LETTER FROM THE EDITOR:
Happy New Year! As we head into 2023, I am so excited to feature Ethan Zohn as our issue 17 cover star. Ethan puts a new spin on the word “survivor,” as he’s a two-time cancer thriver as well as the winner of one of the toughest seasons of the reality TV show of that name. On page 40, he shares his captivating and, at times, heart-wrenching story with a sincerity and grace that both encourages and motivates. And his past as a professional athlete is the perfect backdrop for issue 17 — the Fitness Issue.
The Fitness Issue is rife with inspiring stories from other cancer warriors, like bodybuilder Erica Langley, a Chicago native and hometown hero; as well as information about amazing organizations such as the Aunt Sister Project, a nonprofit providing free or low-cost exercise classes for cancer thrivers (p. 36); the rise of cannabis use for post-workout recovery (p. 50); and delicious recipes to keep you warm through the winter season (p. 16). I’m also excited for you to learn about how psychedelic drugs are being used as treatment for people with cancer — issue 17 features the first in a new, four-part installment on the rise of psychedelic therapy (p. 24), detailing the history of psychedelic drug research in the United States and how they can help alleviate some of the emotional effects of cancer and its treatment.
Our subtheme for the winter issue is artificial intelligence, and we’ve rounded up some cutting-edge technologies used in hospitals and other care settings that are changing the way cancer is diagnosed and treated (p. 53).
As I make plans for the year ahead, I hope to continue being able to serve our amazing cancer community, and my wish for you all is to enjoy another year filled with good health and happiness.
Natalia Espinosa
