When it comes to tackling cancer, information (knowledge is power) and support go a long way. Actress Olivia Newton-John knows this first hand, and as she battles stage 4 breast cancer, she’s sharing her experience by being a part of a new documentary following research and new treatment options for the disease. Survivors and patients often use their cancer journey as a way to spread awareness and information about cancer, and that’s what she’s trying to do. However, as the documentary explores “alternative” treatment options, patients should know the stats when they stray from standard cancer care, and how it can have negative impact on your health.
On Instagram, Newton-John, 71, says that she and her husband will be featured in a new documentary The Answer to Cancer, a nine-episode film project exploring recent conventional and alternative treatment options for those facing the disease. In addition to Newton-John, the documentary will include perspectives from over 60 of the world’s leading researchers and doctors, as well as stories from survivors giving straight-to-the-point information and real-world personal experiences from those who have gone through it. However, as the documentary explores “alternative” treatment options, it’s important to remind patients that standard care should still be prioritized before exploring other options.
Read MoreAfter Cancer: Spreading Awareness And Cancer Activism
In conversations with survivors, many have said facing cancer made them learn information about the disease that they didn’t know before their diagnosis. Once completing treatment, some feel the need to give back and share that information with those newly diagnosed.
When Mark Borja, based in Charlotte, North Carolina, was diagnosed with testicular cancer, he like many others, initially felt ashamed of his diagnosis. While undergoing treatment, he realized that many of his peers and friends didn’t know much about the disease, which led him to create an organization spreading awareness. Save a Nut is a support group for men in Charlotte and the surrounding area who are going through testicular cancer. He knows he isn’t the only man who has experienced shame after facing testicular cancer, and he created Save a Nut as a way for men to talk openly about their feelings.
Testicular cancer survivor Mark Borja created a support group for other men facing the disease
For Sue Manber, she learned about her cancer diagnosis through her 13-year-old daughter Sarina. After spotting a strange mark on her mother’s nose, Sue made an appointment with the doctor and ended up being diagnosed with Merkel cell carcinoma an extremely rare form of skin cancer. She underwent seven surgeries, chemotherapy, and radiation, and inspired by her journey, created a campaign targeted towards skin cancer awareness.
The Big See is an awareness campaign which educates the public on skin cancer, such as how to monitor your skin for any sudden changes that may indicate cancer as well as sharing helpful tips for doing self-exams on the skin, and advice for when a mark or mole may warrant a visit to the dermatologist.
Skin cancer survivor Sue Manber created an awareness campaign to teach others about skin cancer
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