Zoom trivia friends. The rest can be found splashed across every major news website. Whelchel broke the internet twice: once, when she won a tiebreaker caused by her forgetting to add a dollar to her “Final Jeopardy” bet; and again, when, after barreling through three wins in February 2022, she appeared on television without her blond wig. ‘Jeopardy!’ tapes five episodes per day, and Whelchel’s was the last tape day before Christmas. Unbeknownst to her friends, she had secretly flown back in January to keep taping and had time to think about how she wanted to show up as a cancer survivor, and how comfortable she wanted her head to be. Cancer Wellness

Awareness Through Art Renowned comic book artist J.G. Jones is using his artistic talent to spread the word about blood cancer. BY FRANCESCA HALIKIAS

Cancer Wellness

Photo provided by J.G. Jones

“I

Myelofibrosis is a cancer that causes scarring in bone wrote a little story with a friend of mine at a marrow and can lead to severe anemia, weakness and newspaper where I worked in Brooklyn. We fatigue. Because the disease was moving fast, Jones had a took it to a comic show, I got hired and I’ve stem cell transplant about three years ago. been doing it for 25 years now,” says Jeffrey After all he went through, Jones wanted to use his creJones, who goes by J.G. Jones in the comic book industry. ative talent to help spread awareness and bring the power Since the start of his career, Jones has designed ful stories of people with MPNs to life. “Rare Reflections: the covers for many well-known comic series, includMPNs Unmasked” is a program presented by Incyte that ing “Batman and Robin” and “Wonder Woman” from DC educates the public about MPNs. Jones partnered with Comics. He also worked on the first version of Marvel’s Incyte to use his graphic art to illustrate these stories of Yelena Belova in the “Black Widow” series, a character later people impacted by MPNs. featured in the popular film of the same name in 2021. “The best part of the whole project has been speaking to But it was in the thick of his career when Jones started other patients and getting to know having symptoms of what would later them and their stories,” says Jones. be diagnosed as polycythemia vera “Everybody’s journey is different and (PV), a rare blood cancer that falls into “Everybody’s journey is how they deal with it is different. a group of blood cancers known as Just talking to people and learning myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs). different and how they how they dealt with their MPNs has “I was in the middle of a deal with it is different. been fascinating and [I even made huge project, and I noticed myself friends] with some of the people that getting very tired and fatigued. At Just talking to people I interviewed. It’s been good for my first, I thought that it was just overwork. I would put my head down mental health to be able to tell my and learning how they on my drawing table to rest for a story and tell their stories.” dealt with their MPNs The “MPNs Unmasked” campaign little bit and wake up hours later,” includes Jones’s exclusive artwork in Jones recalls. Another symptom he has been fascinating.” an e-book format or, for a more interexperienced was itchiness after hot active experience, a virtual gallery showers, which he didn’t know at setting. You can immerse yourself the time is a classic symptom of PV. in an online art exhibit by clicking It took a couple of years before through the artwork and reading the stories of individuals Jones was diagnosed, however. What started as a routine living with MPNs. In the virtual theater, you can also view a checkup at the doctor turned into a referral to a hematolovideo of Jones detailing his personal experiences with MPNs. gist after Jones’ blood was so thick that it took 12 minutes As for the advice Jones would give to individuals with to fully fill a vial. The hematologist diagnosed Jones with an MPN? Be your own advocate. polycythemia vera. “Don’t wait,” says Jones, “because time is always of Treatment for PV was pretty straightforward for Jones. the essence with an MPN. You have to be careful with your “It was just a matter of keeping up with things, watching numbers and what’s going on. So, be your own health advoyour blood counts, getting treatments every few months. cate, take care of yourself, get all the resources you can and I went on my merry way for a long time. But after about don’t ignore it. You can have a great, happy long life.” eight or nine years, I had a sudden crash in my blood numbers, and that meant the disease was transforming For more information, visit VoicesofMPN.com. from polycythemia vera to myelofibrosis,” Jones explains.

Cancer Wellness

To The Screen Renee Ridgeley pushed for the inclusion of “The Simpsons” uniboob character Dr. Wendy Sage, but her breast cancer advocacy goes even further than that. BY MEGHAN KONKOL

Cancer Wellness

Photos provided by 20th Century Fox, and Renee Ridgeley

n October 2021, TV audiences were introduced to the first uniboob character on “The Simpsons,” Dr. Wendy Sage in the episode “Lisa’s Belly.” Sage is represented as a breast cancer survivor who has a visible port scar and one remaining breast post-mastectomy, with flat closure on her surgery side. This new character embraces body positivity and brings visibility to a body type not commonly featured in television. Sage works as a hypnotherapist in the show’s main setting of Springfield. In her debut episode, she is shown working with Lisa and Marge Simpson to overcome challenges with communication and body image. After their session with Sage, Lisa and Marge are kinder to each other and to themselves. Sage is voiced by Renee Ridgeley, a voice actress and breast cancer survivor married to one of the show’s writers and producers, Matt Selman. Ridgeley says that she had been asking Selman for many months to feature a “uniboob” character on “The Simpsons.” The idea was to not focus on cancer as the theme of an episode, Ridgeley explains. Rather, she wanted to simply normalize the inclusion of someone who was visually identifiable as a cancer survivor. When she first read the script for “Lisa’s Belly,” Ridgeley says, she knew immediately that the hypnotherapist character would be the perfect opportunity to make her “uniboob” dream a reality. She remembers thinking, “This is so perfect. The whole episode is about body positivity.” Ridgeley explains that while Sage is not meant to represent her personally, her own experience with bilateral mastectomy and aesthetic flat closure provided the necessary insight to accurately depict Sage as a breast cancer survivor. Through Ridgeley’s collaboration with “The Simpsons” character designers, Sage’s physical traits are noticeably realistic for someone who has undergone cancer treatment and related surgeries.

Notably, the episode script makes no reference to aiming to destigmatize aesthetic flat closure, alongside the fact that Sage is a breast cancer survivor. The cancer fellow survivor Stacey Sigman (founder of Flat Retreat component of her character is seen solely in her visual Community). representation. This intentional decision to present Sage Stand Tall AFC promotes body positivity and flat as a typical character in the show helps to normalize the closure at public events, primarily breast cancer awareappearance of one-breasted women, Ridgeley says. ness walks in October. Walking among a large crowd (and, Women who have had mastectomies, no matter their for some, proudly displaying their flat chests), these activsurgery outcomes, are “whole women,” she emphasizes. ists reach a wide audience and spark important conversa The caption on Ridgeley’s original Instagram post tions among the cancer community and general public. (@lessthantwobreasts) that introduced Sage reads from the The campaign also provides materials and support character’s own perspective: “When faced with mastectomy, for advocates who want to demonstrate at breast cancer I rejected the idea that people would see my one-breasted awareness events around the country. self as shameful, ugly, ‘not finished’ with treatment or less “For some events we were helping a couple people, and feminine. I am none of those. In fact, I feel proud, smokin’ then others like Central Park in New York were around 45 hot and whole. A boob is a small price to pay for more time or 50,” Ridgeley says. In 2021, Stand Tall AFC was active on this amazing planet.” at 24 events nationwide, including This Sage introduction reparound 250 advocates from the flat resents a place of healing that community—both “flatties” themRidgeley hopes all those facing selves and their allies. “It’s a journey to get breast cancer will someday reach. Ridgeley says that Stand Tall AFC there: accepting, “It’s a journey to get there: acceptorganizers were thrilled to see an ing, living in and appreciating your outpouring of love and support for living in and transformed body,” she says. flat advocates during the 2021 camappreciating your As Ridgeley hoped, introducing paign. Their work was met with such Sage as a one-breasted character positivity that additional organizers transformed body.” has had a positive response from the were brought on for future cambreast cancer community, who can paigns, including fellow survivor and now see themselves positively and activist Kim Bowles, founder of Not accurately represented on the longest-running primetime Putting On a Shirt. scripted TV show in the U.S. Stand Tall AFC looks forward to continued activi Looking ahead, Ridgeley says that Sage will continue ties and even higher turnouts at public events across the to be included as a regular Springfield resident in future country in 2022 and beyond. This advocacy work, carried episodes of “The Simpsons.” She adds that an updated out at gatherings with high visibility, “brings a sense of version of Sage’s appearance will show naturally brown depth and authenticity to breast cancer events. It gives us hair representing an avoidance of hair dye, an aquamarine a reason to be there,” Ridgeley says. blue shirt to recognize International Flat Day and pink trim on her shirt to represent the breast cancer ribbon color. Learn more about Stand Tall AFC and its upcoming campaigns Before the dream of Sage was formed, Ridgeley’s advocacy at standtallafc.org. work dates back several years to when she faced significant challenges in her own breast cancer treatment and surgeries. Ridgeley says that in her experience, surgeons did not provide a full range of information regarding the risks and benefits of different surgery options. Even five years later, she says, the traumatic experience continues to impact her greatly. She connected with an informal breast cancer group in the Los Angeles area and met others facing similar experiences. Ridgeley realized that many women were not presented with the benefits of aesthetic flat closure as an alternative to breast reconstruction. In cases where women are not fully informed of their choices, they are not empowered to make the best decisions for themselves as individuals, Ridgeley says. It was her participation in this group that inspired Ridgeley to start advocating for breast cancer patient rights specifically around surgical options. And although she personally had aesthetic flat closure, Ridgeley explains that she is not anti-breast reconstruction. Rather, she recognizes the choice as an individual one and advocates for fully informed decision-making for the best possible outcome. In 2021, Ridgeley took her advocacy work further by co-founding Stand Tall AFC, an awareness campaign Cancer Wellness

Surviving the Odds

After being treated for the wrong cancer for over a year, renowned pianist and composer Michael Wolff was diagnosed with a rare and untreatable cancer. Now, he’s in remission.

BY TAYLOR NOVAK

n Michael Wolff’s eyes, he is the luckiest guy in the world. Wolff’s doctor prescribed him a medicine typically The award-winning jazz pianist and composer used for people with metastasized melanoma. It wasn’t the was treated for the wrong cancer for over a year, narmost conventional treatment for Wolff’s cancer type, but rowly escaping the clutches of death before doctors at what did he have to lose? Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center came to his aid. Within two days of taking the medication, all of It all started about eight years ago when Wolff began Wolff’s symptoms disappeared. occasionally experiencing sore lymph nodes. His doctor “After a few days of that, I have my appointment. My initially brushed this off, but agreed to refer Wolff to an doctor was jumping up and down, high-fiving me,” Wolff oncologist when he began experiencing pain. says. “We did another PET scan; 10 days on this treat Other than this one symptom, Wolff was in good ment and I had a two percent reduction of all of my tumors. health. The oncologist decided to order a PET scan to err After a few months, there was just no cancer.” on the side of caution. The scan results were troubling. Wolff became the unofficial poster child of histiocytic Wolff was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma after sarcoma in medical journals. While a drug now exists to further testing. “It’s not curable, but it’s treatable,” Wolff’s treat histiocytic sarcoma, he didn’t have that option at the doctor told him. Because Wolff wasn’t showing signs of severe time of diagnosis. Additionally, Wolff was being seen by a ailment, the oncologist suggested waiting on treatment. sarcoma specialist but later learned that histiocytic sarcoma “I put it in the back of my mind and I just lived with it,” is actually a blood-based disease. Wolff says. “Truthfully, I sort of repressed my cancer diagnosis.” “I’m the luckiest guy in the world,” says Wolff, who is Nine months later, Wolff was no longer able to ignore now in remission. “I mean, I ended up with a lot of side his reality. In agonizing pain, he returned to the doctor effects; I take medicine every day. But I’m really lucky. I and began receiving treatment for can play the piano, I can work out, I can non-Hodgkin lymphoma. He had a positravel. I teach at NYU. It’s a miracle. It’s tive response at first, but then something amazing.” peculiar happened—this illness that the Wolff details this journey and more “I asked, ‘Am I doctor had told him was easily treatable in his new book, “On That Note.” He stopped responding to treatment. began writing his memoir before cancer, going to survive?’ “I was just feeling sicker and sicker but cancer is what pushed him to finish And the doctor and sicker,” says Wolff, who decided to it. It wasn’t easy, though. seek a second opinion. Those doctors “I felt pretty good about my first said, ‘Well, I’ll also confirmed the non-Hodgkin lymdraft that didn’t include cancer. I sent it fight with you.’” phoma diagnosis. “But the symptoms to an agent, and he really liked it,” Wolff just didn’t really go away. Then I started says. “But he told me, ‘When people do getting even worse symptoms.” memoirs, they usually have something Night sweats, rigors, excruciating pain—even Wolff’s that’s really difficult to overcome.’ I had something, but I Tourette syndrome, which he’d had since he was young, took was really avoiding it because I didn’t want to write about it. a backseat due to the cancer’s intensity. Wolff struggled to It was so traumatic.” make sense of his worsening condition. His wife eventually One day during treatment, he opened the memo app on convinced him to go to Memorial Sloan Kettering, where his phone and ended up writing the first chapter. After his yet another biopsy was performed alongside genomic blood ICU experience, he asked his doctor what he thought about tests that identify mutations. It ended up cracking the case. sharing his cancer journey in the book. “Look, it’s inside you The doctor at Memorial Sloan Kettering told Wolff that he anyway. You might as well write about it,” he told Wolff. had an extremely rare and untreatable cancer called histiocytic In “On That Note,” Wolff details not only his cancer sarcoma. Only a few hundred cases have ever been reported. journey, but his upbringing in the South, his extensive There was the possibility that Wolff, at some point, music career and even his time on Nickelodeon’s “The really did have lymphoma before it morphed into this new Naked Brothers Band” with his sons Alex and Nat Wolff. form of cancer. There was also the possibility that Wolff And he does it all with an air of transparency and humor. experienced a misdiagnosis. It’s unlikely he’ll ever know “It was very cathartic,” he says. “It didn’t cure me of anxiety, for certain, but now he was facing a different beast. but it was a good thing to do. I’m really proud of the book. I A PET scan showed cancer everywhere on his body. “I asked, like how it came out. Everybody that doesn’t have cancer says, ‘Am I going to survive?’ And the doctor said, ‘Well, I’ll fight with ‘Oh, cancer? That’s scary.’ When you get cancer, it’s another you.’ And we went home and that was it,” Wolff recounts. world that you hadn’t ever known before. I got through it, and if After a harrowing stint in the ICU with pneumonia and anybody can get something from it, that’s what matters.” sepsis, Wolff finally received his genomic test results. Wolff’s doctor was initially stumped by his case, but the genomic test “On That Note” by Michael Wolff is available now wherever results showed a mutation that led to a lifesaving breakthrough. books are sold. 56

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LUNG CANCER DIAGNOSIS?

Vogelzang Law remains dedicated to obtaining justice for those who have been diagnosed with Mesothelioma or lung cancer as a result of asbestos exposure. With over 20 years of experience in asbestos litigation, our team of attorneys has the tools and resources to fight diligently for you. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma or lung cancer due to asbestos exposure, we encourage you to give us a call or visit our website today. www.vogelzanglaw.com 312-820-8965

A Rewritten Route

Rick Bartlett, prostate cancer thriver, hopes revolutionary advancements in cancer care will encourage more men to take their health seriously. BY TAYLOR NOVAK

WHAT LED TO YOUR DIAGNOSIS? In May 2017, I went to see my urologist for a regular PSA check. I was living in Cumberland, Md. with my wife and two adult children, working as a helicopter pilot for the Maryland State Police, flying medevac, law enforcement and Search and Rescue missions. I was also an endurance cyclist, often riding up to 5,000 miles a year. My health was excellent. The only urinary symptoms I was experiencing was getting up at night to urinate. My urologist had treated me [for] over 15 years for BPH (enlarged prostate), which is quite common in older men and usually easily treated. During this visit, however, my urologist found my PSA level had increased to 4.3, slightly above the standard 4.0 threshold of concern. Dr. Allaway recommended a prostate biopsy. Other than the minor BPH symptoms, I had no other indications of possible prostate cancer—such is the insidious nature of the disease. That biopsy, using Dr. Allaway’s newly developed transperineal PrecisionPoint device, was able to take 21 core samples of all four quadrants of my prostate. It found that 16 of those cores had some cancerous cells. The pathology report graded me as “Intermediate Risk.” This stage of cancer in the prostate generally should be treated within six months. I thought, “OK, what’s the next step so I can get back to flying and cycling and living?” WHY DID YOU OPT FOR PRECISIONPOINT RATHER THAN MORE COMMON BIOPSY PROCEDURES? Purely by coincidence, Dr. Allaway had developed and patented the PrecisionPoint transperineal biopsy device in 2016. Once he explained its many advantages, such as about 30 percent better cancer detection, nearly zero percent risk of infection and reduced risk of potential complications, it was an easy choice. I feel very lucky that I happened to be seeing this particular urologist in a rural town. PrecisionPoint performs a transperineal biopsy, where a biopsy needle must pass through the perineum. The rectum is avoided, more core samples can be taken with less infection risk and only a local anesthetic is given. It was a simple office outpatient procedure. There was minimal bleeding, and virtually no pain. I walked out of the clinic and drove myself home. I was riding my bike a few days later and was back to work almost immediately. DID YOU HAVE ANY HESITATIONS DUE TO THE NOVELTY? Having had a longstanding relationship with my urologist, I was very comfortable accepting his recommendation. 58

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I think this is an important point for men over age 50 or so. You should establish a relationship with a urologist early on. If presented with a quick and relatively painless procedure that minimizes risks, men might be more willing to have a biopsy. Sadly, so many men won’t even undergo regular PSA testing. HOW IS YOUR QUALITY OF LIFE AT FOUR YEARS IN REMISSION? It’s tempting to say that I’m healthier now than I was before cancer. The aftereffects have been minimal. I attribute this to early detection via the PrecisionPoint biopsy, as well as strong physical conditioning both before and after surgery. The summer following my surgery, in July 2018, I participated in the annual Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center’s “Empire State Ride” across New York State. Although I had previously worked as staff on this 540-mile fundraising cycling event, now I was a cancer survivor, so it had new meaning. I managed to ride more than 700 miles that week. This past fall, I also led a group of 13 cyclists for a truly epic bike tour down the Pacific Coast Highway from Vancouver, B.C. to Baja, Mexico, covering more than 1,900 miles over 41 days. WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO YOU TO SHARE YOUR EXPERIENCE? I am all about sharing positive experiences. It saddens me that so many men do not take their prostate health seriously, or simply choose to ignore it out of fear or lack of current information. I saw the PrecisionPoint biopsy as a revolutionary change in prostate cancer diagnosis and I want desperately to spread the word to my male peers. Prostate cancer is not a death sentence.

THE MORE YOU KNOW Cancer screenings can save your life—but that doesn’t mean they’re pleasant to sit through. These less invasive options for men are changing the game.

BY TAYLOR NOVAK

ndergoing testing for cancer can be uncomfortable, tedious and invasive. But it’s crucial for your well-being. While all genders are acutely aware of the importance of these screenings, men have a tendency to hold off on procedures. A 2011 study in the American Journal of Men’s Health found that “men and women believed cancer screenings were effective, though a higher percentage of men had never had a past [cancer screening]. Men were less willing to participate.” However, the study also found that men’s willingness to participate in screenings increased when they were informed of procedures’ details beforehand. At Cancer Wellness, we understand the power of knowledge. To better inform our male readers, here’s a rundown of some common cancer screenings, less invasive options and what they all entail.

COLONOSCOPY Beginning at 45, the American Cancer Society recommends men undergo regular screenings to detect colon and rectal cancer. One of the most common (and often dreaded) methods to do so is a colonoscopy every 10 years. A new version of this procedure is the virtual colonoscopy. It consists of an X-ray examination of the colon that uses low dose computed tomography. If you are a candidate for this option, you’ll undergo a virtual colonoscopy every five years. No pain medicine or anesthesia is needed, it’s less invasive and it takes less time than a conventional colonoscopy. You’ll limit your diet to clear liquids for a day or two before the examination, as well as be provided a laxative pill the day prior. Consuming contrast media in drink form will allow technicians to view your colon more clearly on the X-ray images. According to Johns Hopkins University, the procedure involves inserting a small tube into the anus to inflate the colon, so growths are more easily seen. You’ll enter the CT scanner face-up while hundreds of images are taken, and you can return home immediately after. The entire process takes 10–15 minutes.

SKIN CANCER CHECKS Skin cancer poses a greater mortality risk to men than it does to women, but only 16 percent of men undergo skin checks. Self-skin checks every three months is the first step in noticing changes in your skin, and they’re less invasive than having a doctor look over your body. Still, visiting the dermatologist once a year over the age of 40 means you’ll have a professional spotter on your side. For self-exams, use a full-length mirror to see head to toe. Check your entire body, including the hidden places like your underarms, palms, bottoms of your feet and between your toes. Use a hand mirror or enlist help to check the back, neck and scalp. Look for any new moles, spots that are irregular circles or coloring different from your other moles. At the doctor, a skin check takes around half an hour. Yearly skin checks are typically covered by insurance plans. You can choose either a male or female dermatologist to examine your skin. A dermatoscope is used to magnify your moles for the doctor, and it is entirely painless. Recent advancements of the dermatoscope have lessened the use of skin biopsies to determine the presence of carcinoma. Nowadays, dermoscopy can detect benign lesions without a biopsy.

PSA TESTS The prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test consists of a blood draw that detects changes in a certain protein created by the prostate. It is the most common way to check for prostate cancer. Depending on how high your levels are alongside your risk factors, you may be recommended to undergo this blood test anywhere from every year to every two years. PSA tests are not a global solution to detecting prostate cancer, however. Overdiagnosis is possible, leading to unnecessary biopsies and other procedures. As of late, though, more accurate versions of the test are an option. In 2019, the Cleveland Clinic saw FDA approval for its IsoPSA blood test, and it is now endorsed by the National Cancer Comprehensive Network (NCCN). It’s been shown to reduce unnecessary prostate biopsies by 45 percent by identifying molecular changes in PSA. If you are facing the possibility of a prostate biopsy and seeking a second opinion, IsoPSA may be the route for you. Cancer Wellness

ONCOLOGY SPOTLIGHT: SUMMER 2022

These oncologists are contributing to the ever-evolving cancer care space. BY TAYLOR NOVAK

LORI WILSON, M.D. Surgical oncologist; Professor of Surgery, Associate Dean of Faculty Development; Diversity, Chief of Surgical Oncology, Howard University College of Medicine; Breast cancer survivor HOW DID YOUR SURGICAL ONCOLOGY BACKGROUND INFLUENCE YOUR APPROACH TO YOUR OWN DIAGNOSIS? It’s important to see yourself in the people that care for you and understand that they’re not just people who are there to give ideas or to help manage your care—they’re in it with you. I had already been practicing five-and-a-half years, but without the perspective of being a patient. What it gave me was an understanding of what my patients go through.

HOW DID EXPERIENCING CANCER FIRSTHAND IMPACT YOUR PHILOSOPHY OF CARE WITH YOUR OWN PATIENTS? When I look at my patient population, it is very reflective of my own ethnic background. I am African American, or Black, by descent. It’s a blessing being that person that cares for them and that they can relax and understand that I am making sure their needs are met. We want to make sure we are providing for them—that they know when they’re coming to us, they don’t have to worry that their care is not going to give them the best opportunity for cure. When I look at my life, this is not the life I expected to be leading; I thought I’d just be a little surgeon, that I’d get into medical school because I worked hard. In my life, I never would have thought something like this could happen to me. And if it can happen to me, it can happen to any of the young students and residents I’ve had the privilege to train and educate.

EVERETT E. VOKES, M.D. Oncologist, head and neck and lung cancers; Physician-In-Chief, University of Chicago Medicine and Biological Sciences, Chair, Department of Medicine WHAT DREW YOU TO THE HEAD AND NECK AND LUNG CANCER SPECIALTIES? Head and neck cancer frequently involves a socioeconomically disadvantaged population of patients and relates to alcohol and tobacco use. Over the last 20 years, we have also established viral origins. I was attracted to the field as the majority of patients can be treated with curative intent. It is an interesting field to develop new therapeutic approaches and clinical trials to optimize combined modality therapeutics. Witnessing increased cure rates over the years and achieving organ preservation has been extremely rewarding.

WHAT IS YOUR PRIMARY GOAL THROUGHOUT THE DOCTOR-PATIENT EXPERIENCE? When meeting a patient for the first time, it is important to address and listen to their concerns and those of their family members or support teams. It is important to build a relationship with the patient based on trust, communication and shared decision-making. We can help patients deal with the impact of a cancer diagnosis. The key to the doctor-patient relationship is communication as equal partners. 60

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SANTOSH KESARI, M.D., PH.D. Neurologist and neuro-oncologist; Regional Medical Director of Providence Southern California’s Research Clinical Institute WHAT FUELED YOUR INTEREST IN PURSUING NEURO-ONCOLOGY AS A CAREER?

ADEKUNLE ODUNSI, M.D., PH.D. Gynecologic oncologist; Director of the University of Chicago Medicine Comprehensive Cancer Center WHY DID YOU PURSUE WORK IN THE OVARIAN CANCER SPACE? During a medical school rotation and later during my OB-GYN residency, I saw the impact that a cancer diagnosis and treatment has on patients and their families. Specifically, I saw how ovarian cancer is a ‘silent killer.’ There are no early detection tests, and most patients are diagnosed with advanced disease. I was motivated by these experiences to make a difference for ovarian cancer patients and work in a complex field that required bold thinking and collaboration across disciplines.

IN WHAT WAYS IS IMMUNOTHERAPY AND VACCINE THERAPY RESHAPING CANCER CARE, ESPECIALLY IN TERMS OF HEALTH EQUITY? Immunotherapy and vaccine therapy have revolutionized cancer care in the last decade. My own research has led to immunotherapy strategies that have prolonged remission rates and improved outcomes for ovarian cancer patients. As far as health equity, we still have work to do. At the University of Chicago Medicine Comprehensive Cancer Center, we care for a high proportion of underrepresented minorities. We are laser-focused on improving equity at all stages of the cancer continuum.

Since grade school, I have been interested in medicine. As I got older, I really wanted to understand who we are and how we think, so I gravitated to studying neuroscience in college. This naturally led to studying brain tumors in medical school when I realized how big of an unmet need it was. Over the past two decades, neuro-oncology has been a rewarding field.

WHAT IS YOUR PRIMARY GOAL THROUGHOUT THE DOCTOR-PATIENT EXPERIENCE? My main goal in the doctor-patient relationship is to have the patient feel comfortable and understand their diagnosis and treatment plan, while answering all of their concerns, questions and fears. This will engender trust with the entire care team, so patients feel that we are all working on behalf of them to improve outlooks.

ULKA N. VAISHAMPAYAN, M.D. Oncologist, rare cancers; Lead investigator and professor, Internal Medicine Division of Hematology/ Oncology University of Michigan Chair, Phase I Therapeutics WHAT LED TO YOUR INTEREST IN TREATING RARE CANCERS? My interest in treating rare cancers stems from the fact that this is a disease state with a huge unmet need. There is no standard therapy established for most of these malignancies. The rare diseases/cancers get referred to the Phase I team frequently for management as this is usually considered the best therapy option. Making an impact in these diseases is a worthy goal and I view this as an untapped potential area of drug development.

HOW DOES THE FUTURE LOOK WHEN CONFRONTING CANCERS LIKE MUCOSAL MELANOMA AND PLATINUM-RESISTANT OVARIAN CANCER? The thing that these two diseases have in common is that both have a lack of any proven treatments. Investigational therapies such as nemvaleukin, which is designed to stimulate cancer-fighting immune cells in the body, may work against these cancers. There is reason to be cautiously optimistic. It creates a potential novel option to improve outcomes.

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SEARCHING FOR SUPPORT

In the cancer support landscape, groups tailored specifically to men offer a unique outlet.

BY MAURA KELLER

oday’s options for support groups are as diverse as the members participating. Some support groups are formal and focus on education, while others are informal and social. Some groups are composed only of people with a certain type of cancer or only caregivers, but another group may include spouses, family members or friends. And while many groups aren’t gendered, more and more men are seeking support spaces created specifically for them. According to Dr. Allison Forti, associate teaching professor at the Department of Counseling at Wake Forest University and group facilitator for Cone Health Cancer Center in Greensboro, S.C., men may prefer cancer support groups specifically for men because it feels safer and more comfortable—and thus, more helpful. “Being diagnosed with cancer and undergoing treatment can create a sense of vulnerability, anxiety, sadness and uncertainty,” Forti says. “This is hard for anyone, but for men socialized to avoid seeking help or raised in a culture that taught them the expression of pain is a sign of weakness, it can be especially isolating. These men are seeking empathy and understanding from someone who knows what it’s like to be the husband, father [or] son.” 62

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In a mixed-gender group, men may hold back genuine thoughts and feelings to maintain the social expectation of demonstrating strength, competence and certainty. Additionally, cancer treatment and post-treatment sometimes cause side effects that are unpleasant, embarrassing or sensitive. Discussing them with only men present may feel more comfortable. When Forti first started facilitating cancer groups, most of the participants were women; however, more recently, men are seeking support. “I think this has to do with evolving views on help-seeking for men, greater outreach to male cancer patients and attempts to destigmatize support services,” Forti says. Groups for men offer a greater sense of freedom and privacy. Men may feel more comfortable discussing marital concerns, sexual side effects of treatment and negative feelings based in gender differences with only males present. “I’ve noticed that participants in coed groups avoid discussing intimate topics, preferring to discuss more universal concerns related to cancer such as existential issues, questions about treatment, coping with non-sexual related side effects and general relational concerns,” Forti says.

Experts agree that men should consider the location mentor to three different men, two of whom he has been and accessibility of support groups, which are commonly able to maintain occasional contact with. offered in a cancer center, at a cancer center-sponsored “Through this program, I believe my story provided off-site location or through places of worship. hope to the men I supported, who were in the beginning “Men should consider whether they prefer a specific of their journeys with lung cancer. I was also able to firmly type of cancer support group or a mixed diagnosis group,” establish with them that getting a second opinion before Forti says. “Some cancer centers offer cancer-specific groups. beginning a treatment program was a must,” Cutler says. Though universal concerns occur for cancer patients, some Robert Brooks, a multiple myeloma cancer survivor, was concerns are limited to a specific type of cancer.” looking for a caring group of positive men that had similar Men should also consider their medical prognosis. Do they experiences they could share—one that was led by a deeply want to be in a group with other men who will complete treatment knowledgeable practitioner who embodied multicultural and likely not experience recurrence or do they prefer a group with perspectives by helping the men understand each journey. men who will always be in treatment or living with cancer? “I wasn’t certain that I could join a group long term, “Medical prognosis makes a significant difference in so I imagined a setting where respect was always shown the topics of discussion,” Forti says. “It changes the focus towards each other’s feelings and concerns,” Brooks says. of conversation and what feels supportive.” “The Karmanos Men’s Support Group is now like a family Billy Mayo is not only a cancer survivor but also one to me that meets all my criteria.” of the leaders of the men’s group at Canopy Survivorship The Karmanos Men’s Support Group offered by the Center with Memorial Hermann The Woodlands Medical Karmanos Cancer Institute in Detroit, Mich., meets twice a Center in Shenandoah, Texas. month in person and occasionally over Zoom. The men discuss “We have had a small core group of five to seven men how cancer affects their mind, body and spirit. They share their on a regular basis,” he says. “We try to provide the benefit of experiences with cancer, from diagnosis through managing our cancer experiences so they can realize that they are not treatments and their short- and long-term side effects. alone. Many of us have very similar paths, both as cancer “They talk about their spouses and support persons and patients and as caregivers, and these how they couldn’t have gotten through experiences hopefully can provide a this without them. They discuss how bit of comfort and guidance.” important it is to maintain their sense According to Katie Brown, of independence,” says Kathleen “Many of us have very OPN-CG, senior vice president of surviHardy, LMSW, oncology social worker vorship and support at the LUNGevity at Karmanos Cancer Institute. similar paths, and these Foundation, men don’t have to suffer “They share about all the loss experiences hopefully through their lung cancer journey cancer has brought into their lives: loss alone. Connecting with others experiof health as they knew it; loss of control can provide a bit of encing the same diagnosis can alleviate and uncertainty about the future; loss comfort and guidance.” feelings of stress and isolation. of employment and income; and their Edward Cutler is a lung cancer role in the family and the community,” survivor and participant in one of the she continues. ”They support each men’s support groups offered by the other with humor and hope. They call LUNGevity Foundation. Cutler was looking for a support themselves ‘The Outliers,’ as they believe they have done far group that would be conducive for men to talk with each better than they would have imagined when diagnosed.” other about their individual medical situations and how Hardy says the camaraderie in the group is important. They their cancer diagnosis and treatment affected their marital meet for coffee before group gatherings and go on weekend cancer and family relationships. retreats, golf outings and fly-fishing trips together. They encour “I first looked to my comprehensive cancer center for age their partners to join the spouses/significant others group. leads on male support groups, but had no success there. I And they pick each other up for group meetings when needed. accidentally came upon the group Man Up To Cancer “Some men may not want to talk about cancer in (MUTC), which has a website and a private Facebook group, other settings, but this group provides them support and while I was browsing the internet,” Cutler says. “I’ve also the ability to connect socially with each other both inside participated in the LUNGevity Foundation’s Zoom support and outside of our regular meetings,” Hardy says. groups, which have been helpful to me. Anyone can partici Brooks stresses that the group meetings keep him pate and if you miss one, you can catch up at the next one. I abreast of resources for his specific cancer and allow him don’t know of any other support groups that do that.” to share his experiences to help others in their journeys. Cutler has been happy with the ease in which the men “I’ve found the camaraderie and caring amongst the men of MUTC converse with each other directly or within the is contagious,” Brooks says. He recommends men with cancer group as a whole, both in writing on the Facebook group to be open-minded and share their journey, as they may be or during the group’s bi-weekly Zoom meetups. surprised how uplifting and informative each session can be. “Even though we may not have the same cancer, we “Being in a caring group is non-judgmental, so treat it can be dealing with similar issues and talk about them that way. Groups provide an opportunity to discuss things you openly. I have even met one man in person, who had colmight be uncomfortable discussing with others—even your orectal cancer and who lives within a few miles of me,” oncologist,” Brooks says. “Listen to the advice coming from says Cutler, who has also served as a LifeLine Support your group participants as it can keep you on your pathway to Partner for LUNGevity’s peer-to-peer program as a healthy living.” Cancer Wellness

cW LIBRARY BY FRANCESCA HALIKIAS

THE BRAIN ON CANNABIS: WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT RECREATIONAL AND MEDICAL MARIJUANA BY REBECCA SIEGEL, M.D. “It was so interesting to me to dive into the understanding of [cannabis] and gain knowledge so I could help other people,” says Dr. Rebecca Siegel, an adult and child psychiatrist. Siegel’s book, “The Brain on Cannabis,” has loads of information about recreational and medical marijuana packed between its pages. Siegel’s objective and educational stance on cannabis offers readers insight on the pros and cons of marijuana, exploring the growing movement of people using cannabis to aid in problems such as depression, anxiety and chronic pain. Siegel writes that her first experience of someone she knew talking about medical marijuana came from her daughter’s friend’s mother on the soccer field. The woman had told Siegel that she would be starting chemotherapy soon for breast cancer and heard that cannabis might be helpful to manage treatment side effects. “I said, ‘This is something that I think is an option for you and you need to talk about it with your doctors.’ I didn’t want to do something that was going to harm her,” explains Siegel. “She talked to her doctors, came back to me and said they’re on board with it and I ended up certifying her for that purpose when she started chemo. A month later, she told me [cannabis] really helped her get through it. I saw firsthand what it could do with a therapeutic purpose.” While Siegel acknowledges that cannabis can help people reduce painful symptoms and quell depression or anxiety, there can be small risks associated with the drug. Some people may benefit from cannabis use, and others may find that it increases anxiety and paranoia or causes nausea. “You need to proceed with caution. Cannabis has wonderful options and is natural, but it can impact people in a whole lot of ways—some wonderful and beneficial, others not so much,” says Siegel. Siegel never intended to write a book, but after learning about cannabis through medical conferences and her own research and having her patients ask about it, she believes everyone deserves to know information about cannabis for medical purposes. She also wanted people to have options when it came to finding ways to alleviate symptoms—whether for cancer, pain or mental health struggles. “When you feel you have no options, it’s the worst way to feel,” expresses Siegel. “And then you start seeking out all kinds of stuff that might not be the best thing.” Siegel hopes that “The Brain on Cannabis” helps anyone curious about cannabis make an informed decision about talking to their physician about it.

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PROSTATE CANCER: SHEEP OR WOLF?: NAVIGATING SYSTEMIC MISINFORMATION BY MURRAY KEITH WADSWORTH In “Prostate Cancer: Sheep or Wolf?: Navigating Systemic Misinformation,” Murray Keith Wadsworth details his prostate cancer diagnosis and the differences in treatment options in the U.S. and Europe. Wadsworth explores the many thorough methods of screening in Europe that are not offered in the U.S., stressing the importance of self-advocacy when it comes to your health. By dividing the book into timelines, research and his RV road trips between four treatment regimens, Wadsworth empowers readers to dig deeper into their health care decisions.

RADICAL REMISSION: SURVIVING CANCER AGAINST ALL ODDS BY KELLY A. TURNER In “Radical Remission: Surviving Cancer Against All Odds,” Kelly A. Turner gives readers insight on “Radical Remission” survivors—patients who have cleared their cancer by drastically changing their lifestyles alongside conventional medicine. While Turner does not discount traditional medicine, often encouraging it, her work provides a new perspective on caring for cancer. The book contains real-life cancer patient experiences and details how actions such as changing your diet, following your intuition and eliminating stress may help you better treat your cancer and clear unwanted health problems.

Get a Handle on Health Insurance Picking a health insurance plan is not a one-time task. Demystify the lifelong process with this handy guide from Triage Cancer. BY JOANNA MORALES, ESQ., CEO

hen dealing with a cancer diagnosis, there’s much to learn and many decisions to make. Trying to juggle it all can feel overwhelming. Our goal at Triage Cancer is to provide useful, accurate information about the legal and practical issues that can come with a cancer diagnosis. Armed with that information, people can better decide what to handle first and what to put off until later—the very definition of “triage.” One of those issues is having the right health insurance plan, ensuring that it will cover the care that you need and not leave you with huge out-of-pocket costs and medical bills. Thanks to the Affordable Care Act (ACA), Americans have more options for health insurance and consumer protections than ever before. However, few of us are taught how to pick between health insurance options.

If you feel confused, you are not alone. Numerous studies show that a majority of Americans do not understand health insurance. It’s no surprise that people may not be picking plans that work for them or using their plans to maximum potential. Confusion about the health care system is compounded by the fact that things are frequently changing at the state and federal levels. Individuals often do not know where to turn for reliable, unbiased information. Even if you already have a health care plan that works for you, it’s good to make sure it’s still the best option for you. Plans and pricing can change every year, so you may be able to find new coverage that is more affordable or better fits your needs (i.e., covering your providers or prescription drugs).

HERE ARE SOME KEY STEPS TO HELP YOU EFFICIENTLY COMPARE YOUR HEALTH INSURANCE OPTIONS: 1. UNDERSTAND THE TERMS USED IN HEALTH INSURANCE. ONLY FOUR PERCENT OF AMERICANS CAN DEFINE THESE TERMS, BUT KNOWING WHAT THEY MEAN WILL HELP YOU GET THE COVERAGE YOU NEED. • ANNUAL DEDUCTIBLE: THE FIXED DOLLAR AMOUNT YOU HAVE TO PAY OUTOF-POCKET EACH YEAR, BEFORE YOUR HEALTH INSURANCE POLICY KICKS IN (E.G., $500, $5,000 OR $0)

2. UNDERSTAND THE PROTECTIONS THAT EXIST FOR HEALTH INSURANCE CONSUMERS. FOR EXAMPLE: • AS OF JAN. 1, 2014, YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO PURCHASE INDIVIDUAL HEALTH INSURANCE EVEN IF YOU HAVE A PRE-EXISTING MEDICAL CONDITION SUCH AS CANCER. YOU CANNOT BE DENIED COVERAGE AND YOU CANNOT BE CHARGED MORE BECAUSE OF YOUR CANCER HISTORY.

DRUGS COVERED BY THE PLAN (I.E., THE FORMULARY). • WHEN COMPARING PLANS, DO THE MATH. TO CALCULATE THE TRUE COST OF A HEALTH INSURANCE PLAN, MULTIPLY THE MONTHLY PREMIUM BY 12, THEN ADD THAT NUMBER TO THE OUT-OF-POCKET MAXIMUM. THE TOTAL IS THE MOST YOU WILL PAY FOR THE YEAR TO HAVE THE PLAN AND USE IN-NETWORK, COVERED SERVICES.

• COPAYMENT: A FIXED DOLLAR AMOUNT YOU PAY WHEN YOU GET MEDICAL CARE (E.G., A $10 COPAYMENT TO VISIT THE DOCTOR)

• IF YOU GET A PLAN THROUGH YOUR EMPLOYER, THE INSURANCE COMPANY CANNOT IMPOSE AN EXCLUSION PERIOD WHEN IT WILL NOT COVER CARE FOR YOUR PRE-EXISTING CONDITIONS.

ONCE YOU FIND A PLAN THAT WORKS FOR YOU, YOU NEED TO MAKE SURE THAT IT IS STILL THE BEST OPTION FOR YOU— EVERY SINGLE YEAR. UNFORTUNATELY, PICKING A HEALTH INSURANCE PLAN IS NOT A ONE-TIME CHORE, BUT IT CAN GET EASIER WHEN YOU ARM YOURSELF WITH KNOWLEDGE.

• CO-INSURANCE (COST-SHARE): A PERCENTAGE DIFFERENCE IN WHAT THE INSURANCE COMPANY PAYS FOR YOUR MEDICAL EXPENSES AND WHAT YOU PAY FOR YOUR MEDICAL EXPENSES (E.G., 80 PERCENT/20 PERCENT) • OUT-OF-POCKET MAXIMUM: A FIXED DOLLAR AMOUNT THAT IS THE MOST THAT YOU WILL HAVE TO PAY FOR YOUR MEDICAL EXPENSES OUT-OF-POCKET DURING THE YEAR *GENERALLY, YOUR OUT-OF-POCKET MAXIMUM INCLUDES WHAT YOU PAY FOR YOUR DEDUCTIBLE, COPAYMENTS AND CO-INSURANCE. ONCE YOU REACH YOUR OUT-OF-POCKET MAXIMUM, YOUR INSURANCE PAYS A HUNDRED PERCENT OF YOUR MEDICAL EXPENSES FOR THE REST OF THE YEAR. MOST INSURANCE COMPANIES ONLY COUNT EXPENSES TOWARDS THE OUT-OFPOCKET MAXIMUM THAT ARE FROM IN-NETWORK PROVIDERS. ALSO, SOME EMPLOYER-SPONSORED PLANS MAY CARVE OUT EXPENSES FROM THE OUT-OF-POCKET MAXIMUM (E.G., COPAYMENTS WON’T COUNT TOWARD YOUR OUT-OF-POCKET MAXIMUM). FINALLY, MONTHLY PREMIUMS ARE NEVER INCLUDED IN AN OUT-OF-POCKET MAXIMUM.

3. INVESTIGATE ALL OF YOUR HEALTH INSURANCE OPTIONS. • IT IS IMPORTANT TO UNDERSTAND ALL OF YOUR HEALTH INSURANCE OPTIONS FOR COMPARISON IN ORDER TO FIND THE PLAN THAT WORKS BEST FOR YOU. FOR EXAMPLE, IF YOUR EMPLOYER OFFERS YOU A HEALTH INSURANCE PLAN BUT IT HAS A VERY HIGH DEDUCTIBLE OR DOES NOT COVER YOUR PROVIDERS, THEN YOU MAY WANT TO CONSIDER BUYING A PLAN IN THE STATE HEALTH INSURANCE MARKETPLACE.

For more information about health insurance terms, picking a health insurance plan and using insurance, visit TriageCancer.org/ HealthInsurance.

4. COMPARE YOUR HEALTH INSURANCE OPTIONS. • THERE ARE THREE KEY THINGS TO LOOK FOR WHEN COMPARING YOUR HEALTH INSURANCE OPTIONS: 1) THE COSTS (E.G., MONTHLY PREMIUM AND OUT-OFPOCKET MAXIMUM); 2) PROVIDER COVERAGE; AND 3) INCLUSION OF YOUR PRESCRIPTIONS ON THE LIST OF Cancer Wellness

JOIN OUR MESOTHELIOMA SUPPORT GROUP Mesothelioma is a rare cancer affecting 3,000 people every year in the United States. With a latency period of 20 to 30 years, most mesothelioma patients are over the age of 70 when diagnosed. Our Mesothelioma Support Group was created with mesothelioma patients and their loved ones in mind. Moderated by our certified mesothelioma cancer coach Mirela Kopier, our Mesothelioma Support Group is a safe space for you and your loved ones to get the answers you need and the support you deserve. We invite you to join our group today. 866-510-7788 www.MesoSupport.org

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