In a recent essay published in *The New Yorker*, John F. Kennedy’s granddaughter, Tatiana Schlossberg, disclosed her terminal cancer diagnosis at the age of 34, revealing she was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia. Schlossberg, an environmental journalist, detailed her experiences with chemotherapy, stem cell transplants, and clinical trials, during which her doctor estimated she might have about a year to live. She also expressed criticism of policies supported by her cousin, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., impacting cancer research. The essay, published on the anniversary of her grandfather’s assassination, delves into her fears and sadness surrounding her diagnosis.
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A recent study published in the journal Nature revealed a surprising link between COVID-19 mRNA vaccines and improved cancer outcomes. Researchers found that patients with melanoma and lung cancer who received either the Pfizer or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine in conjunction with immunotherapy experienced significantly higher survival rates compared to those who did not. This effect was observed even in patients with tumors that typically do not respond well to immunotherapy. The study suggests that the mRNA vaccines act as an alarm, triggering the immune system to recognize and kill tumor cells, potentially turning “cold” tumors “hot.” A nationwide clinical trial is planned to further investigate the inclusion of COVID-19 mRNA vaccines in standard cancer treatment, with the hope of extending the benefits of immunotherapy to a wider range of patients.
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AP News reports that a federal judge has ruled the detention of Ruben Torres Maldonado, a Chicago man whose daughter is battling advanced cancer, is illegal and that he must receive a bond hearing by October 31st. Though the judge acknowledged the illegality of the detention, he stopped short of ordering immediate release, citing legal constraints. Attorneys for Torres are pleased with the ruling, but must now fight to secure his release on bond as he applies for permanent residence. The Department of Homeland Security claims Torres has been living in the U.S. illegally and has a history of driving offenses.
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Former US President Biden undergoing radiation therapy for cancer, spokesperson says. The news, while certainly concerning, has sparked a range of reactions, from heartfelt wishes for his recovery to cynical predictions about the political fallout. It’s a situation that, understandably, draws out strong emotions and a lot of speculation.
Biden’s openness about his health, especially after his long career in public service, is something that many find admirable. To face such a challenge publicly, after everything he’s already been through, speaks volumes about his character. Many are sending their best wishes for a full recovery and peace during this time. It’s a sentiment that resonates with anyone who has witnessed a loved one battling cancer, a fight that demands both physical and emotional strength.… Continue reading
A Los Angeles jury has found Johnson & Johnson liable in a case alleging its talc products caused the mesothelioma death of Mae Moore, awarding her family $966 million. The verdict includes $16 million in compensatory damages and $950 million in punitive damages, though the latter may be reduced on appeal. J&J plans to appeal the verdict, disputing the validity of the evidence presented and maintaining its products are safe. This recent verdict adds to the thousands of lawsuits against the company regarding its talc products, although J&J has had mixed results, including some wins, in similar trials.
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Trump Is Shutting Down the War On Cancer. It’s hard to ignore the pattern. Actions speak louder than words, and the actions of the Trump administration paint a disturbing picture when it comes to cancer research. We’re not talking about subtle shifts in policy; we’re talking about a targeted dismantling of critical infrastructure meant to combat this devastating disease. The scale of the cuts, the personnel changes, and the overall rhetoric create a very clear narrative: Trump is, in effect, shutting down the war on cancer.
The evidence is stark. The administration has slashed hundreds of millions of dollars in cancer-related research grants, claiming these were part of D.E.I.… Continue reading
The alcohol industry, with allies in Congress and the Trump administration, has sought to bury a government study revealing the link between alcohol consumption and various health risks, including cancer. The industry’s efforts have apparently succeeded, as the Trump administration is not publishing the study, which found negative health effects starting at low levels of drinking. Simultaneously, the National Academies of Sciences published a controversial report potentially downplaying these risks, potentially paving the way for less restrictive dietary guidelines regarding alcohol consumption. This decision, seemingly in favor of the industry, could leave Americans less informed about the dangers of alcohol.
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A federal lawsuit has been filed against ICE by two Louisiana families after the unlawful deportation of their three U.S.-born children, including a 4-year-old boy, Romeo, battling stage-4 kidney cancer. The complaint alleges that Romeo, along with his mother and sister, was arrested during a routine ICE check-in and subsequently deported to Honduras without due process or the ability to make custody arrangements. The lawsuit argues that ICE violated its own policies and federal law, depriving Romeo of vital medical care and potentially endangering his life. The plaintiffs are seeking a jury trial, injunctions for their return to the U.S., and accountability from ICE officials.
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Bryan Braman, a Super Bowl-winning linebacker who played seven seasons in the NFL, has died at 38 after battling a rare form of cancer. Braman was diagnosed with cancer in February and underwent multiple treatments, including Car T-cell therapy, but the disease ultimately progressed aggressively. Despite the efforts, the cancer grew rapidly, eventually taking his life. A GoFundMe page raised almost $90,000 to support his treatment, with donations from former teammates like JJ Watt.
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It is with deep sorrow that the entertainment world reports the passing of Australian actor Julian McMahon at the age of 56. McMahon’s wife, Kelly McMahon, announced his peaceful passing this week after a courageous battle with cancer. The actor, son of former Australian Prime Minister Sir William “Billy” McMahon, had a prolific career that spanned television and film, with credits including “Home and Away,” “Nip/Tuck,” “Charmed,” and the recent Netflix miniseries “The Residence.” His filmography included “Fantastic Four” and “The Surfer,” which was released earlier this year.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood