Stage 4 Lung Cancer Veteran Speaks Out to Save Others
Stage 4 Lung Cancer Veteran: Xavier Sanders Fights for Awareness
Xavier Sanders spent 14 years proudly serving in the U.S. Air Force. But in 2022, his life changed when doctors discovered stage 4 lung cancer—despite never smoking. The cancer had already spread to his liver and brain. Now, Xavier is using his voice to speak out about the urgent need for earlier detection, better support, and more awareness—especially for service members exposed to burn pits and toxic chemicals during deployment.
He’s not just fighting for himself. Xavier is advocating for younger airmen who may not know what symptoms to watch for or how to get the right care. His wife, Chelsea, has become his strongest advocate—reminding others that “mental toughness” can sometimes hide real suffering. Together, they’re pushing for change in how military members with cancer are seen, heard, and supported.
Now a passionate advocate, Xavier is using his story and his brand, to inspire others to fight with authenticity, courage, and hope. “Every day is a new day to fight,” he says. “We can’t afford to stay quiet.” (Source: Xavier’s Story, March 2024)
Read the complete article here >
You’re Not Alone—Connect with the Stage 4 Hope Community
Read more stage 4 lung cancer veteran stories, early detection and lung cancer in non-smokers.
Join our community to access resources, events, medical updates, and invitations to supportive virtual events.
Lung Cancer in Nonsmokers
Lung Cancer in Nonsmokers: The Truth, the Science, and Stories of Hope
Lung cancer is often treated like a “smoker’s disease,” but that stereotype is outdated—and it’s hurting people. Many patients have never smoked, and women under 65 are now seeing higher incidence rates than men in some age groups. What’s behind these cases? Often, the answer is biology: genetic mutations that can drive lung cancer even without traditional risk factors.
In this post, we’ll cover what’s driving lung cancer in nonsmokers (including RET-positive lung cancer and EGFR mutations), why stigma matters, what genetic testing can uncover, and how real patients are finding hope through research, advocacy, and community.
The Truth About Lung Cancer: It’s Not Just a Smoker’s Disease1
Lung cancer still carries a painful stigma. Many patients report feeling blamed or judged—by friends, family, and even medical professionals—because people assume smoking caused their disease. But anyone with lungs can get lung cancer, and no one deserves to be blamed for a diagnosis.
That stigma can do real harm. It’s been associated with delayed care, higher rates of depression, and lower screening rates—despite the fact that screening can catch lung cancer earlier, when treatment is often more effective. Shifting the narrative matters: lung cancer is a health issue, not a moral failing.
Lung Cancer in Women and Nonsmokers: What to Know2
Lung cancer diagnoses are declining overall, but a growing number of cases are being found in people who don’t fit the “typical” image—especially younger women and nonsmokers.
One reason some cases are missed or delayed is misdiagnosis. Younger nonsmoking women are sometimes told symptoms are asthma, bronchitis, or allergies, which can cost precious time. If you feel something is wrong, trust yourself. Persistent symptoms deserve follow-up, regardless of age or smoking history.
What’s Driving Lung Cancer in Nonsmokers?3
For many nonsmokers, lung cancer is driven by genetic mutations—changes inside cancer cells that help tumors grow. These are not the same as inherited risk (though inherited factors can play a role). Instead, they’re often tumor biomarkers that guide treatment.
This is why genetic testing (also called biomarker testing or molecular testing) is so important—especially for people with advanced lung cancer. It helps doctors match a patient to targeted therapy, which may be more effective and sometimes better tolerated than standard approaches alone.
Understanding RET-Positive Lung Cancer
One mutation that can drive lung cancer in nonsmokers is a RET fusion. RET-positive lung cancer is more common in never-smokers and can occur in younger patients, including women. It also may not show up through routine screening, which makes awareness and appropriate testing even more important.
Why it matters: If a tumor is RET-positive, a patient may be eligible for targeted treatments designed specifically to block RET-driven cancer growth. That can change the entire treatment plan—and outcomes.
Takeaway: If you or a loved one is diagnosed with lung cancer—especially stage 4 or hard-to-treat disease—ask your care team about biomarker testing early.
(Source: American Cancer Society, Yale Medicine, J Clin Oncol)
Read the complete article here
EGFR and Other Mutations: Why Testing Can Change Everything5
Mutations like EGFR are also more common in women and are seen at higher rates in certain populations, including Asian women. These biomarkers can open the door to targeted therapies that are specifically designed for cancers driven by those mutations.
The bottom line: lung cancer treatment is becoming more personalized. But personalization starts with testing.
How Research Is Accelerating Answers: The Lung Cancer Genetics Study6
A powerful genetics study is bringing hope to people facing lung cancer—especially nonsmokers and those with rare mutations. The Lung Cancer Genetics Study is collecting patient genetic and clinical data to help researchers:
- identify patterns in lung cancer among nonsmokers
- accelerate discoveries for rare mutations
- support more personalized treatment approaches
As more people participate and more data becomes available, researchers can move faster—and patients benefit from better-informed care.
Lung Cancer in Non-Smokers: Survivor & Patient Stories
Scientific progress matters—but so do stories. Real people are living proof that the lung cancer narrative is bigger than stigma.
From Remission to Recurrence: Karen’s Stage 4 Lung Cancer Journey
Karen was diagnosed with lung cancer at 47—a healthy, never-smoker with no family history—and after surgery, chemo, and eight clear years of scans, her cancer returned and became stage 4. Strengthened by new breakthroughs in lung cancer research, she continues to live fully. Karen’s story is a reminder that advances in treatment are giving patients more options, more time, and more hope.
Stage 4 Lung Cancer Veteran: Xavier Fights for Awareness
Air Force veteran Xavier Sanders was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer despite never smoking. He’s raising awareness about burn pit exposure, early detection, and support for service members. He’s not just fighting for himself. Xavier is advocating for younger airmen who may not know what symptoms to watch for or how to get the right care.
What You Can Do: Advocate for Yourself or Someone You Love
If you’re concerned about symptoms or navigating a diagnosis, these steps can help:
- Don’t dismiss persistent symptoms—especially a cough that won’t go away, shortness of breath, chest pressure, or unexplained weight loss
- Ask about lung cancer screening if you’re eligible
- If diagnosed, request biomarker testing early (RET, EGFR, and other drivers)
- Ask your doctor about targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and clinical trials when appropriate
- Seek community—support improves coping, confidence, and follow-through with care
You’re Not Alone—Connect with the Stage 4 Hope Community
Whether you’re navigating treatment options, seeking emotional support, or trying to make sense of a new diagnosis, Stage 4 Hope is here for you. Learn more about topics like lung cancer in nonsmokers by joining our community. Connect with others who understand your experience and gain access to trusted resources, medical updates, and invitations to supportive virtual gatherings.
References:
- https://www.mskcc.org/news/understanding-stigma-lung-cancer
- https://www.mskcc.org/news/lung-cancer-in-women-and-nonsmokers-what-to-know-about-symptoms-diagnosis-and-treatment
- https://happylungsproject.org/lung-cancer-risk-factors-understanding-its-causes-and-prevention/
Friendship During Cancer
The Power of Friendship When Facing Cancer
When you’re walking through something as overwhelming as cancer, one of the most powerful lifelines you can hold onto is this: you don’t have to walk it alone.
I’m Dr. Sharon May with Stage4Hope, and I want to share two important truths backed by research—and rooted in real-life experience—that can bring you comfort and strength:
- Good friends truly matter.
- A positive mindset can make all the difference.
We already know that going through something difficult with a friend by your side makes it easier. But science now confirms this truth in a profound way. In Dr. James Coan’s research, people were given mild electric shocks—yes, you read that right!—but when they held the hand of someone they deeply cared about, the stress response in their brain significantly decreased. The pain was more bearable simply because someone they loved was there.
That’s the power of presence.
Another powerful study published in Psycho-oncology (2010) followed cancer survivors for eight years. They found that those who received meaningful emotional support just three months after their diagnosis experienced post-traumatic growth—they were better emotionally, mentally, and spiritually years later. Support doesn’t just help in the moment—it shapes how you move through your cancer journey and who you become on the other side.
So what does this mean for you? It means you need people. And they need you, too.
How to stay connected with friends during cancer?
- Reach out to two or three friends. Keep those friendships going. Be intentional. Let the conversation be mutual—yes, talk about your cancer journey, but also listen your friend’s everyday stories. Friendship flows both ways.
- Join a group. If you didn’t have many close connections at the start of your journey, it’s never too late. A support group creates a place to belong, to connect, and to share with people who understand. You can also begin by joining one of our virtual women’s retreats. With gentle teaching and encouraging community you will find friendship and strength for your journey.
- Teach your friends how to walk this road with you. It’s okay to tell them what’s helpful and what’s not. Sometimes they won’t know what to say—help them out. You’ll learn together.
- Teach your family how to be there with you. This journey is difficult for both you and your family. Your family will go between grief for you and grief for themselves. Which means your spouse or children will, at times, struggle with their own emotions of fears, anger, depression, loss and grief. And for certain your family will not always say the most comforting things nor be there the way you hope. They will probably disappoint you leaving you hurt and maybe alone. Families are complicated, but now is the time to let go of resentment and small irritations. Make an effort to be there for each other, one struggle at a time, one day at a time. If it gets too complicated, reach out for professional help from a counselor or relationship coach.
- Keep being you. Cancer may be part of your story right now, but it is not the whole story. You are still you—funny, strong, sensitive, quirky, wise. Hold onto your identity and let it shine in your relationships.
- Stay connected to your world. You still have a family, a neighborhood, hobbies and routines. Keep participating in what makes life rich and meaningful. You have so much to give—and receive.
- Don’t isolate. This is the hardest part for some. But I gently encourage you: risk reaching out. Let someone be there for you. Hold someone’s hand—literally or figuratively. It truly makes a difference.
Reach out—we’d love to hear from you.
I’m cheering you on, friend. You are not alone. And here at Stage4Hope, we’re walking alongside you every step of the way.
If you’re looking for connection, encouragement, and growth, I invite you to join our upcoming women’s virtual retreat. It’s a time to rest, be renewed, and find community with other brave women walking their own journeys.
Author- Dr. Sharon May
The Importance of Social Support and Being Positive When Facing Cancer
- (2010, January 19). Type of social support matters for prediction of post-traumatic growth among cancer survivors.
- Coan, J.A., Schaefer, H.S., & Davidson, R.J. (2006). Lending a hand: Social regulation of the neural response to threat. Psychological Science.
Genetics Study Brings Lung Cancer Hope
Lung Cancer Genetics Study: New Hope Through Genetic Research
Learn how the Lung Cancer Genetics Study is collecting patient genetic and clinical data to accelerate discoveries, support personalized treatment, and bring new hope to families facing lung cancer.
A powerful new genetics study is offering fresh hope in the fight against lung cancer — especially for patients with rare mutations and those who’ve never smoked. The Lung Cancer Genetics Study, launched in 2024 by 23andMe and supported by nearly two dozen patient advocacy groups, is collecting genetic and clinical data from thousands of lung cancer patients to help uncover what drives this complex disease. It’s one of the first efforts of its kind to truly center patient voices from the beginning, ensuring that research reflects real-world experiences.
The project began with a friendship between two women living with lung cancer, Ilana Stromberg and Susan Troper Wojcicki, both mothers of five and determined to make a difference. Motivated by the lack of research and funding for lung cancer, especially RET-positive and other biomarker-driven subtypes, they envisioned a national lung cancer registry that could drive discoveries and lead to better, more personalized treatments. Susan’s passing in 2024 makes the study even more meaningful to those involved. Her legacy lives on through this groundbreaking initiative, which is expected to accelerate research and give families facing lung cancer a renewed sense of hope. (Source: 23andMe Blog)
Read the complete article here >
You’re Not Alone—Connect with the Stage 4 Hope Community
Whether you’re navigating treatment options, seeking emotional support, or trying to make sense of a new diagnosis, Stage 4 Hope is here for you. Learn more about topics like lung cancer genetics study by joining our community. Connect with others who understand your experience and gain access to trusted resources, upcoming events, medical updates, and invitations to supportive virtual gatherings.
Talc and Cancer: What to Know
Talc and Cancer: Risks, Asbestos Concerns & Safety Tips
Talc, a mineral found in some baby powders, cosmetics, medications, and even food, is now under serious review by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This attention comes after decades of debate and thousands of lawsuits linking talc to ovarian cancer—especially from using talc-containing powders in intimate areas. While the science isn’t yet settled, researchers agree on one troubling issue: talc is often contaminated with asbestos, a known cancer-causing substance. And because companies aren’t required to prove their talc is asbestos-free, consumers may be unknowingly exposed.
The strongest concern is for those who use talc-based powders or cosmetics regularly, especially around sensitive areas. Some studies suggest these users may face a higher risk of ovarian cancer. Experts recommend avoiding talc whenever possible and opting for safer alternatives like cornstarch. If you’ve used talc-containing products for many years—especially in your personal care routine—it’s worth discussing with your doctor. You can also check product safety through resources like the Environmental Working Group’s Skin Deep database. (Source: TIME Magazine)
Read the complete article here >
Resources for Living With Stage 4 Cancer
Learn more about topics like talc and cancer, along with other important aspects of living with Stage 4 cancer. Become a member of our community and gain access to trusted resources, upcoming events, medical updates, and invitations to supportive virtual gatherings.
Emotional Support Changes Everything
Emotional Support for Cancer Patients: Why Mindset Matters
Research shows emotional support and a hopeful, realistic mindset can improve well-being for people facing cancer. Learn why early support, optimism, and resilience matter.
When someone receives a cancer diagnosis, the focus often turns immediately to medical treatment. But research continues to show that emotional support and a positive outlook can play a powerful role in long-term well-being and healing. That’s why we offer online healing and support gatherings—so you can connect with others, be encouraged, and walk this journey together as a community.
Research Shows Early Support and a Balanced Mindset Improve Long-Term Well-Being
A study published in Psycho-oncology (2010) found that cancer survivors who received strong emotional support within three months of diagnosis experienced greater emotional health and post-traumatic growth even eight years later. The takeaway? Early support helps people make sense of their experience and fosters healing far beyond the treatment room.
Another study in Psychological Health (2016) revealed that patients with a generally positive disposition experienced less anxiety, depression, and impairment both at diagnosis and one year later. Their optimism didn’t deny the reality of illness—it helped them navigate it with more resilience.
Importantly, Psycho-oncology (2016) also emphasized the power of balance. Breast cancer patients who were able to “hold both hope and reality—expecting the best but preparing for the worst-” did better emotionally and functionally over time.
These studies all point to the same conclusion:
Positivity and meaningful support deeply impact how we experience cancer and how well we live through it.
Our ability to fight for life—to keep showing up with hope and purpose—comes from within, but it’s strengthened by faith, relationships, and the meaning we make in the face of suffering. It’s not about pretending everything is okay. It’s about walking through the valley with courage, supported and strengthened by those who walk with us.
Discover “The Beethoven Factor”—a powerful mindset for thriving through Stage 4 cancer. Learn how purpose, gratitude, and resilience can help you live fully, even in the storm.
Author- Dr. Sharon May
REFERENCES:
- Psycho-oncology. (2010, January 19). Type of social support matters for prediction of post-traumatic growth among cancer survivors.
- Psychological Health. (2016, May 31). Being positive despite illness: The contribution of positivity to the quality of life of cancer patients.
- Psycho-oncology. (2016, August 25). Expecting the best and being prepared for the worst
Immune Cells Team Up to Kill Tumors
How Immune Cells Work Together to Kill Tumors
How immune cells work together to kill tumors is becoming clearer thanks to a promising new discovery from scientists at Emory’s Winship Cancer Institute. They found that two types of immune cells — T helper 17 (Th17) cells and B cells — can work together to destroy solid tumors and help prevent them from returning. This partnership was unexpected, as most immunotherapies have focused on T cells alone. But in this study, Th17 cells only succeeded in protecting against cancer when B cells were present. These B cells didn’t just help — they produced powerful tumor-fighting antibodies that continued to protect the body long after treatment.
Why does this matter for patients with advanced or treatment-resistant cancer? This research points to a new path in immunotherapy: using the body’s own cells, not just to attack tumors, but to create lasting protection. It could lead to therapies that are more effective for cancers that haven’t responded to current treatments. And because the therapy worked even after the cancer came back in the study’s models, it holds special hope for preventing recurrence — a critical concern for anyone living with stage 4 cancer. A version of this therapy is already being developed for human use. (Source: Emory University Winship Cancer Institute)
Resources for Living With Stage 4 Cancer
Learn more about topics like how immune cells kill tumors, along with other important aspects of living with Stage 4 cancer. Become a member of our community to gain access to trusted resources, online support and education from Dr. Sharon May, Ph.D., LMFT, medical updates, and invitations to supportive virtual gatherings.
Thriving Through the Storm
Thriving with Stage 4 Cancer: The Beethoven Factor for Hope and Resilience
Discover “The Beethoven Factor”—a powerful mindset for thriving through Stage 4 cancer. Learn how purpose, gratitude, and resilience can help you live fully and support your mental health, even in the storm.
Hearing the words “You have cancer,” and then, “You have Stage 4 cancer,” can feel like the ground has given way beneath you. It’s a shattering, disorienting moment—one that changes everything. The question becomes: how do you find your footing again? How do you not only get through this cancer journey, but truly live in the midst of it, flourish along the way, and—dare I say—become a deeper, stronger, more wholehearted version of yourself?
Let me share with you a story I return to often—one I find both grounding and inspiring.
Beethoven, the great composer, slowly lost his hearing. At one point, the weight of his deafness drove him to deep despair. He became withdrawn and depressed. But years later, something shifted. He didn’t just endure his suffering—he rose above it. He composed and conducted his breathtaking 9th Symphony, Ode to Joy, while completely deaf.
Yes, deaf.
And yet that music was bursting with joy. Because of the adversity he faced—and because of how he faced it—Beethoven discovered a deeper strength and a richer life. He wrote of finding no more room for self-pity, regret, or fear. He learned to embrace his life as it was and chose to find meaning, purpose, and even joy in the present moment.
This is what Dr. Paul Pearsall, a cancer survivor himself, called The Beethoven Factor. He believed that it’s not the pain, fear, or loss in life that defines us—it’s how we respond. It’s how we allow our adversity to shape us.
And that’s the key:
- How do we let our pain refine us, grow us, and awaken us to live more intentionally?
- What if, through the cancer journey, you could become more grounded, more compassionate, more alive to the beauty of the everyday? What if your life—as it is—could still be full of love, laughter, peace, and meaning?
You are not just surviving cancer. You are discovering who you are becoming because of it.
So take a deep breath. Feel your strength rise. Lean on others. Let joy and gratitude slip into your day, even in small moments. And keep showing up—as your truest, bravest, most resilient self.
This is how you thrive. This is the Beethoven Factor
Author- Dr. Sharon May
REFERENCES:
- Pearsall, P. (2003). The Beethoven Factor: The New Positive Psychology of Hardiness, Healing, and Hope. Hampton Roads Publishing.
Resources for Living With Stage 4 Cancer
Learn more about topics like thriving with stage 4 cancer, along with other important aspects of living with stage 4 cancer. Become a member of our community to gain access to trusted resources, online support and education from Dr. Sharon May, Ph.D., LMFT, medical updates, and invitations to supportive virtual gatherings.
The Connection Between Cancer and Mental Health
Cancer and Mental Health: Coping Strategies, Support, and Hope
Cancer impacts more than the body—it affects mental and emotional health too. Learn practical ways to manage anxiety, build support, and protect your well-being during treatment and beyond.
When you hear the words “you have cancer,” your world is turned upside down. Everything changes—your body, your daily rhythm, your relationships, your responsibilities—and with that, your emotional and mental health can take a powerful blow. As a therapist and someone walking alongside many people facing life-impacting circumstances, I want to gently remind you: Your mental and emotional well-being matter. Greatly.
We often focus on the physical toll cancer takes—surgeries, treatments, fatigue—but cancer doesn’t just affect the body. It impacts your mind, your heart, your mood, your ability to cope, and your sense of identity. And that’s where we need to pause and pay attention.
In fact, the American Cancer Society reported that while the risk of dying from cancer has decreased over the past 30 years, the number of people diagnosed with cancer continues to rise. In 2024, over 2 million people in the U.S. were expected to be diagnosed with cancer—nearly 5,000 new diagnoses every day. So yes, cancer is more than just a medical issue. It’s a human experience, and it stirs everything inside of us.
You are not weak if you feel overwhelmed.
It’s completely understandable to feel fear, sadness, panic, confusion, or even anger. Life as you knew it has changed. You may grieve the life you had, feel uncertain about your future, and wonder how to keep going. The shock of the diagnosis, the fatigue from treatment, and the weight of loss—these things are real and valid.
That’s why it’s so important to care for your emotional and mental health. Your mind and body are connected, and what you feel emotionally will absolutely influence how you respond physically. If you’ve already struggled with anxiety or depression before your diagnosis, you may find those feelings amplified now. You’re not alone in this—and it’s okay to ask for support.
8 Practical Ways to Protect Your Mental Health During Cancer
Let me share 8 meaningful practices recommended by Dr. Daniel Amen, a trusted voice in brain health, along with a few of my own additions:
1. Challenge Your Negative Thoughts
Don’t believe every scary, negative thought about what might happen that runs through your mind. Ask yourself: Is this true? Is this helpful? Gently interrupt your doomsday spirals and look for a new perspective. Your thoughts shape how you feel—so let’s train them to be kind and wise.
2. Tame Your Inner Dragons
Those fearful inner voices—the ones that tell you “you’re not enough” or “you won’t make it”—can roar loud. But you are allowed to speak back to them with truth, compassion, and courage. Name them. Face them. Then gently hush them. Replace them with beliefs and words of hope, courage and the love that can affirm your strength to get you through.
3. Surround Yourself with Support
Having safe people around you—whether it’s a few close friends, a support group, or a community like Stage4Hope—makes a difference. We were created for connection. Don’t walk this road alone. Join us in one of our retreats or women’s groups where you can be encouraged and known.
4. Keep Doing What Brings You Joy
Maybe it looks different now, but you can still write, paint, sing, bake, help someone else, or enjoy the simple beauty of a good book or warm tea. Purpose and joy are healing—keep reaching for them.
5. Nourish Your Body Kindly
Eat well. Choose anti-inflammatory, life-giving foods. Stay hydrated. Limit sugar and alcohol. And—just as important—treat yourself now and then to something yummy that makes your heart smile. That’s nourishment too.
6. Create Calming Rituals
Routines can ground us. Whether it’s a morning walk, a moment of prayer, deep breathing, reading Scripture, journaling, or putting sticky notes of hope around your room—these small acts can anchor you.
7. Nurture Your Spiritual Life
This is a sacred time to reconnect with your Creator. Many people facing cancer find themselves longing for something deeper. Talk to God, ask your questions, reconnect with your sense of a higher power, let yourself be held by His love. He’s not afraid of your tears or doubts—He’s with you in it all.
8. Keep Moving Forward
Even if it’s slow or small—keep going. Get out of bed. Stretch. Take a short walk. Movement lifts the fog. It releases feel-good chemicals. It reminds your body that you’re still here, still fighting, still living. Don’t underestimate its power.
Your mental health is not secondary. It’s essential.
It’s okay to feel broken at times. It’s okay to cry, to ask for help, to rest when the world feels too heavy. But I want you to also know: You can feel joy again. You can find beauty again. You can rise again.
Your quality of life is not just about how your body feels—it’s about how your heart is holding up. So give your mental health the care and space it deserves. Let your emotional well-being be part of your healing.
And remember, you are not alone. We’re here for you at Stage4Hope, ready to walk this journey with you. Learn more about topics like cancer and mental health, along with other important aspects of living with Stage 4 cancer. Become a member of our community to gain access to trusted resources, online support and education from Dr. Sharon May, Ph.D., LMFT, medical updates, and invitations to supportive virtual gatherings.
Author- Dr. Sharon May
Stage4Hope
- American Cancer Society. (2024). Cancer Facts & Figures.
- Amen, D.G. (n.d.). Amen Clinics. https://www.amenclinics.com/
FIBER It Does a Body Good
Fiber and Cancer Prevention: Why It Matters
Should you be eating more fiber to help prevent cancer? And how much do you really need to reduce your risk?
It could be time for a fiber tune-up of your diet. Most American adults get only half the recommended daily dose, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Clinical dietitian-nutritionist Cara Anselmo, MS, RDN, is an expert in breast cancer nutrition and is a certified specialist in obesity and weight management.
“Eating more fiber is often overlooked as one of the healthiest things we can do for ourselves,” Anselmo says.
Fiber not only improves heart health, reduces diabetes risk, and aids in weight control, it may reduce the risk of several common cancers such as colorectal cancer.
How Does Fiber Reduce the Risk of Colorectal Cancer?
Dietary fiber has long been linked to a lower risk of certain types of cancer, particularly colorectal cancer. Colon cancer rates are increasing among young adults. Because less than 10% of adults are getting enough fiber, scientists think this trend may be connected.
One of the main ways that fiber helps to protect against colon cancer, according to Anselmo, is by fostering a healthy population of bacteria in the colon, known as the microbiome. Fiber remains in the colon after other components of the diet become absorbed by the body.
“When fiber is fermented by the bacteria in our colon,” Anselmo says, “it produces metabolites, which reduce inflammation and protect the colon cells from becoming cancerous. These metabolites can also activate our immune system and increase anti-cancer immunity.”
Fiber also has several other effects that improve our metabolic health, which indirectly lowers the risk of several cancers. For example, fiber can increase the speed at which food passes through the gut, which can lower absorption and exposure time to less healthy foods we may have consumed. Fiber can also lower cholesterol levels.
What Is a High-Fiber Diet?
A high-fiber diet means you eat foods that are rich in this type of carbohydrate, found mainly in plant foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, peas, and legumes. Consuming more than 25 to 30 grams of fiber per day is generally considered to be a high-fiber diet.
What Are the Kinds of Fiber?
There are two main types of dietary fiber — soluble and insoluble. Both types of fiber are healthy and can lower cancer risk.
Soluble fiber attracts water into the intestines and becomes a gel. It can help lower blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Foods higher in soluble fiber include:
• Oats
• Beans
• Citrus fruits
• Peas
Insoluble fiber doesn’t dissolve in water. It can help move food through your digestive system, absorb water to provide bulk, and may help prevent constipation. Foods higher in insoluble fiber include:
• Whole grains
• Some vegetables
• Nuts and seeds
How Much Fiber Do You Need?
The MSK registered dietitian-nutritionist team recommends that most people eat 25 grams of fiber per day. “Consume half of your fiber from whole foods like whole grains, vegetables, and beans,” Anselmo advises. “Fiber-supplemented products are not as effective as whole foods and may not have additional nutrients that help you reach your optimal health.”
Anselmo also stresses the importance of staying well hydrated when increasing dietary fiber in order to minimize potential symptoms such as bloating and abdominal discomfort as your gastrointestinal tract adapts to new changes. She reminds patients to always ask their cancer care team if they should follow any special diet before, during, or after treatment.
How Is MSK Researching the Role of Fiber and Cancer?
Studies are underway to help determine a person’s optimal dose of fiber to prevent cancer, based on their biology, genetics, and lifestyle.
MSK is also investigating which bacteria are involved in fermenting fiber into the metabolites that protect against various cancers, including breast, skin, prostate, colon, and rectal cancer. If scientists can identify a specific bacterial signature, other interventions such as bacterial transplants may work to reduce cancer risks.
Finally, there are ongoing studies testing whether fiber intake and certain probiotic compounds might enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapy and immunotherapy. (Source: Memorial Sloan Kettering News- 2025, Issue 1)
Resources for Living With Stage 4 Cancer
Learn more about topics like fiber and cancer prevention, the benefits of fasting, along with other important aspects of living with Stage 4 cancer. Become a member of our community to gain access to trusted resources, online support and education from Dr. Sharon May, Ph.D., LMFT, medical updates, and invitations to supportive virtual gatherings.
Boosting Cancer Immunity Through Fasting
Fasting and Cancer Immunity Explained
How Fasting May Supercharge the Immune System to Better Fight Cancer…
More than a dozen types of cancer are sensitive to obesity, which can cause inflammation that damages cells, increased hormone levels, and other changes. So it makes sense for researchers to explore whether fasting to slow body fat and improve metabolic health might improve outcomes.
Now laboratory researchers at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK) and their collaborators have found that fasting can SUPERCHARGE the immune system’s “natural killer” cells. (Natural killer cells, or NK cells, for short, are a type of white blood cell that can kill abnormal or damaged cells, such as cancer cells.)
Fasting can reprogram the metabolism of natural killer cells, the team found in a study of mice. Those reprogrammed cells are better able to survive in the harsh environment in and around tumors. Their cancer-fighting ability is stronger, too.
The research, which was published in Immunity — one of the top immunology journals — explains how natural killer cells get reprogrammed during periods of fasting. The researchers are optimistic that what they’re learning in animal models could help make human immunotherapies more effective in people.
“Tumors are very hungry,” says immunologist Joseph Sun, PhD, the study’s senior author. “They use up the essential nutrients flowing to normal tissue. In that nutrient-starved environment, it is harder for natural killer cells to survive, so their function is impaired. Fasting reprograms these natural killer cells to better survive in this suppressive environment.”
What Are Natural Killer Cells?
Natural killer cells get their name because they can destroy a threat without having to recognize that threat — unlike other immune cells, called T cells, which require exposure to a specific threat in order to target it.
In general, the more NK cells that are present within a tumor, the better the prognosis is for the patient.
How Fasting Reprograms and Redistributes NK Cells
For the study, mice with cancer were fasted for 24 hours twice a week and then allowed to eat freely in between fasts. While the mice did not lose weight, the fasting had a profound effect on their natural killer immune cells.
Just as happens in humans, fasted mice saw a drop in their glucose levels and a rise in free fatty acids, which are lipids released by fat cells.
“During each of these fasting cycles, NK cells learned to use these fatty acids as an alternative fuel source to glucose,” says study first author Rebecca Delconte, PhD, a postdoctoral fellow in the Sun Lab. “This really improves their response against cancer and helps them survive in the harsh environment around the tumor.”
Fasting also led NK cells to travel to and interact with different parts of the body in big numbers. Many of the NK cells travel into the bone marrow, where they are programmed to develop a more powerful response against cancer. Meanwhile, NK cells that travel to the spleen undergo a separate reprogramming, making them better able to use lipids as a fuel source.
“With both of these mechanisms put together, we find that NK cells will move to the tumor and be primed to better kill the cancer cells,” Dr. Delconte says. “They’re more able to survive in this harsh environment, and their power is strengthened against cancer cells.”
Potential To Improve Cancer Treatments
There are several potential opportunities to advance the mouse-model research toward treating patients in the clinic, the researchers say.
First, clinical trials are already beginning to study the safety and effectiveness of fasting in combination with standard treatments. Another avenue would be to identify drugs that could mimic the underlying mechanisms without requiring patients to fast. Third, small molecules might be able to be put into a pill and taken outside of the body and then administered back to patients to improve treatment effects.
Right now, however, more clinical data is still needed about the effects of fasting for people with cancer, MSK researchers say.
There are many different types of fasting, and some might be helpful while others might be harmful. Patients should speak with their doctors about what’s safe and healthy for their individual situation. (Source: Memorial Sloan Kettering News- 2025, Issue 1)
Resources for Living With Stage 4 Cancer
Learn more about topics like fasting and cancer immunity, fiber, and exercise. Gain access to trusted resources, online support and education from Dr. Sharon May, Ph.D., LMFT, medical updates, and invitations to supportive virtual gatherings.
A New Cancer Therapy: Exercise
How Exercise May Help Improve Energy, Brain Function, and Recovery During and After Cancer Treatment
Many people facing cancer treatment are told to rest—and while rest is important, research is showing something surprising:
Exercise may be one of the most powerful tools to support recovery during and after cancer treatment.
In fact, new research suggests that movement doesn’t just improve energy and strength—it may even play a role in how the body responds to cancer itself.
What Cancer Patients and Astronauts Have in Common
New cancer patients may be surprised to learn they share something in common with astronauts in space.
According to researchers at Memorial Sloan Kettering, the effects of inactivity during cancer treatment can be similar to what astronauts experience in zero gravity. Both can lead to:
- Loss of muscle strength
- Reduced cardiovascular fitness
- Changes in brain function
NASA researchers even use the term “space fog”—a condition that closely resembles what cancer patients often call chemo brain.
What Is Chemo Brain (Chemo Brain Fog)?
Chemo brain, also called chemo brain fog, refers to cognitive changes that can happen during or after cancer treatment.
People often describe it as:
- Difficulty concentrating
- Memory problems
- Trouble finding the right words
- Mental “slowness” or fogginess
These symptoms can be frustrating and may affect work, relationships, and daily life.
Chemo brain is not just “in your head.” It is a real and recognized side effect of cancer treatment, likely caused by a combination of:
- Chemotherapy effects on the brain
- Inflammation
- Fatigue
- Stress and emotional strain
How Long Does Chemo Fatigue Last?
Fatigue is one of the most common side effects of cancer treatment.
For many people:
- Fatigue begins during treatment
- It may continue for weeks or months afterward
- Some experience longer-term fatigue, especially after intensive treatment
Unlike normal tiredness, chemo fatigue does not always improve with rest alone. This is where new research is changing the conversation.
How to Regain Energy After Chemotherapy
It may seem counterintuitive, but one of the most effective ways to regain energy after chemotherapy is through gentle, consistent movement.
Research shows that exercise can:
- Improve energy levels
- Reduce fatigue
- Support heart and lung function
- Help rebuild muscle strength
- Improve mood and mental clarity
Even small amounts of movement—like walking a few times a week—can make a meaningful difference.
A Shift in Thinking: Exercise as Therapy
Contrary to popular belief, the best way to recover from cancer treatment is not always to stay in bed.
Exercise physiologists at Memorial Sloan Kettering emphasize that:
- Regular movement improves both physical and mental health
- Exercise helps reduce long-term side effects of treatment
- Patients who exercise experience less decline in overall fitness
In one study, people undergoing chemotherapy experienced a 15% drop in fitness levels, similar to a decade of aging—but exercising just three times per week significantly reduced that decline.
Exercise Guidelines for Cancer Survivors
While every person’s situation is different, general exercise guidelines for cancer survivors often include:
- Start slow and build gradually
- Aim for light to moderate activity (like walking)
- Work toward 150–225 minutes per week, if possible
- Include both aerobic activity and strength training
- Listen to your body and rest when needed
It’s always best to speak with your care team or an exercise specialist before starting a new routine.
Can Exercise Help Chemo Brain?
Emerging research suggests that exercise may also help improve cognitive function.
Chemo Brain Exercises That May Help:
- Walking or light cardio (improves blood flow to the brain)
- Strength training (supports brain-body connection)
- Balance and coordination exercises
- Mind-body practices like yoga
Exercise may help:
- Improve focus and attention
- Support memory function
- Reduce mental fatigue
This is one of the reasons researchers are studying exercise not just as recovery—but as a form of therapy.
A Groundbreaking Clinical Trial on Exercise and Cancer
In a first-of-its-kind clinical trial, researchers studied how different “doses” of exercise affected men with prostate cancer before surgery.
Participants were assigned structured exercise plans ranging from:
- 90 minutes per week
- Up to 450 minutes per week
The results were surprising.
Most of the benefit occurred at 225 minutes per week (about 3 hours and 45 minutes)—with no added benefit beyond that level. This challenges the idea that more exercise is always better.
Can Exercise Affect Cancer Itself?
Researchers are now exploring whether exercise can do more than improve symptoms.
Early evidence suggests exercise may:
- Influence tumor biology
- Improve how treatments work
- Potentially slow cancer progression
While more research is needed, this opens the door to a new concept:
Exercise as part of cancer treatment—not just recovery.
Finding a Sense of Control During Cancer
For many patients, exercise provides something just as important as physical benefits—a sense of control.
During a time when so much feels uncertain, movement can be:
- A daily routine
- A personal goal
- A way to actively participate in your healing
As one patient shared, exercise became something “100% under my control” during treatment.
Why This Matters
This research is changing how we think about cancer care.
Instead of focusing only on treatment, there is growing recognition that:
- Supporting the whole body matters
- Recovery is active, not passive
- Small, consistent steps can lead to meaningful improvements
Exercise is not a cure—but it is a powerful tool.
(Source: Memorial Sloan Kettering News- 2025, Issue 1)
Resources for Living With Stage 4 Cancer
Learn more about topics like exercise and cancer treatment, along with other important aspects of living with Stage 4 cancer. Become a member of our community to gain access to trusted resources, online support and education from Dr. Sharon May, Ph.D., LMFT, medical updates, and invitations to supportive virtual gatherings.
Innovations Bring Hope to Lung Patients
New Lung Cancer Innovations Offering Hope to Patients
At Memorial Sloan Kettering, cutting-edge lung cancer care is changing lives—especially for those with advanced disease. Take Jen Cosgrove, a mother diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer that had spread. Thanks to precise testing, doctors found her tumor had an ALK gene mutation, which responds well to targeted therapy called alectinib. Jen saw dramatic improvements within days and has been able to share important milestones with her children she once feared missing. MSK’s expert care, innovative treatments, and thorough diagnostics give patients like Jen hope and more time with their loved ones.
New Discoveries in Lung Cancer Detection
MSK researchers are also uncovering new types of lung cancer and better ways to detect it early. For example, they identified a rare form called atypical small cell lung carcinoma in younger patients who never smoked. Early detection remains critical, and MSK is developing noninvasive tools like the “E-nose,” a device that detects cancer-related chemicals in breath, which could make screening easier and less stressful. Lab studies on lung stem cells and tumor growth help scientists understand how cancer starts and grows, leading to better treatments. For patients facing lung cancer, these advances mean earlier diagnosis, more personalized care, and brighter hope for the future. (Source: Memorial Sloan Kettering)
Read the complete article here >
Resources for Living With Stage 4 Cancer
Learn more about topics like lung cancer innovations. Become a member of our community to gain access to trusted resources, as well as online support and education from Dr. Sharon May, Ph.D., LMFT.
Wendy’s Lung Cancer Diagnosis
Living Strong With Lung Cancer: Wendy’s ROS1-Positive Story
Wendy Lassen Feldman’s lung cancer diagnosis came after she insisted on scans despite her doctor’s initial doubts. Diagnosed in 2016 with stage 3 ROS1-positive lung cancer, Wendy faced her treatment with hope and determination. She underwent chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery—all while maintaining her daily routines and fighting to stay strong for her children. Her medical team’s confidence that she would be alive in five years gave her vital encouragement during a difficult time.
Wendy’s message to others is clear: don’t give up. Lung cancer isn’t always a death sentence, and survival rates don’t define individual outcomes. She believes in embracing cancer as part of life without letting it control her. Inspired by the Lung Cancer Research Foundation’s dedication to research, Wendy actively supports their work, helping to fund advancements that bring new options and hope to lung cancer patients everywhere. (Source: Lung Cancer Research Foundation)
Resources for Living With Stage 4 Cancer
Become a member of our community to gain access to trusted resources, online support and education from Dr. Sharon May, Ph.D., LMFT, medical updates, and invitations to supportive virtual gatherings.
Maureen’s Story: Too Busy for Cancer
Maureen’s Story: “Too Busy for Cancer” With Stage 4 Lung Cancer
Maureen’s lung cancer diagnosis came unexpectedly after a routine scan. Initially diagnosed at stage 1, her cancer progressed to stage 4 in late 2021, a moment that brought deep fear given her family history. Finding she had a KRAS mutation, Maureen became active in lung cancer communities supporting research specific to her cancer type. Motivated by the limited funding for lung cancer research, she began advocating for increased support by contacting lawmakers and raising awareness through events like the Free to Breathe Walk.
Today, Maureen embraces life fully, saying she’s “too busy for cancer.” Retired alongside her husband, she looks forward to being the nurse for her daughters when they have babies — a symbol of hope and life beyond cancer. Her story highlights the power of advocacy, community, and hope in the face of stage 4 lung cancer. (Source: Lung Cancer Research Foundation)
Read the complete article here >
Resources for Living With Stage 4 Cancer
Become a member of our community to gain access to trusted resources, online support and education from Dr. Sharon May, Ph.D., LMFT, medical updates, and invitations to supportive virtual gatherings.
Tejal’s Story: Strength in the Fight
Tejal’s Stage 4 Lung Cancer Story: Strength in the Fight
When Tejal Patel was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer, it was a shock, especially since she never smoked and lives a healthy lifestyle. The diagnosis felt isolating, bringing confusion and stigma, as many still wrongly assume lung cancer is caused by lifestyle choices. But Tejal found determination in her fight—not just to live and watch her twin boys grow up, but also to raise awareness and break the stigma, especially for women like her in the South Asian community.
Tejal credits the Lung Cancer Research Foundation (LCRF) for vital support and hope. Through funding life-changing research, including early detection methods and new treatments, LCRF is helping improve survival and quality of life for lung cancer patients. Tejal’s story is a powerful reminder that lung cancer can affect anyone and that ongoing research and community support are essential to keep advancing care and offering hope. (Source: Lung Cancer Research Foundation)
Read the complete article here >
Resources for Living With Stage 4 Cancer
Become a member of our community to gain access to trusted resources, as well as online support and education from Dr. Sharon May, Ph.D., LMFT.
