We are proud to present our spotlight stories featuring inspiring journeys from cancer warriors, innovators, and those living their lives amidst their biggest struggle.
Breast cancer is killing Black women at alarmingly higher rates than their white counterparts. Ricki Fairley’s breast cancer diagnosis set her on a path to demanding better for Black women.
Marbled walls, glowing white shelves and splashes of pink throughout make Livia Boutique a picture of modern elegance. Featuring products uniquely tailored to the cancer experience, this safe space in the heart of New York City offers breast cancer warriors and thrivers a way to connect, relax and support each other throughout their journeys.
Dr. Diane Reidy-Lagunes of Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center combines her training as an oncologist and her passion for helping others by hosting the informative and inspirational “Cancer Straight Talk” podcast.
With flavors such as mango and crème brûlée, vaping among youth and teens was once seen as something enjoyable and trendy. Now, society is recognizing the more sinister side of the brands marketing these potentially harmful products. cW sits down with Dr. Faiz Bhora, chief of thoracic surgery at Hackensack Meridian Health, to discuss this pernicious threat.
Stand Up To Cancer’s new CDO, Stephanie Herron, inspires innovation to help break the model of fundraising for cancer research.
Roots & Wings Foundation raises awareness about metastatic breast cancer (MBC), connecting those diagnosed with integrative therapies to help them live longer, healthier lives.
Kathy Hren has been a stage IV, ALK-positive lung cancer warrior for almost 12 years. Through life-prolonging medicine and art therapy in the form of quilting, she has been able to live a life she is grateful for.
While Stacie Fleming was living out her fashion-fueled dreams in Paris, France, strange symptoms called her back to the U.S. The diagnosis? Late-stage ovarian cancer. But Stacie refused to allow cancer to consume her identity, and she used treatment sessions as an opportunity to don a show-stopping outfit and strut her stuff on the “chemo catwalk.” The results? Nurturing her creative spirit allowed her to ultimately find healing.
Ramzi Mansour and his wife, Nicole Mansour, showcase 42 women’s strength, beauty and vulnerability in their photography book, “Resilience.”
These six artists have all been touched by cancer — as supporters, survivors or thrivers. Here, they share creative works inspired by the cancer experience, each one utterly unique but with a shared message of perseverance and hope.
Our supporters are our biggest allies. Over on our Instagram @cancerwellmag, we asked questions about how to show support to yourself and your loved ones through a cancer diagnosis. Read on for some thoughts from our followers.
Stupid Cancer offers mental health discussion series.
Susan Herndon, BSN, RN shares the how and why of getting the body ready for cancer treatment.
In March’s A Common Thread column, Melissa Berry chats with Lori Goldstein, founder of LOGO by Lori Goldstein, about her clothing line and the amazing work she does for breast cancer.
Cancer Wellness spoke with the founders of six wildly different initiatives — from a nonprofit, to a mobile app, to a virtual happy hour — that were all inspired by their individual cancer journeys.
Maintaining good physical fitness can lead to more positive outcomes for people with cancer, but the dearth of resources can be a significant roadblock for some — the Aunt Sister Project is looking to change that. Whether you’re new to fitness or a seasoned athlete, this nonprofit provides free or low-cost exercise classes, for all fitness levels, for cancer thrivers and survivors everywhere.
LIVESTRONG at the YMCA is a free program, operating in 42 states, that helps cancer survivors find and maintain an active lifestyle.
Michelle Segar, a researcher and health coach, offers insight about sustainable behavior changes in her latest book, “The Joy Choice.”
Erica Langley’s breast cancer diagnosis came just weeks before her first bodybuilding competition. With no family history of cancer and a sparkling record of clean living, she was blindsided by her diagnosis. But she would soon find her physical and mental strength — honed during rigorous training — would be an asset during treatment and help her come back stronger than ever.
Cooling temperatures got you down? Warm up this winter with self-care tips from “happiness expert” Peggy Sullivan.
Over on our Instagram, @cancerwellmag, we asked cW readers a question: What is the first thing you did when you were declared cancer-free? Read on for their responses.
Part one of cW’s Psychedelic Series examines the history of research into psychedelic drugs in the United States and considers why psychedelic therapy may be an ideal option to help relieve some cancer patients’ end-of-life depression and anxiety.
Robb Leone, president and cofounder of BIÂN, follows up with Cancer Wellness about his journey with leukemia and the many things for which he’s grateful.
The Ruth Cheatham Foundation helps students succeed beyond a cancer diagnosis.
Actress Miranda McKeon uses her social media platform to encourage open and honest discussions about the mental and physical aspects of cancer, breaking stigmas about breast cancer and demystifying a diagnosis to her loyal followers, which number more than a million.
Cancer Wellness is proud to present the first installment of our new series in partnership with Bright Pink. FORCE is the first (and largest) nonprofit focused on providing education and resources to the hereditary cancer community, while championing efforts to widen access to genetic testing, cancer screenings and lifesaving treatments and procedures — regardless of income or insurance status.
Ethan Zohn became a household name after winning season three of “Survivor,” one of America’s longest-running reality TV shows, but his million-dollar win pales in comparison to surviving cancer — not once, but twice.
Tamron Little was diagnosed with peritoneal mesothelioma at just 21 years old. Despite balancing new motherhood, an arduous cancer treatment schedule and a rollercoaster ride of emotions, it would take almost a decade post-treatment for Little to find the mental health resources she needed when first diagnosed. In this Slice of Life essay, Little reminds us to listen not only to our bodies, but also to our minds.
Part Three of Mandi Chambless’ “Tomorrow I’ll Know” finds Mandi at the doctor’s office — tense and anxious beyond belief, waiting for test results for her latest ovarian cancer screening. Could her biggest fear be coming true? Are her recent symptoms a result of cancer recurrence, or are her anxieties getting the best of her?
In her new memoir, “Not in Vain, A Promise Kept,” Melissa Mullamphy chronicles her experience as caregiver following her mother’s cancer diagnosis — a time marked by misdiagnosis, difficult treatments and inept doctors — and provides real-life details for how to advocate for yourself or your loved ones amidst a cancer diagnosis.
We hold the power to help heal in our hands. Physical touch can act as a healing modality to help people with cancer feel supported and loved while reducing stress and anxiety.
Sophie Tsairis’ doctors warned that her childhood cancer treatment could lead to early menopause, but every passing decade pushed this fact further from her mind. That is, until her early thirties, when she was forced to confront the reason behind a body and mind she was struggling to recognize.
Whitney Reynolds sits down with Dr. Kathleen Goss to talk stories of cancer, commitment and care.
Sara Machnik was diagnosed with breast cancer in the middle of the pandemic — a cancer diagnosis is isolating enough, but COVID protocols made it difficult to connect with other warriors, friends and family. But then she started writing poetry, and Sara was able to face the darkness and turn her experience into something beautiful.
Part two of the cW Slice of Life essay series, Part Two of Mandi Chambless’ “Tomorrow I’ll Know” takes readers through her cancer journey, exploring the fears that seem insurmountable, the grief of losing sight of past selves and the anxieties of not knowing what is to come — emotions that are real, raw and deserving of recognition.
Lauren Lopriore learns that the cancer journey doesn’t end once treatment is over.
The National LGBT Cancer Network breaks down health disparities for the queer community. Their work becomes especially important during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, when “Pink-tober” can alienate those it is trying to help.
In this new series called cW: Slices of Life, check out the journeys of cancer warriors who are taking things day by day. Read on for the first in a three-part story titled “Tomorrow I’ll Know” by Mandi Chambless.
Johnny Bench of the Cincinnati Reds is “on the ball” when it comes to skin cancer. Cancer Wellness talks with Bench about his skin cancer diagnosis and how “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”
Communities downwind of nuclear testing sites bear the brunt of negative health outcomes from radiation exposure.
A sudden diagnosis of stage IV lung cancer left Diane Hura uncertain about her future, but a drug for ALK-positive lung cancers inspired hope for a second chance.
Alina Mehrle was busy building an empire when she was diagnosed with aggressive triple-positive breast cancer. But it was her cancer journey that would go on to inspire an entirely new pursuit — the much-loved and award-winning skincare brand AMEŌN.
Abby Lee Miller of the popular show “Dance Moms” hasn’t let a cancer diagnosis stop her from living life to the fullest.
Robb Leone, president and co-founder of the health and lifestyle club, BIÂN, incorporates integrative healing methods to help manage his cancer while taking charge of his mental health.
Sometimes your oncologist just isn’t the right fit—and it’s OK to find someone else who is.
Putting pen to paper can unlock a multitude of mindful benefits.
Bill C. Potts is a five-time cancer survivor. In our latest essay, Bill shares five invaluable lessons from his experiences with cancer.
Nick Aiello entered uncharted territory after a testicular cancer diagnosis at 28 and exited with a toolbox to chase a more fulfilling life.
Rick Bartlett, prostate cancer thriver, hopes revolutionary advancements in cancer care will encourage more men to take their health seriously.
After being treated for the wrong cancer for over a year, renowned pianist and composer Michael Wolff was diagnosed with a rare and untreatable cancer. Now, he’s in remission.
Holly Hammond was only 28 when diagnosed with TNBC. Now, she’s redefining “terminal.”
It’s 2022 and I am so excited to spread some of the hope we’ve found on “The Whitney Reynolds Show.” This spring, we’re sharing the story of BIÂN CEO and kidney cancer warrior Joseph Fisher. Because he listened to his body, early detection potentially saved his life.
Renee Ridgeley pushed for the inclusion of “The Simpsons” uniboob character Dr. Wendy Sage, but her breast cancer advocacy goes even further than that.
Renowned comic book artist J.G. Jones is using his artistic talent to spread the word about blood cancer.
Breast cancer treatment didn’t slow Christine Whelchel down as her long-awaited dream came true: competing on “Jeopardy!” multiple times.
Nathan Adrian’s lifetime of competitive swimming prepared him for many challenges, but facing testicular cancer was a plunge that the Olympic swimmer and medalist never thought he’d take.
Arlene Karole’s career in educating educators served her well during her breast cancer diagnosis.
For Joni Rodgers, cancer wasn’t a gift—it was a crucible.
What do you owe the public when it comes to your cancer journey?
Breast cancer warrior Yoli Origel details founding Cancer Kinship, an organization connecting warriors and thrivers for empowerment through human connection.
Through its Breathe Now Wellness Retreats, Dear Jack Foundation helps bring couples closer together after cancer treatment.
Lauren Lopriore has turned her cancer journey into an opportunity to provide care and comfort to other warriors through her business Liv & Let.
While Latinx communities may not experience cancer as often as their non-Hispanic white counterparts, disparities still exist. California-based organization Latinas Contra Cancer is working to change that.
Oncologist Rana Bitar talks about her new book “The Long Tale of Tears and Smiles: An Oncologist’s Journey” highlighting why it is so important for medical professionals to listen to warriors.
It can be difficult to be taken seriously as a young person. But as cancer rates continue growing in younger demographics, warriors like 21 year old Manar Kashk stress the importance of advocating for yourself and listening to your body when it comes to your health.
As if a cancer diagnosis weren’t hard enough, caregiving can come at its own cost. Serena Hu shares her experience caregiving for her late father.
Breast cancer warrior and mindfulness facilitator Sharon Brock shares how her “LOVEE Method” inspired resilience throughout her own diagnosis and treatment.
Founder of Black Women Rising and breast cancer warrior Leanne Pero advocates for Black warriors and thrivers to receive the resources they need to beat cancer.
Founded by a cervical cancer survivor, nonprofit organization Cervivor is smashing the stigma of the disease.
Obi “Obisoulstar” Uwakwe’s photography shows breast cancer warriors in a new light.
Author, actress, model and cancer warrior Sara Quiriconi shares her tips for a fulfilling life during and after cancer.
Issue 12’s thriver is Jamie Zeller Bitton who survived breast cancer.
Catharsis and community abound in “Talk About Cancer,” a weekly podcast featuring warriors, caregivers and more speaking candidly about their cancer experience.
Tamron Little, who was diagnosed with peritoneal mesothelioma at just 21 years old, recalls her experience with the disease and how she never let it stop her from living each day with love.
Flat Closure NOW advocates and educates in support of aesthetic flat closure.
Breast cancer thriver Tracee Cole shares her experience of being diagnosed with stage II triple-positive breast cancer a mere month before COVID-19 shut the world down.
Rhonda Meckstroth knows all too well how important it is to receive a second opinion—it saved her husband Jeff during his unexpected lung cancer diagnosis in their small rural Ohio community. Now they’re fighting for other families to have the same second shot at life.
Alexis Mencos had all the symptoms of pregnancy—then it turned out to actually be ovarian cancer. Freshly 21 and in the middle of getting her degree, Mencos was determined that her diagnosis wouldn’t be a full-stop in her life, but a pause.
The Chick Mission educates, assists and advocates for women seeking cancer-related fertility preservation.
Breast cancer warrior Stephanie Yuskis found out she had two major health issues in the span of one week, and discovered strength through her son.
Former NFL player Devon Still and United Therapeutics Oncology are teaming up through Braving NeuroBLASToma to provide a playbook for the rare childhood cancer—and for Still, it’s personal.
Writer and artist Danielle Doby shares the lessons she’s learned about gratitude, grief and the infinite influence of cancer.
Lymphoma warrior Nicole Bullock reflects on how faith and hope got her through cancer and put her on a new, more enriching path in life.
Juliet Aguwa details her cancer experience as an African woman and how she is bringing awareness to underserved communities, all while finding beauty again.
A close connection with warriors is still possible through a screen. The National Ovarian Cancer Coalition left no stone unturned during its virtual weekend Wellness Retreat this past spring that led participants in finding support, spreading awareness and taking action.
Experiencing a malignant melanoma diagnosis taught Emma Divine how to rise from the ashes—and the importance of checking your skin.
Resilientship is redefining friendship for women warriors, pairing you with someone who understands exactly what you’re going through with its platonic matchmaking service.
Musician Luke Fockler didn’t let a cancer diagnosis slow him down. Instead, he and his band, Along Came a Spider, used the “invisible disease” as a chance to provide solace for others fighting their own unseen battles.
After surviving breast cancer, Nicole Czarnomski lives her life with joy and inspires others to find what makes them happy, even in the face of adversity.
Our summer issue’s thrivers are the mother-daughter duo of Shelley and Dana Stewart, breast and uterine cancer survivors.
As a breast cancer survivor, Amy Wu knew how to live with the uncertainty of the COVID lockdown by finding new ways to adapt and to advocate for others.
The summer issues warrior is Leonard, a lymphoma warrior diagnosed during the pandemic.
Photographer and filmmaker Ben Moon has experienced many wild things throughout his years on the road, but a colorectal cancer diagnosis at 29 was by far one of the least expected. Now cancer-free, Moon combines vulnerability and adventure to show that even with hardship, there is still a lot of life left to live.
Carla Walker wasn’t surprised when she received a breast cancer diagnosis—three of her sisters had also had the disease. But then her twin daughters were diagnosed too, situating Carla to set an example in survivorship.
Young Survival Coalition’s annual summit may have gone virtual this year, but there was no shortage of making connections and fostering community for young women warriors.
Pre-vivor Paige Kornblue says observing her mother’s surprise battle with colon cancer inspired her to take her health seriously, even during a pandemic.
Women researchers are important to cancer science, yet the oncology field often fails at properly recognizing it. Organizations like Women Who Conquer Cancer and ResearcHERS are working to shatter the glass ceiling.
Brad Beetham of Cal’s Angels is the international issue’s Spotlight Supporter.
After her mother passed away from cancer, Katie Russell Newland went on the trip of a lifetime for any baseball fan in order to get closer to her.
Armed with a brand new targeted therapy option, familial support and a sense of humor, Shannan A. is rising above brain cancer.
After a difficult breast cancer journey, Lesley Nygaard turned pain into passion by creating a holistic nutritional resource for other warriors.
Drawing from her journey with childhood cancer, Melody Lomboy-Lowe is now uplifting the cancer community during its hardest moments through a portrait series.
Every cancer journey is different and so is the way you choose to share it. Finding the best communication tools to keep your loved ones in the loop means one less thing to worry about.
After a stage IV breast cancer diagnosis, Leslie Ferris Yerger realized there was a lot she hadn’t known about the risk of cancer when it comes to dense breasts. With the formation of nonprofit My Density Matters, she’s urging other women to take action.
Even with a cancer diagnosis, there can be moments that are cause for celebration.
Breast cancer warriors can find extra support through Boobie Crowns, an organization with an unconventional way of making you feel like royalty.
YSC offers educational materials, social opportunities and more for a younger subset of the breast cancer community.
Meet issue 10’s cancer thriver, Kate Haleblian, who survived cancer right when her young adult life was about to begin.
Chantelle Krangle knows all too well that surviving childhood cancer doesn’t end when you reach adulthood. Cancer has left a lingering legacy for the 27 year old as she works to move forward in life two decades after a diagnosis.
After surviving childhood cancer, Lauren Pickhart was determined to rediscover the things in life she was actually passionate about.
It’s spring! There’s no better moment than the present to cultivate your daydreams of becoming a green-thumbed horticulturist.
Lung cancer survivor Nichelle Stigger shares how advocating for herself led to her initial diagnosis.
In all of her unfiltered and unabashed glory, GIRLvsCANCER founder Lauren Mahon has set out to show young women that they are more than a diagnosis.
At 41 years old, Lesley Nygaard was diagnosed with stage III breast cancer. What could have been a devastating experience inspired her to create a naturopathic medicine company to help others.
Memoirist Liza Marshall recalls how she reclaimed her intimacy and self-esteem after body-altering surgery and treatment.
One woman’s decision to freeze her eggs ended up not only saving her life but changing the entire course of it.
One family’s history demonstrates how cancer can be passed from generation to generation—but so can courage.
Millennials can feel left behind in the cancer community when receiving a diagnosis in the prime of their life, especially in comparison to their younger or older counterparts. Stupid Cancer is changing that.
During breast cancer treatment, it can be tough to tell others what you need when you’re not even sure yourself. Nonprofit organization Step Sisters is there to help.
Renowned racing car driver John Andretti lost his battle to colon cancer in 2020, but his legacy lives on as his family promotes and provides early screenings through the #CheckIt4Andretti foundation.
Mighty + Bright creator Sara Olsher is tackling difficult conversations with children through a line of books about coping with change and chaos.
It’s easy to delay or avoid routine screenings. But Cynthia Hayes knows all too well that these pesky appointments can be life-saving.
You don’t get to choose when your cancer journey happens, but you can choose the ways you grow from it.
After caring for her mother during her battle with stage IV stomach cancer, Michelle Patidar trusted her instincts when a dream-state visit from her mother warned her about her own health.
This issue’s thriver is Patrick Young, who survived squamous cell carcinoma of the lip.
Art speaks louder than words in Twist Out Cancer’s Brushes with Cancer program that utilizes artists to paint a picture of the relationship individuals have with cancer.
Our featured Supporters in the new issue of Cancer Wellness are two sisters and the founders of Courageous Bakery & Cafe.
Two breast cancer diagnoses in her 30s have not stopped Chris-Tia Donaldson, lawyer and founder of natural hair care brand Thank God It’s Natural, from living her best life in the present.
The featured Spotlight Warrior for our Supporter Issue is Dr. Rick Brown.
In her new cW column, television host Whitney Reynolds spotlights an uplifting story from a notable person in the cancer community.
Share the love or treat yourself with this roundup of care packages that curate thoughtful goodies with cancer warriors in mind.
Cancer has had a presence in Allyn Rose’s life for as long as she can remember. After witnessing her mother, grandmother and great aunt battle breast cancer, the model and former Miss USA underwent a preventative mastectomy. Now, she’s empowering previvors everywhere.
U.S. military bases across the Middle East are partaking in open air burn pits to cheaply destroy unwanted items. In the process, some soldiers are paying a deadly price.
In our new portrait series, we capture the beauty of the New Cancer Community.
Jewelry designer Bella Caetano, owner of Bellina Caetano, is committed to creating products abundant with meaning. So when a Bellina Caetano x Cancer Wellness collab for warriors, thrivers and supporters was proposed, the decision was crystal clear.
In losing her mother from colon cancer, Lauren DeMello has gained a new family of previvors and warriors.
Gospel house music prodigy Dana Divine has a reputation for being the life of the party, so it’s no surprise that she brought that same upbeat energy to her cancer journey.
Northern Illinois organization Mano a Mano is empowering and educating Latinos to improve colorectal cancer screening rates and awareness among immigrants.
Danielle Mitchell, creator of the Adult Coloring Book for Breast Cancer Patients, is our Womens Health issue spotlight supporter.
Famed NFL kicker Robbie Gould has turned the 2020-2021 football season into something unusual—a fundraiser for pediatric cancer.
Coach Grey Giovanine of Augustana College says early screening and preparation for prostate cancer saved his life.
Poet and author Victoria Bennett has experienced countless loss from mesothelioma in her family. With her new poetry collection, she hopes to share her message of hope and healing with others.
Philadelphia educator Erika Wimms’ teachings have expanded beyond just the classroom as she works to spread early awareness about breast cancer in Black communities.
Meet this issue’s cancer survivor and thriver, Julie Brumm, who shares her journey through vaginal cancer.
A cancer diagnosis during a pandemic can feel like a double whammy, but Kelli Stanko ended up stumbling onto joy in the process.
Popular fashion, travel and lifestyle blogger Ceta Walters was ready to embark on her next phase of life when cancer came knocking. But despite it all, her diagnosis hasn’t kept her from sharing her wisdom with the world.
A plan of care is important after a diagnosis, but even more important is making your voice heard during the process so you can receive the care that’s right for you.
Bridal shop owner Lori Allen had it all, including two successful TV shows, a strong marriage and loving children. But it took a breast cancer diagnosis for her to finally care for the most important thing of all—herself.
Cyndi Gerdez is this month’s warrior. Finding the right treatment plan can be the difference when it comes to thriving.
Whether it’s through news briefs, weather forecasts or traffic reports, journalists play an important role in the way we plan our day. These six Chicago women journalists take that influence one step further when it comes to cancer.
When blogger Kamelia Britton was diagnosed with aggressive breast cancer, she struggled to share her story with thousands of followers and find a sense of purpose. A stranger’s small act of kindness helped her do both.
Pro hockey player Sam Fields was working toward the NHL bid he had dreamed about since childhood. But after an unexpected CML diagnosis, he suddenly found himself in a very different kind of faceoff.
Frank McKenna’s stage IV lung cancer diagnosis came as a huge surprise, but he never realized the tools he needed for survival were always within reach.
After undergoing treatment for Ewing Sarcoma cancer, veteran Brandi Benson was left with a 24-inch scar that tested and taught her to how to love and embrace her new self.
The founder of Mekky Media shares her story about how a surprise ovarian cancer diagnosis led her to start her own public relations firm.
Bill Thompson thought he was in peak health, until a series of unexplainable symptoms led to his final diagnosis—stage IV bladder cancer. Fighting for his life was equal parts a physical, mental and medical battle.
The health effects of the twin towers tragedy are only just recently being understood well.
Knowing exactly what to say or how to say it when talking about your own diagnosis isn’t always possible. When you just can’t seem to find the words, art therapy gives you a canvas.
Imagine a world without prostate cancer. Nonprofit ZERO is working to make that dream a reality.
The turmoil of blogger Anna Crollman’s cancer diagnosis at 27 was amplified when she learned treatment could lead to loss of fertility. Her path to pregnancy wasn’t easy, but it evolved into a beautiful testimony of strength.
Seventeen years after Grammy Award-winning musician Warren Zevon’s death from pleural mesothelioma, his legacy lives on through the advocacy work of his son, Jordan.
When Army Col. Doug Thomas was diagnosed with epithelioid mesothelioma in May, at the age of just 45, he chose to return to the basic principles of service that guided him over the years
This issue’s Spotlight warrior is Steve Thompson, who has learned the importance of gratitude while battling stage IV colon cancer.
It’s time to turn the spotlight on the silent sufferers of cancer—men.
Social media has provided a platform for cancer warriors and thrivers to unapologetically share their journey while offering support and resources. Here’s six of our fave follow-worthy influencers doing just that.
The Cancer Cartel’s first annual fun run/walk starts this weekend to benefit cancer warriors with financial constraints.
Brandi Benson went overseas to fight for her country, but she ended up fighting another battle within herself—cancer.
In waiting for No Evidence of Disease, Ana Reyes says cancer survivorship is much like a board game—full of false starts, great luck, and a lot of waiting.
As a military wife, Kelsey Bucci is well versed in leaning into the unknown, and her unexpected breast cancer diagnosis was no exception. Through takeaways from her own fight, she’s now helping warriors everywhere feel beautiful and safe.
Jason B. Rosenthal, husband of the late award-winning author Amy Krouse Rosenthal, chatted with us about “My Wife Said You May Want to Marry Me,” his memoir response to Amy’s viral New York Times column published just 10 days before her death from ovarian cancer.
A cancer journey is deeply personal, but two-time warrior Christina Vaccacio chose to look outward and uplift others through sharing her story. It ended up impacting her own life in ways she never expected.
When Flavia Moylan’s son Joe was diagnosed with cancer, she used the food he ate—and not just the medicine he was given—to help him fight the sickness from within.
Bear Necessities raises awareness and funds for childhood cancer research, but until a cure is discovered once and for all, this nonprofit is on a quest to make each child’s day shine a little bit brighter.
While I didn’t enjoy the challenges of becoming a two-time survivor of bilateral osteosarcoma, I can say with confidence that those experiences strengthened my lionlike attributes, like persistence and drive.
Under the direction of founder Damian Buchman, Milwaukee nonprofit The Ability Center provides inclusive play opportunities for people of all abilities while changing the conversation around accessibility and inclusivity entirely.
At 23 years old, engineer Sydney Rozycki was on the cusp of young adult life when she received an unexpected breast cancer diagnosis. But she never saw it as being the end of her story—only a continuation.
For children dealing with a world of uncertainty, art can be a useful and comforting way to induce mindfulness and joy.
Environmentalist and Plastic Patrol founder Lizzie Carr found activism through one unusual journey: her treatment for cancer.
Sofia Reino, a two-time cancer survivor, says the trials and tribulations of life in active treatment makes cancer warriors and survivors particularly prepared for difficult situations—including a pandemic.
Kym Douglas, a star of shows like “Home & Family” and “The Ellen DeGeneres Show” says her breast cancer diagnosis taught her one important lesson—how to advocate for herself.
“This is the second time I’ve [battled] cancer,” says issue 6 warrior Garrett Byrd. “The first time, it definitely hit me way harder.”
After overcoming melanoma at age 18, Karolina Jasko went on to win Miss Illinois USA and find her purpose.
Diagnosed with lymphoma like her father, Lea Guccione turned her cancer diagnosis into a powerful opportunity to find joy in the strangest moments.
Being present helps us see where we really are. All you have is time.
Alternative treatment centers in Tijuana, Mexico, claim miracle cures for cancer, but therapies on offer—ranging from zany to dangerous—often do more harm than good.
Twenty years after his death from bile duct cancer, legendary Chicago Bears running back Walter Payton’s legacy lives on in a new documentary, “Savoring Sweetness,” produced by his son, Jarrett.
“I feel fine. I look fine. I’m functioning fine. And there’s no sense worrying about what’s going to happen,” says Warrior Mardie Anderson.
You can’t control a cancer diagnosis, but you can control how you react to it. In her latest column, Jessica Walker talks about how to focus on the aspects of your life you can control amidst the uncertainty of a cancer diagnosis.
After a near-death experience following an unexpected cancer diagnosis, Kathleen Brown reflects on the past 24 years of survivorship to appreciate the hidden gifts of her cancer journey.
“Tough,” a collection of essays curated by breast cancer thriver Marquina Iliev-Piselli, acts as an everyday survival guide for those undergoing cancer treatment.
Zack Johnson and his film crew shine light on the everyday people affected by the deadly and aggressive cancer mesothelioma in the movie “Dirty Laundry.”
Thomas Cantley went from a New York City fashion photographer to a homeless addict to a stage III cancer survivor. Now, he’s eager to share what he’s learned about life with people around the world.
This guided meditation, created by Shanna Shrum, invites you to only accept loving thoughts about yourself and the world around you.
Issue 4’s “Thriver” is Art “Chat Daddy” Sims, who details his experiences of switching to natural care while in remission for leukemia.
Issue 4’s featured “Supporter” is Jill Peet Sapponaro, who orchestrated a lighting ceremony for pancreatic cancer research.
From his start in medicine, finding his groove in stand-up comedy and hosting the hit competition show, “American Ninja Warrior,” to raising millions of dollars for charity, Matt Iseman has connected with audiences through the gift of storytelling.
Issue 4’s “Warrior,” Brooke Long, talks about how she stays strong after receiving a breast cancer diagnosis … twice.
Rob Paulsen is one of the most recognizable voice actors working today, but a cancer diagnosis almost silenced him forever.
Melissa Berry founded Cancer Fashionista as a fashion and lifestyle resource for women diagnosed with cancer, dispensing fun and friendship for women when they need it most.
During her three cancer diagnoses, Tameka Johnson was flooded with harsh emotions—pain, anger, fear, frustration—but found her respite in writing, in loving her daughter, and living life “on purpose.”
Cancer Wellness’ resident meditation guide Shanna Shrum talks to us about her personal practice, what she hopes to share with clients, and how meditation can truly change one’s life for the better.
At just 30 years old, Sophie has been in remission from cancer for 23 years, but the trauma of surviving childhood cancer can’t be ignored, despite Sophie’s best efforts to stifle the memories.
Issue 3’s “Fighter” is Michael Everhart, who is battling stage IV malignant glioblastoma.
Issue 3’s “Thriver” is Maria Luisa Gonzalez-Crespo from Courage for the soul.
The Supporter featured in issue 3 of Cancer Wellness is Jodi Fyfe of Tickled Pink for Bright Pink.
Cancer-free for almost 16 years, GiGi Sturgis was scared for her life when her acute myeloid leukemia came back. But after befriending stylist-to-the-stars Raquel Smith, GiGi was treated to a celebrity makeover which helped put her back on the path to living happily and healthily.
Caylei Vogelzang sits down with Art “Chat Daddy” Sims, host of “Real Talk, Real People” on WVON.
Wendy Santana often felt fear, isolation, and anxiety during treatment and recovery for brain cancer, but a new tattoo sparked conversations in the hospital room that revived her spirit.
The new documentary “True North” follows adventurer Sean Swarner from the hospital beds of his youth to the top of Mount Everest—and beyond.
When comedian Maria Falzone received a terminal cancer diagnosis, she knew all she could do was laugh.
Meet Caylei Vogelzang, our Editor-in-Chief, who attributes her business and personal success to getting out of the office and traveling the world with her family.
When cW columnist Jessica Walker went on an overseas excursion with her husband after his cancer diagnosis, she learned the small moments of joy are just as momentous as those that seem larger than life.
How you observe milestones on your cancer journey is a personal decision. We spoke with five people about the creative ways they observe a cancer milestone.
After years of poor sun-protection habits, Jennifer Bringle’s breast cancer diagnosis finally made her get serious about skin cancer.
Meet the organization bringing psychosocial wellness to Chicagoland’s cancer community.
Everything was going right for William Yank, until he fell ill with an innocuous sore throat. The diagnosis? Acute lymphoblastic leukemia. But in the months following treatment and remission, he learned that the true purpose of his life was just beginning.
Claudia “Sunny” Hayes was diagnosed with breast cancer at just 25 years old. A new business owner, her rigorous treatment schedule almost ruined everything she had worked for, but maintaining positivity and a renewed focus on her goals allowed her to create a new kind of success story.
After her father passed, Clare Kustic struggled to find a new normal, but once she gave herself permission to falter, she finally found stability.
When Jamie found a lump in her breast, doctors told her it was nothing to worry about, but she trusted her instincts and got a second opinion. When she was eventually diagnosed with breast cancer, Jamie truly understood the importance of patients advocating for themselves.
I feel like my story is a little bit boring. I’m like a shark. I just keep going.
I spent a lot of years in a cubicle, and [running] is kind of busting out of the cubicle.
I think people want everything to be definitively over, and that’s what I thought it was going to be like. I didn’t realize every day, in some aspect, it affects my day.
Dana and Colleen do everything together. When they both get diagnosed with cancer, they come up with a plan to truly start living.
After hearing my results, I thought: How do I tell my boyfriend?
Most 10-year-olds find out how to make volcanoes in science class; I figured out boobs were just as sensitive and explosive.
“During a late-August afternoon, about a month before she died, my mother and I recited a duet of suggestions for the inscription on her gravestone. Each one made us laugh.”
Miss Nikki gets real (funny) about the practical benefits of her mastectomy and Make-A-Wish Foundation.
Edward Miskie, a musical theater actor and the author of “Cancer, Musical Theater, and Other Chronic Illnesses,” learned a lot about the power of friendship and finding one’s purpose while undergoing treatment.
Meet Bill Perez, who was first diagnosed with throat squamous cell carcinoma more than nine years ago. He calls facing cancer one of the fiercest battles of his life.
Sally Terpsma’s husband of 42 years died less than a year after his mesothelioma diagnosis. In many ways, she became his primary caretaker, nurse, and cheerleader.
We celebrate the life and laughter of Miss Nikki, a Chicago-based stand-up comedian who fought and lost her battle with breast cancer.
