For many family members and friends, care packages seem simple. A box of homemade cookies and a sweet card should suffice. However, while sweets from home will be eaten, there are other items that your serviceman or woman might appreciate a little more.

Send This, Not That

If you're thinking about sending cookies or other sweets such as candy, send non-perishable, nutritional snacks instead. Believe it not, our service men and women are actually all set in the cookies department. Many companies, including the Girl Scouts and Otis Spunkmeyer, have ensured that the soldiers are never short on cookies in even the most remote locations. Candy is also vastly oversupplied. Instead, consider sending protein bars, such as Clif bars, beef jerky, dried fruit, and trail mix. These snacks have substance, taste more like real food to soldiers and also provide nutritional benefits.

If you're thinking about sending cheap, disposable hygiene products, send quality ones instead. Consider: often times these men and women are grooming themselves in less than comfortable conditions. Instead of sending throwaway products, think about sending quality ones that might make the experience a little easier. Some ideas are razors with replaceable blade heads (think Gillette Mach 3/Venus), nice shoe inserts for sore feet, odor-eliminating shoe powder, and Febreeze to help with uniform freshness. Toilet paper is supplied by the military, so save your money and package space.

If you're thinking about sending DVDs of movies or television shows, send an iPod pre-loaded with a music library and audio books. It's often possible that, due to a lack of intellectual property enforcement in many parts of the world, your soldier will be able to purchase any movies he or she wants almost anywhere in the world at a cheaper rate than you can find in the United States. A pre-loaded iPod with favorite music and a few books from the bestsellers list in his or her favorite genre will serve more useful and, therefore, more appreciated in the long run.

If you're thinking about sending a Bible, rosary, or other religious text, send a handwritten letter with thoughtful words and advice instead. Almost every unit of the service has a chaplain who is able to provide stacks of Bibles and religious literature for your soldier at any time. Rosaries are often available in bulk, too. A personal handwritten letter with new advice and old wisdom will serve as a meaningful keepsake with much more sentimental value. You know your soldier best and your words and well-wishes will mean the most.

Unique Care Package Ideas

Your package will be a piece of home regardless of what it holds, but here are some more clever ideas to really make the recipient feel at home:

• Favorite shampoo and conditioner brands
• Favorite non-perishable food toppings, such as hot sauce, seasonings they usually put on their meals, peanut butter or Nutella
• Pictures pre-wrapped in Ziploc bags to keep them safe and clean
• Blanket or pillow case from home
• Dryer sheets that he or she can fold into clothes to keep them fresh and smelling like home

By spending the time to put together a few thoughtful items, your solider will feel appreciated for their service not just on Armed Forces Day, but everyday.

The Face Of Climate Change is the theme for Earth Day 2013. Countries around the world are mobilizing their citizens to take part in various activities to raise awareness of the growing threat of climate change. From a green car show in Santa Barbara to an Earth Day Flash Mob in Korea, people of the world are taking part in this historic day to celebrate and raise awareness.

Earth Day is not only about celebrating, but also raising awareness of threats to earth; natural or human influenced. The Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance would like to participate this year by bringing about awareness of one of the most deadly naturally occurring minerals on earth-- asbestos. Mesothelioma victims and their loved ones know too well the devastation that this deadly mineral can cause, but there are too many people who are still unaware of the harmful effects that asbestos exposure can have.

Below are some asbestos facts-- please participate this Earth Day by sharing this piece and help us create awareness of asbestos and mesothelioma cancer.

• Asbestos, a naturally occurring fibrous mineral and known carcinogen, was mined beginning in the late 1800’s for many commercials uses in the shipbuilding, automotive and construction industries for a few examples.
• Asbestos fibers are 700 times smaller than a piece of human hair. When disturbed, these microscopic fibers can be inhaled and cling to the lining of your lungs.
• Asbestos is a known cause of asbestosis, asbestos lung cancer, and mesothelioma cancer.
• In the United States, some 30 million pounds of asbestos are still used each year.
• Asbestos is the number one cause of occupational cancer in the United States.
• The World Health Organization has declared asbestos as one of the most dangerous occupational carcinogens in the world.
• Russia is the largest exporter of asbestos, followed by Canada as the second-largest exporter.
• The United States, Europe, Japan and South Korea have all limited asbestos use in their respective countries, but asbestos is still exported to many developing countries and poses a risk to millions of people.

Head over to our Facebook and join our community to help spread awareness for asbestos exposure and mesothelioma this Earth Day.

This time of year, spring breakers are traveling to relax from school and work with friends and family. Travel in itself can be stressful, but if you add dealing with cancer into the mix, the idea may be too overwhelming and seem unmanageable. Traveling while you or a loved one has cancer can still be fun and relaxing with the right amount of preparation. When facing a rare form of cancer like mesothelioma, travel for mesothelioma treatment is common, but travel for fun doesn't have to be out of the question. Speaking to your doctor first is always recommended because each cancer patient has different limitations and needs. Once travel has been discussed and approved by the patient’s medical team, follow these other tips to make your travel as smooth and as fun as possible.

As a last item to add, be sure to schedule an appointment with your usual doctor for a post-travel check-up to discuss any health difficulties you had while away. If you had a great time relaxing without any unusual symptoms, feel free to cancel the appointment, but you'll feel better knowing that it's already scheduled for when you get home.

Danea Horn is a resilient fighter of her disorder known as VACTERL Association, a speaker, and author of her upcoming book "Chronic Resilience: 10 Sanity-Saving Strategies for Women Coping with the Stress of Illness." Through her sickness, Danea has learned that her illness can be her greatest teacher. She shares her experiences and advice through her site, Chronic Resilience.

As Asbestos Awareness Week 2013 progresses, it’s important to take a look back in time at the valuable information we’ve posted on our blog. Some of our most popular blog posts have been those related to asbestos awareness and education. Asbestos Awareness week is an important time for the mesothelioma community. Since so many people are unaware of the dangers of asbestos, this week in particular is an ideal time to educate others on these hazards.

In the spirit of awareness and education; here is a list of 5 must-read (& must-share) articles about asbestos:

1. "Experts Forcast Global "Catastrophe of Death and Disease" From Asbestos Use" - Our MCA Investigative Journalist Gary Cohn covers the global impact asbestos will have on global health as many countries continue to use asbestos products without caution.

2. Danger in the Dust: The Truth About Spring Cleaning - This article uncoveres the hidden dangers of asbestos when performing DIY renovations in your home.

3. 5 Places Asbestos is Hiding in Your Home - An article about the unexpected places and products where asbestos can be hiding in your home.

4. The Mesothelioma Combat Guide for Veterans - For many veterans, asbestos exposure was unavoidable. To help prepare a veteran to go into battle against asbestos-related diseases, this article shares a comprehensive list of resources for veterans that can be found on our site.

5. The History of Asbestos: Then & Now - Asbestos has a longer history than many may realize. For Asbestos Awareness Week, this article contains a list of compelling asbestos facts to help spread education about this deadly fiber.

More information about asbestos can be found here:

• Asbestos Cancer
• Asbestos Exposure

Join our community to join in the conversation and for updates about asbestos and mesothelioma information.

Every year, the first week of April is known as Asbestos Awareness Week. Asbestos, a naturally occurring fibrous material, is a known human carcinogen and has been linked as a cause to asbestos-related cancers and mesothelioma. Despite such serious results from exposure to this mineral, asbestos is still not banned completely in the United States and many other countries. The purpose of Asbestos Awareness Week is to raise awareness and promote education about the dangers of asbestos, the legislation surrounding asbestos and asbestos exposure victims, and education about asbestos-related disease.

Asbestos’ use was very widespread for many years and across many industries because of it’s desirable properties-- asbestos is known to be very durable and fire-resistant. Asbestos in it’s undisturbed form is not dangerous. It is when asbestos is disturbed and its microscopic fibers are inhaled that it can lead to health problems.

To help spread awareness about asbestos and hope for victims of asbestos-related diseases, the MCA has compiled a list of compelling facts about the long history of asbestos:

Asbestos History

• The word asbestos comes from the Greek meaning "inextinguishable".
• In the west, asbestos was first mentioned in Greek sources- and was first written about around 300 B.C.
• The Egyptians embalmed pharos with asbestos, and the Persians imported asbestos from India for wrapping their dead.
• During the Holy Roman Empire, asbestos was already being used in building materials, women’s clothes, and textiles.

Industries with Asbestos Use

• Commercial asbestos mines started in the late 1800's and entrepreneurs saw asbestos as an opportunity to make them rich.
• The Industrial Revolution represented a huge boom for the asbestos industry- factories were opening and finding new uses for asbestos on a daily basis.
• The railroad industry was the first to make use of asbestos-- it was used as insulation in railcars, pipes, boilers, and fireboxes in the era's steam locomotives.
• The shipyard industry followed along and made extensive use of asbestos as well. Those who worked in the shipyard industry have been the most affected by asbestos-related diseases.
• The building industry is where asbestos can be found almost anywhere in homes and commercial buildings-– wall insulation, flooring and ceiling tiles, exterior siding, roofing tar and shingles are just a few examples.

Awareness & Legislation

• The first diagnosis of asbestosis was made in 1924.
• The use of asbestos was at its highest in the 1940s – 1970s – estimated 3,000 products made use of its unique properties.
• EPA warnings and regulations began in the 1970's.
• On July 12, 1989, EPA issued a final rule banning most asbestos-containing products.
• EPA asbestos regulations fall under the authority of 2 different federal laws:
  • The Clean Air Act
  • The Toxic Substances Control Act

Americans are still being exposed to asbestos today, as the United States is still legally importing 100 millions tons of asbestos yearly. Awareness is still the key factor in the fight against asbestos use. Conferences such as the Asbestos Awareness Disease Organizations’ Annual International Asbestos Awareness Conference have helped to make strides in asbestos awareness, but people are still vastly undereducated about asbestos use and it's dangers. Join our community to join the fight against asbestos use and mesothelioma.

Held every year on March 30th, National Doctors’ Day celebrates physicians in the United States and their contributions to healthcare. For a patient, a good patient-doctor relationship is critical for a multitude of reasons. Patients with cancer frequently have a tremendous amount of anxiety and fear related to their disease, their treatment, and ultimately their life expectancy. Therefore, having a comfortable relationship with your physician is essential to the quality of your treatment. For those diagnosed with mesothelioma, visiting a mesothelioma specialist is paramount to obtaining the best medical treatment. We have many useful resources to assist patients in finding a top mesothelioma doctor near them.

To find out more about what makes a good doctor patient relationship and the reasons why finding the right doctor is so important, the Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance spoke with Melissa Veselovsky, CEO of Healthcare Advocacy & Business Solutions and former Director of Patient Advocacy at Ironwood Cancer & Research Centers. We asked Melissa a few questions about the importance of a good doctor/patient relationship.

1. Why is it so important for a cancer patient to have a good relationship with their doctor?

It is critical for a cancer patient to have a good relationship with their doctor. Studies have shown that a good patient/doctor relationship can increase the likelihood that a patient will follow treatment recommendations, take medications, come to appointments, and make lifestyle changes necessary to improve outcomes. Cancer is a life changing diagnosis and its treatment and effects are often experienced for weeks, months, and even years. The patient should be a part of the decision making process and should feel comfortable bringing up sensitive issues, asking questions, and understanding the diagnosis, treatment, side effects, and long term impact. Cancer can affect a patient's emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being.

2. In what ways does a good doctor/patient relationship help with the patient's overall quality of care?

A good patient/doctor relationship can help improve the quality of care by increasing the accountability of the provider and giving the physician a better understanding of the "big picture" and how to help the patient improve: mind, body and spirit. Cancer care is not just about surgery, drugs, and radiation; it is also about helping patients manage uncertainty, cope with the physical, emotional, psychosocial, financial and spiritual aspects of a life-threatening diagnosis. Patients that have these needs addressed do much better when faced with cancer. When the doctor/patient relationship is strong the patient is more likely to share these stressors as well as an cultural issues that may be barriers to their care. The patient may then be more likely to comply with treatment and recommendations long term. Some patients even develop a type of athlete/coach relationship with each other during treatment.

3. Are there things to watch out for or signs that a patient should consider switching doctors?

There may be several reasons for switching doctors but a patient should always understand that sometimes personalities just don't mesh. This is a perfectly acceptable reason to change doctors. Trust and good communication is essential during a life-changing illness such as cancer. Some signs that a patient should consider switching doctors:

• When a physician consistently does not take the time to listen to the patient.
• When personalities do not mesh and you just don't get along.
• When the patient does not feel like a good partner in care despite trying to resolve these issues with the physician.
• When the patient feels that his/her care is not what it should be and has not been able to resolve this with the physician.
• When the doctor is disrespectful to the patient or family members or goes against the wishes of the patient.

With March Madness in the air, so many people are focusing on their brackets. We're looking at the places teams will be playing as well, but for different reasons. Want to know how March Madness and the places these teams are playing relate to the world of mesothelioma and asbestos? Here are some examples:

Midwest Region - Indianapolis:

The road to the final four for teams like Louisville, Duke, Michigan State and St. Louis will go through Indianapolis and Lucas Oil Stadium. Lucas Oil Stadium is the current home to the NFL's Indianapolis Colts and rookie sensation Andrew Luck. Before its construction back in 2008, the RCA Dome held the main sports attraction in the area. But its demolition saw major setbacks due to the discovery of asbestos in the building. In order to prevent this harmful chemical from going airborne and the possible exposure of hundreds of thousands of people, careful measures had to be taken to ensure safety.

More information on asbestos in Indiana.

East Region - Washington D.C.:

The members of this quarter of the bracket, like Indiana, Miami (FL), Marquette and Syracuse, will be traveling through Washington D.C. in order to earn a trip to Atlanta. The games will be hosted by Georgetown University at the Verizon Center. Our country's capital is where many of the major decisions of our government in regard to asbestos are made. Over the years, many mesothelioma advocates have been known to visit Capitol Hill in order to have their voices heard and ask for funding for mesothelioma research.

More information on asbestos in Washington D.C.

West Region - Los Angeles:

In terms of distance, Gonzaga, New Mexico, Ohio State and Kansas State will without a doubt have the longest journey to an NCAA Title. In LA they will be playing at the Staples Center, which is home to teams like the NBA's Lakers and Clippers, WNBA's Sparks, and the NHL's Kings. But before the Staples Center was opened back in 1999 the LA Forum was home to the Southern California basketball scene. This is where fans would go to watch former NCAA Champion Magic Johnson lead the Lakers "Showtime" offense. The Forum is still standing in LA but a recent attempt by the owners of Madison Square Garden to purchase the old arena was put on hold due to the presence of asbestos.

More information on asbestos in California.

South Region - North Texas:

This final region, with teams like Kansas, Georgetown, Florida and Michigan, will play in "The House that Jerry Built", the home of the Jerry Jones owned Dallas Cowboys and the largest domed stadium in the world. But before this impressively innovative structure was built, the asbestos containing Texas Stadium was the home to Northern Texas sports. The implosion was delayed by presence of asbestos in various products used in the facilities such as glue to hold down the carpeting, mirrors, tiles, and drywall. Abatement crews worked tirelessly to make the site safe for workers.

More information on asbestos in Texas.

While 68 Division I college basketball teams look to win an NCAA Title, the nation seems to be taking positive steps in the fight to win its battle with asbestos exposure.

With spring creeping up on us, spring cleaning and DIY projects may be filling up your to-do list. However, these tasks may require more steps and tools than you bargained for if you live in an older home. Asbestos, a known carcinogen to cause mesothelioma cancer, is found in 80% of structures built prior to 1980’s. If you are beginning a home renovation project, educating yourself on where you could possibly find asbestos in your home is the first and most important step to take.

In the late 1970’s, the United States began to strictly regulate asbestos use; however, there are many ways asbestos could have found its way into a home. Asbestos was widely used as an insulation material. Because of its microscopic size, durability and flexibility, it was mixed in with many construction materials. Below are some of the most common places where asbestos can be found in your home today.

Floor Tiles

Vinyl and linoleum flooring became very popular during the early twentieth century because it could be purchased in a variety of sizes, thicknesses, and was easy to install and clean. Asbestos was often times used in the glue used to apply the flooring as well.

Heating & Piping

Many heat and hot water pipes were coated or wrapped in asbestos materials and asbestos paper.

Wall & Ceiling Insulation

Used in wall insulation and acoustic ceiling panels, these materials were known to contain asbestos fibers. Not only did the asbestos provide the desired flame retardant property, but it also provided great internal acoustics and soundproofing.

Interior Surfaces

Textured surfaces, like paints and popcorn ceilings, are the most commonly known surfaces to have traces of asbestos. Many joint and patching compounds used inside and outside of a home for patching, filling and gluing surfaces contained fibers to strengthen the material.

Exterior Surfaces

In older homes, siding, roof shingles, and tar paper contained asbestos fibers.

How do I know if my home contains asbestos?

The only way to know for sure if your home contains asbestos is to hire an independent asbestos consultant first. A consultant will perform the tests required to know if abatement should take place. An asbestos consultant can also provide you with advice for an abatement team to consider.

My home contains asbestos, now what?

If you have found asbestos materials in your home, you do not have to fear that you will become sick. Undisturbed asbestos will not cause health damage. It is when asbestos is disturbed that the tiny fibers can be inhaled and cause asbestos-related diseases. A homeowner should never try to remove asbestos; a licensed asbestos abatement professional should be hired to be sure that asbestos is removed and disposed of properly. An asbestos consultant can also be brought in after asbestos abatement has taken place to test that the abatement was done properly.

Finding asbestos in your home can be a frightening discovery, but doesn't have to stop your spring cleaning or renovation plans. By educating yourself on your home and with the help of professional, you can protect your family and your home from future health hazards.

Celebrated since the early 1900’s, March 8th marks the International Women’s Day. This day has been recognized as a day to honor women all over the world who are enacting societal changes in the world’s attitude toward women’s rights and equality. Today, women are breaking into many roles as CEOs, government officials, and social activists while still holding important traditional roles as mothers. In earlier celebrations, International Women’s Day highlighted the struggles of women to earn equality, while today many celebrations are highlighting successes of women’s hard work in their communities.

At Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance, we’ve spoken to many strong women working hard to improve the quality of cancer patients’ lives, as well as raise awareness for the deadly disease of mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases. Today, we wanted to thank these women for contributing to our community and highlight their contributions to our blog. Read their inspiring stories and share these with the important women in your life to honor International Women’s Day.

"Help Your Relationship to Thrive Through Cancer"
Dr. Andra Brosh, who wrote a piece on how to ensure that your relationship stays strong though cancer.

"Beauty That Suits YOU"
An Interview with Patricia Brett, owner of Veronica Brett, a swimwear collection of sexy, classic swimsuits for breast cancer survivors.

"From Olympic Gold to Ovarian Cancer: Our Interview with Former US Gymnast Shannon Miller"
An interview with Shannon Miller America’s most decorated U.S. gymnast and ovarian cancer survivor.

"Two Sisters, Two Countries, One Goal"
Leah and Stacy- two sisters who joined together to fight against the asbestos industry after losing their father to mesothelioma.

"Stories of Survival: Jan Egerton"
An interview with Jan Egerton- an important and inspirational Meso Warrior.

"When Cancer Got Big, God Got Bigger!: My Journey With Mesothelioma"
An interview with Rachel Shaneyfelt, a mesothelioma survivor who is excited to offer hope and support to those facing similar challenges.

"How to Kick Cancer's Butt… and Then Some!"
And we can't forget our women who Kicked Cancer's Butt... and Then Some!

A cancer diagnosis can bring out the fighting spirit in many patients. Despite grim statistics and difficult treatments, read these inspirational stories of women who looked their prognosis in the eye and kicked cancer's butt! Their diagnosis not only inspired these strong women to fight for their life, but it also inspired them to give back to the cancer community in huge ways. By starting organizations, businesses, and events to name a few, these women are spreading awareness and hope to so many fighting similar battles.

Denise McCroskey - Breast Cancer Survivor

When Denise McCroskey was diagnosed with Stage 3 triple positive breast cancer in October 2012, she began a blog so she could inform family and friends of her progress. Denise had no idea that her blog would impact and inform over 60,000 people about breast cancer from 126 countries in one year. Denise chronicled her journey with over 100 blog posts about her mastectomy, five months of chemotherapy, 33 radiation treatments, and lymphedema as a result of lymph node involvement. While writing, she gives helpful tips sprinkled with a little humor to help others navigate the tumultuous journey of breast cancer.

Over 500 women have contacted Denise for a listening ear. The majority of women and men who write are enduring chemotherapy and need encouragement to get through it. Breast cancer survivors frequently contact Denise because they need assistance in how to adjust to their new lives after cancer. Visit Denise's blog at denise4health!

Mary Treacy O’Keefe - Breast Cancer Survivor

In 1999, Mary Treacy O’Keefe was diagnosed with breast cancer. Within days of her mastectomy, she developed life-threatening infections. Besides good medical care, she credits healing touch with her dramatic recovery. This holistic treatment was her first exposure to the integrative therapies that helped foster healing of mind, body and spirit. Mary also used guided imagery and support groups to deal with the fear and anxiety that so often accompany a cancer diagnosis. As a result of her own and others’ positive experiences with complementary therapies, Mary co-founded Well Within, a nonprofit wellness resource center in 2004. Thanks to many caring volunteers (including Mary), Well Within offers low cost and free holistic therapies, workshops, retreats and support groups to anyone seeking healing and wellbeing. An author and speaker, Mary also hosts the Hope, Healing and Wellbeing internet radio show. For more information, please visit Well Within or Mary's website.

Tari Prinster - Cancer Survivor

Tari is a cancer survivor and yoga teacher since 2003. She is the founder of Yoga4Cancer and the Retreat Project (nonprofit) -businesses that are bringing specialized yoga to cancer survivors through classes & retreats. Also she leads a robust teacher training program to enable yoga teachers to adapt all styles to fit the unique needs of cancer patients & survivors.

“I found yoga a powerful tool to manage the daily challenges of cancer treatments as well as the side effects and life-long vulnerabilities they create. Yoga gave me emotional support & spiritual comfort so needed during recovery. I was curious why yoga was doing so much for me. My research made it clear why yoga strengthens the immune system, thus providing, among other things, protection against a cancer recurrence.”

Through research, she has developed a carefully constructed system of yoga poses and sequences, each one based on the unique needs of cancer survivors. Her practical guide to the benefits of yoga for all cancer patients will be published in her book, "Yoga Prescription: Using Yoga to Reclaim Your Life During and After Cancer" out later this year.

For more information, please visit y4c.com

Alisa Savoretti - Breast Cancer Survivor

A breast cancer survivor and Las Vegas Showgirl, Alisa Savoretti was 38 and without insurance at the time of her diagnosis. Following a mastectomy and only 5 months after finishing her chemotherapy, she returned to the Las Vegas stage and her career as a professional dancer – this time however, minus one breast. Alisa had to wait nearly 3 years to acquire her own reconstruction. She realized then that there is a huge gap in treatment that existed for “uninsured” women suffering from a mastectomy. Founded by Alisa in 2003, My Hope Chest helps women with the last step in breast cancer treatment – reconstruction. The national organization is the only one of its kind that links women who need reconstructive surgery with surgeons who are willing to do the work on a pro-bono basis.

Katie Wilkes - Melanoma Skin Cancer Survivor

When diagnosed with melanoma skin cancer, the most deadly type of skin cancer, at age 23, Katie was scared, confused, and felt guilty. An avid tanning bed user as a teen, she felt responsible for her cancer. She also felt discouraged by her friends who continued to use tanning beds after they learned of her diagnosis. In 2012, Katie launched her blog, Pretty in Pale, with the mission of educating young people about skin cancer without sounding preachy. In February 2013, she testified in support of a tanning bed ban for minors in Oregon, and she's coordinating the 2nd Annual Portland Melanoma Walk. Katie is currently cancer free and hopes to continue advocating for early detection and prevention of skin cancer.

Heather Von St. James - Mesothelioma Cancer Survivor

At the age of 36, and only 3 ½ months after giving birth to her first and only child, Heather Von St. James was diagnosed with pleural mesothelioma. With a prognosis of 15 months if she decided to forgo treatment, Heather knew she had a rough road ahead of her. Her quest to survive in order to be there for her daughter led her to Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston where she underwent a risky and fairly new surgical procedure called an extrapleural pneumonectomy.

Today, Heather is a seven-year survivor and continues to share her story as a means of inspiration for mesothelioma. Because mesothelioma has such a grim prognosis, Heather carries out her mission to be a beacon of hope for those afflicted with mesothelioma by sharing her story of faith, hope and courage both as a keynote speaker at conferences and through social media forums. Every year, on the anniversary of her surgery, Heather celebrates "Lungleavin Day" It's a celebration of life and hope, and each year the guest list grows. What started out as a celebration with family and loved ones has now become an event for the greater mesothelioma community with money being raised for mesothelioma research. Her blog is a place of inspiration for so many people dealing with mesothelioma.

Thinking of getting wrist deep in a home DIY project you saw on Pinterest? Still using an ancient appliance from your first apartment because it seems to be just as good as new? While many of us may have an “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” attitude, some of your best money saving ideas can pose a serious health risk. Within your home and other unexpected places like schools and appliances, asbestos, a carcinogen known to cause asbestosis and mesothelioma, can linger.

Asbestos was once used in more than 3,000 consumer products. As a well-known fire resistant and durable product, asbestos use was heavily regulated in the late 1970s after it was discovered to cause cancer. However, many buildings and products may still contain asbestos; here are 5 shocking places where asbestos can be found in your home:

Crock Pots

If you’re using a crock pot handed down to you from who-knows-where, you may want to consider replacing it with a new model. Prior to regulations, crock pots used in the lining between the outer and inner pot to retain heat, as well as in the power cord to prevent electrical fires. Chrysotile, or white asbestos, was the most common of the six types of asbestos used in appliances. While exposure to chrysotile asbestos is less likely to cause cancer, it is still a toxic substance.

Hair Dryers

Around the late 1970s when asbestos was being regulated, a consumer report showed that many hair dryers manufactured domestically were emitting asbestos fibers. While at the time U.S. manufacturers agreed to discontinue the use of asbestos in their products, the manufacturing of almost all hair dryers has been outsourced to foreign manufacturers where the environmental regulations on asbestos are few or non-existent.

Popcorn Popper

Another common household appliance that was found to contain asbestos is the popcorn popper. The devices use an electrical element that heats the air to pop the popcorn and, for some manufacturers, asbestos was used in the electrical element. Much like crock pots, asbestos may have also been used in the power cords as a heat insulator. Similar to hair dryers, popcorn poppers manufactured overseas could potentially still contain traces of asbestos in their product.

Baby Powder

Baby powder contains talc. Talc is a mineral that is mined around the U.S. and was often found to have the presence of tremolite asbestos within it. While many domestic manufacturers have taken safety measures to prevent levels of tremolite in their mined talc to later be used for cosmetic products, foreign manufacturers tend to have less environmental regulations on asbestos use and allow contaminated products to enter the country.

Home Renovations

When it comes to taking on a new DIY project at home, consider the age of your home if you’re pulling down sheetrock, lifting flooring, or removing a popcorn ceiling texture. Many older building materials contained asbestos for its durability. With asbestos fibers put into these products, the materials would last much longer. However, today with the link to mesothelioma cancer, a homeowner should consult the advice of a professional contractor or asbestos abatement company before potentially exposing oneself to this dangerous carcinogen during a renovation project.

There are many other places throughout your home where asbestos can be found hiding. Be sure to consider the year of your home or appliance that you’re inspecting for asbestos-containing parts, as well as where the materials were manufactured. Limiting your exposure risk to asbestos in your home can help prevent the chances of you or a loved one developing an asbestos-related disease later on in life.

Today, February 4th, is World Cancer Day. Tag your loved one who is fighting, has survived, or has lost the battle to cancer on our Memory Candle and SHARE it to keep the flame burning!

Last year, the Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance shared this photo via Facebook in support of World Cancer Day and received over 18,000 likes and was shared over 220,000 times. This year, we hope to continue to share our virtual candle to support World Cancer Day and spread awareness for victims, survivors, and loved ones affected by mesothelioma.

World Cancer Day was founded by the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) as a day for raising awareness for all types of cancer to encourage education, detection, treatment, and prevention. This year’s mission of World Cancer Day is focused on Target 5 of the World Cancer Declaration—to dispel the myths and misconceptions about cancer. These myths are:

Myth 1) Cancer is just a health issue.
Myth 2) Cancer is a disease of the wealthy, elderly and developed countries.
Myth 3) Cancer is a death sentence.
Myth 4) Cancer is my fate.

This year on February 4th, tag your loved one who is fighting, has survived, or has lost the battle to cancer on our candle and SHARE it to keep the flame of our Memory Candle burning!

The Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance would like to thank Kayla Hammons, the Advocate of the Month for February. Below is an interview with Kayla about how mesothelioma affected her stepdad Ron and her way of life. Kayla has been active in our Facebook community and continues to support others affected and spread the message of MCA.

MCA:Has cancer affected you in some way? If so, in what way? Tell us about your experience.

Kayla Hammons:My stepdad Ron was my hero. He was the strongest man I knew. In January of 2012, he began to have chest pains. We thought he was having a heart attack. He had smoked for years and had just celebrated his first year with no smoking. As the months went on, he became worse. He started to have leg pain, which the doctor attributed to fibromyalgia. The VA hospitals ran test after test from CT scans to nuclear scans and found nothing.

We finally took him to St. Francis Medical Center. They found that he had a softball size lymph node in his abdomen. It took 3 times before they would actually hospitalize him. The oncologist there ordered a needle aspiration. He said Ron's symptoms went along with lymphoma, which is one of the easiest cancers to fight. When the tests came back, my parents went to Dr. Sobti. He told Ron that he had 6 months to live. He didn't know what kind of cancer Rob had, no one did.

My mom and Ron immediately asked for a second opinion. We went with another oncologist. I knew he needed someone special to take care of him. I found Dr. Wong who specialized in rare cancers and we got an appointment. We thought this would be it. In the meantime, Ron wanted to do things naturally, so we bought every cancer fighting vitamin and immune system booster in the store. My mother began to work nights, so I took the responsibility to take care of him at night. By this time, the tumor on his esophagus made it to where all he could eat was smoothies. One night, he asked for a smoothie. As I walked back to hand it to him, he looked me straight in the eyes and asked, "who are you?" I hope I will never feel that hurt again. When I walked back into the room, he asked, "where have you been?" I never knew if he knew who I was.

By the time the new appointment came, we prepared him for the drive. Dr. Wong was so nice and intelligent. He looked at us and said "you have mesothelioma". At the time we didn't know what that was. Dr. Wong wanted Ron to get into the hospital to get his numbers up and start chemo. While he was in the hospital, he and my mom got married and I was a witness. That was June 1. The morning of June 3rd he began to have trouble breathing. He died that morning with close family around him.

MCA:How has this shaped you as the person you are today?

Kayla:Since Ron's death, I've had to grow up tremendously. At 20 years old, I've learned so much in the months since. He taught me to accept people for who they are. I now know that special people come into our lives rarely. Don't take them for granted.

MCA:What was your motivation to become the MCA Advocate of the Month?

Kayla:My mom and I have wanted to get Ron's story out so that it could maybe help someone going through what we did. I believe that getting his story out for people to hear will keep his memory alive.

MCA:If you could say one thing to the world about cancer or mesothelioma specifically, what would it be?

Kayla:Mesothelioma is a killer. I feel it is the worst kind of cancer because often times you don't know until it's too late.

MCA:Is there anything else you would like to say to the MCA community?

Kayla:I would like to tell the MCA that we are all linked by this horrible disease and that if we all work together, mesothelioma won't have a chance.

The Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance recently spoke to Dr. Richard McQuellon, the Director of the Psychosocial Oncology and Cancer Patient Support Programs at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center, to hear his expert advice on how to be the most encouraging and empathetic caregiver. In part one of a two part piece, Dr. McQuellon explains why open communication and empathy can be some of a cancer patient's strongest medicine when it comes from their caregiver.

Each day thousands of people become caregivers. For most, this new role is neither easy nor comfortable. While it may sound cliché, most find one of the biggest challenges to be effective communication between the person providing care and the one receiving it. Despite the best of intentions it is not always easy to communicate well under these circumstances, or find deep empathy for something one has never before experienced.

I believe that open dialogue must not be avoided until the last minute when opportunities will be limited, but that caregivers and loved ones can embrace this time, mortal time, honestly as a way to sensitively and compassionately engage with those for whom a central fact of life is realized -- that all of our lives are time-limited. My book, The Art of Conversation Through Serious Illness, discusses how to be an encouraging caregiver and friend under the most difficult circumstances, when the possibility of death is all too real.

For caregivers and recipients, everyday conversation can become both more important and more complicated, especially when one of the partners has been diagnosed with cancer and has entered what we refer to as mortal time— the emotional experience when one becomes aware of their own mortality. The personal assumptions and histories of patients and caregivers set in motion a rhythm of conversation between them that has the power to generate consolation and hope for both. Healing conversation has two basic requirements. The more deeply we accept both, the richer the communication that will result.

The first is to listen carefully to grasp our partner’s take on things; let him or her know that we “get” what’s happening as he or she feels and sees it. Understanding another means seeing a situation from his or her point of view. Empathy is one word for such understanding. To empathize is to grasp both the events and the feelings conveyed through another’s story, to make a disciplined effort to set aside our thoughts and feelings and walk in the other’s shoes for a time.

The events are the facts of the conversation, as delivered in words. Feelings signal emotional tone and intensity. Feelings are usually expressed by how words are spoken, including nonverbal signals, and are much more complex than any transcript of words can capture. Empathy requires both attentive listening and appropriate eye contact to fathom the content and feelings of a patient’s communication. Caregivers who are empathetic invite the possibility of hope-creating conversations.

Empathy is a quality and specific behavior that allows one to enter the world of another. The experience of receiving empathy can put people in touch with their own voices, in touch with themselves. It is a skill to put feelings of compassion into action. First, we must grasp what the other is going through and how they feel about it. Then, we must convey understanding; let them know that we “get it.” Sometimes we can simply reflect back what we have heard in the simplest language possible; sometimes words are unnecessary and a compassionate nod of the head or touch of the hand is sufficient.

Empathy can be powerful medicine for several reasons.

1. Caregivers who are good listeners can gain new insight by hearing themselves (and others) talk about a situation. Often, caregivers who listen empathetically can clarify their own assumptions.
2. Clarity of a situation can lead to problem-solving, either through complex existential questions (why is this happening to me?) or practical decisions (whether to wear a wig or a scarf for a head covering). Putting experience into words can open up new understandings and possibilities.
3. Extending empathy allows the speaker to confide. Before rushing to speak or resolve an issue, pause. This isn’t easy. Most of us have a natural tendency to relieve the suffering of another by responding quickly, but this can shut off or interrupt feelings just at the moment they need to be expressed.
4. Allow the speaker to name his or her fear; this is the first step toward mastering that fear. Mastery can bring relief, even if only temporarily.
5. We are human. While we cannot directly experience the life of another, we can do so indirectly through the quality of our empathy.

Listening deeply and responding with empathy brings us as close as we can get to forms of suffering that we have not experienced ourselves. With a rare cancer such as mesothelioma, vicarious experience is limited, but real.

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Richard McQuellon, PhD, is professor in the Department of Medicine, Section of Hematology and Oncology and Director of the Psychosocial Oncology and Cancer Patient Support Programs at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center. He received a BS in Psychology from the University of Washington, Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from Michigan State University and has over 20 years of clinical experience working with cancer patients and their families. His clinical work involves survivorship planning from diagnosis though end of life and the psychosocial care of patients undergoing extreme cancer treatments including stem cell transplantation. He has served on the editorial boards of the Journal of Clinical Oncology and Bone Marrow Transplantation and has published over 125 abstracts, journal articles and textbook chapters. He is currently on the editorial board of the Journal of Hospice and Palliative Medicine.

With the new year here, this month is filled with people making resolutions, some often too taxing to keep up throughout the year, but all with good intentions of bettering oneself. For a cancer patient, their life may feel too controlled by their diagnosis to make many changes or resolutions. There are many ways for cancer patients to make small, positive changes in their life that can help their health and outlook on their disease and life. The Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance spoke to a few members of the team at Cancer Treatment Centers of America who gave us 6 excellent ways for cancer patients to make 2013 a year of positive thoughts and actions!

1. Have a positive view.

Everybody has stressors, but if you can do one thing to feel less stressed and more in control, that will help. For example, you can clean up some clutter which will give you a sense of control and help you stay positive.

2. Visualize positivity.

Sit down and imagine something positive that could happen to you in 2013. Imagine you are better and it might help you feel better.

3. Choose to do positive activities.

Do things that make you feel good and help you stay positive. Add some music to your life. If you listen to uplifting music if can help you feel better. Watch programs that have an uplifting message, whether they are dramas or comedies. Be with friends that make you feel good. Make it a point in 2013 to connect with people who you want to get to know better or spend time with old friends that help you stay positive.

-Steve White, Director of Mind-Body Medicine

4. Keep moving.

Think about one small physical activity you can do to improve your health and that will help improve your outlook on life. A daily walk is a great place to start.

-Jane White, Director of Rehabilitation Services

5. Get enough sleep.

When people are rested they feel better and have more energy to have a positive outlook on life. Take naps ­ even for just 10 minutes it will help you stay refreshed and relaxed.

-Dr. Shauna Birdsall, Director of Naturopathic Medicine

6. Eat plenty of natural foods.

Choose foods as close to their natural state as possible, with as few added ingredients as possible. Eating foods in their natural state can help your body feel less sluggish from digesting heavily processed foods. It can provide your body with more energy to accomplish things and therefore can lead to a clearer mind.

-Stephanie Paver, Clinical Oncology Dietitian