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Why am I changing? Cancer is a life-altering experience that affects not only the body but also the mind and emotions. It is not uncommon for cancer patients to experience personality changes during their journey. These changes can be attributed to a combination of factors, including the psychological impact of the diagnosis , emotional distress, physical symptoms, and the side effects of treatment. Emotions during cancer Cancer patients often go through a rollercoaster of emotions , ranging from fear, sadness, anger, and anxiety to hope, resilience, and determination. These intense emotions can contribute to shifts in personality and behavior. Additionally, the psychological stress of living with a life-threatening illness can cause individuals to react differently to situations or exhibit changes in their usual temperament. Coping with mood swings Coping with mood swings and personality changes can be challenging, both for the patient and their loved ones. Here are some strategies to navigate these changes: Self-awareness: Recognize that personality changes can be a normal response to the emotional and physical challenges of cancer. Accepting and acknowledging these changes can help you understanding and managing them. Open communication: Maintain open and honest communication with healthcare providers, family, and friends. Share your emotions, concerns, and experiences to feel more supported. Seek professional help: Consider seeking support from therapists , counselors, or support groups . These resources can provide guidance and coping strategies to navigate the emotional ups and downs and help restore a sense of normalcy. Self-care: Engage in self-care activities that promote emotional well-being, such as mindfulness , meditation, journaling, or doing hobbies that make you happy. Self-compassion: Practice self-compassion and be patient with yourself. Understand that personality changes are often temporary and part of the healing process. Similarly, your loved ones should be empathetic and recognize that these changes are not a reflection of your true character. Personality changes in cancer patients are a normal response to the emotional and physical challenges they face. The intense emotions, psychological stress, and side effects of treatment can contribute to shifts in behavior and temperament. Understanding and accepting these changes, along with seeking support, practicing self-care, and maintaining open communication, can help you navigate the emotional journey of cancer.

We compiled a list of 20 books that offer personal accounts, reflections, and insights into the experiences of cancer patients and caregivers, providing different perspectives on the challenges and triumphs associated with the disease. "The Bright Hour: A Memoir of Living and Dying" by Nina Riggs: Riggs confronts her terminal breast cancer diagnosis with grace and humor, exploring life's beauty and the inevitable reality of mortality. "When Breath Becomes Air" by Paul Kalanithi: A neurosurgeon's poignant memoir reflecting on life, love, and the pursuit of meaning after being diagnosed with terminal lung cancer. "The Cancer Journals" by Audre Lorde: Lorde's powerful collection of essays and poetry delves into her experiences as a black lesbian feminist dealing with breast cancer and the intersectionality of her identity. "The Middle Place" by Kelly Corrigan: Corrigan's memoir shares her poignant journey as she balances her own breast cancer diagnosis while caring for her aging father with cancer. "Everything Happens for a Reason: And Other Lies I've Loved" by Kate Bowler: Bowler's memoir challenges the notion that everything happens for a reason as she grapples with her stage IV colon cancer diagnosis and explores faith, mortality, and life's uncertainties. "The Year of Magical Thinking" by Joan Didion: Didion's raw and honest memoir recounts the year following her husband's death and her daughter's critical illness, delving into the complexities of grief and loss. "Cancer Schmancer" by Fran Drescher: Drescher's memoir chronicles her battle with uterine cancer, providing insights into her journey of empowerment, advocacy, and the importance of early detection. "Bald is Better with Earrings: A Survivor's Guide to Getting Through Breast Cancer" by Andrea Hutton: Hutton shares her personal experiences and practical advice as she navigates the challenges of breast cancer treatment, from diagnosis to recovery. "Dying to Be Me: My Journey from Cancer, to Near Death, to True Healing" by Anita Moorjani: Moorjani's transformative memoir recounts her near-death experience during a coma caused by stage IV lymphoma and the profound insights and healing she gained. "The Unwinding of the Miracle: A Memoir of Life, Death, and Everything That Comes After" by Julie Yip-Williams: Yip-Williams reflects on her experiences as a blind child in Vietnam, her battle with colon cancer, and her journey towards acceptance and embracing the beauty of life. "Cancer Made Me a Shallower Person: A Memoir in Comics" by Miriam Engelberg: Engelberg's graphic memoir humorously captures her experiences as a breast cancer patient, offering a unique perspective on the challenges and absurdities of the disease. "The Last Lecture" by Randy Pausch: Pausch's inspiring memoir shares his life lessons and reflections after being diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer, encouraging readers to make the most of their time and pursue their dreams. "My Sister's Keeper" by Jodi Picoult: A thought-provoking novel exploring the ethical and emotional complexities of a family's decision-making as they grapple with their daughter's cancer diagnosis and the implications of organ donation. “A Cancer Patient’s Wife“ by Maren Higbee: When Maggie’s beloved husband, Luke, is diagnosed with cancer, she uses empathy and humor to navigate her fear and sorrow and help him survive. "The Case for Hope" by Jennifer Dickenson: In 2011, Jennifer Dickenson was a busy lawyer when she was diagnosed with grade 4 brain cancer and given scant hope for survival. But she started looking for hope anyway and discovered the magnificent ways in which we can heal through the mind, body, and spirit. “Hope Triumphs ALL” by Emily Yatsko Sandusky: In this compilation of experiences, reflections, and journal entries, Sandusky shares her 24 years of cancer survivorship from her point of view. She went through leukemia four times and tries to make sense of it all when looking back on her life. “Eye Won” by Jess Van Zeil: As Jess's dreams were beginning to come true, life dealt her a severe blow in the form of Conjunctival Ocular Melanoma. With her sassy blend of honesty and humor, Jess reveals what it takes to thrive in the face of adversity. “The Only One: A Memoir of Hope” by Wendy Moses: At the age of twelve, Wendy Moses had been diagnosed with three life-threatening diseases. Her story is one of fear, dishonesty, and solitude, but most of all of hope. A hope that maybe just one life will be changed by her experiences. “Hi...I'm Chuck!: A miraculous journey surviving stage four cancer with its lessons, growth and healing" by Chuck Keels: In 2015, a team of doctors diagnosed Keeps with stage four cancer and gave him only three months to live. This story documents his miraculous journey, his fight to survive, and a test of his faith. “Faith Like Skin: A journey of learning to display faith through the challenges of cancer, death, & broken relationships” by Hannah Dekker Keels: When faced with life's greatest trials, Hannah responded in a way that forever changed her life, her faith, and how others would view her. This book is an amazing tool for anyone facing challenges that feel like dead-ends.

In-demand job sectors for cancer survivors Finding suitable employment after cancer treatment is an important aspect of the survivorship journey. Fortunately, there are several job sectors that offer opportunities for cancer survivors to thrive. Healthcare and medical-related fields, such as patient advocacy, counseling, or working as a healthcare consultant, allow you to leverage your firsthand experience and provide support to others facing similar challenges. Nonprofit organizations focused on cancer research, advocacy, or patient support also offer rewarding career options. Additionally, remote or flexible work arrangements can be beneficial if you require flexibility in managing your health. Job search strategies When embarking on a job search as a cancer survivor, it's crucial to adopt effective strategies to maximize your chances of success. Networking is key. Reach out to your existing professional contacts, cancer support groups , or online communities to tap into hidden job opportunities and gain valuable insights. Online job boards, career websites, and professional social media platforms can also serve as valuable resources for finding relevant job openings. Consider attending job fairs or industry-specific events to connect directly with employers. Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your skills, accomplishments, and the unique perspective you bring as a cancer survivor. Caring about yourself in survivorship While searching for a job, don't forget to prioritize self-care and well-being. Managing your physical and mental health is crucial for long-term success. Create a routine that allows for proper rest, exercise, and nutritious meals. Practice stress-management techniques, such as meditation or mindfulness, to reduce anxiety and maintain emotional balance. Also, seek support from friends, family, or cancer support services to navigate any challenges or concerns that may arise during the job search process. Taking care of yourself will not only enhance your job search efforts but also contribute to your overall well-being as a survivor. There are diverse job opportunities available for cancer survivors . By exploring in-demand job sectors, implementing effective job search strategies, and prioritizing self-care, you can find fulfilling employment that aligns with your skills, interests, and survivorship journey. Remember to leverage your unique experiences and talents as a cancer survivor, as they can be valuable assets in the workplace. Embrace the job search process with resilience, confidence, and the belief that you have the strength to build a successful career after cancer.

Military enlistment criteria for cancer survivors Enlisting in the military is a noble pursuit for many individuals, including cancer survivors. However, the eligibility criteria for military service vary, and having a history of cancer may affect your ability to join. Each branch of the military has its own guidelines and considerations for applicants with a history of cancer. Factors such as the type of cancer, stage, treatment received , and duration of remission are taken into account. Generally, a longer period of remission and the absence of ongoing treatment are favorable for military enlistment. Alternative service option after cancer If military service is not an option due to your cancer history, there are alternative paths to consider. Many organizations offer opportunities for service and support to veterans and individuals affected by cancer. Nonprofit organizations, government agencies, and healthcare institutions often have roles that allow you to contribute your skills and experiences in a meaningful way. Volunteering or working in these sectors can provide a sense of purpose and the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others. After cancer health Whether or not you pursue military service, you have to prioritize your health as a cancer survivor. Regular medical check-ups , follow-up appointments, and ongoing monitoring are crucial to ensure your well-being and detect any potential recurrences or complications. Maintain a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise, a balanced diet , and proper self-care practices. Seek support from healthcare professionals, cancer support groups, or counseling services to address any physical or emotional challenges that may arise during your survivorship journey. Joining the military as a cancer survivor is a complex matter that depends on various factors and the specific requirements of each branch. It's important to research and consult with military recruiters to understand the eligibility criteria and any limitations related to your cancer history. If military service is not an option, explore alternative service opportunities where you can still contribute to the well-being of others. Regardless of your path, prioritize your health and well-being, and seek the necessary support to thrive as a cancer survivor.

In this picture: Dr. Chasse Bailey-Dorton , Medical Director, and Mariana Arnaut, CEO As we celebrate Cancer Research Day, an often-overlooked challenge remains: survivorship care. Survivorship is not just about surviving beyond a cancer diagnosis; it’s about patients being able to live fully in a world forever changed by it. Over the past decades, the number of cancer survivors has grown exponentially, an indicator to advancements in early detection and treatment. However, this progress brings new responsibilities for healthcare and society as a whole. Survivors face long-term physical, emotional, and mental challenges that often fall outside the scope of traditional oncology care. Research shows that many survivors experience ongoing health issues, ranging from fatigue to cognitive impairments. Survivors also have a higher risk of recurrence and chronic conditions. Unfortunately, our current healthcare system is not fully equipped to support these patients. There’s a shortage of oncologists and nurses for follow-ups, and primary care providers are unfamiliar with cancer’s complexities. This all contributes to gaps in care and highlights an urgent need to establish an innovative approach to survivorship within the cancer care continuum. At The After Cancer , we believe that survivorship care must be personalized, comprehensive and start at the point of diagnosis. Our approach focuses on harnessing technology and expert clinical insights to create care plans that evolve with each survivor's needs. By integrating cutting-edge technology and compassionate human touch, we aim to address the gaps that survivors face, ensuring they have access to comprehensive care and everyday support, not just on and off medical interventions. Survivorship care isn't just an add-on; it’s a necessity. Whether it’s addressing mental health, managing long-term side effects, or reducing the risk of recurrence, every survivor deserves a roadmap to a healthier future. Our mission is to make that survivorship care accessible for anyone, anywhere, anytime. The future of cancer care is about more than saving lives. It's about giving patients the tools to fully live, not just survive, after cancer. Survivorship is our priority. Is it yours? About Mariana Arnaut Mariana Arnaut is the CEO and Co-Founder of The After Cancer. She has a family history of different cancers (lung, melanoma, esophageal) and a background in digital & innovation. You can reach out to her at mariana@theaftercancer.com .

Prostate cancer remains the most common cancer diagnosis among men and the second most common diagnosis overall, with an estimated 300,000 new cases expected this year in the United States alone. Despite the high number of diagnoses, it remains one of the less fatal forms of cancer. The overall 5-year relative survival is 96.9%. But that wasn’t always the case. To highlight Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, let's dive deep into the discovery of the Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA), a test that has played a crucial role in shifting the landscape of prostate cancer detection and treatment. The Accidental Discovery of PSA: A Turning Point in Prostate Cancer Detection The history of PSA (prostate-specific antigen), now a key tool in prostate cancer detection, began with an unexpected finding. In the 1960s, researchers noted a protein present in prostate tissue and seminal fluid. In 1966, Mitsuwo Hara, a Japanese forensic scientist, identified this protein hoping it could serve as forensic evidence. However, Hara's work did not gain much traction beyond this initial discovery. In the 1970s, other scientists studying male infertility came across the same protein. Some even speculated that it might have cancer-fighting properties, but for over a decade, its potential role in cancer detection was largely ignored. From Fertility Research to Cancer Diagnosis It wasn’t until the early 1980s that a research team led by Dr. T. Ming Chu at Roswell Park Cancer Institute recognized the protein’s significance. They discovered that men with prostate cancer had elevated levels of PSA in their blood. This breakthrough revolutionized prostate cancer diagnosis, leading to FDA approval of the PSA test in 1986 for monitoring prostate cancer patients. By 1994, the test was approved for widespread early detection. What began as fertility research serendipitously became a cornerstone of cancer diagnostics, allowing for earlier identification and treatment of prostate cancer, significantly improving patient outcomes. Prostate Cancer Survival: The Power of Early Detection The impact of early detection on prostate cancer survival is undeniable. According to data from the SEER database, men diagnosed with localized or regional prostate cancer between 2013 and 2019 had a 5-year relative survival rate of over 99%. This impressive statistic shows that when prostate cancer is caught early, before it spreads beyond the prostate, treatment is highly successful, giving men an excellent chance of long-term survival.  The Impact of PSA Testing on Prostate Cancer Mortality The dramatic decrease in prostate cancer mortality over the last few decades can be attributed largely to the widespread use of PSA testing. Research supports the idea that PSA testing has caused a stage shift in how prostate cancer is diagnosed. Before the PSA test was introduced, many men were diagnosed in more advanced stages of the disease, when treatment options were limited, and survival rates are lower. With the advent of PSA screening, more men are diagnosed in earlier stages, when the disease is more treatable, and the chances of survival are significantly higher. This shift from late-stage detection to early-stage diagnosis has led to remarkable improvements in prognosis and contributed to the steady decline in prostate cancer mortality. The Future of PSA Testing and Beyond Although the PSA test has transformed prostate cancer care, its limitations continue to drive research toward more precise screening methods. Although the test has saved countless lives through early detection, it is not without its challenges. The PSA test has led to the detection of many slow-growing, non-lethal prostate cancers, raising concerns about overdiagnosis and overtreatment. Despite these concerns, the PSA test has remained the gold standard in prostate cancer screening for over 30 years.  Researchers are exploring new biomarkers, genomic testing, and imaging technologies to improve prostate cancer detection and better differentiate between aggressive and non-aggressive cancers. These advancements aim to reduce over-diagnosis and provide men with more accurate, personalized treatment options. Conclusion There is no single centralized clinical guideline for Prostate Cancer in the USA. The American Cancer Society recommends that men make an informed decision about prostate cancer screening in consultation with their healthcare provider. Key points include: Age for discussion: 50 for men at average risk 45 for men at high risk (e.g., African American men, or those with a first-degree relative diagnosed before 65) 40 for men at very high risk (more than one first-degree relative diagnosed at a young age) Screening tests: The PSA blood test is recommended, with a digital rectal exam (DRE) as an option. Timing of screenings: Every 2 years if PSA is less than 2.5 ng/mL Annually if PSA is 2.5 ng/mL or higher PSA is a powerful story of how early detection can save lives. The discovery of the PSA test revolutionized prostate cancer diagnosis, transforming it from a once-deadly disease into one where early detection offers a 99% chance of survival. As we observe Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, it's a reminder of the progress we've made and the importance of continued vigilance in screening and research. Written By Luis Guilherme Book a FREE call with us to learn more about The After Cancer and get guidance on your journey.

In a letter to Robert Hooke in 1675, Isaac Newton made his most famous statement: “If I have seen further it is by standing on the shoulders of Giants”. This statement captures the essence of scientific progress. Progressive discoveries made by the most tenacious of us. To highlight Gynaecological Cancer Awareness Month, we will dig into the history of one of these giants, whose discovery changed the landscape of women's health forever.      Overcoming Early Setbacks Dr. Georgios Papanikolaou, was a physician and researcher born in Greece in 1883. He moved to the United States in 1913. Initially struggling to make ends meet, the physician had to work in a carpet store. It took him a while until he was finally admitted to the staff at Cornell University’s medical college in New York City. But, Papanikolaou's early assignment was far from glamorous: he was tasked with studying the menstrual cycles of guinea pigs. Over time, however, this seemingly mundane work turned into a deep understanding of cervical cells. Papanikolaou meticulously observed how these cells changed in shape according to hormonal fluctuations, eventually allowing him to predict the exact stage of a guinea pig's menstrual cycle. Building on this knowledge, he began applying his techniques to human subjects. By analyzing the morphology of cells from the human uterus, he could also predict the stages of the menstrual cycle. Despite a decade of obsessive research, these findings offered little practical benefit, as simpler methods already existed for this purpose. Papanikolaou realized that the true potential of his work lay not in analyzing healthy cells but in identifying pathological conditions. He began collecting samples from women with various diseases. In the late 1920s, while examining cells from women with cervical cancer, he made a groundbreaking observation: cancerous cells could be detected in vaginal fluid. He published his results in 1928 in an article titled " New Cancer Diagnosis ". However, the medical community criticized his findings and even mocked his suggestion. They already had better methods for detecting cervical cancer. After two decades of obsessively analyzing cervical cells, his two findings were useless. But his perseverance was not over.    Identifying cancer before symptoms even appear Undeterred, Papanikolaou spent the next two decades refining his technique and gathering more evidence to support his hypothesis. His routine involved countless hours peering into a microscope, analyzing women’s vaginal smears with limited support. It wasn't until years later that he fully understood the profound implications of his work: his technique was not for detecting cancer but for identifying cancer before symptoms even appeared. Cervical cell analysis could detect cancerous cells years before any physical symptoms, allowing for much earlier intervention. His research culminated in the 1943 publication of " Diagnosis of Uterine Cancer by the Vaginal Smear. " This work provided the first comprehensive evidence that regular screening with the Pap test could detect cervical cancer at a pre-symptomatic stage, significantly improving the chances of successful treatment. Armed with this evidence, Papanikolaou convinced the National Cancer Institute to undertake the largest cancer prevention studies ever. 150,000 women from Shelby County, Tennessee, were screened using the Pap test. As a result, 555 cases of cervical cancer were detected, and more importantly, 557 asymptomatic women were found to have early-stage cervical cancer. The average age of these early-detected women was two decades younger than those diagnosed with advanced cancer, meaning the Pap test advanced their diagnosis by nearly 20 years, providing them with significantly better treatment outcomes. Long-lasting Impact on Women's Health The introduction of the Pap test marked a seismic shift in the fight against cervical cancer. Before its development, cervical cancer was one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among women, often diagnosed only when it was too late for effective treatment. The Pap test empowered women and healthcare providers by offering a simple, non-invasive method to detect abnormal cells early before they could develop into cancer. This early detection capability drastically reduced cervical cancer mortality rates and became a model for other cancer screening programs. However, the legacy of Georgios Papanikolaou’s discovery extends far beyond the Pap test itself. His work underscored the importance of early detection in cancer prevention, inspiring the introduction of other screening programs, such as the introduction of mammography.  As we reflect on the groundbreaking work of Dr. Georgios Papanikolaou and the life-saving potential of early detection, it's crucial to remember the importance of following recommended screening guidelines. Today, the Pap test is recommended every three years for women from 21 to 29, every five years for women from 29 to 65, and for women over 65, if they’re considered low-risk, screening may stop. Unfortunately, there are no screening tests for other GYN cancers, but genetic testing might help identify a predisposition to develop ovarian cancer. Regular screenings, such as the Pap test, OB-GYN visits, and genetic testing are vital tools of modern medicine to empower us to detect cancers early or even a predisposition to them. Early detection saves lives. Written By Luis Guilherme Book a FREE call with us to learn more about The After Cancer and get guidance on your journey.

As the CEO of The After Cancer, I’ve had the privilege of attending many events that celebrate cancer patients , but CancerCon 2024 in Austin, Texas, was something truly special. It wasn't just another conference; it was a vibrant, pulsating gathering of patients, survivors, caregivers, and medical professionals, from all walks of life but all united by a common bond—cancer. This year, our team had the opportunity to add a unique flavor to the event, something both irreverent and meaningful, that resonated with everyone who attended. Cards Against Cancer: Breaking the Ice with Laughter One of our contributions to CancerCon was a deck of cards we called Cards Against Cancer , a cheeky nod to the popular game Cards Against Humanity. The idea was born from our desire to bring humor into the lives of those who have faced the unimaginable. Cancer has a way of stripping away the lightness in life, so we wanted to offer a tool that would help people reclaim laughter, even if just for a few moments. We handed out these decks to every attendee, and the response was overwhelmingly positive. Laughter echoed as people huddled around our table, flipping through the cards, sharing the dark humor that only those who have been through the trenches could truly appreciate. It wasn’t just a game; it was a way to build connections, to say, "I understand," without having to say anything at all. The Kayak Adventure: A Moment of Peace and Perspective Before the hustle and bustle of the conference began, we joined a group of patients for a kayak adventure organized by First Descents  on the serene waters of the Colorado River in Austin. As we paddled under the warm Texas sun, surrounded by the beauty of the city, there was a sense of peace that settled over us. It was a moment to breathe, to reflect, and to appreciate the simple act of being alive. As the sun began to set, we gathered under the Congress Avenue Bridge to witness the famous Austin bats take flight. Watching thousands of bats swirl into the evening sky was a powerful reminder of the interconnectedness of life, of how even in the darkest moments, there is wonder. For many of us, it was the perfect way to start the weekend—grounding us in the present, in the here and now, before diving into the emotional depths of the conference. The Unicorn Poster: A Symbol of Defiance At our exhibitor booth, we displayed something that became our iconic image: a giant poster of a unicorn, with a twist—the unicorn's face was a defiant middle finger. It was our way of saying, "Not today, Cancer". This poster became a canvas for the emotions of everyone who walked by. Patients, survivors, and even healthcare providers took turns signing the poster, leaving messages of hope, strength, and sometimes just a simple "F*** cancer." By the end of the conference, the poster was covered with signatures and messages, each one a testament to the shared defiance of a community that refuses to be defined by this disease. The unicorn wasn’t just a quirky piece of art for the event, we'll keep it in our offices as a reminder of all the unique connections we had during CancerCon. Meals and Meaningful Conversations One of the most impactful aspects of CancerCon for me was the opportunity to share meals with some of the attendees. These weren’t just casual conversations; they were moments of profound connection. Over breakfast, lunch, and dinner, we shared our stories—the highs and lows, the victories and setbacks. There were tears, laughter, and moments of silence as we all grappled with the weight of our experiences. The act of sitting down together and opening up to one another created a bond that transcended the conference itself. These are the moments I will carry with me long after CancerCon has ended. Meeting the Nurses: The Unsung Heroes Another highlight was meeting the incredible nurses who had traveled from across the nation to attend CancerCon. These are the people who dedicate their lives to caring for others, often working long hours under immense pressure. The energy they brought to the conference was palpable. It was inspiring to hear their stories, to learn about the challenges they face, and the innovative ways they are finding to provide care. They are the backbone of the cancer community, and their presence at CancerCon was a powerful reminder of the importance of support systems in the journey through illness and recovery. An Inexplicable Buzz The energy at CancerCon, especially from the young adult attendees, was infectious. These are people who are facing a life-altering diagnosis at a time when they’re supposed to be building their futures. The conversations I had with them were eye-opening, as they shared the unique challenges they face: losing their identity, holding it together when everything is falling apart, and the jarring experience of receiving a diagnosis at a time when they’re supposed to be stepping into adulthood. We talked about the mentality shift that cancer forces upon you—how it strips away the trivial and forces you to focus on what truly matters. They spoke about the difficulty in relating to peers who haven’t had the same experiences, and the courage it takes to be vulnerable in a world that often doesn’t understand. As I reflect on the experience, I am filled with gratitude for the people I met, the stories I heard, and the connections I made. Cancer is a brutal adversary, but events like CancerCon remind us that we are not alone—that together, we can face anything, laugh in the face of fear, and, most importantly, live fully in the time we have.

Plants: The birthplace of medicines Before the nineteenth century, what we understood as medicine was mainly plant extracts, infusions and tinctures. So, during all the history of humankind, studying, classifying and understanding the effects of plants on our bodies has been among the most important activities. Pharmacopeias and encyclopedias on medicinal plants date back to ancient Egypt, with the Ebers Papyrus  from 1550 BC. Books such as the Historia Plantarum  by Theophrastus, Aristotle's successor, and De materia medica  by Dioscorides represented the pinnacle of Greek, and consequently medieval, medicine with descriptions of numerous herbal drugs.  Cancer plant-based medicines During the beginning of the nineteenth century, we were able to isolate the first active ingredients. The significance of plants became even more evident. Acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin), quinine and morphine are just some of the examples of drugs isolated from plants that were developed at the end of the 19th century. It took a little longer to find cancer drugs, as we only started seeing some form of drug therapy after the Second World War. But in the 1960s, the development of cancer drugs experienced a renaissance of discoveries with plant-based medicines. A tree that saved millions of lives of people with cancer A perfect example begins with the history of the European yew. The tree is well known throughout history. The Celts and Greeks named it the “tree of death”. Julius Caesar, in his book on the Gallic War, described a situation in which the king of a Celtic tribe, unwilling to fight in a war, used the extract of this tree to commit suicide. Over the course of history, we understood that there was something very poisonous in its bark and leaves.  But there is nothing more attractive to oncologists than a well dosed poison with the potential of killing cancer cells. So, the European yew was rediscovered in the early 1960s through a partnership between the National Cancer Institute and the US Department of Agriculture. In an era where pharmaceutical innovation was no different from the Ford’s factory model, the program coordinated by Dr. Jonathan Hartwell, established a systematic screening and isolation system that included more than 100,000 specimens. From a tree to a best-selling cancer drug Active ingredients called “Taxanes” were isolated from the bark of the European yew. After several chemical processes, this ingredient was going to become the best-selling cancer drug in history. 0.5 g of paclitaxel, also commercially known as Taxol, was extracted from 12 kg of dried yew trunk and bark, which corresponds to a yield of 0.004%. More than 2000 trees had to be felled to obtain 1 kg of paclitaxel. It took more than 20 years between improvements in the synthesis process and clinical trials to get to a commercially viable product. It was not until 1992 that the American company Bristol Myers Squibb submitted an application to the FDA, which was approved in 1994. To this day, paclitaxel and its derivatives such as dotaxel are still the first line treatment of various types of cancer such as ovarian cancer and non-small cell lung cancer. The tree described by Julius Caesar as poisonous and dangerous became one of the most important medicines in modern cancer treatment. The history of paclitaxel is not only the history of a revolutionary drug that has saved the lives of millions of cancer patients over the past decades, but also a great reminder of how important plants are in drug discovery. Keep an eye on your backyard, the next pharmaceutical blockbuster might be waiting there to be discovered. Written By Luis Guilherme Book a FREE call with us to learn more about The After Cancer and get guidance on your journey.

We are thrilled to share our experience at the Making Strides Charlotte event in October 2023, a significant milestone for The After Cancer as it marked our very first event participation. Making Strides Charlotte was an inspiring event organized by the American Cancer Society to raise awareness and funds for breast cancer research and support. Connecting with the Charlotte Area Breast Cancer Survivors Community The morning was filled with energy, hope, and an overwhelming sense of community. We had the incredible opportunity to meet many wonderful women, each with their own powerful stories of resilience and strength. These interactions were not only heartwarming but also highlighted the immense need for comprehensive support for cancer survivors, reinforcing our mission . Being in Charlotte allowed us to connect with locals and understand the unique needs of this vibrant community. Introducing The After Cancer Resources to the Charlotte based Cancer Survivors Our booth attracted numerous visitors who were eager to learn about our resources designed to help survivors manage treatment symptoms, adopt healthy behaviors, and reduce the risk of recurrence. The genuine interest and positive feedback we received were truly encouraging. Many of these amazing women decided to join our group sessions, where they can find a supportive community and access the care they need. Our presence in Charlotte underscored the importance of local engagement and support. Building a Supportive Community of Breast Cancer Survivors in Charlotte Attending Making Strides Charlotte 2023 was a profound experience for The After Cancer team. It allowed us to connect with survivors, share our vision, and lay the foundation for lasting relationships within the breast cancer community. We are grateful for the warm reception and look forward to continuing our journey, providing the support and resources survivors need to thrive. Our involvement in the Charlotte area has strengthened our commitment to making a difference locally and beyond. By participating in events like Making Strides Charlotte, The After Cancer aims to raise awareness and offer invaluable support to cancer survivors. We are excited to grow our presence in Charlotte and help more individuals on their journey to health and wellness.

We are excited to share our experience at the Run Jen Run event in Charlotte in March 2024. This event was another significant milestone for The After Cancer, marking our continued commitment to engaging with the community. Run Jen Run, an inspiring event dedicated to raising awareness and funds for cancer support services, provided an excellent platform for us to showcase our unique care model based on Integrative Oncology. Connecting with the Charlotte Community The day was filled with energy, enthusiasm, and an overwhelming sense of community. We had the incredible opportunity to meet many wonderful individuals from the Charlotte area, each with their own powerful stories of resilience and strength. These interactions were not only heartwarming but also underscored the immense need for comprehensive support for cancer survivors, reinforcing our mission . Engaging with the local community in Charlotte allowed us to better understand and address their unique needs. Introducing The After Cancer Resources to Cancer Survivors in the Charlotte area Our booth attracted numerous visitors eager to learn about our resources designed to help survivors manage treatment symptoms, adopt healthy behaviors, and reduce the risk of recurrence. The genuine interest and positive feedback we received were truly encouraging. Many of these amazing individuals decided to join our group sessions, where they can find a supportive community and access the personalized care they need. Our presence at Run Jen Run highlighted the importance of local engagement and support. Building a Supportive Community for Breast Cancer patients in Charlotte Attending the Run Jen Run event in Charlotte in March 2024 was a profound experience for The After Cancer team. It allowed us to connect with survivors, share our vision, and lay the foundation for lasting relationships within the cancer community. We are grateful for the warm reception and look forward to continuing our journey, providing the support and resources survivors need to thrive. Our involvement in the Charlotte area has strengthened our commitment to making a difference locally and beyond. By participating in events like Run Jen Run, The After Cancer aims to raise awareness and offer invaluable support to cancer survivors. We are excited to grow our presence in Charlotte and help more individuals on their journey to health and wellness.

We are excited to share our experience at the Get Your Rear in Gear event in Charlotte in March 2024, where The After Cancer proudly served as one of the sponsors. This event, dedicated to raising awareness and funds for colon cancer research and support, provided an excellent platform for us to showcase our unique care model based on Integrative Oncology. Engaging with the Charlotte Community of Colorectal Cancer Survivors The day was filled with energy, enthusiasm, and a strong sense of community. We had the incredible opportunity to meet many wonderful individuals from the Charlotte area, each with their own powerful stories of resilience and strength. These interactions were not only heartwarming but also underscored the immense need for comprehensive support for cancer survivors, reinforcing our mission . Engaging with the local community in Charlotte allowed us to better understand and address their unique needs. Introducing The After Cancer Resources to Cancer Survivors in the Charlotte area Our booth attracted numerous visitors eager to learn about our resources designed to help survivors manage treatment symptoms, adopt healthy behaviors , and reduce the risk of recurrence. The genuine interest and positive feedback we received were truly encouraging. Many of these amazing individuals decided to join our group sessions, where they can find a supportive community and access the personalized care they need. Our presence at Get Your Rear in Gear highlighted the importance of local engagement and support. Building a Supportive Community for Colorectal Cancer Patients in Charlotte Sponsoring the Get Your Rear in Gear event in Charlotte in March 2024 was a profound experience for The After Cancer team. It allowed us to connect with survivors, share our vision, and lay the foundation for lasting relationships within the cancer community. We are grateful for the warm reception and look forward to continuing our journey, providing the support and resources survivors need to thrive. Our involvement in the Charlotte area has strengthened our commitment to making a difference locally and beyond. By participating in and sponsoring events like Get Your Rear in Gear, The After Cancer aims to raise awareness and offer invaluable support to cancer survivors. We are excited to grow our presence in Charlotte and help more individuals on their journey to health and wellness.