Called to the threshold, a death doula learns from the dying

** President Biden's recent prostate cancer diagnosis might sound alarming, but a urologist explains that it's one of the more treatable cancers—especially with today's medical advancements. The article breaks down why Biden’s prognosis is likely positive, highlighting how far research has come in managing this common disease.

What This Mean: ** Prostate cancer affects countless men, and high-profile cases like Biden’s put a spotlight on the progress being made. This isn’t just about politics—it’s a reminder that many cancers are no longer the death sentences they once were, which could reassure anyone facing a similar diagnosis.

The U.S. government has bankrolled some of the most game-changing scientific discoveries—from life-saving vaccines to the internet itself—but now those research budgets are shrinking. This article looks back at nine breakthroughs, like GPS and cancer treatments, that wouldn’t exist without federal funding. It’s a reminder of what’s at stake as those dollars dry up.

What This Mean: Science isn’t just lab coats and petri dishes—it’s the foundation of modern life. This piece hits home why cutting research funding isn’t just about budgets; it’s about losing the next big innovations before they even get started. A little sobering, but worth the read.

** Turns out, your late-night tossing and turning might have more to do with your afternoon snack than your pillow. Sleep experts say certain foods and habits—like cutting off caffeine early or opting for magnesium-rich nuts—can seriously upgrade your sleep quality. They’ve even got a handy list of foods that nudge your brain toward better rest.

What This Mean: ** Most of us know caffeine before bed is a bad idea, but this digs deeper—linking everyday choices (like when you eat dinner or that extra glass of wine) to sleep quality. With so many people struggling with insomnia or fatigue, small tweaks here could make a big difference in energy and health. It’s practical advice that doesn’t require a total lifestyle overhaul.

** Dr. Roshini Raj from NYU Langone Health highlights some exciting advancements in women’s health this Women’s Health Month. She discusses the first-ever at-home cervical cancer screening tool—a game-changer for early detection—plus a potential new weight-loss pill in development. She also touches on the surprising link between gut health and sleep quality, suggesting our microbiome might hold more clues to wellness than we thought.

What This Mean: ** These developments aren’t just incremental—they’re transformative. At-home cancer screening could save lives by removing barriers to testing, while new weight-loss options (if safe and effective) could address a major health concern for many. The gut-sleep connection? That’s a reminder of how much we’re still learning about the body. For women, who often juggle caregiving and careers, these innovations could mean easier access to preventative care and better health outcomes.

Fitness expert Dane Robinson shows how you can squeeze in a quick, effective workout at home with nothing but a chair—no fancy equipment needed. He breaks down simple moves like seated reclines and lateral lunges that anyone can do, even in small spaces or tight schedules.

What This Mean: With busy lives and limited space, many people struggle to stay active. This story matters because it offers a practical, no-excuses approach to fitness—proving you don’t need a gym or expensive gear to get moving. It’s a small but empowering solution for healthier habits.