Arizona Illustrated

Rescuing Cacti: The Tucson Cactus and Succulent Society has one mission-- to save and protect cacti and other succulents. Since its founding in 1999, the society has saved over 120,000 plants. We meet society members as they work with landowners to remove the cacti from a large family-owned property turned subdivision and replant the succulents at the Waterman Restoration Site. Miracle Medicine: Dr. Ski Chilton has dedicated his life to helping people around the world overcome health challenges to live more fulfilled and joyful lives, but he says his latest discovery is the most important thing he’s ever done. Chilton and his team at the University of Arizona believe they have discovered an enzyme that is at the very heart of COVID-19 mortality. His lab is now leading an international effort to develop an inhibitor to this enzyme that might drastically reduce the risk of severe disease. He hopes it could serve as a miracle medicine in places with low vaccination rates, such as Africa. Digging for the Root [2019 Encore Story]: Modern medicine has made many life-saving and life-extending advancements, but for a growing number of people, it isn’t enough. Millions worldwide are instead embracing a more natural and organic approach to health remedies, therapies, and cures, including plant medicines that are centuries old. Carla Vargas-Frank has witnessed this paradigm shift firsthand in her herbalism practice, and she reflects on why so many people— and in particular, so many marginalized people—are turning to the earth in search of healing. https://tv.azpm.org/p/season6/2019/10/14/160035-digging-for-the-root/ An Arizona Sunset from Gates Pass: Arizona sunsets are so iconic that they inspired the design on the state flag. One of the most popular spots to catch one in Southern Arizona is Gates Pass. Hundreds of locals and tourists flock there every evening. It becomes the stage for a unique blend of human interactions and you never know what you ll find or who you’ll meet. The scenic overlook is a short drive from downtown Tucson and the University of Arizona, but the steep mountains, saguaro stands and dramatic views feel like another world