Since 1977
Patient Support
Science Based, Patient Driven
Orthodox medicine in the United States – while unparalleled in its ability to offer state-of-the-art diagnostics, acute and emergency care, and technological excellence – has been largely inadequate in cases of chronic, degenerative, and non-specific disease conditions. Recently, there has been a great interest among healthcare consumers and practitioners alike in holistic, complementary and integrative medicine, in which patient participation is key. At the same time, much research has been published worldwide on the role of clinical nutrition, behavioral medicine and lifestyle modification in addressing illness.
Unfortunately, today's cancer patients suffer from more than cancer; they suffer from a syndrome called "information overload." Most patients are simply overwhelmed by the often confusing and contradictory cancer information provided by the broadcast and print media, the internet, conflicting medical opinions, and well-meaning friends, neighbors and relatives. As a result, they either abdicate their participatory role to the first oncologic opinion they encounter, or they end up researching themselves into completely ineffective "analysis paralysis."
The Center for Advancement in Cancer Education specializes in helping patients to negotiate the maze of available therapeutic options. It assists clients with resources and referrals specializing in clinical nutrition, botanical medicine, psychoneuroimmunology, and other innovative approaches. It provides guidance for accessing immune-enhancing programs to help prevent recurrence, non-toxic biological therapies to repair compromised body function, and creative ways to manage the side effects of conventional cancer treatments.
Thousands of cancer patients have benefited from the integrative lifestyle counseling (ILC) provided by the Center's counselors. Integrative lifestyle counseling is a service that helps clients design a holistic "game plan" to address multiple facets of their lives through various lifestyle approaches. Its purpose is to complement and enhance any medical choices a client may make. ILC can aid in the prevention and control of illness through coaching and guidance in diet, stress management, exercise, detoxification and other factors. It may include referrals to healthcare practitioners to serve an individual's special needs.
ILC is highly personalized. It pays attention to logistical, financial, and geographic limitations as well as to the belief systems of the client. The focus is on practical and manageable ways patients can make rapid, positive changes in their lives. There is no fee for service. The Center works on a donation and membership basis, and all contributions are tax-deductible. Consultations may be held in person or over the phone. To schedule a consultation with any of the Center's counselors, call 610-642-4810.
