There were many excuses to put off my colonoscopy. I didn’t have symptoms. I’m only 53. I’m too busy. I wrote in my daily calendar probably 30 different times, “Call to make colonoscopy appointment.” But I didn’t call. What about the prep? What if the doctor finds something suspicious? I amazed myself with how many …
I just had my first colonoscopy. Here’s what it’s really like Read More »
When you need chemotherapy as a part of your cancer treatment, it’s normal to have many questions and fears. What will my treatment entail? Will I lose my hair? How will it make me feel? You may have heard about someone who had a serious side effect from chemotherapy, or maybe you’ve seen chemo portrayed …
Navigating chemotherapy: How to prepare and what to expect during chemo Read More »
One of the biggest health concerns women around the world face is the possibility of developing breast cancer. It’s normal to worry about breast cancer, especially as you age and especially if you have a family history. Keep in mind, just because you have a family history of breast cancer, this does not mean you …
Family history of breast cancer? Here’s what that means for you Read More »
A cancer diagnosis can turn your family’s entire world upside down. With cancer often comes a boatload of stress—and not just for you. Family and friends often experience varying levels of distress, anxiety and depression. They may also feel guilty that they aren’t sick or hopeless because they don’t know how to help. “Cancer not …
How to help your family cope with the stress of a cancer diagnosis Read More »
When your loved one is diagnosed with cancer, it changes your life too. According to the National Coalition for Cancer Survivors, caregivers are considered “survivors” along with their loved ones. That’s because they also experience life-changing effects and challenges due to cancer. The title of “cancer caregiver” is probably one that you never thought you’d …
What to expect when you become a cancer caregiver Read More »
After decades in education as a teacher, principal and administrator, Pam Neves was enjoying her retirement. She was relishing time with family, traveling, fun with friends and the occasional pickle ball game. There was one aspect of life after retirement that she never saw coming—cancer. Like many others, Pam’s life changed suddenly and completely. In …
Living life to the fullest in the face of breast cancer Read More »
Chances are, you know someone who has been diagnosed with breast cancer. Maybe it even runs in your family and you’re worried about your own risk. Or maybe you’re simply starting to get older and you want to know how to prevent it from happening to you. While cancer can strike anyone, some people—mostly women, …
Even for adults, cancer is a big diagnosis to process. And if you have children, you may be unsure how to help them understand your diagnosis too. From toddlers to teens, telling kids about cancer is one of the conversations that recently diagnosed parents struggle with the most. While your initial reaction may be to …
Retired US Navy Lt. Cmdr. Bren Doreck has fought his fair share of battles. But there’s one battle he never saw coming—cancer. At only 39 years old, he was diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) while fighting for his country overseas. Suddenly, Bren found himself in a battle for his life. It’s only through his unwavering strength, …
Navy veteran overcomes leukemia with help of his birth mother Read More »
Sometimes, as women, we have a hard time prioritizing ourselves. We take care of our other priorities, such as family and work, before we take care of our own needs. In doing this, it’s all too easy to ignore common cancer symptoms for far too long. Here’s what I want you to hear today—putting yourself …