DECEMBER 2021
LINK TO HOPE NEWSLETTER
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Kentucky CancerLink is a non-profit organization whose mission is to reduce and/or eliminate barriers to screening, diagnosis, and treatment of cancer. We work alongside Kentuckians in need of life-saving cancer screenings or in need of support while on a cancer journey. We strive to be a link to hope... |
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Greetings from the Executive Director: |
"For it is in giving that we receive." - St. Francis of Assisi
Hello friends!
Here we are in the last month of the year. I try not to think about how quickly time is passing. Living in the moment can be difficult, but every now and then I get it right.
I've been thinking back over the year and the moments... those on the mountain top or in the valley, the losses, the additions, the times we have been able to gather together again...
For Kentucky CancerLink, it's been a year of growth, for which we are thankful. As we set our minds to the New Year, we look forward to continuing to grow our mission and partnerships across the Commonwealth to serve as many Kentuckians in need of life-saving screenings or support during their cancer journey as possible. To help walk with them during their mountain top and valley moments.
We can't do it without you. I'm asking you to consider making a year-end donation to Kentucky CancerLink, or even becoming a monthly donor,. We can all be a link to hope and that link is much stronger, the more we have involved.
Our team appreciates you and your support. Wishing you and your loved ones a very happy holiday season!
Cheers,
Melissa
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Thank you to CHI Saint Joseph Health for renewing your commitment to support our mission! |
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Thank you to UK HealthCare Markey Cancer for renewing your commitment to support our mission! |
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Partner contributor to the Link to Hope Newsletter: Lindsey Breeding |
Lindsey Breeding, BSN, RN lives in Lexington, Kentucky, with her fiancé, their dog, and two cats. She works as a registered nurse and enjoys writing, yoga, and trying to keep her plants alive.
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Along with dropping temperatures and snow flurries comes cold and flu season. Since the fight against COVID-19 continues, it’s even more important to stay healthy and well this winter. Here are some tips to help keep your immune system performing at its best.
Move your body daily
While it may be harder to choose to move in the cold, dark days of winter, exercise is a key component of maintaining a robust immune system. Carve out 20-30 minutes to take a walk during the warmest part of the day, or practice a yoga routine that gets your heart rate up! Any movement that gets your blood pumping counts here.
Seek the sun
Beat the winter blues and support immunity at the same time with the sun’s rays! Getting out into the sun and soaking in the natural vitamin D it provides is amazingly beneficial for our health and wellbeing. Low vitamin D levels can lead to depression, increased risk of death from cardiovascular disease, bone fractures, and increased risk of infection. For the best absorption, take in 15-20 minutes of sunlight around midday (wait to apply sunscreen until after this time.)
Support your sleep
According to Dr. Eric Olson of Mayo Clinic, “people who don't get quality sleep or enough sleep are more likely to get sick after being exposed to a virus…lack of sleep can also affect how fast you recover if you do get sick.” While you’re sleeping, the immune system releases protective cytokines, which need to increase during illness or stress. Sleep helps your body to heal and recover from the previous day and bring it back into equilibrium. Adults need 7-8 hours of sleep per night to reap the benefits of a good nights’ rest.
Eat seasonal, nutrient-rich foods
Winter squashes, root vegetables, and healthy fats are key components of a healthy diet during the coldest time of the year. Foods such as beets, sweet potatoes, carrots, squash, and dark winter greens provide vitamins C and D, two of the nutrients we need most during winter to keep us well. Preparing them in warm soups, stews, and casseroles helps us feel comforted and nourished even as the world seems frozen outside.
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When the sun begins to set before 6pm, life can feel a bit dreary. Finding small moments to indulge and relax can help beat the winter blues! Check out these warm, festive winter beverages to spice up your winter evenings and take a moment to unwind.
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Ask Karmell - Skin Care Tips |
Karmell, a KCL Certified Patient Navigator is also a licensed esthetician.
**Cannot diagnose skin conditions or possible skin cancer. Please see your medical provider for any concerning issues.
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Until there is a cure for cancer Kentuckians need hope today. Link 2 Hope is a monthly podcast featuring experts discussing ways to remove barriers for Kentuckians in need of screening, diagnosis and treatment for cancer.
You can also listen to Link 2 Hope on whichever platform you listen to your podcasts. Subscribe to be informed when new episodes are added!
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Each month on WKYT, a Link to Hope story is featured with Amber Philpott.
THANK YOU to WKYT for their partnership!
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The Kentucky CancerLink office will be closed from Friday, December 24, 2021 for the remainder of the year. We will return to the office for regular business hours on Monday, January 3, 2022. |
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KENTUCKY CANCERLINK
2425 Regency Road, Suite B
Lexington, KY 40503
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Phone: 859-309-1700
Toll-Free: 877-597-4655
Fax: 859-368-8418
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