The last time I wrote an article COVID-19 was not something we were so worried about in the United States; it was something we were watching unfold in China and Italy. But, in a blink of an eye, it started to unfold in New York City. I think a lot of us, myself included, thought… Read more »
When you hear the three words “you have cancer,” your world just stops. You go into shock. You can only hear the pounding of your heart fearfully beating within your chest. It is that moment your body goes numb and your world turns upside down. The joy of everyday life is sucked out of your… Read more »
With February (“love and heart month”) behind us, that time when you give a little more – flowers, cards, gifts or an “I love you” to that special someone – have you ever taken a step back to ask, “What if I gave as much love to myself as I give to others?” Well, that… Read more »
You just got off the phone and are in shock that your friend has cancer. You are the best friend, spouse, parent, volunteer…everyone’s cheerleader. How this could happen? The New Year is here and everyone is supposed to be happy and celebrating – not talking cancer! You feel helpless. Like any good person raised in… Read more »
It was early November and there was an itch near the top of my breast that would not go away. I vividly remember how annoying the itch was and thinking I felt a lump. During a boot camp workout, I asked my friend what she thought it might be, and of course she said what… Read more »
On July 15, 2019, I celebrated my third Cancerversary (a special word in the cancer world to celebrate another year of being cancer-free). It reflects the day that I finished chemo, weekly doctor appointments and that safety net of support. Not a day goes by that I am not thankful to be alive, so I… Read more »
Support comes in many forms, especially when someone is going through cancer. We think about how awful everything that they must endure is – treatments, doctor appointments, fatigue, stress and so much more. Hopefully, the person going through cancer has a good support system and a caregiver that will be by their side through thick… Read more »
After you survive cancer you become an expert by experience and are often the first or second call to ask questions or get referrals from a newly diagnosed friend or family member. Over the past two years since I have been NED (no evidence of detection), I have had over 10 loved ones newly diagnosed.… Read more »
For fifteen years, CancerPartners (formerly Gilda’s Club Desert Cities) provided support and free services for those affected by cancer, their families and friends. The non-profit played an important role as hospitals and facilities delivered top medical care, but often left clients to figure out the rest on their own. CancerPartners filled that void as a… Read more »
Here we are again at another holiday season, and whether you observe religious or spiritual traditions or take part in a more cultural expression of the holiday spirit, it is time to prepare yourself emotionally for what that means as you navigate your cancer treatment at this emotionally charged time of year. Between the planning,… Read more »
Shay Moraga is a triple negative breast cancer survivor and shares her journey with Desert Health® readers in an ongoing column… I HAVE CANCER… Those are the dreaded words you never want to hear from a family member or friend. The person telling you those words is more than likely completely overwhelmed and in shock.… Read more »
Shay Moraga is a triple negative breast cancer survivor and shares her journey with Desert Health® readers in an ongoing column… Do you ever wonder why so many people turn to yoga after a life changing experience? It is because yoga heals us in so many ways. Yoga and cancer both teach us to accept… Read more »
Health and wellness industry leaders gathered in May at the Cambria Gallery to celebrate past Desert Health Wellness Award nominees. Networking, healthy nosh, and vibrant enthusiasm ensued as plans for the 2019 Wellness Awards were unveiled. The Greater Palm Springs CVB was also on hand to present their Live Your Wellest campaign launching later this year.… Read more »
The Heavens certainly have been earning their share of 5-star angels this year, including our beloved Edith Morrey who left us two weeks before her 106th birthday. Our friendship was one of great admiration; she was Desert Health’s biggest fan and I was hers. In our last visit, all she said was ‘thank you,’ two… Read more »
When someone is in the midst of medical treatment for cancer, they may not have the strength or desire for vigorous exercise. But gentle forms of movement such as yoga, tai chi, and qigong can be extremely beneficial in a treatment plan that addresses spirit, mind and body. Gentle movement can also be beneficial post-treatment,… Read more »
Once thought of only as the obscure practice of hippies and gurus, yoga is now being recognized by all as a healing modality for that which ails you. Whether you have physical, mental or spiritual deficiencies, yoga can – and will – enhance your wellbeing. Since the 2016 report in the Mayo Clinic Proceedings gave… Read more »
Shay Moraga was diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer at the beginning of 2016 and shares her journey with Desert Health® readers in this ongoing column. In the July/August issue, she shared her growing fear that her cancer had returned…. As I sat up in bed I prayed. I prayed to take this fear away… Read more »
The third annual Desert Health® Wellness Awards once again united the valley’s doctors, health practitioners and health enthusiasts in an evening of celebration, education and recognition. The sellout event began with an outdoor reception and dinner followed by guest speaker Joseph Scherger, MD, vice president of primary care for Eisenhower Medical Center and 2016 Integrative… Read more »
The First Annual Wellness Awards Nominee Reception was held at the Eisenhower Wellness Institute and brought together top doctors, yogis, fitness and health practitioners, non-profits, chefs, educators and more for an evening of networking and celebrating achievements. Healthy offerings were provided by Salads in a Jar with libations from Bonterra Organic Wines and Mad River… Read more »
Shay Moraga’s combat with the big C is being chronicled in Desert Health, and is a valuable contribution. Her cancer is now in remission, which is glorious news after all she has suffered. Her battle has been challenging. In addition to medical intervention, she prevailed with her courage, persistence, her love for life and always… Read more »