October 11th is World Hospice and Palliative Care Day. This year’s theme, Achieving the Promise: Universal Access to Palliative Care, is a reminder that every person deserves comfort, dignity, and support while facing a serious illness. Many people still have questions about what palliative care and hospice really mean and how they can help.  To […]

What you choose to wear to cancer treatment might seem like a minor decision, but these small details can make a big difference in your comfort during your appointment. Choosing the right outfit, as well as the right fabric and the right fit, are little decisions that can make hours-long appointments just a little bit […]

September is Pain Awareness Month, a global initiative that shines a light on the impact of pain and the ongoing research on pain management. For people living with cancer, pain may come from the tumor itself, tests, or treatments. No matter the source, cancer-related pain can be debilitating, disrupting sleep, appetite, mood, and overall quality […]

How cancer treatment affects your sense of taste Your relationship with food during and after cancer treatment might change unexpectedly if you experience an altered sense of taste or even a loss of taste altogether. The foods you used to love might taste bland or unrecognizable, leading you to search for new ways to cope […]

Side effects from radiation therapy for cancer can occur at any time during treatment, but they can also continue after your treatment has finished. For some, these side effects can become chronic and affect the body from both a physical and emotional standpoint. Figuring out the best way to manage these side effects can be […]

Diarrhea can be an unpleasant side effect of cancer treatment. While it might feel uncomfortable to bring diarrhea up with your care team, it’s important to address it with your doctor to combat potential dehydration, irritation to the skin, or any related underlying issues. The National Cancer Institute (NIH) defines diarrhea as a loose bowel […]

An oncology social worker (OSW) is a licensed counselor who’s there to help you and your loved ones who are affected by cancer. They have a Masters Degree in Social Work (MSW) and continuing education training in cancer care, so they can offer emotional and more practical support, helping you and your caregiver cope with […]

Whether you’re newly diagnosed with cancer, going through treatment, or approaching survivorship, it’s important to always pay close attention to your dental health. While you understandably may feel like dealing with your dentist is the last thing you feel like prioritizing, your oncology team may advise you to involve your dentist after a cancer diagnosis. […]

For many cancer patients, radiation or chemotherapy can cause side effects ranging from pain to inflammation and additional stressors can make navigating treatment difficult emotionally and physically. Red light therapy, also known as low-level laser therapy or photobiomodulation, has shown promise as an additional therapy for symptom management. If your care team has recommended red […]

If you’re experiencing changes in appetite during cancer treatment, you’re not alone. Cancer-related anorexia, which is a loss of appetite driven by the disease or its treatments, affects up to 80% of advanced cancer patients. Unlike anorexia nervosa, cancer-related anorexia isn’t about body image; it’s a physical and metabolic challenge that can make eating feel […]

Whether you’re in active treatment or in survivorship, it’s important to take the time for activities that can improve both your physical health and your emotional well-being after a cancer diagnosis. Dedicating time during your day to take a quick walk is a great option with great health benefits, as long as your doctor says […]

When you’re going through any type of chemotherapy for cancer, there are precautions you should take to ensure your family and/or caregivers are as safe as possible from exposure during your treatment. Chemotherapy not only increases your chances for infection, but can put others who have daily contact or live in your home at higher […]