Finding Cures for Cancer and the Ailing Papers

billie stockIt is hard not to be excited by two stories in technology coming out of Philadelphia. An Immune System Trained to Cure Cancer reported in the New York Times this weekend is having many patients beyond hope waking up to future possibilities. After the violence of the city this weekend and the natural disasters plaguing our region in the past three weeks, the idea that the city may be the place that the cure for cancer originates is welcomed news.

The most fascinating aspect of the article is the role HIV virus plays as the carrier to help destroy the cancer cells. We often talk about the good that can come from tragedy or evil things. Here is the most deadly and hated disease from the late 20^th century giving new hope for cancer cures. Though the trial was only done for three patients, the success is lauded and supports that treatments of deadly diseases will not come from expensive pills but from enhancing our own immune system.

We can consider the possibilities of AIDS virus bringing about a cure for cancer just as we can conceive that Philadelphia is a place of senseless violence and world-class treatment to cure disease.  

gurdonarkThe other feel good story is Philly Media Network offering Tablet Computers with subscription to their paper apps. This is what the free internet and news stealers have been dreading. The idea that the publishing industry is moving towards pay is one that is long overdue and courageous. Though I will continue to pilfer my information from free sites, I think the product they provide is well within the boundaries of 13 dollars a month for a cost.

You can be one of the 5000 who get these tablets for $99 or up with the price of a subscription. As more and more sites become for pay, the new hand holding technology will bring writers back into the pay market. Instead of eliminating an on-line presence, the new tablets can provide enhanced stories and interviews to entice readers and buyers.   There is a market for good writing and readers. It is the job of the publishing industry to recapture this group and grow their audience, especially if we believe that literacy and journalism are two key component of democracy.

So Philadelphia is leading the country this week with its innovative news marketing and a hope for curing cancer. There may have been much sadness lately, but hope is closer than you may think.