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Sharing Hope

Sometimes, the only people who really understand are those who have had cancer touch their lives

Physical and Occupational Therapy Helps Non-Hodgkin Skin Lymphoma Patient

Marty Marchak was diagnosed with stage I non-Hodgkin skin lymphoma, which then began his chemotherapy and radiation journey at the U-M Rogel Cancer Center. Fortunately, after his second chemotherapy session in early December 2018, doctors informed Marchak that the treatments worked and that the remaining chemotherapy and radiation could be discontinued. At first, Marchak had no pain or side effects from his treatment except for being more tired than usual. But then, suddenly, unusual symptoms started to appear.

Creating inspiration for those with cancer in their lives

Thanks to a generous donation to the Department of Radiation Oncology from former patients, a colorful rock garden lines the pathway to inspire patients before they even walk in the door. As one patient, Hannah Thomas, says, "It’s a reminder the people in there have your back and are there to support you during the worst time.”

Adrenal Cancer Patient Treated with HIPEC

In October 2018, Amy Short-Ashworth prepared for an advanced cancer procedure involving both surgery and chemotherapy, her chance to get rid of the rare and often fatal stage IV adrenal cortical carcinoma she had been treating for more than two years.

Using Fitness to Cope with Advanced Colorectal Cancer

Chris Zimmer thought he was in perfect health when he turned 50. But when he went in for his first routine colonoscopy, he was stunned to learn he had a large tumor. More than that, the tumor was stage 4 rectal cancer. While the treatment wasn't easy, Zimmer believes his love of the outdoors and exercise helped him get through the difficult times.

War as a metaphor for cancer can be relieved of duty

Popular culture has long used war as a metaphor to describe the human experience of cancer. We are attacked by an enemy (cancer), unwillingly conscripted, and expected to fight with the help of generals (doctors) and allies (other medical personnel) who counterattack with an arsenal of weapons. But, I don’t think so. Cancer begins with a single mistake within our bodies, so why would I want to think of my body as an enemy when, for the most part, it has served me well? I wasn’t about to go to war with myself even when my body made a mistake.

Rogel Inspires

#RogelInspires is a social media series that gives patients, doctors, researchers, nurses, family members and anyone involved with the Rogel Cancer Center a chance to share what inspires them to stay positive in their daily activities. This positivity then bounces back to those swiping through Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Paths with Purpose

The Meaning-Centered Psychotherapy Group for Persons Living With Advanced Cancer provides support and encourages participants to take a deeper look at finding meaning in life regardless of one’s situation.

The Act of Sharing

Four years after being diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer, Rose Mary Worthen faces every day with hope. Her passion for art led her to create inspirational charms -- or stones -- that she shares with others. Sharing hope, sharing joy, sharing laughter keeps her going.

Prevention, Preparedness and Progress Podcasts

The University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center created the 3Ps of Cancer podcasts to highlight how to face cancer through prevention, being prepared and through the progress in cancer treatments and research. Each episode tackles one of these areas with topics presented by University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center physicians, staff or patients.

Cancer Patient and Family Support Services

There's more to cancer treatment than just surgery, chemotherapy or radiation. There's services to help the healing and mental exhaustion that comes with actual course of treatment. So, what are the support services provided to cancer patients by the University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center? How do they help? We asked the director of the Rogel Cancer Center's Patient and Family Support Services for answers.

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