Blogs
Another Health Issue Put Me Back in the ‘Cancer Gray Zone’
I once again find myself in the cancer gray zone after being diagnosed with pulmonary lung disease — will this lead to another cancer diagnosis?
Many Thoughts Flooded My Mind When I Received a Cancer Diagnosis
“Was I OK with dying? Would I still be there for my dog? Can I still smoke?” — all these thoughts entered my mind when my oncologist told me that I had leukemia.
Boundaries Are Essential for Happy Holidays During Cancer
The thought of hosting family for a week in the middle of cancer treatment made me anxious, so I set a boundary — and felt much better after the fact.
My Prostate Cancer Journey: Newbie to Advocate
Now that I consider myself as a prostate cancer veteran, I find joy in offering support to others who have fears about their disease and death.
A Simple Task Brought on an Unexpected Cancer Flashback
I was recently making myself lunch when suddenly, I was hit by an unexpected flashback to my daughter’s breast cancer experience.
Cancer Is Sometimes a Social Crutch in Conversations, But Should It Be?
For years, many of my conversations have revolved around my cancer. Now that I’m in the survivorship phase, I’m trying to be more mindful of these interactions.
This Breast Cancer Awareness Slogan Really Stuck Out, and Not in a Good Way
I had a wonderful time at a recent breast cancer walk, until I got home and found a bracelet with a raunchy saying on it in my survivor’s gift bag.
It’s Tough to Be Vulnerable About Cancer and Other Health Complications
Cancer attacks your body and puts you in a very vulnerable position.
Having Cancer Taught Me About Self Advocacy
After being diagnosed with mesothelioma, I learned to advocate for myself, and realized that it was an incredibly important life skill to have.
My Team of Local and Research-Based Oncologists Is the Best of Both Worlds
Since I have stage 4 breast cancer, I wanted an oncologist affiliated with a research institution. However, I hated the prospect of frequent long drives for care. Luckily, I got the best of both worlds.
Can Baking Bread Be Cancer Therapy?
I made a point to continue baking a weekly challah bread after I was diagnosed with blood cancer, and it proved to be therapeutic.
Every Day Financial Toxicity: Even With Good Insurance, the Smaller Costs of Cancer Care Add Up
When people say. “It’s just $35 to see a specialist,” they miss the entire issue of cancer-related financial toxicity.
Take a Break from the Darkness of Cancer and Draw a Halloween Monster
I know that cancer is not lighthearted but wanted to offer a fun Halloween drawing activity for those affected by the disease.
I Shouldn’t Have to Pretend ‘Minor’ Side Effects From Cancer Treatment Don’t Bother Me
Researchers running clinical should be aware of how these new drugs affect our day-to-day lives — not just in the big ways, but also the small ones that take their toll over the long haul.
A Cancer Support Group Gave Me Space to Heal
Brest cancer treatment was a scary experience, but thankfully a survivorship support group helped me heal.
I’m Learning to Outsmart Cancer
If I put all my energy into fighting breast cancer, I’d be bringing the disease into focus every day. Instead, I’m working on outsmarting cancer.
On the Rails of Cancer: My Favorite Walking Trail Made Me Feel Like ‘The Little Engine That Could’
Walking on the American Tobacco Trail has become church-like to me, as I ponder life with cancer.
Thoughts on Breast Cancer Awareness Month: the Disease Is No ‘Stroll Through the Park’
Truly raising awareness for breast cancer — or any other disease — can’t be done with walks and colorful ribbons, but through seeing the people who are affected by the illness.
Adopting a Dog Helped Me Out of the Post-Cancer and COVID-19 Rut
When I found myself struggling with anxiety and depression after cancer and COVID-19, I decided a therapy dog might be a good idea, so I adopted one.
Shifting Thoughts About Pinktober and Breast Cancer Education
My view on Breast Cancer Awareness month — aka “Pinktober” — shifted after my daughter was diagnosed.
Cancer Led Me to Health Advocacy, from PSA Screenings to COVID-19 Vaccinations
As a survivor, I always urged people to get cancer screenings, and now I’ve found myself advocating for the COVID-19 booster shots, too.
From Pain to Gain: My Family Moved Away After My Cancer, But It All Worked Out
After my cancer diagnosis, my family moved to Florida, which upset me at first, but ended up being a good thing.
When Pinktober Brings Another Breast Cancer Diagnosis
Here are some tips on how I helped a friend who was recently diagnosed with breast cancer.
Don't Let a Good Doctor Go: My Pediatrician Helped Guide Me Through Cancer
I sent all my cancer scans to my pediatrician, who combined the power of science with the power of belief and helped me through the difficult time.
I’m Letting Go of the Victim Mentality and Celebrating Life Post-Cancer
I recently decided to stop feeling like a victim in life after cancer. Instead, I’ll celebrate life every day.
How to Use Drawing as a ‘Creative Break’ From Cancer
A professional illustrator and former cancer caregiver uses a detailed step-by-step approach using simple shapes such as circles and rectangles to demonstrate how others can easily draw a lion.
A Month of Pink Is Not Enough to Prevent Breast Cancer Deaths
I wish “Pinktober” was more about saving the people who will die from breast cancer and less about pink ribbons and sexualizing the disease.
No Second Thoughts About My Daughter’s Cancer Treatment Choices
It’s easy to question treatment choices patients with cancer make, but my job as the mother of a patient was to be supportive.
I Plan to Beat Cancer by ‘Hoofing’ It
Walking has played a key role in my cancer experience, as it helps my mental and physical health.
I’m Seeking Balance Between Toxic Positivity and Negative Vibes About Cancer
The truth is I stagger back and forth between the two camps — tell it like it is or walking on sunshine. It depends on the day, my treatment regimen, the lab or scan results, the losses and the gains.