Health and Me

Aarushi Bhadury

Morning Habits That Make Sure Your Cortisol Levels Stay Under Control Throughout The Day

Everybody has a unique way of going about their morning routine, while some people enjoy being up early, getting chores done before going about their day and others like sleeping till late for as long as they can and then rush through their routine to reach office on time. 

Even from general observation, one can tell that the better way is to wake up early as rushing every morning seems very exhausting. <span>Waking up early</span> has a big impact on your hormones, especially cortisol. Keeping this rhythm steady is important for your overall health, and your morning habits play a key role in how well your body manages this hormone. 

WebMD explains Cortisol is like your body's natural alarm clock and stress manager. When it's working right, it helps control your daily rhythm, like when you feel awake and sleepy. It when it's out of balance, it can cause problems. If you have too much cortisol for too long, you might feel anxious, gain weight, have high blood pressure, or struggle to sleep. On the flip side, too little cortisol can make you feel tired, have low blood pressure, and make it hard to handle stress. Research has also shown that long-term problems with cortisol can even increase your risk of serious illnesses like Alzheimer's or depression. A big reason for this imbalance is often chronic stress, which many people deal with daily.

<h2>Habits That Ensure Healthy <span rel="noindex">Cortisol Levels</span></h2>

<h4>Maintain a Consistent Wake-Up Time</h4>

Your body thrives on routine, especially for sleep. Regular bed and wake times keep your internal clock steady, which helps manage cortisol. Weekends can tempt you to sleep in, but it mixes up your hormones. A steady schedule tells your body when to expect energy and rest. Aim for seven to nine hours of sleep nightly. This consistent rhythm aids in proper cortisol regulation, keeping you balanced.

Morning exercise has added benefits. It matches your body's natural cortisol rise, boosting alertness. Studies show it can also lower overall cortisol, improving sleep. You don't need intense workouts; gentle activities like yoga or walks are great. These movements relax your mind and body, preventing cortisol spikes. They provide a healthy energy boost, starting your day calmly without overwhelming your system.

Sunlight is key for your body's internal clock. Morning sun tells your body it's time to wake up, helping regulate cortisol. Just 15 to 30 minutes of sun can increase energy and alertness. Combine outdoor movement with sunlight for extra benefits. Walk in the park, do yoga outside, or stretch on your porch. This mix of exercise and sun significantly aids cortisol management, keeping you feeling good.

Breakfast isn't just fuel; it affects cortisol. Skipping it can disrupt your morning cortisol rhythm, potentially causing health issues like metabolic problems. A good breakfast includes proteins, healthy fats, and complex carbs. This mix stabilizes blood sugar, preventing energy dips and stress hormone surges. When your body lacks fuel, it releases extra cortisol, which is bad for balance. A balanced breakfast sets you up for a stable, less stressful day. 

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Stress management

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Everybody has a unique way of going about their morning routine, while some people enjoy being up early, getting chores done before going about their day and others like sleeping till late for as long as they can and then rush through their routine to reach office on time. Even from general observation, one can tell that the better way is to wake up early as rushing every morning seems very exhausting. Waking up early has a big impact on your hormones, especially cortisol. Keeping this rhythm steady is important for your overall health, and your morning habits play a key role in how well your body manages this hormone. WebMD explains Cortisol is like your body's natural alarm clock and stress manager. When it's working right, it helps control your daily rhythm, like when you feel awake and sleepy. It when it's out of balance, it can cause problems. If you have too much cortisol for too long, you might feel anxious, gain weight, have high blood pressure, or struggle to sleep. On the flip side, too little cortisol can make you feel tired, have low blood pressure, and make it hard to handle stress. Research has also shown that long-term problems with cortisol can even increase your risk of serious illnesses like Alzheimer's or depression. A big reason for this imbalance is often chronic stress, which many people deal with daily.Habits That Ensure Healthy Cortisol LevelsMaintain a Consistent Wake-Up TimeYour body thrives on routine, especially for sleep. Regular bed and wake times keep your internal clock steady, which helps manage cortisol. Weekends can tempt you to sleep in, but it mixes up your hormones. A steady schedule tells your body when to expect energy and rest. Aim for seven to nine hours of sleep nightly. This consistent rhythm aids in proper cortisol regulation, keeping you balanced.Engage in Mindful MovementMorning exercise has added benefits. It matches your body's natural cortisol rise, boosting alertness. Studies show it can also lower overall cortisol, improving sleep. You don't need intense workouts; gentle activities like yoga or walks are great. These movements relax your mind and body, preventing cortisol spikes. They provide a healthy energy boost, starting your day calmly without overwhelming your system.Embrace Morning Sunlight Sunlight is key for your body's internal clock. Morning sun tells your body it's time to wake up, helping regulate cortisol. Just 15 to 30 minutes of sun can increase energy and alertness. Combine outdoor movement with sunlight for extra benefits. Walk in the park, do yoga outside, or stretch on your porch. This mix of exercise and sun significantly aids cortisol management, keeping you feeling good.Consume a Balanced BreakfastBreakfast isn't just fuel; it affects cortisol. Skipping it can disrupt your morning cortisol rhythm, potentially causing health issues like metabolic problems. A good breakfast includes proteins, healthy fats, and complex carbs. This mix stabilizes blood sugar, preventing energy dips and stress hormone surges. When your body lacks fuel, it releases extra cortisol, which is bad for balance. A balanced breakfast sets you up for a stable, less stressful day. 

morning habits that make sure your cortisol levels stay under control throughout the day

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The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Yeztugo, a powerful, long-acting injection developed by Gilead Sciences, as a twice-yearly preventive treatment against HIV. The move has ignited widespread hope among global health advocates, signaling what many believe to be the dawn of a new era in HIV prevention.

With a 99.9% success rate in preventing HIV transmission in clinical trials, this injectable therapy formally known as lenacapavir, offers a revolutionary alternative to daily pills and could dramatically reshape the global HIV landscape.

<h2>Why Is <span rel="noindex">HIV Drug</span> Approval Such a Big Deal?</h2>

For more than 40 years, HIV has eluded a vaccine. While treatment has transformed HIV into a manageable chronic condition for millions, preventing new infections has remained a formidable challenge. Daily oral PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis), such as Truvada, has helped, but adherence is difficult for many especially in vulnerable populations.

That’s where Yeztugo changes the game. Its unique mechanism, longevity, and ease of use have the potential to overcome the barriers of daily pill regimens. Administered once every six months by a healthcare provider, it’s the longest-lasting PrEP option ever approved.

“This is a historic day in the decades-long fight against HIV,” said Daniel O’Day, CEO of Gilead Sciences. “We believe this marks a turning point.”

Lenacapavir is not a vaccine. Instead, it is an antiretroviral that blocks HIV from infecting immune cells and replicating. What sets it apart is its ability to stay in the body for extended periods, providing protection for six months with a single shot.

Gilead conducted two major trials to test the drug’s efficacy in over 2,000 cisgender women in sub-Saharan Africa, the injection showed 100% prevention of HIV infection.

A parallel trial involving men who have sex with men and gender-diverse individuals showed a 99.9% effectiveness rate, with only two breakthrough infections. These outcomes, published in The New England Journal of Medicine, led Science to name lenacapavir its 2024 “Breakthrough of the Year.”

Reported side effects were minimal, limited mostly to injection site irritation, headaches, and nausea.

<h2>How The New Drug Affects HIV Treatment And Prevention?</h2>

Interestingly, lenacapavir didn’t start as a preventive drug. It was initially approved in 2022 (under the brand name Sunlenca) for treating drug-resistant HIV.

Researchers at Gilead quickly recognized two features that made it ideal for prevention: its long half-life and its ability to disrupt multiple stages of the HIV life cycle.

“We saw a fantastic protective effect after just one injection—even in non-human primate studies,” said Tomas Cihlar, Gilead’s VP of Virology. “That’s when we realized we had to pursue prevention aggressively.”

In many ways, yes—at least for now. While lenacapavir isn’t a vaccine in the traditional sense, its efficacy closely mimics one. And since traditional HIV vaccine development has repeatedly hit roadblocks, some experts believe lenacapavir may be the next best thing.

“Lenacapavir used by itself for prevention is a huge breakthrough,” said Dr. David Ho of Columbia University, a pioneer in HIV research. “Its potential to curb the epidemic is enormous.”

Yet ironically, the drug’s success could make it harder to develop a conventional vaccine. Why? Because it would now be unethical to assign people a placebo in vaccine trials when such a highly effective alternative exists.

While the science is exciting, several real-world challenges could stand in the way of Yeztugo’s success, cost, access, and policy chief among them.

Previous injectable PrEP options like cabotegravir, approved in 2021, came with hefty price tags and have yet to make a meaningful global impact. Gilead has not yet announced pricing for Yeztugo, but there’s concern it may follow suit.

Additionally, logistical barriers remain. Yeztugo must be administered in a clinic by a healthcare provider and requires that recipients test negative for HIV before each shot. That’s a significant hurdle for high-risk individuals in low-resource settings.

“There’s huge promise here, but we’ve built a jet without a runway,” said Hui Yang of the Global Fund to Fight HIV, TB, and Malaria. “If we don’t address distribution, affordability, and systemic barriers, the science won’t matter.”

<h2>Who Gets Access To HIV Injection?</h2>

Gilead has signed royalty-free licensing deals with six manufacturers to produce lenacapavir generics in 120 low- and middle-income countries. But critics point out that many middle-income nations, such as some in Latin America, are left out.

Meanwhile, in the U.S., states with strong support for PrEP programs have already seen a 38% decline in HIV infections. In contrast, states without similar support saw a 27% increase, according to The Lancet HIV.

With Medicaid cuts looming and the Supreme Court considering a case that could overturn the requirement for insurers to cover PrEP without copays, the long-term reach of Yeztugo may be compromised.

“We could be standing on the verge of eliminating new HIV infections,” said Carl Schmid of the HIV+Hepatitis Policy Institute. “But without the right policies, this will remain a medical miracle out of reach for too many.”

<h2>What Comes Next In the HIV Battle?</h2>

Gilead is already working on a once-a-year formulation of lenacapavir to make prevention even more accessible. The Global Fund aims to reach two million new PrEP users in the next three years, and Yeztugo could be pivotal to that goal.

There’s also ongoing research into self-administered versions of the injection, which would help reduce the need for in-clinic visits—especially vital for reaching marginalized populations.

The FDA’s approval of Yeztugo is more than a regulatory milestone—it’s a paradigm shift in HIV prevention strategy. Whether this breakthrough can live up to its promise will depend on how quickly and equitably it can be delivered.

hiv drug

yeztugo hiv injection

fda hiv drug approval

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hiv prevention 2025

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twice yearly hiv treatment

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The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Yeztugo, a powerful, long-acting injection developed by Gilead Sciences, as a twice-yearly preventive treatment against HIV. The move has ignited widespread hope among global health advocates, signaling what many believe to be the dawn of a new era in HIV prevention.With a 99.9% success rate in preventing HIV transmission in clinical trials, this injectable therapy formally known as lenacapavir, offers a revolutionary alternative to daily pills and could dramatically reshape the global HIV landscape.Why Is HIV Drug Approval Such a Big Deal?For more than 40 years, HIV has eluded a vaccine. While treatment has transformed HIV into a manageable chronic condition for millions, preventing new infections has remained a formidable challenge. Daily oral PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis), such as Truvada, has helped, but adherence is difficult for many especially in vulnerable populations.That’s where Yeztugo changes the game. Its unique mechanism, longevity, and ease of use have the potential to overcome the barriers of daily pill regimens. Administered once every six months by a healthcare provider, it’s the longest-lasting PrEP option ever approved.“This is a historic day in the decades-long fight against HIV,” said Daniel O’Day, CEO of Gilead Sciences. “We believe this marks a turning point.”How Does Yeztugo Work?Lenacapavir is not a vaccine. Instead, it is an antiretroviral that blocks HIV from infecting immune cells and replicating. What sets it apart is its ability to stay in the body for extended periods, providing protection for six months with a single shot.Gilead conducted two major trials to test the drug’s efficacy in over 2,000 cisgender women in sub-Saharan Africa, the injection showed 100% prevention of HIV infection.A parallel trial involving men who have sex with men and gender-diverse individuals showed a 99.9% effectiveness rate, with only two breakthrough infections. These outcomes, published in The New England Journal of Medicine, led Science to name lenacapavir its 2024 “Breakthrough of the Year.”Reported side effects were minimal, limited mostly to injection site irritation, headaches, and nausea.How The New Drug Affects HIV Treatment And Prevention?Interestingly, lenacapavir didn’t start as a preventive drug. It was initially approved in 2022 (under the brand name Sunlenca) for treating drug-resistant HIV.Researchers at Gilead quickly recognized two features that made it ideal for prevention: its long half-life and its ability to disrupt multiple stages of the HIV life cycle.“We saw a fantastic protective effect after just one injection—even in non-human primate studies,” said Tomas Cihlar, Gilead’s VP of Virology. “That’s when we realized we had to pursue prevention aggressively.”Could This Replace HIV Vaccine?In many ways, yes—at least for now. While lenacapavir isn’t a vaccine in the traditional sense, its efficacy closely mimics one. And since traditional HIV vaccine development has repeatedly hit roadblocks, some experts believe lenacapavir may be the next best thing.“Lenacapavir used by itself for prevention is a huge breakthrough,” said Dr. David Ho of Columbia University, a pioneer in HIV research. “Its potential to curb the epidemic is enormous.”Yet ironically, the drug’s success could make it harder to develop a conventional vaccine. Why? Because it would now be unethical to assign people a placebo in vaccine trials when such a highly effective alternative exists.Is There A the Catch?While the science is exciting, several real-world challenges could stand in the way of Yeztugo’s success, cost, access, and policy chief among them.Previous injectable PrEP options like cabotegravir, approved in 2021, came with hefty price tags and have yet to make a meaningful global impact. Gilead has not yet announced pricing for Yeztugo, but there’s concern it may follow suit.Additionally, logistical barriers remain. Yeztugo must be administered in a clinic by a healthcare provider and requires that recipients test negative for HIV before each shot. That’s a significant hurdle for high-risk individuals in low-resource settings.“There’s huge promise here, but we’ve built a jet without a runway,” said Hui Yang of the Global Fund to Fight HIV, TB, and Malaria. “If we don’t address distribution, affordability, and systemic barriers, the science won’t matter.”Who Gets Access To HIV Injection?Gilead has signed royalty-free licensing deals with six manufacturers to produce lenacapavir generics in 120 low- and middle-income countries. But critics point out that many middle-income nations, such as some in Latin America, are left out.Meanwhile, in the U.S., states with strong support for PrEP programs have already seen a 38% decline in HIV infections. In contrast, states without similar support saw a 27% increase, according to The Lancet HIV.With Medicaid cuts looming and the Supreme Court considering a case that could overturn the requirement for insurers to cover PrEP without copays, the long-term reach of Yeztugo may be compromised.“We could be standing on the verge of eliminating new HIV infections,” said Carl Schmid of the HIV+Hepatitis Policy Institute. “But without the right policies, this will remain a medical miracle out of reach for too many.”What Comes Next In the HIV Battle?Gilead is already working on a once-a-year formulation of lenacapavir to make prevention even more accessible. The Global Fund aims to reach two million new PrEP users in the next three years, and Yeztugo could be pivotal to that goal.There’s also ongoing research into self-administered versions of the injection, which would help reduce the need for in-clinic visits—especially vital for reaching marginalized populations.The FDA’s approval of Yeztugo is more than a regulatory milestone—it’s a paradigm shift in HIV prevention strategy. Whether this breakthrough can live up to its promise will depend on how quickly and equitably it can be delivered.

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When wildfires rage, the first and most visible impact is on air quality. Thick, smoky skies push people indoors to avoid breathing in the hazardous particles. But a new study warns that this very move—to stay safe from smoke—could make people more vulnerable to contagious respiratory illnesses like influenza and <span>COVID-19</span>.

The findings, published in PLOS Climate by researchers from Georgetown University, suggest that increased indoor crowding during <span>wildfire</span> events could create the perfect storm for airborne viruses to spread more easily.

To understand this link, researchers used anonymized mobile phone data tracking visits to more than 4.6 million locations across the United States—ranging from parks and trails to malls and restaurants. They focused particularly on the 2020 wildfire season in Oregon and Washington, when large-scale fires blanketed the states in thick smoke between July and November.

Air quality data helped identify the counties hit hardest. The researchers then compared changes in people’s movements before, during, and after the wildfires.

<h4>People Headed Indoors—and Stayed There</h4>

The analysis showed a clear shift: as the wildfires worsened, people sought refuge indoors.

<ul><li>In Oregon, indoor activity jumped by 14%.</li><li>In Washington, it rose by nearly 11%.</li><li>Major cities like Seattle and Portland saw even bigger increases—16% and 11%, respectively.</li></ul>

More time indoors means more shared air—and a greater chance for viruses to spread among those sharing that space.

<h4>Why This Matters for <span rel="noindex">Flu</span> and COVID-19</h4>

Respiratory viruses like the flu and COVID-19 thrive in enclosed environments, especially where ventilation is poor and people are in close contact. The researchers used computer models to estimate the likely increase in infection rates caused by this behavioral shift.

Their findings? Crowded indoor spaces during wildfire events could significantly boost peak infection numbers—unless precautionary measures are taken.

Fortunately, there’s a simple step that could help counter this risk: mask-wearing indoors.

“Even a modest increase in mask use—just 10%—can help reduce the peak of infection during wildfires,” the researchers wrote. In some places, like Washington County in Oregon or Yakima County in Washington, more robust measures (over 50% masking rates) may be needed to truly reduce transmission.

<h4>Planning Ahead for a Warming World</h4>

As wildfires become more frequent and intense due to climate change, public health officials must start thinking ahead—not just about air quality but also about how people behave in response.

“Our study shows that emergencies like wildfires don’t just affect the environment—they also change how we live day to day,” said lead researcher Giulia Pullano, a postdoctoral fellow in epidemiology. “If we understand that, we can prepare better.”

In short: what protects us from wildfire smoke might leave us exposed to something else. But with awareness and action, communities can stay safe on both fronts.

COVID-19

health and wellness

wildfire

coronavirus

respiratory diseases

When wildfires rage, the first and most visible impact is on air quality. Thick, smoky skies push people indoors to avoid breathing in the hazardous particles. But a new study warns that this very move—to stay safe from smoke—could make people more vulnerable to contagious respiratory illnesses like influenza and COVID-19.The findings, published in PLOS Climate by researchers from Georgetown University, suggest that increased indoor crowding during wildfire events could create the perfect storm for airborne viruses to spread more easily.What the Study Looked AtTo understand this link, researchers used anonymized mobile phone data tracking visits to more than 4.6 million locations across the United States—ranging from parks and trails to malls and restaurants. They focused particularly on the 2020 wildfire season in Oregon and Washington, when large-scale fires blanketed the states in thick smoke between July and November.Air quality data helped identify the counties hit hardest. The researchers then compared changes in people’s movements before, during, and after the wildfires.People Headed Indoors—and Stayed ThereThe analysis showed a clear shift: as the wildfires worsened, people sought refuge indoors.In Oregon, indoor activity jumped by 14%.In Washington, it rose by nearly 11%.Major cities like Seattle and Portland saw even bigger increases—16% and 11%, respectively.More time indoors means more shared air—and a greater chance for viruses to spread among those sharing that space.Why This Matters for Flu and COVID-19Respiratory viruses like the flu and COVID-19 thrive in enclosed environments, especially where ventilation is poor and people are in close contact. The researchers used computer models to estimate the likely increase in infection rates caused by this behavioral shift.Their findings? Crowded indoor spaces during wildfire events could significantly boost peak infection numbers—unless precautionary measures are taken.Masking Can Make a DifferenceFortunately, there’s a simple step that could help counter this risk: mask-wearing indoors.“Even a modest increase in mask use—just 10%—can help reduce the peak of infection during wildfires,” the researchers wrote. In some places, like Washington County in Oregon or Yakima County in Washington, more robust measures (over 50% masking rates) may be needed to truly reduce transmission.Planning Ahead for a Warming WorldAs wildfires become more frequent and intense due to climate change, public health officials must start thinking ahead—not just about air quality but also about how people behave in response.“Our study shows that emergencies like wildfires don’t just affect the environment—they also change how we live day to day,” said lead researcher Giulia Pullano, a postdoctoral fellow in epidemiology. “If we understand that, we can prepare better.”In short: what protects us from wildfire smoke might leave us exposed to something else. But with awareness and action, communities can stay safe on both fronts.

can wildfires increase the risk of covid-19 and flu?

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<span>Cancer</span> often seems like a distant issue, you may hear about other people experiencing it, however, getting a diagnosis yourself can be difficult to imagine. It was the same for Drea Sauceda. A young mother of two, Drea, had made an immediate appointment with her doctor when she felt a lump in her breast. Although she had brushed it off as paranoia initially, the reaction of her healthcare professionals led her to realize that this is in fact serious. 

When Drea Sauceda found a lump in her breast in December 2021, she just told herself, "It's nothing. I'm too young for cancer." Even though she thought she was overreacting, the 39-year-old mom of two quickly made an appointment. But as she waited for her test results, it became clear things were serious. 

After her mammogram and ultrasound, Drea remembers them asking if she'd ever had a biopsy. It felt like a strange question. Then, her nurse rushed to schedule an MRI right away. "It slowly started hitting me that this was going to be serious," Drea said. The very next day, the phone call came with the awful news: she had HER2-positive <span>breast cancer</span>. 

<h2>Navigating Emotional Challenges </h2>

Early on, Drea found it really hard to tell her friends, family, and co-workers about her cancer. Most people were shocked and sad, which was understandable. But it took a lot of her own energy to deal with their emotions again and again. 

"I'm the type of person who never wants to make anyone uncomfortable or sad," Drea explained. "I really hated telling people. I'd ask my husband, my mom, or my sisters to do it." She found herself crying more about having to tell others and seeing their reactions than she cried about the diagnosis itself. "The social side of getting cancer is so strange," she added. 

<h2>Documenting the Treatment Journey </h2>

At first, Drea's treatment plan didn't include chemotherapy. But after more tests, her doctor recommended surgery (a lumpectomy and breast reduction), followed by 12 weeks of chemotherapy, and then radiation. Learning she'd need chemo made Drea very worried. She looked online for others' experiences to know what to expect. But she couldn't find the kind of everyday, personal stories of treatment she was looking for. 

"The doctor gives you a list of side effects you can expect, but I wanted to know what happens to people and how they'd describe it themselves," she said. "I wasn't finding that online, so I decided to write it myself." 

Drea started writing weekly blog posts, sharing every appointment, symptom, and side effect. She started the blog to help others, but it also helped her understand her own journey, especially as treatment became very tough. Drea said her body reacted badly to her second-to-last round of chemo, and she spent most of that week bloated and in pain. 

 "I couldn't even get comfortable lying down," Drea said. "It was to the point where I was almost ready to say, that's it, I'm done, I'm not doing the last dose." 

<h2>Celebrating a Milestone And New Set Of Challenges </h2>

Despite the immense discomfort, Drea pushed through to complete her treatment. She marked this significant milestone by participating in her local Relay For Life. What she hoped would be a "victory lap" turned into a joyous celebration. 

Even though Drea finished her treatment with a celebration, the good feelings didn't last long. For so long, she had a clear plan and a busy schedule of daily appointments. But when treatment ended, life slowed down and became quiet. Soon, she found herself struggling with a strong fear that her cancer would come back, along with other health worries. 

"I'd find myself in the waiting room at my primary doctor's office for a routine six-month check, and I'd start crying," she said. "During treatment, you're powering through. You're being strong. But when it's all supposed to be over, the trauma hits, and you start thinking things like, what will I do if it comes back? Am I going to get to see my girls grow up?" 

To help her with these feelings, Drea joined several cancer survivor groups. Talking with others who had similar experiences helped her realize this is a common struggle. <span>Cancer survivors</span> often face mental health issues even after the physical signs of cancer are gone, and the people who supported them during treatment go back to their normal lives. Drea said a few things have helped her cope after cancer: antidepressant medicines from her doctor, regular talks with a therapist, and breathing exercises to calm her body and mind when panic sets in. 

"I take deep breaths, take myself out of fight or flight, and think through things logically," Drea said, “Cancer is horrible, and not everyone has a good outcome," she said. "But to meet those amazing ladies and be celebrated in such an uplifting way, that was an amazing experience." 

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Young Breast Cancer Survivor

Cancer Survivor Story

Breast Cancer

cancer survivors

Cancer challenges

Cancer often seems like a distant issue, you may hear about other people experiencing it, however, getting a diagnosis yourself can be difficult to imagine. It was the same for Drea Sauceda. A young mother of two, Drea, had made an immediate appointment with her doctor when she felt a lump in her breast. Although she had brushed it off as paranoia initially, the reaction of her healthcare professionals led her to realize that this is in fact serious. Shocking Diagnosis When Drea Sauceda found a lump in her breast in December 2021, she just told herself, "It's nothing. I'm too young for cancer." Even though she thought she was overreacting, the 39-year-old mom of two quickly made an appointment. But as she waited for her test results, it became clear things were serious. After her mammogram and ultrasound, Drea remembers them asking if she'd ever had a biopsy. It felt like a strange question. Then, her nurse rushed to schedule an MRI right away. "It slowly started hitting me that this was going to be serious," Drea said. The very next day, the phone call came with the awful news: she had HER2-positive breast cancer. Navigating Emotional Challenges Early on, Drea found it really hard to tell her friends, family, and co-workers about her cancer. Most people were shocked and sad, which was understandable. But it took a lot of her own energy to deal with their emotions again and again. "I'm the type of person who never wants to make anyone uncomfortable or sad," Drea explained. "I really hated telling people. I'd ask my husband, my mom, or my sisters to do it." She found herself crying more about having to tell others and seeing their reactions than she cried about the diagnosis itself. "The social side of getting cancer is so strange," she added. Documenting the Treatment Journey At first, Drea's treatment plan didn't include chemotherapy. But after more tests, her doctor recommended surgery (a lumpectomy and breast reduction), followed by 12 weeks of chemotherapy, and then radiation. Learning she'd need chemo made Drea very worried. She looked online for others' experiences to know what to expect. But she couldn't find the kind of everyday, personal stories of treatment she was looking for. "The doctor gives you a list of side effects you can expect, but I wanted to know what happens to people and how they'd describe it themselves," she said. "I wasn't finding that online, so I decided to write it myself." Drea started writing weekly blog posts, sharing every appointment, symptom, and side effect. She started the blog to help others, but it also helped her understand her own journey, especially as treatment became very tough. Drea said her body reacted badly to her second-to-last round of chemo, and she spent most of that week bloated and in pain.  "I couldn't even get comfortable lying down," Drea said. "It was to the point where I was almost ready to say, that's it, I'm done, I'm not doing the last dose." Celebrating a Milestone And New Set Of Challenges Despite the immense discomfort, Drea pushed through to complete her treatment. She marked this significant milestone by participating in her local Relay For Life. What she hoped would be a "victory lap" turned into a joyous celebration. Even though Drea finished her treatment with a celebration, the good feelings didn't last long. For so long, she had a clear plan and a busy schedule of daily appointments. But when treatment ended, life slowed down and became quiet. Soon, she found herself struggling with a strong fear that her cancer would come back, along with other health worries. "I'd find myself in the waiting room at my primary doctor's office for a routine six-month check, and I'd start crying," she said. "During treatment, you're powering through. You're being strong. But when it's all supposed to be over, the trauma hits, and you start thinking things like, what will I do if it comes back? Am I going to get to see my girls grow up?" To help her with these feelings, Drea joined several cancer survivor groups. Talking with others who had similar experiences helped her realize this is a common struggle. Cancer survivors often face mental health issues even after the physical signs of cancer are gone, and the people who supported them during treatment go back to their normal lives. Drea said a few things have helped her cope after cancer: antidepressant medicines from her doctor, regular talks with a therapist, and breathing exercises to calm her body and mind when panic sets in. "I take deep breaths, take myself out of fight or flight, and think through things logically," Drea said, “Cancer is horrible, and not everyone has a good outcome," she said. "But to meet those amazing ladies and be celebrated in such an uplifting way, that was an amazing experience." 

'I'm Too Young For Cancer' Young Breast Cancer Survivor Details Her Survivor Story

"i'm too young for cancer" young breast cancer survivor details her survivor story

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