After three years of monthly shots, quarterly cat-scans and blood tests that were eventually reduced to semi-annual blood tests, I have heard that magic word -- remission.
My oncologist announced at our April 11, 2014 meeting that my cancer is in remission. Although my monthly shots will continue for the rest of my life, I'll only have to see my doctor annually with no more regularly scheduled cat scans. The semi-annual blood test is to monitor my blood chemistry to make sure my cancer is still in remission.
Other than those changes, I keep doing what I've been doing. Which is eating NO processed foods. Eating mainly fresh, alive foods, get plenty of exercise, and maintain my positive attitude.
I still maintain that cancer hates exercise so I'll continue doing what I can. Mainly that of working out here on the ranch. I've gotten back into building my gardens. First I'll weed my vegetable garden, then finish building the aisles. That way we'll have those fresh, alive foods to eat.
Then I'll get back into building my pollinator garden. The more pollinating plants the bees have, the more honey we'll have. I"m adding a third hive tomorrow. The queen is in the basement awaiting her freshly painted hive. As soon as it's dry then I'll split hive B. It's bursting at the seams.
Hive A has a new nuc in is and seems to be doing well.
I'll keep you posted on our bee activities through one of my other blogs farmhousemusings.com
In the meantime, if my experiences have helped you in any way, please continue to eat well. Eat as though food is your best medicine.
Wednesday, April 30, 2014
Thursday, March 21, 2013
Surgery Sucks Anyway You Look At It
Editors Note: This article was originally published on the Nubian Dairy Goat site on May 2011 shortly following my March 2011 cancer surgery. It has been removed from that site and published here.
The drugs help but ... they can't make up for clean cotton sheets, country fresh air, pet chicken fresh eggs. soft curious nuzzles from beloved pets and a loving family watching every move I make: they are the wind beneath my wings.
While only one person may go through the surgery, the entire family feels the pain.
I was struck by the hospital room's odors: vinyl upholstery, plastic mattress cover, plastic cups, and of course the ever present IV drip.Whatever that liquid transportation system dispensed into my system, it transferred needed medications without the need of 'sticking' me any more than possible. But it also tethered me to an extension cord that was six inches too short to comfortably maneuver in the room and making going the a bathroom a marathon event. Often requiring a team.
My senses were overwhelmed. The odor of the medications, the IV altering my taste buds, my numbed bottom from being able to lay in only one position. Fortunately, I could relax my eyes by glazing outside across at the rooftop gravel and tar studded vents; to glimpse the tree on the horizon. Thank you dear Lord for that tree. In my medicated state, that rooftop turned into a zen rock garden and the heloport wind dopplere became the crest of arms protecting me. It's what you make it.
The drugs help but ... they can't make up for clean cotton sheets, country fresh air, pet chicken fresh eggs. soft curious nuzzles from beloved pets and a loving family watching every move I make: they are the wind beneath my wings.
While only one person may go through the surgery, the entire family feels the pain.
I was struck by the hospital room's odors: vinyl upholstery, plastic mattress cover, plastic cups, and of course the ever present IV drip.Whatever that liquid transportation system dispensed into my system, it transferred needed medications without the need of 'sticking' me any more than possible. But it also tethered me to an extension cord that was six inches too short to comfortably maneuver in the room and making going the a bathroom a marathon event. Often requiring a team.
My senses were overwhelmed. The odor of the medications, the IV altering my taste buds, my numbed bottom from being able to lay in only one position. Fortunately, I could relax my eyes by glazing outside across at the rooftop gravel and tar studded vents; to glimpse the tree on the horizon. Thank you dear Lord for that tree. In my medicated state, that rooftop turned into a zen rock garden and the heloport wind dopplere became the crest of arms protecting me. It's what you make it.
LiveSTRONG at the YMCA -- Reflection Question
Our most recent reflection question was "Where is your favorite place?"
We all thought for a moment then started the round of answers. Most of us said the beach, any beach; one said a local lake, while another was more specific and said a lake in Vermont. I found it interesting that their favorite places were centered around water, lots of water. Group-wide their favorite places was almost unanimous, the beach. Well, almost ... . Then it was my turn.
My answer, on the other hand, was, is, and will always be my home. My husband and I have lived here for more than twelve years and have molded it to fit our needs, wants, and dreams. It's where all the things I love live. Why would I want to go somewhere else to fulfill my dreams? They're right here.
Someone in the group asked if there was a special place on the ranch. That group moves kind of fast so I couldn't take too long to think about it. I thought for the whole minute they gave me then said that if there was such a place, then it would have to be our barn, mainly because it's where our horses and baby goats live, even though it's the place that requires the most work (aka mucking, if know what I mean but we moved out here to get physical exercise).
We moved to the county in 2000 so we could have two horses and live happily ever after. In 2009 we got our first horse (finally) then in 2011 we got the second one. So far ... so good but we have much to learn. Learning is most of the fun. We look forward to it.
It's taken a while for us to acquire the head-stalls, collars, and saddles but we have them now. Please know that when we started, neither one of us knew what a head-stall was, nor did we know what gullett or rigging meant. Sigh ... those are critical elements in saddles so we had to learn what they meant before we could even come close to purchasing our saddles. Who knew that saddles come in different sizes? Who knew that bits do different things to different types of horses? That would be us -- owners of two first-time-ever-in-their-lives horses. Yep. Got all that figured out now.
We have a few trails in place and plan on cutting through the property at some point so we can have more trails. Fortunately, one of our neighbors said we could ride on his property any time we wanted. Although, I'll call first because he enjoys target shooting -- just to check in.
But that question "Where is your favorite place?" stayed on my mind all day. It was on my mind as I worked my way through the day's activities. Then I noticed the cats.
Most of the cats lounged throughout the house (we have four indoor and one outdoor cat who has apparently moved inside for the winter); some were napping while others were chasing each other; and one is always bird watching out the dinning room window. (That's why I put the bird feeder outside the window, not to frustrate the cats but to enjoy the birds. Ah hummm ... that's why we have indoor cats ... so we'll have alive wild birds.)
I don't nap often but when I do John and Ms Kitty lay on top of me so we can keep each other warm. Then all three of us start purring. Who wouldn't go into deep rim sleep with a purring cat on your chest and another at your feet? It is so blissful that I look forward to an occasional nap. John and Ms Kitty must like our like naps too because they're always close to me.
The dogs are either asleep on the sofas, in their crates, or playing in the back yard. Interacting with them throughout the day, every day is enriching. Between household chores, we'll sometime work on sitting or staying (of course we need hotdog treats). Recently we started walking down the driveway and back (it's about half a mile one way). I walk one dog at a time so we can have one-on-one time with each other. That's probably the second most relaxing time of my day following the cat-purring nap, of course.
Goats are the most incredible creatures on earth and I'm honored to have had the experience of living and working with them. Each has its own personality, likes, dis-likes, and behaviors. Most are loving but some are honery and stubborn. I now the difference between "I don't think so" and "NO'. It's the intensity of the kick. Trust me on this and you'll save yourself a few bruises. Call me if you want details. Drinking their milk is worth all the work and affection. It is without question the most delicious drink I have ever had. I also use their milk to make soaps and lotions because it is healthy for our skin. Goat milk is as good for your outside as it is for your inside.
Then there's the chickens. They always have agendas; chasing one another; catching bugs; grazing; scratching; or bathing in the dirt. We keep them as healthy and clean as possible because they give us delicious fresh eggs every day and their poop, aged of course, goes into the compost pile.
Ah ... my compost piles, I have several. There's poop mountain, which is a mixture of horse and goat waste from both barns; it's in two or three different piles depending on it's age. A good poop pile is like fine wine, the older it is, the better it is. Since we have plenty, I only use the oldest, best, most aged compost, five years or older, depending on where I dig. (My secret spot, shhhhhh.) Digging and turning poop mountain gives me another excuse to play with my tractor. Although I enjoy its power and go-anywhere-ness, my favorite thing is the front bucket. With it I can literally move mountains and enjoy it. UGH power! Did I mention that I love mowing with my tractor?
There's the chicken poop; it's loaded with microbes. I recently dug out at least three years of chicken waste from the chicken coop. Whoooeeee. Now I keep it moist, let the chickens dig for bugs and we're in business.
Their little feet scratch and seek out bugs much better than I ever could. Besides, having some one else break up the soil is a good thing. The more they dig and peck the compost, the better and richer it becomes. We recently bought sixteen baby chicks so our flock has grown from four to twenty. We'll have plenty of poop. Perfect.
Then there's the vermicompost pile for our kitchen waste. Years ago I bought several hundred red wigglers and never looked back. Those little guys make the most p-r-i-m-e compost. Last year I built a garden made of up this compost and the veges exploded with color and fruit.
Oh my goodness. My vegetable garden. This year is it's second year so I can hardly wait for the right time of year to plant the veges and companion plants. I'm expanding the garden this year by surrounding the existing rows with straw bales. That'll be fun having more fresh food. Last year I planted mostly annuals and only had a few perennial vegetables but have added more blue berry, cranberry, and muscadine plants.
This is my first vegetable garden, ever. And being a city girl, admittedly I had no idea how much work was involved. But more than that I had no idea how wonderful the fresh food tasted. It's the shortest distance I've ever traveled for food and we're spoiled. Besides digging in a garden made of rich soil full of red wiggles makes me aware of Mother Nature and her complex organisms.
The bees are next to the vegetable garden -- facing southeast so they can get the morning sun. The bees and I usually work the garden together -- most of the time. However last year one lady did run me out of the garden. It seems as though she was much more interested in gardening than I was so I let her have it. If she wants to pollinate a few flowers instead of letting me weed, then that's OK with me. I can come back later. We've only had the bees one year so we're still learning about them. Again, we look forward to it.
The pollinator garden is almost ready for it's flowers. It's located behind the bees and next to the vegetable garden, near the well. Again, this garden contains the best soil our aged poop mountain can offer. I'm planting it mostly with flowers that bees enjoy but if a few butterflies and other beneficial insects want to settle in, that's a good thing.
So, what's my favorite place? It's my home because that's where all the things I love live -- most especially it's where my husband and I live together. We do these chores together; we enjoy the ranch together. He's helped me deliver baby goats (although he's not keen on milking), clean barns, walk dogs, clean cat cages, plant fruit trees, bury goats, and build outbuildings. He's in charge of the TV remote when it doesn't work, all electrical issues, some plumbing, automatic waters, doing the dishes, and tucking in critters at night all after working all day long. He's incredible and the love of my life.
The real answer is that my favorite place is where my husband is. He is my home. It doesn't matter where we live, just so we're together.
We all thought for a moment then started the round of answers. Most of us said the beach, any beach; one said a local lake, while another was more specific and said a lake in Vermont. I found it interesting that their favorite places were centered around water, lots of water. Group-wide their favorite places was almost unanimous, the beach. Well, almost ... . Then it was my turn.
My answer, on the other hand, was, is, and will always be my home. My husband and I have lived here for more than twelve years and have molded it to fit our needs, wants, and dreams. It's where all the things I love live. Why would I want to go somewhere else to fulfill my dreams? They're right here.
Someone in the group asked if there was a special place on the ranch. That group moves kind of fast so I couldn't take too long to think about it. I thought for the whole minute they gave me then said that if there was such a place, then it would have to be our barn, mainly because it's where our horses and baby goats live, even though it's the place that requires the most work (aka mucking, if know what I mean but we moved out here to get physical exercise).
We moved to the county in 2000 so we could have two horses and live happily ever after. In 2009 we got our first horse (finally) then in 2011 we got the second one. So far ... so good but we have much to learn. Learning is most of the fun. We look forward to it.
It's taken a while for us to acquire the head-stalls, collars, and saddles but we have them now. Please know that when we started, neither one of us knew what a head-stall was, nor did we know what gullett or rigging meant. Sigh ... those are critical elements in saddles so we had to learn what they meant before we could even come close to purchasing our saddles. Who knew that saddles come in different sizes? Who knew that bits do different things to different types of horses? That would be us -- owners of two first-time-ever-in-their-lives horses. Yep. Got all that figured out now.
We have a few trails in place and plan on cutting through the property at some point so we can have more trails. Fortunately, one of our neighbors said we could ride on his property any time we wanted. Although, I'll call first because he enjoys target shooting -- just to check in.
But that question "Where is your favorite place?" stayed on my mind all day. It was on my mind as I worked my way through the day's activities. Then I noticed the cats.
Most of the cats lounged throughout the house (we have four indoor and one outdoor cat who has apparently moved inside for the winter); some were napping while others were chasing each other; and one is always bird watching out the dinning room window. (That's why I put the bird feeder outside the window, not to frustrate the cats but to enjoy the birds. Ah hummm ... that's why we have indoor cats ... so we'll have alive wild birds.)
I don't nap often but when I do John and Ms Kitty lay on top of me so we can keep each other warm. Then all three of us start purring. Who wouldn't go into deep rim sleep with a purring cat on your chest and another at your feet? It is so blissful that I look forward to an occasional nap. John and Ms Kitty must like our like naps too because they're always close to me.
The dogs are either asleep on the sofas, in their crates, or playing in the back yard. Interacting with them throughout the day, every day is enriching. Between household chores, we'll sometime work on sitting or staying (of course we need hotdog treats). Recently we started walking down the driveway and back (it's about half a mile one way). I walk one dog at a time so we can have one-on-one time with each other. That's probably the second most relaxing time of my day following the cat-purring nap, of course.
Goats are the most incredible creatures on earth and I'm honored to have had the experience of living and working with them. Each has its own personality, likes, dis-likes, and behaviors. Most are loving but some are honery and stubborn. I now the difference between "I don't think so" and "NO'. It's the intensity of the kick. Trust me on this and you'll save yourself a few bruises. Call me if you want details. Drinking their milk is worth all the work and affection. It is without question the most delicious drink I have ever had. I also use their milk to make soaps and lotions because it is healthy for our skin. Goat milk is as good for your outside as it is for your inside.
Then there's the chickens. They always have agendas; chasing one another; catching bugs; grazing; scratching; or bathing in the dirt. We keep them as healthy and clean as possible because they give us delicious fresh eggs every day and their poop, aged of course, goes into the compost pile.
Ah ... my compost piles, I have several. There's poop mountain, which is a mixture of horse and goat waste from both barns; it's in two or three different piles depending on it's age. A good poop pile is like fine wine, the older it is, the better it is. Since we have plenty, I only use the oldest, best, most aged compost, five years or older, depending on where I dig. (My secret spot, shhhhhh.) Digging and turning poop mountain gives me another excuse to play with my tractor. Although I enjoy its power and go-anywhere-ness, my favorite thing is the front bucket. With it I can literally move mountains and enjoy it. UGH power! Did I mention that I love mowing with my tractor?
There's the chicken poop; it's loaded with microbes. I recently dug out at least three years of chicken waste from the chicken coop. Whoooeeee. Now I keep it moist, let the chickens dig for bugs and we're in business.
Their little feet scratch and seek out bugs much better than I ever could. Besides, having some one else break up the soil is a good thing. The more they dig and peck the compost, the better and richer it becomes. We recently bought sixteen baby chicks so our flock has grown from four to twenty. We'll have plenty of poop. Perfect.
Then there's the vermicompost pile for our kitchen waste. Years ago I bought several hundred red wigglers and never looked back. Those little guys make the most p-r-i-m-e compost. Last year I built a garden made of up this compost and the veges exploded with color and fruit.
Oh my goodness. My vegetable garden. This year is it's second year so I can hardly wait for the right time of year to plant the veges and companion plants. I'm expanding the garden this year by surrounding the existing rows with straw bales. That'll be fun having more fresh food. Last year I planted mostly annuals and only had a few perennial vegetables but have added more blue berry, cranberry, and muscadine plants.
This is my first vegetable garden, ever. And being a city girl, admittedly I had no idea how much work was involved. But more than that I had no idea how wonderful the fresh food tasted. It's the shortest distance I've ever traveled for food and we're spoiled. Besides digging in a garden made of rich soil full of red wiggles makes me aware of Mother Nature and her complex organisms.
The bees are next to the vegetable garden -- facing southeast so they can get the morning sun. The bees and I usually work the garden together -- most of the time. However last year one lady did run me out of the garden. It seems as though she was much more interested in gardening than I was so I let her have it. If she wants to pollinate a few flowers instead of letting me weed, then that's OK with me. I can come back later. We've only had the bees one year so we're still learning about them. Again, we look forward to it.
The pollinator garden is almost ready for it's flowers. It's located behind the bees and next to the vegetable garden, near the well. Again, this garden contains the best soil our aged poop mountain can offer. I'm planting it mostly with flowers that bees enjoy but if a few butterflies and other beneficial insects want to settle in, that's a good thing.
So, what's my favorite place? It's my home because that's where all the things I love live -- most especially it's where my husband and I live together. We do these chores together; we enjoy the ranch together. He's helped me deliver baby goats (although he's not keen on milking), clean barns, walk dogs, clean cat cages, plant fruit trees, bury goats, and build outbuildings. He's in charge of the TV remote when it doesn't work, all electrical issues, some plumbing, automatic waters, doing the dishes, and tucking in critters at night all after working all day long. He's incredible and the love of my life.
The real answer is that my favorite place is where my husband is. He is my home. It doesn't matter where we live, just so we're together.
Monday, March 18, 2013
Living STRONG at the YMCA with Cancer
In early February 2013 I was approved for a program called
LiveSTRONG at the Y. It’s designed to help cancer survivors rebuild their lives,
their bodies, and their spiritual strength with careful planning and assistance
from experienced physical exercise professionals.
LiveSTRONG at the Y, associated with the Lance Armstrong Foundation, partners with the YMCA in offering a twelve week full-family YMCA membership so the entire family can use the Y’s facilities to strengthen their mind, body and spirit together.
Our first meeting was an overview of the program and our introduction to each other – thirteen cancer survivors who would be united for twelve weeks in strengthening their lives.
We introduced ourselves by mentioning one thing about our lives that we wanted the group to know. Every person has a different type of cancer, and a different prognosis. Some are now cancer free; others are continuing their treatments; still others have incurable cancer and will live with it forever.
We were led through a series of questions that revealed even more about our feelings and emotions. Using a set of photographs we selected pictures that reflected our feelings about what our lives were like before cancer; what we felt like when we first found out we had cancer; and what we want our lives to be like from now on.
Thirteen different experiences and points of view crossed the emotional spectrum from laughter to tears. Our lighthearted beginning laughter gradually grew to emotional tears because each of us realized that our lives and the lives of every family represented in this room have forever been affected. No one in this room would ever be in the world without cancer. No one’s life would ever be the same as before.
These icebreaking techniques were light, entertaining, and helped each of us to slowly and gracefully reveal how we felt when we first learned that we had cancer. For instance, my cancer surgery was in March of 2011, (I’m pretty sure that each of us remember their surgical date.)Some of those emotions have been glossed-over or forgotten. The exercises helped me bring many of those thoughts back to the surface so I could deal with them. Might as well, I'm one of the incurable ones.
Some of us are more aware of our fight than others. For instance, one of us missed a session because his chemotherapy treatment had made him so ill that he was in bed for four days. His first day back he was pale and moved slowly but he seemed to complete his exercises and even passed me on the track; and I thought I was moving faster than usual. I have personally met a true fighter and an honored friend.
LiveSTRONG at the YMCA is the only cancer survivor group I’ve been in and I find it engaging. I find my mates to be strong, inspiring, helpful, and spiritual people. Spirituality comes to the forefront when you’re life depends on successful surgeries and continued medical care. I've always been a deeply spiritual person although not necessarily a Christian. Oddly, before surgery I prayed to and accepted prayers from every source. It worked because I'm here today. Now I live in a state of thankfulness.
The only cancer support group available at the Cancer Center is for breast cancer survivors. It breaks my heart that there are so many breast cancers but more than that my heart breaks because there are so many types of cancers. I had no idea -- that is before I became one of them.
Before we began the LiveSTRONG program each of us was given a questionnaire about our cancer, medications, and over-all health. Our responses helped the YMCA instructors get to know us, our medications, and our relationship with cancer.
Our second meeting was when the work began. With information garnered from our questionnaire the Y instructors created workouts for each of us that would benefit our individual physical levels; they took into account our medications and physical activities.
For the next twelve weeks we will meet on Tuesdays and Thursday in the second floor Conference Room where our pulse is noted on our charts. Next we will do a warm-up exercise then we go to work. Half of us head to the track for our prescribed walk, while the other half goes to the weight room.
Did I mention that at least one Y instructor, usually two or more, is with us at all times? Yes, we are in excellent hands. I’ve never had such a feeling of care at an exercise facility before. We have to be on our toes too because they’ll randomly stop us to take our pulse (and note it) so we can see how we’re progressing. The instructors are always present to help us adjust equipment, to offer exercise advice, to talk with us to make sure our breathing is appropriate, and to take our pulse (I seek out the Warm-Handed One whenever possible.)
So far we’ve warmed up, walked the track, worked out on the cardio equipment and weights then stretched out to cool off. We close each meeting with a reflection question helping us to slow down mentally as well as physically.
We’ve been working out with weights but next week we’ll exercise in a different way. Our instructor explained that we would meet in a different exercise room and that we would be doing the Zumba workout followed by an extended stretch out session. A voice from the crowd said, “Is there a pole involved?” Following a long deserved choir of laughter we were assured that "there was no pole involved."
Over the past few weeks I’ve noticed more laughter among the group. This tells me that we’re getting to know each other. We’re all more playful and more relaxed with each other.
Clearly our sense of humor is intact. Everyone needs to maintain a sense of humor when cancer is involved.
LiveSTRONG at the Y, associated with the Lance Armstrong Foundation, partners with the YMCA in offering a twelve week full-family YMCA membership so the entire family can use the Y’s facilities to strengthen their mind, body and spirit together.
Our first meeting was an overview of the program and our introduction to each other – thirteen cancer survivors who would be united for twelve weeks in strengthening their lives.
We introduced ourselves by mentioning one thing about our lives that we wanted the group to know. Every person has a different type of cancer, and a different prognosis. Some are now cancer free; others are continuing their treatments; still others have incurable cancer and will live with it forever.
We were led through a series of questions that revealed even more about our feelings and emotions. Using a set of photographs we selected pictures that reflected our feelings about what our lives were like before cancer; what we felt like when we first found out we had cancer; and what we want our lives to be like from now on.
Thirteen different experiences and points of view crossed the emotional spectrum from laughter to tears. Our lighthearted beginning laughter gradually grew to emotional tears because each of us realized that our lives and the lives of every family represented in this room have forever been affected. No one in this room would ever be in the world without cancer. No one’s life would ever be the same as before.
These icebreaking techniques were light, entertaining, and helped each of us to slowly and gracefully reveal how we felt when we first learned that we had cancer. For instance, my cancer surgery was in March of 2011, (I’m pretty sure that each of us remember their surgical date.)Some of those emotions have been glossed-over or forgotten. The exercises helped me bring many of those thoughts back to the surface so I could deal with them. Might as well, I'm one of the incurable ones.
Some of us are more aware of our fight than others. For instance, one of us missed a session because his chemotherapy treatment had made him so ill that he was in bed for four days. His first day back he was pale and moved slowly but he seemed to complete his exercises and even passed me on the track; and I thought I was moving faster than usual. I have personally met a true fighter and an honored friend.
LiveSTRONG at the YMCA is the only cancer survivor group I’ve been in and I find it engaging. I find my mates to be strong, inspiring, helpful, and spiritual people. Spirituality comes to the forefront when you’re life depends on successful surgeries and continued medical care. I've always been a deeply spiritual person although not necessarily a Christian. Oddly, before surgery I prayed to and accepted prayers from every source. It worked because I'm here today. Now I live in a state of thankfulness.
The only cancer support group available at the Cancer Center is for breast cancer survivors. It breaks my heart that there are so many breast cancers but more than that my heart breaks because there are so many types of cancers. I had no idea -- that is before I became one of them.
Before we began the LiveSTRONG program each of us was given a questionnaire about our cancer, medications, and over-all health. Our responses helped the YMCA instructors get to know us, our medications, and our relationship with cancer.
Our second meeting was when the work began. With information garnered from our questionnaire the Y instructors created workouts for each of us that would benefit our individual physical levels; they took into account our medications and physical activities.
For the next twelve weeks we will meet on Tuesdays and Thursday in the second floor Conference Room where our pulse is noted on our charts. Next we will do a warm-up exercise then we go to work. Half of us head to the track for our prescribed walk, while the other half goes to the weight room.
Did I mention that at least one Y instructor, usually two or more, is with us at all times? Yes, we are in excellent hands. I’ve never had such a feeling of care at an exercise facility before. We have to be on our toes too because they’ll randomly stop us to take our pulse (and note it) so we can see how we’re progressing. The instructors are always present to help us adjust equipment, to offer exercise advice, to talk with us to make sure our breathing is appropriate, and to take our pulse (I seek out the Warm-Handed One whenever possible.)
So far we’ve warmed up, walked the track, worked out on the cardio equipment and weights then stretched out to cool off. We close each meeting with a reflection question helping us to slow down mentally as well as physically.
We’ve been working out with weights but next week we’ll exercise in a different way. Our instructor explained that we would meet in a different exercise room and that we would be doing the Zumba workout followed by an extended stretch out session. A voice from the crowd said, “Is there a pole involved?” Following a long deserved choir of laughter we were assured that "there was no pole involved."
Over the past few weeks I’ve noticed more laughter among the group. This tells me that we’re getting to know each other. We’re all more playful and more relaxed with each other.
Clearly our sense of humor is intact. Everyone needs to maintain a sense of humor when cancer is involved.
Thursday, May 10, 2012
Living the first year with cancer
It's been over a year since I was diagnosed with stage four carcinoid cancer. So far the lesions in my liver have been stable. By that I mean that no new growths have been detected nor have the existing lesions changed. All my doctors tell me to keep doing what I have been doing, with one exception.
I still need to lose fifty pounds. For one day, not too long ago, I was almost under 200 pounds. I swear that I saw 199.9 on the laundry room scale. But the next day that 200 mark was there -- again. Sigh ... . I probably rejoiced in my old fashioned way by celebrating with food. I'm not sure what happened, but the next day I was back to 200. That depressed me and before I knew it I was back up to 210. Sigh ... . Now I'm back to 200. One day at a time.
I do remember feeling like I was losing myself by being thinner. I was losing myself. Even though I have fifty pounds to go, thirty-eight pounds have already disappeared.. My clothes are way too big, they're baggy and I'm constantly pulling them up. Yet I refuse to go buy new ones. After all, I still work in my beloved barns. Suspenders for my barn jeans would be just fine. And I enjoy wearing slightly loose clothing when we go out.
Other than losing weight, life pretty much goes on as before. Well except for the massive eating changes. My husband and I no longer eat processed foods. Gone are the hamburgers, frozen dinners, frozen pizza, processed meats, and bottled dressings. Yep, he's still losing weight, too. He won't tell me how much (He'd better not.) but his clothes are loose, too. Gone are the carbonated drinks and I don't miss them one bit. Filtered ice water is delicious, as is Gatorade, 100 percent fruit juice, Ensure and green teas. Nope, lost my taste for coffee during my hospital stay. What they serve was not coffee; not the way I make it anyway. Then when I got home, I just didn't want it any more. Sigh ... .
I did start a garden. By starting a garden, I mean I am building it. The location is on a slight hill so I decided to build raised gardens. So far I have four 4 x 8 plots. Each one of those four had to be leveled, front-to-back and side-to-side. My handy cultivator helped me dig out some areas while building up other corners. Neighboring rocks and a few bricks helped level some spaces.. Getting those hummers level was a job but they look terrific and will forever get full sun.
I used a compass to make sure they were dead-on facing north and south; and, a level to make sure they were level in all directions. Being anally-retentive in some areas is OK. It was kind of fun. But I drew the line when it came to leveling the aisles. They're four feet wide but have a slight slope to them. Perfect. As long as a wheelbarrow fits between them, I'm happy.
Speaking of compasses, the bees are facing south-east -- perfectly. They get the morning sun to help them wake up and get beeeeeeezy. We should have honey in the fall and beeswax for making candles.
So, when I say I've built a garden, that's really just the beginning. Now I'm studying more about the seasons, the stars and when to plant or weed, and companion planting; learning which plants do well next to each other. There is so much to learn. And while reading about those topics I learned something else new -- row hedging. As I understand it, row hedging is collection of plants that attracts beneficial bugs. No, there is no end to learning. Perfect.
Bob and I eat more fresh lettuce than ever before. I just walk to the garden and harvest a head of lettuce around supper time. Any non-beneficial worms I find on the plants go to the chickens on the way to the house. Naturally, the weeds go to the goats. They watch every move I make when in the garden. Expecting morsels that I pull from the vegetable plots.
Bob and I will be glad when the broccoli is ready and a few tomatoes are starting to grow.Speaking of which, that reminds me. The two tomato plants in containers near the front door that aren't doing so well so I'll plant some garlic with them by the end of this day. It rained yesterday so the soil will be nice and soft.
Did I mention that I used five-year-old compost as the foundation for my garden beds. Aged complete with hundreds of worms is magic soil that comes from our Poop Mountain. Thanks to our goats and horses, we will have an endless supply of this black gold.
Keep Smiling.
I still need to lose fifty pounds. For one day, not too long ago, I was almost under 200 pounds. I swear that I saw 199.9 on the laundry room scale. But the next day that 200 mark was there -- again. Sigh ... . I probably rejoiced in my old fashioned way by celebrating with food. I'm not sure what happened, but the next day I was back to 200. That depressed me and before I knew it I was back up to 210. Sigh ... . Now I'm back to 200. One day at a time.
I do remember feeling like I was losing myself by being thinner. I was losing myself. Even though I have fifty pounds to go, thirty-eight pounds have already disappeared.. My clothes are way too big, they're baggy and I'm constantly pulling them up. Yet I refuse to go buy new ones. After all, I still work in my beloved barns. Suspenders for my barn jeans would be just fine. And I enjoy wearing slightly loose clothing when we go out.
Other than losing weight, life pretty much goes on as before. Well except for the massive eating changes. My husband and I no longer eat processed foods. Gone are the hamburgers, frozen dinners, frozen pizza, processed meats, and bottled dressings. Yep, he's still losing weight, too. He won't tell me how much (He'd better not.) but his clothes are loose, too. Gone are the carbonated drinks and I don't miss them one bit. Filtered ice water is delicious, as is Gatorade, 100 percent fruit juice, Ensure and green teas. Nope, lost my taste for coffee during my hospital stay. What they serve was not coffee; not the way I make it anyway. Then when I got home, I just didn't want it any more. Sigh ... .
I did start a garden. By starting a garden, I mean I am building it. The location is on a slight hill so I decided to build raised gardens. So far I have four 4 x 8 plots. Each one of those four had to be leveled, front-to-back and side-to-side. My handy cultivator helped me dig out some areas while building up other corners. Neighboring rocks and a few bricks helped level some spaces.. Getting those hummers level was a job but they look terrific and will forever get full sun.
I used a compass to make sure they were dead-on facing north and south; and, a level to make sure they were level in all directions. Being anally-retentive in some areas is OK. It was kind of fun. But I drew the line when it came to leveling the aisles. They're four feet wide but have a slight slope to them. Perfect. As long as a wheelbarrow fits between them, I'm happy.
Speaking of compasses, the bees are facing south-east -- perfectly. They get the morning sun to help them wake up and get beeeeeeezy. We should have honey in the fall and beeswax for making candles.
So, when I say I've built a garden, that's really just the beginning. Now I'm studying more about the seasons, the stars and when to plant or weed, and companion planting; learning which plants do well next to each other. There is so much to learn. And while reading about those topics I learned something else new -- row hedging. As I understand it, row hedging is collection of plants that attracts beneficial bugs. No, there is no end to learning. Perfect.
Bob and I eat more fresh lettuce than ever before. I just walk to the garden and harvest a head of lettuce around supper time. Any non-beneficial worms I find on the plants go to the chickens on the way to the house. Naturally, the weeds go to the goats. They watch every move I make when in the garden. Expecting morsels that I pull from the vegetable plots.
Bob and I will be glad when the broccoli is ready and a few tomatoes are starting to grow.Speaking of which, that reminds me. The two tomato plants in containers near the front door that aren't doing so well so I'll plant some garlic with them by the end of this day. It rained yesterday so the soil will be nice and soft.
Did I mention that I used five-year-old compost as the foundation for my garden beds. Aged complete with hundreds of worms is magic soil that comes from our Poop Mountain. Thanks to our goats and horses, we will have an endless supply of this black gold.
Keep Smiling.
Friday, November 4, 2011
Monday, September 12, 2011
Altered eating habits this weekend ...
... and uhhh can we tell a difference. Husband and I have been eating simply prepared foods: fresh veges, grilled or baked chicken or fish, and ton of salads and juices, and feeling great. I'm lucky that the husband is supportive and willing to eat salads.
But this weekend I needed a kitchen quickie so I bought some KFC. A BIG bucket. We pigged out Friday night on fried chicken, cole slaw and beans. Delicious that night.
The next morning we paid for this indulgence. Bob and I both felt bloated, fat, and full for hours. We didn't care and had more chicken for lunch. What a treat.
Again, that night we paid the price. We could feel the grease in our systems sloshing around.
Soooooo, last night we finally got back on track and had whole wheat penne, grilled chicken dish with tons of tomato sauces. It is so easy to make our own spaghetti sauce we just can bring ourselves to buy prepared sauce any more.
Sometime I need a kitchen quickie but next time I won't buy as much. My eyes are still bigger than my stomach. Yes, I'm working on this.
But this weekend I needed a kitchen quickie so I bought some KFC. A BIG bucket. We pigged out Friday night on fried chicken, cole slaw and beans. Delicious that night.
The next morning we paid for this indulgence. Bob and I both felt bloated, fat, and full for hours. We didn't care and had more chicken for lunch. What a treat.
Again, that night we paid the price. We could feel the grease in our systems sloshing around.
Soooooo, last night we finally got back on track and had whole wheat penne, grilled chicken dish with tons of tomato sauces. It is so easy to make our own spaghetti sauce we just can bring ourselves to buy prepared sauce any more.
Sometime I need a kitchen quickie but next time I won't buy as much. My eyes are still bigger than my stomach. Yes, I'm working on this.
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Started treatment with Octreotide
My first visit to the 'back room' of the cancer center was somewhat comforting. It was a large room with a centralized nursing station surrounded by large over-stuffed comfy-looking chairs. Each chair was encircled with a privacy curtain and plenty of magazines. Now I know where the good magazines are located.
My nurse made me feel comfortable by explaining everything I needed to know about the octreotide and what would be happening within the next few days. For the first three days I'll get less than a milliliter of medicine just to make sure I have no allergies or obnoxious side effects. Then on the fourth day I'll receive the 30-day version. Baby steps are always a good thing.
Well, so far so good. The shot is oil-based and requires a larger needle than I'd hoped but since I use a larger one for some of the medicines I give my goats I can't complain too much.
Moving on. I felt a bit swimmy-headed walking to my car. Not wanting to drive away from the clinic too soon, I sat there for a few minutes. I was OK in a couple of minutes.
The really good news is that I can already tell a difference; I've only had one bowel movement since I've been home and it was decent. Before the octreotide I'd have movements of mostly diarrhea about over two hours.
Hummmm, maybe this shot will work after all. I've had diarrhea since 1998 when my gall bladder was removed. Relief, at last.
I go for tiny shot number two tomorrow. I'll let you know how that goes.
Keep smiling
My nurse made me feel comfortable by explaining everything I needed to know about the octreotide and what would be happening within the next few days. For the first three days I'll get less than a milliliter of medicine just to make sure I have no allergies or obnoxious side effects. Then on the fourth day I'll receive the 30-day version. Baby steps are always a good thing.
Well, so far so good. The shot is oil-based and requires a larger needle than I'd hoped but since I use a larger one for some of the medicines I give my goats I can't complain too much.
Moving on. I felt a bit swimmy-headed walking to my car. Not wanting to drive away from the clinic too soon, I sat there for a few minutes. I was OK in a couple of minutes.
The really good news is that I can already tell a difference; I've only had one bowel movement since I've been home and it was decent. Before the octreotide I'd have movements of mostly diarrhea about over two hours.
Hummmm, maybe this shot will work after all. I've had diarrhea since 1998 when my gall bladder was removed. Relief, at last.
I go for tiny shot number two tomorrow. I'll let you know how that goes.
Keep smiling
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
Met with oncologist for my three-month followup
The news was good -- all the tests indicate that my cancer is stable. No new growths, no changes. That's good. If that's good then why am I sad.
I'm sad and mad because nothing can be done to get this out of my body. I'm not a candidate for liver surgery because the tumors are scattered throughout my liver. The good news is that they haven't grown since my last CAT scan. We're in the 'let's check again in three months'. I can't imagine how expensive this experience will be. I'm feeling somewhat fatalistic this morning. Based on what I've read, having a day like this is normal. CRAP.
The good news is that carcinoid tumor cancer is extremely slow growing but they do grow.
I start my octreotide shots today because I still have diarrhea. Diarrhea has been part of life ever since I lost my gall bladder in 1999. I wonder if a CAT scan back then would have changed today's outcome.
Ahhhhhhhhhh the value in 20-20 hindsight.
The shots will start small. First I get less than a milliliter with a tiny needle. That's good. The medicine will last for a couple of days and is a test to see if I have any reactions. I hope not ... what's my other choice?
See? Told you I was a fatalist. I'll shape out of it in a minute. Bare with me.
My doctor answered all my web-found questions and even spoke kindly about the Carcinoid Cancer Foundation (CCF). I'm glad he's heard of them. Now I can continue reading the materials with an increased confidence.
ALL of my medical professionals have told me to stay OFF the web. "Don't believe what you read. Most of that information is WRONG. You're chances are better then what you'll read about." My CHANCES? These words are aimed at me and if aimed at me then my family structure will change dramatically. THAT's why I'm sad. Knew the reason would surface.
Guess I'd better start finding my animals good homes. Well, the goats at least. The dogs, cats, chickens, and horses are family. So are the goats, if the truth be known. I LOVE my goats ... but they need better, longer lasting homes. They're good goats.
That's enough for now. I need to go adjust. :)
I'm sad and mad because nothing can be done to get this out of my body. I'm not a candidate for liver surgery because the tumors are scattered throughout my liver. The good news is that they haven't grown since my last CAT scan. We're in the 'let's check again in three months'. I can't imagine how expensive this experience will be. I'm feeling somewhat fatalistic this morning. Based on what I've read, having a day like this is normal. CRAP.
The good news is that carcinoid tumor cancer is extremely slow growing but they do grow.
I start my octreotide shots today because I still have diarrhea. Diarrhea has been part of life ever since I lost my gall bladder in 1999. I wonder if a CAT scan back then would have changed today's outcome.
Ahhhhhhhhhh the value in 20-20 hindsight.
The shots will start small. First I get less than a milliliter with a tiny needle. That's good. The medicine will last for a couple of days and is a test to see if I have any reactions. I hope not ... what's my other choice?
See? Told you I was a fatalist. I'll shape out of it in a minute. Bare with me.
My doctor answered all my web-found questions and even spoke kindly about the Carcinoid Cancer Foundation (CCF). I'm glad he's heard of them. Now I can continue reading the materials with an increased confidence.
ALL of my medical professionals have told me to stay OFF the web. "Don't believe what you read. Most of that information is WRONG. You're chances are better then what you'll read about." My CHANCES? These words are aimed at me and if aimed at me then my family structure will change dramatically. THAT's why I'm sad. Knew the reason would surface.
Guess I'd better start finding my animals good homes. Well, the goats at least. The dogs, cats, chickens, and horses are family. So are the goats, if the truth be known. I LOVE my goats ... but they need better, longer lasting homes. They're good goats.
That's enough for now. I need to go adjust. :)
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Meditation
The Universe has an incredible way of communicating. All we have to do is listen. But listening to the Universe can be tricky. The one way I've noticed that it talks to me is when things keep coming up. For instance, the value of meditation keeps repeating itself. Every where I look, I see some message about meditation.
I get it. I get it.
Meditation is an important part of life. It used to be a part of my life but I seem to get busy and forget or simply don't take the time to slow down and meditate or reflect of the journey of the day.
Life has a way of telling you what is more important then other things. Life is telling me that meditation and growing within is important enough for me to take notice and focus inwardly.
As I learn more about it and identify resources, I'll post them here.
Deepak Chopra has several books, CDs, and learning aids about meditation. Here is one of his websites:
http://www.chopra.com/dailyinspiration
I get it. I get it.
Meditation is an important part of life. It used to be a part of my life but I seem to get busy and forget or simply don't take the time to slow down and meditate or reflect of the journey of the day.
Life has a way of telling you what is more important then other things. Life is telling me that meditation and growing within is important enough for me to take notice and focus inwardly.
As I learn more about it and identify resources, I'll post them here.
Deepak Chopra has several books, CDs, and learning aids about meditation. Here is one of his websites:
http://www.chopra.com/dailyinspiration
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
New link for carcinoid tumor cancer signs
http://www.fittodo.com/Fun-Healthy-Living/Health-And-Wellness/Medical-Conditions-A-Z/Carcinoid-Tumors.aspx
This link is the most concise I've found on signs of carcinoid tumor cancers. As with all cancers, the earlier they're found, the better chances of survival you have.
This link is the most concise I've found on signs of carcinoid tumor cancers. As with all cancers, the earlier they're found, the better chances of survival you have.
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Fighting Cancer Through Macrobiotic Cooking
As I mentioned earlier, I've been researching cancer-fighting foods. I began in my cookbook library, which is quite extensive since I'm a closet foody. To my amazement, I found three outstanding resources. In this article I'll discuss macrobiotic cooking.
Macrobiotic Cooking for Everyone by Edward & Wendy Esko; Japan Publications, Inc. Tokyo; January 1984.
Yes, I've been researching various nutritional modalities for years. Whether I follow them or not, I still like to know how other folks feel about their foods.
In this book, Part One discusses Macrobiotics: Way of life for everyone: the Harmony of Opposites, Anecdotes: East and West; and Food of the Past, for the Present, and Future.
It's quite a comprehensive study of food's relationship with our body in relationship to earth and the heavens. I find the modality to be relatively easy to use and follow as long as you have access to a grocery store or health food store for oriental ingredients. Back in the 80's I had to shop at health food stores; but, today my local grocery store caries most of the ingredients mentioned in this book.
Macrobiotic cooking in a nutshell:
"Macrobiotic cooking is simply the art of balancing those universal forces as they appear on earth and in the biological world so as to achieve harmony with our immediate environment in nature and with the universe as a whole. Biologically, this condition of balance or equilibrium is referred to as health, while psychologically, we refer to it as happiness, (p. 7)."
Reading this book again after so many years reinforced my decision to build our own garden. Almost every day new information becomes available about hidden ingredients or processes in our nation's mass production of food that isn't healthy for us. Edgar Casey introduced me to the notion of eating local foods. He was right -- again.
Part Two: Cooking for Health, Happiness, and Freedom goes into detail about each food-type then offers several recipes. Macrobiotic cooking mostly entails whole grains, soups, vegetables, beans, sea vegetables, and seafood with oriental condiments. Delicious. No fancy cooking processes, just simple, easy recipes but you will need a pressure cooker. Yummm ... .
Over the years as we learn more about how our foods are being grown and processed, growing one's own produce is becoming critically important to health. Perhaps my eating habits are what caused my carcinoid cancer. Who knows. But I do know it was triggered by a hormone imbalance but what caused that anomaly is hard to define. According to my doctors, there is noway of knowing for sure.
But I can tell you that living only eight to eleven more years is not enough time for me. My To Do list is longer than that. You're too, probably. If altering my eating habits will thwart further carcinoid tumor development, then that's a fix that I can do something about.
In the meantime, I'll continue to lose weight for my overall health and to get off my high blood pressure and high cholesterol medicines. Being over weight isn't good for cancers either. So far I've lost over 20 pounds. Only 70 more to go. Piece of cake.
Macrobiotic Cooking for Everyone by Edward & Wendy Esko; Japan Publications, Inc. Tokyo; January 1984.
Yes, I've been researching various nutritional modalities for years. Whether I follow them or not, I still like to know how other folks feel about their foods.
In this book, Part One discusses Macrobiotics: Way of life for everyone: the Harmony of Opposites, Anecdotes: East and West; and Food of the Past, for the Present, and Future.
It's quite a comprehensive study of food's relationship with our body in relationship to earth and the heavens. I find the modality to be relatively easy to use and follow as long as you have access to a grocery store or health food store for oriental ingredients. Back in the 80's I had to shop at health food stores; but, today my local grocery store caries most of the ingredients mentioned in this book.
Macrobiotic cooking in a nutshell:
"Macrobiotic cooking is simply the art of balancing those universal forces as they appear on earth and in the biological world so as to achieve harmony with our immediate environment in nature and with the universe as a whole. Biologically, this condition of balance or equilibrium is referred to as health, while psychologically, we refer to it as happiness, (p. 7)."
Reading this book again after so many years reinforced my decision to build our own garden. Almost every day new information becomes available about hidden ingredients or processes in our nation's mass production of food that isn't healthy for us. Edgar Casey introduced me to the notion of eating local foods. He was right -- again.
Part Two: Cooking for Health, Happiness, and Freedom goes into detail about each food-type then offers several recipes. Macrobiotic cooking mostly entails whole grains, soups, vegetables, beans, sea vegetables, and seafood with oriental condiments. Delicious. No fancy cooking processes, just simple, easy recipes but you will need a pressure cooker. Yummm ... .
Over the years as we learn more about how our foods are being grown and processed, growing one's own produce is becoming critically important to health. Perhaps my eating habits are what caused my carcinoid cancer. Who knows. But I do know it was triggered by a hormone imbalance but what caused that anomaly is hard to define. According to my doctors, there is noway of knowing for sure.
But I can tell you that living only eight to eleven more years is not enough time for me. My To Do list is longer than that. You're too, probably. If altering my eating habits will thwart further carcinoid tumor development, then that's a fix that I can do something about.
In the meantime, I'll continue to lose weight for my overall health and to get off my high blood pressure and high cholesterol medicines. Being over weight isn't good for cancers either. So far I've lost over 20 pounds. Only 70 more to go. Piece of cake.
Saturday, May 7, 2011
Fighting Carcinoid Cancer and Boosting My Immune System with Food
Since there is no medication nor chemotherapy treatment for carcinoid cancer, my best defense will be coming through the food I eat. Having forever been a believer is the adage of you are what you eat, I've decided to change who I am by altering my eating habits. I am, however, a relatively typical American; over the years I've convinced myself that I too busy to cook from scratch so I heat frozen meals, mostly family sized so we'll have left-overs.
My wake-up call began in January 2011 when I was diagnosed with carcinoid cancer. February was filled with all types of tests, most of which required a needle in my vein. Don't like those. Based on the test results, surgery was scheduled for March 7th.
All this time I was operating on faith because I felt fine. I showed up for the doctor's appointment, the tests, and the surgery on blind faith that what everyone was telling me was true. I had nothing to go on but their expertise. I felt the same way I had been feeling for several years, months, and days -- over weight but fine. It felt strange to go into surgery without any pain or aggravation. Just blind faith. I digress ... .
Eating hospital food for seven days will change most appetites but I actually found it to be quite good. That is when I finally got to eat solid foods. For the first few days my diet progressed from crushed ice, to clear broths, pudding and jello, then to soft but solid foods like vegetables.
Hospitals don't know how to make coffee so I passed on that beverage throughout my stay. To my shagrin that absence of coffee changed my taste buds so dramatically that I can no longer tolerate coffee or hot tea. Decades of coffee-drinking tradition had been changed in seven days. Pout
Now I drink gallons of juice instead. You know, I'm living quite well without coffee. Didn't think that could happen. But since it did ... I'm wondering just how challenging it would be to make better food choices all the time. But which foods fight cancer and boost my immune system?
My research began in my cookbook library, which is quite extensive because I'm a book hound. Upon first glance I found three books:
My oncologist gave me a cookbook that he hands out to his patients:
Amazon.com offered several choices but I chose the following:
I've read most of them so far. But as I find interesting points in them, I'll pass that on to you so you can make your own choices.
Keep smiling,
Pat
My wake-up call began in January 2011 when I was diagnosed with carcinoid cancer. February was filled with all types of tests, most of which required a needle in my vein. Don't like those. Based on the test results, surgery was scheduled for March 7th.
All this time I was operating on faith because I felt fine. I showed up for the doctor's appointment, the tests, and the surgery on blind faith that what everyone was telling me was true. I had nothing to go on but their expertise. I felt the same way I had been feeling for several years, months, and days -- over weight but fine. It felt strange to go into surgery without any pain or aggravation. Just blind faith. I digress ... .
Eating hospital food for seven days will change most appetites but I actually found it to be quite good. That is when I finally got to eat solid foods. For the first few days my diet progressed from crushed ice, to clear broths, pudding and jello, then to soft but solid foods like vegetables.
Hospitals don't know how to make coffee so I passed on that beverage throughout my stay. To my shagrin that absence of coffee changed my taste buds so dramatically that I can no longer tolerate coffee or hot tea. Decades of coffee-drinking tradition had been changed in seven days. Pout
Now I drink gallons of juice instead. You know, I'm living quite well without coffee. Didn't think that could happen. But since it did ... I'm wondering just how challenging it would be to make better food choices all the time. But which foods fight cancer and boost my immune system?
My research began in my cookbook library, which is quite extensive because I'm a book hound. Upon first glance I found three books:
- Macrobiotic Cooking for Everyone by Edward & Wendy Esko, Japan Publications, Inc., Tokyo; January 1980
- Meals that Heal by Anne Egan and Regina Ragone, MS, RD; Rodale, Inc., 2001; and
- The Healthy Kitchen by Andrew Weil, MD and Rosie Daley; Random House, NY, 2002
My oncologist gave me a cookbook that he hands out to his patients:
- Eating Well Through Cancer by Holly Clegg & Gerald Miletello, MD 2011.
Amazon.com offered several choices but I chose the following:
- The Anti-Cancer Cookbook by Julia B. Greer, MC, MPH; Sunrise River Press 2008; and
- The Cancer-Fighting Kitchen by Rebeca Katz with Mat Edelson, Ten Speed Press, 2009.
I've read most of them so far. But as I find interesting points in them, I'll pass that on to you so you can make your own choices.
Keep smiling,
Pat
Friday, May 6, 2011
I've been researching a variety of cancer related foods
So far most of the foods that have been recommended are foods that I like: fresh vegetables, fruits, nuts, fish and lean meat. However, I have found conflicting information on wine. One source says to stay away from any and all alcoholic beverages. Whereas my doctor and Dr. Oz say that one glass of red wine a day is a good thing. I'll let you know.
Before going into the hospital I'd have way more than two glasses a night. I'm glad that cycle was broken. I don't miss the wine but occasionally a glass might be good. Protecting my liver seems to be a more prudent choice. Hummm ... I haven't decided what to do yet.
Not drinking coffee wasn't my idea. After being in the hospital for seven days and not having access to coffee, I found that I didn't like the taste any more. Actually, I don't want a hot drink in the mornings. Two large pint glasses of juice tastes wonderful. Any kind of juice will do but my favorite is V8 with about 8 gluggs of Worcestershire sauce in it. Yummmmm ... . It's my version of a Bloody Mary. That's been the hubster's favorite drink for years. Now he can't leave his cup anywhere or it'll turn up empty.
We have prioritized our garden. I started one last year but it got too hot before I could finish it so it just sat there accumulating more and more weeds. I'm definitely a fair weather gardener. It's a 25 foot square garden with four 4x8 raised beds. I think. The weeds have taken over so I'm guessing.
Don and I put a mesh fence around it a couple of days ago so we can put several goats in the garden. They'll have the weeds out of there in one or two days. AND, they'll fertilize it while they're in there. They're my little edgers and lawn mowers.
Be on the lookout for pictures of this. It'll be a site to see. More later ... I'm finally getting sleepy so it's back to bed for me.
Before going into the hospital I'd have way more than two glasses a night. I'm glad that cycle was broken. I don't miss the wine but occasionally a glass might be good. Protecting my liver seems to be a more prudent choice. Hummm ... I haven't decided what to do yet.
Not drinking coffee wasn't my idea. After being in the hospital for seven days and not having access to coffee, I found that I didn't like the taste any more. Actually, I don't want a hot drink in the mornings. Two large pint glasses of juice tastes wonderful. Any kind of juice will do but my favorite is V8 with about 8 gluggs of Worcestershire sauce in it. Yummmmm ... . It's my version of a Bloody Mary. That's been the hubster's favorite drink for years. Now he can't leave his cup anywhere or it'll turn up empty.
We have prioritized our garden. I started one last year but it got too hot before I could finish it so it just sat there accumulating more and more weeds. I'm definitely a fair weather gardener. It's a 25 foot square garden with four 4x8 raised beds. I think. The weeds have taken over so I'm guessing.
Don and I put a mesh fence around it a couple of days ago so we can put several goats in the garden. They'll have the weeds out of there in one or two days. AND, they'll fertilize it while they're in there. They're my little edgers and lawn mowers.
Be on the lookout for pictures of this. It'll be a site to see. More later ... I'm finally getting sleepy so it's back to bed for me.
Meeting My Oncologist for the First Time
My husband and I stood in line at the receptionist's desk to let her know we were here for our appointment. I looked at Bob and said, "We're not really here. This isn't really happening, is it?"
"No," he said as we both glanced at the ceiling. I'm OK with denial. It's a comfortable place to be ... most of the time. We sat and waited.
The sound of the nurse's voice calling my name to come back to meet the doctor resonated throughout my body. What a reality check. No more denial allowed. I had to step up to the plate and face this cancer. Cancer is scary word.
We met the doctor in a conference room instead of an exam room; this was a first. Hummm ... . He entered the room with my records in his hands then proceeded to introduce himself. He reviewed my medical records with us then started talking about treatment options.
Since the tumor had been removed, there would be no need for more surgeries. But the carcinoid cells had traveled to my liver where the other doctors found more then seven spots. Now we have to deal with those.
My oncologist took the time to describe the various options and which route would be best for me. Thankfully carcinoid cancer is an extremely slow growing cancer so we're going to 'watch it' for now. I'll go in for a CAT scan and other tests in three months before returning to his office. That way, we'll have more information on how my little intruder is acting.
My plan of attack is to re-evaluate the foods we eat. Several foods have cancer-fighting properties, we'll definitely be eating those. As well as eliminating as many processed foods as possible. Being typical Americans, I've fallen into the rut of preparing many packaged meals because we're busy. Those must fall to the way side.
You know, all of a sudden, I'm NOT that busy because my longevity and the quality of my family's life depends on it. It's my job to slow down the growth of these carcinoid cells. Or, better yet, stop their growth all together.
As I discover food tips, I'll include them here. So please check back from time to time to find out how you too could improve your health.
I'll also ad the links where I find value. Like the one below.
Here's the first link I visited:
http://www.thenetalliance.com/index.jsp
More later, Pat
"No," he said as we both glanced at the ceiling. I'm OK with denial. It's a comfortable place to be ... most of the time. We sat and waited.
The sound of the nurse's voice calling my name to come back to meet the doctor resonated throughout my body. What a reality check. No more denial allowed. I had to step up to the plate and face this cancer. Cancer is scary word.
We met the doctor in a conference room instead of an exam room; this was a first. Hummm ... . He entered the room with my records in his hands then proceeded to introduce himself. He reviewed my medical records with us then started talking about treatment options.
Since the tumor had been removed, there would be no need for more surgeries. But the carcinoid cells had traveled to my liver where the other doctors found more then seven spots. Now we have to deal with those.
My oncologist took the time to describe the various options and which route would be best for me. Thankfully carcinoid cancer is an extremely slow growing cancer so we're going to 'watch it' for now. I'll go in for a CAT scan and other tests in three months before returning to his office. That way, we'll have more information on how my little intruder is acting.
My plan of attack is to re-evaluate the foods we eat. Several foods have cancer-fighting properties, we'll definitely be eating those. As well as eliminating as many processed foods as possible. Being typical Americans, I've fallen into the rut of preparing many packaged meals because we're busy. Those must fall to the way side.
You know, all of a sudden, I'm NOT that busy because my longevity and the quality of my family's life depends on it. It's my job to slow down the growth of these carcinoid cells. Or, better yet, stop their growth all together.
As I discover food tips, I'll include them here. So please check back from time to time to find out how you too could improve your health.
I'll also ad the links where I find value. Like the one below.
Here's the first link I visited:
http://www.thenetalliance.com/index.jsp
More later, Pat
I'm almost strong enough to attempt the steps down to the factory
I'll be taking a few weeks off from making soaps and lotions to recover from a bit of surgery. A while back we found a tumor that was growing where it shouldn't be. So we're going in to in and get it out. So there ... .
My team of folks are confident that everything will be fine. Good grief, after all the tests I've taken, there is absolutely no secret of what's inside my body. The surgeon knows exactly where he needs to go and precisely what he needs to do. Piece of cake.
Our son Don is visiting with us so he'll be taking care of the critters and the ranch, and Bob's mother Essie will take care of him. So now I can relax knowing my loves are in capable hands. I can rest and recuperate without a concern. Whew!
I'll be happy to respond to your comments upon my return to the office.
If you are inquiring about purchasing goats, please call 704-699-3531.
I'd appreciate your prayers.
Pat Allen.
My team of folks are confident that everything will be fine. Good grief, after all the tests I've taken, there is absolutely no secret of what's inside my body. The surgeon knows exactly where he needs to go and precisely what he needs to do. Piece of cake.
Our son Don is visiting with us so he'll be taking care of the critters and the ranch, and Bob's mother Essie will take care of him. So now I can relax knowing my loves are in capable hands. I can rest and recuperate without a concern. Whew!
I'll be happy to respond to your comments upon my return to the office.
If you are inquiring about purchasing goats, please call 704-699-3531.
I'd appreciate your prayers.
Pat Allen.
I'll be taking a medical break from March 7th to March 30th
I'll be taking a few weeks off from making soaps and lotions to recover from a bit of surgery. A while back we found a tumor that was growing where it shouldn't be. So we're going in to in and get it out. So there ... .
My team of folks are confident that everything will be fine. Good grief, after all the tests I've taken, there is absolutely no secret of what's inside my body. The surgeon knows exactly where he needs to go and precisely what he needs to do. Piece of cake.
Our son Don is visiting with us so he'll be taking care of the critters and the ranch, and Bob's mother Essie will take care of him. So now I can relax knowing my loves are in capable hands. I can rest and recuperate without a concern. Whew!
I'll be happy to respond to your comments upon my return to the office.
If you are inquiring about purchasing goats, please call 704-699-3531.
I'd appreciate your prayers.
Pat Allen.
My team of folks are confident that everything will be fine. Good grief, after all the tests I've taken, there is absolutely no secret of what's inside my body. The surgeon knows exactly where he needs to go and precisely what he needs to do. Piece of cake.
Our son Don is visiting with us so he'll be taking care of the critters and the ranch, and Bob's mother Essie will take care of him. So now I can relax knowing my loves are in capable hands. I can rest and recuperate without a concern. Whew!
I'll be happy to respond to your comments upon my return to the office.
If you are inquiring about purchasing goats, please call 704-699-3531.
I'd appreciate your prayers.
Pat Allen.
Carcinoid Tumor Removed via Surgery
It's taking time for all this cancer-stuff to soak in. Even though I was diagnosed with carcinoid cancer in early January, recent events still feel like a bad dream. Sigh ... with that said, my research on carcinoid continues. Some discoveries are exciting while others are not likable at all. For instance, I'm not happy about there being no cure; nor am I happy with the expected life span of between eight and fifteen years. That's not enough time for me to accomplish certain goals. (Sound familiar to you, too?)
Bob and I had a good meeting with my surgeon today. He answered all our questions to our satisfaction even though some discussions didn't tell what us what we wanted to hear. Mainly that there really is no cure for carcinoid. Nope. No such luck.CRAP
My surgeon is super, though. He takes the time to talk with us about anything we bring up. Bob and I came away with a new understanding of carcinoid cancer and how we'll be dealing with it. And he reinforced my oncologist's mode of treatment, too. That's always a good thing when doctors agree on YOUR treatment.
Right now we're doing nothing with medication or surgery. But we will continue monitoring my liver with CAT or MRI scans. The carcinoid spread to my liver and caused several spots to show up on a previous MRI. Unfortunately, none of the spots could be removed during my previous surgery. CRAP
I return to both doctors in July following additional tests. So far, we've established a baseline of my health from earlier tests. The July tests will be measured against the original tests to see what's happening with my liver. The differences between the two tests will help us determine our next course of action.
Since carcinoid is soooooooooo slow growing, we'll probably do nothing but watch it for a long time. (That's my hope.) However, since each carcinoid and person are vastly different, we'll respond as needed to keep me healthy and honory.
In a way I'm OK with this modality but in another way, I'd like to pursue a more aggressive treatment for the spots in my liver seeing as my liver's health is my challenge now. Taking the watch and see road is so passive. But then again, passive can be a good thing. Although it doesn't help release my anger and frustration for all this cancer-stuff.
More later ...
Bob and I had a good meeting with my surgeon today. He answered all our questions to our satisfaction even though some discussions didn't tell what us what we wanted to hear. Mainly that there really is no cure for carcinoid. Nope. No such luck.CRAP
My surgeon is super, though. He takes the time to talk with us about anything we bring up. Bob and I came away with a new understanding of carcinoid cancer and how we'll be dealing with it. And he reinforced my oncologist's mode of treatment, too. That's always a good thing when doctors agree on YOUR treatment.
Right now we're doing nothing with medication or surgery. But we will continue monitoring my liver with CAT or MRI scans. The carcinoid spread to my liver and caused several spots to show up on a previous MRI. Unfortunately, none of the spots could be removed during my previous surgery. CRAP
I return to both doctors in July following additional tests. So far, we've established a baseline of my health from earlier tests. The July tests will be measured against the original tests to see what's happening with my liver. The differences between the two tests will help us determine our next course of action.
Since carcinoid is soooooooooo slow growing, we'll probably do nothing but watch it for a long time. (That's my hope.) However, since each carcinoid and person are vastly different, we'll respond as needed to keep me healthy and honory.
In a way I'm OK with this modality but in another way, I'd like to pursue a more aggressive treatment for the spots in my liver seeing as my liver's health is my challenge now. Taking the watch and see road is so passive. But then again, passive can be a good thing. Although it doesn't help release my anger and frustration for all this cancer-stuff.
More later ...
Hearing my Doctor's Voice
And so it begins ... .
Those were the first words that went through my head when my doctor told me that he found a tumor during a routine CAT scan.
"Crap" was the word that sums up my feelings about this matter. Crap.
Tumors are amazing creatures with minds of their own apparently. Not too long ago 'they' discovered a carcinoid tumor on my small intestine and said it had to come out. Imagine all of those life changing words in one sentence aimed at me. But we're lucky; carcinoid tumors are exceedingly slow growing tumors. Apparently there are few if any symptoms for these tumors. Most are found incidentally while looking for something different. That's what happened to me.
Several years ago I was diagnosed with gastrointestinal reflux disease (GURD). It has been relatively easy to live with and didn't require me to change my daily life much. I took my meds, cut down on acid foods like tomatoes, and didn't eat right before going to bed. For the most part, GURD and I were getting along nicely.
Upon occasion, a strange feeling would travel through my intestinal track, though. Over the years I had learned to feel the different levels of discomfort. Most of the time the aches were routine. Nothing bizarre, nothing really painful. Just different.
That is until last September when a completely different pain struck my gut. My husband and I went to the ER where I drank a liquid that could be tracked via a CAT scan. Without any obvious blockage or fever, I was given the appropriate meds and told to follow up with our family doctor within 3 to 5 days.
Before I could get into the appointment, our family physician called with results of the CAT scan. He has been our family physicion since 2000 so he knows us well. But he never calls. He's busy, we respect that. He's with us when he needs to be; he knows our lifestyle, likes, and work habits. Besides, over the years most every member of his staff has relayed his messages in terms that we can understand. I trust any and all of his staff, knowing they will convey accurate and timely information.
So, when I heard his voice, my heart sank. I zoned out. Crap.
I believe by the third time he repeated his message he finally got my attention. My mind shut down when I heard his voice. After all, I was expecting one of his staff members to call with the CAT scan results.
I remember hearing his worlds, "It's my job to inform and educate you while settling your down." I know he said much more but that's when I heard. Hummm ... . My first thought was to tell him to put his assistant on the phone but the words didn't come out. I listened to him again.
As always he had done his homework before he calling. We had trusted him for twelve years, I knew I had to hang in there and hear what he was saying. He started talking about carcinoid tumors and how to deal with them. I'm not liking this but I'm listening.
I heard, 'mumble mumble surgery mumble mumble surgery'. Then silence took over again. Guess I was processing the surgery word and couldn't take in any more. Denial is defiantly a self preservation tactic.
Next I heard that his assistant would be calling me back with the appointment with the surgeon. And I thought a dentist was scary. A surgeon? Crap.
Those were the first words that went through my head when my doctor told me that he found a tumor during a routine CAT scan.
"Crap" was the word that sums up my feelings about this matter. Crap.
Tumors are amazing creatures with minds of their own apparently. Not too long ago 'they' discovered a carcinoid tumor on my small intestine and said it had to come out. Imagine all of those life changing words in one sentence aimed at me. But we're lucky; carcinoid tumors are exceedingly slow growing tumors. Apparently there are few if any symptoms for these tumors. Most are found incidentally while looking for something different. That's what happened to me.
Several years ago I was diagnosed with gastrointestinal reflux disease (GURD). It has been relatively easy to live with and didn't require me to change my daily life much. I took my meds, cut down on acid foods like tomatoes, and didn't eat right before going to bed. For the most part, GURD and I were getting along nicely.
Upon occasion, a strange feeling would travel through my intestinal track, though. Over the years I had learned to feel the different levels of discomfort. Most of the time the aches were routine. Nothing bizarre, nothing really painful. Just different.
That is until last September when a completely different pain struck my gut. My husband and I went to the ER where I drank a liquid that could be tracked via a CAT scan. Without any obvious blockage or fever, I was given the appropriate meds and told to follow up with our family doctor within 3 to 5 days.
Before I could get into the appointment, our family physician called with results of the CAT scan. He has been our family physicion since 2000 so he knows us well. But he never calls. He's busy, we respect that. He's with us when he needs to be; he knows our lifestyle, likes, and work habits. Besides, over the years most every member of his staff has relayed his messages in terms that we can understand. I trust any and all of his staff, knowing they will convey accurate and timely information.
So, when I heard his voice, my heart sank. I zoned out. Crap.
I believe by the third time he repeated his message he finally got my attention. My mind shut down when I heard his voice. After all, I was expecting one of his staff members to call with the CAT scan results.
I remember hearing his worlds, "It's my job to inform and educate you while settling your down." I know he said much more but that's when I heard. Hummm ... . My first thought was to tell him to put his assistant on the phone but the words didn't come out. I listened to him again.
As always he had done his homework before he calling. We had trusted him for twelve years, I knew I had to hang in there and hear what he was saying. He started talking about carcinoid tumors and how to deal with them. I'm not liking this but I'm listening.
I heard, 'mumble mumble surgery mumble mumble surgery'. Then silence took over again. Guess I was processing the surgery word and couldn't take in any more. Denial is defiantly a self preservation tactic.
Next I heard that his assistant would be calling me back with the appointment with the surgeon. And I thought a dentist was scary. A surgeon? Crap.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)