Three share-worthy items have crossed my desk recently. One is a useful, practical educational resource for families dealing with autism. Another is an alternative—very alternative—cancer-healing program. Coincidentally, these unrelated entities are similarly named.
Finally, the third item is way off subject: Interested in some bargain basement spa treatments? Read on for the details.
Rethink autism
Finding effective and affordable treatment for children with autism can be a frustrating and painful journey. And these days, it seems to me, more families than ever are coping with this challenging condition.
Rethink Autism, a new company based in New York City, uses technology in a new way to deliver accessible, effective and affordable ($100 a month) treatment that parents, caregivers and schools can use anywhere, anytime. All you need is a computer with Internet access.
At Rethinkautism.com, you can find programs reviewed and edited by two leading autism experts, business development director Jamie Pagliaro, formerly of the NYC Charter School of Autism, and researcher, educator, and practitioner Bridget Taylor, PhD, co-founder of the Alpine Learning Group in Paramus, N.J. Both advocate the applied behavioral analysis (ABA) therapy, which is the only scientifically validated treatment for children with autism.
In addition to the subscription content, which offers educational videos, a curriculum, assessment, a tracking system, and support, Rethink Autism has free content, including webinars—the next two are scheduled for October 21 and 26.
Rethinking cancer
Personally, I think we wear blinders when it comes to treating chronic diseases, especially cancer. Too often, we see disease as targets, drugs as bullets, and our bodies as shooting galleries. I fervently wish more people could work with enlightened doctors who evaluate your lifestyle and recommend therapeutic adjustments and natural therapies, in addition to prescribing drug and surgical treatments.
That’s what integrative medicine, pioneered by the venerable Andrew Weil, MD, is all about, and I pray that one day, it becomes ubiquitous.
Healers I admire say that treating cancer, for example, should start with your diet. That eating toxin-free foods (read: organic, unprocessed whole foods, lots of fruits and veggies, and limited red meat, similar to the Mediterranean diet) is a treatment essential.
Science concurs: Last June, a study in the British Medical Journal reported the results of an eight-year evaluation of 23,349 people living in Greece, roughly half of whom followed a Mediterranean diet. The Mediterranean diet half had mortality rates about 35% lower than folks who ate fewer fruits, veggies, beans, and nuts; less olive oil; and more red meat.
A new documentary film called Rethinking Cancer profiles four people diagnosed with cancer and one person with a severe case of Lyme disease. These people overcame their illnesses by using a radical, “bio-repair” approach combining diet, herbal therapies, and other non-toxic treatments. It’s intriguing enough to warrant your attention, especially if you or someone you love has a serious, chronic illness.
Next week is Spa Week!
Relax and de-stress at your favorite spa for just $50. From October 12 through 18, spas in cities across the country will offer luxurious treatments at a fraction of their regular cost. I’ve already talked about how healthy massages and stress relief can be for you, and what kind of blogger would I be if I didn’t practice what I preached? Find a participating spa at SpaWeek.com.
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