Our Story
Hello, my name is Marc.
There’s a story behind everything, so here’s ours.
It all began with a Lymphoma diagnosis when I was sixteen. Cancer changed my life in many obvious ways, but in far more not as transparent. In the years following, I realized while science cured my disease and gave me a second chance at life, medical professionals are limited on how much they understand about their patients.
Let me explain, every body is different, a complex set of intricacies developed by genetics, environment and lifestyle. It would be nearly impossible for any one of us to know the entire story.
As I matured, I realized I had to be my own advocate, taking control of my health through diet, exercise and proactivity. All was well, until I was diagnosed with Meniere’s Disease in 2007, the same year my wife was diagnosed with IBS. Unlike Lymphoma, Meniere’s is a catchall for symptoms with no defined cause, and IBS has no medical cure. It was in the search for solutions that the idea behind What Helps emerged.
I wanted to find a place where patients could connect, share experiences and swap alternative treatments, prompting a dialogue between patient and doctor creating a more well-rounded approach to health and well-being.
A few years ago, my eldest daughter was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes. While her insulin is life-saving, her diet and supplements have made her condition manageable. So in many ways, you could say this resource is a family-affair – each one of us would have benefited from it throughout our journeys. On What Helps, I hope you find something to make you feel better, stay well, and hopefully be supported along the way.
Best,
Marc
P.S.
The COVID-19 pandemic arrived as we prepared to launch this resource. Additionally, after 30 years of remission, my Lymphoma returned. During six months of treatment, I spent many hours compiling what helped the myriad of side-effects chemotherapy presented. Now in remission, it is with great enthusiasm that I welcome you to the What Helps community. Be well.
