THE UNSEEN WARD: A TALE OF ACCIDENTAL ALCHEMY

Agnes Thistlewick wasn't a witch. At least, that's what she kept telling herself. Potions simmered on her stove more out of habit than intention, and her muttering under her breath was usually directed at the rogue tomato that dared to roll off the counter. Yet, something strange surrounded Agnes, a shield she hadn't built and a power she didn't understand.

Lord Blackwood, the local baron, was no stranger to cruelty. He'd squeezed rents from his tenants until their pockets bled dry, evicted families on a whim, and poisoned the well of dissent with fear. But when he set his sights on Agnes' cozy cottage, a curious thing happened. Every attempt to evict her backfired spectacularly. A rainstorm flooded the eviction notice, a runaway cart flattened the bailiff's summons, and a swarm of bees chased the tax collector from Agnes' doorstep.

Meanwhile, Agnes herself seemed impervious. Each thwarted attempt left Lord Blackwood spluttering with rage, his face growing a shade paler each time. The villagers, initially skeptical, started whispering. Agnes, they said, possessed a "hedge witch's blessing," a subconscious ward woven from her unwavering spirit.

Across the rolling hills, a similar story unfolded. Mayor Grimshaw, notorious for shady land deals and silencing dissent, found himself thwarted at every turn. Petitions against his latest scheme spontaneously combusted in his office, his accusations against outspoken citizens dissolved into incoherent mumbles, and the ground inexplicably swallowed his prized attack dog whole.

The villagers, Amelia in particular, who had faced Grimshaw's wrath firsthand, started noticing a change in themselves. With every failed attempt, they felt a surge of defiance, a newfound resilience. It was as if the mayor's malice, deflected by some unseen force, somehow enriched their determination.

One blustery evening, a group of villagers huddled around Agnes' crackling hearth. The topic, as always, was the escalating oddity. Agnes, flustered by the attention, confessed her lack of magical prowess.

"It's just... I can't stand bullies," she mumbled, stirring her chamomile tea. "And when I think about them, bad things seem to happen."

A wizened old farmer named Thomas chuckled. "Maybe, lass, that's all it takes. A strong enough will, a heart full of righteousness, can weave magic without even knowing it."

The idea resonated. Perhaps Agnes wasn't a witch, but her unwavering spirit, her refusal to be cowed, had created an unintended field of protection – a force field of sheer righteousness. As negativity bounced off them, the villagers, too, were somehow strengthened.

News of the "unseen ward" spread. People started believing in themselves, their voices gaining strength. Lord Blackwood and Mayor Grimshaw, on the other hand, grew increasingly haggard. Their attempts at oppression became self-defeating spectacles, their power draining away like a deflating balloon.

In the end, it wasn't spells or potions that brought them down. It was the weight of their own malice, the villagers' unwavering resistance, and a collective belief that good, even in its most mundane form, can be a powerful weapon. Agnes Thistlewick, the accidental witch, had shown them all that the truest magic lay in the unyielding human spirit.  Copyright short story, By J H Ltd, © 21 March 2024. All rights reserved. (Reproduced by kind permission)

King Charles has been diagnosed with cancer, and an enlarged prostate gland, for which he is receiving treatment. With cancer now 80% higher in under 50s in the last three decades, what does that tell us about planet earth and pollution levels?

This isn’t the first time a member of the Royal Family has had cancer. Charles’ grandfather, King George VI, was diagnosed with lung cancer, and the British public wasn’t told about it. His death came as a surprise to the world.

THE GUARDIAN 5 SEPTEMBER 2023 - CANCER CASES IN UNDER 50s WORLDWIDE UP NEARLY 80% IN THREE DECADES, STUDY FINDS

More than a million under-50s a year dying of cancer and figure projected to rise by another 21% by 2030.

The number of under-50s worldwide being diagnosed with cancer has risen by nearly 80% in three decades, according to the largest study of its kind.

Global cases of early onset cancer increased from 1.82 million in 1990 to 3.26 million in 2019, while cancer deaths of adults in their 40s, 30s or younger grew by 27%. More than a million under-50s a year are now dying of cancer, the research reveals.

Experts are still in the early stages of understanding the reasons behind the rise in cases. The authors of the study, published in BMJ Oncology, say poor diets, alcohol and tobacco use, physical inactivity and obesity are likely to be among the factors.

“Since 1990, the incidence and deaths of early onset cancers have substantially increased globally,” the report says. “Encouraging a healthy lifestyle, including a healthy diet, the restriction of tobacco and alcohol consumption and appropriate outdoor activity, could reduce the burden of early onset cancer.”

Previous studies have suggested that the incidence of cancer in adults under the age of 50 has been rising in various parts of the world over the last few decades. The latest study, led by the University of Edinburgh in Scotland and Zhejiang University School of Medicine in Hangzhou, China, was the first of its kind to examine the issue on a global scale and the risk factors for younger adults.

Most of the previous studies focused on regional and national differences. In this global study, researchers analysed data from 204 countries covering 29 types of cancer.

They looked at new cases, deaths, health consequences and contributory risk factors for all those aged 14 to 49 to estimate changes between 1990 and 2019.

In 2019, new cancer diagnoses among under-50s totalled 3.26 million, an increase of 79% on the 1990 figure. Breast cancer accounted for the largest number of cases and associated deaths, at 13.7 and 3.5 for every 100,000 of the global population respectively.

Cases of early onset windpipe and prostate cancers rose the fastest between 1990 and 2019, with estimated annual percentage changes of 2.28% and 2.23% respectively. At the other end of the spectrum, cases of early onset liver cancer fell by an estimated 2.88% a year.

A total of 1.06 million under-50s died of cancer in 2019, an increase of 27% on the 1990 figure. After breast cancer, the highest death tolls were linked to windpipe, lung, stomach and bowel cancers. The steepest increases in deaths were among people with kidney or ovarian cancer.

The highest rates of early onset cancers in 2019 were in North America, Oceania and western Europe. Low- and middle-income countries were also affected, and the highest death rates among under-50s were in Oceania, eastern Europe and central Asia.

In low- and middle-income countries, early onset cancer had a much greater impact on women than on men, in terms of poor health and deaths.

Based on the observed trends for the past three decades, the researchers estimate that the global number of new early onset cancer cases and associated deaths will rise by a further 31% and 21% respectively by 2030, with people in their 40s the most at risk.

Genetic factors are likely to have a role, the researchers said. But diets high in red meat and salt and low in fruit and milk, along with alcohol and tobacco use, are the main risk factors underlying the most common cancers among under-50s, with physical inactivity, excess weight and high blood sugar contributory factors, the data indicates.

Dr Claire Knight, a senior health information manager at Cancer Research UK, which was not involved in the study, said it was not yet clear what was driving the trend and urged caution.

“However alarming this might seem, cancer is primarily a disease of older age, with the majority of new cancer cases worldwide being diagnosed in those aged 50 and above,” she said. “We need more research to examine the causes of early onset cancer for specific cancer types, like our BCAN-RAY study that is looking at new ways to identify younger women at higher risk of breast cancer.

“If people are concerned about their cancer risk, there are lots of ways to help reduce this such as not smoking, maintaining a balanced diet, getting plenty of exercise and staying safe in the sun.”

It's understandable that the planning situation in the United Kingdom, is unsettling, with Sussex police being allegedly implicated in covering up crimes by Wealden District Council. Especially with the number of people involved either developing cancer or passing suddenly with heart failure and other game over conditions. Mostly those within quite a tight radius but extending to those more distant, in receipt of communications direct, like the unfortunate James Brokenshire, tasked to cleanse National Planning Framework, though much dismayed at the slipperiness of local sheriffs, who simply carried on as before, knowing that without legal force, suggestions as to fair play and morals is worthless where land value manipulation is up for grabs. Enhanced pensions as bribes and the like. Poor James. A shining knight doomed to fail, naivety blinding his quill to the cold hard facts; money talks!

While there's no evidence for a direct cause-and-effect link between negative thoughts/actions and cancer, there are some factors to consider:

Confirmation Bias: We tend to focus on information that confirms our existing beliefs. In this case, the coincidence of local residents getting cancer or sudden heart failures could lead you to overlook other possible explanations. It may just be an amazing set of coincidences.

Statistical Fluctuation: In small populations, random chance can sometimes lead to clusters of seemingly related events. Without knowing the overall cancer or heart failure rates in the area, it's difficult to say if this is more than just a noteworthy coincidence.

Stress and Cancer: Chronic stress can weaken the immune system, potentially making people more susceptible to various illnesses (including, but not limited to, cancer and heart failure). However, the link between stress, cancer and heart failure is complex and not fully understood.

Correlation doesn't equal causation. While the events described are striking, it's likely a combination of factors, including environmental pollution and possibly chance, that may be contributing to the observed cancers and rash of local heart failures.

In summary, while there isn’t a direct link between a “cancerous society” and physical cancer or numerous hearth failure, societal factors and individual choices collectively influence cancer risk and heart disease. Understanding these complexities allows us to develop effective prevention strategies and promote overall well-being. Remember that each person’s experience with cancer is unique, hearth attacks more sudden, and a holistic approach is necessary to address such global health challenges.

SILVER SCREEN BEAT 21 JANUARY 2022

Nobody enjoys liquor like a British monarch. He is an example of this. His mother, however, is a perfect example. Charles, who recently had to restrict her alcohol intake in order to monitor her health, has enjoyed a few glasses of wine, beer, or harder spirits. Let’s look at all the best photos of the heir to the British throne wetting his whistle. 

Although it is difficult to work as a British royal family member, there are some great perks. Although family members have been subject to increased scrutiny as one of the most watched families worldwide, there are still some highlights. 

Traveling to various celebrations and imbibing in that location’s most famous alcoholic beverage is certainly a benefit. As the heir to the throne, Prince Charles takes full advantage of that, and we’ve got photos dating back nearly a decade to prove it.

Toast from My Royal Family to Yours

Prince Charles and Queen Sonja, both of Norway, share a toast at an official dinner that was held at Oslo’s Royal Palace in Norway in March 2012. Charles looks dashing in his black tux, and we’re happy to report that he hasn’t aged much over the last decade. Perhaps it’s because he enjoys a good glass of wine with good company.

Easy Sippin’ With The Heir To The Throne

You caught us, this isn’t an alcoholic drink, but how often do you get to see the heir to a monarchy sipping on a straw? Charles enjoys an Acai palm-berry smoothie on his London home turf. Our favorite thing about this image is the slightly worried looks of those in the background.

The Prince Of Wines

Prince Charles and Camilla Parker Bowles visited New Zealand and Australia on a 12-day tour in 2015. They made a stop in Nelson, New Zealand at the Mahana Winery. Charles’ face looks like our face when we’re offered a free glass of vino. “You’re telling me this is free?”

A Heady Bouquet

Are we able to be open with one another? This is what we see in our minds when we take a sip of wine. Unlike Charles, we have no clue what we’re smelling, but we want to look like we know what we’re doing. This photo was also taken during Charles and Parker Bowles’ 2015 tour to New Zealand.

Enjoy a Satisfying Sips

You know it’s a good beer when you have to take an up close look at the glass after your first sip. Back in his native England, Charles still had a bit of foam stuck to his lip after taking a sip of the pint of ale he’d just poured himself. He was visiting the Wadworth Brewery in March 2017, a business that is family owned and works closely with Charles’ Hub initiative.

The Joys Of Muddling One’s Own Mint

Prince Charles and Camilla Parker Bowles share a laugh while they mix mint and make mojitos on an official visit to Havana in March 2019. It was the first official visit of a member from the royal family to Cuba. The two seemed to be enjoying their time together. Based on the absolute delight on Charles’ face, this is also the first time he’s ever muddled his own mint and he’s completely chuffed over it.

This is The Cheeky Peak.

Prince Charles looks like a school boy who’s been caught with both hands full of cake in this photo taken in 2019 at the St. Austell Brewery. Charles always seems to go to a winery or brewery, no matter where he is. To be fair, we’d totally do the same thing. Just going to pop over to the brewery, dear, it’s a matter of royal business.

A firm, steady grip on the situation

Prince Charles holds onto his beer stein while visiting Glonn, southern Germany in May 2019. He and wife Parker Bowles were visiting an organic farm, but it’s Germany so they kept a pint ready for the visiting royalty.

So You’ve Found My Hideout, Mr. Bond

We can’t be the only one that hears the 007 theme song as we look at this photo of Prince Charles drinking a glass of during a visit to Tokyo, Japan in October 2019. Of course, in reality, Charles would likely be on the side of James Bond, but in our imagination, he’s just caught the famed MI6 agent in a trap and is about to start a monologue about how clever he is.

Pandemic Problems

The 2020 photo season saw a prolonged break due to obvious reasons. Like many others around the world, the coronavirus pandemic prevented the British royal family from participating in public events. The royal family was able, in 2021, to return out of public events using measures such as social distancing and masks, but they also suffered from common problems. Is there a way to gracefully remove a mask from your face so you can sip your beer? No, not for royalty.

Highly Anticipated Dram

Though COVID-19 restrictions limited much of the royal family’s travels in 2021, Prince Charles was able to get up to Scotland in July to officially open the Lerwick Harbour and Scalloway Fish Markets. Charles had a traditional dram whiskey before getting down to business. Nobody better get between him and that glass when he’s using that expression.

www.silverscreenbeat.com/prince-charles-is-a-big-fan-of-his-booze-and-weve-got-the-pictures-to-prove-it/

ENTERTAINMENT TIMES 19 DECEMBER 2022 - PRINCE CHARLES, CAMILLA HAVE A DRINKING PROBLEM, COULD BE THROWN INTO REHAB BY THE QUEEN

Prince Charles and Camilla Parker Bowles have been accused of having a drinking problem.

In its Dec. 28 issue, Globe claimed that Prince Charles and Camilla have reached a new low because they’re drinking alcohol for breakfast.

Before launching his gin brand, Prince Charles used to drink alcohol after his morning meals.

However, a source told the tabloid that he now drinks glasses of alcohol together with his breakfast.

And it seems he got the bad habit from the Duchess of Cornwall.

The insider also said that Prince Charles has been laughing off suggestions that he has a drinking problem.

And in his defense, he has been saying that he needs to drink regularly to taste the gin that he’s selling to the public.

However, the tabloid alleged that Prince Charles is lying about his drinking problem because he has bloodshot eyes.

“One or two sips and his troubles melt away – and he’s ready to face the day,” the source said.

Meanwhile, the source also claimed that Queen Elizabeth couldn’t help but feel concerned about her son’s drinking habits.

As such, the monarch is thinking about throwing Prince Charles and Camilla into a rehab facility if they don’t control their drinking.

Last week, National Enquirer also concocted a dubious claim about Prince Charles and alcohol.

The tabloid claimed that Prince Charles and the queen are competing against each other when it comes to the best-tasting gin.

And since Prince Charles doesn’t want to get defeated, he’s bribing Prince William to choose his gin selection over his grandmother’s.

A source told the tabloid that Prince William loves to suck up to the queen, so it’s possible that he would choose her mix over Prince Charles.

However, there is no competition between the queen and Prince Charles over booze because their products taste different.

Prince Charles’ organic gin is from Highgrove, and it is flavored with the herbs from his garden.

While speaking with Daily Mail, master distiller Cory Mason said that Prince Charles’ gin is traditional, elegant, and refined but with complex herbal notes of a traditional English garden.

The queen’s gin, on the other hand, is sourced from the botanical gardens of Buckingham Palace.

Her Majesty’s gin features lemon, verbena, hawthorn berries, and mulberry leaves.

Both products are only available for shipping in the United Kingdom. And the queen’s gin has been sold out since it first launched weeks ago.

By Camille Heimbrod

https://www.entertaintimes.com prince-charles-camilla-drinking-problem-thrown-rehab-queen

Prince Charles  hereditary title  Queen Elizabeth II

Crimes committed by a nation against it's own citizens are dealt with by the International Criminal Court, as per the Rome Statute. This is where the State concerned refuses to accept they are acting illegally. Nobody is above the law, including royalty by birth.

NOW IS THE TIME FOR CHANGE - Under the present system where the Head of State is a royal, and there is no written constitution, politicians like David Cameron and Boris Johnson can lie with impunity - even to Queen Elizabeth - and not face penalties. Police officers can shoot unarmed civilians and not be sent to prison, and planning officers can deceive the Secretaries of State and High Court judges, and not be prosecuted. In effect, it is alleged that there is little justice in England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. We aver that such machinations are costing the ordinary taxpayer, Treasury and the Crown (being the state) significant sums of money, while adding to the UK's carbon footprint. Hence, the country is not being run effectively by the at present; defective administration, not to serve its citizens, but to sustain and profit itself. Unlike the US Constitution of 1791 that exists to serve the people. The UK is held to be the most corrupt country in the world concerning the laundering of drug money. Something, the present Constitutional Monarchy has done little to tackle. Whereas, the building of houses for overseas investors has increased, with very few genuinely affordable houses available - so forcing renting, and increasing council taxes to pay housing benefits for those tenants. Corruption in the planning system is also a major concern - with no statute of limitation on historic vendettas and institutional discrimination.

REFERENCE

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7877262/
https://www.nature.com/articles/nrc3080
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3262453/
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/cancer
https://thelighthousecentre.org/the-stages-of-cancer/
https://nutrilicious.co.uk/the-links-between-diet-nutrition-physical-activity-and-cancer/
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-2919716/Is-cancer-really-just-bad-luck-Staying-fit-healthy-best-way-stave-disease-doctor-argues.html
https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo/human-body-with-cancer-cells-spreading-and-growing.html
http://www.beatson.scot.nhs.uk/content/default.asp?page=s18_1
https://oraclecancertrust.org/what-is-head-and-neck-cancer/what-is-head-and-neck-cancer-copy
https://www.cancer.org/
https://www.who.int/health-topics/cancer

https://www.theguardian.com/society/2023/sep/05/cancer-cases-in-under-50s-worldwide-up-nearly-80-in-three-decades-study-finds

https://www.theguardian.com/society/2023/sep/05/cancer-cases-in-under-50s-worldwide-up-nearly-80-in-three-decades-study-finds

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7877262/
https://www.nature.com/articles/nrc3080
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3262453/
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/cancer
https://thelighthousecentre.org/the-stages-of-cancer/
https://nutrilicious.co.uk/the-links-between-diet-nutrition-physical-activity-and-cancer/
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-2919716/Is-cancer-really-just-bad-luck-Staying-fit-healthy-best-way-stave-disease-doctor-argues.html
https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo/human-body-with-cancer-cells-spreading-and-growing.html
http://www.beatson.scot.nhs.uk/content/default.asp?page=s18_1
https://oraclecancertrust.org/what-is-head-and-neck-cancer/what-is-head-and-neck-cancer-copy
https://www.cancer.org/
https://www.who.int/health-topics/cancer

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