ANA, FULL
OF SPIRIT
Ana, full of spirit, with a face that glows bright.
A light showing the way when darkness came.
The one that gave the inspiration, and united we are going to conquer the world.
The energy continues glowing from heaven.
Ana, guide the doctors and me to spread the knowledge that made you so overwhelmed with love and enthusiasm.
I honor today with the heart of passion
And will keep the fire burning
In Ana's name.
Shining like a star and providing strength
Ana, full of spirit.
She is the angel whose inspiration sparked a fire within to carry a message to a world where the relentless and ruthless disease of cancer continues to claim victims, leaving behind broken loved ones, unrealized Dreams, and robbing people’s life savings. Ana, I know the guidance is from heaven. I lean on the memory of your strength. This commitment to this cause completes the important work, and you are not to be forgotten.
SMILE, LAUGH, GIGGLE
As I sit and conjure my thoughts, a question comes to mind. If you could have your cake and eat it too--would you? There are two sides to every coin, as there are to every story. But I can say our journey shared over these next pages shows an experience many of us share. There are dark moments and moments of inspiration. There is love, along with sheer terror. Tears stain these pages, showing the reviving energy of great joy. Hope and education are what I am trying to provide. In the end, what is life without them? This writing is for finding inspiration when it is lost.
Dan and I are neither a doctor, nor have the experience of one, but we are both survivors of cancer who feared for our lives. This is not about what is right or wrong; it is about educating ourselves to make choices, along with the awesome power of knowledge. Everyone should be given a choice, and it should be up to each of us to educate ourselves. With the internet, today, it's easy to research and discover alternative therapies and methodologies for treating and winning the battle against this disease. So first, we must believe that these solutions are possible. This is Dan and my personal story we choose to share with you so that you may become aware of another path to wellness of the body, mind, and spirit (FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE).
MARRIED COUPLE -
DAN & SHERYL'S JOURNEY WITH MANAGING CANCER WITH FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE
WE FEEL SAFE AGAIN
Dan and my hope is that through learning about our experience, you the reader can discover the alternative strategies for cancer treatment. The decision to choose a course of action is personal, and it is better to be aware of the options. Many times, for various reasons we are not informed of successful methodologies for survival of specific cancers. It is important for each of us not to entirely listen to the advice of our doctor; we should make an effort to seek information that may have the effect of least helping you to understand more what is happening. The journey to wellness can take several paths, and we should be open to that idea. Knowledge is power and in our particular case, it helped us to cope with the fear we were feeling and gave us confidence to use a different direction. Dan and I provided each other with the encouragement to go another way that was not within my country. Our goal is to share our story. If you find strength in your fight, then Dan and I achieved a purpose larger than ourselves.
LIFE IS A CELEBRATION
Life is a celebration; it’s a gift that was created from above.
Life is a heartbeat that flows throughout our lives with the gift of
Love, joy and peace.
We were given these wonderful gifts to share with one another.
Love is the fondness, and affection of the mind caused by that which delights--
Kindness, and regard for one another.
Joy is the intense gladness of rejoicing and feelings, or expressing
Rejoicing to one another.
Peace is a state of quiet its freedom from contention, disturbance of war.
This gift was given to us with our hearts not with our lives.
Everyone’s life is special, and we were given this gift to make a difference in our
Everyday functions.
During our journey, let’s bring these gifts back to life with special meaning.
The fondness with an affection of kindness, a gladness of rejoicing and expressing rejoicing,
And a state of quiet, not conflict.
CANCER JUST NOT EFFECTS THE PATIENT - BUT THE WHOLE FAMILY AND FRIENDS
2010 - SHERYL'S JOURNEY THROUGH FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE
In the beginning, I feared the word cancer, but as I began my journey I was able to smile, and laugh with giggles. I am blessed and humbled to share this experience with you and trust you have an open mind for the hope someday we accept this form of treatment.
From My Diary
I’ve been diagnosed with breast cancer. Daily I ask myself if I am selfish for not using the conventional way. People are diagnosed with this nasty sickness yearly and do not realize what to do other than accept what physicians tell us. I remember when I went to the surgeon and he said “it is what it is” how overwhelmed I was. I knew even before he said this that I was going toward a different way. But we are not given choices. We put our faith in the doctors and all they learn is the conventional training.
My husband researched and found several types of treatments, but because they are not FDA-approved they are not performed in the USA. It’s amazing; Germany and Mexico provide other methods that work. I chose a path that will be an alternative to surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation methods that are conventionally used kill the illness. Other methods seek out the cause and enhance immunity. The whole principle is to manage the disease with a healthy lifestyle. I decided to do a journal of my experience for others to see how they can survive without it. Either way, you do have choices to walk your own path. It is as easy as googling on the computer. Within my writings, I give a website that provide other ways. This is a day to practice the power of choice. Choose the quality of mood you want. Whether you'll adopt a positive or negative attitude, the decision is up to you! Your goal is to realize you do have the ability to enhance your life each moment!
WE HAVE CHOICES AND WE ARE NOT ALONE
The morning started out similar to any other day until the big word cancer came up in the same sentence as my name. I drove around the corner from my house to the outpatient X-ray department of our local hospital. Searching for a parking spot became a challenge in itself and after circling for ten minutes I finally found one. I had an 8:00 a.m. appointment so I told my husband Dan I would go by myself since this was only a routine procedure. Waiting in line, I checked in and got my papers to fill out. When I completed them, I approached the area where you check in and gave the paperwork to the rep. I watched Good Morning America until a tech came over to me and asked if I was Sheryl. I said yes. She asked my birth date, and I replied 1/18/58. Then I was escorted to the back where I prepared for the mammogram.
The tech appeared pleasant. While she was taking different pictures of my breasts, we spoke of her children. I began a conversation telling her about my daughter and her career as a children’s fashion designer. With that, we ended on what styles they wore. When the tech finished, she advised me to stay, for she was going to talk to the radiologist to confer if more views were needed. Time passed slowly, and in ten minutes she came back. The radiologist requested several new pictures on the right. Upon completion, I was directed to the waiting room where they did the sonograms. She hugged me, saying with a whisper, “Good luck.” At that moment, I should have known something appeared to be up. Leaving, I wished her a Merry Christmas.
Again, it seemed hours before they called me in for the procedure. A sonogram of the breasts is like having a baby; you have no modesty. She put this jelly matter on me and started rolling a computer mouse around. While the mouse moved, she took pictures of the areas they questioned that appeared to be masses. This procedure lasted for a while, and the tech said, “I am going to show the radiologist to see if she needs me to take more pictures.” Again, I ended up alone, but this time I had jelly all over me. The radiologist came in and introduced herself and took the mouse and I could hear them whispering between themselves; this went on for some time while they took more pictures. The tech then cleaned up the jelly. Then I sat up and she advised that on the right breast they saw suspicious masses. They looked similar to cancer. I was told they would call my family doctor to schedule me in for a biopsy.
At this point I knew why I avoided physicians. In back of my brain, I thought that it could be possible that someday I might get cancer the same as my dad. Well, it came to pass! All I knew was that I did not want to be treated like he had been with chemo and radiation. Driving home while thinking of the nasty disease I came to the conclusion that I would handle this on a positive note. I walked in and saw Dan sitting in his chair watching TV, for he had been preparing for surgery on his foot, and that’s a long story in itself. I looked at him and explained what was said to me. We both believed in another way to fight our issue.
The force of a driving dream
The will of a bending knee
The harvest of a living hope
Such mystery amazes me.
12-2-10
I was happy that the prior day was ultimately over, but there were so many emotions and decisions to face. I never had to confront a life-threatening disease, although I had been involved with family and friends that did. While wondering what, I might be facing, my answer appeared.
Surprise, lunch was on the table ready to eat; then the phone rang and looking over to the caller ID the number showed it was the family physician. I picked up the telephone and the doctor proceeded to tell me the results and advised me to go for a biopsy. I was dismayed that he called on his own instead of having his nurse call. He stated he could write a script for it. I told him I wanted to visit him in the office to go over the steps and discuss the issues. Realty set in and I knew what direction everyone was gearing toward.
“Okay,” he said, “how is 12/7/10 around 10:30 a.m.?”
I checked with Dan and it did not interfere with his doctor visit. So, it was scheduled and at that point I kept a positive attitude and asked him not to mention the diagnosis to anyone until we had the facts, and then we would decide on what type of treatment might be available.
“Life is full of beauty. Notice it. Notice the bumblebee, the small child, and the smiling faces. Smell the rain, and feel the wind. Live your life to the fullest potential, and fight for your dreams.”
12-7-10
EXCITED ABOUT MY DAUGHTER COMING HOME
Suddenly everything escaped my mind, for I had my daughter to see. She was coming home to recoup from being abroad. Tuesday, like every other day, we woke up to enjoy a cup of coffee while watching Dr. Oz. After Dan’s heart attack three years ago, we have been on a health kick. We eat red meat once in a while, but mainly we eat a great deal of fruits and greens and instead of ice cream we enjoy yogurt. We were very into keeping ourselves healthy. It was time to get ready for the drive to the doctor’s office. We both had questions to ask, so off we went. Upon arriving at the office, before the doctor sees you they call you up to the front and take your co-pay. After paying I sat in the chair to wait with my word search book while Dan read a sports magazine. I glanced up as the door opened and my name was called. We followed the nurse into the little room where the doctor came in for the examination. This appointment would be just exchanging words.
I had a routine check of my weight, temperature, blood pressure, and pulse. After she asked if I took any medicine and whether anything had changed since my last visit, she replied, “The doctor will be in soon.” We started a conversation about the issue at hand, and after a few minutes there came a knock on the door. He greeted us as always with small talk regarding personal thoughts, and then being serious he said, “This is not anything that we can wait on.”
I advised him that I had concerns and need to go over them. The first question was: “When they do the biopsy, if the masses are cancerous, could it get launched in my breast while they get the sample?”
He replied, “No a tube goes through and the sample will remain within it.”
It sounded convincing, for the cells would not spread that way. The other issue was what would happen later. “Well, Sherry,” he said, “you know the next step! I know a surgeon in the area and he is the best.”
While looking at my husband, I stated, “That it is not what I had in mind.” I do not believe in the whole thing surgery and chemo, but he reminded me of all the people who had made it past the treatments. I've been in the medical field for thirty years and seen several cancer patients and even my own family go through hell and the end results were not good. Dan stated to the doctor that he did not want me to die and he would do whatever it takes to get me better. We left the office with a script and disbelief about what the future would bring. Together we had been focusing on his surgery, for it was coming up on the 15.th. Danielle was coming home for his surgery.
After the doctor’s office, I went down to the outpatient X-ray department to schedule my biopsy, and ended up with the 9th, the day my daughter was coming in from California and we were picking her up in Orlando.
“Laughter is ♪•*¨*•.¸¸♪¸¸.•*¨*•♪
timeless. Imagination has no age.
And dreams are forever.” -Tinker bell
¸.•*¨*•♪♪•*¨*•.
12-9-10
THOUGHTS WERE COMING TO ME
The month was passing me by with doctor visits. It was uncanny how we were planning physician trips and procedures for me when we'd been focusing on Dan's health. The biopsy was scheduled for today at 4:00 p.m., which gave us plenty of time to pick up Danielle at the airport in Orlando. I walked into the outpatient X-ray department and waited in line. It seemed to go slowly, and there must have been three to four people before me. Finally, my turn, and it was the same procedure as before. I had to give them the insurance card and ID, then place my hand over a weird object that read my palm, and with that I had to sign twice--one signature for permission to file to my insurance, and the other for release of medical records. As I sat down I had more forms to fill out. If that is not stress! Now I had to use the bathroom, which was outside the office in the main lobby. Dan stayed in his seat with my purse and coat. When I got back the tech called my name. She came out and asked for my e-mail. WHAT????
“Oh, I mean your birth date,” she said.
I replied, “1-18-58.”
This is the most important thing to remember when having a procedure or surgery. I was then taken back to the dressing room, where I changed into a hospital gown.
Thoughts kept coming to me during the delay about the biopsy and the side effects. In addition, a piece of paper was handed to me to sign. She knew the process inside and out. I had no questions for her. Another tech came in to start the prep for the biopsy. She put the jelly on my breast and started the mouse; as she proceeded with the sonogram the radiologist stepped in and introduced himself. Now you have to understand how modest I am. I am so meek that even with my husband I have a hard time letting him look at my body! Now I had strange people looking at my boobs. He explained what he would be doing and began. I was able to see the masses as it was being done.
Three biopsies were scheduled for two masses plus the mass on my lymph nodes. They prepped me with this brown-looking stuff and he gave me a local. It was similar to what a dentist gives. For the first biopsy, he inserted a tube and this long instrument with prongs on the ends. I could see it on the screen and all of a sudden, a staple noise. He got a specimen, which didn't appear like enough, and he would return back to acquire one more. While doing this, we started talking, along with the others. The tech asked me what I did for a living and I replied, “I make greeting cards. I always wanted to do something artistically and now I create artistic cards.” Someone in the room spoke out, saying that it is just a piece of paper. As compassionate as I am about art and cards, I explained to them that a card is art, and has shapes and colors with words that have meaning. Close your eyes and imagine somewhere special and describe it with words.
I asked if any of them had talents they would like to express. The nurse sang in a band and wrote songs. The tech also sang, but said only in the bathroom. The radiologist wanted to go back to school to become a physician. He was joking around. At that point everyone spoke up. The nurse would like to go to Fuji with her husband on her 25th anniversary. I mentioned my trip to Hawaii on my anniversary. I related that I took over one thousand pictures, taking shots one after another and never seeing the beauty in the moment. She replied she didn’t take many photos, for she loved seeing it as it happened. I said, "Well when I get old and have memory loss, I can see them and will not forget." They all laughed and continued to go ahead with the procedure.
Finally, he finished and explained the markers were put in the place where he biopsied the spots. He advised I would be getting a mammogram right after this to be sure they got the correct areas. When all was finished, it was not as tough as I imagined--I guess because I talked and got involved in the conversation. The radiologist told me he would receive the results on Monday the 13th and would call me and my doctor with these. I had made friends when I got done, for they both hugged me and wished me luck.
12-13-10
WEEKEND HERE AND GONE
Before this month, I always looked forward to the weekend, but now I am very unsure. I am not looking ahead. The reason is that I do not want to face the coming days.
With my husband and my daughter by my side the weekend came and went. We spent a quiet time at the park and having a picnic. With nature around us, we stopped thinking of our health problems.
It's the big day! The radiologist would be calling with results. Ring! Ring! Ring! The caller ID showed the number for the hospital. I picked it up and said hi. He responded, "Hello and how is your day going?" I said great and then I asked him the same question. We were making small talk and under my breath trying to avoid the real reason he called. I spoke up, saying, “I hope you have good news.”
He replied, "Sorry, I do not." He explained the findings--I had cancer and he would be contacting my doctor. The next thing I can remember is handing the phone over to Dan. It was up to him to ask any questions needed. It appeared silent for a while and then the hugs. I am not letting this disease run my life.
That afternoon we received another call from our doctor. Dan put him on speaker phone so both of us could hear what he had to say. He advised me of a surgeon, who is the best in this area. His nurse would contact their office and schedule an appointment. The clock kept on ticking and time kept on going slowly, while we decided to come up with Plan B.
Wealth, what is it? Many of us are wealthy
in numerous ways although we simply do not recognize it. Enjoy the wealth you already have in your family and friends, in your health, in your freedom, in your knowledge,
and most importantly, in yourself.
12-14-10 to 12-20-10
MAYBE YOU CAN'T CHANGE THE WHOLE WORLD, BUT IF?
Time went fast, and I kept busy every day. Today I decided to go back to the X-ray department. I asked for the written reports. Dan became glued to the internet, doing a great deal of research, checking other procedures around the world. He looked at protocol being used in Germany and then found information linking to Mexico. I got a book by Suzanne Somers called Knockout. It's coming together for me and I felt good, for there can be other ways to treat this disease. This opened up my eyes to what the USA and what other countries offer. It’s amazing how different techniques are used around the world.
The next day on the 15th we had to put a hold on research, for Dan needed to prepare for his surgery on his foot. Time to go to the hospital. We were there from 3:00 p.m. to around 7:00 p.m. until they took him back to the surgery room. It was a long day for Danielle and me. Afterward, the doctor came out and showed me Dan’s foot on an X-ray. He said the procedure went well and at that time I asked how soon he could travel. I explained to him about my condition and that we might be going to Mexico. He stated that we should do what is best for me and he would work with it. Dan ended up there for three days.
Finally, he came home and for a day. We relaxed and slept from exhaustion. It wasn’t long before I was scheduled for an MRI and I needed to prepare for the procedure. I told Dan and Danielle that I would go alone, for it wasn’t something major.
“Maybe you can't change the whole world, but if you have love in your heart you can make small differences every day, which really does change the world, one life at a time.”
12-21-10
IT'S BECOMING A BIG BLUR
By now I am a little afraid. I am worried about the outcome. It's the day of my MRI, scheduled for 5:00 p.m. I do not know what to expect. I never experienced this type of x-ray. I left Dan with Danielle with his foot raised up high on his chair and I drove to the hospital. I kept hoping that I would find a parking space close to the building, for I never had good luck finding one. I had no trouble this night. I brought my driver’s license and insurance card, for this is required before a procedure. It seemed that I lived there, for I have been going almost every week for either an X-ray or a procedure. No line and I got checked in fast. I had to fill out more paperwork and then my name was called: “Sheryl!”
I replied, “Yes!” The tech took me back to the dressing room to change into their stylish outfit. I sat out in the waiting room and in not more than five minutes I was sent back. First, they inserted an IV for a contrast with the MRI. No problem sticking a needle in my arm. She asked if I was afraid of tight spaces. Thinking about that question, I replied no, for I had never experienced that before. The tech explained what would happen and in one hand I held a button, and if I couldn’t handle the small space anymore I should press the button. In the other hand, I had the IV tubing. Oh yes--and music! There were several types. Really, this did not make any difference. When the machine was turned on you didn't hear the music. During the procedure, another request was that I could not move until between takes. When the procedure started, I had an itch on my nose. I began meditating and praying that it was almost over so I could scratch; this is why she asked if I would be afraid of tight spaces. The procedure lasted at least thirty minutes. Thank God it was over. As they sent me back to the changing room, my life was beginning to be a blur. It hit me and emotionally I became exhausted. I sat down and got dressed back in my outfit and realized what impact I was experiencing. I drove home to find Dan asking me for a pain pill.
“Courage is standing face to face with fear... and smiling at it!”
12-22-10 to 12-23-10
THIS IS A DAY TO PRACTICE THE POWER OF CHOICE
Finally, as you can see, the power of choice will be mine. My doctor’s office called, for they scheduled me in on 12-24-10 at 7:30 a.m. with the surgeon. The only thing I thought was that it would be Christmas Eve, and I wondered how Dan and I are going to get ready early with his foot. Danielle spoke out and said she wanted to go--so be it! During those two days, we did more research, finding different methods in other countries that treated this disease. My older sister was checking around and buying me vitamins which fought off cancer. We picked a facility that looked comfortable and was in Mexico. We had the director of the oncology department call from the facility and he explained the procedures they offered. I faxed over my reports to him, for he stated they did an assessment individually to determine what type of treatments would be best. I liked their concept, for they took care of each individual person and did not just treat the disease. The conversation lasted an hour and a half. It was refreshing and for the first time since I was told of the sickness I felt a relief coming over me. He advised that another physician would get in touch with us for additional information.
Now, I am getting ready for tomorrow and Dan set the cell phone alarm for 4:30 a.m. The wheelchair was stored in the trunk. It will be dark when we take it out. We do not know what to expect.
This is a day to practice the power of choice. Choose the quality of mood you want that is, whether you'll adopt a positive or negative attitude. The choice is up to you! Your goal: to realize you do have the ability to enhance your life each day
12-24-10
RING, RING, RING THE ALARM GOES OFF!
Well, it’s another day; rise and shine. Dan, Danielle, and I got up to the alarm. I dressed and helped Dan, for it was less than two weeks ago, he had his surgery. I mean it's a big blur; we worked together and made it out the door. I drove toward downtown Clearwater toward the surgeon’s office. We got there way before then decided to stay in the car and rest until 7:00 a.m. As we were resting the parking lot filled up with cars, so we knew that the building had opened. Dan needed to go to the restroom, so Danielle went to the back of the car to get the wheelchair and I opened his door. We put him in it and rolled toward the bathroom. I pressed the elevator button to the 3rd floor to check in. Upon arrival, I handed the paperwork which had been mailed to me over to them.
The wait was not very long. We as a family went to the exam room to see a diagram of a breast on the wall, along with my MRI. The nurse came in asking questions. Dan and Danielle stepped out prior to the examination. The physician walked in to introduce himself with the sonogram machine. He did another view, for he needed to see the markers and where the masses stood. I found that was interesting, for I got to look at what he saw. He told me that I could get dressed again and my family could join me. Well was not great news, which I knew, but he reinforced it. In his own words, “IT IS WHAT IT IS.” He began drawing on the dry-erase board the procedure that he would be doing, and after that, of course, the chemo and radiation program. He gave explanations of the side effects while not letting us ask anything until he finished. After his explanation, I felt overwhelmed. This was not what I wanted. The way he spoke, I felt I had no other choice except surgery.
After a few minutes, he had his scheduler come in and introduced herself by saying she takes care of scheduling procedures. We followed her into her room and sat down and after only a second she asked me if Tuesday or Thursday would be good. I said, “For what, surgery? I am leaving town, for my daughter is moving to New York.”
“When are, you coming back?” she asked. I told her it would be around the 24th of January. She then replied, “We can get you in on the 26th.” Danielle and I looked at one another and I am sure we thought the same thing that they were going too fast. I spoke out and said I would call when I got home. She proceeded to get the surgeon and he restated how important this was, and it needed to be addressed soon. I stated to him that I understood, and we left. All of us thought he pushed toward this too quickly. I drove to the house and that night we opened up our gifts and celebrated Christmas.
IT’S THE SEASON OF HOPE
I’m
Gratified
That the energy
Of hope and love is twinkled
In each of our lives this year.
We all have been through a lot; but are
Strong, and through the brightness of one another
The hope of the coming year will bring joy. We will be
Able to sing the highest tone with our voices; for love never
Ends. Let’s rejoice for hope is coming to us and rewards. May your
New Year give you the gratitude to help our planet
Grow in the right direction.
12-25 to 1-10-11
HAPPY NEW YEAR
Now that the holidays were coming to an end, Dan and I had to face another situation. The treatments I chose were not covered under my insurance and were not FDA approved. After Christmas and getting ready for the New Year, we began organizing everything together to be able to get the opportunity to use the methods provided for me in Mexico. I had to ask for medical records. I contacted my family physician and explained what I had decided to do. We went to Dan’s doctor and had a cast put on his foot for the flight. We stopped at the banks to take care of how we were going to pay. If that is not stress what is?
On 1-9-11 we finally got our affairs together and a doctor from the facility called and said she would have the travel department arrange our traveling plans. It’s set for 1-12-11. I felt relief and was nervous at the same time. This is the right thing to do. I am very lucky that I have a husband, daughter, and family that stand by what I believe in and are backing me up going for another choice other than surgery, chemo, and radiation.
1-11-11
MY JOURNEY BEGINS TOMORROW IN MEXICO
I know this information is overwhelming. You are very precious. It is important we take care of ourselves. I hope this will help you decide if ever you have to face this life change. Please follow my daily treatment and see how it affects me in a positive way.
1-12-11
WELCOME TO MEXICO
The venture of the unknown starts. I am going to cross the border and stay in Mexico for three weeks. I don't know how to speak any Spanish. This will be a challenge, on top of being unable to swallow pills.
Welcome to Mexico! Today started very early, for Dan and I arrived at Tampa Airport around 9:00 a.m. and our plane did not leave until noon. We checked in and headed straight to Starbucks for coffee. We felt relaxed, though with some anxiety.
The airplane ride to Houston went smoothly. They brought a wheelchair to Dan, but the walker he had and the wheelchair were too big for the aisle. So, a representative stopped by with an aisle chair. When it finally came, we headed toward the plane and were the first to be seated. I enjoyed the royal treatment.
We were the last off the aircraft when we landed in Houston. This made us late for our connection flight to San Diego. We rushed across the airport to another gate, which had already boarded people. Dan sat in a corner, while I went up front to the ticket counter and explained to the lady the situation that Dan needed an aisle and could not place pressure on his foot. After all the passengers became seated, we ultimately boarded. I said to myself, Great; now I will be able to relax for its three hours until we arrive. Dan and I did not eat the entire day except for a bag of pretzels, so it was a treat to buy a package meal for $7.00 each.
We landed and Dan needed to go to the restroom. I headed to the baggage area and along the way I saw a handicapped-accessible bathroom, so we then stopped. This made us late to receive our luggage and it did not show up on the belt, but at least our driver who met us at the airport had a sign that read “Sheryl Malin.” He advised us our luggage might be in the office, for we were last to arrive. Thank goodness, the luggage was there in one piece. This is where the journey begins. While heading to Mexico I called my daughter to let her know we made it.
We crossed the border with no trouble, for you do not need to show any papers at that time--only when you leave Mexico. Approaching the facility, Dan said that it looked the same as on Google. We checked in like you do in most medical facilities, in admitting, and were taken to our room. Quite different than rooms here, it looked similar to a hotel room. It had a couch, a chair, two beds, and a table. I had my very own bathroom.
The physician came in and introduced himself. He asked me questions regarding my condition. We went over some things and he examined me. I must say I was impressed that he did a full work-up, which I had never before received from head to toe. After the EKG and the exam, the doctor explained some findings and stated that someone would be in tomorrow morning for lab work.
When he left; our dinner came. What a treat! We had an organic lamb roast with mixed vegetables and a pitcher of water. We were surprised later when we heard a knock on the door and it was our dessert, an apple and sunflower seeds.
The day is over. I must go to sleep. I'm going to have lab work tomorrow. Also, the doctor is coming in to explain the procedures.
1-13-11
HEADACHE
Today I woke up with a headache and it is now just hitting me. My journey is merely starting regarding the treatment. At 7:00 a.m. someone from the lab department awoke me and took blood.
The chef came in, explaining they would be feeding us organic foods and all day we would have amazing meals. He asked if there is anything we like, and I replied surprise us (HAHAHA).
While I was still feeling sick, a person entered my room, telling me it was time for an X-ray. I was brought down for an ultra sound and although unable to speak Spanish I began using hand signals to relate to the radiologist. We were able to understand one another!
When the doctor found out I was having a headache, he was angry at me for not contacting him. He did not want me to be under any stress. He ordered something for the pain. I advised him I am a baby at heart and have a hard time taking pills. He informed me not to worry; he would give me medication that I would not have to swallow. Within ten minutes the nurse came in with a pill that I placed under my tongue and it dissolved by itself. I must say they are very understanding here,
I asked the physician today if it was all right to do my blog so I can inform people back home and he replied yes. He said we cannot change our situation, but we can change our environment. This is a life changing process. My outcome is great per my doctor.
The doctors are going to start my treatment tomorrow. All my blood tests came back good. They are teaching us about how to keep healthy. Until tomorrow have an amazing night.
WE CAN CHANGE OUR LIFE
Now, this is a good time to close your eyes and imagine with colors how you can change the lives of cancer patients. There are many mixed emotions and moods that follow.
Cancer is a powerful word, but we can change that!! We need to change our environment by our food we eat and the amount of water we drink and the exercise we do. Our body blueprint with the proper vitamins can be controlled.
Think about the last paragraph--wouldn’t that be nice, if we could control our body blueprint? As you read, I will show you proof it can be done. Some of you will eat those words when you see the results of my journey and how I controlled my cancer and managed it.
1-14-11
ANOTHER DAY OF ACTIVITIES
Sorry for the delay in writing my daily journal. A lot has happened today. It was packed with many kinds of interesting activities. The first thing I did was take an overdue hot shower from head to toe. I felt much better and then we had our breakfast, oatmeal with bread. Our drink of the day is water and I am supposed to have seven glasses. Of course, it will be a challenge for me, but I will meet the goal.
The physician arrived around 11:00 am and reviewed the results from my blood work. It looked really good. My liver and kidney functions were healthy. The doctors were concerned with one test that showed lack of oxygen to my heart. The EKG indicated in the past I might have had a small stroke. The cardiologist did an EKG and everything seemed fine. Next to see was the dentist, with my X-rays in hand from the States. This is the most important part of the body that controls what type of illness you may get. I was examined and told that seven metal fillings, my partial, and the four caps all should be replaced. She found three teeth that needed fillings. I always took care of my mouth, visiting the tooth doctor every six months for cleanings. I will bring it to my dentist’s attention on my appointment in late February.
The psychologist came in right before our lunch and spent some time with us. She states I am very positive and have a good outlook. I needed to do exercises with my brain to allow it to understand that I will fight and conquer the cancer. She will come in every week to teach me how to do these exercises.
The most important tools to get back to a sound body begin by eating organic vegetables, along with fruits and nuts. Exercising at least five days a week for an hour is important and can be something fun like dancing, tennis, or just walking.
With those items, I need a healthy mind and belief that I will improve. She listened to Dan and me and said because we are seeking other types of treatments along with our belief system in place, I am going to get better.
The final affair for the day was to insert a port in me for the treatment to begin. I went down to the ER and the last thing I remember was them giving me an IV. I woke up in my room with Dan saying the doctors could not place the port. My body frame was too small. The catheter was too long. They did not want to damage my blood vessels, so the doctor will come up with another way.
I just had a little back pain, which I think is from them trying to put the port in, however; I've been given medicine by IV.
This is an adventure, being in some other country and knowing only English, for I am around all Spanish-speaking nurses and employees. I've been communicating by hand signals and saying thank you. They all have been awesome, putting up with me, the American.
Until Saturday, I am hanging on with more adventure coming my way.
1-15-11
RELAXING DAY
Today actually was a relaxing day. Dan watched football on the internet, the web page www.channelsurfing.net. Since we are in Mexico the games, are broadcast in Spanish and he viewed only the first quarter on TV and the other quarters on the computer.
The doctor came in to explain why they could not put the port in yesterday. My blueprint is unlike any other person’s. My arteries are shaped different and they tried for approximately an hour and were unable to do so. I'll be given another test to see how they are going to place it. Once that is done the doctors will get together and decide the outcome.
Today, I had several IVs with different minerals and vitamins to build my body up, along with six pills. I cannot take medication, for it gets stuck in my throat. They tried to work with me and give me what they had in liquid form. Coming back to the meds, I was able to keep them down and I told my male nurse it’s because of him and that he was cute.
Waiting for my dinner--until tomorrow, everyone have a great evening.
1-16-11
BEEN BLESSED
At this moment, I am relaxing, while taking the different minerals and vitamins they gave me and celebrating another day of life. With the IVs, it’s making me tired and I am sleepy most of the day. I have been blessed for I met a patient that just finished her treatment with the same issue. The only difference is Ana had cancer prior and went through surgery and chemo.
She has inspired me with her stories to educate the public. In that respect, we felt there could be so much we can learn about this disease and conquer it by natural and healthy methods. She left with a whole new life.
Ana shared with me the prayer she wrote; this brought me to my knees. I was so overwhelmed with tears. We are going to make a change, as well as help spread the word regarding other methods of treatment. We are not alone.
Ana showed me in those special moments before she exited how important knowledge is and how precious our lives are. I became very fond of her outlook and enjoyed our talks. She shared so much wisdom, which I will carry within my heart.
I must go--the battery is dying and I need to charge the computer. Until tomorrow…have a wonderful week.
IN MEMORY OF MY DEAR FRIEND ANA
Dear God,
I’m here to ask You to please intervene in my healing process of body, soul, and mind in order for this process to be complete and successful.
I recognize that You are very busy with wars, tragedies, and other conflicts bigger than just a woman with cancer. But I’m sure that the health of the planet is affected by the health of every individual on it. I know that as long as one person is contaminated with this disease and keeps receiving the poison of chemotherapies and radiation, the whole world is contaminated by it. Similarly, if one or more people can be free of cancer, receiving an adequate integral treatment and letting other people know, this will certainly increase the general health of the whole world, in the same way that a few healthy cells in a body can increase the general health of that body.
This is my most humble request, then, that You help me end this disease and eliminate all the cancerous cells in my body. In this way, I can have the opportunity to be entirely healed and be healthy to contribute a little to alleviate the health of this world. I will be healthy like You created me. I will definitely be able, with more strength, to help others heal with your might and support under your name.
I thank You respectfully for Your kind attention. ________________________________________
Written by my friend Ana, inspired by the book Eat, Pray, Love
1-19-11
«·´¨*·.¸¸. CANCER, THERE IS HOPE«·´¨*·.¸¸.
The days are moving fast. Time is not standing still. Yesterday was my birthday and I spent it getting a port placed in my chest. I wanted to say thank you to my family and friends afar for the wonderful wishes; they meant so much to me.
As I lay in bed thinking, with plenty of time, I've been able to express in writing why I decided to do this treatment. I had seen several people in my life die of cancer…my father, aunts, uncles, mother-in-law, other family members and friends. They had surgery and chemo with radiation and I was there to watch the side effects, and it became so overwhelming. As a child, I saw my dad battle this nasty illness and asked myself why?
Now I inherited this disease and knew that I did not want to use traditional methods of treatment, so my husband did research and we found this method. I have a daughter, sisters, and friends and I would like them to realize there are other treatments out there for cancer and that cancer is not a bad word. There is hope. We need to visualize. We can get better without poisons in our bodies.
Today as I start my treatment I honor two of my inspired loved ones who died: my father and my mother-in-law. I wish to take a moment of silence for your special ones that passed away from cancer; a prayer goes out to them.
Tomorrow I will explain the treatment I was given. Until next time, be safe.
1-20-11
ೋღ♥ FIRST DAY OF TREATMENT ♥ღೋ
My days round up into nights. Time does not stop for anyone. Yesterday I had my first treatment of systemic ozonized hyperthermia (SO3 Hyperthermia).
Wow, the procedure lasted approximately two hours and was surely unique. Vera, the person who developed the hyperthermia program, placed two lines from the port in my chest into the machine. There was an in and an out tube. My blood pumped out into the machine and became heated up while being purified. Then the blood entered back into my body. I could see the blood and experience it going inside the tubes. I was amazed at how the blood flowed.
Imagine standing beside my bed and seeing the blood going to a machine and exiting it and re-entering. It was overwhelming, but all I could think of was that I was not experiencing any pain.
During the procedure, I was able to have a conversation with Vera. It was like I had known her for a long while. Similar to an angel, we talked during the whole procedure. She explained that this is similar to a procedure given to heart patients to keep the heart beating while in surgery. She thought one day, why can’t we use this procedure for cancer? So, she developed a way to do it.
Simply imagine you are on the beach and you’re lying out in the bright yellow sun on a blanket with it beating down on you. This is what the procedure felt like. My bed sheets were soaked. After a while I would take a shower.
Dan watched from the other side of the room while my doctor supervised. The doctor’s back was hurting since he just arrived from a mountain climbing trip. A nurse kept track of my vitals and used an EKG machine to track the heart rate. The lab tested my blood a couple of times during this procedure. As I waited for the other procedure, Vera and I continued to talk. I could have talked for hours and hours with her.
It was time for my next procedure, which the doctor put oxygen below through a tube.
Written by my doctors regarding the procedure:
Scientists know that when the cells of the body are exposed to higher than normal temperatures, changes take place inside the cells, and that some of these changes can be harnessed to increase the likely effectiveness of orthomolecular cancer treatments.
The earliest attempts to treat cancer using heat were met with mixed results due in large part to the difficult challenge inherent in regulating the ideal temperature to a specific part of the body while limiting potentially invasive or deleterious effects on other parts of the body. Today, advancements such as the SO3H system provide superior control and precision heat delivery.
Unlike healthy human cells that love oxygen, cancer cells are anaerobic, i.e. cannot live in high oxygen concentrations.
Overexposure to oxygen in tumor cells, also known as the Hypothermic Ozonification, results in over-acidification of the heated cells and a consequent nutrient deficiency in the tumor. Cellular metabolism is destroyed, resulting in apoptosis (cell death) of the tumor cells.
The proprietary SO3 Hyperthermia System in our program has been proven to have phenomenal synergistic effects with the rest of the treatment approach.
I had complications, but it got under control and I am doing fine. I am getting IVs right now to build me up and the doctors are coming in to check on me routinely. Within the next two weeks there will be more procedures.
I am so lucky to be able to explain this choice of treatment to you and share this amazing technology.
I must point out that I am getting several pills to take. If you know me, this is a challenge, for I have a hard time keeping them down, but I am proud of myself for being able to do so. Please pat me on the shoulder!
1-21-11
GOOD MORNING EVERYONE
Good morning everyone.
Yesterday was a blur, and I spent most of the time in bed. I did not feel that great. The doctor came in and gave me something for my stomach. Half the day gone, I got up and was able to eat. I enjoyed the rest of the day.
We spoke about other treatments that they offer and how we should fit them into our program. Dan and I were discussing them and have questions to ask the doctor today. When we get the answers, I will let you know.
I was on IVs all day and tonight they allowed me to walk the halls. It was nice getting out for a change. The lobby on my floor was packed; it looked like someone was having a party. There were balloons of different colors and shapes. Time to go back to the room. One of the things I admire of the facility is they disconnect the IVs for you every day so you are able to take a shower.
Ready for my bath. Just the water beating down on me made me pure. Now I am sitting here waiting to see what today will bring.
Before I leave, I must stress that I have learned so much about this disease. Cancer is in everyone, but is dormant and something triggers it. We acknowledge that chemicals can cause our systems to activate the bad cells.
In order to make our lives better, we need to start within our homes and ban chemicals from everyday life. We can’t alter our environment, but we can change what we do at home!
The first step is to modify and get rid of all the processed foods and eat organic brands. Don't use it if you do not recognize how to spell the ingredients. Pure water is very important and we need to make sure we are drinking enough.
Take control and stop buying cleaning products that have chemicals in them. There are so many natural things to clean with such as vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice. Balance our bodies with the proper vitamins and minerals to keep them healthy.
Studies do show that cancer feeds off sugar and can’t live off heat and oxygen. Open your minds and see what is out there for treatments and not the heavy chemo and radiation that cause illness in our everyday lives.
«·´¨*·.¸¸.♥«·´¨*·.¸¸.♥«·´¨*·.¸¸.♥«·´¨*·.¸¸.♥«·´¨*·.¸¸.♥«·´¨*·.¸¸.♥«·´¨*·.¸¸.♥«·´¨*·.¸¸.♥«·´¨*·.¸¸
Today I woke up in a great mood. My nurse last night was super. I discovered the best way to take my medication is with ice in the water, making it really cold. I find the pills go down faster and without any trouble. I do not swallow them very well, so this goes out to others like me--try it!
«·´¨*·.¸¸.♥
1-22-11
ANOTHER DAY
It is Saturday and I arrived over a week ago, I have wonderful people taking care of me. Today was a fun filled day, the first thing is the nurse came in the room with medication and a cup of ice, to which I added water and drank them down. So far since noon I've had seventeen pills. I can’t believe that I swallowed that many and by the end of the day I had twenty-six of them. They are little ones and not those horse pills!
The lab department came in to take blood for Monday that starts the dendritic cell (DC) therapy.
What is that? You ask. What is this treatment?
Dendritic cell (DC) therapy also called dendritic cell vaccine, is a newly emerging and potent form of immunotherapy used to treat cancer conditions. In case of cancer, dendritic cell therapy is an immunotherapy that harnesses the body's own immune system to fight cancer. The dendritic cell itself is an immune cell whose role is the recognition, processing, and presentation of foreign antigens to the T-cells in the effector arm of the immune system. Although dendritic cells are potent cells, they are not usually present in adequate quantity to allow for a potent immune response. Dendritic cell therapy thus involves the harvesting of blood cells (monocytes or macrophages) from a patient and processing them in the laboratory to produce dendritic cells, which are then given back to a patient in order to allow massive dendritic participation in optimally activating the immune system. Per my doctor, pretend that your white blood cells are your army and the cancer cells are the enemy. They withdraw some of your army, multiply, and then return them to create more to fight the enemy.
The next thing, the psychologist came in for the second time since I was here and we talked alone, just the two of us. We discussed how I felt regarding having cancer. I advised her that I have learned a great deal and how the treatments seem to allow me to manage my disease without poisons entering my body. I told her that I keep busy trying to spread these methods to the public. Our physicians scare us into thinking the only way it can be done is surgery and poisons. We need to educate people on the meaning of cancer. There are natural procedures that can be used. I know that Western medicine is what most doctors learn. They do not recognize any other, but we can change this. Next time she is going to show me exercises to help me with keeping my mind healthy.
Around 2:00 p.m. I was taken to a room, where they have a machine, which I entered for a procedure. This was a sauna and when I was enclosed I looked similar to a turtle. My head stuck out and the rest of my body was inside. The temperature was controlled by the doctor. It got up to 105 degrees. He kept asking me if I was hot and I advised him that I was used to this heat, for I live in Florida. I told him that I did gardening while also mowing grass in the heat. It lasted approximately twenty-five minutes. I was a wet noodle and needed to take a shower.
Today I had more IVs. Dan and I escaped down the elevators. We went to the chapel to pray.
Well, tomorrow is Sunday and if you ask him what he is going to do, it’s going to be watching football. He’s for the Jets. Go, Jets!
Stay tuned for next time, and enjoy an awesome day.
CHEMICALS~CHEMICALS~CHEMICALS
Chemicals, chemicals, chemicals…this is the main thing causing cancer. We the people are destroying ourselves by allowing this to happen…the chemicals that are in our cleaning products, what they are putting on our fruits and vegetables, in processed foods, on our grass, what they feed our cattle…and then after we get this disease, the poison to kill it.
We need to be educated, and realize that this is a money-making thing. Our environmental programs need to be altered so as to create a more long-lasting life. We must make the change!
♥ .¸¸.·*¨`·»CANCER♥ .¸¸.·*¨`·»
WE CAN PREVENT IT FROM CONQUERING US
GOD CREATED US WITH THE BALANCE OF
BODY~ SOUL ~MIND
OUR BODIES WERE NOT CREATED FOR CHEMICALS
TO ENTER OUR BODIES
WE NEED TO BE EDUCATED--GO GREEN
1-26-11
TODAY WAS A SLOW-MOVING MORNING
Today was a slow-moving morning. We had several treatments planned; however, they did not begin until 4:00 p.m. I had dendritic cell (DC) therapy, also called dendritic cell vaccine. The chemist injected serum into my arm while Dan took a picture. The dendritic cell therapy is a newly emerging and potent form of immunotherapy used to treat cancer conditions. In case of cancer, dendritic cell therapy is an immunotherapy that harnesses the body's own immune system to fight cancer. The dendritic cell itself is an immune cell whose role is the recognition, processing, and presentation of foreign antigens to the T-cells in the effector arm of the immune system. Although dendritic cells are potent cells, they are not usually present in adequate quantity to allow for a potent immune response. Dendritic cell therapy thus involves the harvesting of blood cells (monocytes or macrophages) from a patient and processing them in the laboratory to produce dendritic cells, which are given back to a patient to allow massive dendritic participation in optimally activating the immune system.
While waiting for the doctor to come in for another procedure of systemic ozonized hyperthermia (SO3 Hyperthermia), Dan and I decided to walk around the complex. He wanted to show me where the gym was for the doctors and employees. Its building connected to the facility and is on the bottom floor. As we approached it there were several nursing students blocking the hall, so he pointed it out to me. We then strolled to the front of the facility and sat for a short time. It was breezy, the wind was wild, and air was clean and crisp. Looking across the street, we saw a TGI Friday’s, which was modeled on the ones in United States. We talked for few moments and then headed back to the room so he could see the movie Iron Man II! They provide movie videos free, so if you know him, he is going to take advantage of it.
Looking ahead to what tomorrow will bring. Until Thursday, have a wonderful evening.
1-27-11
“LIFE IS THE DANCER AND YOU ARE THE DANCE.”
I started my day by sitting out by the café. It stands between the facility and the doctor’s complex. Looking all around, I enjoyed the birds chirping, the heat of the sun and the wind blowing across my face. I felt how blessed I am for being able to be part of this wonderful world.
Stop and smell the roses. Just close your eyes for a moment and picture being with me sitting out in the café with the wind blowing across your face. What mood are you favoring? As I sit and think, people are walking from building to building. My life is at a standstill. How humble I am that I have the opportunity to be part of these treatments. While I was reading, my doctor stopped by, for he went to my room and I was not there.
“Hello, Sherry,” he said. “This will be a great place to do a consultation,” and he began to speak. I asked him about my future and he replied that he feels with the treatments it looks really good. Then we started talking about the methods I am using. I made the right choice by coming to see them. Both my physicians are very passionate about what they do and will strive to continue to treat and manage this illness. I never met doctors that I could hug and be so close to, until now!
Afterward, I met Dan in the café talking to a man from Texas whose wife also had this disease. He explained how they continued for ten years using natural methods. Similar to me, she decided not to have surgery nor chemo or radiation. We exchanged e-mails and with that we went back to my room for food.
Lunch came and oh what a surprise, spaghetti and lamb. Nevertheless, we enjoyed the taste and the amount. During that time the nurse stated that I would be connected to IVs for the next eight hours. Dan decided to go down stairs and get DVDs to watch.
The doctor came in for his evening visit to give me my schedule of treatment; for now, I have until Wednesday of next week. He assured Dan that the treatments would be completed even if they had to do them on Sunday.
Tomorrow the plans call for dendritic cell therapy (dendritic cell vaccine) along with the sauna with oxygen.
Until Friday, wishing you a wonderful weekend.
1-29-11
MY HEAD WAS SPINNING
Today around 9:00 a.m. the chemist came in to give me the third dendritic cell (DC) vaccine shot. The last will be on Tuesday, one day before I am discharged.
After the shot in the afternoon, the massage therapist came in to give me a complete message for back pain. My doctors said it's because I am lying in bed a great deal.
I rested after the therapy and lay down for a bit. When I got up I felt ill. My head was spinning; I had a stomach ache and a temperature of 101. The nurses checked with the doctors and thought the best thing for me was a cold shower. I was not too pleased with that, for I ended up with my clothes on and I looked at the nurse and thought to myself what if I directed the hose toward her (HAHA). Can you picture how angry I was? My face must have been red with steam coming out of my nose, but it worked. The fever went down.
THINKING IN BED:
“To everything there is a season and a time to every purpose under the heaven.” We live day in and day out following this quote, without realizing it. This is just one of the unknowns. The questions are: Why are we here? What does your travel bring? Do you recognize why you are here? What is your purpose? Do you wander off or dream of a journey? Maybe this is what is in your heart. Perhaps your goal is to someday be reached. Can it happen that before you know it, it comes to pass and you wake up and you’ve fulfilled the purpose of everything that was meant to be?
I trust that all purposes have a character of art attached. You close your eyes and dream, with images showing you what you want to see. The colors and forms show up, which create a scene that comes through from your brain.
The picture that I would like to share is the purpose of educating people on the methods of treatment I had instead of chemo and radiation. “See the difference!” My procedures were a piece of cake compared to those. There are other ways to treat cancer. We just need to be educated. Knowledge is power!
«·´¨*·.¸¸.♥ «·´¨*·.¸¸.♥«·´¨*·.¸¸.♥ «·´¨*·.¸¸.♥«·´¨*·.¸¸«·´¨*·.¸¸.♥
ANOTHER DAY IN BED
Good day.
Today was another day in bed. A fever came upon me, making me very weak. They gave me IVs and took lab work.
I spent the day again lying down and thinking. What is your journey of life? God (a spiritual being) created us with a body, mind, and a soul. Each was given this to use in a pure and special way. This path is what leads you to the final purpose of your journey. By this journey, you create your own masterpiece of art.
Our bodies are made of flesh for seeing our entire selves. The body gives us the ability to walk through our journey of life with color and shapes, which shows the beauty that holds the love of the mind and soul. When the journey ends, the masterpiece that you created will be the art; however, your spirit is going to live forever.
The will, memory, and emotions are components of our mind. This is created through the colors and imaginations through shapes and forms. In using your mind, you take the steps to change evil to good and wrong to right. During this process, you create memory with pictures of art. Through the memory and will, your emotions come out by showing all the purposes under heaven.
Your soul is the spirit within you, which never lies. This part is the spine, your being. This works with the artwork of the mind and creates the path of your journey.
My purpose is to share the art of colors relating to my methods of treatment and how my treatment has affected me. That is my journey!
1-27-11
FORGOT ABOUT FRIDAY
Hello everyone! Time has come and gone and before you know it the week has passed. I forgot to post what happened Friday. I feel it was important enough to share with you. The day started like any other. I met the psychologist in the café. She asked me if I had some free time. I advised her yes, so she came for about forty-five minutes to my room and we talked about an exercise she had that would help me throughout my journey.
Written by the psychologist:
Imagery and relaxation--Have you ever been in a place where you have felt completely at peace? Where you can forget about all of your problems? Where you can breathe in deeply and enjoy a beautiful view?
It is very likely that you have. However, many times it’s very difficult to be in a place like this every time we want to, although it is very healthy to keep our mind in the mental state that this place can evoke.
That’s when imagery and relaxation techniques come in handy. In fact, these techniques do more than just bring our mental state to relaxation; they can actually help us relieve pain, speed healing, and help the body suppress hundreds of ailments, including depression, allergies, and asthma. In addition, letting go of our problems, worries, and concerns for a little while and recharging energy are two other good reasons for practicing this.
Relaxation is being completely at ease, mentally and physically. Imagery is any words that create a picture in the mind; it is the biological connection between the mind and the body. Whatever spontaneous thought or image we get throughout the day is going to affect the way we feel emotionally as well as physically. For example, whenever you imagine your favorite meal--the way it smells, the way it looks, how good it tastes--chances are, you’ve going to salivate.
Unfortunately, many of the images in our heads do more harm than good. We are so used to worrying or thinking of the negative possibilities of situations that we end up tensing the body and depressing the immune system. Obviously, the idea is to use this same power of imagery and relaxation for our own benefit.
Intention, quieting, cleansing, and recharging are the components of healing the state of mind through imagery and relaxation. The intention is key to success. We need to want to relax, believe that it can help, and be willing to turn our senses away from the outside world and into the inner world. We also need to do it in a quiet place so we can focus better and easier.
SAMPLE OF RELAXATION-IMAGERY TECHNQUE:
Begin by closing your eyes…and releasing the air in your lungs. Take in a full, deep breath through your nose, allowing your lungs to fill up completely, letting the air go all the way in…and then sighing it out through your open mouth. Get as comfortable as you can…do a body scan through feet, legs, hips, abdomen, and torso; release all of the tension… breathe in deeply, through your nose and exhale through your mouth. Do a scan through your arms, hands, chest, shoulders, face, and head; release the tension and relax. Remember to breathe in deeply through your nose, and as you exhale, feel more and more relaxed. Do this as many times as you need to in order to become completely relaxed. Focus on your thoughts…identify your mood and imagine a beautiful place. Look at the details, the colors, the smell, the texture…admire this place…enjoy it.
Breathe in deeply and exhale through your mouth…with every breath, inhale positive energy, and as you exhale, spread this positive energy throughout your body. Let this beautiful place be the source of positive healing energy. Spread this healing energy through your entire body. Give yourself permission to be relaxed…to enjoy this place. Stay there until you have filled your body with positive, healing energy. Remember to breathe deeply through your nose and exhale through your mouth. When you are ready, come back to the present; take a deep breath open your eyes.
DON’T FORGET TO
PUT THIS INTO PRACTICE
THE MORE YOU DO IT THE EASIER IT WILL BECOME, AND THE RESULTS WILL ALSO GET BETTER.
THE MOST EFFECTIVE IMAGES ARE THE ONES THAT HAVE SOME MEANING
TO YOU.
WHEN BATTLING TUMORS, PEOPLE MIGHT IMAGINE THAT THEIR HEALTHY CELLS ARE STRONG, OR HEALTHY SOLDIERS GETTING RID OF ALL THE CANCEROUS CELLS.
BE PATIENT AND CONSISTENT.
After she left, I started my sauna treatment which looks like a turtle shell with oxygen. I was in it for approximately twenty-five minutes. I went back to my room where I found Dan and the nutritionist going over what to eat and not. We learned a lot about this disease and the education we are bringing back I truly believe will help others.
CANCER FEEDS OFF SUGAR, AND DAIRY PRODUCTS.
Those are the items I need to stay away from, plus the microwave oven.
I only have a couple more days here and two procedures which are powerful treatments to fight the bad within me. Before I leave, I'll receive information that I will need in order follow through on my journey to conquer this disease. When I return back to the States I will share them with you. REMEMBER THERE IS HOPE WITHOUT POISON.
2-2-11
Hello, it’s my last day and so many thoughts are running through my mind. I've met wonderful people as well as my doctors. They are so passionate and loving and I will treasure them forever.
The experience was overwhelming; it affected me in a positive way for my body, soul, and mind. The program made me whole again.
I will explain in the coming days my home program. I am going to continue my journal and provide more information until I can say that I am cancer-free.
Today I get my port taken out and I’m excited to experience less pressure in that location.
2-3-11 to 2-5-11
«·´¨*·.¸¸.♥HOME SWEET HOME♥.¸¸. ·*¨`·»
This morning I woke up in a different light. Today is my last day in Mexico. I will be saying farewell to my doctors. Can you picture the release of pressure in my words? The doctor arrived in the room at 6:00 a.m. and took out the port. I am worried; I did not know what to expect. It came and went, and I did not experience anything but force. Dan and I ate a great breakfast of pancakes and off we went.
I am full of mixed emotions at this point. I am leaving the physicians and my safety net, and going home. It sounds funny, but I felt safe, for with the surety of their words I became comforted and had a good feeling about what I had decided. I said goodbye to the nurses and the doctors. I hugged them and went to the lobby.
The driver who took Dan and me back to San Diego speaks English and we had several conversations while waiting to cross the border. He explained that there are many people living in Mexico and working in the USA, for it's cheaper to live in Mexico. He gives us an example: a four-bedroom place with a swimming pool, gated, cost $500 a month. It could look just similar to Michael Jackson’s house from the States, he said (HAHAHA). The electric bills are much lower, but the cable bill is around the same. He also mentioned that he finds it funny that Mexicans wish to get American produce, for it is cleaner, and the Americans want the Mexican vegetables and fruits.
Leaving Mexico seemed harder than entering, for we waited in this long line at the border. When we finally arrived, a policeman wanted us to get out and check our bags. Per our driver, "She just got out of the medical facility." Dan was not able to walk for he had a cast on his right foot. He asked for our passports and left. It seemed like hours, but it was only twenty minutes until he came back and said, “Okay, you may go!”
Well, off to the airport--the attendant behind the counter took my tickets and stated they had cancelled the flight. What? Our connecting flight to Houston ended up cancelled due to the weather. She advised me of an ice storm coming. We decided to go as far as Houston and take our chances. The airport looked deserted, hardly anyone there, for they sent everyone home. We began looking for a ticket booth to ask about the flights. We were given a free voucher for a hotel, for Dan was handicapped. We picked up our luggage and waited for a shuttle. The day would be long and stressful. What a day! The colors of stress were showing through, and at that point we needed to calm down and relax.
For dinner, we had sandwiches made by the chef from the facility. All organic and delicious. After eating we saw a lounge, so we went for a glass of wine. It did the trick; now I am relaxed. «·´¨*·.¸¸.♥
Rise and shine; a new day. We went for breakfast and the only thing allowed on my diet was oatmeal. I ate it, with a cup of coffee. The next step: we took a shuttle back to the airport. This would be another all-day event. The day was challenging, for I watched what I could eat. There are not too many places, especially at airports that have organic food.
«·´¨*·.¸¸.♥
Finally, Dan and I arrived in Tampa. We experienced a wonderful surprise on the other side of the gate--my sister Linda and my nephew, who offered to pick us up from the airport.
«·´¨*·.¸¸.♥ HOME SWEET HOME
Linda bought special goodies (foods) that I was able to eat. I am thankful to have such a special sister and friend.
My journey's first chapter has been completed. I just started the second part of the journey and feel really good about it. With all of the thoughts and prayers from my followers I have been able to relax and enjoy GOD’S hands around me.
2-6-11
STARVING CANCER
FOODS
IN GENERAL THE DIET RECOMMENDED AT HOME IS AIMED AT STARVING CANCER AND IS VERY LOW IN SUGAR, INCLUDING BREADS, GRAINS, AND
FRUITS. IT CONSISTS OF BOTH, COOKED AND RAW VEGETABLES, HIGH- QUALITY PROTEIN FISH, SOME BEANS, NUTS AND SEEDS. ALSO INCLUDED IS A SMALL AMOUNT OF GLUTEN-FREE GRAINS, ALL ORGANIC.
NOTE REGARDING SUGARS: ALL PROCESSED FOODS ARE CONSIDERED
SUGAR TO THE BODY. THE IDEAL CANCER PREVENTION DIET EXCLUDES THEM.
It’s not that bad, I look at it as art (colors). Just imagine adding them with the smells together and creating a masterpiece. In some sense, I now can create a dish and use my creative mind at the same time.
2-7-11
MY NEW PATH
~~~~~~Give yourself every chance~~~~~~
IT'S NEVER TOO LATE: We are totally different, there will never be another you, and so make sure you live your life to the fullest. Yesterday’s actions are history; you cannot change them, but remember, there is always today. You can still reach for your dreams! Give yourself every chance, make use of your assets, stretch out with your soul, follow your heart, and go with your gut.
2012 - DAN'S JOURNEY THROUGH FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE
9-22-12
BY DAN MALIN
I have to admit this is not something I thought I would ever be doing, but here I am blogging like my wife Sherry has been for the past two years. I had no idea it would only make sense, considering that she has reached out to the people of the world about her illness and what she went through--why not one for the guys out there, since I found out I have prostate cancer. In case you did not notice from previous writings, I am the husband of the renowned blogger and my name is Dan. I will start off in my writings with what my mother-in-law stated to me about a year ago, when I turned sixty. She said, “Dan it’s only now going to get better for you. Time will be your friend and you may begin to enjoy what we call the Golden Years.” Ah, yes--I can't wait I wish to share a little poem about that, since I'm living them and experiencing what to expect. I hope you relish my thoughts about the Golden Years until my next post!
The Golden years are here at last.
I cannot see
I cannot pee
I cannot chew
My memory shrinks
My hearing stinks
No sense of smell
I look like hell
YES, the Golden Years have come, and now only time will tell.
10-1-12
BY DAN MALIN
It’s a new Month…it’s October. Where has, the year gone? Hello, everyone--I thought this time around I will begin where my cancer journey started. Exactly after going through approximately two years of ups and downs with my wife and her fight with breast cancer, we decided to take a trip to the Big Apple to deliver our daughter's stuff, which we had been keeping since she graduated from college. It was to be a longer jaunt than usual, for we were dragging a trailer and driving back roads all the way from where we live in Florida. This was the relief we needed--just to get away, because finally we got what we prayed for: NO MORE CANCER. All tests proved it had departed, so we said let’s go. Prior to leaving I had visited my doctor for my normal blood work, for I have heart disease. While we were on the road, I received a call on my cell phone from my primary care physician that my PSA level was 5.8 and the normal is 4 and under. At that time, he suggested that I consult an urologist for an additional test. This bothered me the whole way, but I tried to file it in the back of my mind, for I could not do anything. I came to a decision to make the best of the trip, and when I got back I would figure out what to do. Sherry has shared our travels in other posts; please check out the enjoyment that we experienced up north with our daughter as well as with other relatives.
I returned home with worry and stress, wondering what would happen. Sherry and I had celebrated our thirty-year anniversary and with her managing the cancer…we were overjoyed, and now it was me…what more could go wrong?
The minute I returned, I scheduled an appointment to see an urologist. It would be on August 23rd, the day in my life that seemed like it never ended. We waited in the lobby for more than half an hour, with heaviness on my mind. Finely I got called to meet the doctor. As I was being examined, I told him about pains on my left side near the groin region. After his exam, he advised me that I suffer from two hernias, one on the left and the other on the right. The final result was to make sure I had no prostate cancer, so I would need a biopsy. Now it was important to choose either this, or get my hernias repaired. I had more stress over the fact that I might have cancer, so I chose to undergo the biopsy. We went to the checkout counter and scheduled the procedure for September 5th. While I waited for the magical day, I also had another issue to attend with the hernias. If any of you ever had a hernia, you know how painful it can be. Sherry and I did some research on the internet regarding support products. We were told that there was a truss that would give support until I received surgery. That Monday, we drove to a medical supply store and spoke to a representative, explaining the situation. She walked us to the truss display and stated we would need a double one.
Wow, the one that I got was lightweight, with a double-layer elastic waistband, fully-ventilated pocket for a pad, flannel leg straps, and it adjusted up, down and sideways. How uncomfortable it is! I never ever thought I would go through this, and waited to get a biopsy to see if I had cancer.
Until the next post about what went down during the biopsy and the results, I am enjoying my golden years.
10-2-12
BIOPSY AND RESULTS
BY DANIEL MALIN
Before I start with my situation, I want to remind you that it’s October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month. I cannot express enough to do your homework and research. It’s not your doctor’s option, but yours. Do you want to be cut, burned, or poisoned with chemo, or do you want to do something less invasive? Either way it will cost you, with coverage or not. Insurance usually does not cover all of the procedures. I am glad my wife and I chose the direction we did.
First of all, I wish to say that I am recovering from a hernia procedure and was unable to blog until now. Since it's now football season, I am going to compare my life and my condition to a game, and at this time I have made it to the first down. The second one is the day that I had my biopsy. It was not that long until they called me back and the physician prepared me for the procedure in his office. He gave me a local and started the nightmare. If anyone ever had a prostate biopsy, you know that it's not something that you look forward to having.
Well, I did not think it would ever end, but the doctor took twelve tissue samples, and then said he was finished. The nurse came in and stood me up--the room was moving and I was feeling as if I was going to pass out. She helped me back to the seat and got a cold cloth to put on my forehead and gave me a cup of water. The doctor stuck his head back in the room to say that sometimes this happens and I could stay until I felt comfortable in leaving; but, the office would close in twenty minutes. Sherry came in the room and asked for Coke to give me a sugar rush, which would help me not to be so spacey. It did the trick; I was ready to go home.
We made another appointment a week later for the results. It was as if I went a couple of yards, and then the third down! This time we waited twenty minutes before I was taken back. The physician came in the room with his computer and said, “You are here for the findings of your biopsy?” YES! Well, he came right out and stated that I have prostate cancer. “You know all my patients have this shocked expression on their face when I tell them this, but I always let them know the procedures and percentages of what can be done he said. This was not new to Sherry and me, for two years ago, we went through this with her. He proceeded to go on with the options and stated that two out of the twelve samples were cancerous. He gave us information and he would see me back within two weeks. I looked at the info and it was cut, burn, and chemo--not what I wanted. I called Sherry’s doctor in Mexico, Dr. Perez, and he spent time on the phone explaining the different procedures that were there and the best option for me. It’s similar to the one Sherry had using her own cells. The steps before going to Mexico will involve current blood work for them to review before treatment begins.
Meanwhile, I had my left hernia repaired last Thursday using the good old American way. I had to go to another doctor, for my family one and the urologist couldn't treat me for this condition. The next step was a general surgeon. The big day is finally over and healing is starting. He could not do laparoscopic surgery; he had to cut me open. The stitch mark is three inches long. It’s been a slow recovery. The tackle was a hard hit, but I'm going to get back up to fight for a touchdown.
My plans are that once my hernia repair heals I will be going to Mexico for the final play the touchdown. Right now, I am going to continue with my struggle with the journey to completion.
10-12-12
PROSTATE SMORGASBORD
BY DANIEL MALIN
As you are sitting here looking at the title, maybe you are thinking to yourself, “Wow are they going to serve this the next time I go to Wilson’s Cafeteria? Not too appetizing, for sure.” Well I am merely trying to bring in a little humor the best I can considering I have cancer of the prostate and I was offered lots of options to choose from for treatment when the doctor told me what I am now faced with. I said, “Somewhat like a smorgasbord, huh Doc.” I know from my own wife who had this disease that the attitude is key and I know it needs to be positive, so I wish to turn to a light note and add humor as my method of mentality. Please note here when she “had” cancer--it's now in the past tense. With this writing I, will lightly refer what and how I came to my decision to treat my disease. You may know of the options men consider in this situation, but again I will touch on these plus the complications one may face when making these choices. Let’s begin by saying I have all of them available because I am lucky; I caught it early because I had my PSA tests every year--so guys get in there and get them done…it's only a blood test.
I will begin with the old-fashioned method first, which has been used for a long time, and that is…ouch, castration. Yup, that will certainly solve the problem. OKAY, I am not ready for that one. Another was prostatectomy, which removes the prostate--of course the surgeons love this one. The complications here could be impotence, urinary incontinence, bowel complications, and narrowing of the urethra, and you may need a catheter. This one many may choose because it rids the body of the cancerous organ and cuts it right out, goodbye …YUP, hopefully. The following one is radiation therapy. The idea here is to kill the cancer cells and hopefully not kill the good ones; let’s hope here that the doc is a good shot. There are different ways to implement these—some are better than others, and it depends on your stage. One can be an external beam or an internal beam by seeding; this works basically with small seeds planted in the prostate which have radiation in them. There are others with the use of the radiation. This may cause skin reactions, upset stomach, diarrhea, rectal bleeding and bowel function issues. Cryotherapy is another way, and is done by freezing the tumor, then allowing it to thaw, then refreezing it again. This method can kill both bad cells and good cells; this may either cause incontinence or impotence, or both.
One that I gave thought more of is Hi-Fu, but it is not FDA-approved and is performed outside of the US. It's a high heat ultrasound energy targeted to focal points of the gland at 195 degrees. The side effects are less and results appear to be very good and it has been practiced now for ten years. The machine is produced in America, however; it cannot be done here…go figure. The procedure is approved in thirty countries, but of course the FDA is still testing it. Thank you, FDA! The one I chose is called prostate immune therapy--it's basically using your own dendritic cells that are removed from your body. The cells are multiplied and returned to you so as to have your own immune system to combat the disease. This is being done for me in Mexico and is similar to what Sherry had done. The side effects she had were nothing except a flu like fever when she had her hyperthermia before the cell injections. This procedure is done in the US, but here you have to apply for it and be either stage 4 or 5 and already been through the mill with other treatments, which also includes chemo, which I didn't mention earlier. I need to laugh about how they work these treatments in the US. The best ones with the fewest side effects, we as citizens are not allowed to have unless we pay the price physically, financially or both. The choice I made has been based on my wife having her treatment and seeing the results. This, plus my physical condition; I had eight heart stents prior due to heart disease…and quality of life, which I viewed as being key for me. I will soon be going to Mexico to start my treatments and will be writing about them as I receive them, so keep reading. Just remember--knowledge is key here to make your choice if ever you need to. Till another day--take care.
10-17-12
HERE WE ARE AT THE MEDICAL FACILITY IN MEXICO
BY DANIEL MALIN
Today we arrived at the facility, for I am going to start my cancer treatment. I will be having the same type of procedures Sherry received two years ago, we know this works, for she has managed this disease.
This was a long six-hour flight from Orlando to San Francisco, where we had a three-hour layover before we transferred to our plane to fly to San Diego. Nevertheless, we are exhausted from the running around and stress. While waiting, we ate at a sushi bar; I was surprised, for this is the first time I ever experienced that in an airport. The driver met us there and we are on our way to receive two weeks of treatments.
This was interesting to me; every time we cross the border, something random happens. This time we had to get out of the van and Sherry was told to press this
button to see if it would turn green or red. If this turned red they would have checked our bags, but it turned green so I guess that meant good luck.
After waiting a while, we finally arrived at facility. We felt as if we had never left the first time. Everyone remembered who we were, but asked if Sherry was the patient. I said, “OH NO, it’s me this time. You did an awesome job on her so we figure it’s my turn now. HAHAHA.”
We were brought up to our room and greeted by different nurses who asked many questions, and then we ate a wonderful organic fish dinner. After a nurse came back in for my vitals, we were allowed to rest while enjoying hot tea.
Until tomorrow night.
10-18-12
FIRST FULL DAY
Follow Dan through his journey of managing his prostate cancer:
The morning began early with pricks to the arm--blood work at 7:00 a.m., followed by his vitals. This began the first day. We met one of my doctors that will be treating him and following up with us at 9:00 a.m. He did a full complete exam and stated that a cardiologist and an internal physician would visit later. Meanwhile we took a stroll around the grounds. Dan and I went up to the fourth floor where my room had been two years ago, we were surprised there weren’t any nurses that we could recognize. After the disappointment, we walked to the café where we had peppermint tea and I ended up doing word find while Dan read a book about Superman, the actor Christopher Reeves.
Hours were slipping away. Before long it was lunch time, and we received soup and fish. Daniel the chef constantly adds color to the dish with the vegetables. Time for the Yankees game--since we were in Mexico, none of the channels were playing the games, so to the computer we went. I took a nap while Dan watched the Yankees lose. Oh, well--there is always next year. I guess Dan will be rooting for the Detroit Tigers now. GO DETROIT.
It’s starting to get dark, and night is falling. Oh, wait they are bringing in our dinner--chicken. I will have to stop so I can eat--so until later.
By the way, tomorrow will be more eventful, for they will probably put in Dan’s port to start giving him some vitamins and minerals and doing the hyperthermia.
10-19-12
EARLY BIRD ON THIRD DAY
Today, Dan woke up very early, around 5:30 a.m. A nurse came in to prep him for his port. It was 7:30 a.m. when Dan went down in a wheelchair to the emergency room to get started for treatment. He gave me a kiss and off he went.
While prepped with a local to put him in twilight zone, the doctor asked if he felt sleepy. Dan said no, so he received another dose to make him sleep. Before you know it, he ended back in his room, which he was then geared up for a shower. But wait--before he got cleaned up, what about breakfast? Before long it was delivered to our room: an omelet with tomato sauce along with carrots, zucchini, and goat cheese. YUMMY. We were fixed to eat and it tasted equal to a four-star hotel. Coffee and papaya had been added as extra features.
Shower time and then Dan went to the tooth doctor for an exam to see if there were any infections or problems. He got a full exam with X-rays. Dan never knew that he had a hidden molar. He also had fillings that were metal, and the dentist seemed worried considering all the mercury. He went over the quote and defects that had to be repaired. Well, we will have to leave that for another occasion.
Now it’s 2:00 p.m. and time for lunch--when Dan and I got to our room what a surprise…ribs with a salad. We were finished before you could say “Mmmm, good.”\
This day is going fairly quickly; before long Dan will be getting more IVs to detoxify and strengthen his immune system before he gets other treatments. They consist of high density liquid Vitamin C, glutathione, and selenium.
Until tomorrow, when Dan receives ozone treatment—the fun cannot wait. HAHAHA
10-20-12
GLOOMY AND LAZY DAY
FOURTH DAY
Today the weather turned out to be gloomy--no sun. Our breakfast came around 8:00, and what a surprise, waffles with fruit and some kind of almond butter spread. After that Dan took a warm shower, to wake him up and get ready for the day. Then he had the nurse come in to clean his port and redress it.
As the morning began we decided to go for a walk near the café and get hot tea. We sit outside and read below the sun, but today we ended up in the café due to the weather being cold. After a while we went back up to the room to eat lunch. It was a Caesar salad with chicken.
In the beginning of the afternoon we meditated. Here is what we were listening to: http://youtu.be/AfykeUc1of4.
While we were meditating, the psychologist came in to speak to Dan regarding positive mental attitude and how to manage his stress levels. She gave us good advice about how we can live in the future with issues due to our conditions. We had given her an earful about what we learned throughout the year about how to manage ourselves from the chemicals and how the health care industry is handling the whole cancer thing. The session was an hour long when all was said and done.
When she left, I asked Dan if he wanted to walk across the street, for there were a movie theater and stores. We decided to stroll on the sidewalk for a block or two and then come back to see what was playing. Of course, it was in Spanish!
Once we went back up to the room, the nurse came in to hook him up to more vitamins and minerals. This took half an hour, and then it was time for him to receive his ozone treatments (he will have five in all). This procedure started with the doctor putting pure oxygen in a syringe that was mixed for fifteen minutes with some of Dan’s blood from the port and syringed back into him. You see, cancer does not like oxygen.
Well, it’s time for dinner and I am hungry. Tomorrow is another day and more IVs.
BYE
10-21-12
FIFTH DAY AT THE MEDICAL FACILITY
FOOTBALL SUNDAY
Today Dan started his day with IVs and Football. GO BUCS!!!
I am giving my fingers a rest from typing… HAHAHA.
Tomorrow starts the hyperthermia; stay tuned for more info.
10-22-12
A HEAVY KIND OF DAY
SIXTH DAY
Hello to my readers. Today started out with IVs, and then breakfast. Daniel the chef whipped up scrambled eggs with mango on the side. Oh, and of course we had coffee. I do not know if I have mentioned in the previous posts that all the food is organic.
After a while the doctor came in to tell me Dan’s schedule of treatments that he would be having today. He was going to have another treatment of ozone and the biochemist was coming to take blood for use in the prostate immunotherapy. In the evening after dinner he was scheduled for a sauna treatment. In between this there was time to rest.
We rented movies from the front office--of course they are free. He picked Rango the Lizard with Johnny Depp and I chose Plan B with Jennifer Lopez. Tonight, we will be busy watching them.
Dan just got back from treatment and he might say it let out a lot of steam. Until tomorrow. He is for sure having the hyperthermia at around 11:00 a.m.
10-23-12
A DISAPPOINTING DAY
SEVENTH DAY
Today started out similar to any other day. We ate breakfast around 8:00 am. which consisted of oatmeal and fruit (apples, pears, strawberries). To wake us up, we also received coffee.
Dan was wheeled to some other room for the hyperthermia, and while getting ready and prepared to start, nine minutes through he wasn’t responding due to his ticker issues. The tests that were given to him for the heart problem seemed fine until the day of the treatment. They had to abort the procedure, for the doctor stated that his heart health is more important. They will be trying another procedure to heat up the blood.
Right now, he is eating lunch and having more IVs. The doc states that tomorrow will start the first injection of cells. I'll keep you informed about his condition and treatments.
Until then, stop and smell the roses.
10-24-12
BUSY DAY AHEAD
DAY 8
Since it was a busy day I don't have much time to write because Dan is being transferred from room to room for different types of treatment. The morning started with a warm shower, and of course the nurse walked in to clean around the port.
Oh, yeah--I do need to brag more about our food. Breakfast came and so did Daniel. He is not merely the chef, but he also is a great guy. He suggested for us to take a day and he will show Dan and me the beach and other little towns nearby on the weekend and do Mexican sightseeing. Cool! Thanks, Daniel
10-25-12
DAN’S BIRTHDAY
DAY 9
Breakfast was served at 8:00 a.m., and by then we were ready for a cup of coffee to wake up and start the day. The bio-chemist came in to continue his prostate immunotherapy.
Afterward, the doctor arrived with the schedule for the next couple of days. This meant that Dan would be on IVs for half the day. While he received more IVs, lunch came, and of course he was prepared to eat. Following, we were going to take a nap, but there was a knock on the door. The chef and his staff walked in with a big surprise--a birthday dessert with a candle. Daniel lit it and the staff sang Happy Birthday in Spanish.
The day was half over when we received calls on Skype from my family, wishing him a happy birthday.
It is now football Thursday and the Bucs, my home team, will be playing. The computer is ready on the program to watch the game. If you know Dan, he loves sports also; on the facility’s TV I had the World Series on in Spanish. The Giants won game 2 and my Bucs won; this was a great day.
Tomorrow is another day; it will be light. We might venture out and see some of the sights.
Describe your image.
Describe your image.
Describe your image.
Describe your image.
Describe your image.
10-26-12
OZONE KIND OF DAY
DAY 10
Well, today was another day, with ozone treatment and more IVs. The morning started out with a cup of coffee to wake us up and then I went on the computer to check my e-mail and the news around the world.
Just because I am in Mexico does not mean that I am isolated from the rest of the universe. I watched CNN from Europe in English and Spanish.
I met another patient that is being treated here from the States, and we related our stories. It’s interesting to discover how others decided to choose the same type of treatment that I and Dan have been doing.
Now we are getting ready for dinner and settling in for the night. No pain, and Dan felt great today. We escaped for a while and took a long walk around the region. The weather was rather nice, with the sun shining and the wind blowing…it couldn't have been a nicer day. One thing is for sure; the treatments Dan received so far certainly beat the chemo and radiation concepts I have heard others talk about.
Until the sun rises--enjoy the night.
Describe your image.
Describe your image.
Describe your image.
Describe your image.
Describe your image.
Describe your image.
10-27-12
DAN IS WAITING ON A FEVER
DAY 11
Today was an interesting one in a way. We started the day with a great breakfast of fruit, oatmeal, raisin toast, and a hot cup of organic coffee. Dan hopped in the shower and out for a bunch of IV bags of vitamins and trace minerals. These of course are to jump start the immune system.
Along with the two and a half hours of IVs, the girl showed up with the cells for PROSTACIT prostate immunotherapy, plus an injection to give Dan for a chemically induced fever. The fever is used as kicker, so to speak, for the cells. Of course, he was not able to acquire the normal method of hyperthermia like I had, so he was given this other alternative by way of a shot. Dan received it and awaited the day to receive the fever.
Today it's the first time I can think of that Dan sat around and kept saying to himself, “Come on, fever...come on, fever!” But by the end of the day, no fever…hmmm… The doctor came in tonight and said that they do not know when it might take place and it could react the next day. But on the other hand, the good news is that Dan’s immune system is so strong that it just fought the fever off. Oh well--he is instantly looking forward to another fever. Also, he jumped into what I call the turtle, because it looks similar to one…it’s the sauna used to release the toxins…anyhow, here comes dinner, so I need to go till the next time.
Goodbye, and hope your evening is pleasant.
10-28-12
THANK YOU, DANIEL,
DAY 12
I would like to thank Daniel the chef at the medical facility for a wonderful day in Mexico. We started out at 9:00 a.m. and finished around 3:00 p.m. An adventure away from the treatments! We had a great time.
10-29-12
Today ended up as a big blur…several things happened, but first a hot cup of coffee and breakfast. I took more pictures to describe the treatments that Dan received. Besides those he also had ozone, plus IVs, which made him tired. He had a headache so he was given pain medicine and went to sleep.
Tomorrow is another day and will be the last one for procedures.
Take care until the stars shine bright and the sun appears
10-30-12
DAN’S FINAL DAY OF TREATMENT
DAY 14
Today was a somewhat of lazy day. Kicked off my shoes and just relaxed for Dan’s last ozone treatment. We have been sharing his experiences with you for the past two weeks to show that this type of procedure is painless and he has been keeping up his appetite. We cannot imagine having surgery or chemo the old conventional way.
We need to open up our minds and realize that there are treatments out there that will manage cancer and keep your system healthy. Check out the movies and pictures throughout these last two weeks and see the difference of what functional medicine can do, as well as visualizing the region that surrounds us.
Dr. is coming in a little later to give Dan his home program. We have made good friends here and will treasure the time we spent with them.
I’ll be going; we are watching scary movies for Halloween. So, take care until tomorrow.
11-2-12
STROLLING ALONG ON THE BEACH
LAST DAYS IN MEXICO
On our last day in Mexico, since Dan’s treatments are finished we decided to go to the beach here to explore the waves and the seagulls.
We were able to meet up with our new friends, Vera and her husband. We spent the whole day while enjoying each other's company. It's strange how one's journey intertwines with others and how they are there when you need them, she was the one that I needed at the time when I looked for guidance through my treatments. I call her my earth angel.
On the morning of the meeting with Dr. Perez to go over Dan’s home program, Dan and I went for stroll along the pier at Rosarito Beach. I understand from the locals in that location that they have seen well-known American movie stars. It was simply breathtaking.
On to the facility for one last time before we cross the border. We took a taxi. Once we got to our destination, we were off to the doctor’s office, and of course exactly like the States, you have to wait. The doctor explained Dan’s home program to him. The reason we chose this treatment is that Dr. Perez designs a home program for your conditions. The program was designed not only to take care of his prostate cancer, but also his heart issues. This was modeled just for him… I'll post in later days…this is where Dan’s journey will begin and the healing process of his body.
First, breakfast and off to the border. We left the medical facility at 1:30 p.m. and ended waiting at the border for two hours. Finally, we made it to the USA around 4:00 p.m. It's always a trip when crossing--you never know what to expect. This time it went smoothly! We ended up taking the Greyhound bus to take us to a friend’s place in Long Beach and enjoying a couple of days with them…a little R&R period.
Until next time.
FINAL WORDS
First and foremost, Dan and I have given hope that there are other ways to treat cancer without surgery, chemo, and radiation. We are living proof of doing treatment outside the box (FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE), and we have managed our cancer. We decided to keep a journal of our journey through the diagnosis cancer until the end, however it turns out.
At first, we did not know what the outcome would be, so we also took a chance on day by day postings. We wanted to give others a way to relate to cancer and also live a happier life. Through this journey, we have been very honest and true to our decision and life choice that we have made. When I was diagnosed with breast cancer six years ago, I was scared and felt all alone. I had to do a lot of research, along with my husband. Throughout the years, we gathered all of what we have found out with the help of the internet. There is a big universe out there, and we are a tiny place; there is just a small amount of treatment that is being done with functional medicine in the USA.
Whatever type of treatment you choose, the choice should be yours and no one else’s. We live only once and should make the most of it. Choose wisely and do your research--for knowledge is power, and you deserve the quality of life.
Believe in yourself to make the final decision, and stick with it to the end.0
Humanity of The Human Heart
Through Dying I Had Life
As a small child, I can remember my first encounter with this terrible disease called cancer. Although, I did not understand why my Aunt was going through pain, I was told she had cancer. One day she was with us and the next I was at this funeral home reaching down to give her my last kiss. The experience was so cold and I will never forget that day. Time past and then another Aunt passed, which experienced the same pain. Through dying I had life.
When I was diagnosed six years ago, with breast cancer, I was reminded of the experiences that I endured in the past. All my family members had surgery, chemo and radiation and still died. Why would I choose this way, I did not want to go through all this suffering? I wanted to live a quality of life, even if it meant a year or two. Maybe I was a coward, but why would anyone today put themselves through all that pain and suffering. Through dying I had life.
Going back, this disease hit even closer to home. I remember the first-time cancer affected me, it was one day in school. I made 2nd honors and was very proud, until my teacher handed out report cards. She called everyone’s name, until it came to mine. Sherry, sorry I cannot give you your report card for your father has not paid your tuition. Not understanding this I was able to call my mom and I still can picture this in my mind, I cried and told her they would not give me my report card. That day she came down to find out why. My father always paid in the beginning of the month, but cancer struck and tuition was something that was not first on my parent’s mind. Happy to say, I finely got my report card, but was embarrassed in class because of cancer. Through dying I had life.
For about three years I watched my father go through surgery, chemo and radiation. The suffering was unbearable, no child should have to experience a parent slowly die. Through dying I had life.
On my sixteenth birthday, my father was being operated on his brain. I can still picture going to see him the day after and him and my mom gave me my birthday gift together. This was a family tradition, a sweet sixteen ring. My last gift from my father before he passed away. My birthday was in January and he left us in September. Through dying I had life.
It’s still all a blur to me. This affected me and my family in so many ways. When I was in high school, the tuition was too much for my mother to pay the total amount for three children. In order to complete my school years with my friends, I had to work around the school for half of the tuition. During this time of my life it was very difficult, for how to explain to my friends not only the cancer that my father was enduring, but how it was affecting his mind. Through dying I had life.
You see, the cancer went to his brain, which changed his personality. He thought he was someone else. I had to search within myself for I was raised Catholic and when my father thought he could change the world by rewriting the bible, picking up hitchhikers, and buying land to build his church. This was too much for our family to take, so how would my friends understand. At this time, I lost friends for they did not know how to handle what I was going through. The pain of what my father was going through was more than cancer, it destroyed him. My father passed on September 16th on my younger sister’s 8th birthday. Through dying I had life.
After living through high school, a year later, I lost two more Uncles to this terrible disease. Years later I met Dan my husband and it seemed all the pain that I experienced went away. We became a family with a daughter, enjoying life and not thinking of the past. Then it hit again, my mother in law was diagnosed with cancer. The memories came back for watching my mother in law go through the same procedures which led to death. Through dying I had life.
This time I was the mother and had to explain the death to my four-year-old daughter. I did not want her to have the same experience that I went through, so I explained the death like sleeping beauty with all the flowers that surrounded her. That Christmas, my mother in law had saved money up for her grand kids. She had passed away on September, the same day the 16th on a Monday as my father did seventeen years ago, that Christmas she knew my daughter wanted a doll house. Christmas day there was a doll house under the tree. We explained that Grandma delivered it from Heaven. Through dying I had life.
Since then I have lost cousins, Aunts, Uncles from cancer doing surgery, chemo and radiation. Through dying I had life.
Coming back to me and when I was diagnosed with cancer, why would I go through more pain and suffering. It did not work for them and the quality of life that they endured was unbearable. This is why Dan and I explored the possibility of other methods that were not so invasive. We found it and I have lived longer and healthier than others that had cancer in my family. I learned that first you have to do a life change for there was a reason why I was struck with cancer. Through dying I had life.
Again, two years later from when I was diagnosed with cancer Dan my husband was told he had prostate cancer. We did not have to think, we know what our decision would be. He went for the same treatments as I did. Through dying I had life.
Today, we are healthy and have managed our cancer without surgery, chemo or radiation. Dan and I are so humble that we broke the cycle and learned other methods to treat cancer without the conventional way that killed our family member’s. This is why I am so passionate on educating others on the methods we used. The suffering and pain that I endured by seeing and watching my family members suffer and ending up in death somehow has given me life. Through dying I had life.
The memories of my father, mother-in-law, Aunts, Uncles, cousins, friends will not be forgotten. The death of millions every year can change with research and knowledge of other methods. We need to make a change - Humanity of The Human Heart.