A New Breath of Care for our Retired Heroes: Cancer Resource Alliance Supports the RMA

4/30/3019 Brooklyn, NY -- The RMA (Retired Member’s Association of the FDNY) welcomed some of the leading patient advocates of the First Responders Cancer Resource to present its cancer awareness message to the packed room of career firefighters.  Among the many topics covered were: Early Detection & Prevention, the value of a SECOND OPINION, current mortality rates and the vigilant health message of “Get Checked Now!” 

It was an evening of great solidarity for the members united by the leadership of President and membership chairman Jim Hayhurst.  This highly respected organization (founded in 1946) is comprised of retired firefighters of all ranks chartered to bring access to top professionals and direct supporters of this special community.  Proud attendees express their appreciation for the RMA as one of the major groups that seek out valuable information and contributors to help their members stay current on safety, health, information about pensions and other vital matters to all ex-firefighters.  This event in Brooklyn is one of five main events offered each year alongside their second location in New Hyde Park, NY.  Mr. Hayhurst expressed significant interest in the “Get Checked Now!” message for his men with the hopes of ‘saving at least one life from this or any other health program’ introduced to the RMA.

The 2019 outreach calendar of FDNY presentations reflect the growing momentum of interest gained in cancer awareness from all the firefighter orgs and firehouse events.  The standard speaking tour is comprised of program director Lennard Gettz and retired firefighter-turned health ambassador Sal Banchitta.  Mr. Gettz usually delivers highlights of NYCRA’s educational programs and details the many available healthcare innovations and advancements of the medical community for any cancer victims.  Sal Banchitta carries the discussion as a retired firefighter and a 9/11 responder by underscoring the many types of toxins and cancerous events that firefighters may be exposed to in their career- all leading to staying proactive about their health and safety. Furthermore, as a patient of a battery of clinicians, Sal promotes his audience to “ask a lot of questions, do your own personal research and seek peace of mind by getting a SECOND OPINION about complex health matters”.

RMA member John Signorile and 3rd VP in charge of good and welfare of the Columbia Association of FDNY gave major support to the First Responders Cancer Resource’s public mission. “We were very impressed with this program and its cancer screening breakdown”, says Mr. Signorile. “You don't have to have an issue to come in for a screening—that’s a big plus. Most of my fellow members were impressed by that and look forward to getting tested because you don't want to find out when it's too late and you have an issue…. it's better to be proactive in these cases.”   John Signorile also found the benefit of the philosophy behind the Second Opinion program- “I’m friends with one of the top oncologists in the city who always tell me to get multiple tests and have more than one doctor check you out… so many things may be overlooked by one pair of eyes."

Dr. Robert Bard, one of the top medical advisors of the First Responders screening program & active cancer diagnostic specialist in NYC made a surprise appearance to speak in this venue.  “He insisted on being part of this meeting and got on the mic to engage with the members.  Having him at the RMA meeting was such a blessing because he added that science angle to the whole presentation”, says Sal Banchitta.  Dr. Bard opened with an introduction of his 45+ years of experience as a tumor analyst and a “cancer finder”.  He shared actual references from his own patients as well as some of the most common cases that plague first responders. Dr. Bard embraced the bevy of questions which continued long after the presentation where members sat privately with Dr. Bard one at a time-- exploring their deepest concerns that deserved the uncompromising attention that Dr. Bard is known for.

One of the major highlights of the event was delivered by Ms. Cheri Ambrose, volunteer supporter of NYCRA First Responder and head of the international Male Breast Cancer Coalition.  Having campaigned publicly about cancer awareness to countless individuals, she expressed that the biggest underlying challenge in reaching our society is DENIAL. She boldly takes credit for the prompted “NOW” in the group’s “Get Checked Now!” mantra.

Cheri also concluded the group presentation by presenting one of NYCRA’s highest honors to Jim Hayhurst for his work with the RMA. “As advocates of cancer education and safety awareness, organizers like Jim are some of our greatest champions…  we appreciate community leaders (like Jim) who go above and beyond to build, maintain and expand the pillars of unity and loving support for our heroes. They give so much of themselves toward the betterment of others’ lives-- especially all the members of such a worthwhile org as the RMA.”

NYCRA’s First Responders Cancer Resource awareness team continues to forge an unending advocacy work for all emergency responders. They are scheduled this year to present in over 35 community groups in the NYC and Long Island areas.  Dr. Bard’s busy NYC practice continues to tirelessly screen all newcomers, conducting Early Detection and Prevention scans- especially firefighters (both active and retired) as part of his commitment to the “Get Checked Now!” program.

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Disclaimer & Copyright Notice: The materials provided on this website/web-based article are copyrighted and the intellectual property of the publishers/producers (The NY Cancer Resource Alliance/IntermediaWorx inc. and Bard Diagnostic Research & Educational Programs). It is provided publicly strictly for informational purposes within non-commercial use and not for purposes of resale, distribution, public display or performance. Unless otherwise indicated on this web based page, sharing, re-posting, re-publishing of this work is strictly prohibited without due permission from the publishers.  Also, certain content may be licensed from third-parties. The licenses for some of this Content may contain additional terms. When such Content licenses contain additional terms, we will make these terms available to you on those pages (which his incorporated herein by reference).The publishers/producers of this site and its contents such as videos, graphics, text, and other materials published are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, please always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified health provider. Do not postpone or disregard any professional medical advice over something you may have seen or read on this website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 9-1-1 immediately.  This website does not support, endorse or recommend any specific products, tests, physicians, procedures, treatment opinions or other information that may be mentioned on this site. Referencing any content or information seen or published in this website or shared by other visitors of this website is solely at your own risk. The publishers/producers of this Internet web site reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to modify, disable access to, or discontinue, temporarily or permanently, all or any part of this Internet web site or any information contained thereon without liability or notice to you.



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References:

1) NY Cancer Resource Alliance
2) First Responders Cancer Resource
3) Retired Members' Association of FDNY
4) The Columbia Association of FDNY
5) Bard Cancer Diagnostics
6) Male Breast Cancer Coalition
7) Integrative Medicine of NY
8) Awareness for a Cure
9) LI2DAY Walk

9/11 FIRST RESPONDER BECOMES PUBLIC ADVOCATE FOR CANCER PREVENTION AND SURVIVORSHIP

The model of the FIRST RESPONDERS CANCER RESOURCE (formerly 9/11CANCERSCAN) awareness program was founded in part with the technical technical collaboration and personal insight of (Ret) Firefighter SALVATORE "SAL" BANCHITTA from Engine 316 of the 49 Battalion.

Sal was one of many first responders in 9/11. His professional commitment to the FDNY and to the City of New York placed his life and well-being at extremely elevated risks in many rescue calls and even more so each day that he spent directly exposed to the deadly dust of Ground Zero. His experiences as a 9/11 rescue member help us identify the magnitude of issues that all workers underwent inside the highly toxic disaster zone, illustrating how so many have contracted the most traumatic illnesses and cancers.

Mr. Banchitta, now retired from “the job”, continues to support the entire community of first responders as a health and wellness advocate and a public speaker about maintaining continued health checkups and a proactive approach to health, safety and wellness.  He is a field ambassador of the “GET CHECKED NOW” program developed by the clinical leaders of AwarenessforaCure.org and is also one of the supporting editors of the 9/11 Survivor Stories Newsletter.

THE NEW MISSION & A LIFE-LONG CALL
As with most community-driven crusaders, Sal recalls the day that he says convinced him of this calling. "I was at a gas station one day in Woodside and I fell into conversation with someone on the other side of the pump," said Sal. "It happens all too often between any two strangers wearing FD New York jackets or shirts.  Without even exchanging names, we got into it about my retirement, where I operated, then - 9/11, both my tour and his.  He expressed immediate concerns about his own health in conjunction to a few firefighters that he knew personally that recently passed away. They were once in perfect health, and then all of a sudden they're gone... it was that quick. it was obvious that's what got him extremely worried.  Amazing timing from the heavens, I handed him my postcard about 911CancerScan.com and told him about cancer screening for anyone exposed to ground zero. There's things that you can do to be ahead of the curve and to be vigilant.  Since then, I'm finding these guys everywhere and hearing about more and more stories that you just can't ignore."

As an ardent reader and researcher of all 9/11 illnesses, Sal continually tracks the many ‘new’ cancer cases from news reports that continue to rise within the rescue community. More so, his dedicated readings also reinforce his expanding interest in learning about ALL cancer treatment modalities (from the conventional protocols to the many forms of integrative and alternative medicines) - arming himself with education and awareness against the many possible impending health effects of “the most dangerous job in the world.”

From Sal's official 2001 statement, he was quite detailed about the harsh environment of what he calls the burning dust where any safety equipment for any and all workers proved 'completely useless'. He added, "there was no way to avoid breathing in the extreme amount of particles all over the air. It constantly went in our eyes that stations were everywhere constantly flushing our eyes out. The job teaches you that burning materials and chemicals at extreme temperatures takes on a more lethal and more aggressive form to anyone exposed to it.  Basically, all we had was our immune system to fight what was inside us all!"

THE MOST PRECIOUS GIFT
"Life is the most precious gift of all... including the undying love and support from our families, our friends and the entire community at large --reminding us that ours was a job worth doing! Rescuers risk everything for the continuance of all this... for everyone and for ourselves!"  Sal Banchitta's contributions to the First Responders Cancer Resource shows his heart is still in the right place for the society of firefighters -both retired and active. He finds a major need for this advocacy "for the 'under-informed', those in denial or anyone negligent about the need for proactive health checkups".

Since day one, he (alongside his band of fellow  responders) took on every call -completely aware of the OCCUPATIONAL HAZARDS that came with this line of work. Meanwhile, the true battle that any retired rescuer faces from any job-related toxic exposure is the looming concern for the many possible unknowns, including time-released cancers, prostate/lung and liver disorders, heart diseases and strokes (just to name a few).

TECHNOLOGY CATCHES UP TO MORTALITY RATES
It is this level of awakening that drew him to commit to sharing this vital information with his fellow rescuers, both retired and on active duty. His passion to learn about job related cancers also covered learning about ALL innovations, advancements in lab and genetic testing, diagnostic technologies and facilities available to track, monitor, treat and prevent cancers. “In the fight against cancer, education is job #1… we need to be smart about this disease and to make better decisions about all the options available. (Also see: (article) An Upgrade in Post-9/11 First Responders Cancer Screening and (article)"Patient-Friendly" Advancement in Early Cancer Detection)

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AN EXCERPT FROM (RET) FIREMAN SAL BANCHITTA'S 9/11 TESTIMONY
“45 minutes after the towers came down, there was a city recall meaning all firefighters had to come in. Many of us met at Shea Stadium and raced to West End Avenue in buses. After Tower 7 came down, we operated all night long inside “the pile” and we were looking to see what we were able to do. We helped create a human chain that pulled out the trapped Port Authority police officer. Having spent the entire day and night manning the zone, it was the most exhausting shift that felt like forever! The next day, went back to the firehouse, showered, changed from the (bunker gear) contaminated clothes at the firehouse. And then the next night tour, we ended up being back at the pile all night long again. This went on for an entire month for me going down there in and out at completely different times- inside the thick of those fumes and billowing smoke on that pile with no masks or anything on.”

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Additional References:
1) Occupational Health Concerns of Firefighting:
https://www.annualreviews.org/doi/pdf/10.1146/annurev.pu.13.050192.001055

Disclaimer & Copyright Notice: The materials provided on this website/web-based article are copyrighted and the intellectual property of the publishers/producers (The NY Cancer Resource Alliance/IntermediaWorx inc. and Bard Diagnostic Research & Educational Programs). It is provided publicly strictly for informational purposes within non-commercial use and not for purposes of resale, distribution, public display or performance. Unless otherwise indicated on this web based page, sharing, re-posting, re-publishing of this work is strictly prohibited without due permission from the publishers.  Also, certain content may be licensed from third-parties. The licenses for some of this Content may contain additional terms. When such Content licenses contain additional terms, we will make these terms available to you on those pages (which his incorporated herein by reference).The publishers/producers of this site and its contents such as videos, graphics, text, and other materials published are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, please always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified health provider. Do not postpone or disregard any professional medical advice over something you may have seen or read on this website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 9-1-1 immediately.  This website does not support, endorse or recommend any specific products, tests, physicians, procedures, treatment opinions or other information that may be mentioned on this site. Referencing any content or information seen or published in this website or shared by other visitors of this website is solely at your own risk. The publishers/producers of this Internet web site reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to modify, disable access to, or discontinue, temporarily or permanently, all or any part of this Internet web site or any information contained thereon without liability or notice to you.

WHEN IS THE RIGHT TIME TO SPEAK TO A THERAPIST? (part 1)

Industry reports show emergency response professionals have the highest health risks including injuries to the body- and THE MIND [3].  In a study that examined the prevalence of resilience among New Yorkers during the 6 months after 9/11, 65% of participants showed resilience (ability to recover)... suggesting that more cases demonstrated resilience than previously believed. Even among those with the highest levels of exposure and highest probable PTSD, the proportion that were resilient never dropped below 33%. [1]

Mental Health is a concern in the first responder community especially since the 9/11 attacks where traumatic experiences could greatly affect our lives in complex and debilitating ways. Here are some troubling signs that may indicate a need for help.

• FLASHBACKS that bring you back to the traumatic event and away from present reality regularly
• INSOMNIA due to fear of vivid dreams of the event or fear of rumination about specifics of the traumatic event causing loss of sleep
• FEELING DEPRESSED, heavy, loss of hope and joy or consistent fatigue that leads to inability to get out of bed
• SELF MEDICATING with drugs or alcohol to numb flashback or reoccurring negative thoughts about the traumatic event
• ANGER and irritability that leads to interpersonal problems with family, friends and colleagues
• CONSISTENT ANXIETY, panic and worry in hope to gain control of ones environment and decrease threat of another similar traumatic event
• AVOIDANCE of any reminders of the traumatic event, leading to isolation 
• FEELINGS OF LONELINESS, emptiness or feelings like you cannot relate to anyone 
• CONSISTENT SHAME and guilt that causes impairment in functioning, depression and/or anxiety 
• SUPPRESSION, repression or burying emotional responses associated with the traumatic event, co-occurring with physical symptoms such as chronic pain, racing heart beat, tightness in chest and headache

We are fortunate to live in a time when ALL clinical resources, let it be physiological or mental support is just a click away. First responders are constantly exposed to many unforeseen challenges of (and from) the job- many of which can cause a lasting impression to the body or the mind. It may take one significant traumatic event or a sequence of events to trigger a cascade of lasting effects on our well-being. When we work to process physical emotions that arise from trauma, the hope is that one day we can be less affected by it and live more presently to enjoy life’s fulfilling moments. 

Remember, the first step to resolving any problem large or small is to step forward and say- "I need help!" 

- JESSICA GLYNN, LMSW, CPC, CEC 
First Responders Mental Health Div.

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POST-TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER (PTSD) IN FIRST RESPONDERS

A well balanced mental health is about self-care and recognizing what is in our control as far as things that we can change. It is also an acceptance of the things in our outside environment that are beyond our ability to manage. Where a traumatic or disturbing experience may (at one time or another) impact our lives, it is this control that maintains our perspective whether or not those experiences could haunt us with physical disruption and cause harm to our daily routine. Many associate Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) with military personnel who experienced the horrors of war - but cases of PTSD are also found in the community of rescuers and emergency responders. A popular example of this is from the many victims of 9/11 as well as other local disasters.

No one is exempt from PTSD and it can easily arise from the simplest triggers that kick up that specific traumatic event. For even the most experienced and 'battle-hardened' professionals, the disorder can happen years and even decades later. Many find it very hard to get over this on your own- and most people don't understand how stop those memories from creeping up.

ANYTHING CAN TRIGGER PTSD AT ANY TIME
Some consider it a lock-and-key connection where it took an unsuspectingly simple trigger to transcend a person back to that fateful disturbing memory and replaying it in an uncontrolled and repetitive manner. You think it's behind you- then one day, an associative spark brings it all back; let it be a car backfiring or street sirens, a plane going over the city or even seeing a child crying in the street. Any sort of auditory or visual prompt could unlock that "box of buried emotions" to a first responder seeing someone in distress and going back to that day. Suddenly, your reality of the situation completely changes back to that traumatic event. Many suffer in silence, whereas PTSD could be more easily managed or reversed if addressed earlier. Unattended, this disorder may grow in frequency and strength, leading many to 'self-medicate' with drinking or drugs to fight the flashbacks.

(To be continued in our Rescuers Support Resource Newsletter coming Feb. 28, 2018)

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References
1) Psychological resilience after disaster: New York City in the aftermath of the September 11th terrorist attack. Bonanno GA1, Galea S, Bucciarelli A, Vlahov D.
2) NYC-9/11 Health
3) Health effects arising from the September 11 attacks
4)"The Impact of Mental Health Stigma in the Fire Service"- by Christopher L. McKenna/FireEngineering.com   https://www.fireengineering.com/articles/print/volume-170/issue-12/features/the-impact-of-mental-health-stigma-in-the-fire-service.html


Disclaimer & Copyright Notice: The materials provided on this website/web-based article are copyrighted and the intellectual property of the publishers/producers (The NY Cancer Resource Alliance/IntermediaWorx inc. and Bard Diagnostic Research & Educational Programs). It is provided publicly strictly for informational purposes within non-commercial use and not for purposes of resale, distribution, public display or performance. Unless otherwise indicated on this web based page, sharing, re-posting, re-publishing of this work is strictly prohibited without due permission from the publishers.  Also, certain content may be licensed from third-parties. The licenses for some of this Content may contain additional terms. When such Content licenses contain additional terms, we will make these terms available to you on those pages (which his incorporated herein by reference).The publishers/producers of this site and its contents such as videos, graphics, text, and other materials published are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, please always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified health provider. Do not postpone or disregard any professional medical advice over something you may have seen or read on this website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 9-1-1 immediately.  This website does not support, endorse or recommend any specific products, tests, physicians, procedures, treatment opinions or other information that may be mentioned on this site. Referencing any content or information seen or published in this website or shared by other visitors of this website is solely at your own risk. The publishers/producers of this Internet web site reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to modify, disable access to, or discontinue, temporarily or permanently, all or any part of this Internet web site or any information contained thereon without liability or notice to you.

CAROL ALT and THE AGE OF PREVENTION

The new millennium has been identified as the era of change, inspiring a generation of global "selfism"; the philosophy behind wellness and longevity.  Where personal health was once defined by 'following the doctor's orders', today's act of self-awareness arms us academically to incorporate the many key elements of 'PREVENTION' into our lives.  Anyone seeking a clean and healthy lifestyle need not go far to align with a comprehensive nutritional program and a sustainable culture driven to stay fit & living longer. Information is all around us as far as organic foods, filtered water, a fitness regimen, stress reduction exercises and better sleep- to start.  All we need to do is embrace it.

In a private interview with celebrity super-model, raw food expert and multi-bestselling wellness author, CAROL ALT shares her insights on what defines a lifestyle of health awareness and forward thinking. As a recognized public voice for health advocacy, Ms. Alt lives and promotes the very best advice from her favorite doctors, fitness gurus, dietitians, and health experts into all her venues (including her television show 'A Healthy You').

Viewing a world of ongoing health disorders and cancer cases, she started by supporting the need for raising quality standards of living against the many variables in our lifestyle that cause illness (especially cancers). According to the National Institutes of Health [1], 2018 showed an estimated 1,735,350 new cases of cancer diagnosed in the United States and 609,640 people were expected to die from the disease. Cancer is a preventable disease that requires major lifestyle changes- lifestyle factors that include cigarette smoking, diet (fried foods, red meat), alcohol, over-exposure to the sun and environmental pollutants, infections, stress, obesity, and physical inactivity.  "Let's face it, having a healthy lifestyle is number one", starts Ms. Alt. "You have to start out with a good, healthy, strong base... but in this day and age, with all of this pollution and everything, if you don't get checked regularly, something that might be very minor in the beginning can become a real issue. People get frightened-- they don't want to go, and then their little issue becomes a really big one, and ...that to me is the sad part of all this. A lot more people could have been saved."

ENVIRONMENTAL TOXINS & THE EFFECTS ON FIRST RESPONDERS
Historically, recorded spikes of cancer cases in a given geographic area have been attributed to specific man-made disasters. Tracking back to the Nevada nuclear testing sites in the 50's, the Three-Mile Island Nuclear Accident of '79, Flint Michigan's water disaster to 9/11, government organizations like the CDC illustrates a direct (and continued) correlation between environmental toxins and the elevated levels of cancer cases in that area.

In addition, certain lifestyles and professions are known to have a much higher risk and exposure to cancer. On the home front, Carol Alt's personal anti-cancer crusade started with the loss of her father Anthony Alt, a fire chief from the 18th Battalion (South Bronx).  He passed away due to the NY Telephone Fire in Feb. 1975 where a large scale recovery and rescue effort exposed all 127 firefighters to the combustion of the highly toxic polyvinyl chloride (PVC).  This was identified as a major reason for elevated rates of cancer cases from the scene- most (if not all) rescuers died from this.   Adding to Ms. Alt's public voice for awareness was the lack of information given to victims like her father about the many hazards, risks and contaminants linked to cancer.  "My father died because he did not know what he was exposed to ...nobody reached out to him about what was happening, and if he had our kind of scanning back then, it would have been so much better for him because he was really totally in the dark."

Among her many advocacy efforts for firefighters, Ms. Alt continues to reach out to first responders while staying current on the dangers that they continue to face healthwise.  She is an avid supporter of the FIRST RESPONDERS CANCER RESOURCE (formerly 9/11 CancerScan) as well as their joint task force with the Male Breast Cancer Coalition. Through social media, her mission to save lives comes in the form of powerful posts such as "Don't Die Because You're Afraid to Die"- a wake up call to all male first responders about the rising tide of Male Breast Cancer.  It starts with "It’s surprising how many people die from treatable disease because they’re afraid to tell the doctor they think they’re sick or they find a lump and they’re afraid to get it tested. It’s happening every day. Especially at risk are men who are too macho get tested for breast cancer."  She not only targets the male-ego which she believes is one of the major setbacks from getting breast checkups, but she also provides a solution- her own diagnostician whom she feels is the ideal situation for private screening without the gender stigma.

"GET CHECKED NOW": 
TODAY'S LIFE-SAVING TECHNOLOGY 
For over 18 years, Ms. Alt has been a patient and devout student of diagnostic analysis of Dr. Robert Bard (NYC). His 45+ years of clinical service includes countless published medical works on the advancement of tumor analysis and many direct advisory contributions leading to the advancement of today's digital imaging innovations.  "He's very genuine and he loves to educate his patients... I've never seen somebody this passionate about what they're doing- and he wants us to understand and be smarter about what's happening with our bodies."

The 3D/4D Ultrasound has become Dr. Bard's benchmark 'weapon of choice' over all the existing scanning technology due to its accuracy and real-time (immediate) turnaround.  It is this technical performance that Miss Alt attributes to the success of a diagnostic system. "He's got a very personalized place, and because of that, he's able to give you an answer right away. You don't have to hang on for 10 days waiting for a report... In fact, I don't even do MRI's because I don't want the contrast exposure. I go to Dr. Bard and I do a (3D) sonogram instead because he can see blood flow- It's really a lot easier mentally!"

EPILOGUE
To be vigilant is the significant core attitude of today's survivor lifestyle. Where "selfism" means making smarter decisions in an ocean of mis-information as far as about what's right for you.   According to Dr. Jesse Stoff's publication "Staying in Remission", the battle to stay well is fought on many fronts- from the fight against 'ignorance' (about what can harm the body), the commercialized lures of toxic foods, a sedentary work life and identifying the many toxins in our surroundings. Where public messaging for clean, intelligent living from inspiring role models like Carol Alt could touch so many, "we all still need to do the actual heavy lifting which is turning great advice and research into reality by living the good fight!"

Copyright © 2019- Awareness for a Cure. All Rights Reserved.
Re-published in: Rejuvenate! Magazine (2019)
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References:

1) NIH: National Cancer Institute: https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/understanding/statistics
2) CDC Cancer Clusters: https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/clusters/factsheet.htm
3) 10 Worst Man-Made Environmental Disasters:
 https://www.pri.org/stories/2010-05-03/10-worst-man-made-environmental-disasters
4) Carol Alt Blog: https://www.carolalt.com/dont-die-because-youre-afraid-to-die/
5) Bard Cancer Diagnostics: https://bardcancercenter.com/
6) Staying In Remission- Dr. Jesse Stoff: http://stayinginremission.com/

Disclaimer & Copyright Notice: The materials provided on this website/web-based article are copyrighted and the intellectual property of the publishers/producers (The NY Cancer Resource Alliance/IntermediaWorx inc. and Bard Diagnostic Research & Educational Programs). It is provided publicly strictly for informational purposes within non-commercial use and not for purposes of resale, distribution, public display or performance. Unless otherwise indicated on this web based page, sharing, re-posting, re-publishing of this work is strictly prohibited without due permission from the publishers.  Also, certain content may be licensed from third-parties. The licenses for some of this Content may contain additional terms. When such Content licenses contain additional terms, we will make these terms available to you on those pages (which his incorporated herein by reference).The publishers/producers of this site and its contents such as videos, graphics, text, and other materials published are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, please always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified health provider. Do not postpone or disregard any professional medical advice over something you may have seen or read on this website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 9-1-1 immediately.  This website does not support, endorse or recommend any specific products, tests, physicians, procedures, treatment opinions or other information that may be mentioned on this site. Referencing any content or information seen or published in this website or shared by other visitors of this website is solely at your own risk. The publishers/producers of this Internet web site reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to modify, disable access to, or discontinue, temporarily or permanently, all or any part of this Internet web site or any information contained thereon without liability or notice to you.

MEDICAL CANNABIS TREND (part 2): CONSIDERING CBD/THC TREATMENT

By: Dr. Thomas G. O'Brien, II

(click image to enlarge)

When considering Medical Marijuana as a treatment option, one of the most difficult things to do is bypass the stigma associated with marijuana as an illegal substance. A popular concern is the fear of addiction and using a “psychedelic” drug.

Medical Marijuana:

• is derived from a natural source and
• acts on cannabinoid receptors that naturally exist in your cell membranes and which even naturally occur in breast milk!

CB1 (exists in the brain) and CB2 (found in your immune system and throughout the rest of your body) are your body’s cannabinoid receptors. So, it can be said that your body is “built for cannabinoids” which can play a healthy role in boosting your immune system; protecting your brain, nervous system and cells against disease; relieving pain and inflammation; and more.

As with any medication, personal responsibility is paramount. The same risks involved with the misuse of any medication apply, except that Medical Marijuana is carefully cultivated from a natural source. Medical Marijuana in New York State is strictly supervised and monitored in its production for the highest quality. It is your privilege to have the control of and the responsibility for the THC to CBD ratio that you determine is right for you. As always, responsible use of a controlled substance allows for us to keep our privileges and for many to benefit.

Your treatment will be a blend of the active ingredients of cannabis to yield the greatest benefits with the least amount of unwanted effects – preferably none. Because Medical Marijuana is derived from a natural, herbal source, like most herbs (and other medications), its properties can affect everyone differently. Some people may benefit from a higher THC concentration and others from a higher CBD ratio (see Understanding Dosage).

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CLINICAL DOSAGES & RATIOS

After a thorough examination, should the patient choose to pursue a treatment plan including cannabis products, Dr. O’Brien may issue a certificate (similar to a prescription) for the patient to take to one of the certified dispensaries in the NY area to pick up the proper ratio of THC - CBD cannabis oil.  The ratio between CBD and THC varies on the patient’s specific needs. He explains that unlike the consumer level CBD drops sold in stores (anywhere from 150-350mg = 2-3 milligrams per ML), full spectrum CBD recommended by him typically measures at around 5000 Milligrams (50mg/ML) and is more concentrated for best results. And with the inclusion of the clinically regulated therapeutic support of THC in legal proportions, “you’ve got the makings of a clinical-grade solution for patient disorders.”

Dr. Obrien’s success with medical cannabis is widening based on the realities of its legal limits.   In a closing statement, this industry is clearly in its infancy stage where physicians like Dr. Obrien would like to see some sort of standardization for CBD as far as quality and efficacy. “Quality assurance and a governing agency to oversee this industry should be established so that consumer know what their buying.”   

ACCESS, DISPENSARIES & PRESCRIPTIONS

Dr. O'brien’s website indicates that to visit a New York State Certified Dispensary, you will be required to provide your (1) Medical Marijuana Qualifying Certificate from a New York State Medical Marijuana Certifying Physician; (2) Medical Marijuana ID issued by the State of New York; and (3) valid New York State ID. Some dispensaries may have additional requirements which should be listed on their websites. To find a New York State Certified Dispensary, click here.

Issuing a certificate is similar to a pharmaceutical prescription for the drug store – but with the distinct difference that dispensaries distribute only one non-FDA approved product.   A clinical dispensary carries a special license from the State of New York to grow, process, transport, and dispense medical marijuana. Only registered physicians are allowed to work with these dispensaries and must abide by the regulated THC/CBD extract percentages determined by each state. NY dispensaries include Vireo, Columbia Care, Curaleaf, Etain, Med Men and PharmaCannis.  

END OF PART 2

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About Dr. O'Brien

Thomas G. O'Brien II, MS, DO, PC is a Board Certified Osteopathic Physician in Family and Integrative Medicine and was residency trained in St. Barnabas Hospital (Bronx, NY). He is one of the first physicians in NY State to be licensed to certify patients in Medical marijuana as well as the first in New York City to offer compassionate care. Jan 2019, he will begin his fourth year offering this service to our community.  He promotes the treatment of Cancer, Chronic Pain, Neuropathic Pain, Spinal Chord Injury, Epilepsy, Huntingtons Chorea, Parkinson's, Multiple Sclerosis, ALS, Crohn's Dz, Ulcerativa Colitis (IBD), HIV / AIDS and Opioid Addiction.  He runs a non profit organization called Health Education Learning Program, Inc. (HELP) with his wife. Together, they help enrich the community with health education. www.HELP-10.com. He is also the host & producer and a four time Beta Award winning Health Education show sponsored by HELP. www.youtube.com/drtommyO.  He has recently published a text called "Medical Cannabis".  For complete information on Dr. (O'Brien, please visit: http://doctommy.com 


Disclaimer & Copyright Notice: The materials provided on this website/web-based article are copyrighted and the intellectual property of the publishers/producers (The NY Cancer Resource Alliance/IntermediaWorx inc. and Bard Diagnostic Research & Educational Programs). It is provided publicly strictly for informational purposes within non-commercial use and not for purposes of resale, distribution, public display or performance. Unless otherwise indicated on this web based page, sharing, re-posting, re-publishing of this work is strictly prohibited without due permission from the publishers.  Also, certain content may be licensed from third-parties. The licenses for some of this Content may contain additional terms. When such Content licenses contain additional terms, we will make these terms available to you on those pages (which his incorporated herein by reference).The publishers/producers of this site and its contents such as videos, graphics, text, and other materials published are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, please always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified health provider. Do not postpone or disregard any professional medical advice over something you may have seen or read on this website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 9-1-1 immediately.  This website does not support, endorse or recommend any specific products, tests, physicians, procedures, treatment opinions or other information that may be mentioned on this site. Referencing any content or information seen or published in this website or shared by other visitors of this website is solely at your own risk. The publishers/producers of this Internet web site reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to modify, disable access to, or discontinue, temporarily or permanently, all or any part of this Internet web site or any information contained thereon without liability or notice to you.

MEDICAL CANNABIS TREND (part 1): WHERE ARE WE NOW?

Evidence shows that for over 5000 years, Cannabis has been used as an anesthetic for chronic pain as well as a means of managing a wide list of disorders like rheumatism, malaria, tumors, jaundice and dysentery.  Today, extracts from medical marijuana (cannabinoids) are gaining significant attention as an herbal health treatment or supplement and is also growing in clinical use for managing a wide variety of disorders including cancers and musculoskeletal issues.

In July 2014, Governor Andrew M. Cuomo and the New York State Legislature enacted the Compassionate Care Act to provide a comprehensive, safe and effective medical marijuana program that meets the needs of New Yorkers.  According to the NYS Dept. of Health, medical marijuana is available in New York for patients with the following severe debilitating or life threatening conditions: cancer, HIV infection or AIDS, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, damage to the nervous tissue of the spinal cord with objective neurological indication of intractable spasticity, epilepsy, inflammatory bowel disease, neuropathies, Huntington's disease, chronic pain, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and as a replacement to prescription opioids. (see complete details in ref #1)

Since inception of this law, continued upgrades have been implemented to expand the medical rights of use of registered physicians. According to the office of the NYS Commissioner of Health, patients with "any severe debilitating pain that a practitioner determines degrading health and functional capability… (and) has experienced intolerable side effects, or has experienced failure of one or more previously tried therapeutic options; may qualify for medical marijuana.”  As of early 2019, over 1300 professional practitioners have been certified by the NYSDOH to prescribe medical marijuana and its products.



TODAY’S MEDICAL CANNABIS PRACTITIONER
After the Compassionate Care Act came into effect, Dr. Thomas O’Brien (http://doctommy.com ) upgraded his family practice in NYC to include the use of medical marijuana (THC & CBD solutions) for his patients by being one of the first certified physicians in the State of New York allowed to prescribe regulated dosages of THC and CBD as needed. His use of this treatment solution includes patients with a wide range of disorders from chronic pain to cancer and tumors.

For over 25 years, Dr. O’Brien has been recognized as an integrative practitioner with an holistic approach in his family medicine.  He defined his way of examining patients by covering “all the bases” from the physical/biochemical, the emotional/psychological to the spiritual.  His approach to patient exams through all these diagnostic paradigms is what he simply calls “truly listening to the entire patient.”   Credentialed as a clinical nutritionist, getting certified to treat patients with cannabis products has become a logical next-step evolution and a positive addition to Dr. O’Brien’s tool box.  His research with medical cannabis showed extensive clinical success and was also impressed by its nature-based solution to help a widening list of disorders without harmful side effects.

Patients who suffer with chronic pain, neuropathy, or neuropathic pain are given the option by Dr. O’Brien to use one of three ratio mixtures as allowed by State regulations. He detailed one example with patients suffering from diabetic neuropathy carrying signs of tingling, burning sensations, pins and needles sensations, in their feet, which is very common.  “This is called microvascular pathology- that's where the very small arteries just don't work well… they're not providing good nutrition and oxygen to the nerves. And the nerves start to fail in function and you start to get these side effects like burning sensation, tingling sensation, the pins and needles, or even lack of sensation.” 

Dr. O’Brien identifies a significant benefit of this CBD/THC clinical mixture as one that is ‘customizable’ based on the severity of the patient’s case. The ratio between the two compounds defines a conservative or aggressive treatment protocol whereby an aggressive strategy starts them on a one-to-one ratio, where the THC and CBD are equal.

After a four week follow-up, Dr. O’Brien states that his patients were coming back expressing how much better they feel in comparison to taking narcotics.  “Narcotics use may change your brain chemistry without you realizing it… it changes who you are and how you react, as well as how you respond to stimuli- including the effects on your family members.”

END OF PART 1

........................................................................................................................................................

About Dr. O'Brien
Thomas G. O'Brien II, MS, DO, PC is a Board Certified Osteopathic Physician in Family and Integrative Medicine and was residency trained in St. Barnabas Hospital (Bronx, NY). He is one of the first physicians in NY State to be licensed to certify patients in Medical marijuana as well as the first in New York City to offer compassionate care. Jan 2019, he will begin his fourth year offering this service to our community.  He promotes the treatment of Cancer, Chronic Pain, Neuropathic Pain, Spinal Chord Injury, Epilepsy, Huntingtons Chorea, Parkinson's, Multiple Sclerosis, ALS, Crohn's Dz, Ulcerativa Colitis (IBD), HIV / AIDS and Opioid Addiction.  He runs a non profit organization called Health Education Learning Program, Inc. (HELP) with his wife. Together, they help enrich the community with health education. www.HELP-10.com. He is also the host & producer and a four time Beta Award winning Health Education show sponsored by HELP. www.youtube.com/drtommyO.  He has recently published a text called "Medical Cannabis".  For complete information on Dr. (O'Brien, please visit: http://doctommy.com 

Disclaimer & Copyright Notice: The materials provided on this website/web-based article are copyrighted and the intellectual property of the publishers/producers (The NY Cancer Resource Alliance/IntermediaWorx inc. and Bard Diagnostic Research & Educational Programs). It is provided publicly strictly for informational purposes within non-commercial use and not for purposes of resale, distribution, public display or performance. Unless otherwise indicated on this web based page, sharing, re-posting, re-publishing of this work is strictly prohibited without due permission from the publishers.  Also, certain content may be licensed from third-parties. The licenses for some of this Content may contain additional terms. When such Content licenses contain additional terms, we will make these terms available to you on those pages (which his incorporated herein by reference).The publishers/producers of this site and its contents such as videos, graphics, text, and other materials published are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, please always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified health provider. Do not postpone or disregard any professional medical advice over something you may have seen or read on this website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 9-1-1 immediately.  This website does not support, endorse or recommend any specific products, tests, physicians, procedures, treatment opinions or other information that may be mentioned on this site. Referencing any content or information seen or published in this website or shared by other visitors of this website is solely at your own risk. The publishers/producers of this Internet web site reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to modify, disable access to, or discontinue, temporarily or permanently, all or any part of this Internet web site or any information contained thereon without liability or notice to you.

Awareness for a Cure Shares Airtime with Male Breast Cancer Coaltion @WBAB

Dr. Stoff Receives MBCC Advisory Board Recognition on Air

WBAB/WBLI (Cox Media Group) "Plugged Into Long Island" with Ted Lindner has been supporting all local non-profit groups since 2015, conducting exclusive live interviews with community leaders, fundraisers and cancer foundations. The popular island rock-station airs some of the most current shows that spotlight our many helpful crusaders and their projects including 'Bikers Against Child Abuse', St. Vincent de Paul', Memorial Sloan Kettering,  Hewlett House and the Suffolk County Marathon to name but a few.

November 19, 2018, WBAB/WBLI invited a NY community health crusader, Dr. Jesse Stoff - clinical cancer immunologist and co-founder of an advocacy organization called Awareness for a Cure (AFAC).  This year, Dr. Stoff introduces Marc Futterweit, regional ambassador of the Male Breast Cancer Coalition (MBCC) and two-time breast cancer survivor.  Together, they shared the mic and publicized vital information about this special type of cancer that seems to continue to grow in numbers worldwide.

As many interviews as he has conducted on-air about health concerns and cancer rates, host Ted Lindner was himself surprised at the growing stats in this 'silent' epidemic. "It's amazing... male breast cancer doesn't get the play that female breast cancer does."  He started the show by exploring the genesis of AFAC and Dr. Stoff's vision to join and promote ALL cancer orgs.

"More than a clinician, there's always been a major side of me that's been about education and awareness," starts Dr. Stoff. "To truly fight cancer, we have to attack this from all fronts- including sharing and providing the most current information, statistics, treatment strategies and who's who in the battlefield".  His 20+ years of experience as a medical professional in treating cancer patients helped empower his extensive list of publications, articles and educational videos that are publicly available to the cancer community and fundraising organizations.

MORTALITY REPORT OF A VERY REAL HEALTH RISK
As the show airs shortly after breast cancer awareness month, the MBCC continues the pursuit of a ground-level assault on male breast cancer through awareness to get all men tested.  Futterweit provides current numbers as part of his a public health alert .  "In the United States, the estimates are that one in 844 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime according to the American Cancer Society... and approximately 2,550 new cases are expected to come out this year.  The estimated cases per year in the UK is 390. In Australia, it's 148. The mortality rate for men is higher than that of women due to the lack of awareness and/or, ironically, a misdiagnosis.  There's been recorded 480 deaths so far, which is almost 20%, which is ridiculous because of the fact that men are not aware of what's going on."

Click Video link

Marc Futterweit is the regional ambassador of the Northeast branch of the MBCC and a long-time inspirational champion for the growing list of male cancer cases. He introduced himself as a two-time survivor of male breast cancer and shared his entire diagnostic and treatment process. Futterweit's spirit to charge through New York's first snowstorm of the year to make the early morning studio interview in West Babylon all the way from Dover NJ is all part of Marc's due diligence for his personal mission. "I never shy away from any opportunity to get the word out about male breast cancer -- this is the type of cancer that desperately needs a real voice in public awareness because so many men out there have no clue how REAL this disease really is!"

A joint task force built between the medical board members of AFAC and the directors of MBCC around the 9/11 Remembrance Day when news reports released about 15 male firefighters that came down with breast cancer as result of the WTC exposure. "We connected with MBCC co-founder Cheri Ambrose originally because Awareness for a Cure has a sister program for 9/11-related cancer cases called 911cancerscan.com... and when the breast cancer report came out, we gladly did more to help Marc's mission because we had a common goal of getting information out about the impending health risks," says Dr. Stoff.

On October 19, 2018, the first male-dedicated breast cancer diagnostic program was established in NYC with the aid of Dr. Stoff, AFAC directors and clinical partner Dr. Robert Bard of (NYCRA) NY Cancer Resource Alliance. See complete article on the Male Breast Cancer Joint Task Force.  Also see the NYC diagnostics program: mbcscan.com

ADDITIONAL INFO:
Plugged Into Long Island featured these two organizations as part of WBAB/WBLI's public contribution to charitable organizations providing good will and public advocacy.  This feature interview continues its public access on their websites: http://www.WBLI.com/pluggedin and http://www.WBAB.com/pluggedin.

The Male Breast Cancer Coalition is a global non-profit foundation whose mission is to unite men with breast cancer together from around the world to spread awareness and educate everyone about breast cancer in men. For more info, visit: www.MBCCGlobal.com. Awareness for a Cure is a joint alliance group between various non-profit cancer-related orgs such as BestAnswerForCancer.org, Stoff Institute for Medical Research (SIMR) and the digital association (NYCRA) NY Cancer Resource Alliance.



Disclaimer & Copyright Notice: The materials provided on this website/web-based article are copyrighted and the intellectual property of the publishers/producers (The NY Cancer Resource Alliance/IntermediaWorx inc. and Bard Diagnostic Research & Educational Programs). It is provided publicly strictly for informational purposes within non-commercial use and not for purposes of resale, distribution, public display or performance. Unless otherwise indicated on this web based page, sharing, re-posting, re-publishing of this work is strictly prohibited without due permission from the publishers.  Also, certain content may be licensed from third-parties. The licenses for some of this Content may contain additional terms. When such Content licenses contain additional terms, we will make these terms available to you on those pages (which his incorporated herein by reference).The publishers/producers of this site and its contents such as videos, graphics, text, and other materials published are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, please always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified health provider. Do not postpone or disregard any professional medical advice over something you may have seen or read on this website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 9-1-1 immediately.  This website does not support, endorse or recommend any specific products, tests, physicians, procedures, treatment opinions or other information that may be mentioned on this site. Referencing any content or information seen or published in this website or shared by other visitors of this website is solely at your own risk. The publishers/producers of this Internet web site reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to modify, disable access to, or discontinue, temporarily or permanently, all or any part of this Internet web site or any information contained thereon without liability or notice to you.