All articles tagged with #survivorship
Research indicates that a healthy diet and regular exercise can significantly reduce the risk of cancer recurrence and improve survival rates, with studies supporting the integration of nutrition and physical activity into cancer treatment and survivorship plans.
EJ Beck, a thyroid cancer survivor, and Brendan Harley, a leukemia survivor, both faced significant disruptions in their education and social lives due to their illnesses. Despite these challenges, they have turned their experiences into missions to improve cancer care. Beck is now a medical student at the hospital where she was treated, while Harley is a biochemical engineer developing better cancer treatments. Their stories highlight the importance of comprehensive support for young cancer patients, including educational assistance and emotional support, to help them reintegrate into normal life post-treatment.
A new generation of cancer survivors is emerging, with early diagnoses and longer lifespans due to medical advancements like AI and genetic tools. However, cancer is becoming more common, especially among young adults, complicating their lives as they navigate careers and family. While the causes of increased cancer rates in young people are unclear, factors like obesity and pollutants may contribute. Young survivors face unique challenges but also find profound meaning and resilience in their experiences, highlighting the need for tailored support systems.
Lourdes Monje, diagnosed with breast cancer at 25, exemplifies a new generation of young cancer survivors who face unique challenges post-treatment, including financial insecurity and social isolation. Advances in cancer care, such as AI and targeted therapies, have improved survival rates, but young survivors often struggle with life recalibration, including career, dating, and family planning. Advocacy groups emphasize the need for earlier discussions on survivorship issues to better prepare young patients for life after cancer.
Kathy Giusti, a two-time cancer survivor, shares her journey from a fatal diagnosis to fearless activism in cancer research and patient advocacy. She emphasizes the importance of patients taking charge of their healthcare, understanding their disease, and respecting caregivers' needs. Giusti's new book, "Fatal to Fearless," offers 12 steps to navigate the broken medical system and provides insightful advice for anyone facing a life-changing illness. As the founder of the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation, she has raised over $500 million for research and helped develop treatments, emphasizing the power of patient involvement in research and healthcare disruption.
Dr. Chris Scuderi, a Florida physician and cancer survivor, shares his journey with bladder cancer to help others cope with the emotional impact of a cancer diagnosis. He emphasizes the importance of addressing overwhelming emotions, seeking support from healthcare teams and loved ones, maintaining physical activity, and focusing on gratitude and present-day living. Another cancer survivor, Erin Gratsch, also shares her experience and offers tips for navigating the initial days and weeks post-diagnosis.
Researchers at Fox Chase Cancer Center are conducting a study to understand the environmental factors that contribute to pancreatic cancer, both around the person and around the tumor. The study will collect blood, saliva, and tissue samples, along with lifestyle questionnaires, to analyze the impact of factors such as diet, lifestyle, and stress on the development and treatment of pancreatic cancer. The findings could lead to improved combinations of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, potentially increasing the survival rates for pancreatic cancer patients and providing insights for treating other types of cancer as well.
A mother's cancer diagnosis was discovered after her children's pediatrician noticed something was wrong during their visit. She was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia and underwent intense chemotherapy, eventually going into remission after a stem cell transplant. Inspired by her own journey, she and her husband founded Luminaries, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting cancer survivors in their post-treatment phase by providing self-care kits and resources. Their mission is to ensure that every survivor has access to the tools and support they need.
Laura Hendricks discovered she had acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) after a routine visit to the paediatrician with her sick children. The doctor noticed something was wrong with Laura's health and recommended further examination, leading to the shocking diagnosis. After seven months of intense chemotherapy and a stem cell transplant, Laura achieved remission and has remained cancer-free for five years. Inspired by her own journey, Laura and her husband founded Luminaries, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting cancer survivors in their post-treatment phase by providing self-care kits and resources. Their mission is to ensure that every survivor has access to the tools and support needed to navigate life beyond cancer treatment.
Jill Martin, a contributor to TODAY, returned to the show after a three-week absence following her breast cancer diagnosis and double mastectomy. She shared her experience and emphasized the importance of genetic testing for early detection. Jill's surgeon reported that the surgery went well, and the next steps in her treatment include a full hysterectomy, anti-hormonal drug therapy, and possibly chemotherapy. Despite the challenges, Jill remains determined to continue working and not let cancer define her.