What makes the human brain unique? We compared it with monkeys and apes to find out
Story by Rogier Mars, Katherine Bryant
Scientists have long tried to understand the human brain by comparing it to other primates. Researchers are still trying to understand what makes our brain different from our closest relatives. Our recent study may have brought us one step closer by taking a new approach—comparing the way brains are internally connected.
The Victorian paleontologist Richard Owen incorrectly argued that the human brain was the only brain to contain a small area termed the Hippocampus minor. He claimed that made it unique in the animal kingdom and, he argued, the human brain was therefore clearly unrelated to other species. We’ve learned a lot since then about the organization and function of our brain, but there is still much to learn.
Most studies comparing the human brain to that of other species focus on size. This can be the size of the brain, size of the brain relative to the body, or the size of parts of the brain to the rest of it. However, measures of size don’t tell us anything about the internal organization of the brain.
For instance, although the enormous brain of an elephant contains three times as many neurons as the human brain, these are predominantly located in the cerebellum, not in the neocortex that is commonly associated with human cognitive abilities.
Until recently, studying the brain’s internal organization was painstaking work. The advent of medical imaging techniques, however, has opened up new possibilities to look inside the brains of animals quickly, in great detail, and without harming the animal.
We used publicly available MRI data of white matter, the fibers connecting parts of the brain’s cortex. Communication between brain cells runs along these fibers. This costs energy and the mammalian brain is therefore relatively sparsely connected, concentrating communications down a few central pathways.
The connections of each brain region tell us a lot about its functions.
The set of connections of any brain region is so specific that brain regions have a unique connectivity fingerprint. In our study, we compared these connectivity fingerprints across the human, chimpanzee, and macaque monkey brain. The chimpanzee is, together with the bonobo, our closest living relative.
The macaque monkey is the non-human primate best known to science. Comparing the human brain to both species meant we could not only assess which parts of our brain are unique to us, but also which parts are likely to be shared heritage with our non-human relatives.
Much of the previous research on human brain uniqueness has focused on the prefrontal cortex, a group of areas at the front of our brain linked to complex thought and decision-making. We indeed found that aspects of the prefrontal cortex had a connectivity fingerprint in the human that we couldn’t find in the other animals, particularly when we compared the human to the macaque monkey.
But the main differences we found were not in the prefrontal cortex. They were in the temporal lobe, a large part of the cortex located approximately behind the ear. In the primate brain, this area is devoted to deep processing of information from our two main senses: vision and hearing. One of the most dramatic findings was in the middle part of the temporal cortex.
The feature driving this distinction was the arcuate fasciculus, a white matter tract connecting the frontal and temporal cortex and traditionally associated with processing language in humans. Most if not all primates have an arcuate fasciculus, but it is much larger in human brains.
However, we found that focusing solely on language may be too narrow. The brain areas that are connected via the arcuate fasciculus are also involved in other cognitive functions, such as integrating sensory information and processing complex social behavior.
Our study was the first to find the arcuate fasciculus is involved in these functions.
This insight underscores the complexity of human brain evolution, suggesting that our advanced cognitive abilities arose not from a single change, as scientists thought, but through several, interrelated changes in brain connectivity.
While the middle temporal arcuate fasciculus is a key player in language processing, we also found differences between the species in a region more at the back of the temporal cortex. This temporoparietal junction area is critical in processing information about others, such as understanding others’ beliefs and intentions, a cornerstone of human social interaction.
In humans, this brain area has much more extensive connections to other parts of the brain processing complex visual information, such as facial expressions and behavioral cues. This suggests that our brain is wired to handle more intricate social processing than those of our primate relatives.
Our brain is wired up to be social.
These findings challenge the idea of a single evolutionary event driving the emergence of human intelligence. Instead, our study suggests brain evolution happened in steps. Our findings suggest changes in frontal cortex organization occurred in apes, followed by changes in temporal cortex in the lineage leading to humans.
Richard Owen was right about one thing. Our brains are different from those of other species—to an extent. We have a primate brain, but it’s wired up to make us even more social than other primates, allowing us to communicate through spoken language.
More information: Katherine L. Bryant et al, Connectivity profile and function of uniquely human cortical areas, The Journal of Neuroscience (2025). DOI: 10.1523/JNEUROSCI.2017-24.2025
Womb Mates and Cancer: Nature, Nurture, or Something Else?
Epigenetics are changing the way we look at cancer. And may help us beat it.
Is our cancer the result of nature or nurture?
Are we the victims of faulty DNA over which we have no control? Or of lifestyle and environmental factors that we can change? Or is there a third option?
Epigenetics is the study of that third option. This fairly new science covers the process by which nurture might affect nature. That is, diet and exercise might actually change the way our DNA influences our body. It’s a complex new field and scientists are even having trouble defining it.
One way of illustrating it is through the lives of twins.
According to the theory of nature’s influence, we are formed by the genes we are born with—twins separated at birth grow up to live eerily similar lives, sharing marital history, criminal pasts, even athletic ability and sicknesses. The theory of the influence of nurture, however, maintains that our environment shapes us—our economic status, parental involvement, exposure to specific risks, diet, exercise, and so on.
Epigenetics, however, demonstrates that environmental factors can actually influence our genes, changing our genetic processes to make us more or less susceptible to disease. Research published in PLOS Genetics on the influence of diet and exercise on the development of breast cancer demonstrates this epigenetic component.
Twins share the same DNA, which can make one more likely to have breast cancer if the other one is diagnosed with the disease.
Identical twins are formed from the same egg and begin in the womb with identical DNA; as the egg splits to become twins, the DNA likewise splits and does not necessarily divide equally, meaning that even identical twins do not have identical DNA. Fraternal twins develop from two different eggs and so they share DNA in the way all siblings do.
That’s the nature argument.
But not all twins share cancer—or any disease. It is common for one twin to get a serious illness that completely misses the other twin. This is the nurture argument—if twins share DNA but don’t share cancer, the environment has to have had some influence.
National Geographic’s January 2012 issue has a cover story on epigenetics and twins, with some compelling stories that show how unpredictable disease can be even for people with shared DNA. And that unpredictability is one of the motivators for the study of epigenetics.
As National Geographic writer Peter Miller describes it:
If you think of our DNA as an immense piano keyboard and our genes as keys—each key symbolizing a segment of DNA responsible for a particular note, or trait, and all the keys combining to make us who we are—then epigenetic processes determine when and how each key can be struck, changing the tune being played.
One way the study of epigenetics is revolutionizing our understanding of biology is by revealing a mechanism by which the environment directly impacts genes.
Studies of animals, for example, have shown that when a rat experiences stress during pregnancy, it can cause epigenetic changes in a fetus that lead to behavioral problems as the rodent grows up. Other epigenetic changes appear to occur randomly—throwing a monkey wrench into the engine of nature versus nurture. Still other epigenetic processes are normal, such as those that guide embryonic cells as they become heart, brain, or liver cells, for example.
Epigenetic researcher Alejandro Burga and colleagues, writing in the journal Nature, looked at why the same genetic mutation might affect people differently, using information from the Center for Genomic Regulation in Barcelona Spain. Burga explains that identical cells do not exist:
In the last decade we have learned by studying very simple organisms such as bacteria that gene expression—the extent to which a gene is turned on or off —varies greatly among individuals, even in the absence of genetic and environmental variation. Two cells are not completely identical and sometimes these differences have their origin in random or stochastic processes.
So, while identical twins may appear identical, and while they are as genetically close as two humans can be, they remain individuals on the cellular level. One may be more cancer-prone than the other even without differences in the environment.
So, what is it: Nature? Nurture? Both? Neither?
It seems to be a complex mix of all of the above, with our cancers as unique as we are.
Improving our diet and exercise certainly have been shown in multiple studies to reduce our risk of breast cancer. But sometimes the environmental risks that make one twin more prone to illness are no more under their control than their DNA. The way the fetuses develop in the womb, for example, might improve one twin’s health while imperiling the other’s. And sometimes, that tiny variation in DNA between twins makes all the difference in susceptibility to cancer.
Epigenetics, while not answering the question of what causes cancer, is absolutely getting us closer.
The difference in cancer risk among triplets can be influenced by a mix of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Here’s a breakdown:
Genetic Variations: Even identical triplets, who share nearly identical DNA, can have slight genetic differences due to mutations that occur after the initial cell division. Fraternal triplets, on the other hand, have different genetic makeups, which can lead to varying susceptibilities to cancer.
Epigenetics: This refers to changes in gene expression that don’t involve alterations to the DNA sequence itself. Environmental factors, such as diet, stress, or exposure to toxins, can influence epigenetic changes, potentially affecting cancer risk differently among triplets.
Environmental Exposures: If one triplet is exposed to a carcinogen (like tobacco smoke, radiation, or certain chemicals) more than the others, their risk of developing cancer could increase.
Random Chance: Sometimes, cancer can occur due to random mutations during cell division, which aren’t influenced by genetics or environment.
Shared vs. Individual Factors: While triplets may share many environmental and lifestyle factors, individual differences—like immune system responses or personal habits—can play a role.
It’s a fascinating and complex interplay of factors. If you’d like, I can dive deeper into any of these aspects!
The occurrence of cancer in one triplet while the others remain unaffected can be attributed to a mix of genetic, environmental, and random factors. Here’s a breakdown:
Genetic Variability: Even identical triplets can have slight genetic differences due to mutations that occur after the initial cell division. For fraternal triplets, the genetic differences are more pronounced, which can influence cancer susceptibility.
Epigenetics: Environmental factors or random events can lead to changes in gene expression without altering the DNA sequence. These epigenetic changes can increase or decrease cancer risk and may differ among triplets.
Environmental Exposures: Lifestyle choices, diet, exposure to carcinogens, or even infections can vary among individuals, even within the same family, leading to different cancer risks.
Random Mutations: Sometimes, cancer arises from random mutations during cell division, which are not inherited or caused by external factors. This randomness can explain why one triplet might develop cancer while the others do not.
Immune System Differences: Variations in immune system function, even among siblings, can influence the body’s ability to detect and destroy cancer cells.
It’s a complex interplay of these factors, and often, no single cause can be pinpointed.
If you’re curious about a specific case or type of cancer, I can help dig deeper!
We reference time now by date of diagnosis (August 18, 2017), when Jackson got sick and after Jackson Stout was sick. That date forever changed our perspective and view on life. It’s short, but worth it when you’re surrounded by the ones you love.
On Friday, August 18th, Jackson was diagnosed with Precursor B Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia or what is often referred to as ALL. It started earlier that day with a visit to the Pediatrician, Dr. Megremis, due to his recurrent low grade fevers and leg pain. After the doctor’s visit, we were sent for blood tests at Peyton Manning Children’s hospital and an x-ray for his leg pain.
The x-ray showed nothing out of the ordinary, but we were going to hear the results of the blood test later that evening. In the meantime, Jax was still fighting a fever. We were planning on attending a pool party that evening with our church family in Indianapolis; Jax insisted that we all go – so we went. It was during that party that we received the devastating news.
The voice on the other line said that she was the On-Call Pediatrician.
She was unable to contact Dr. Megremis, but she needed to share the information before it was too late in the evening. She continued to share that Jackson’s blood test results were abnormal and we needed to get him to the ER immediately. From there came a long pause and all I could hear was sobbing.
The words she said next will change our family forever, “Jackson has Leukemia”.
My heart sank. Levy looked at me and immediately ran over. I told him the news. The doctor kept saying, “I’m sorry” through her tears. At that moment a whirlwind of commotion happened. Levy pulled Jax out of the pool and gathered the girls. I ran straight to our friend, Paula, and began bawling in her arms. Friends were helping us get the kids out of their bathing suits and into their clothes and gathering towels and all our belongings.
We paused and a group gathered and laid hands on Jackson. We prayed. A rush of calmness came over us. I remember thinking to myself, “We can do this”. In a moment’s decision, it was suggested we leave the girls with friends so that we can tend to Jackson. The girls were scared and so was Jax. They gave their brother a hug goodbye and we headed straight for the hospital. We called our family (near and far) on the way and they were able to meet us there, including our Pediatrician. I can say that Jackson’s condition only got worse that night.
Over the next 6 hours and into the early hours on Saturday morning, Jackson was poked for blood draws, which were often unsuccessful, and an IV was started, again after many unsuccessful attempts. We hated watching him go through this. Each of the many blood draw attempts had everyone in the room in tears, especially when Jackson was asking why we were doing this to him. The weekend was tough. He was in so much pain.
We could not even hold or comfort him or even hold his hand. The pain in his bones was becoming more unbearable. We had so many visitors that first weekend which I know helped our spirits. Each morning, he’d ask if people were going to come see him that day. Thanks to our “village”, they kept us sane and gave us a shoulder to cry on. They took care of the girls and kept us well fed. They supported us and jumped to action, even when we had a crazy request for personalized hospital gowns.
Monday morning came and we received an answered prayer. His procedure was scheduled to get his bone marrow biopsy, lumbar puncture to test his spinal fluid for Leukemia, and a PICC line to replace his IV. It was all a success. Later that evening, we started to see a glimpse of our sweet Jackson again. Tuesday was a great day. We played in the playroom and Jackson dominated in air hockey. It was also our official start to chemo! Each of these past days has brought on their own challenges. We are slowly learning our new “norm”. We want to be prepared for our return home soon. Leukemia
Last night was tough. We got to the ER and immediately started with accessing his port (without numbing cream) and a peripheral blood draw from his hand, which was unsuccessful thanks to inheriting his Dad’s veins. He did great and was brave through it all! He received more platelets and a blood transfusion overnight. His blood pressure fell and his mouth sores have gotten significantly worse, likely all through his GI tract.
We have a prescription mouthwash to help numb and coat his mouth allowing him to hopefully eat something. He hasn’t eaten since Monday, so he’s receiving fluids and morphine to help with the pain. We will be here until we can eat and drink on our own… likely through the weekend. Prayers appreciated for our little trooper #jacksonstroop #jaxstrong
We are at the hospital today for IVIG Therapy. Jackson has had a runny nose for a couple weeks and just doesn’t have the antibodies to fight it off. This transfusion will give him the “good stuff” to replace what chemo has destroyed. So we are here, watching Paw Patrol and fulfilling all his requests for bacon #jaxstrong#jacksonstroop
“A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken.” Ecclesiastes 4:12
.The girls were able to join Jackson for his chemo treatment on Christmas Eve – Lumbar Puncture with anesthesia. They stood by him in the “nap room” as he was being put under and were by his side when he woke. He even asked for them as soon as he woke up, laughing and smiling! These three truly have an unbreakable bond. #jacksonstroop#jaxstrong#wombmatesforlife
Another Chemo Day! All went smooth except that Jackson’s ANC came back that he’s neutropenic (basically his immune system is very low). So we are doing the best to stay germ free and out of the hospital! His sisters were by his side today and clearly Jax loves them dearly #jaxstrong#jacksonstroop
Today was pretty rough. Jackson woke with a fever, nausea and vomiting accompanied with aches and pains. He is being treated for a virus and tested for the flu. While at the clinic he received his regularly scheduled chemo, lots of fluids and antibiotics. He is also on Tamiflu until we receive the results of the cultures. After many hours at Peyton Manning’s we were home and he was able to eat something and play with Legos! His sisters were there the whole time and did a great job taking care of him. Prayers are appreciated that he doesn’t regress and we stay out of the ER tonight! #jaxstrong#jacksonstroop
At the hospital with Jackson. He woke up screaming in pain with what we think is a very swollen lymph node. It’s causing major swelling in his neck. He had a negative strep test earlier today, so hoping to get his pain under control and figure out what’s causing the swelling. While we are here, we’ve got a whole library of movies to keep us happy and in good spirits!
The CT scan showed inflammation of his salivary gland that goes down the left side and in front of his neck. We have a whole team (hospitalists, Oncology, ENT and Infectious Diseases) working on a game plan for Jax – we know he’s in great hands! We will be here for a couple of days as he’s also severely neutropenic. He’ll also receive IVIG therapy to help get his counts back up! We appreciate your thoughts, prayers and messages. Jackson even got a special video message from his classmates!
The very last part of our Leukemia journey! Jackson is having his port removed. It’s been a long road, but Jackson has officially BEAT CANCER Prayers work and God is good!
A fit and healthy mum who thought little of her ‘strange’ symptoms has been given just 12 months to live – leaving her devastated at the thought of not being there for her daughters
The doctor immediately sent her for tests, including a colonoscopy.
When she woke up from the procedure, she was given the devastating news that doctors had found a tumour in her lower bowel.
‘They brought my husband in and told me they were 99 per cent sure it was malignant… that’s when everything changed.’
Liza Mann, from Western Australia, has incurable bowel cancer
She hopes young people realise they are more at risk of the disease than ever
You can donate to her fundraiser here
READ MORE: Busy single mum ignored symptom that led to cancer diagnosis
A fit and healthy mum who was suddenly struck with a series of ‘odd’ symptoms has been given just 12 months to live – leaving her devastated at the thought of missing her young daughters grow up.
She is one of thousands of young people being struck down with the disease, with the risk of diagnosis before the age of 40 more than doubling since the year 2000.
Liza was in the best shape of her life and going to the gym regularly when she started noticing blood in her stools and some light bloating.
At first, she brushed it off.
‘I just thought it might have been haemorrhoids or something like that – I didn’t think too much about it,’ Liza told FEMAIL.
But when the bleeding worsened over six weeks, her mum urged her to see a doctor.
‘Thank goodness I had a GP that listened to me,’ she said.
Liza was blindsided by the diagnosis.
‘I was 36. I’ve always been fit and healthy. And this is the thing – everyone seems to think that bowel cancer is an old man’s disease, but it’s not. So many young people are getting diagnosed now. It’s crazy,’ she said.
Despite undergoing surgery to remove the tumour and chemotherapy to ‘mop up’ lingering cancer cells, the disease wasn’t done with her.
‘There was no evidence of disease for 11 months,’ she recalled.
‘And then, on my birthday in 2020, they found it had spread into my lungs. And now it’s incurable.’
She was told she had metastatic bowel cancer – meaning it had spread beyond the bowel and could no longer be cured
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Liza Mann, from Kununurra in Western Australia, was diagnosed with bowel cancer when she was 36
‘It’s just terminal. Incurable,’ she said.
‘So then it was just a case of chemotherapy for the rest of my life.’
Liza said she knows all too well how easily bowel cancer can be dismissed in young people.
Just a year after her own diagnosis, a close friend – only 33 at the time – began experiencing similar symptoms.
‘She saw two doctors who just brushed her off,’ Liza recalled.
‘They told her she was too young, said it was just IBS.’
But Liza, who had already been through it herself, urged her friend to push for a colonoscopy.
‘I told her, “You need to demand it, these symptoms don’t seem right”,’ she recalled.
Liza was in the best shape of her life, going to the gym regularly, when she started noticing blood in her stool and some bloating
By the time doctors finally took her concerns seriously, the cancer had already spread to her liver.
‘It was too late,’ Liza said.
‘She only lived for about 12 months.’
Now, as she faces her own terminal diagnosis, Liza is determined to raise awareness, hoping no one else has to suffer the same fate.
For years, Liza defied the odds, undergoing treatment while still working, volunteering, and raising her two daughters, Alexis, now 11, and Sienna, 9.
She and her husband, Jarrod, a police officer, moved to Kununurra to give their girls an adventurous childhood.
‘We wanted to bring them up regionally – there are lakes, great bushwalks, camping, and fishing. It’s been a great place for them to grow up,’ she said.
But in November 2023, Liza was given the news no mother wants to hear.
Despite undergoing surgery to remove the tumour and chemotherapy to ‘mop up’ lingering cancer cells, the disease wasn’t done with her
‘They kind of gave me 12 months to live,’ she admitted.
It was a heartbreaking reality for Liza, whose biggest fear isn’t dying – it’s leaving her daughters behind.
‘How do you explain that to them? You try to be honest, but you don’t want them to stress out. They ask, “Mum, are you going to die?” and I just don’t know how to answer,’ she said.
Her biggest priority now is making memories with them.
‘My husband and I have always tried to create great memories for the girls. It’s never been about work for us – it’s been about lifestyle,’ she said.
Despite her deteriorating health, she recently took her daughters to the Philippines to see where their grandmother was from, followed by a trip to Universal Studios in Singapore.
‘We just want them to have these memories, you know?’ she said, her voice breaking.
Liza credits her resilience to her active lifestyle.
Despite her deteriorating health, she recently took her daughters to the Philippines to see where their grandmother was from, followed by a trip to Universal Studios in Singapore
‘Before I was diagnosed, I was doing CrossFit. I was at one of the fittest points in my life,’ she said.
Even after surgery, radiation, and years of chemotherapy, she stayed as active as possible.
‘My doctor told me the other week, “If it was anyone else, I don’t think they’d still be around”,’ she said.
Although she can no longer lift heavy weights, she still does Pilates, light workouts, and daily walks.
‘It’s good for your soul, good for your mental health. And I think it’s prolonged my life,’ she said.
Liza recently made the difficult decision to move back to Perth to be closer to medical care and her family.
‘I’ve been flying to Perth every three and a half weeks since 2020 for chemotherapy,’ she explained.
‘But my kids were getting over me being away all the time.’
Liza recently made the difficult decision to move back to Perth to be closer to medical care and her family
Now, as she faces the reality of her prognosis, she’s leaning on her loved ones for support.
‘My friends and family have been incredible. When I was first diagnosed, my friends did a meal train so I wouldn’t have to cook,’ she said.
‘My husband would grumble about some of the meals, and I’d say, “just be thankful, Jarrod!”.’
Her colleagues in Kununurra also became a second family.
‘When you work somewhere so remote, you become close.
‘I kind of became a mother hen to the younger ones – I’d cook them meals, make sure they weren’t just eating takeout all the time.’
Now, they’re returning the favour, stepping in to help Jarrod with school pick-ups and caring for the girls when Liza is too unwell.
But no amount of support can ease the pain of knowing she might not see her daughters grow up.
‘You put on a front for them – you have to be positive. But sometimes, it’s really hard.’
Early on-set bowel cancer is a serious problem in Australia, with the disease now the deadliest cancer for those aged 25-44.
Over the past three decades there has been a 266 per cent increase in bowel cancer incidence rates in adolescents and young adults (15-24 years) and people born in 1990 onwards have double the risk of colon cancer and quadruple the risk of rectal cancer compared to those born in 1950.
Bowel Cancer Australia regularly receives feedback from younger people diagnosed with early-onset bowel cancer who have initially had their signs and symptoms attributed to haemorrhoids, food intolerances or a result of living a hectic lifestyle.
1,708 people under the age of 50 are diagnosed with bowel cancer Down Under each year.
Of those, 50.4 per cent are women and 86 per cent experienced symptoms.
While BCA recognises that lowering the screening guidelines may be one step forward for people aged 40 and older, it doesn’t address the rising rates of early-onset bowel cancer as a whole.
As a result, It is crucial for younger people and GPs to have a high suspicion of red flag signs and symptoms and to work together to ensure prompt investigations to rule out the disease.
Liza is sharing her story to spread awareness about early-onset bowel cancer in Australia. She has raised over $15,000 for the cause.
“Farrah’s Story” chronicles Farrah Fawcett’s two and a half year battle with cancer. Shot with her own video camera, the intensely intimate and emotional footage served as Farrah’s video diary in which she not only shared her thoughts and feelings but also her treatments in the U.S. and the alternative therapies she sought in Germany.
NBC News’ “Dateline”, originally aired “Farrah’s Story” on May 15, 2009, drawing in 9 million viewers. The show went on to be rerun numerous times, including this May 23, 2009 MSNBC broadcast.
NOTE: If you or a loved one is suffering from cancer or any other terminal illness, I’d advise skipping this documentary, which depicts cancer at its ugliest, as well as a woman who lived out the final years of her life in misery because of it. Instead, I’d suggest the lesser-seen and more-uplifting “Valerie’s Story.”
“An epic exploration of possibilities. What If is a Webby Award-winning science web series that takes you on a journey through hypothetical worlds and possibilities, some in distant corners of the universe, others right here on Earth.”
Mabel Martinelli, director of the Cambridge Centre for Cognitive and Behavioral Therapy, believes meditation is the best way to reduce the severity of depression – Geoff Pugh for The Telegraph
We’re used to hearing that depression is a chemical problem, one that starts in the brain and can only be fixed with medications like SSRIs which alter the levels of “happy” hormones in your system.
But the reality is that antidepressant medications only work for three in five people with moderate to severe depression. Those who don’t see any benefit from antidepressants or other mainstream treatments, such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), are often referred to as having “treatment-resistant depression”. Many more people with mild depression would rather stay away from medications completely.
“Depression is an emotional state that makes people interpret the events in their lives in a negative way,” explains Mabel Martinelli, the director of the Cambridge Centre for Cognitive and Behavioural Therapy. “It’s only by helping someone to find some space from that feeling that they are able to get back in control of their thoughts.”
The best way to do that is through meditation, Martinelli says. You’ve likely heard before that this practice is the best tool for staying in control of your mind, yet it can be daunting or seem too “woo-woo” to really work.
But if you’re someone living with depression, stress or anxiety, it’s a technique psychologists want us to take seriously – and Martinelli, with 25 years of experience as a psychologist, has found that incorporating it into her practice has been hugely effective.
“Brain scans show that meditation alone can reduce the severity of depression,” Martinelli says. “Studies using MRI scans have demonstrated that meditation both quiets activity in the brain networks associated with depression, and that these effects last even after someone has finished meditating.”
Sessions that combine meditation with conventional therapy techniques have a name: mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT). “It was created for those with treatment-resistant depression where medications and other therapies don’t work,” Martinelli explains. “Studies show that MBCT is at least as effective as antidepressants when it comes to preventing people from being sucked back into depression.”
Why mindfulness-based cognitive therapy works
Two decades since it was developed, there is clear data to show that MBCT can treat both depression and anxiety. Studies have shown that an eight-week course of MBCT can dramatically reduce the severity of depression in people who haven’t responded to antidepressants, and can treat other people at least as well as those medications themselves.
“Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy is the most powerful intervention I use in my practice,” says Martinelli, who is a qualified psychotherapist and also uses traditional methods such as CBT.
It may also leave people happier than antidepressants. “Antidepressants aren’t meant to bring people out of depression and into a happy psychological state, but to a neutral one,” says Martinelli. “MBCT looks at how people can change their lives not just to end or avoid depression, but to be truly happy.”
What mindfulness-based cognitive therapy involves
MBCT “took elements of that older technique and combined it with cognitive therapy to see how it could treat mental illness,” says Martinelli. It’s inspired by another therapy called mindfulness-based stress reduction, which teaches meditation and acceptance to people over the course of eight weeks to help them cope with stress and anxiety.
Every session of MBCT involves 40 minutes of meditation, with participants meditating alone for 40 minutes each day between sessions. A course of MBCT also lasts for eight weeks. It is “best delivered to a group rather than one on one, but can work either way,” Martinelli says.
The therapy also draws on principles from CBT. “After four weeks we introduce those cognitive therapy elements, which involve looking at people’s thoughts, emotions and routines,” Martinelli says. “In the same way as traditional CBT, this helps people to break the cycle between their thoughts, emotions and actions.”
The best-proven benefit of MBCT is that it prevents relapse where someone has already suffered from depression and has made a partial or full recovery.
“Where someone has experienced a significant bout of depression once, the chance that they’ll experience this again is 50 percent,” Martinelli says. “After three or more episodes, that rises to 75 to 80 percent. We call this the kindling effect, where people become much more likely to go back into depression when they experience negative thoughts or emotions,” says Martinelli.
“Normal therapy sessions won’t work at that point, because you can’t think yourself out of a truly deep depression. But MBCT can still be effective, and has been shown to be more effective than antidepressants when it comes to preventing a relapse in the first place.”
I don’t like meditation. I battle depression daily, even with antidepressants. I don’t like meditation because either I get bored, or I hallucinate. I have enough trouble with random hallucinations as it is. I get tired of telling my brain to just shut up and send the dancing bananas home. Yes, animated dancing bananas with canes and straw boaters. Amusing, but only for a few bars. Mindfulness is just part of my everyday experience and training.
I couldn’t do science without it, being aware of every change and sensation as I peer through a microscope or view the contents of a test tube. I go into sort of a trance state as I do science, observing everything and incorporating what is relevant to what I’m doing. What it doesn’t do is ease my depression. It’s just something I do
I use music as a form of meditation. I find new groups (or rely on known favorites) that play complex, asymmetrical music that challenges the brain, and has so many different instruments and sounds that I have to listen multiple times trying to focus on each. Beats Antique, Shadowfax, Snarky Puppy and Polyphia are a few. Apparently, I also do mindful eating, which I didn’t realize until reading this article.
I eat slowly, sometimes focusing on the flavors and textures, but also sometimes focusing on reading or listening to music while I eat. Multitasking like this is a good way to keep the mind from engaging in negative thoughts. Hobbies can also help, like painting miniature figures. Analyzing things like investments (stocks, funds, bonds, etc) or sports statistics can also keep the mind occupied. It’s all about keeping the mind occupied with things I like.
“When someone is sceptical that meditation can help them, I encourage them to try just three minutes of sitting to see how it makes them feel,” Martinelli says. “Most people feel better even after this, and notice the difference it makes to their thoughts.”
While it’s conventional that people focus on their breath while they meditate, “it’s also possible to focus on another sensation in your body or on a sound. There are lots of guided meditation soundtracks available online that can be very helpful for this”.
2. Do a survey of your day
One of the last steps in MBCT is for people to make a list of everything they do in a day.
“The point is that people identify things that are depleting them, and that are neutral, and try to change the depleting events into neutral ones, and the neutral ones into positive ones,” says Martinelli. “The point of this is that it leaves people feeling happier, and more in control of their lives, which improves the quality of their thoughts.”
This is easily done at home. Martinelli recommends that you try making a list once a month to track how your habits are changing. “Especially at the end of the year, it’s such a lovely experiment to do – and you can also give yourself a pat on the back for how much you actually deal with in a day.”
3. Make your first bite of the day a mindful one
“There’s a well-known practice of eating a raisin as slowly and as mindfully as you can,” Martinelli says. “Mindful eating can be very powerful, but it doesn’t have to involve raisins.”
When having your first bite of breakfast or sip of coffee in the morning, “just try to be present with that experience and bring curiosity to it, about what it’s like to be in the moment”. This will help to keep you centred throughout the day and in better control of your thoughts.
4. Get grounded
“When you’re anxious, your body is pumping adrenaline and you can feel quite out of control,” Martinelli says.
The trick is to make your brain realise that it isn’t in immediate danger. “This can be as simple as just looking outside and counting the number of objects that you can see, or just feeling the sensation of your feet on the floor,” says Martinelli.
“It isn’t about telling yourself that there’s nothing to be worried about, but letting those feelings pass without judging yourself for having them.”
5. Find something that you love, and have more of it
“When you purposely do things that you enjoy and pay attention to what makes you feel happy when you do them, you’re training your brain to reach out for positive experiences,” says Martinelli. “Then you start to bring the good things to your attention, instead of just the bad.”
Doing so is as easy as “finding something that gives you pleasure, whether that’s your favourite song or a piece of chocolate,” Martinelli says. “Just really notice how pleasant it is and how good it makes you feel in your body.”
Though I totally agree with you regarding a need to get outside and be active, due to various reasons, i.e., debilitating physical/emotional trauma, etc., many cannot even leave their bed, unfortunately! In such situations, more intensive treatments are necessary. I’m also not a fan of meds, but for certain people, they’re quite effective, along with dietary health and other interventions. I consistently favor natural solutions, but for those who can’t partake in them, I’m very grateful other options exist!
7. After losing my husband, I found myself in a deep depression.
I tried medication but that made me feel worse. What finally worked was having things to do. Hobbies and ‘to do’ lists were my new best friends. Boredom creates depression. Talking about it or meditating only delays the feelings. Work them off and feel better.
8. Depression is mental, is it not?
Seems like one could look in the mirror and say….””SNAP OUT OF IT…you’ve got a job that pays a living wage and you’re healthy, so straighten up and stop whining”” wait until you can’t afford food or shelter, THEN WHINE and feel “”victimized”” !
Cognitive Dissonance is a thing…it’s real.
Understanding the above works wonders…not just for depression but for all things in life. Making the decision to ‘Not Be Depressed’ is the most helpful ‘cure’ to removing depression. Depression is a conscious decision. Ergo, MAKE the conscious Decision to ‘NOT be Depressed’
It’s the NEED to ACCEPT TO BE ABLE TO MOVE ON AND AWAY FROM THIS EMOTION OF DEPRESSION. I know, unlike millions other’s, I’ve had changes with the first impression perspective and can only think on how people take their lives for granted. Accepting certain fields of emotions is the KEY as you do move on and away, only to be in the same position for depression and to ACCEPT never changes and only those who do this will be only ones on how this works.
I start my day off with a sermon. everything else on this list is spot on. I’ve experienced situational depression, but it didn’t change when my situation changed. It took a while and a couple of different doctors. I was prescribed Duloxetine for chronic pain and depression, and Lamotrigine for mood stability. Explosive anger which usually ends in breaking something or getting’ my butt broken. Meditation, yoga, tai chi, and any other gentle workouts will really help the most. Learn conscience relaxation to experience full awareness of relaxing every part of your body starting with your toes.
Learn to use controlled breathing while you do these things. Be good to yourself and show gratitude and praise for your life, no matter how bad of a situation you’re in. The last one I went through took fifteen years. I prayed and thanked Jesus every time I thought about it. If you need a doctor, don’t settle. They say not to doctor shop.
When it comes to finding a doctor make sure he gets you and you feel comfortable, because it will speed up your recovery. When you find one, you listen to and be open and honest to your doctor. It will help you heal even more. Mental functionality isn’t always healable, but it is treatable. The trick is to learn coping skills so you can apply them whenever you need them. God Bless,
LoaAnyone with depression should look into ALL side effects from EVERY medication that they are on. I was diagnosed with depression until I went off of every medication I was prescribed (NINE!!) and found out that I was SO much healthier underneath than doctors led me to believe. Living a healthy lifestyle with nutrition, exercise, meditation, and self-care was the magic cure for me along with avoiding all man-made chemicals such as OTC meds and food additives.
Something I’m sure that doesn’t get brought up a lot and people aren’t willing to talk about: stop drinking alcohol. Our culture in America is constantly surrounded by the consumption of alcohol and the majority of television and online advertisements are for alcohol products.
Friday and Saturday nights are connected to going out to bars and having a few drinks. I received treatment for alcohol abuse and something that a counselor said that stuck with me was “cut out alcohol for 6 months and see if you still have depression.” It took me a year of sobriety to get completely off of any depression/anxiety medication I was on.
Since not everyone thinks they have a problem with alcohol, they don’t think their depression has anything to do with drinking. So my advice: try being sober for 6 months and see if your depression symptoms are still there. It’s one of those topics where if people don’t see themselves as an alcoholic they don’t think they have a problem with alcohol, so they don’t correlate their depression with alcohol consumption. Yeah, if you’re depressed, maybe don’t take a depressant (alcohol).
I’ve learned not to drink if I am sad, depressed, angry, stressed, etc. But I did get into craft beers and higher end bourbons kind of as a hobby, an exploration. It was more about trying new and unique things than getting drunk. But I also try to have 2-4 days a week where I don’t drink, once every two years I go a month without alcohol, and I am religious about not mixing drugs and alcohol on the same day. However, if someone is experiencing extreme or even moderate depression, avoiding alcohol is probably a good idea.
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NOTE: When I went through severe depression in 2005 and early part of 2006 it was like falling into black hole and when I was about to climb out of it falling deeper back into it. Caused by Lexapro. It wasn’t until my doctor finally told me after my father was gone.
Well, he’s gone now and he wouldn’t want to see you go through depression much like you didn’t want him going through cancer and I myself wouldn’t want to go through it.
So Now Is the Time to Get The F*ck Over It Sermon That Worked. Depression is a side effect of feeling sorry for yourself and focusing too much on a cantaloupe size tumor on someone’s breastbone.
So, is THIS what finding a local Lyme Literate doctor is all about?? See new patient outline/pricing below. This wouldn’t even include testing/meds and no assistance whatsoever with insurance paperwork.
***Our practice is dedicated to a natural approach that requires tracing back to the root cause. Thus, we often address polypharmacy to ensure the safety and care of each patient. Please access Dr. S’s blog for additional health information: xxx
Below will be all necessary documents for patient onboarding. We ask that you review and sign each document attentively. These documents will need to be uploaded to your chart upon scheduling.
Each patient will pay a non-refundable deposit of $195 per visit that is deducted from the visit total.
We do not accept insurance. Your insurance may cover any labs necessary for your second follow up visit and so forth, but it will not cover the fee(s) for the visit.
PLEASE READ:
As of April 2024, we are a non-profit organization. This is a private practice accepting patients as members only. If you would like to schedule with us, we ask that you please review and sign our private membership form. This PMA does NOT require any payment.
As of October 2024, our practice is now protected through The Body Healthcare Private Membership Association. This is Christian based, however, we are not imposing our religion onto patients– meaning that The Body Healthcare believes in Christianity but you do not have to in order to become a member. This protects our out of state patients, our in-state patients and our practitioners from medical tyranny that would prevent you from receiving care from our functional medicine practitioners.
In which case, we ask that you review and sign The Body Healthcare PMA so we are able to treat you as our patient. There is a $10 monthly membership fee through The Body and a member from The Body Healthcare will initiate contact to discuss payment options upon receiving your signed document (listed below).
PMA/Deposit/Cancellation/Short Intake/Medicare Opt-Out will all be included in this link, please review and sign:xxxxxx
THE BODY HEALTHCARE PMA:xxxxx
Pricing & Scheduling:
Visit costs will depend on the complexity of the patient per the provider. Each provider is well-versed under the advisory and training of Dr. S. The first visit is frequently scheduled with a nurse practitioner or physician’s assistant. If the patient has multiple significant health concerns/conditions, they would be scheduled with Dr. S.
During your initial visit, you will be discussing your lifestyle, medications/supplements, wellness habits, allergies, acute or chronic illnesses, etc. Thus, the visit may be an hour long. The initial visit (depending on the complexity of the health concern) will be either $435 or $491. If the initial visit is to be scheduled with Dr. S, it will be $1,000.
After your first appointment, your provider will tailor a lab order according to your lifestyle to source the root cause of your health concern/condition or even to benefit your wellness plan. A follow-up visit is necessary to review your labs and/or adjust the care plan your provider will have given you via FullScript. The cost of a follow-up visit will be either $435 or $491. If you are to follow up with Dr. S, it will be $543 or $648.
Upon scheduling any appointment, you will pay a $195 non-refundable deposit that is deducted from the visit total (listed above) that is due on the date of the appointment.
Uh yes this is why it’s difficult to diagnose let alone fully treat the complexities of Lyme, chronic illnesses, etc.
I was able to get diagnosed for $650, add’l labs cost me $2700. Then I was told to treat it all would cost me $600 PER VISIT 1-2x/wk., hundreds of $$ for supplements monthly, and $275×2-3 ozone treatments per week for 3-6 months to put just my Lyme into remission.
Not to mention add’l mold toxicity, MCAS, pots, EBV, etc. I have yet to be able to afford anything other than bare minimum labs, the occasional doc app & a few supplements. I will die before ever being able to be properly treated because I can’t afford it.
I can only imagine what this doctor would prescribe for nutraceuticals, herbs, RX, especially if he does his own commerce. This is exactly why I’ve been self treating (Buhner Protocol) after a positive tick panel from Vibrant 2.0. I’m just waiting for some recent bloodwork results to make sure I’m not creating any harmful issues. I had decided that if any of my blood work was way off that it might be time to see a specialist, but I highly doubt I will do that now.
In Alabama there is a Lyme literate provider that is also well versed in how Covid has complicated things as well as discovering some vein compression issues that have been a barrier for Lyme patients to hit remission. The way the pricing and appts are set up is very affordable compared to going to the various different doctors we all have to go to before getting in with a knowledge provider.
The appts are out of pocket and the first one is always the most expensive because it is an incredibly detailed appt with prep work put in before the appt as well. Then follow ups go down from there. They always give you the codes so you can file them yourself on insurance if you would like too. No expensive specialty testing is run. They try to keep all labs and testing with labs that will be covered by insurance.
Also, the only supplements recommended are one tailored specifically for you and kept at a manageable level where you do not go broke or get terrible pill fatigue. They try to keep things as economical is they possibly can. People sometimes shy away with the initial visit cost but the amount of work the provider puts in before hand then the amount of time they take in the room and then also fielding any incoming triage messages etc. takes a lot of time.
When it is breaking down amount per hour of work, they make is not much, but their goal is to get patients better because they could make ten times more working at a urgent care or hospital and not have the high stakes that comes along with being a Lyme provider. Now that being said I can only attest to the place I go and how they are set up and do things to try and keep things economical as possible MedRenew Clinic Homeopathic. Looking for successes and information. TY
Can someone help with the recommended dosage of EGCG? TY
In Buhner’s book 800mg a day.
It is not my intention to scare anyone but only advice.
I had been researching protocols for quite some time before I dove in. I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia in 1989 and a very wise doctor. a friend suggested perhaps I had chronic Lyme. I finally started an herbal protocol without being tested… What could it hurt? I started slowly for 3-4 months and then stepped up the herbals to the recommended amount.
Started severe herx and after 6 weeks of building this rash over 85% of my body, I landed at the ER. My point? Herbal protocol for Lyme is VERY similar to herbal protocol for other internal parasites…had no idea what was lurking inside me #Herxtothemax#flukecity
Michelle Migneault Micket Author Moderator Heather Sklar Sunderland · How did they treat you for mold? I’ve read activated charcoal and bentonite clay
Heather Sklar Sunderland · Michelle Migneault Micket nourished, alkalized, opened detox pathways, gently detoxed using g a regenerative nutrition protocol. When I needed binders I used Cell core binders. I also addressed parasites, viruses, bacterial load, restored my gut and addressed other toxins. Sadly you have to address all of it not just the mold. There is more to healing outside of binders
Michelle Migneault Micket Author Moderator Heather Sklar Sunderland Yes, I understand. I started with a cleanse based on Parafy Herbal Protocol – Search and thought I was doing everything you outlined until it blew up in my face. Did you follow any specific protocol or practitioner? Still researching but I plan to start back carefully with Buhner Protocol.
Heather Sklar Sunderland · Michelle Migneault Micket I am a practitioner.
Michelle Migneault Micket yes it can be so… but also I feel the difference between cat’s claw supplements… and others also. I recuse antibiotic treatment in November for 20days, when I started-
First 2days felt ok, then on 3rd day I thought that I have heart attack… then slowly continued since doctor suggested to take off natural supplements, then only after i finished antibiotics continued herbs – cat’s claw, olive extract, curcumin, Boswellia, ashwagandha… then within 2 weeks got sick, 3 days high T and after that rush on all my skin, was red for 3 days, then it went away… also was on strict diet… then approx. 3-4 month felt better went of strict diet, changed supplements brand… had high stras period and unfortunately pains came back:(., then started again with herbs, but did not feel better- now I am little stuck-
Doctors in Latvia have very different opinions why to do with me. I can not test for Bartonella, Anaplasmosis, Riketich in Latvia – doctors over and over repeat that humans do not get it just animals
Ilze Ziverte I originally started an herbal cleanse protocol very similar to Rogershood Parafy – Search (what could it hurt?) I had started to suspect Lyme and many people with Lyme have parasite co-infections. Also was taking some of the supplements (coincidently) listed in the Buhner. Had no idea I was loaded with fluke parasites or had Lyme with co-infections. I herxed badly and now realize that terrible rash might have been an allergy to Cats Claw (still testing the other things I was taking) I now realize I need to go much more slowly and carefully…I’m carrying too much of a toxic load to be aggressive.
Ilze Ziverte Some say the testing is so flawed that it’s best to just treat the clinical symptoms. I will be starting back with a protocol outlined in this book-Healing Lyme: Natural Healing of Lyme Borreliosis and the Coinfections Chlamydia and Spotted Fever Rickettsiosis, 2nd Edition Paperback – December 7, 2015 by Stephen Harrod Buhner (Author)
Ledum for tick bite. Oil on bite or homeopathic oral?
I find Ledum very effective for all new bites, Mozzie, Midgie or tick.
I use 4x 4×4 protocol.
4 drops 4 times a day for 4 days, then 3 drops 3x a day for 3 days, 2 drops, 2 x a day for 2 days, 1 drop the next day, then the same with the Ledum.
You can apply to bites that way too.
It is acute protocol for Homeopathic remedies unless it specifies differently.
If I start with Apis 5 days, I then follow up with Ledum (Ledum is antidote for Apis, so I don’t use together)
Need something topical for pain relief
I use my Rife machine on troublesome spots. I find best results with applying castor oil to my skin. if you add frankincense and myrrh essential oil (can buy the blend instead of separately) to the castor oil you’ll feel the heat absorb deep down. Very soothing along with pain relief.
Frankincense and myrrh also reduce inflammation. When I looked up the benefits again, I read these 2 complement the other. I haven’t taken frankincense orally but others that have swear by it. Place a cotton cloth over it. Then apply heat to the cloth. I use a heating pad. I use the over-the-counter Lidocaine Patches when the weather is especially rainy from Salonpas.
Magnesium cream, CBD cream, or Kanjo mentholated gel. Cryoderm. Not Bio freeze.
It has arnica and Boswellia in it and lasts for quite awhile.
Doesn’t smell great, menthol smell but works.
I use the spray and sometimes have to spray almost my entire body. Smell does fade.
Arnica Balm! This small company in NY makes some amazing stuff!
I use CBD cream, you want a minimum 1,000 mg. I always buy brands that have zero THC because I don’t like THC’s side effects. You can find these creams in health food stores. The brand I currently use is called “+PlusCBD” but there are others
DMSO Is Good For Some People – But :
Just A Caution :
Some People Cannot Tolerate Sulfur Compounds – NAC/Glutathione/Methione/Alpha Lipoic Acid/DMSO/Sulfur Based Antibiotics/Medications
High Sulfur Foods – Broccoli/Cauliflower/Brussel Sprouts/Cabbage/Maybe Kale/Garlic/Onions Etc.
Google/Search For More Information
Anyone using acupuncture for recovery? Would love some feedback, TY!
Yes! It’s what keeps me going. When I don’t have treatment at least 3 times a month, I notice a decline and feel so much better if I’m regularly receiving acupuncture treatments.
Yes, it has helped tremendously with pain, fatigue and cognition. I can’t afford to go as much as I’d like, and of course, insurance doesn’t cover the costs.
I did!!! It was the best thing I did. However, I started when I was in remission. Highly recommend it!! Another, however, found an MD who is Chinese medicine trained. Someone who has meditation music, soft lights, the whole package! I went to a pain clinic at first for acupuncture. It was a waste of time and money. But I highly recommended a real acupuncturist!!!!!
Made the plunge! Although my practitioner not knowingly has treated anyone with chronic Lyme, I sensed on our phone consultation he seemingly understood. It was comforting when he said we must start slow, so as not to trigger unwanted reactions. We started today with 30 minutes lying on my back with a needle between my eyes, one on each hand and one on each foot.
He placed a damp towel underneath my neck and my feet that had some kind of electric “wave” attached, although I didn’t feel a thing. I can’t say I feel any improvement yet, but I did come home and was able to nap without being woken by the usual back pain. I will be going back again in one week.
Looking for a recommendation for an air cleaner/purifier. TY
I have a 500 square ft gym that was built-out under my stilt house. It started getting minor black mold on the hardi board walls before the A/C was in place. It was remediated but continued to have high humidity for some time. I am very sensitive to mold and swear I smell it.
I set up an herbal infuser and running anti-fungal oils. The room has not been tested for mycotoxins and I have not personally either. I’m not getting the severe headaches/symptoms, but I need to try something as a last-ditch effort. I’ve asked people if they smell mold, and they say it just smells like the rubber flooring.
There is a concrete slab as flooring but for lack of a better term, it smells “earthy” It’s a great space with a Stotts Pilates reformer, full body Red Light panels, pro stretching table, etc. It’s instrumental to my recovery but I may not be able to use it. I’ve thought about setting off a bomb but I understand there is a residue that gets left behind that may harm the equipment?
Decided to try and get some exercise done before noon because normally my day is all downhill after that. Already had a handful of 30-minute treadmill sessions under my belt. First time I wore leggings instead of shorts, and within 20 minutes, I started having a severe histamine reaction on my feet and legs. Tried to work through it but I became INSANE with itching. I miss-stepped and fell.
Thank God, no serious injury. My guess is that I heated up more than normal, and the leggings caused friction on my skin. It was also the first time I did not take my first dose of protocol before exercise. Any insight is greatly appreciated.
April Iverson I am just starting to try and get back some mobility and it hasn’t gone very well. Just five months ago my husband and I did a seven-week backpacking trip through Italy… Over 800 miles. Halfway through the trip I crashed from a compromised immune system. Had my Vibrant 2.0 testing done the week I got back June 7. Chronic Lyme +9 additional coinfections. I’m determined to work hard to get it back before another May 2025 European cycling trip, but currently it feels pretty fruitless.
Michelle Migneault Micket it’s incredibly defeating. I used to enjoy the Spartan races, hiking and kayaking, in the gyms, and so much else I want to do. It does feel pretty fruitless. My heart goes out to you, I’ll keep you in my prayers and send all the best wishes for you to be able to achieve the European Cycling trip!
I do know some people have good results with their Lymes using hyperbaric chambers and red-light therapy. I haven’t been able to try these, but perhaps it may help your healing journey!
Pushing thought this is a bad strategy. I have seen people crash H.A.R.D…. Like might never be the same hard. And yes, many with secondary unnecessary injuries. Please listen to your body.
I don’t know if you would “push through” other very serious diagnoses, but even though mainstream doesn’t find this particularly serious, it very much is. Dr Neil Spector Lyme story – Search Videos had some great words on this.
Not to jump the gun but posting for those feeling completely hopeless. After 35 years of symptoms, a positive Vibrant 2.0 for Chronic Lyme/9 coinfections six months ago. Been “self-torturing” with extended Buhner Protocol and just 2 1/2 weeks ago I was ready to throw in the towel.
Look how things can make a turn so fast!! I can’t tell exactly why the turnaround as I have made some herbal changes over the last couple of weeks but I started acupuncture, and I believe it’s been the key. Don’t give up, relief might be just around the corner
I should add I had not got on my bike since coming home from a 7-week cycling trip in Europe clocking over 800 miles. I believe I may have caught covid after 3 weeks. I made it home and collapsed in bed for over 3 months only leaving to get my Vibrant bloodwork done.
At 4-6 months, spending about 1/2 the days still bedridden. Started acupuncture with a mini session with little results. 2nd more aggressive appt one week later I was able to start moving with less severe back/hip pain. 3 days later got on my bike on a whim and just did it! 12 miles and 2 days back in bed.
BUT back pain is better and way less fatigue so back on the bike the next 2 days! Had my 3rd appt today and walked the beach 3 miles, rested the remainder of the day. Time will tell but I feel like something is clicking. The Protocol has been hard work and a full time job.
Pamela Smart I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia about 35 years ago but somehow learned to work through the unknown. I believe I was in a latent state of chronic Lyme/fibromyalgia when I started an herbal protocol back in January in the “event” I possibly had chronic Lyme (what could hurt, right?) It was an utter disaster as I had no idea what kind of load I was carrying (this was months before actual testing). Everything must have gotten stirred up Most people don’t realize that “other” parasites go hand-in-hand with Chronic Lyme and find out the very hard way.
It finally landed me in the ER two weeks before going on the big cycling trip. Immune depressants worked well enough to ease the severe rash I had on about 90% of my body. I should’ve never gone on the trip but I felt it was a do or die situation.
I experienced a severe rebound within 3 weeks that I think was triggered by possible Covid from the cruise ship. I am still having pretty severe histamine reactions/rash but nothing like that pictured in the photo.
I believe the acupuncture treatments kick started my ability to move forward and plan on going at least once a week until the end of the year. So far my three sessions have included Frequency Specific Microcurrent as well. I’m blessed to have found a practitioner that is only charging me 125.00 for a series of 3 sessions!
Had a rough week, fibromyalgia back/hip flare no doubt from the added physical activity. Took the whole week to regroup with rest and heating pad. Histamine reactions are still there but made it through 2 short detox baths. 4th acupuncture/Frequency Specific Microcurrent and 2 days later back on the bike (18 miles)
Acupuncture worked really well for me. I haven’t had it for a while now, but I did a lot of treatments and did foot detox. I do a lot of Epsom salt, hot bath with baking soda and a little bit of peroxide. That’s a really good detox for the body. I stay on ivermectin off and on from time to time, then I get on crypto plus from doctors’ orders from my Lyme doctor that’s microbiology to fight things. My Lyme and infections started in 2004.
Wasn’t discovered till 2019 before I found out from a literate Lyme doctor to confirm the medical field that I had chronic Lyme disease. Mine was too late to heal because I already had it in my bloodstream for a long time. They said I needed a shrink. This is what we deal with you guys, love you all hang in there. There is always remission from time to time when the flare ups come back on your meds.
I try to think I’m normal and stop taking it along with so many supplements, chlorophyll CBD magnesium adrenal liver detox pills you name it. Mine has been digestive since 2008. I lost my gallbladder, never ending tendinitis flu like symptoms, headaches, body temperature changes, but you just pushed through them all and hung in there you guys there’s hope at the end of the tunnel praying.
Wanted to give a 2-month update…I continue to vastly improve using the extended Buhner Protocols.(Mostly powdered herbs/supplements) MCAS in remission, energy up, back pain considerably diminished and back to training! I’ve been VERY compliant for 8 months in spite of suffering pretty severe gastritis from protocols. Please don’t ask details of what I’m taking, it’s in the Buhner manual and one must research their own journey.
I’ve started to titrate down to dosing twice daily instead of three of the 60-70 individual herbs/supplements. I continue to be optimistically cautious but plan on titrating my current protocols (see in comments) in a attempt to find maintenance levels. Keep the faith folks. It’s been the hardest thing I’ve ever been through and a full-time job-with my only support coming from all of you out there. Thank you!
I know it took a lot of faith for you to push through some very dark days. If everyone had that faith, so many people would be getting better. I know it wasn’t easy, but yay!
Michelle I am so happy to read this. You have inspired me to do so much research and take my health into my own hands since the Medical Doctors have been useless for me other than costing me so much money. You give me hope and encouragement to keep fighting the fight. So happy for you!!!!
This is me a year ago. My testament to the value of going in low, slow, and one herb at a time. I had this rash over 90% of my body. After researching about one and a half years I decided to start an herbal protocol having no idea what type of load I was carrying. The treatment stirred everything up that I had been carrying for 35 years. I stopped all treatments and finally had Vibrant 2.0 testing done four months later.
Once I knew exactly what I was dealing with I was able to take a different approach. The hospital didn’t want to hear anything about tick borne illness or possible parasitic infection. They deemed this rash dermatitis and sent me home with steroids but I have since been told by other medical professionals that this most likely was Streptococcal A.
Extended Buhner Protocols for each infection, methylene blue, diatomaceous earth/activated charcoal , bor x, sole water, High protein, high-fiber, low sugar diet.
May I ask where you are sourcing a lot of the herbs?
Tincture or dry. How are you doing measurements etc.? That’s the complicated aspect of Buhner, and I love to see how people are managing that with diminished capacity. If that’s too, did you to answer that’s ok too… but I believe it one of the things that makes people not follow his protocol completely.
I am mostly using powdered herbs and supplements, I can find most on Amazon. The bulk of my stuff comes from Bulksupplements, Starwest, Bio Krauter, Pure Original, Horbaach, Vitamatic, and Nutracost. Only about 10% of the 60 to 70 different things I take are tinctures. I simply would not be able to afford the protocols if they were all in tincture form! (they are usually 3-4 times the cost of powdered)People will try to steer you from purchasing from Amazon for whatever reason but if you do your homework and go over the reviews I find them to be spot on (I disregard products that have unverified reviews)
A few things, mostly those for the extended protocols, I’ve had to get from Etsy or eBay. Buhner has most of the tincture dosing measurements and quite a few of the powder dosing but a “general” rule of thumb for powder dosing would be to double the amount of powder as compared to tincture. A 00-capsule filled with powder is roughly 600 mg. It took me a very long time to dissect the manual, and I made notes all along in my journal.
Believe me I know how difficult it is! For me it’s easiest to measure in 1/8, 1/4, 1/2, and full teaspoons. Buhner reiterates that his manual is simply a starting guideline and it is up to the patient to test each ingredient separately at a small amount and work up. If you do a Google search for each herb or supplement and add the words dosing + Lyme disease, you will find additional information to consider. I made a list of each infection I was suffering from, and then listed all the recommended herbs and supplements for each infection.
Many of them crossover. Get yourself going with 5-10 of the core herbs and supportive supplements for your particular infections. Many will recommend that you learn how to open your pathways so once you start killing off the infections, you can properly eliminate all the toxins that could make you feel pretty awful. Get started while you continue to research. The files that are listed in our group are very valuable. I had many months of downtime when I was at my sickest and I made it my full-time job. It took me six months to get all of my protocols in order and that is about the time I really started turning the corner. Best wishes
***another 2 month check-in…It’s been 10 months since I started self-treating with Buhner Protocols. Remission?? I think so! Started to titrate down protocol 2 months ago. Took a total break 2 weeks ago to give my gut a break and to test the waters, resuming today(Please don’t ask details of what I’m taking, it’s in the Buhner Manual and one must research their own journey) Biggest issues now-Gastritis, MCAS, and fatigue.
Results from recent labs (no Lyme antibodies tested) showed good Complement C4(12), Anemia, CBC, and Metabolic profiles BUT my Thyroid is TANKED! Started Hypothyroid treatment this week so too soon to tell if my fatigue will resolve. Call me crazy but still planning to leave for a 7-week bike-packing trip to Europe in just 45 days. I set a goal and I’m going to reach it- do or die! There is hope y’all, keep the faith! Thank you all for your continued support
I lost most of my mobility being laid up and bed-bound the first 4-5 months of treatment. I had total blocks in lower back/hips. I’ve been able to open those blocks by working on flexibility. The referred pain moved up my back to shoulders, arms and neck. It felt almost impossible trying to gain movement with the intense pain and severe fatigue. I felt stuck 5 months into herbal/supplement treatment when I tried acupuncture/Frequency Specific Micro current. It was instrumental in kick-starting my healing. I could hardly get on the table, now on maintenance once a month. Movement helps everything to open up and release. Touch your knees, reach for your toes, reach for the ceiling…No matter how little, just do it!
Michelle Migneault Micket Way to go! I too depend on a daily 22-minute stretch routine every day for almost 2 solid years. A year ago, I could not sit on my knees or get up off the floor without assistance. A good PT therapist knowledgeable with Lyme (her husband has it!) and a medical massage therapist have been my mantra. Will consider acupuncture later if this seems to persist. Nice to hear that it has been helpful to you.
(HealthDay)—Angie Gaytan never cared much for beets, but beets sure do love her—doctors say that veggie shakes, fruits, beet juice and other healthy foods likely helped the 16-year-old defeat her life-threatening leukemia.
Such a healthy diet helped more than Angie: A new study found that adopting a low-fat, low-sugar diet appeared to boost the effectiveness of chemotherapy in a group of 40 children that included Angie.
Kids who ate healthier, slightly cut their calorie intake, and burned a bit more energy through exercise wound up with a lot fewer cancer cells lingering in their bodies following their first month of chemo, compared with an earlier group of children who went through standard cancer care, said lead researcher Dr. Etan Orgel, a pediatric oncologist with the Children’s Center for Cancer and Blood Diseases at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles.
“We found that just these moderate changes in diet and increasing exercise a bit was able to make the chemotherapy more effective and reduce the chances of having leukemia left over after the first month by 70%, which is a huge shift,” Orgel said. “As you can imagine, the cancer that’s left behind is the one that’s the hardest to cure.”
In Angie’s case, cutting calories meant eating her veggies by any means necessary.
“My mom wanted me to eat healthier, so she made me these juices with kale and celery and beets,” Angie recalled. “She would make different types of things I wouldn’t eat before. Beet juice—I would never have drank that.”
It seems counterintuitive, given that most people are taught from childhood that you should feed a cold to starve a fever, but Orgel and his colleagues expected that reducing calories would make cancer cells more vulnerable to treatment.
“For decades now, we’ve known that cancers need a lot of support from the body to grow. It needs nutrition,” Orgel said. “There’s been a lot of work trying to figure out how we can use that in order to make our chemotherapy work better or affect the cancer in some ways.”
The research team recruited a small group of patients between the ages of 10 and 21, and asked them to make lifestyle changes during their first month of chemotherapy that would result in a calorie deficit of at least 20%.
The kids all suffered from B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia, a cancer affecting the white blood cells in the bone marrow. They received their chemotherapy at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles and the City of Hope National Medical Center in Duarte, Calif.
Healthier eating plan, fewer cancer cells left
“We chose this specific cancer because it’s the most common cancer in children,” Orgel explained. “It affects the most children across the country.”
Parents and kids met with a dietitian to help create an eating plan that would cut calories, decrease fat and sugar intake, and add protein, Orgel said.
They also met with a physical therapist to design an exercise regimen that would burn 10% more calories than their current level of activity. For Angie, this meant long walks with her parents, as well as some video-guided exercise programs in the living room.
By the end of the trial, about 4 in 5 of the kids met their diet goals, but only 1 in 3 stuck to their exercise program, researchers reported. The children didn’t experience any significant loss of fat tissue in their bodies.
However, their chemotherapy appeared to have been more effective. They had much lower amounts of cancer cells left in the body after treatment, which is a strong predictor of future relapse.
Angie finished treatment in June 2020, a little more than two years after her first diagnosis. She said she’s now cancer-free and her care has been cut back to monthly checkups.
A high school junior, Angie has been happy to get back to playing basketball, and she plans to study to become a nurse.
“I thought it was a good idea,” Angie said of the study. “I didn’t know what to expect. I thought it would be something completely different. I didn’t cut anything out—it was just different, the food I ate.”Eating beets is boosting Angie’s prognosis
Good nutrition gives chemo a boost
This new approach to chemotherapy provides a valuable alternative to the usual approach of adding more drugs at higher doses, said Lauren Teras, director of hematologic cancer research at the American Cancer Society’s Epidemiology Research Program.
“Rather than increase the dose of these toxic chemicals that we know are horrible for your body in all other ways except they’re very effective at killing cancer cells, let’s do something that we know is good for the body and see if we can help make it more effective,” Teras said.
Teras liked that the diet and exercise plans were individualized to each of the children and was encouraged by the outcome, but added that more study in a larger group is needed.
“Their results were very promising,” Teras said. “I would put this in the category of ‘cautiously optimistic.'”
Later this year, a larger trial will commence involving children with leukemia at more than 20 hospitals across the United States, Orgel said.
“The first trial exceeded all our expectations, so we’re very excited to be launching the next trial later this year,” Orgel said.
The hope is that this approach also could help improve chemo effectiveness in adults, and that it’s so simple that it could be adopted by any hospital, Orgel said.
“This is something that people anywhere can do without a lot of resources,” Orgel said. “You don’t have to go to a major cancer center to adopt a nutrition plan.”
When the Sixteen-year-old Angie Gaytan in 2021 was battling something no 16-year-old should have to go through: leukemia.
Leukemia is a form of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow. According to the National Cancer Institute, “[l]eukemia is cancer that starts in the tissue that forms blood. Most blood cells develop from cells in the bone marrow called stem cells. In a person with leukemia, the bone marrow makes abnormal white blood cells. The abnormal cells are leukemia cells. Unlike normal blood cells, leukemia cells don’t die when they should. They may crowd out normal white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets. This makes it hard for normal blood cells to do their work.”
Red blood cells carry oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body, white blood cells fight infection and platelets clot the blood. Simply put, If we don’t have enough red or white blood cells or platelets, it makes it very difficult for us to stay alive. Leukemia is also the most common cancer found in children and teenagers.
But Angie and her doctors have a plan that is readily accessible and proving to be effective: healthy eating and exercising.
It’s not about deprivation.
According to this Medical Xpress report that discusses Angie’s journey, eating foods such as beets, fruit shakes and other nutrient-rich plant foods is really helping. And she’s not the only one.
“Such a healthy diet helped more than Angie: A new study found that adopting a low-fat, low-sugar diet appeared to boost the effectiveness of chemotherapy in a group of 40 children that included Angie,” according to the report.
Usually, when people think of a low-fat, low-sugar diet, they think of deprivation and maybe even how they might feel hungry if they follow such a diet. When we think of “cutting calories,” we tend to think of all that we can’t have. In this particular situation, it’s really about replacing it with healthier foods.
“In Angie’s case, cutting calories meant eating her veggies by any means necessary.”
I always say that healthy food is medicine, and this is clearly a perfect example of that.
“We found that just these moderate changes in diet and increasing exercise a bit was able to make the chemotherapy more effective and reduce the chances of having leukemia left over after the first month by 70%,” said Etan Orgel, a pediatric oncologist, referenced in the Medical Xpress report mentioned earlier.
Regarding exercise for Angie, a physical therapist designed an exercise regimen with a goal to burn 10 percent more calories than her current activity level.
“For Angie, this meant long walks with her parents, as well as some video-guided exercise programs in the living room.”
Check out this pH Labs blog about a woman with leukemia who exercised during treatment and found that doing this put her immune system in a better position to fight the cancer. A doctor mentioned in this blog said that evidence has shown that lifelong exercisers have a better ability to produce new immune system cells, compared to people who are sedentary.
So whether you have cancer or not, it is clear that healthy eating and exercise may go a long way in both the prevention and management of cancer. Keep in mind that every cancer diagnosis and prognosis are different. You always want to seek the advice of your doctor regarding diet/nutrition and physical activity if you have cancer.Foods to avoid.
Processed and ultra-processed foods are inflammatory foods (they promote inflammation throughout the body), so it’s best to avoid these foods as much as possible. Inflammation is believed to be a major contributor to all types of cancer. Salami, bacon, white bread, candy, soda, chips and frozen pizza are examples of processed and ultra-processed foods. These foods are generally nutrient-void and have excessive sugar, salt and unhealthy fats.
I also highly advise taking routine nutrient tests in order to determine if you have any nutrient imbalances or deficiencies. Most of us do, and it is harder for our immune systems to work at their full potential and fight off disease if we are not nutritionally balanced. If the test reveals you are not balanced, a competent healthcare professional can work with you on making the necessary dietary changes and recommend quality supplements if necessary.
Disclaimer: This article is not intended to provide medical advice. Please consult with your doctor or another competent healthcare practitioner to get specific medical advice for your situation.
The pH professional health care team includes recognized experts from a variety of health care and related disciplines, including physicians, attorneys, nutritionists, nurses and certified fitness instructors.
This team includes the members of the pH Medical Advisory Board, which constantly monitors all pH programs, products and services. To learn more about the pH Medical Advisory Board, clickhere.
Love isn’t just a feeling that makes you swoon, write poetry, or spend late nights texting your partner. Believe it or not, being in love has tangible, science-backed health benefits that extend far beyond the emotional highs and butterflies. From reducing stress to strengthening your immune system, being in love can be a holistic boost for both mental and physical health. It might sound romantic, but studies consistently show that love and connection do wonders for the body and mind.
So how exactly does love impact our overall well-being? Well, it taps into the body’s natural responses, reduces harmful stress levels, and promotes emotional balance. Love isn’t just a fairy tale or a fleeting moment — it can be a powerful catalyst for a healthier, more fulfilling life. Whether you’re in the throes of a new romance, enjoying a long-term partnership, or surrounded by the love of family and friends, these connections enrich your life in profound ways.
Let’s explore the surprising ways love benefits our bodies, minds, and daily lives. You might just find yourself appreciating those moments of connection a little bit more.
Love Lowers Stress and Reduces Anxiety
One of the most well-documented benefits of being in love is its ability to lower stress levels. When you’re in a loving relationship, your body is flooded with feel-good hormones like oxytocin and dopamine — these natural chemicals counteract the effects of stress hormones like cortisol. In other words, being in love helps you stay calmer, even during life’s most challenging moments.
When you’re stressed, your body goes into fight-or-flight mode, which can wreak havoc on your health over time if sustained. However, the presence of a loving partner or supportive social connection can shift your body back into a state of relaxation. Physical touch, like hugging or holding hands, boosts the release of oxytocin, which helps you feel safe, secure, and at peace.
Studies show that couples who report high levels of emotional support experience lower levels of anxiety and stress. Even simply being in the presence of someone you care about can ease feelings of loneliness and overwhelm, making the world feel less daunting. Love isn’t just about emotional bonding — it’s also about creating an environment of calm and security, which allows you to face life’s demands without succumbing to constant tension.
Being in Love Improves Heart Health
Your heart isn’t just a metaphorical symbol of love — it directly benefits from having close, loving relationships. Studies have found that being in love and experiencing emotional closeness can improve heart health by lowering blood pressure, improving circulation, and reducing the risk of heart disease. This isn’t just poetic — it’s science.
When you’re in a loving relationship, the body responds with better cardiovascular stability. Love activates the body’s natural production of oxytocin, which can lower blood pressure and promote better blood flow. Emotional bonds and physical intimacy (like cuddling or holding hands) further stimulate these health benefits by keeping the cardiovascular system balanced and reducing the effects of stress.
Conversely, loneliness and lack of connection are linked to higher risks of hypertension, heart disease, and other cardiovascular problems. Being in a loving partnership, or even simply surrounded by meaningful relationships, provides a buffer against these risks. So yes, love truly is good for the heart — literally and metaphorically.
Your immune system is your body’s defense mechanism, and guess what can give it a boost? Love. Studies show that people in supportive, loving relationships tend to have stronger immune systems compared to those who are isolated or lonely. Love promotes emotional well-being, reduces stress, and directly influences the body’s ability to fight off illness.
When you’re in a loving partnership, you experience less stress and anxiety, which can otherwise suppress immune function. High levels of cortisol — triggered by stress — can make it harder for the body to fend off viruses and bacteria. But with the help of emotional connection and the physiological effects of love, your immune system stays more robust and prepared to handle external threats.
Additionally, the physical touch associated with love, such as hugging or kissing, releases immune-boosting endorphins. These moments of intimacy strengthen not only emotional bonds but also your physical defenses. So, whether you’re cuddling with your partner on the couch or sharing laughter with friends, these moments aren’t just good for the soul — they’re good for your body, too.
Love Enhances Mental Health
Mental health and emotional stability are closely tied to the experience of love. Whether it’s romantic love, familial love, or platonic connection, having supportive and meaningful relationships can act as a buffer against depression, anxiety, and emotional struggles. Being loved and loving others gives you a sense of belonging, validation, and purpose — all critical factors for emotional well-being.
When you feel secure in a loving relationship, you’re less likely to feel isolated or overwhelmed by mental health challenges. Social support — whether it comes from a romantic partner, family member, or close friend — creates a space for sharing fears, seeking advice, and building resilience. This sense of connection helps you build coping strategies and reduces feelings of loneliness or despair.
Furthermore, the joy and happiness that come with love promote the release of neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin. These chemicals are natural mood boosters that reduce feelings of sadness and elevate happiness. Essentially, when you’re in love, your brain is flooded with positive emotions that combat mental health struggles and promote a greater sense of balance and joy.
Love Promotes Healthy Habits
Being in love doesn’t just have emotional and mental health benefits — it can encourage you to adopt healthier habits. When you’re in a loving partnership or connected to a strong social network, you’re more likely to engage in positive behaviors that benefit your overall well-being. Your motivation to maintain good health is stronger when you’re thinking about the well-being of someone else or sharing healthy routines together.
Loving relationships can inspire better diet choices, increased physical activity, and improved self-care. For instance, partners often support one another in exercising, eating nutritious meals, or quitting harmful habits like smoking. Furthermore, emotional support can strengthen resolve, making it easier to stick to health-related goals.
Research shows that individuals in close relationships have higher success rates in managing chronic illnesses, quitting smoking, and maintaining consistent exercise routines. It’s no surprise that love can inspire these habits; shared goals and shared accountability bring motivation and a sense of companionship to otherwise challenging lifestyle changes.
Love Fosters Happiness and Long-Term Well-being
Perhaps the most obvious health benefit of love is its connection to happiness. Love provides emotional stability, companionship, and a sense of shared purpose — all of which contribute to a happier, more fulfilled life. And happiness isn’t just a fleeting emotion; it has long-term effects on well-being. Happier individuals report better quality of life, improved mental health, and even a greater sense of physical health.
The emotional security that comes with being in love can transform how you approach life. Knowing that you have a partner, family member, or friend by your side during both good and bad times can provide comfort and motivation. Love reinforces the idea that you’re supported, valued, and part of a greater shared experience. That sense of belonging leads to greater emotional resilience and improved quality of life over time.
Moreover, happiness triggered by love and companionship doesn’t just improve mood — it also boosts energy levels, enhances cognitive function, and promotes longevity. Studies have found that people with strong social bonds and loving relationships live longer, healthier lives. That’s right — love truly is a life-enhancing force.
Final Thoughts
Being in love is about so much more than candlelit dinners and shared laughter. Love has incredible, far-reaching effects on your mental, emotional, and physical health. It lowers stress, strengthens your immune system, enhances heart health, boosts mental well-being, and fosters positive habits. Love is transformative — not just on an emotional level but in every corner of your life.
While love may feel unpredictable or spontaneous, its health benefits are rooted in biology, psychology, and connection. Whether you’re deep into a romantic partnership, growing close with family members, or finding joy in friendships, the love you cultivate has the power to enhance your health and happiness.
The darkness cannot overshadow the illuminated room, can it? Michael Madden
Have you ever opened a door from a brightly lit room into one that’s completely dark?
The light from the room you are in pierces the darkness. It always reminds me of 1 John 1:5, where the Bible says, “God is light, and in Him there is no darkness at all”.
I have considered myself blessed my entire life. I was born into a loving family that offered my soul to God on the day I was born. Growing up, I can’t begin to imagine how many times my guardian angels have saved me from myself. And I have walked alongside many bright lights in my life, but none no brighter than my wife Shannon Knight.
There’s something I need to share—a hard truth about cancer treatments that many people don’t talk about. No matter what treatment path you choose, whether conventional or healthier options, there is no definitive cure for cancer. Every option—chemo, radiation, surgery, integrative therapies—is hope. Hope for more time. Hope for healing. Hope to see the people you love again tomorrow.
But what happens when the system denies you even that hope?
I know what it’s like to sit in silence after a long day, wondering how much more you can take. To feel the clock ticking, knowing you’re running out of time to raise the money for treatments that could save your life. If you’re reading this and you feel broken—if you’re crying right now, overwhelmed and terrified—I want you to know I understand.
When I was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer, I was given months to live. The healthier treatments that ultimately saved my life weren’t covered by insurance. They were labeled “experimental” because they didn’t fit the system’s priorities—priorities driven by patents, profits, and pharmaceutical control. So, I had no choice but to fundraise.
Fundraising for survival isn’t just about the money—it’s about what it takes from your soul. Every donation that came in felt like a small whisper of hope, a vote of confidence in my survival. But every day without donations was crushing. It felt like the world was telling me my life didn’t matter enough.
And here’s a harsh reality: sometimes even family members—those with the means to help—choose not to.
Maybe they have their reasons, but when you’re racing the clock, those reasons feel like silence in a moment when you desperately need a voice saying, “I believe in you.” It’s a heartbreak that no one should have to endure, but I’ve heard these stories over and over for over a decade.
If you’ve never been through this—never faced the terror of fighting cancer while racing time to fundraise for the treatments that might save your life—please don’t try to argue against it. This is real. This is what happens to people like us. No hypothetical, no intellectual debate can replace the raw, lived reality of this experience.
The pressure to survive consumes you. You feel like your worth is tied to the generosity of others, and the haunting questions never leave: What if I don’t raise enough? What if I run out of time? What if I lose my chance at life simply because I couldn’t afford it?
The truth is, this system isn’t built to save us—it’s built to profit off of us. Healthier, less invasive options like the ones that saved my life in 2011 are denied coverage because they can’t be patented or sold for massive profit. They’re dismissed as “unproven,” while people like us are left to fight two battles: one against cancer and another against a system that refuses to prioritize human life over money.
To those raising money right now: you are not alone. Your worth is not measured by the dollars you raise, the people who give or don’t give, or the system that has failed you. Your life is priceless.
I know how heavy this fight feels. I know the fear of fighting for your life while also worrying about how to care for your children or keep food on the table. But I also know this: You are extraordinary. Not because of what you’re battling, but because of the courage and strength you show every day, even when you feel like you have nothing left.
We need to demand better—a system that values people over profits, healing over bureaucracy, and life over greed. Until that day comes, I will continue to speak out, to fight for change, and to remind you that you are not defined by this broken system.
To everyone racing against time to fundraise for treatments: You matter. Your life matters. Keep fighting. You are worth every effort and so much more.
This system must change. Healthier options have shown the same success as conventional treatments, and it is not fair to be denied access to these life-saving therapies by health insurance. Every person deserves the chance to choose hope without fighting for survival in every sense of the word.
A Prayer for You
Heavenly Father,
I lift up every person reading this who feels broken, overwhelmed, and afraid. You know their struggles and their pain, Lord, and I ask You to bring them comfort and peace in this moment. Give them the strength to keep fighting, the hope to hold on, and the reassurance that their life is precious and valued in Your eyes. Surround them with people who will lift them up, provide for their needs, and remind them they are not alone. Please open doors that seem impossible to open and make a way where there seems to be none. In Your name, I pray. Amen.
Covid was a test of compliance. Wanting to jab the world was a massive red flag to me…plus there’s absolutely no way they could have made such a large volume of the heart dart in such a short period of time. I knew it was coming and called a(Gen)da 21… I warned others and saw Fauci being used again, just like the aids plandemic.
How corrupt the world is and has been for years but the Scamdemic definitely woke me up while recovering from life threatening meningitis, spending 6 months disabled I went down the rabbit hole which I had very little time to research before my illness.I didn’t yield and threatened our NHS with solicitors as the harassment was another level being classed as “vulnerable” I lived to watch this nightmare begin and have had a friends die since they “trusted the science” That we cannot trust any of the governing bodies on ANY issue relating to life /health! They lie lie lie for power / money & do not give a damn how many suffer & Die to achieve their evil Agenda 2021 >> depopulate ! I WAS a nurse but will never trust medics again . Marjorie HodgkinsFollowing rules for payment I learnt that I’m NOT one of those human sheep that does what I’m told, I had no vaccines and I never wore a mask……. our lives carried on we didn’t comply with any of it. It’s nuts how many people just allowed themselves and the children to be herded like cattle with absolutely no reason they just believed everything they were told… what a wild time to be alive hey!
That the truth always comes out. Humanity wins from live not evil. Don’t trust the government or science. Use your intuition; listen to the gut feelings but not your heart, the latter organ will get you into serious trouble. But the ‘Mesentery’ and Biome will not. it’s there for a reason.
Always followed my gut instincts, my intuition, God given.
I listened to what they said, but I also watched what they did, it didn’t seem logical or normal.
So, here we are today. We saw who was willing to betray their own to get ahead, tow the line to live. Remember those types of people in a shit hit fan situation, whether friends or fam, get away from them as fast as you can. That our politicians serve their master’s i.e. WEF, UN, WHO IMF et al, and their interests, and are treacherous P.O.S.’S to WE THE PEOPLE, WHOM THEY ARE SUPPOSED TO SERVE!!!
That we got played right into the hands of evil demonic, not going to use the word humans, because humans are not supposed to hurt others!
That we cannot trust any of the governing bodies on ANY issue relating to life /health! They lie lie lie for power / money & do not give a damn how many suffer & Die to achieve their evil Agenda >> depopulate ! I WAS a nurse but will never trust medics again.
Following rules for payment We learned that our government is corrupt and governed and paid for by others. They do not care if I live or die, and I’ll trust my own common sense in future like I did then. No Jibby Jabbie’s and no mask wearing for me. Friends that had them are always ill but still won’t admit or acknowledge they have been poisoned.
That our government are part of WEF globalists instead of being National. Became dictators, caused divide. Flooded us with migrants…which taxpayers are funding… was all pre planned and Dr David Martin explains this well. Shocked that so many followed directions. Still shocked that the jabs are still being given in some form or other.
Never to trust the government or medical profession, all bought and paid for…Globalist puppets. They are selected for purpose as they come up through the ranks, spotted as early as infants’ school…. Brigg Myers tests separate the Psychopathic from the Sociopathic. That communists are as powerful as I suspected.
That most western governments are corrupt and fully on board with betraying their citizens to the point of murdering them. And that those same citizens are far more brainwashed than I appreciated, I did expect resistance to grow but instead they stayed at home and obeyed the madness like the sheep they are. A Five-Year Biography of a Fool By Author Unknown
It became clear that half the population have the IQ of a teabag… If you’re not a Covid “conspiracy theorist” by this point, then you’re an absolute dunce…I’ll elaborate…. if you still refuse to see it for the scam it was, then it means:
You somehow believe gov & pharma actually care about you & your health over their profits and business model of lies, blind trust & perpetual sickness… You believe they wanted to go out of their way to “protect” you & “save” everyone’s granny..
Against their lab made flu – with its whooping mortality age of 82…By giving you “free” experimental jabs to inject, multiple times, which they knew didn’t stop transmission despite the “do it for granny” campaign and mandates which were null & void in the absence of even testing for transmission prevention…”Free” experimental jabs with no long term data but which you were told and still believe are “safe”… despite the fact you know are linked to myocarditis, strokes, blood clots, autoimmune diseases & cancers…You somehow believe all the “experts” you “followed” just “accidentally” got everything wrong – from the origins, to severity, death counts, social distancing, lockdowns, masks, marginalizing the elderly, suppressing known tested treatments, and floor arrow stickers etc…. all coincidently in unison together. .You believe all the “experts” after getting the aforementioned wrong then proceeded to “accidentally” just “miss” such side effects as myocarditis, blood clots, strokes & auto immune diseases … again and coincidently all in unison together…
You still believe it was a “pandemic” despite the admissions of how they just made up all “the science” and lied about the origins, death rate and every aspect of the “pandemic”…You still believe it was a “pandemic” despite the same people who were telling you to be scared getting caught having “wine time Fridays” as usual, engaging in extra martial affairs, and hosting drug fueled orgies in NYC etc…. cos they knew there was nothing to fear – but they told you to sit at home with a mask on and clap like a demented sea lion for nurses dancing around empty hospitals…and after all those lies they told you – you still actually believe gov censorship of known true information from medical experts was somehow “for your safety”…
You then believe those who lied to you, made up science, produced the glorified flu and supplied the jabs just coincidentally also benefitted from the biggest transfer of wealth & power in history….
You believe it’s just coincidence that big pharma are going to fulfil their business model and keep profiting from the jab side effects for another generation – even though you know they’ve been caught lying about known side effects (like cancers) in their products many times before…
You completely ignore how in 2020 you (authorities & gullible people) wanted to virtue signal wherever possible and take whatever ridiculous precaution imaginable to get patted on the back – from decimating the economy, disrupting children’s education, marginalizing the elderly & sick as hospitals lay empty, turning on your family & Neighbour, accepting censorship & vaccine mandates, following floor arrow stickers around a shop like a fluking peanut thinking it was “science”, wearing masks & blindly trusting gov & pharma with you & you families health….to the point you volunteered to take “free” experimental jabs, multiple times – and all this was to save every stranger & their granny….. from a flu….. with average mortality age of 82…
But today – for a reason you don’t even know – you get triggered when it’s pointed out young people are dying from heart attacks & blood clots etc in record numbers, commencing immediately after the rollout…. but unlike happily attributing every death to Covid based on a 28-day window, now you want to pretend like it’s not happening.
You’re doing your best to convince yourself 11-year-olds having heart attacks or athletes dropping on the field every week is “normal”, and definitely nothing to do with the recent jabs which are linked to myocarditis, blood clots, strokes, autoimmune diseases & a myriad of other issues.
You’ll go as far as risking giving your own children heart issues, blood clots or autoimmune diseases for their whole life by still pushing an experimental jab on them, that doesn’t work against a virus…. which doesn’t even affect children… and you do this simply cos the same people who already lied to you & profited from doing so said it’s “safe” – even after it was revealed they knew about the plethora of side effects pre rollout but let you find out about after the fact It’s polar opposite behavior…. where’s the gov intervention & virtue signaling from you for young people today that you exhibited for the elderly in 2020, before they were marginalized to die alone in care homes?
Do you reckon the gov & media are just too busy these days trying to keep us safe from climate change or Putin? Or is it because the media aren’t telling you exactly what to care about and exactly how to care about it before calling you a hero?
Why are you not displaying the same level of anger & hate you spewed at “anti vaxxers” (on the basis they’ll potentially put your health at risk by not taking jabs which don’t stop transmission) towards those who actually did put your health at risk by knowingly poisoning you & your family with the same jabs linked to an uncountable number of deaths?
You haven’t even as much as asked for an apology from them…Instead you’re actually spending your time now still defending those who already lied to, potentially poisoned you and made record gains in wealth & power for it…. how do you even justify that? How are you going to justify it to future generations?
How do you justify all the rest too while ironically still calling others “conspiracy theorists”?It’s one thing getting played like a fiddle in 2020 by the 3 most untrustworthy entities on the planet who thrive on lies and are likely to try to fool you – but to actually still be defending them in 2025 is unbridled stupidity and/or cognitive dissonance… So ultimately, you’re either having trouble accepting you were fooled and trying to salvage what’s left of your ego – or are just extremely gullible, naive & dense…. regardless either way, like I said, you’re an absolute fcukin dunce
That the Covid scam was just a means to an end, and despite the horrendous damage it did to people’s health and the world economy, it is not the biggest problem we have. That’s coming. People need to learn what these huge AI data centers are all about, currently under construction in the US and UK. This is the human control grid, necessary to run all digital systems. Digital IDS, facial recognition, biometrics, social credit scoring, central bank digital currencies, carbon allowances etc.
All of it! Government is promoting the benefits of Ai, but saying nothing about the downsides. As Mike Yeadon warned a few years ago, “we can cope with most things, but we cannot cope with the control grid.” I concur. There will be no escape from this beast system when it becomes operational. We need to focus on the danger that’s coming, rather than what happened in the past.
I learned that I had discernment, and the world was being conned. I just couldn’t quite understand why until I got reading and listening. I discovered Janet Ossebaard and her set of fantastic documentaries. I took the red pill instead of the blue and have been learning and listening ever since. I’ve also been able to exchange views and opinions with like-minded people on groups such as this one. During the height of “go and get vaccinated” I was able to find lots of people that knew it was a cu11ing process and opted out just like I did!! Knowing I had a like minded tribe out there was such a relief.
The true understanding of Cognitive Dissonance… Never had my soul shaken until now , the realisation that the world has felt the true force of evil via a death jab the psychopath was perfect. I learned that it was just a prelude for bigger evil plans against humanity by some power hungry and greedy globalist elites. Everything is orchestrated, from fear mongering to d£populate using and control tru beast system.
I knew it was bullshit when I saw Chinese people lying in the street, then the Italian bullshit showing hundreds of body bags. It was all like a B movie ffs. Then I found out midazolam and morphine were the protocols in hospitals. NHS staff are culpable I don’t care what anyone says, it was given out like candy and still halfwits are rolling their sleeves up. There is more of a worry now more deadly than covid and that’s the traitorous LABOUR PARTY
BigNige MooringI leant from week 2 to 16 I could sh#t through a needle ( stopped milk and dairy at 15 weeks and all stopped. It makes you lactose intolerant and explains the toilet roll rush) I also found out having a temperature of 104f 40c for 7 days straight killed MRSA in my leg that flared up every 3 months and has never come back. The hospital is very amused about that. Never had a jab as beat it naturally as haven’t had a cold ever since so bit of a mixed bag really
That the entire Germ-Hypothesis paradigm is a many times over falsified and erroneous idea, dating back to the dark ages, which is only kept alive as it is the literal backbone of the Disease-for-Profit industry, the biggest business on Planet Earth, which has financial tentacle-strings into every aspect of modern society, effectively make the entire social-economic system serve its interests (profit/power).The entire paradigm rests upon this fictional concept of “contagion”, which is nothing more than a very popular and widely believed in myth.
Disease is self built through errors of living, flagrant violations of the natural laws and order that govern the internal life of our vessels.And a whole lot more, but these are the highlights…
Oh my gosh, the entire human population went bezerk on planet earth, The fear, the panic, the worry, I was the only one who was not in panic or fear, and refused any va$$ cines… no matter what kind of mandates were enforced….and most of my family mother and siblings and my relatives – cousins- nieces- nephews- and the little innocent babies were forced – their work – job- etc… elderly were wrongfully forced….. All along I was hinting that the BIG COV- was a distraction to depopulate the planet-chiming in the Corrupt Artificial Intelligence higher electromagnetic frequencies H.A.A.R.P. and its – 5-G- 6-G -etc. ..Graphene oxide laced vaccines harm the brain…. Kills new blood cells in our body, destroys the immune system, weakens the heart muscle…. Hence why 5-G was forced on us….
the (2) evils at destroying our human genome.. DNA….the function of our brain turning to rot and mush…
Yeah……my gut warned me to not pay attention nor comply nor accept under any circumstance….a few listened, a few laughed and mocked me …..They’re not laughing anymore….
Patty Corrigan Myers The gov and Fauci murdered millions and were greedy. My husband was just one of 1.2 million at the least who were killed and others profited off their deaths. Sick. Evil!I decided to make a documentary so that the truth can be told of what happened in those hospitals. What I saw and what I witnessed was evil. On ice, water and food are hard to come by in a hospital that’s inhumane.
When I was an oncology nurse, a 44-year-old patient named Madeline forever changed my perception of death. She had gallbladder cancer and one day broke her hip.
This sent her to the hospital, accompanied by her sister. Within a couple of days, a blood clot from Madeline’s hip traveled to her lung, decreasing the blood circulation throughout her body. When she thanked her doctor for all that had been done for her, it was clear Madeline knew something the doctors didn’t even know yet: she wasn’t going to pull through this.
One evening after waking up from a nap, she said: ‘Get my sister! I’m transitioning!’
She said it with such excitement, as though she were arriving in a foreign country for the first time, ready for a new and thrilling adventure. Hers was truly what I’ve come to call a ‘good death.’ She was not only unafraid but even enthusiastic about experiencing it.
Can you imagine?
She could see and feel something that most of us can’t and watching her go through it transformed how I thought about death. Certainly not everyone has an experience like Madeline’s at the end, and I was miserable in mainstream hospital nursing, where we weren’t given nearly enough time with patients.
So, even though it made little practical sense, I listened to my heart and went into hospice nursing. Once I did, I saw clear patterns among countless patients that eased my mind about dying and even changed the way I have come to live my life.
Regardless of someone’s cultural background or religious beliefs, there are four common things that dying people say toward the end:
There is no death. I’m going home.
Whether or not they speak to loved ones who are already dead or have believed in this during the course of their life, they seem to have the knowledge that they’re returning somewhere familiar that no longer requires a body.
Everything happens for a reason.
I have listened to so many dying patients tell me they suddenly understand why they had some of their most painful experiences.
They have an epiphany about the lessons they learned and why those experiences were necessary and valuable to help them grow and change.
It’s a kind of ‘life review’ and a sudden flood of wisdom that might have eluded them throughout most of their life. It brings them tremendous comfort, as they no longer feel that they were punished or that their pain was random.
There is no judgment.
They frequently realize that their mistakes in life were the result of their humanity, and they feel newfound forgiveness – for themselves and for others.
People close to death seem to have the knowledge that they’re returning somewhere familiar that no longer requires a body
Even those who had been bigoted or harbored grudges often suddenly conclude that we’re all in this together. They say that there’s no reckoning or punishment after death. Instead, everything they did was in the name of learning, and all that remains is love.
We are all connected to one unconditionally loving energy.
Even those who had been bigoted or harbored grudges often suddenly conclude that we’re all in this together – people of all stripes, religions, and countries. They feel a deep connection with not just all human beings, but all types of beings from animals to trees to molecules.
It’s a profound spiritual experience that sometimes comes as a surprise to their loved ones, and it eases the transition immensely from life into death.
In addition to these four things people say at the end of life, there are other phenomena that are incredibly common among the dying.
They get a burst of energy.
We often call this an ‘end of life rally.’ Even if someone has been asleep for weeks, unable to speak or move, they often awaken for a brief period with unusual vigor, both physically and mentally, to say goodbye and express their love, only to die soon after.
They control the date and time they die.
I have seen more people than I can remember wait for something specific before they let go. They might wait for a particular date, such as their own birthday, an anniversary, or the arrival of a grandchild.
I know a woman, for example, who was on her death bed for ten days until she finally died just four hours after midnight on her 100th birthday
The dying often waits until someone special can visit them so they can say goodbye, or they wait for permission to go because they’re worried about leaving their loved ones behind.
In this case, it can be helpful for them to hear a gentle ‘I love you and will miss you, but it’s OK for you to go. I don’t want you to suffer anymore.’
Sometimes, they wait until a loved one leaves the room.
This can be painful for those left behind, but hospice nurses know this phenomenon so well that we prepare family and friends for the possibility. It could be that as their final act of love, the dying want to spare us the pain of witnessing their last breath.
This happens even when the dying person is in a sleeping coma. Somehow, they still know when we leave the room.
They talk about visits from the dead – even while they’re awake, not just when they’re asleep.
Research has found that as many as 72 percent of the dying talk about seeing and speaking to their loved ones who have already died.
Some people dismiss these experiences as hallucinatory, but maybe it’s just as easy to think they’re actually connecting with the dead. Many family members and friends find this comforting and take it as confirmation that we only change form when we die.
Whether or not you choose to believe the dying are communicating with the ‘other side,’ the best thing to do is to validate their experience.
I knew a dying woman named Helen who said her late husband was coming that weekend to take her to a dance, and she needed something to wear.
The Good Death: A Guide for Supporting Your Loved One through the End of Life by Suzanne B. O’Brien is published by Little, Brown Spark, March 18
Her niece found a beautiful dress in the closet, along with red patent leather shoes, that she placed in the bedroom where Helen could see them every day. Helen died that weekend in a state of profound peace.
After watching and listening to so many dying patients, I began to live my own life as though each day is a life in and of itself. It might be the last day I get, so I strive to be fully present and make the most of it, appreciating all the small, beautiful moments that come my way.
I look for how I can be of highest service to others, even if it’s as simple as smiling at a stranger or holding a door open for someone.
I listen to my inner guidance, just as I did when I switched from medical floor nursing to hospice nursing and found my true calling … and just as I did when I left hospice nursing to start the Doulagivers Institute, which allows me to train both professionals and family caregivers to better understand and handle the end of life.
I strive not to judge myself or others and, just like the dying, to see life as a series of lessons that help us become better versions of ourselves. I see the connection between all of life’s beings and look for the sacred everywhere.
I also focus on gratitude every day, but perhaps what I’m most grateful for are the many patients who showed me that there’s actually beauty in dying. They showed me that our life and death are a seamless, sacred trajectory that we all share.
In decades past, as the effects of climate change slowly became undeniable, some looked to the super-rich — the billionaires with enough cash to really make a splash.
By the early 2020s, billionaires had positioned themselves as the masters of climate change policy, taking advantage of their great fortunes to become indispensable to environmentalism.
Now, however, many of those same billionaires are pulling support at an alarming rate. And Bill Gates — Microsoft founder, sixth richest man in the world, and alleged sex pest — is the latest among them.
New reporting by Heatmap is signaling the end of a “major chapter in climate giving,” as Breakthrough Energy — Gates’ climate change nonprofit — has locked the doors on its policy and advocacy office, laying off dozens of employees throughout Europe and the US.
Breakthrough’s lobbying was central to advancing climate policy through legislation championed by the Biden administration, including the Inflation Reduction Act, the CHIPS Act, and the bipartisan Infrastructure Law.
Though the billionaire’s for-profit green energy investments at companies like Arnergy and Mission Zero Technologies remain in place, Breakthrough’s belt-tightening will very likely end the nonprofit’s grant writing efforts. That’s a major blow to climate nonprofits, and further evidence that, for all their feel-good bluster, the mega-rich never forget their bottom line.
Ever since billionaire real estate mogul Donald Trump won his second presidential election, tech barons like Mark Zuckerberg, Jeff Bezos, Sundar Pichai, and of course Elon Musk have made no bones about shedding their progressive skin and embracing the new administration.
Luckily there is one player in this game who is totally above corruption: Mother Nature herself. Gates and all the other billionaires might take notice when they realize that they, in fact, do not grow the food that is put on their tables. The real “woke” has yet to come and it won’t be led by progressives or any political party.
As I’ve said before, climate changes, always have, always will. The earth gets cooler, the earth gets warmer, always has, always will. That’s been proven. Man has nothing to do with it. It’s all about money and power. Only God will destroy the earth. I don’t know how He’ll do it, but it won’t be flooded again.
The Earth gets hotter, as the Sun gets brighter, this is proven fact. Without any help from man, we know this is happening, and sometime in the future the Earth will be too hot to support life. This is simple science; it’s how stars work. Then one day it will become a red giant and possibly extend out to where you sit right now. God has nothing to do with it. Buddha teaches us that you can look everywhere in our Universe, and you can find nothing that is permanent.
Being a Billionaire is not success; it is a symptom of pathological greed. No one should control that much money, and anyone with that much money should be paying taxes on every penny of it. We need tax brackets that force the wealthy to reinvest in business, creating more jobs to earn tax breaks the way it used to work. Money is like manure, it does absolutely no good unless you spread it around.
“Being a Billionaire is not success; it is a symptom of pathological greed”…. says the broke man. Respectfully disagree. Most of those who end up being billionaires simply built companies that were successful. When they are public companies, and the public believes they create valuable products, then people buy stock which rises in price and the owner benefits.
Bill Gates became a billionaire because Microsoft became the operating system that computer hardware companies used, it had value. As far as Gates, we can argue if he’s pathological or not. He’s certainly driven as most very successful people are. He’s also declared that he’s giving virtually all of his vast wealth away and to date he’s given away 100 billion dollars or so.
I’m not rich, but the facts are:
Most of the government’s federal income tax revenue comes from the nation’s top income earners. In 2021, the top 5% of earners — people with incomes $252,840 and above — collectively paid over $1.4 trillion in income taxes, or about 66% of the national total. If you include the top 10% — everyone who made at least $169,800 — that figure rises to $1.7 trillion, or 76% of the total.
The top 50% of earners contributed 97.7% of federal income tax revenue.
Whether the rich and wealthy pay their “fair share” is a subjective question but government data shows that they do pay the most in volume.
For tax year 2021, the most recent available data, the top 1% of earners paid nearly 46% of taxes, according to an analysis by the National Taxpayers Union, a nonprofit that favors lower taxes and a simpler code.The top 5% pay more than 65% of federal income taxes, the highest 10% pay 75% of them and the top 25% are accountable for 89%.The bottom half of earners, who make below $46,627 a year, paid just 2% of federal personal income tax, according to the report. They’re Marxists reciting Marxists philosophy. If you know anything about Marx, he was a very worthless man who never worked and depended on his friend Engles to support him and his family. The income tax is 1 of his 10 planks in his communist manifesto, along with government control of education so they can produce more little communists.It would be foolish to “give up on climate change” since we are going to run out of sequestered oil and gas anyway. There is no other option than to switch over to something else, like hydrogen or some bio fuel like ethanol. Solar and wind are great, but they need batteries, so something like nuclear needs to be expanded instead.Luckily there is one player in this game who is totally above corruption: Mother Nature herself.
Gates and all the other billionaires might take notice when they realize that they, in fact, do not grow the food that is put on their tables. The real “woke” has yet to come and it won’t be led by progressives or any political party. Maybe for now… he’s a fake/fraud, virtue signaling leftist of the democrat/communist party… he loved COVID and the amount of people it killed. He is very clear on reducing world population and controlling us as peasants making us do whatever it is that he wants.
Even if they “got on board” it’s still pointless. The energy demands of the modern world are just too great. Nibbling around the edges with solar and wind farms (which are CO2 intensive to build and operate btw) will do nothing. We’re burning all the oil and all the coal.
Might as well. I’ve been involved in enough research to realize two things. The damage done is pretty much at the point of no return now, and the next is that Darwin was right if the species is too lazy, entitled and ignorant to survive, well, that’s pretty much it…Do you think it has anything to do with the unwinding of all this “dark mystery money”? It appears that a lot of these donors may have washed their donation through an NGO and seen their initial 1-billion-dollar donation turn into 3 with government input.
This is an example of what Gates considers contributing to saving the earth.
He started a company called Graphyte that takes the farming waste from the fields and burns it into carbon then compresses it into blocks that are then sold to airlines like American Airlines by the ton so the airlines can make their reduced carbon print on the earth. Gates’s company actually creates carbon to bury and gets credit for saving the earth. What a joke and most people do not know this.
Solar panels were about 18% efficient. Windmills are about 40% efficient. Natural gas is somewhere around 60% efficient. Nuclear around 35% efficient. A lot to choose from. We should use all of the above. Anyone with even a tiny bit of common sense would give up on climate change. Until China, India, Russia, and a whole lot others get on board, it is all pointless.
Now that the government subsidies on green initiatives are drying up under Trump. Gates, true to his hypocritical belief in climate change, sees he can’t make the money off of the taxpayers subsidies and is giving up. The man was never into it for saving the earth just in it for the money. He always has been.
Yep, he lost his government subsidies, cheap loans, and grants. Check to see if the USAID was giving them money. He still has interest in the MIT fusion reactor and the fission reactor in Wyoming. Don’t worry too much about him, he will be fine. LOLA guy who likes young women at work or outside work is not a sex pest, he’s a guy… Just like women who like slightly older rich guys are not sex pests, they are women… Grow up and live in your world. Hell, half the world doesn’t even have ages of consent.
That’s an American Protestant thing that spread around a bit. Furthermore, the billionaires don’t have to spend their money on anything if they don’t want to. And yes, they are all corrupt and all play games that dont make sense, cuz normal people don’t live on their level.
AND YES, they care about their bottom line. SO WOULD YOU if you were them. They don’t owe you or anyone else anything. They made the right moves with luck and chance in their favor, and now they got billions… that’s the way of it. Die poor, die rich, it won’t matter in 150 years to you or them or anyone else. So put your big boy pants on and go live your own life and stop trying to “expose” the truth about businessmen, it’s not actually all that important.
They realistically have ZERO power over anything. They just stand in the room like cars in a garage. Bill Gates Gives up on the Climate Change Scam – that’s the correct headline. All these billionaires were just making money after Al Gore dreamed up “Climate Change” and the stoopid believed every word and followed their orders. Maybe people are now waking up to the scam????”It all goes to show: billionaires were never going to save the world from climate catastrophe — they just needed us to believe they could.” Yeah. We never believed they could. It was always about money and control.
It’s too late for any kind of change to make a difference, that window has come and gone many years ago. it was too late to save the earth, it was doomed from the start of the 1900s. Want to stop the earth from dying, go back in time and stop the industrial age.
Was he ever really in the game to begin with? These guys will fly on whatever prevailing wind is blowing and right now it’s a conservative blw hard. Trump’s election shows that the average American is tired of climate change, dei, political correctness, and why not it’s being shoved down our throats at every turn. Gates and the gang want to make money and that means being seen as reliving whatever the current sentiment is. That modern capitalism.
Bill Gates is a scumbag with close ties to Epstein ….. his wife left him because she knew he was a scumbag, and he only got into the “green energy” fad to make money. he doesn’t care about the world, or the people in it, he wants to cull the human herd and control as much of the world as possible. Green energy wasn’t going to be as profitable or demanded anymore as Trump won the election, allowing choices in the energy sector, so he is shuttering his green operations. it’s that simple…. it’s all about the dollar.
Effects of climate change undeniable? Huh? This planet changes, period. Climate change has little effect on the outcome of our planet. Get real! Maybe he has realized that climate change is happening, and it has always been happening, Conclusion – there is nothing that can be done to control it, so time to stop wasting money. The only purpose for the climate change hysteria was to bilk us all of our money and to hand control of our lives over to overseers.
Related video: What If the Universe Is Conscious? (What If) – Search
) and a peripheral blood draw from his hand, which was unsuccessful thanks to inheriting his Dad’s veins. He did great and was brave through it all! He received more platelets and a blood transfusion overnight. His blood pressure fell and his mouth sores have gotten significantly worse, likely all through his GI tract. 
Prayers work and God is good!
feeling hopeless in 
Check it out: 
Most people don’t realize that “other” parasites go hand-in-hand with Chronic Lyme and find out the very hard way. 
praying. 
they just believed everything they were told… what a wild time to be alive hey!
You believe they wanted to go out of their way to “protect” you & “save” everyone’s granny..
.You believe all the “experts” after getting the aforementioned wrong then proceeded to “accidentally” just “miss” such side effects as myocarditis, blood clots, strokes & auto immune diseases … again and coincidently all in unison together…
It’s polar opposite behavior…. where’s the gov intervention & virtue signaling from you for young people today that you exhibited for the elderly in 2020, before they were marginalized to die alone in care homes? 
via a death jab 
