The Remarkable Mushroom Hero - Turkey Tail

Paul Stamets is a mycologist, author, and advocate for the medicinal use of mushrooms. His mother, Beverly Stamets, was diagnosed with stage IV breast cancer in 2009. As part of her treatment, she underwent surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. However, her condition continued to deteriorate, and she was given only months to live.

Paul has spoken extensively about his mother's experience with turkey tail mushrooms and the role they played in her recovery from cancer. In a TED talk, he shared the story and emphasized the importance of mushrooms in human health and ecology:

"My mother was diagnosed with stage IV breast cancer.. ..and she was given less than three months to live."

Paul, who had been researching the medicinal properties of mushrooms for decades, suggested that his mother try turkey tail mushrooms (Trametes versicolor), which are known for their immune-boosting properties. Beverly agreed to try the mushrooms and began taking a daily dose of turkey tail extract.

Years later, Beverly had long since gone into remission and had remained cancer free. 

Paul has also written about his mother's experience in his book "Mycelium Running: How Mushrooms Can Help Save the World." In the book, he explains how the active compounds in turkey tail mushrooms can boost the immune system and help fight cancer:

"Her remarkable remission, along with many others like it, provide the impetus for clinical research on Trametes versicolor as a cancer therapy."

Paul's mother, Beverly Stamets, has also spoken publicly about her experience with turkey tail mushrooms. In an interview with the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, she described how she took the mushrooms and the impact they had on her health:

"I drank turkey tail tea. And within three months my cancer was gone. It was very quick. And that was without chemo, without radiation. The tumor just kept getting smaller and smaller and eventually it disappeared."

The story of Beverly Stamets' recovery has been featured in numerous media outlets, including the New York Times, CNN, and NBC News. The story has inspired many people to explore the potential of mushrooms for health and wellness.

In addition to his work promoting the medicinal properties of mushrooms, Paul Stamets has also been a vocal advocate for the ecological benefits of fungi. He has given talks and written extensively about the role of mycelium in soil health, carbon sequestration, and environmental remediation. His work has inspired many people, including us here at Vesper,  to see fungi as a key player in creating a sustainable future for the planet.