Lymphedema Surgery Changed Joy’s Life (video provided by MD Anderson) After breast cancer treatment, Joy faced lymphedema, a common cancer treatment side effect that causes the lymphatic system to become blocked and may result in a swollen arm or leg. Because of her lymphedema, Joy dealt with many infections over the years. Eventually, she went … Read More
Author: tommyandnancyfields
A Discussion with Heather Parrish
I would encourage you [Caregiver/Loved One] to allow the cancer fighter to express whatever emotion they are feeling in the moment, without trying to fix the situation. During two back-to-back battles with cancer, Heather Parrish, proprietor of Montgomery’s Southern Art & Makers Collective gallery and shop, learned the limits of her own tenacity and how … Read More
A Discussion with David Barranco
When David Barranco, owner of a favorite Montgomery eatery, was diagnosed with breast cancer, his first feelings were fearful. But now he’s able to inject a little humor into his story. He shares how hope and a supportive cancer community helped him through a trying time. Share a little about how you found out you … Read More
Apple Cider Vinegar: Worth a Shot?
Whether it’s cooking, baking, cleaning or canning, vinegar has been used for ages for a variety of purposes. But lately, drinking vinegar, the apple cider kind in particular, has become a trend too popular to ignore. Turns out, there are potentially some great health benefits, but you have to take precautions too. Is it worth … Read More
Park Provisions
Along with the new Lodge, Gulf State Park also got some new eating options. At Foodcraft, soak in the sun on the patio or grab a seat in the energetic atmosphere inside. In either spot, indulge in local bounty, including produce and products from area farmers and just-caught seafood from Gulf fishermen. If you’re after … Read More
Lymphedema Surgery Eases Symptoms of this Common Cancer Treatment Side Effect
Lymphedema Surgery Eases Symptoms of this Common Cancer Treatment Side Effect (video and information provided by MD Anderson) Lymphedema is a common cancer treatment side effect that can lead to swelling, pain and sometimes infections. Lymphedema can be treated through noninvasive methods like massage, compression garments and physical therapy. But if lymphedema symptoms do not … Read More
Herb-a-licious: Grow an Indoor Herb Garden
Lending their scents to everything from candles to shampoo, their flavors to foods and their medicinal properties to soothing remedies, herbs have a whole lot of benefits, and the fresher, the better. If you don’t have the space to grow your own outdoor herb garden, don’t fret; herbs love sunny windowsills too. Here’s how to … Read More
Vitamin Sea
On your mark, get set, let go. A getaway to Alabama’s beaches is always an escape, but a visit to Gulf State Park takes you even farther from the hectic hustle and bustle of our modern lives by offering healthy doses of fresh ocean air and some vitamin “sea.” This swath of calm and quiet … Read More
A Discussion with Dr. Carrie J. Nelson
According to 27-year-breast-cancer survivor Dr. Carrie J. Nelson,fear overwhelmed her in the moments just following her diagnosis, but she moved past emotion and turned her energy outward,founding a nonprofit to help others. Tell us about your cancer diagnosis. My cancer experience began on a winter day in Grand Blanc, Michigan, in March of 1990 with … Read More
Monroeville & Mockingbird
Take the trek to Monroeville, Alabama, to learn more about famed writer Harper Lee, and do it soon. Spring is the time to get the most out of a sojourn to “Alabama’s Literary Capital,” since the annual production of the “To Kill a Mockingbird” play is put on each April and May. As the birthplace … Read More










