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What is Mindfulness Tapping? Mindfulness tapping, or emotional freedom technique (EFT), is a type of mindfulness meditation that uses your fingertips to tap on certain points on your head and chest while you focus on your breath and the present moment. Tapping is said to help release negative emotions and allow for a more positive state of mind. The emotional freedom technique can be an effective way to reduce stress and anxiety, heal emotionally and psychologically, and improve sleep quality. Additionally, EFT may also increase feelings of happiness and well-being. What are the Body's Meridian Points? The body's meridian points are energy pathways, which run throughout the body. These pathways are believed to be responsible for our emotional and physical well-being. When these pathways become blocked or restricted due to stress or negative emotions, it can result in physical and mental symptoms such as pain, fatigue, anxiety, and depression. When practicing mindfulness tapping (EFT), your fingertips will tap on these specific meridian points with each round of taps lasting several seconds and focusing on a particular thought or emotion. Benefits of Mindfulness Tapping / EFT Mindfulness tapping has been shown to help reduce stress and anxiety levels by helping you focus on the present moment rather than worrying about the past or future. It can also help to reduce feelings of depression, loneliness, and exhaustion. In addition, mindfulness tapping has been found to improve sleep quality, increase positive emotions and decrease fatigue. What are the 9 Mindfulness Tapping Points? The 9 tapping points used in mindfulness tapping are: The side of the hand Top of the head Eyebrow bone Side of the eye Corner of the mouth Under the nose Chin point Collarbone point Under the arm Can Mindfulness Tapping be Used to Reduce Anxiety? Yes, EFT can be used to reduce anxiety. Studies have found that tapping can help to decrease levels of stress hormones in the body and also activate regions of the brain associated with positive emotions. Additionally, it may help to improve confidence and self-efficacy. It is important to remember that EFT should not be used as a replacement for professional help, but it can be a great tool to use in conjunction with other forms of therapy. EFT to Reduce Stress Mindfulness tapping / emotional freedom technique is an effective way to reduce stress in our lives, both emotionally as well as physically, with the aim of increasing our overall well-being. Through tapping on the body’s meridian points, we can focus and concentrate on the present moment instead of worrying about what has already passed or what may come in the future. Furthermore, mindfulness tapping can assist us in managing feelings such as depression, loneliness, and exhaustion while helping to improve our sleep quality and increase positive emotions. With dedication and practice, EFT can be a great way to help manage stress levels and take back control of your life. Basic Steps The practice of mindfulness tapping is relatively simple. You can either do it seated or standing, and you don't need any special equipment. Here are the basic steps: Decide what you want to focus on. This could be a particular thought or emotion, such as worry or stress, or it could be a physical sensation, such as pain or tightness in the chest. Tap with your fingertips on the following points while repeating a mantra or affirmation related to the issue you're focusing on: The side of the hand The top of the head The eyebrow bone The side of the eye The corner of the mouth Under the nose The chin point The collarbone Under the arm Take a deep breath and relax for a moment when you're done. Where Can You Perform Mindfulness Tapping? Mindfulness tapping can be done anytime and anywhere, and it's a great way to quickly release negative emotions and promote a more positive state of mind. The Benefits of EFT The emotional and physical benefits of EFT are well documented, but it’s important to remember that the technique is not a substitute for medical care. If you have any questions or concerns, seek professional advice from a licensed practitioner. While it may be tempting to use EFT as a way to avoid dealing with uncomfortable emotions, this approach can be counterproductive and make the issue worse in the long run. It is also important to remember that everyone’s experience with EFT will be unique; what works for one person may not work for another. Take your time and find what works best for you! With patience and practice, EFT can help you on your journey of self-discovery and emotional freedom. Focus on the present Mindfulness is a practice that helps you focus on the present moment and be in the here and now. It can be done through different techniques, such as meditation, yoga, or mindfulness tapping (also known as EFT or emotional freedom technique). Mindfulness makes you aware of your thoughts, feelings, and surroundings. When you're mindful, you're more present and less likely to get caught up in negative thoughts or emotions. This can be helpful in dealing with stress, anxiety, or pain. There are many ways to practice mindfulness, and each person may find their own method that works best for them. Some people find it helpful to meditate regularly, while others may prefer to do yoga or mindfulness tapping. The important thing is to find a method that you can stick with and that helps you focus on the present moment. The leaders of mindfulness tapping are Gary Craig and Dr. David Lake. Gary Craig is the founder of EFT, and Dr. David Lake is a leading expert on the use of EFT for anxiety and stress. Beginning Your EFT Session When you begin your EFT session, take a moment to focus on what you would like to achieve: Releasing a specific emotion, reducing pain or tension, or simply calming the mind. Having a clear intention will help to keep you focused and motivated during your session. Visualizing the negative emotion or sensation leaving your body as you tap can be helpful in promoting positive change. Putting essential oils on the points you tap can be soothing and add an extra layer of relaxation. Tapping along to music or sounds of nature can help to relax your mind and body. Doing a guided EFT session with a certified practitioner can help to ensure you are doing the technique correctly. Tapping on different points of the body can help to release emotions or sensations that are stuck. Combining EFT with other mindfulness practices, such as meditation or yoga, can amplify the effects. Keeping a journal of your EFT experiences can help you to track your progress and see positive changes over time. Sharing your EFT journey with others can help to inspire and motivate them to try it for themselves. What are the Side Effects of EFT? EFT is generally well-tolerated and has few side effects. However, some people may experience a temporary increase in emotional intensity as they begin to process their emotions more deeply. This is natural and will usually pass within a short period of time. Other possible side effects could include headache, fatigue, nausea, dizziness or insomnia. If any of these symptoms occur, it is important to seek medical advice. EFT should not be used as a replacement for professional medical care or psychological counseling. It is also important to be aware that the use of EFT can bring up old traumas or negative memories that may have been suppressed for years. It is best to proceed slowly and take extra precautions if you find yourself in this situation so that you can work through your feelings in a safe and healthy way. Practicing EFT on a regular basis can help to reduce anxiety, depression, and other negative emotions, as well as promote physical healing. With its growing popularity, more research is being done into the effectiveness of EFT for various conditions, and the results are promising. If you’re looking for an effective way to manage stress or improve your overall mental health, give EFT a try! Where to Find EFT P ractitioners Finding a licensed practitioner for EFT can help to ensure that you are getting the most out of your practice. Look for certified practitioners through organizations like the Association for Comprehensive Energy Psychology (ACEP), or search online directories such as FindaTapper.com and MindBodyGreen. Additionally, many local yoga studios and wellness centers offer classes or workshops on EFT. When looking for a practitioner, it's important to find someone you feel comfortable with and whose qualifications match your needs. Be sure to read reviews and check out the practitioner’s credentials before booking an appointment. Conclusion EFT is a powerful tool that can be used to reduce stress and anxiety, cope with difficult emotions, and promote emotional freedom. With consistent practice, you may find yourself feeling more balanced, calm, and in control – no matter what life throws at you! With regular practice, EFT can help to promote a more positive state of mind, increased self-awareness, and improved well-being. Try it today to see the impact EFT can have on your life. So why not give it a try? It could just be the thing you need to make your life more balanced. This article is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice. Please seek medical attention if you have any concerns or questions about your health.

Breast cancer is not just one disease—it can be classified into different types of breast cancer depending on how the cells in the breast appear on a microscopic level. The following are all types of breast cancer: 1. Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS) : DCIS is considered a non-invasive form of breast cancer, meaning it is limited to the milk ducts and has not spread into any surrounding normal tissue. 2. Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC): This is the most common type of breast cancer, accounting for 70% to 80% of all breast cancers, where cancer cells have invaded the surrounding tissue. 3. Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC) : Inflammatory Breast Cancer is a type of breast cancer considered to be aggressive and is often difficult to diagnose because it does not always form a lump. 4. Lobular Carcinoma In Situ (LCIS) : LCIS is considered a non-invasive type of breast cancer, meaning the cancer cells are contained within the lobules and have not spread to surrounding normal tissue. 5. Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC): Invasive Lobular Carcinoma is a type of cancer that starts in the milk-producing lobules and can spread into other parts of the breast. 6. Mucinous Carcinoma : This type of breast cancer is slow-growing and is often found in older women. Mucinous Carcinoma is rare and widely considered to be less aggressive than other forms of breast cancer. 7. Metaplastic Breast Cancer : This rare form of breast cancer can be aggressive, but treatment options are often effective. 8. Angiosarcoma : Angiosarcoma is a rare form of breast cancer and can occur in any part of the body, but it is most commonly found in the breast tissue. 9. Phyllodes Tumor : Phyllodes is a type of breast tumor that is not considered cancerous, but it can still be dangerous if not treated promptly. 10. Paget's Disease: This is a rare form of breast cancer that starts in the nipple and can spread to other parts of the breast if left untreated. Download the Free PDF: Questions to Ask Your Surgeon Download the NCCN guidelines To learn more, the National Comprehensive Cancer Network provides updated guidelines on the different breast cancer types, may start in the milk duct, how tumor cells may affect surrounding breast tissue and connective tissues, the lymphatic vessels, and therapies that can be used to treat the tumor cells. Download the NCCN guidelines for: Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS) Invasive Breast Cancer (IBC) Metastatic Breast Cancer (MBC)

By Rod Ritchie Although men have breast tissue, not many people understand that they can get breast cancer too. Any man diagnosed with this disease will tell you the blank looks they get trying to explain a diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer. So, what are the myths and facts about male breast cancer? Let’s take a look at some of the most common ones I have encountered throughout my experience with male breast cancer. Myth 1: Breast cancer affects only women. Fact: Breast cancer occurs mainly in women, but men can get it, too — this disease is genderless. The American Cancer Society estimates in the US in 2020 about 2,620 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed and approximately 520 men will die from breast cancer. (1) Myth 2: Affected men must have a genetic predisposition to get breast cancer. Fact: No, this is only true in around 6% of BRCA2 cases. (2) In these cases, as with women, BRCA1 and BRCA2 , and mutations in CHEK2, PTEN, and PALB2 genes might be responsible for some breast cancers in men. Although certain risk factors may increase a man’s chances of developing breast cancer, in many cases the cause of most male breast cancers is unknown. (3) If there is a strong family history of breast cancer (in men or women), ovarian cancer, pancreatic cancer, and/or prostate cancer genetic testing might be recommended to determine risk. (4) Myth 3: Male and female breast cancers are the same. Fact: False. Men carry a higher mortality than women do, primarily because awareness among men is less and they are less likely to assume a lump is breast cancer, which may cause a delay in diagnosis and treatment. (5) Myth 4: Because the disease is so rare, a man with breast cancer has no risk of developing breast cancer again. Fact: False. Men with a history of breast cancer may be at risk to develop breast cancer again and need continued monitoring with a physical exam in order to manage their breast cancer. (6) Myth 5: Treatment is the same for male breast cancer and has been well studied. Fact: Several approaches to blocking the effects of estrogen or lowering estrogen levels are used to treat breast cancer in women. Although many of these may work in men as well, they often haven’t been studied well, if at all. To date, tamoxifen is the best-studied hormone drug for breast cancer in men and is most often used first. (7) Myth 6: First-degree male relatives of men diagnosed with breast cancer don’t need to be aware of their risks. Fact: False. Since DNA is inherited, both male and female family members must be made aware of their risks as having one of these inherited gene changes might affect their chances of getting breast and other certain cancers. (8) Myth 7: An annual public screening program for all men would be a good idea. Fact: False. Because the disease is rare in men, there is unlikely to be any benefit in screening men for breast cancer with mammograms or other tests. Men who are at an increased risk for breast cancer should discuss genetic counseling and testing and other ways to reduce their risk with their doctor. (9) Myth 8: Male breast cancer has no symptoms. False. Possible symptoms of male breast cancer may include: (10) A lump or swelling, which is often (but not always) painless Skin dimpling or puckering Nipple retraction (turning inward) Redness or scaling of the nipple or breast skin Discharge from the nipple Myth 9: There is no difference in male breast cancer outcomes between ethnic groups. Fact: False. As with Black women, Black men have lower survival rates. (12) Myth 10: Breast cancer survival rates for men and women are the same. Fact: False. In recent years, male breast cancer patients have had worse survival outcomes compared with those of female patients. (12) Patient advocacy for male breast cancer Men living with this disease are coming out and rejecting the shame and embarrassment of being diagnosed with a so-called women’s disease. Many of us are active patient advocates for our brothers and sisters with breast cancer. In the United States, alone, around 2,620 men are diagnosed annually, and over 500 will die from breast cancer. (1) Help us spread the word: breast cancer is a genderless disease! Learn More: Resources for Male Breast Cancer Patients Genderless Breast Cancer Research The Stigma Surrounding Male Breast Cancer Becoming a Patient Advocate References: American Cancer Society. Key Statistics for Breast Cancer in Men. Available at: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/breast-cancer-in-men/about/key-statistics.html . Accessed on September 16 2020. American Cancer Society. Risk Factors for Breast Cancer in Men. Available at: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/breast-cancer-in-men/causes-risks-prevention/risk-factors.html . Accessed on September 16, 2020. BreastCancer.org. The Risk Factors for Male Breast Cancer. Available at: https://www.breastcancer.org/symptoms/types/male_bc/risk . Accessed on September 16, 2020. American Cancer Society. Can Breast Cancer in Men Be Found Early? Available at: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/breast-cancer-in-men/detection-diagnosis-staging/detection.html . Accessed on September 16, 2020. National Breast Cancer Foundation Inc. Male Breast Cancer. Available at: https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/male-breast-cancer . Accessed on September 16, 2020. Cancer.net. Breast Cancer in Men: Follow-up Care and Monitoring. Available at: https://www.cancer.net/cancer-types/breast-cancer-men/follow-care-and-monitoring . Accessed on September 16, 2020. Ref Cancer.org. Hormone Therapy for Breast Cancer in Men. Available at: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/breast-cancer-in-men/treating/hormone-therapy.html . Accessed on September 16, 2020. Breastcancer.org. The Risk Factors for Male Breast Cancer. Available at: https://www.breastcancer.org/symptoms/types/male_bc/risk . Accessed on September 16, 2020. American Cancer Society. Genetic Counseling and Testing for Breast Cancer Risk. Available at: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/breast-cancer/risk-and-prevention/genetic-testing.html . Accessed on September 16, 2020. American Cancer Society. Breast Cancer Signs and Symptoms. Available at: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/breast-cancer/about/breast-cancer-signs-and-symptoms.html . Accessed on September 16, 2020. Cancer.net. Breast Cancer in Men: Statistics. Available at: https://www.cancer.net/cancer-types/breast-cancer-men/statistics . Accessed on September 16, 2020. National Cancer Institute. After a Breast Cancer Diagnosis, Men May Be More Likely to Die than Women. Available at: https://www.cancer.gov/news-events/cancer-currents-blog/2019/male-breast-cancer-higher-mortality . Accessed on September 16, 2020. Author bio: Rod Ritchie is a Sydney-born writer, internet publisher, and breast cancer patient activist, living with breast and prostate cancers. Currently, he’s NED for both. He’s President, Board of Directors, Male Breast Cancer Global Alliance, has a website at MaleBC.org and you can follow him on Twitter @malefitness . His articles for Health Union can be found here . SurvivingBreastCancer.org Resources & Support: Podcast Weekly Meetup s Free Events

By Dawn Oswald I choose to live I choose to fight this battle I choose to survive I am the survivor I continue to survive I am surviving this terminal illness, this death sentence I choose to wake up I choose to smell the roses and watch the birds fly I am the survivor, the warrior I am the wonder women I choose to have faith, hope, and to love It is a battle, but a battle I will win I choose to continue to fight I stare you death in the eyes I choose to live, to be free I choose to take my medicine to stay alive I choose to drink my cocktail of poison I drink the wine, beer and even take a shot or 2 I choose to have fun, laugh and to smile I choose to ask for help, to speak up for myself I choose you: my family and friends I dear you to choose life over death and fight for you For you to love, to live, to laugh I choose to cry, scream, and be depressed I dear you to find what makes you happy again I choose to survival You can choose whatever you want I choose life to the end You are too a survivor, choose to survive I choose me I choose you I choose forgiveness I choose this life I choose to be a survivor For life and everything around me is my choice

By William Laferriere Here I lie Waste deep in a emotional trough Feelings turn to horror, fear, and anger Somehow resembling Edvard Munch’s monumental work “The Scream” But this flick has no denouement It may comprise a word or a sustained, high-pitched sound. It may build slowly, as a tectonic plate shifts It may slide forward, a Tsunami It may glide like Antarctica’s Lambert Glacier But it too shall come And I’ll scream for myself And all those of my sacred, scarred Community Breasts removed, our bodies torn asunder Is there value in our appearance? Can we be loved, nurtured, held intimately? Will someone always love us? But what is love? What is intimacy? How does it work? Who can be involved? Will someone ever hold me again, reach out and clasp my hand? I just want to scream

By William Laferriere What does it entail? How can I possibly do so? I’ve just been diagnosed. My first thoughts involve panic. My next thoughts are dark. I hear it’s a skill I can develop. It starts with the ability to speak up for myself. Surely I know myself best. I trust myself. I’ll do my due diligence. I know that no one is perfect I’ll be persistent. And ask lots of questions. I’ll take notes. I’ll never give up. My medical records are “mine”. I’ll not invite or allow unwelcome people from entering my medical circle. I’ll know my rights. I’ll make educated decisions about which doctors, And which procedures I prefer. If by chance I’m unhappy with my medical team- I’ll speak up I’ll seek a second opinion. I’ll know what the tests are for, And why I need them. And ask when I can expect my results. I’ll ask about alternatives, And whether or not this treatment will truly benefit me. Same for medications. I’ll ask of; And know the side effects, And whether another medication may be available and offer better outcomes. I’ll learn to read my invoices, And know the costs, And ask questions if something appears wrong. I’m committed. I’ll definitely learn to ask, And to speak up as a Self Advocate.

By William Laferriere I kissed him goodbye at the train station and boarded the 8pm Acela to New York. I was alone. I was by myself. The aisle seat next to me empty. It was just me alone with my thoughts headphones plugged to distract. My window reflection stared back at me. My heart raced as the train slowly departed South Station. I was somehow doing it. I was going to visit my brother for the weekend as planned. 48 hours prior I was packing my bags, excited for all of the restaurants, museums and city life As One should be. The only difference now was that I knew I had cancer. I thought of him. And our good bye embrace. He knew that I had cancer. He insisted I stay on plan. No one else knew, not even the strangers that took up residence in the seat beside me. I couldn’t mouth the words They were swimming in my head like a tornado, a whirlwind, a funnel that refused to drain. I could see the words. I heard the nurse’s voice as she verbalized them over the phone. But I couldn’t believe them. Cancer was floating above my ability to make sense of it all to grasp the term to realize what was happening. Literally, before that phone call I didn’t know that I had cancer even though malignant cells were thriving inside me. The power of knowing changes everything! The revolving door of strangers ushered on and off the train. It seemed that at every stop a new person would throw his bag under the seat and plop down beside me. Some placed their luggage overhead. Others took out sandwiches. I was numb. I was not hungry. I was curious to ask them where they were headed and try to make small talk - but I had no words. I buried myself deep into an oversized hoodie and sobbed silently. Summoning the courage, I went onto YouTube to watch a video about breast cancer. From professional clips produced by hospitals to 3D renderings of videos demonstrating how cancer cells divide and spread, I found myself in a click hole, fascinated by what I was watching. It was an out of body experience listening to doctors talk about it. It was factual, scientific, and to the point. The tears stopped. As the clicks continued I found it wasn’t the medical explanation I was looking for; it wasn’t until I came across a homemade video that brought me to a jaw dropping halt. She lifted her shirt. I saw the drains. She unfastened her surgical bra and peeled away the bandages. I saw the scars. Then it hit me.

By Dawn Oswald You are my 4 lovely roses As the petals of the roses fall on the ground It is not the end but the beginning of your life adventures The first petal falling represents your life I planned that seed years ago I watered you I feed you I cloth you I gave you life I watched you grow I heard your first words I saw your first steps I even heard your first cuss word I watched you get on the school bus for the very first time I took you to your practices I bandage you up when you were hurt I helped you through your sprains, strains, and surgeries I took you to school plays and church functions As you entered middle school, I watched you grow more and more each day I bought you bigger clothes as you grew I bought you that puppy you had to have As you entered high school, I helped you overcome your nerves You stayed strong and brave, I taught you well I bought you that first car and taught you how to drive- what was I thinking? I bought you, your first prom dress, how beautiful you were I was there for you all the way Through the peer pressures of life You all made me so proud, you all 4 graduated from high school As the petal continued to fall you continued to grow and warm my heart For you are my children I love you I need you I gave you the bases of life I guided your spirits early in life I saw you grow with God You are blessed my children You have me and I have you For I am here for all of you I will always be here for you, even after I am gone For you are my roses, a rose of life, my children May the petals of the rose keep falling as you grow I am proud of you joining the marines I am proud of you getting your first job I am proud of you for going to college and/or trade school How you tried the military, but realized your health and well being is more important The fact you tried is what is important Proud you got accepted I am proud of all my 4 roses I am so happy you have your own children I am a proud grandparent Now I can watch your seeds grow I look forward to the rest of my life to watch you all grow and shape your own lives As your mother I am so proud of you Continue to grow and continue to let your petals fall

By Laura and William The emotions and the fear stabbed deeply Through the numbness of shock and disbelief. The pain curled me up into a ball My knees tucked into my chest, My hoodie pulled down over my head I sobbed, realizing that this was to be me. My search terms on YouTube spiraled from “what is breast cancer” to “milking the drains”; “the iron bra”; “expanders and reconstruction”. Terms that were not part of my vocabulary, Once again, the power of knowing - it changes everything! I couldn’t pull myself away from the stories of these young women. I wanted to watch more, learn more, hear more, Follow their experiences, find a connection. On my four and a half hour train ride to New York, I watched every video I could, Somberly noticing there weren’t many. The same YouTubers would appear in my search list I had exhausted new terms and keywords. I remember the epiphany. A singular moment, sitting on my couch in Boston, My bestie beside me, as I clicked “post” onto Facebook. I was going to tell the world I had breast cancer. That I was diagnosed at 34. That I was vegan with no family history, nor genetic pre-disposition. That I was diagnosed with breast cancer I was looking to take the community along for the ride. Creating amateur YouTube videos allowed me to Speak to my experience, and helped me to process. I was able to share my experiences in real time; The day I lost my hair. My first infusion Having my port get infected Needing intravenous chemotherapy Explaining a full auxiliary node dissection Surgery hacks I wish I had known about Crawling your fingers up the wall Describing cording and lymphedema Getting my first radiation tattoos Skin irritations and radiation burns Putting myself out there, exposed to all.

By Anonymous Has my body become an impure vessel? Contaminated, polluted, tainted, weakened? Or have I come whole again? Unadulterated, unalloyed, ultra pure? Has surgery, chemotherapy and radiation Altered the chemical balance That ultimately manifests itself In my very essence? I refuse to think of myself as tainted, diluted or thinned, Instead I’d rather enjoy the thought of a fine restoration, Enabling me to overcome the gnarly essence of Malignancy. For who am I to become? Don’t I have the most input? Going forward, thinking it through Am I enough? Shall I reach out and offer myself To a community in need, Or re-situate within the comfort And confines of myself? The answer is contained above.

By Anonymous Thoughts while rustling through newly fallen oak & maple leaves Alas it’s Autumn in full swing The Maples and Oaks Deliberately abandoning their foliage The air is cool, crisp, inviting. I meander through the fallen leaves Struck by their elegance Their Grace, their complexity Their significance. Once green and majestic Taking in the sun’s light Synthesizing foods From water and carbon dioxide. I contemplate the science of Photosynthesis And how they use chlorophyll to Generate the oxygen we breathe without a thought. Newly brown, and other assorted fading colors Lying on the ground Randomly joining hands Their work is not finished. I quickly recall Frost And his epical Stopping By Woods His words “lovely, dark and deep And miles to go before I sleep."

By William Laferriere Often times we feel an ungodly weight upon our shoulders And it becomes so unbearable. That through a worldwide pandemic We’ve allowed our societies to be So very divisive and loathsome. That so many women are diagnosed Or die daily from a heinous BC Dx. That grifting, lawlessness, and corruption Quickly displaces civil norms. That caring for one another Becomes a sign of weakness. That every man for himself as modus operandi Takes hold front and center. That we can’t even agree On the message of the many holy books. Dead Stop! But through the darkened lens of the above One can scratch below the surface And uncover random acts of caring. And unbiased support Available to all That comes without a price tag. That there exists a line of positivity Below the gradations of despair That all, regardless of race, creed, bank account or culture Can see the light of justice prevailing. That there is hope There is intimacy There is love There is kindness, and respect. There is…

By Desiree LeRoy though I write about what has happened to me, it is not who i am. it is not my identity. i am learning this. it takes practice. it is not to be carved into my walnut urn. the ocean will not carry ashes of pain. no. my ashes will illuminate the waves and carry the next surfer home.

By William Laferriere I’m not suggesting one should “make a better life,” because it’s uncertain why progress is critical. By all means bear in mind the adage that “She not busy being born is busy dying.” But I am suggesting that you live life. Not just endure, not just suffer, not just pass through, but live it. Stare it down. Understand who you are, and what you are, and where you’ve come from, And better still, where you’re going. Take chances. Recognize your own body of work. Learn to enjoy it, and be proud. Express yourself, write epic poetry, paint your vision, seek destiny, sing that song of yourself, channel Dorothy, create that new narrative. Seize upon every moment, every nuance, every metamorphosis, while reconstituting. Today happens but once.

By Kate Meyer-Currey when you got with me I had no idea it could be a life-sentence you’re an armed robber holding me under false imprisonment in my own body gun to my head until I get your bally off and see if you’re just a mosquito a runner fake cancer-gangster or a real big OC man tumour ready to take me down you’ve gone OT in my left boob conch among its lumps cuckooing my cells feeding my veins like county lines waiting for reload so I’ve handed myself in to the hospital to get your mammogram mugshot and radiography recognition so you stand out in a microscope line up plus the biopsy of tissue you left at the crime scene every contact leaves a trace so either it’s a case of mistaken identity wrong boob wrong time or you’re bang at it making me play russian roulette depends if you’re just a rubber bullet or full metal jacket collateral feels the same right now either way you’re the snake that grassed me up so I’ll be wired up when they send a shank team in to get you out I hold you to account for wrecking my gaff right now you’re bailed to my home address and I’m waiting on recall to hospital while you cook up more dodgy cells to make me your cancer crack whore roll on sentence date hope you go away for good for possession with intent to supply and I get out on tag with breast care nurse probation to scare me straight got a restraining order so stay in your dead pool breach my chest wall again and it won’t be double jeopardy no you’ll be dead man walking because I’m living my Shawshank Redemption fantasy baby no word of a lie. Bang you’re dead to me.

By William Laferriere No matter the stage, or place on the continuum from the start of the lockdown we knew the pandemic to be a physiological and psychological threat to our individual health and potentially render us into that proverbial rabbit hole Many report symptoms of anxiety or depression the increase fairly telling depression everywhere on the rise so to is the scramble to find solutions that may provide relief So we ask are you lonely tonight your stars out of alignment do you realize there is someone that you can turn to who can identify with and understand what you are going through and extend a helping hand to alleviate the depths of despair and desolation And in turn perhaps you too can provide a measure of relief to someone else conceivably a less fortunate soul they need not be friend or acquaintance, or friend to a friend maybe just a stranger traveling alone through the darkness It doesn’t require an effort greater than what you think you can provide by simply extending a hand a voice a smile a meal a ride If it’s in you please consider answering the call

By William Laferriere (The ethics of a genetics tale - dedicated to Trish) An 18th century poet once upon a time aptly noted that some to misery were born he then bespoke of endless night and all that pertains. Still as we seek progress spot on germline mutation discoveries allow us to see through the eye of the truth that is to be. And navigate through the nascent struggle discerning the ethics of involvement the sharing of detail the need to know. A patient’s protections the shattering of consciousness a smattering of objectivity the toxicity of detail. Emotional recusal from the deleterious effects understandable and undeniable a blink of the eye The honor system under siege a metaphysical breakthrough of a sort heretofore unknown help indeed on the way.

By Desiree LeRoy Winter is here. They say a time for reflection. Spring is coming. But be still now a time for action soon but wait. No. Winter, spring, fall, and summer, early, mid, and late, I am not a home for wasps to nest. --- Connect with Desiree on Instagram: @somaticpoetry

By William Laferriere I could never have envisioned Something more difficult More treacherous, and yet more sublime, than Sailing Stormy Seas When persistent unseen waves Pound you and the afterdecks, Knocking the rails, as the boom vang screams Forcing you to man the helm Both hands in a locked embrace Anticipating that mysterious rogue wave a potential overboard It’s as if your life too Staggered and dependent upon Your ability to navigate the tempest and withstand the test Your intellect channels The Ancient Mariner The winds howling almost jeering And yet you navigate by compass Under a relentless blow Water swelling water everywhere True danger presents itself And yet no one aboard Thinks twice, or doubts, having faith in the vessel And then I met An entire community Biopsied and diagnosed so beautiful in their resilience Like that lost sailor Who spent her time at sea And withstood the torrential as the shore lights ultimately beckoned

By Ashley Leiss A poem for children and their families about how bad days make us better people. Your struggle is not for nothing! I want to tell you the story of how I became a new bird! Have you ever been sick lonely, or sad? That’s what happened to me and I was so mad. One ordinary day I woke up feeling strange Somehow I knew my life would never be the same. I didn’t want to see other birds, they could never understand! When you wake up one day and things go unplanned. I watched them fly by in the beautiful breeze. From tree to tree feeling so free. There I was alone in my nest A sad, heavy feeling resting on my chest And each day the other birds would try to help me Bringing me food and stories of the wonders that they’d see. As the summer turned to fall and my wings felt so weak I was so tired and scared no birds would recognize me! But one day I woke after a very long nap My friend the Sparrow stopped by and helped me change tracks. “Each day is a gift no matter how hard. When we are sick and tired it can be a struggle to see that far. I know you look different and feel different too, and you’re trying each day to feel like the old you. But don’t look behind or too far ahead, just look up and trust God instead.” I hugged the Sparrow so tight with all of my might and I looked at the moon so differently that night. You see, I became a new bird, His love set me free I began feeling stronger from inside my tree. I tell you this story if you’re becoming a new bird too. Or if someone you know seems a little bit different to you. The next day I flew high out of my nest And saw all my friends and laughed hard deep in my chest. On my way home I saw a sad bird who needed my care. He needed some hope that was now mine to share. I told them the story of how much I’ve changed. And that how without hard days, they’d just all be the same.

By William Laferriere A recent proclamation from The US Surgeon General Provides a warning… Fair enough He describes the rise of Feelings of loneliness, of fatigue and diminishing self worth… And of course the associated rise of despair That insidious feeling of no longer Having any hope Can be quite debilitating… Is there a lifeline to be thrown? Successful mitigation of that threat Requires outreach, community and effort For alone we see difficulties… With others a vision of hope For a Mental Health Crisis To be narrowly averted Seek a positive consciousness… And drive a notable fundamental shift So let’s collectively meet the moment And brush transitory politics aside For Navigation requires an all encompassing effort… Regardless of vessel It’s based in caring A discernment of courage A removal of stigma… Progressing towards the cure Seek help it’s out there.

By Brookshire McDonald The ear doctor doesn’t treat toes; nor does the toe doctor Treat ears. This is true for you And also your peers. On top of this You need to be aware Of which ologist to seek To receive the proper care. There’s gastro for stomach And a surrounding part. This is helpful to learn Just for a start. Then cardio if it’s your heart That’s bothering you. Optho for eyes, ortho for bones, dermo for skin- Just to name a few. You need a clue to be aware of your Dr. visit, so you won’t think you’re Seeing the OB-GYN and when you arrive there It’s evident it’s the Protologist Who’s providing your care!

By Sara Kandler I shift the leather rolling bag to my other arm before hoisting it up the stairs to the teacher’s room My fifty-something colleague passes lowers her chin while raising her darkened eyebrows above her glasses serious green eyes knowing Somehow they all know why I missed last week And some know why I’m back so soon To never miss a beat and not submit to doom the self-blame the shame the I knew I shouldn’t have been so stressed or the now I’m becoming so insane To say I beat it with a smile and a goody bag of rouge sticks feels like a giant hokey pink thumbs up No — my wing is clipped and I’m not singing The whirring wheels of my rolling bag announce my arrival and I roll with the punches down every hallway Wishing for my very own punching bag Not recognizing myself Who used to feel like one of the kids Now seeing me in their eyes Another fifty-something Shifting the weight to her stronger side And taking a breath Before taking the stairs. Good to see you, she says. Thanks. It’s good to be back.

By Brookshire McDonald From the CO-VID we want To stay away. So we’ll schedule a tele-visit When you call today. Listen carefully as our menu Is not the same. You may wait until the end To leave birthdate and name. Press “1” if pregnant You might be. Hit “2” if it’s a rash You do see. “3” is or an itch That bothers you. Punch “4” if—— Well you don’t have a clue. The next visit we have Is three months from now; So we hope you’ll feel better Somehow! You’ll go to a place Where you can spread out. Isn’t this what the visit Is all about? The dining room table Is a great place. You can lie there And not even show your face! We’ll take a quick peak As we glance “down there”; And as directed by HIPPA We will not share. A call will be made To the pharmacy you pick, And we hope the medicine Makes you no longer sick. If your insurance has changed Inform us when you call. Charges for in-person and tele-visit Are no different at all. We appreciate your responding to the survey Coming up next- Then sending our number to all your friends By text!

By Sara Kandler I take to you like a fish to water injured and humbled shudder sink hit rock bottom I summon strength from within begin to wriggle through jagged grooves an algae brine infuses my parched gills you sea me sustain me I can breathe Now I rise heading windward ride your heaving tides perched high above deep sea canyons sunlight glinting off my bare back Your alcoves slowly recede into delicate pools far afield a fable, an elixir, a shield