MP 22

Matt: Hiking in forests always feels therapeutic and is something I’ve always enjoyed doing while growing up in the Pacific Northwest. It’s also exciting when something that feels deeply good and healing is supported by science. Most people don’t need confirmation to spend more time in the great outdoors, but learning the notable impact on human health provides even more motivation. There may not be a cure for cancer, but soaking in God’s creation is one of the many healing activities cancer patients can do.

NutritionFacts.org is one of the best resources I follow for short, interesting dietary tips. Recently, their team aggregated several research studies on the anti-cancer effects of forest bathing. Simply walking in a forest and breathing the air boosts natural killer cells, a crucial cancer-fighting cell in the blood.

I drove to a new trailhead to try this out on a glorious, sunny winter day. Larch Mountain is a stunning lookout in the Cascades, from which you can view five major snow-capped peaks. Due to winter road closures, the final 3 miles leading up to the parking lot and lookout had to be done on foot. Knowing that changes were taking place in my body while on the hike was an added benefit to the day. Near the summit I sat down under a tree off the path, closed my eyes, and breathed deeply. I recommend it!

January 2021 marks one full year since my diagnosis. I have been reflecting on the fact that many stage 4 patients don’t live this long. Those that do, don’t always have an enjoyable quality of life.

I don’t yet consider myself a survivor, but have been wondering what type of support groups are available for someone like me. COVID lockdowns are making community and shared experiences absolutely priceless.

Fortunately a friend mentioned a national faith-based organization called Healing Strong with a local chapter nearby. Due to COVID related lockdowns, the Healing Strong January meeting was a virtual one. During my first virtual gathering with the group, there was fantastic conversation, prayer, and joy shared among the five of us. Future meetings will hopefully return to in-person. The local chapter has roughly 20 people currently and I look forward to meeting more of them in the future.