Tag Archives: Living With Cancer

Cancer Caregivers, Living with Cancer, Uncategorized

Dealing with Family Members Who Don’t Agree to Your Treatment Choices

Dealing with Family Members Who Don't Agree to Your Treatment Choices
Dealing with Family Members Who Don’t Agree to Your Treatment Choices

Whether you opt for cancer immunotherapy or more traditional treatment methods, some family members may disagree with your choices. With open and honest communication, you can all work together to make sure you get the support you need.

Tips for Discussing Cancer Treatment

When a family member objects to your chosen form of cancer treatment, it’s usually caused by concern for you and fear of the unknown. Experts suggest the following tips for maintaining productive and positive discussions.

– As the patient, you are the one who will be directly affected, so your wishes should be considered first. You should also feel free to change your mind if circumstances change or you get new information.

– Talk about your priorities in choosing a particular course of treatment. Knowing what’s important to you will help others understand your decision.

– People may be uncomfortable talking about cancer and treatment options for a wide variety of reasons, including fear, lack of knowledge and religious beliefs. Ask a member of your healthcare team or an experienced counselor to be involved in the discussions.

– Identify problems that may arise during treatment so everyone is prepared.

– Find out from your doctor which decisions are urgent and which ones are less pressing. This helps reduce the amount of pressure that family members may feel.

Cancer Immunotherapy with a Personal Touch

Dealing with cancer is frightening for patients and their families. At Issels®, we refuse to let the disease rob you of your individuality. Our treatments are tailored to address your personal situation and needs.

Contact us to learn more about our non-toxic cancer immunotherapy programs.

Cancer Care Tips, Living with Cancer, Uncategorized

Cancer Treatment: Tips for Eating When You Simply Do Not Feel Hungry

Cancer Treatment: Tips for Eating When You Simply Do Not Feel Hungry
Cancer Treatment: Tips for Eating When You Simply Do Not Feel Hungry

Food is one of life’s great pleasures, but if you’ve lost your appetite during cancer treatment, eating becomes more of a chore. Experts offer these easy-to-follow tips to make sure you’re getting proper nutrition, even when you don’t feel hungry.

Pre-Treatment

– The stronger your system is, the more effective treatment will be. Start following a healthier diet as soon as possible to boost your levels of vitamins, minerals and other valuable nutrients.

– Stock up on foods and prepared meals that will be ready to eat when you’re feeling too tired to cook. Focus on lean proteins, fruits and vegetables and whole-grain items.

During Treatment

– Set a goal of consuming at least two-and-a-half cups of fruits and vegetables each day. Include a variety of colors to ensure a well-rounded mix of nutrients. Don’t forget to wash fresh produce carefully to remove dirt and germs.

– Drink liquids throughout the day. Water is the top choice, and fresh-squeezed juices are also a good option.

– Don’t worry about sticking to conventional meal times. Eat when you’re hungry, not when the clock says you should.

– Try eating several small meals throughout the day instead of two or three large ones. Meal replacement drinks are a handy way to consume calories and nutrients when you’re not feeling hungry.

– Avoid raw or undercooked meat, poultry and seafood as well as unpasteurized food and beverages.

Cancer Treatment Designed Specifically for You

At Issels®, we don’t believe in generic cancer treatment for all patients. Contact us to learn how we tailor your particular treatment program to address your individual needs.

Cancer Care Tips, Cancer Treatment, Living with Cancer, Uncategorized

Issels In-Patient Program in Tijuana, Mexico

In-patient Programs are a Great Option for Quick Support when You Need it Most!
In-patient Programs are a Great Option for Quick Support when You Need it Most!

If you’ve been diagnosed with cancer, getting well becomes your top priority. Focus on your health with integrative immunotherapy for cancer treatment at our Issels® in-patent program in Tijuana, Mexico.

Top Quality Medical Facilities and Services

You will receive personalized attention beginning with your arrival in Tijuana, where our hospital driver provides private transport from the airport for you and your companions. You’ll be taken directly to the newest and most modern facility in Mexico’s largest private hospital chain.

Enjoy peace of mind knowing that the hospital meets the highest international standards in patient care as determined by the International Patient Safety Goal requirements. Modern, first-class equipment and features include:

  • CAT scan and MRI
  • Eight intensive care units and 12 operating suites
  • Outpatient surgical center
  • Emergency room and pharmacy
  • Restaurant and community areas
  • Spacious private rooms and suites

State-of-the-Art Immunotherapy for Cancer

Members of our Issels® team are experienced with both conventional cancer treatments and integrative immunotherapy protocols. Our integration of cancer vaccines into a comprehensive core program has helped a number of patients achieve long-term remission.

At Issels®, we go the extra mile to find the right solution for you, regardless of type or stage of cancer. In addition to collaborating with specialists in all medical fields, our doctors hold video conferences to discuss patients and treatments.

Issels®: Your Full-Service Resource for Comprehensive Cancer Treatment

Get the expert and compassionate cancer treatment you need and deserve. Contact us to learn more about why our Issels® in-patient program in Tijuana, Mexico is a leader in personally tailored immunotherapy for cancer programs.

Alternative Cancer Treatment, Cancer Survivors, Cancer Treatment, Living with Cancer, Uncategorized

Issels Out-Patient Apartments in Santa Barbara, California

There Truly is Nothing More Relaxing nor Refreshing than Focusing on Getting Better By the Beach.
There Truly is Nothing More Relaxing nor Refreshing than Focusing on Getting Better By the Beach.

Lifestyle and environment are two major factors that affect your health and well-being. When you receive out-patient immunotherapy for cancer at our Issels® Medical Center in Santa Barbara, relax and focus on healing with a stay at one of several charming apartments nearby.

Fully Furnished Ocean View Apartments

Issels® Medical Center is located in downtown Santa Barbara, with close proximity to shopping, restaurants and personal services. We’re pleased to offer our patients special rates on a number of exclusive, fully furnished one- and two-bedroom apartments in the area.

  • Enjoy ocean views and convenient direct access to the beach.
  • Upscale features include hardwood-style floors, ceiling fans, king-size beds and balconies and patios.
  • Each apartment has a generously sized, fully equipped gourmet kitchen.

The apartments are a perfect complement to our personally tailored immunotherapy for cancer programs. You’ll love returning from a treatment session to relax in luxurious and comfortable surroundings.

Additional Living Options

If you’re interested in other living arrangements, discounted rates are available at several suite-style hotels in the area that can accommodate any preferences. You can also choose from the variety of vacation rental apartments found throughout Santa Barbara.

Issels® Leads the Way in State-of-the-Art Immunotherapy for Cancer

At Issels®, you’re more than just a patient. Our caring and compassionate team is focused on every aspect of your healing and recovery.

Get first-hand accounts of why the Issels® difference makes us a leader in modern immunotherapy treatment. Visit our website to hear and read testimonials from patients of all ages and stages of cancer who have achieved long-term remission at Issels®.

Alternative Cancer Treatment, Cancer Treatment, Living with Cancer

Tips for Lowering Your Stress Levels While in Cancer Treatment

Taking a Deep Breath and Seeking Help Can Really Help Take Stress Down a Notch.
Taking a Deep Breath and Seeking Help Can Really Help Take Stress Down a Notch.

If you have been diagnosed with cancer, stress relief is more important than ever for your quality of life. A recent study found that relaxation techniques such as yoga and meditation actually produce molecular changes that counteract depression.

The Immune System in Overdrive

When stress triggers the familiar “fight-or-flight” reaction, it also boosts production of a molecule called NF-kB. This molecule in turn stimulates genes to produce cytokines, which are proteins that cause inflammation as part of the immune system response.

In the short term, this process is helpful in battling infections and other common ailments. Problems arise when the pro-inflammatory gene expression is chronic, leading to higher cancer risk along with accelerated aging and mental disorders such as depression.

Exploring the Mind-Body Connection

The study from the Universities of Coventry and Radboud, published in Frontiers in Immunology, examined gene behavior in 846 participants over a span of 11 years. Principle focus was the effect of mind-body interventions (MBIs) such as yoga, tai chi and meditation.

Results showed that regular practice of MBIs caused reduced production of NF-kB and cytokines. This decrease reversed the pro-inflammatory gene expression pattern, with a corresponding reduction in the risk of inflammation-related conditions.

According to lead researcher Ivana Buric, the process leaves a “molecular signature” that reverses the effects of stress and anxiety. MBIs can change the genetic code to follow a path toward health and well-being.

Immunotherapy for Cancer: A Personalized Approach

No two cases of cancer are the same. Contact us to learn how Issels® uses individually developed immunotherapy for cancer programs to help patients of all ages and all forms of cancer.

Cancer Care Tips, Cancer Caregivers, Living with Cancer, Uncategorized

Cancer Caregiver Tips: Talking About Cancer with Your Loved One

Cancer Caregiver Tips: Talking About Cancer with Your Loved One
Cancer Caregiver Tips: Talking About Cancer with Your Loved One

Are you a cancer caregiver who’s tiptoeing around your loved one because you’re afraid of saying the wrong thing? Use these tips to guide your conversations in positive and helpful directions.

Tips for Talking to a Cancer Patient

  • Don’t stress about coming up with the perfect words. This is a new situation for both of you. If you don’t know what to say, be honest about it. Your loved one will let you know what he or she needs.
  • Keep the focus on the patient. You’re there to help them, not the other way around. Talk to another friend or family member if you need a sounding board.
  • Avoid clichés or dismissive comments like “You’ll be fine” or “At least you got the ‘good’ cancer.” Of course you don’t want to be a source of doom and gloom, but minimizing the situation doesn’t make the patient feel any better.
  • Every case of cancer is different. Don’t bring up friends, family members or acquaintances and compare their situations.
  • Don’t ask for details about their cancer treatment such as blood test results or possible side effects. Let them share information if they like, but respect their personal boundaries.
  • Sometimes no words are necessary. Your loved one might want you to provide a sympathetic ear, or may prefer a period of silence. Be willing to graciously accommodate their wishes.

Personalized Cancer Treatment from Issels®

Your experience with cancer is unique, so your treatment should be also. Visit our website to learn more about cancer vaccines and other individually tailored and integrative immunotherapy for cancer treatments.