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In a video shared with The After Cancer, patient advocate and former primary caregiver, Chris Schuler adds his voice to the many advocating for greater urgency and awareness about Brain Cancer and Brain Tumor Awareness Month. He recognizes all those whose lives have been touched by the disease – current patients, survivors, and caregivers - and acknowledges the tireless efforts of those who are working to help fight it – doctors, researchers, donors, and investors. He concludes that Brain Cancer and Brain Tumor Awareness Month is an opportunity for us all to come together in order to affect real change. “No matter how you recognize this month – through advocacy, survival, or quiet reflection – you are not forgotten, you are not alone. We need everyone pulling in the same direction and with the same persistence and unwavering focus if we expect to see change.” Chris is a staunch brain cancer awareness advocate. He was the primary caregiver to his late Dad, Donald Schuler, who was diagnosed with GBM in July 2021. He works closely with organizations across the globe, amplifying their critical work and building key relationships to further improve outcomes for patients. He's currently working with Cure Brain Cancer Foundation, an Australian non-profit dedicated to improving outcomes in brain cancer. He's a Venture Partner with Varia Ventures, working to raise awareness for emerging venture funds dedicated to uncovering and funding innovative discoveries to improve brain health. He also works closely with SageMedic, a precision oncology start-up supporting patients looking for the most effective treatment for cancer. Could you use a hand in your cancer journey? Book a free call with our survivorship guide!

Joe Bullock was diagnosed with stage 3b colorectal cancer in 2018. He's the COO of Man Up to Cancer and a Community Manager at COLONTOWN. I have lived through many different phases of this cancer journey After almost 6 years of being NED ( NO Evidence of Disease) from Stage 3B Colorectal Cancer. To be able to say 'I'm relieved' to have survived cancer would be an understatement. Although my life definitely has not been the same since being diagnosed with cancer. I have lived through many different phases of this cancer journey from being a person diagnosed with cancer, then battling the depression caused by it, to surviving it. It can even be quite embarrassing talking about butt stuff all the time, especially for men. As a cancer patient, your life becomes pretty exposed and then you are forced to face your own mortality. It can be all-consuming and overwhelming at times. Over the years I have trained to take part in many activities in the cancer community. I have learned to be an advocate for it, and tried to be a supportive friend to other survivors in treatment. Over the last five years, I have struggled to find the balance in life between being a cancer patient, a survivor, an advocate and to be able to live in the aftermath of it all. Once you are diagnosed with cancer your days and nights are spent focusing on your treatment and survivorship from this disease no matter the type of cancer. Then you find yourself worrying about the others you come in contact with who have heard those same three words 'You Have Cancer' and you hope they survive it as well. Over time you can find yourself caught up in the endless feelings of guilt because so many of the ones that you have supported over the last few years have been taken by this disease. I recently found myself battling the same type of depression as I did in treatment because I just don't feel I can be enough or find my worthiness as a survivor of cancer. A couple of years before I was diagnosed with cancer I found myself in that 'middle age' time in my life. I was pretty restless and I was even down right bored with myself . I would go for long walks and find myself hoping that the universe would just shake my life up a bit. Don't get me wrong I have a great life with a loving wife and a couple of wonderful kids anyone would be proud of as a parent. I just felt a bit unfulfilled at the time. As is typical for a lot of older middle-aged men. My male friendships had faded over time and I had been trying to find more people to connect with just to have a few new friendships. You might call it a midlife crisis but you should be very careful what you wish for in this life. Those life 'shake-ups' might take you to some very unexpected places. Especially being diagnosed with cancer but I have to say it brought me some of the best friends I have ever had in my life. Being a cancer caregiver and patient A few years ago my Dad was diagnosed with early onset prostate cancer. I only found out because at the time we both had the same primary care physician. I would learn of his diagnosis during a routine physical with the same doctor who had brought it up as part of my family history. My Dad wasn't crazy at the time that I had found out about his cancer diagnosis in this way and he was upset that I knew about his diagnosis. He was hoping to keep silent so as not to worry the family. As time progressed I would soon learn that my Dad's prostate cancer had gotten to the point in his disease where I would have to become one of his main caregivers. He had refused treatment early in his diagnosis and had allowed the cancer to run its course. The pain from the progression had become so unbearable for him to the point he was abusing over-the-counter pain medicine to deal with the pain. One night while he was going to the bathroom he fell and broke his hip. At first, he refused to go to the hospital to try to repair the injury because I think he was worried he would never return home. Unfortunately, this would become true because his abuse of the pain meds was causing his organs to fail. I would spend the next couple of weeks caring for him at a local hospice center until he passed away. All the while caring for my Dad I would start to have symptoms related to a colorectal cancer diagnosis. There were general symptoms like blood in my stool, changes in my bowel movements, and some unexplained fatigue. After a routine colonoscopy, I would find out that I had stage 3b colorectal cancer. I would be facing the same reluctance to get treatment as my Dad did when he was diagnosed. The difference was I chose to listen to my doctors and pursue treatment. My Dad told me right before he died that he regretted the decision not to seek treatment to prolong his life. I would think of him often when I was going through treatment for my own cancer. I just wish he had been more open to treatment early on instead of letting the cancer quickly fade him. A few months after being cancer free a friend of mine was going to the cancer center alone for his chemotherapy treatments. When I found this out I quickly offered to go and sit with him. It was odd being in the infusion room and listening to all those sounds of the monitors as he prepared for chemotherapy. I felt the hairs raise up on my arms as I realized I had been sitting in that same spot myself a couple of months ago waiting for chemotherapy. For my friend being he had metastatic stage IV colon cancer his journey was much longer than mine in that infusion chair. About a year later it would not be the cancer that failed him but his enormous heart would give up and cause him to give up the fight. An advocate for men battling cancer Being a caregiver for my Dad and being diagnosed with cancer myself I realized that the universe was setting me up to be an advocate for men battling cancer. The day I visited my friend going through chemo treatments I realized I had a greater purpose in my survivorship from my own cancer. The years following I would realize my own path moving forward as I began to accept I was cured from my own cancer. Today most of my best friends are cancer survivors and a few of them I have even helped to walk home because they left this earth because of the disease. It has been an honor to be in that space with them and I continue to be. I keep their stories alive in my advocacy work today. Over the last few years I have been involved in leading a facebook group called ‘The Howling Place Group’ that was created by one of my best friends Trevor Maxwell as a part of his manuptocancer.org website. We affectionately call ourselves a ‘Wolfpack’ because we ‘howl’ about cancer everyday in the group. It is a group for men only so they have a safe place to share their personal journeys with cancer. The goal from the beginning is to help men to understand they do not have to fight cancer alone or need to live in the self-isolation that it may bring with it. Last year Trevor created the Man Up To Cancer nonprofit of which I am currently serving as the Chief Operating officer. It has given me an even greater opportunity to serve in the cancer community. I won’t let it fade me In the last five years I have had to gain a better understanding of a work-life balance. Being an advocate in the cancer space can easily become overwhelming because the needs of the community can become suffocating at times. For my own mental health, I have had to learn to step back and delegate responsibilities to others that want to help. I have known friends to walk away from offering support because they couldn’t find this kind of balance in their lives as survivors. I believe cancer didn’t take me for a reason and I won’t let it fade me from offering the support I love giving today to so many in the cancer space. It’s why I always say "Cancer might be done with me but I’m not done with cancer." Book a FREE call with a survivorship mentor to talk about your experience with colorectal cancer

Dan “Dry Dock” Shockley is a retired Navy, Operation Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom veteran. He is a 12-year hereditary colon cancer syndrome WARRIOR and 3-year pancreatic cancer pre-vivor. “Challenges like my AFAP diagnosis are opportunities, not obstacles that can’t be overcome.“ It was during a routine colonoscopy at age 51 in 2012 that they found over 100 polyps embedded throughout my colon, rectum and anus. After gene sequencing DNA testing I was diagnosed with Attenuated Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (AFAP), a subtype of Familial Adenomatous Polyposis. This rare genetic condition is an autosomal dominant germline mutation. Dr. Henry T. Lynch, the founding father of hereditary cancer research, is credited with the discovery of AFAP. It's estimated to affect less than .03 percent of the worldwide population. Being intrigued by this diagnosis I took things in stages. First, by reading about the mutation to better understand this disease, then I had the surgery to remove my colon, rectum and anus and create a permanent ileostomy. Second, embracing life as an ostomate. Thirdly, understanding this rare mutation and the impact it will have on my life.​ During my 22-year Navy career, I learned that mental and physical strength are important attributes, especially in the face of personal or professional adversity. My training has taught me that being informed, prepared and maintaining a positive attitude while committed to the mission is instrumental in achieving success. ​“I also learned early on to prepare for the worst and hope for the best.“ There is an old cliché: “You can lead a horse to water, but you cannot make it drink.” I once heard there is a flip side to this saying. You can influence a horse to drink the water by providing it salt on the way. When I think of this expression it serves as a constant reminder to me that there are many references in the Bible pertaining to salt. In numerous contexts, it is used metaphorically to be a sign of permanence, loyalty, fidelity, value, purification, durability and usefulness. Of these, the contexts of durability and usefulness have had a direct impact in my life. When faced with challenges, both professionally, personally and physically, I maintain a positive attitude and utilize numerous resources that allow me to better understand the situation. Challenges like my AFAP diagnosis are opportunities, not obstacles that can’t be overcome. Moving forward, I have been able to overcome this medical challenge, adapt to my new life style and press on with my life with a business as usual approach. I maintain the same attitude today and share it every opportunity I have. I draw my strength being an example of the "salt of the earth” and realize the type of difference I know I can make in my life. I truly believe attitude determines the ability for a positive transition. My daily life is the reason for my durability and usefulness as the salt of the earth. “​​I have always had a great sense of faith – and feel that everything is for a purpose…this is my purpose. I’ve always had faith in my family, my fellow comrades, and my medical team.“ I feel blessed to have been able to live a life with purpose. Worrying did not cause my condition and worrying will not make it go away. As mentioned earlier, I look at having AFAP as a challenge rather than an obstacle. My mindset has been and continues to be not to think about the things I am unable to control, such as medical conditions. What I can control is my attitude – which has always been and will remain positive. My positive attitude had a direct impact on my faith, adapting to life as an ostomate, and my purpose in life. That said, I’ve adopted four words I reflect on daily: Attitude; FAITH; ADAPT and Purpose. Attitude Maintaining a positive attitude is instrumental in overcoming adversity FAITH Full Assurance Influenced Through Hope (An acronym I created after my diagnosis.) ADAPT ​Attitude Determines the Ability for a Positive Transformation (An acronym I created shortly after my ostomy surgery.) Purpose My purpose is to educate medical students and professionals about hereditary colon cancer syndromes and the importance of early detection continuing the legacy of Dr. Henry T. Lynch, in hopes of saving lives. It's been said that faith is eminence of the unseen. Example: We can see the tree branches swaying in the breeze. However, we’re unable to see the breeze, just the effect of it. My positive attitude and strong faith had a direct impact on my ability to adapt to life as an ostomate with a rare disease. My mantra is a positive spin on a bleak diagnosis: Always Forge Ahead with a Purpose. Stay positive, keep the faith and find your purpose. “My positive attitude and strong faith had a direct impact on my ability to adapt to life as an ostomate with a rare disease.“ In closing, here’s my analogy of life and baseball. What do they both have in common?​Neither has a time limit. If the baseball game goes into extra innings, I think of it as free baseball. My life as a colon cancer WARRIOR is in extra innings. Therefore, I’m enjoying free baseball. I have come to realize when life throws us a curve, it is a personal choice on how you handle it. That's my story and I’m sticking to it. Always Forge Ahead with a Purpose! California Senator Roger Niello authored Senate Concurrent Resolution-109: designating March as CRC Awareness Month in California. Dan and some of his colleagues were invited to the Capitol by Senator Niello when he introduced this measure on the Senate Floor. It passed unanimously, 34-0. Book a FREE call with a survivorship mentor to talk about your experience with colorectal cancer

Arnel Greenberg is originally from New York, and now resides in Tega Cay, South Carolina. She describes herself as"a grateful, 67 year-old, breast cancer survivor." Life as I knew it would never be the same As the anniversary of my breast cancer diagnosis approached and then quietly passed, I reflected on the rocky slopes and the gentle paths of my journey thus far. I thought back to the hurdles I had cleared and contemplated some future hurdles still ahead for me. To recap my journey, a biopsy in July 2022 confirmed my triple-negative IDC, and life as I knew it would never be the same. Still teaching first grade, I started off my school year believing that keeping busy would keep my mind off my recent diagnosis. A whirlwind of multiple doctor visits and lab tests each week put that plan on hold. I thought it best to take a leave of absence for the first quarter and return to my classroom by the start of the second quarter following my September lumpectomy. But after being in the classroom for over 35 years, my Higher Power had a different plan for me, a new path for me to go down. My genetics testing finally came back as BRCA 1+. As luck would have it, my triple-negative diagnosis was not as good as I thought it sounded either. Since I had no hormone receptors, my only course of treatment would be six months of chemotherapy. Needless to say, I could not return to school that year and I would officially close the book on my teaching career and retire. On November 1st, my port was implanted for my first chemo infusion November 4th. Ringing the bell isn't the end of the journey I finally got to “ring the bell” on April 14, 2023, but my journey doesn’t end there. Now cancer-free, I met with my team of oncologists and surgeons to discuss my ‘high-risk’ genetic mutations and weigh out my options to reduce the risk of a recurrence or new breast or gynecological cancer developing. We decided my best course of action would be a DMX, hopefully avoiding radiation. In August 2023, I underwent a prophylactic double mastectomy and began breast reconstruction with expanders. By October 2023, it was decided that my chemo port would not be used for future surgeries and could finally be surgically removed. In November, I underwent a prophylactic hysterectomy and recuperated until my December reconstruction surgery. Everything was moving along according to plan, until I hit a rocky slope, as multiple complications occurred from what should have been a basic exchange surgery. That is where I am today… but I maintain a positive outlook following a second opinion from my new surgeon, confident that he can repair the complications that my original surgeon refused to acknowledge. I’m actually looking forward to my May 7th surgery! Gentle paths along the way The "gentle paths" along my journey that I mentioned earlier have been all the amazing people I have met along the way. My support system... composed of my fiancé, my children and grandsons, my brothers and sisters-in-law, my nieces and nephews, and my friends and neighbors, who have been there for me every step of the way. At this time, I MUST share how blessed I am and acknowledge all the “Previvors”, "Survivors" & "Thrivers" from everyone on the Supportive Oncology team at the Levine Cancer Institute, the Pink House in Charlotte, and the NothingPink Community in Rock Hill. It was through NothingPink that I connected with The After Cancer group of amazing survivors sharing their experiences and expertise. These special friendships forged, encourage me daily. These women and men have taught me how to handle life with grace, compassion, humor, and an inner strength I didn't realize I possessed. I learned to embrace each experience and be grateful for it! So now, as I physically, mentally, and emotionally prepare for my upcoming surgery, I thank you for allowing me to share my journey with you. Could you use a hand in your cancer journey? Book a free call with our survivorship mentor!

Dr. Lisa Jervis, MD, is part of The After Cancer's Care Team. She's board-certified in both Obstetrics/Gynecology and Integrative Medicine. Vaginal Dryness (Genitourinary syndrome of menopause) Vaginal dryness and discomfort are very common symptoms/concerns among many women of all ages. These symptoms are frequently due to hormonal changes that lead to lower estrogen levels—whether from natural menopause or cancer treatment-induced menopause. Decreased estrogen levels affect the cells and tissues in the genital tract in a way that thins out these linings making them drier, thinner, and more fragile which may cause bleeding and/or discomfort. Sometimes this process causes soreness and irritation which is not necessarily related to sexual activity. It can also cause an annoying vaginal discharge. Even if other symptoms of menopause go away at some point, the vaginal symptoms may persist throughout life. Although not everyone is affected by these symptoms, genitourinary syndrome of menopause remains the leading cause of problems related to sexual health among female cancer survivors. Non-hormonal options There are many options available for this which are available over the counter or online Lubricants are recommended and used for sexual activity. They can range from natural oils (vegetable, coconut, or olive oil) to a wide variety of commercially produced options. Some of these contain additional ingredients to enhance sexual pleasure. Vaginal moisturizing products are used on a more regular basis, usually 2 or more times per week depending on the product.  These products work by providing a protective film or attracting more water into the vaginal tissue.  This process can potentially help with lubrication and elasticity of the vaginal tissue, and it can lead to improvement of the pH of the environment.  Examples of these products are things that are polycarbophil based (like "Replens") or contain hyaluronic acid (like Revaree/Hyalogyn)  They are available over the counter but may be costly over time.  Both types have been tested in scientific studies and have been proven to be effective for some people.  There does not seem to be a strong advantage of one type over another. Compounding pharmacies may be able to make non-hormonal vaginal suppositories containing ingredients such as Cocoa Butter, Vitamin E and Vitamin A. Ask your Oncologist or GYN about help with prescribing these if interested. Hormonal options Many patients with a history of cancer may be candidates for topically placed vaginal estrogens, even patients with breast cancer! This is something that would need to be discussed with your oncologist. The estrogen can be in the form of a vaginally placed ring, creams or tablets. Vaginal estrogen has NOT been shown to raise estrogen levels above the normal postmenopausal range*. Further, a meta-analysis published in 2019 demonstrated a lack of systemic absorption of estrogen during vaginal estrogen therapy**. In patients with Triple Negative breast cancers—this is very likely to be an effective and safe option. It may (or may not) be more complicated if there are Estrogen/Progesterone receptors positive in the cancer. A very large cohort study just published in Obstetrics & Gynecology in 2023 showed that vaginal estrogen therapy did not increase recurrence rates of breast cancer in survivors even with a history of estrogen receptor-positive cancer***. The exception in the study was a slight increased recurrence when patients were also on Aromatase Inhibitors (Femara, Arimidex). Overall—the evidence is showing more and more that vaginal estrogens may be a safe and proven effective option for breast cancer survivors. Always have this discussion with your Oncologist and your Gynecologist. There is also a vaginally inserted treatment called Intrarosa, which is actually DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone). This gets converted into testosterone and estrogen within the vaginal cells. IntraRosa has been studied in patients with a history of breast cancer, and it has been very promising with regards to safety and effectiveness****. LASER technology Another option that has been available for the past decade, is more invasive and utilizes use of office based LASER technology. One of these is the “Mona Lisa Touch”. Some patients have great success with these procedures, although some do not. The procedure can be fairly costly and may not be covered by insurance. The procedure also usually needs to be repeated over time. Remember all of this is highly individualized—but there is a lot of room for help and hope with regards to managing your symptoms. Want some more personalized support? Book a visit with a member of our Care Team 1* Laing AJ, Newson L, Simon JA. “Individual Benefits and Risks of Intravaginal Estrogen and Systemic Testosterone in the Management of Women in the Menopause, with a Discussion of any Associated Risks for Cancer Development” Cancer J 2022;28:196-203 2**Pavlovic’ RT, Jankovic’ SM, Milovanovic’ JR, Stefanovic’ S, Folic’ M, Milovanovic’ O. “The Safety of Local Hormonal Treatment for Vulvovaginal Atrophy in Women with Estrogen Receptor-Positive Breast Cancer who are on Adjuvant Aromatase Inhibitor Therapy, meta analysis” Clin Breast Cancer 2019; 19:e731-40 3***Agrawal P, Singh S, Able C, Dumas K, Kohn J, Kohn T, Clifton M. “Safety of Vaginal Estrogen Therapy for Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause in Women With a History of Breast Cancer” Obstet Gynecol 2023; 142:660-8 4****Casiano Evans E, Hobson D, Aschkenazi S, et al “Nonestrogen Therapies for Treatment of Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause” Obstet Gynecol 2023; 142:555-70

Donna McMillan is a former Hospice Social Worker, a former Elder Law Attorney, and an ovarian cancer survivor. Check out her website. Cancer survivors and worry As cancer survivors whether we intend to or not, we spend a lot of time worrying.  Is treatment working, will I get a recurrence/is this nagging innocuous symptom the sign of a recurrence, will my insurance cover my treatments/medications, what if I lose my job/health insurance, can I afford cancer, will my family be okay. The list goes on and on and sometimes cycles non-stop.  Since so much of our life after cancer is out of our control, we often spend a lot of time trying to manage the things that are in our control. And what we often forget in the process is to live the life that we fought so hard to keep. Que the importance of play. In our fast-paced lives we don’t prioritize play Play is for children. Play is not productive. Play is for when we have checked off all those things on our to-do list. Play has no purpose. It’s not getting us to a goal, so we inevitably don’t take the time to schedule play. Because it’s just not as important as all the other things we think we must do. Here’s why we should prioritize it.  Play can improve our overall well-being by reducing stress. And we all know that reducing stress is one of the key components in an anti-cancer lifestyle.  What an easy way to do something that brings a little bit of joy into our lives and that can also improve our health. So exactly what is play when you are an adult Play can be described as something fun or recreational. But a lot of what we do for recreation as an adult has some pressure associated with it – think of the competitiveness of golf, tennis, or pickleball. What I am talking about here is doing something aimlessly, for the pure joy of doing it, without expectation. Can’t come up with any ideas?  Start by channeling what you loved to do as a child, what made you happy and joyful. Even if it is just for a few moments because those few moments of micro joys can make a huge improvement on your outlook and overall mental state. For me, swinging on a swing is one thing that easily come to mind and brings on those feelings of childlike joy and freedom. Play is different for everyone What one person thinks of as play may be very different from another. Strategic board games might be fun for some and dreaded by others. Likewise, karaoke or a dance party.  Play can include others, or it can be a solo activity like writing or painting with no pressure to share your creation with anyone. You will have to figure out what play means for you.  And because we are adults and because we have the regular pressures of day-to-day life and the added pressure that comes with being a cancer survivor, you might have to search a little deeper and do a trial and error to figure out what play means to you, but trust me, it will be worth it. If you are an introvert like me, grab a bottle of bubbles and blow, by yourself, for just a few minutes. Watch the bubbles glisten in the sun and float in the wind.  Take out those watercolors, get some crayons and paper and draw, paint, whatever your heart desires.  Write for the sake of writing, not for showing anyone else. More of an extrovert?  Schedule a night of board games, or karaoke with your friends. It doesn’t have to cost much. You Tube has a huge selection of karaoke songs to choose from.  And as even this introvert will tell you, a fun night of rolling the dice in Yahtzee can bring on a lot of laughter. Adding some fun back into your life The main thing here is to add some fun and play back into your life.  Something for no other reason than just the joy of doing it.  Creat Laugh.  Dance. Sing.  Wherever you think there might be joy, do it.  We didn’t fight so hard for this life not to enjoy it. Stress reduction aside, connection and meaning can be found in those little micro moments of joy, that, if we wait to schedule for when we have time, we may totally miss out on.  Do it for you. You’ve earned it. Schedule a FREE call with our Survivorship Mentor

Taffie Lynn Butters is a board-certified health coach at The After Cancer. She's a breast cancer survivor and is passionate about helping others recovering from cancer with lifestyle interventions. Toxic environments Here’s the truth, most of us live in a toxic environment. Not because we want to, but because most of the products for our homes are not made with our health in mind. As a culture we are being marketed to with the intention of brand recognition, fast and cheap, or disposable. Unfortunately, none of which are necessarily with prevention of disease as a focus. In this blog, I will go over some simple steps to help you detoxify your environment to make it a safer healthier place to live. While we cannot completely eliminate all toxins, small changes add up, and can make a big impact! Information is power One of the first places to start when detoxifying your environment for cancer prevention is to have a trusted resource. The Environmental Working Group has a mission: “To empower you with breakthrough research to make informed choices and live a healthy life in a healthy environment.” (www.ewg.org) This amazing organization has been shining the light on harmful practices and products since 1993. EWG offers free databases and consumer guides to help you make informed choices about food, water, personal products that can easily be accessed on their website, or in a convenient app for your phone. You will also find advice on home products and current legislation efforts to change harmful practices. The biggest problem with chemicals and other synthetic substances in our environment is that they can mimic and often disrupt the natural influence that hormones have on our body, which can lead to the development of diseases. A recent Newsweek report revealed that a new study in the journal “Environmental Health Perspectives” searched through multiple government databases are discovered evidence that 921 chemicals point toward the promotion and development of breast cancer alone. This disturbing news is triggering a concern to layout a path forward for manufacturers to eliminate these chemicals, but this process will take time. What you can do to detoxify So, what can we do now to create a safe and healthy environment for ourselves and our families? The first step is not to panic and start small. It’s a good idea to trade out products slowly or as they run out. While replacing items can be expensive the cost to your health in the long run makes it worthwhile. Be creative. Many items can be purchased at Ikea, Amazon, and even Walmart. The idea is to reduce your toxic load, and remember it is impossible to completely eliminate every exposure. Let’s take a look room by room of what small steps you can start taking today! Kitchen The kitchen is one of the best places to start when detoxifying your environment because it’s where we feed and nourish our body. Here are some items to consider: Trade all plastic for glass or stainless steel – plastic has PFAS and can infiltrate your bloodstream with micro-plastics. This includes plastic forks, cups, and cutting boards Use wood or stainless steel utensils Use stainless steel or glass water bottles Replace any “non-stick” cookware  - with stainless steel or ceramic Use non-bleached waxed paper instead of foil Limit or avoid microwave use Use unscented trash bags Opt for unscented soaps and detergents (ewg resource for trusted brands) Laundry Swap dryer sheets for wool dryer balls Use clean detergent (ewg resource) Bedroom Place phone in EMF safe container or remove when charging Opt for sprays and candles scented with essential oils Opt for hard floor surfaces Choose natural fiber sheets, organic when possible Bathroom Use non-toxic cleaners (ewg resource) Use natural fiber towels Choose clean personal products (ewg resource) Living Room Choose candles scented with essential oils instead of fragrances. (fragrances are not regulated and are mostly synthetic and made with chemicals) Sweep or vacuum often Leave your shoes at the door – many viruses and bacteria come into homes on your shoes! Use a quality air filter Home Décor Look for low VOC paints and green products when possible. Opt for natural hard floor surfaces Avoid “stain resistant and water repellant” coatings Creating a non-toxic environment can be fun and rewarding. Ask yourself next time you make a purchase will this reduce my toxic load? If the answer is yes, you are one step closer to a healthy home! Enjoy the journey! Check Taffie Lynn Butters' profile and book your first visit

Donna McMillan is a former Hospice Social Worker, a former Elder Law Attorney, and an ovarian cancer survivor. Check out her website. We've all had those days We have all had those days when things just don’t seem to be going right. As a cancer survivor, for me it’s often a day when the side effects of my maintenance medication are a little more pronounced, a little more in the forefront, a little too hard to ignore. Other times, it could be my anxiety creeping in, like if in and I haven’t been feeling well. We all know that that anxiety that surrounds scans and the worries of a recurrence are real. We can try as hard as we can to dismiss them or ignore them, but sometimes they just won’t go away. So, what do you do? How to boost your mood For me, a surefire way to boost my mood is to get outside and take a walk. I get an extra boost when it’s a sunny day, but the reality is, it doesn’t really matter. A cloudy day has its own form of beauty. I just need to get outside. Adding a walk to it is an easy way to boost your mood (i.e., reduce stress) and do another thing that’s good for the body (move). Part of living an anticancer lifestyle includes exercise. Now exercise can be hard as a cancer survivor. You may be at a point in your journey where you just barely have the energy to get through the day to day, or take care of your personal needs, and exercise seems truly monumental. Or your life is filled and busy with work, family, to-do lists, and you don’t think you can fit it in the time for exercise. But what about a simple walk? Walking is exercise right? It's being outside that counts Here's the thing, I’m not talking about a long meandering walk in the forest. Now don’t get me wrong, those long meandering walks and connecting to nature in that way can be wonderful gift and inspiring. But a mood lifting walk can be as simple as walking to the mailbox to get your mail. Walking out of your apartment to the corner and back. Taking it slow. Relishing in the sun or gazing at the cloud formations. Feeling the breeze, hot or cold on your face. Noticing if the air is moist and humid or dry. Listening for the birds. And if you’re truly not able to walk, then just stand outside and take it all in. Breathe. And right there you have a second element to an anticancer lifestyle, a little bit of mindfulness and stress reduction. What about a night walk? Want to try something different? Go outside at night, stare up at the stars and watch and listen. There are different sounds at night, or maybe no sounds at all. Everything looks different in the dark. Sometimes scarier, sometimes more magical. Can you hear the owls, the cars, the dogs barking? People laughing? What does your nighttime scape include? Is it different tonight from last night? A weekend versus a weekday? We can fill our minds with so many other things when we are outside and being present in the moment instead of in living in our head thinking about what scares us and what doesn’t feel right. Getting outside and maybe even adding a little walk helps boost our mood and gives us a moment of mindfulness and stress reduction without really trying. A win for us and our bodies. Sometimes we just need a reminder... Being outside helps me remember that I am part of this great big universe. Awe in the expansiveness and beauty. A reminder that there is value in just being. No matter what you can’t do, you can go outside, whatever that outside looks like for you, and let your body and mind remember the connectedness we all share. Even when we are alone, we are not alone. We are part of the greater whole of just being. Sometimes I need to be reminded of that. Being outside helps me remember. Schedule a FREE call with our Survivorship Mentor

Amanda is a Mother, Dentist, Coach, and Breast Cancer survivor. She owned her own dental practice for 10 years and now works part-time as a dentist while spending time with her blended family and helping others thrive. It seemed as if I had finally overcome the hurdle After selling my practice and building for a nice profit I could feel the breeze of freedom in my heart and I was on the high of hope that comes with big changes. I was blessed with two wonderful children and had cut off the albatross of ownership finally taking care of some needs that had been put aside. This included paying off my car, fixing some issues that had been put off due to cost at the house, getting dry eye laser treatments, finally fixing a few health nuisances I had ignored, and taking some fun trips. Then I got the call. One of my dearest friends was diagnosed with breast cancer and had just started chemotherapy. Flying across the country to sit with her in the infusion room I realized how time had flown. Surviving COVID as a dental practice owner, finally getting through a divorce that took 6 years to end…. When did I have my last mammogram? Yes, it was negative when I had mine while we were shut down for COVID, but is it every year or every three years I am due? "Breasties" In 2023 my friend and I ended up becoming “Breasties”. It started with the radiologist coming into the room immediately after my first mammogram. There were 4 lesions and we needed a biopsy. The biopsy came back positive but with good news. We thought all I would need was a double mastectomy and reconstruction. However, the path report came back a few days after my mastectomy and there was invasion into the lymph node. Now a tumor panel agreed I would face chemo which involved 7 months out of work battling cancer and waiting for reconstruction. Full-time job of fighting cancer I had finally started working as an associate and I had to step away and take on the full-time job of fighting cancer. Sitting in the chemo chair facing a myriad of uncertainties throughout the process, I came to the shaking conclusion that I could not possibly emotionally handle working in dentistry again. This is similar to the burnout or mid-career crisis experience so many face in the medical world. I knew that I could never live my life the same again and that started with how I balanced my inner purpose with my clinical practice. I am now on the journey of recreating my life, my career, and how I feel peace and joy. Most of all I am growing the connections and relationships that foster joy on this journey in life. I have found a job doing dental work part time and I am working on some creative opportunities in my life while spending more time with my family. Grateful for the chains that have been broken and the joy to come Breast cancer was like a shot to the heart giving me a second chance in life. Having support groups and other pink friends is an important part of creating a strong foundation for life after cancer. I am grateful for the chains that have been broken and the joy to come. Are you a cancer patient or survivor? Book a free call with our survivorship mentor!

Jesse Dillon is a stage 4B Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Tonsil survivor, and a dedicated patient advocate, championing increased awareness and the importance of early detection. Stage 4B squamous cell carcinoma echoed in my ears Not too long ago, I was asked by the team at The After Cancer to provide a testimonial of my battle with Head and Neck cancer, specifically Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Tonsil. This month, they asked me to write another guest blog for Head and Neck Cancer Awareness month which happens every April, and I enthusiastically agreed, because before I was diagnosed in 2019, I was painfully unaware of what Head and Neck cancer was. As I thought about what I wanted to share with the world, my thoughts went back to the last time I met with my oncologist in August of last year, but before I go there, let me recap my story for those of you who are not familiar. In the late summer of 2019, I started having a sore throat and an earache, symptoms that I mistook as a cold or really bad allergies. However, as weeks passed, the sore throat persisted, swallowing became a challenge, and a relentless ear pain set in. After about 8 weeks of enduring the pain, I decided to see my doctor. After numerous doctor visits and tests, the words "stage 4B squamous cell carcinoma" echoed in my ears. The 'C' word carried a weight that seemed to compress time itself. The gravity of the situation was overwhelming, and the 'C' word carried a weight that seemed to compress time itself. The diagnosis process was a whirlwind, that I still don’t remember at all with the exception of a few fuzzy details that pop into my head from time to time. There are many decisions that have to be made and appointments that need to be set. It’s a chaotic time that no matter how much you brace yourself, there is no way to prepare for. My treatment regimen was aggressive: 35 radiation treatments and three rounds of cisplatin chemotherapy. Each session more painful than the last. Each day my body growing weaker. By February 2021, I emerged on the other side with an official diagnosis: no evidence of disease. Little did I know, the worst was yet to come. Now, after almost 5 years post diagnosis and 3 years post treatment, neuropathy, cervical dystonia, hearing loss, and dry mouth have made their way into my daily life. Daily reminders of the battle I endured. But even with debilitating headaches and rotting teeth caused by massive doses of radiation, I was feeling pretty vindicated. I had beat cancer. Not IF but WHEN cancer will return Then last August, I was talking to my oncologist and going through the process of transitioning from being in active surveillance with his team to preventative screening with my Primary Care Physician, he said something that has stuck with me even more than the day that he told me that I had cancer. He told me that it wasn’t a question of IF my cancer would return, but rather WHEN it will return. My cancer was brought on by an HPV infection that I probably picked up in my teenage years. While most people will never have any complications from an HPV infection, while others will develop cancer at some point in their life and we aren’t sure why. I love my oncologist. I owe that man my life. It was his open and honest approach to my treatment that helped me get to NED, and although the news of the potential return of my cancer was extremely tough to hear, I appreciated his honesty so I could remain vigilant and listen to my body. My mission to help save anyone else from having to endure what I have I have now made it my mission to help save anyone else from having to endure what I have had to. I help people to identify the symptoms of Head and Neck Cancer to help save lives. My journey underscores the critical importance of recognizing the signs of head and neck cancer. Early detection can mean the difference between life and death, and understanding these symptoms can lead to timely and effective treatment. A self-examination is easy and should be done at least every 3 months. Step 1: Check the Neck for Lumps Use your hands to palpate your neck. Feel for any lumps or swollen lymph nodes. Step 2: Inspect the Lips and Cheeks Pull your upper lip up and your lower lip down to check for sores or color changes. Use your fingers to feel the inside of your mouth for lumps or abnormalities. Step 3: Examine the Gums Gently bite down and look at your gums for any sores or unusual colorations. Feel around the gums for any bumps or irregularities. Step 4: Open Mouth and Look Inside Stick out your tongue and check the top, bottom, and sides for any swellings or ulcers. Look at the back of your throat, the roof of your mouth, and under the tongue using a flashlight and mirror⁴. Additional Tips: Compare one side to the other for symmetry. Look for red or white patches, lumps, or bumps that are different on one side compared to the other. If you discover any abnormalities that persist for more than two weeks or get larger, contact your healthcare provider or dentist⁴. Remember, this self-exam should be done regularly, and any persistent changes should be evaluated by a professional. It's an important habit that can lead to early detection and treatment. I demo the exam here: https://youtu.be/-VbqGeY5JOY?si=iV4oMXYGToDsUiB8&t=12 Here are the Symptoms to look out for: Persistent Cough: A cough that doesn't go away may be a sign of throat cancer. Changes in Voice: Hoarseness or not speaking clearly can be a symptom. Difficulty Swallowing: This may extend to breathing difficulties in more severe cases. Ear Pain: Persistent pain in the ear can be associated with head and neck cancers. Lumps or Sores: A lump in the throat or a sore that doesn't heal should be checked. Sore Throat: A sore throat that persists could be a warning sign. Weight Loss: Unexplained weight loss can sometimes be associated with cancer. These symptoms can also be caused by other, less serious conditions, but it's important to consult a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis if you experience any of them. In addition to these symptoms, certain factors can increase the risk of developing head and neck cancer, such as tobacco use (both smoking and chewing), alcohol abuse, infection with human papillomavirus (HPV), a diet lacking in fruits and vegetables, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and a family history of cancer. If you're experiencing any of these symptoms or have risk factors, it's essential to seek medical advice. Early intervention is key to managing and treating head and neck cancer effectively. Are you a cancer patient or survivor? Book a free call with our survivorship mentor!

Caregiver Mental Wellness, Inc. empowers caregivers to thrive and find balance in their caregiving journey, envisioning a world where caregivers’ mental and emotional well-being is prioritized, and where compassionate support and understanding is readily available in families, among friends, in communities, and our workforce. Long Distance or Distance Caregiving: In an era characterized by globalization and mobility, the traditional concept of caregiving has expanded beyond geographical boundaries. Distance caregiving has emerged as a significant aspect of contemporary family dynamics, challenging individuals to provide support and care for their loved ones from afar. This paradigm shift is fueled by factors such as career opportunities, educational pursuits, and the general dispersal of families across the globe. Distance caregiving, also known as long-distance caregiving, refers to the scenario in which individuals provide support and care for their family members or friends who live in a location that is not accessible. This type of caregiving is not limited to a particular age group or health condition; it spans various situations, including aging parents, supporting a friend with a chronic illness, or ensuring the well-being of a sibling or child living in a different city. The concept of distance caregiving is on the rise. Limited research indicates that caregivers in such situations are grappling with notable anxiety and distress, prompting the need for nursing intervention. Historically, healthcare providers have not effectively addressed the specific needs of these distant caregivers or integrated them into family-centered, quality cancer care. The omission of their involvement in the patient's care plan and the adbsence of supportive interventions inadvertently complicate medical decision-making in clinical settings, especially during challenging phases of the patient's illness trajectory. This includes the difficulties of results of scans for cancer status, chemotherapy treatments, treatments for other health conditions, and the devastating report of the advancement or return of cancer the family thought was improving. This article discusses some of the distant caregiver’s challenges, the possible complex emotions experienced by the distant caregiver, steps that may be taken to alleviate these feelings, and strategies that may support a smoother process for all participants involved in the care recipient’s journey. Distant Caregivers’ Challenges: Part-time distant caregivers often coordinate with health professionals or other family caregivers living near the recipient. These distance caregivers face numerous challenges including, but not limited to: Limited Physical Presence: Their inability to be physically present for day-to-day care, emergencies, or routine activities. This absence may lead to guilt, helplessness, and frustration for the distant caregiver. Communication Barriers: Communication becomes crucial. Time zone differences, busy schedules, and technological challenges may hinder regular updates and check-ins. The caregiver may have meetings at work and cannot be on Zoom or telephone calls to stay in the loop on the care of the loved one. Misunderstandings may arise due to the lack of in-person conversations and non-verbal communication. Navigating Healthcare Systems: It is hard enough for a local caregiver, much less a distant caregiver, to coordinate medical care, and it can be complex at a distance, especially when dealing with different healthcare systems, insurance policies, and providers. Obtaining accurate information about the care recipient, tracking care, scheduling appointments, or coordinating cancer treatments can be a daunting task. Sustaining Their Other Responsibilities in Life: These distant caregivers have multiple responsibilities in life that may include a stressful job, other children in their home to take care of, a special needs child, nurturing their partner, maintaining their social activities and friend relationships, and last, but not least, maintaining their own well-being. Caregivers’ Complex Emotions: Distance caregivers often undergo a range of complex emotions as they navigate the challenges of providing support and care from afar. The emotional landscape can be multifaceted, influenced by various factors such as the nature and seriousness of the cancer patient’s condition, the caregiver’s personal circumstances in their immediate family and their work situation, and the effectiveness of the caregiving arrangements and collaboration with the other caregiver’s and/or health professionals’ team. Nursing interventions have the potential to alleviate the unnecessary suffering and distress experienced by distance caregivers who often feel disconnected from the oncology team. A crucial step involves inviting the distant caregiver to be part of the care plan, laying the groundwork for a trusting relationship, and offering essential emotional support. Providing educational resources and guiding them to relevant websites can offer both practical and emotional support from a distance. Innovative technology is an additional connection when distant caregivers cannot physically visit the patient, including the mother, father, sibling, adult child, or close friend who would like to participate in a physician's office or treatment visits. By equipping these distant family members with knowledge about their role and facilitating much-needed support and collaboration, they can become valuable support for the cancer patient and local caregivers, ensuring success in their part-time caregiving responsibilities. Some common emotions caregivers may feel include: Guilt for being unable to be present with hands-on care, attend medical appointments or treatments or handle daily responsibilities. They feel the guilt of not doing enough and stress that the primary local caregivers may be overburdened with their loved one’s care responsibilities. Other friends and family members need to consider that the local caregiver deals with the situation daily. They should have a clearer understanding of the needs and situation involving the care recipient. Distant caregivers should be compassionate and cooperative to keep a sustainable and effective working relationship and collaboration with care partners. Helplessness for the inability to immediately respond to emergencies or be there for their loved ones in times of need can create a sense of helplessness and frustration. Worrying about the well-being of the care recipient, especially when dealing with health issues or aging, can lead to persistent worry and anxiety. Worrying that local caregivers may feel that the distant caregiver is not carrying their responsibility. For example, the aging parent is ill, and siblings living near the care recipient must carry the day-to-day responsibility of the parent's care. When scheduling conflicts or misunderstandings occur, they feel frustrated when trying to coordinate care and communicate effectively with other caregivers and health professionals. Distant caregivers may experience a sense of isolation, as they may not have the same level of in-person support and shared experience as the local caregiver. Juggling the demands of distance caregiving with personal, professional, and other family responsibilities can create a constant sense of imbalance and stress. The emotional toll of caregiving, even from a distance, as a part-time caregiver can lead to exhaustion as caregivers navigate complex emotions over an extended period. Some distant caregivers may feel relief and satisfaction despite the challenges. Caregivers may also experience moments of relief and satisfaction when they successfully coordinate care, address issues remotely, coordinate effectively with other local caregivers, or witness positive outcomes for their loved ones. The distant caregiver may feel more connection and fulfillment, maintaining emotional connection through regular communication with the local caregivers, the care recipient, and the health professionals, even when distance is a barrier. It is important that distant caregivers remain adaptable. They often need to be highly adaptable, adjusting their plans and strategies as their loved one's circumstances change, which can evoke a mix of emotions such as frustration or sadness. Trying to balance personal and professional commitments with caregiving responsibilities may lead to stress, anxiety, depression, sadness, and possibly caregiver burnout. It is important to recognize that emotions can vary widely among distance caregivers depending on the situation, including, but not limited to, the health status of the loved one, relationship dynamics within the family unit, communication and collaboration with the care recipient, healthcare team, and other caregivers who may be family or friends. It is essential to recognize that emotions vary widely among distance caregivers, and individual experiences are unique. Open communication, support networks, and prioritizing self-care and well-being are crucial to coping with the emotional challenges of providing care from a distance. Strategies for Successful Distance Caregiving: It requires forethought and planning regarding communication, utilizing technology, building a support network, and planning visits strategically. By doing this, it establishes a workable, stress-reducing strategy within the distant caregiver's life and family situation, including their job. Within this strategy, attempt to sustain a harmonious collaboration with the caregivers who reside near the care recipient and the healthcare team or partners. Communication: Establish clear communication channels to foster open, honest communication with the care recipient and other involved family members. Get regular updates and have discussions that can help all participants understand evolving needs and challenges on this journey. Utilizing technology for virtual communication might include video calls, messaging apps, and emails, which provide a means to stay connected and engaged and reduce feelings of isolation. Utilize Technology: Coordinate with the healthcare provider and caregivers who reside with your loved one to discover what technology might be available for healthcare management, such as online medical records, appointment times, healthcare team names, and locations. Consider using telehealth consultations and possibly medication management apps. Set up smart home devices for remote monitoring and assistance. Of course, all these options may not be feasible because every situation is different. Build a Support Network: Depending on the situation, and as appropriate, connect with local friends, neighbors, and professional caregivers to provide on-site support for the loved one. Investigate and utilize local resources, such as home care services and support groups, possibly including your loved ones' friends at their faith-based and community organizations. Do research to find out about all the social services in the care recipient’s community. The healthcare organization can provide information on social workers. These resources can offer practical assistance, information, and emotional support to the care recipient and their caregivers. Plan Visits Strategically: In coordination with your loved one's local support team, coordinate visits to maximize the impact. Plan around significant events, medical appointments, or times when you, as the distant caregiver, can be most helpful to the care recipient and their local support network. When planning visits, consider coinciding with important events, medical appointments, or times of increased need. The local caregiver may need a break or getaway. You can support the local caregiver(s) by managing the care and being with your loved one while they rejuvenate. This time will allow you to assess the situation, provide hands-on support, and make necessary adjustments to the caregiving plan in coordination with the local caregiver and care team. Conclusion Distance caregiving is a complex and evolving aspect of modern life, requiring adaptability, communication, understanding, proactive planning, and collaboration with the care recipients’ support network. By acknowledging the challenges and implementing effective strategies, distance caregivers can provide valuable support and maintain a meaningful connection with their loved ones, even across vast geographical distances. As society continues to evolve, so must our approach to caregiving, ensuring that distance does not diminish the quality of care and support we can offer to those we hold dear. Coping with the emotional challenges of distance caregiving is an ongoing process that requires adaptability and resilience. The journey may be smoother by planning, discussing responsibilities to assign to the local caregivers and the distant caregivers, communicating with compassion and understanding, and seeking support and available local resources. By implementing these strategies and seeking support from both local and remote networks, caregivers can better navigate the complexities of providing care from afar. Could you use a hand in your cancer journey? Book a free call with our survivorship mentor!

Lori Drummond is a Registered Dietitian at The After Cancer Surviving cancer is a journey Surviving any cancer -- including colon cancer -- is a journey marked by perseverance, resilience, strength, and the unwavering determination to overcome one of life's greatest challenges. While medical treatments play a vital role in battling this disease, the journey toward recovery extends far beyond the hospital or clinic walls. Nutrition plays a crucial role in supporting colon cancer survivors as they rebuild their health and vitality during conventional therapies and beyond. Nutrition plays a crucial role It’s recommended that all cancer patients undergo nutritional screening to ensure that those likely to experience unwanted weight loss are identified and can be directed toward and guided by a nutrition professional such as a dietitian or nutritionist with advanced practice training in oncology. The journey through colon cancer treatment can take a toll on the body, impacting everything from appetite to digestion. Chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery can all affect the body's ability to absorb nutrients and maintain optimal health. Common side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite can further complicate nutritional intake, making it challenging for survivors to meet their body's needs. To bridge the gap during the transition phase which is immediately after treatment to the predisposition phase (surveillance stage), it remains important for a survivor to continue to eat well, get those essential nutrients, and optimize health with the right nutrition – to stay on track for the long run. It’s so vital that it should be considered a life-long commitment or simply a permanent lifestyle change. This will rebuild strength and stamina but also support the body's immune system and promote overall well-being including good mental health while reducing the risk of recurrence. How nutrition intervention supports colon cancer Here are some important ways in which nutrition intervention supports colon cancer: Supporting Digestive Health: Survivors might experience changes in digestion or in bowel habits.  Consuming a diet rich in vegetables, fruit, and whole grains – all providing fiber -- can help improve digestion and restore bowel regularity, and potentially prevent complications such as constipation or diarrhea. Boosting Immune Function: Assuring a diet that provides sufficient vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and phytonutrients can help strengthen the immune system, which is essential for fighting infections.  Eating the colors of the rainbow including foods such as dark green leafy vegetables, red or purple berries, orange citrus fruit, and nuts and seeds are loaded with immune-boosting nutrients that play a critical role in the body’s defense mechanisms. Maintaining Healthy Weight: Obesity is a well-known risk factor associated with the development of many cancers. Therefore, recommendations are to work toward a healthy weight.  On the other hand, if weight loss during treatment results in becoming underweight, the goal is to obtain a healthy weight for your body height and type. That’s where a personalized plan created together with a nutrition professional is so important. Incorporating physical activity, if able, of 150 minutes per week of moderate exercise is recommended, or staying as physically active as your situation allows. Reducing Inflammation: Chronic inflammation has been linked to an increased risk of cancer recurrence and other health issues. Consuming a diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods can calm inflammation. These foods include herbs, spices, and healthy fats such as found in cold-water fish and olives. Others include a variety of fruits and vegetables while avoiding processed or fast food and sugar-laden beverages. Promoting Emotional Well-Being: We all know that eating isn’t only about physical health, it’s an emotional and social experience. Preparing and sharing nutritious meals with loved ones can provide enjoyment, comfort, connection, and a sense of normalcy following a challenging and stressful time. Certain foods such as dark chocolate and leafy greens have been shown to support mood and mental health. This is equally so, as all these foods mentioned above support a healthy microbiome which has been shown to improve mood. All this to help survivors cope with the emotional toll of their cancer journey. Nutrition-related recommendations for colon cancer survivors should provide personalized healthy nutrition-related guidance that includes specific measures that can help manage or prevent co-morbid conditions commonly present in cancer survivors. Seeking support from healthcare professionals, survivors can optimize their health and well-being in numerous ways as they embark on the journey toward a brighter, healthier future. Check out Lori's profile and book a FREE intro call