A Day At Sloan Kettering.....

I spent yesterday at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, first at some programs, and then at my surgeon’s research lab, where they are doing amazing studies on colorectal cancers.  I saw my doctors, but purely on a social basis.

We traveled there for the luncheon discussion from their Integrative Medicine group.  Some important information I took away:

First: regarding acupuncture:  there is a lot of good research showing favorable affects for many of chemo side effects.  Acupuncture has also proven useful for ileus.  If you are in the hospital with ileus (not uncommon for us) ask if they have an integrative med unit, and an acupuncturist to work with you.

Also regarding acupuncture:  Dr. Deng made it very clear that acupuncture on cancer patients needs to be performed by someone who knows oncology, as there are certain points to be avoided.

Next:  on botanicals and supplements.  Dr. Kathleen Wesa presented, and I’ve referred to her on-line lectures for excellent information.  While she emphasized that many supplements are not good for cancer patients undergoing treatment, as they strengthen the cancer cells as well as the healthy cells, she particularly mentioned that anti-oxidants should not be taken with the platinum drugs (Oxaliplatin) or during radiation treatment.  These treatments work by oxidizing the cancer cells; anti-oxidants counter that effect.  A side note:  you do not want to take supplements to strengthen the immune system if you’ve had any transplant or some of the blood cancers.  Enhanced immune systems are more likely to reject transplants.

 The next program was my husband giving a concert of folk and traditional music in the patient lounge at the hospital.  My role there was to tell them that I was part of their family, having spent a month at MSK following my cancer surgery.  I was also able to give some hope, as I told them that I am Stage IV, but healthy at 7 years out from diagnosis.  Patients and caregivers enjoyed the music, and I think appreciated the encouragement from one of their own.

We then received a private tour of one of the research labs doing fascinating research on the roles of stem cells in cancer, in particular colorectal cancers.  I was privy to unpublished information, which I will not share out of respect for the scientists and doctors involved.  What I can say is the direction they are taking may well lead to a very different approach to cancer treatment, with more emphasis on cure rather than control.  Now the only way to definitely get rid of cancer cells at the source is surgical.  We were very privileged to hear this presentation, and I’m very excited for all of us.  They are making significant advances in understanding cancer cells.