Nine months later with an additional 2 more surgeries under my belt, I will say my life is wonderful.
A brief re-cap:
July last year a portion of my skull, called a bone flap, became infected and had to be removed. Due to this surgery a new benign tumor was found floating in spinal fluid between my lobes. December rolled around and it was removed. (no treatment necessary). On April 9th I was able to have a type of plastic surgery performed which took care of my missing bone flap.
Fast forward to today:
The last 2 weeks of recovery were not as easy as I had thought they would be. I was sleeping more than I was awake. The headaches, and I wasn't expecting any, were not my favorite either. Then last week Thursday my body decided it was time to feel better again. The best way I know to describe this is to talk about the weather. It is similar to 7 straight days of rainy, cloudy cold blahs and then the heavens open the clouds disappear and the sunshine is able to reach you.
I had staples holding things together post-surgery and as of this morning they were removed. Hahzah! No more need to wear camouflage. Although I will since I have become attached to my hats and scarfs.
Monday, April 23, 2012
Friday, September 16, 2011
9/16/11
It is Friday and I have come to realize that I should provide some sort of update.
First please don't be upset with me for not sharing the following details sooner. I felt it was important to get through the worst and complain and moan to the walls, so that I could enjoy the best and carry on a conversation without complaint.
During the last part of July this year I found out that I had an infection brewing in my head. On the 27th I went in for surgery to allow the experts an opportunity to take a look inside my noodle again. With steady hands and much patience the bacteria was cleared out along with a portion of my skull. The portion of bone removed is called a bone flap. The missing portion of bone is about the size of the palm of your hand. Placing the palm of your hand on your hair line on your forehead and that is about where the portion of bone was removed.
Just when I was wearing my hats less I am now back to wearing them every day again. Gosh.
Some of the details:
The infection began to make itself know in the middle of July when a significant area around both eyes began to puff. This included my eyelids all the way to my eyelashes and the entire area around the bridge of my nose. I went to see my GP who gave me some oral antibiotics, which took care of the swelling but then I began to grow a horn on my forehead at my hairline. After that broke open and began to weep I thought "O.k. this is good. I'll let it drain, scab over and move on with my life". That was not what happened. It just kept weeping. So I went in to see my neuro surgeon, who I had not seen in over 3 years. It was after that visit that I was told to be back at the hospital the next morning at 6am. No food or drink after midnight the evening before. Then I hung out at the hospital for the next 3 days. I also received a PICC line, which by they way is a gift from the almighty. A PICC line is a semi permanent iv line placed in a persons arm thus allowing for the body to accept liquid drugs at anytime. An added bonus, and I am saying this with ZERO sarcasm, blood draws are super easy. No additional pokes. Just hook up the tube to the line and let the blood flow.
What I have learned:
I have learned to give myself medicine via my PICC line. The liquid is in a syringe of sorts. I have also figured out that I have a new "guy" at the infectious disease pharmacy who runs point for me when I need him to. Awesome! I have learned that having an nurse who will drive to my home to draw blood ROCKS. She is very cool and will also make phone calls on my behalf which helps so much. I was reminded that driving takes A LOT of concentration and concentration takes energy and energy requires the body to eat and sleep.
The treatment plan:
I will be wrapping up 8 weeks of iv or liquid antibiotics next month and then my PICC line will be removed. Then I will begin about a months worth of oral antibiotics. After this I will be in a wait and see phase. We will wait to see if the infection manifests itself again. I'll know if the bacteria are still there because my forehead will begin to itch like crazy and my eyes may puff up again. After we (the surgeon and I) believe the infection is gone then and only then will my plastic surgery be scheduled. Yup, there is another brain surgery in my future. I will receive a piece of plastic shaped to fit my head. There are 2 benefits to this surgery. ONE - My head will look normal again. And one day I'll be able to wear less of my camouflage. TWO - I will receive a mini face lift. Hooray! Two birds with one stone.
Where I am at:
I won't lie, those first 2 weeks after the infection surgery SUCKED. I'm a little ashamed to admit that if there was an option for me to quit and give up during that time frame I would have. I couldn't stand the sight of my face in the mirror, my head itched like crazy and I had horrible headaches again. Fast forward to today. I feel better. I can do almost all of the things I was doing just before this surgery. I go for short walks and I'm able to make dinner. Dinner sometimes includes a spoon, milk, and a bowl.
What I see happening:
Once I get that plastic in my head I am looking forward to growing my hair back out, and going for another hike. I am going to focus on having an Attitude of Gratitude and make a serious effort to enjoy every persons company I come into contact with. If you are reading this blog YOU are not the "person" I am making an effort to be around. Finally, I see my 2011 holiday season being enjoyable and special.
Best,
Jen
First please don't be upset with me for not sharing the following details sooner. I felt it was important to get through the worst and complain and moan to the walls, so that I could enjoy the best and carry on a conversation without complaint.
During the last part of July this year I found out that I had an infection brewing in my head. On the 27th I went in for surgery to allow the experts an opportunity to take a look inside my noodle again. With steady hands and much patience the bacteria was cleared out along with a portion of my skull. The portion of bone removed is called a bone flap. The missing portion of bone is about the size of the palm of your hand. Placing the palm of your hand on your hair line on your forehead and that is about where the portion of bone was removed.
Just when I was wearing my hats less I am now back to wearing them every day again. Gosh.
Some of the details:
The infection began to make itself know in the middle of July when a significant area around both eyes began to puff. This included my eyelids all the way to my eyelashes and the entire area around the bridge of my nose. I went to see my GP who gave me some oral antibiotics, which took care of the swelling but then I began to grow a horn on my forehead at my hairline. After that broke open and began to weep I thought "O.k. this is good. I'll let it drain, scab over and move on with my life". That was not what happened. It just kept weeping. So I went in to see my neuro surgeon, who I had not seen in over 3 years. It was after that visit that I was told to be back at the hospital the next morning at 6am. No food or drink after midnight the evening before. Then I hung out at the hospital for the next 3 days. I also received a PICC line, which by they way is a gift from the almighty. A PICC line is a semi permanent iv line placed in a persons arm thus allowing for the body to accept liquid drugs at anytime. An added bonus, and I am saying this with ZERO sarcasm, blood draws are super easy. No additional pokes. Just hook up the tube to the line and let the blood flow.
What I have learned:
I have learned to give myself medicine via my PICC line. The liquid is in a syringe of sorts. I have also figured out that I have a new "guy" at the infectious disease pharmacy who runs point for me when I need him to. Awesome! I have learned that having an nurse who will drive to my home to draw blood ROCKS. She is very cool and will also make phone calls on my behalf which helps so much. I was reminded that driving takes A LOT of concentration and concentration takes energy and energy requires the body to eat and sleep.
The treatment plan:
I will be wrapping up 8 weeks of iv or liquid antibiotics next month and then my PICC line will be removed. Then I will begin about a months worth of oral antibiotics. After this I will be in a wait and see phase. We will wait to see if the infection manifests itself again. I'll know if the bacteria are still there because my forehead will begin to itch like crazy and my eyes may puff up again. After we (the surgeon and I) believe the infection is gone then and only then will my plastic surgery be scheduled. Yup, there is another brain surgery in my future. I will receive a piece of plastic shaped to fit my head. There are 2 benefits to this surgery. ONE - My head will look normal again. And one day I'll be able to wear less of my camouflage. TWO - I will receive a mini face lift. Hooray! Two birds with one stone.
Where I am at:
I won't lie, those first 2 weeks after the infection surgery SUCKED. I'm a little ashamed to admit that if there was an option for me to quit and give up during that time frame I would have. I couldn't stand the sight of my face in the mirror, my head itched like crazy and I had horrible headaches again. Fast forward to today. I feel better. I can do almost all of the things I was doing just before this surgery. I go for short walks and I'm able to make dinner. Dinner sometimes includes a spoon, milk, and a bowl.
What I see happening:
Once I get that plastic in my head I am looking forward to growing my hair back out, and going for another hike. I am going to focus on having an Attitude of Gratitude and make a serious effort to enjoy every persons company I come into contact with. If you are reading this blog YOU are not the "person" I am making an effort to be around. Finally, I see my 2011 holiday season being enjoyable and special.
Best,
Jen
Sunday, April 3, 2011
April 3rd 2011
Have you ever signed up to do something and then realized, "Oh, I'm supposed to fund-raise?" It has happened to me recently. The the thought that ran through my mind after I signed up to participate in the 2011 Brain Tumor Walk in Denver was closer to "Right! I need to help raise funds". The walk will begin around 8:30 June 14th in Denver at Sloan's Lake. We will walk around the lake once. I do not have the words to properly describe how many times I have asked myself "Why did I get fred" or "Why me" or Why now"? The only answer I've ever been given is "We don't know". I am asking for your financial support. If you have the desire to donate you can do so online at www.braintumorcommunity.org select donate, then type in my name OR you can mail a check made out to NBTS: National Brain Tumor Society Denver Brain Tumor Walk 124 Watertown Street, Suite 2D Watertown, MA 02472 - list my name on a slip of paper or in the memo field of the check. That's it for my request to help fund research for brain tumors. I might start talking about the walk more and more as we get closer to the date because I'll be excited about it. I will not be asking you for donations face to face, via e-mail, or snail mail. You have done so very much for me and Derek over the last 3 years and we both know it. If you do donate, thank you from my whole heart and what is left of my brain. Best, Jennifer
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
March 22 2011
Today I'm feeling good. I volunteered at Meals on Wheels, took a nap and then did the things at home that must be done.
My A-HA! moment was when I realized that when I am with a group of people I seem to find a hidden reserve of energy that keeps me going. Why am I bringing this up? A couple days ago I went for a snow shoe hike with some other cancer survivors. I did really well, then the physical and mental exertion caught up with me. It took 3 days of rest to get back to myself again. It was SO worth it!
My A-HA! moment was when I realized that when I am with a group of people I seem to find a hidden reserve of energy that keeps me going. Why am I bringing this up? A couple days ago I went for a snow shoe hike with some other cancer survivors. I did really well, then the physical and mental exertion caught up with me. It took 3 days of rest to get back to myself again. It was SO worth it!
Saturday, March 12, 2011
3/12/11
My spirits are high while my body is doing its best to keep up with my daily desires to accomplish something. We went to see a movie last night. It was entertaining. I guess it ended a bit late because today I needed to take a nap. Grr.
I hope you are all doing well. Send me an e-mail to let me know how you're doing.
Jen
I hope you are all doing well. Send me an e-mail to let me know how you're doing.
Jen
Thursday, January 6, 2011
1/6/2011
It is a new year and a new decade. My family and I are doing well. Santa was good to us and "Fred" remains away.
Last month someone asked me what I wanted for Christmas. My mind went blank ... I hadn't even thought about what I wanted for Christmas. I was busy trying to figure out what to give for Christmas. The question of what I wanted for Christmas was stuck in my head for 2 weeks before the big day. I figured out that my struggle selecting gift ideas for myself was caught between what I needed and what I wanted. In the past I would ask for items that would help me with work. Items that would help supplement my "work" uniform. Now that I am not in corporate America, I need less. My new uniform consists of jeans, long sleeve t-shirts, a couple of sweaters, and hats. This has been a huge transition for me. Because none of the items from my newer uniform needed to be replaced. The gifts I did receive were awesome and I have enjoyed them. The best gifts were being able to enjoy the company of friends, Derek, and my animals.
Other than being delighted my tumor has not come back we are enjoying life as much as possible. Over the last couple months our animals entertain us when we are home. We go to the movies and have enjoyed the company of friends often. All of our activities are planned out so that I have the energy to participate. Planning is key since it has allowed me to join a book club and a hiking club in 2010. Which are great because I'm meeting people in settings that are not work related and I am meeting new people, which helps to make me feel less isolated. I continue to volunteer with the same non-profits. The work is the same and the people I volunteer with are amazing.
I am 6 days into this new decade and I can tell it is going to be good. Things are looking up.
Last month someone asked me what I wanted for Christmas. My mind went blank ... I hadn't even thought about what I wanted for Christmas. I was busy trying to figure out what to give for Christmas. The question of what I wanted for Christmas was stuck in my head for 2 weeks before the big day. I figured out that my struggle selecting gift ideas for myself was caught between what I needed and what I wanted. In the past I would ask for items that would help me with work. Items that would help supplement my "work" uniform. Now that I am not in corporate America, I need less. My new uniform consists of jeans, long sleeve t-shirts, a couple of sweaters, and hats. This has been a huge transition for me. Because none of the items from my newer uniform needed to be replaced. The gifts I did receive were awesome and I have enjoyed them. The best gifts were being able to enjoy the company of friends, Derek, and my animals.
Other than being delighted my tumor has not come back we are enjoying life as much as possible. Over the last couple months our animals entertain us when we are home. We go to the movies and have enjoyed the company of friends often. All of our activities are planned out so that I have the energy to participate. Planning is key since it has allowed me to join a book club and a hiking club in 2010. Which are great because I'm meeting people in settings that are not work related and I am meeting new people, which helps to make me feel less isolated. I continue to volunteer with the same non-profits. The work is the same and the people I volunteer with are amazing.
I am 6 days into this new decade and I can tell it is going to be good. Things are looking up.
Thursday, August 26, 2010
8.26.10
Day 745 - The keys on the stop sign, in my neighborhood haven't moved from the post. My theory is that Kermit and friends dropped off their car and didn't know to leave the keys at the house they borrowed it from. It is soo like Miss Piggy to get the rest of the group confused.
On Tuesday this week I went in for my first 4 month, follow-up MRI scan. Yes, indeedy! I got to wait 4 months before going in. My results were good. Before hand I wasn't worried about what I would find. The oncology visit repeated all of the same tests. My favorite is saying the months of the year backwards starting with December, with eyes closed. I keep forgetting to ask why my eyes have to be closed. I'm curious.
I continue to count my blessings every day, and grudgingly take naps when I need them. So you know, I don't like taking them. I thought I would, but I don't. They get the awake hours I need to do other things. The positive is that I get to snuggle our dog who will take a nap anytime.
On Tuesday this week I went in for my first 4 month, follow-up MRI scan. Yes, indeedy! I got to wait 4 months before going in. My results were good. Before hand I wasn't worried about what I would find. The oncology visit repeated all of the same tests. My favorite is saying the months of the year backwards starting with December, with eyes closed. I keep forgetting to ask why my eyes have to be closed. I'm curious.
I continue to count my blessings every day, and grudgingly take naps when I need them. So you know, I don't like taking them. I thought I would, but I don't. They get the awake hours I need to do other things. The positive is that I get to snuggle our dog who will take a nap anytime.
Friday, August 6, 2010
8.6.10
The first Wednesday of every month from 5 - 7 is when I join other brain tumor survivors and caregivers. My first meeting wasn't great, for me. But then again I was scared and had a lot of questions. Each meeting starts with introductions. Each person shares as much or as little about themselves as they would like.
This months meeting was so much better. I met Fred. Not my "Fred", but a Fred who happens to be a 13 years survivor. And thank god he had a sense of humor because me announcing that I named my tumor could have been really awkward. My feel good moments were:
1. When I found out that a couple of my suggestions were being put to good use.
a. name your tumor
b. start a blog
2. When I made a couple positive comments
a. find your purpose
b. give yourself permission to feel depressed, then pick yourself up and get back into life.
Right? Crazy huh. I only said what any of my friends would say. Well actually naming your tumor may only be a Jen Stanley thing.
My health over the last month..... Gosh I have no clue what the heck is up. Some days I'm wiped out so badly that all I want to do is nap all day and other days I have the energy to clean the house, do the laundry and go for a long walk. I still get headaches. I've been through worse and I'm not going to complain. Unless I'm tired and then you don't want to be around.
This months meeting was so much better. I met Fred. Not my "Fred", but a Fred who happens to be a 13 years survivor. And thank god he had a sense of humor because me announcing that I named my tumor could have been really awkward. My feel good moments were:
1. When I found out that a couple of my suggestions were being put to good use.
a. name your tumor
b. start a blog
2. When I made a couple positive comments
a. find your purpose
b. give yourself permission to feel depressed, then pick yourself up and get back into life.
Right? Crazy huh. I only said what any of my friends would say. Well actually naming your tumor may only be a Jen Stanley thing.
My health over the last month..... Gosh I have no clue what the heck is up. Some days I'm wiped out so badly that all I want to do is nap all day and other days I have the energy to clean the house, do the laundry and go for a long walk. I still get headaches. I've been through worse and I'm not going to complain. Unless I'm tired and then you don't want to be around.
Thursday, May 13, 2010
5/13/10
I am seriously considering calling my doctor just to provide her with an update on how I've been feeling lately. I used to feel great and there were even a few days that I felt like my old self. Recently I've been feeling more and more tired. Naps after volunteering are now feeling normal. Headaches after being in a room with flouresent lights for an hour are also becoming normal. I don't like it, it cuts into my day, and there are so many things I want to accomplish. There is nothing less frusterating than watching my lists grow day after day. I've always felt that I am a "get it done" girl. I can't wait to get back my energy and endurance back.
I'm going to take a nap now. Cheers.
I'm going to take a nap now. Cheers.
Thursday, April 29, 2010
4/29/10
EEG Results
I realized I didn't share my EEG results. The results showed that if I were to stop taking anti-seizure medications I would likely experience another seizure. This wasn't news that I wanted to hear since I was convinced that I would NEVER have another. And I believe this is also why I didn't share my news sooner. It wasn't what I wanted to hear. The positive here is that I know and knowledge is power. Right?
I realized I didn't share my EEG results. The results showed that if I were to stop taking anti-seizure medications I would likely experience another seizure. This wasn't news that I wanted to hear since I was convinced that I would NEVER have another. And I believe this is also why I didn't share my news sooner. It wasn't what I wanted to hear. The positive here is that I know and knowledge is power. Right?
4/29/10
Results from 4/27/10 MRI
On Tuesday this week I went back to University Hospital for another routine check-up. The results from my MRI were the same as my last visit which equals no “Fred”. My going in for MRI’s and then a doctors visit has become the normal. I bring along an extra pair of warm socks, comfy pants, and a sweatshirt. A technician calls my name gives me two gowns and a pair of pants and asks me to change. I don’t change and wait to receive my iv for the scan. Due to the positive results I have had I get to move into a 4 month MRI cycle. (I had thought I would move into a 6 month cycle but I have been wrong about these things before. It is best to not get disappointed). This is a big deal because I was going in every 3 months.
Tuesday I must have looked a little worried when the technician, who has had her job for 18 years, started looking for a good vein and sent me to the nurse. The nurse, who has helped before, is the “One Poke Wonder”, and deserves an award. She took one look at my arm and got the iv in, and in a matter of seconds I was off for my scan. This is a pretty big deal when you run into a lot of medically trained individuals who have poor technique.
The MRI machine is exceptionally loud and the shape effectively funnels the noise to the patient’s ears and spine. However, when an individual is just tired enough and has ear plugs in, it is actually possible to fall asleep during the MRI. I did drift in and out of sleep during my 28 minutes and when not asleep I thought about the thump of the magnets and what kind of dance our Native Americans would do around the campfire. Weird? Yes. Do I do this often? Yes, I have done this during most of my scans.
To date I have been feeling good. I still get pooped out when I try to do to many things in a day, or if I stay longer at a volunteer job than regularly scheduled. I will be ecstatic to get past this energy plateau. Someday soon I hope.
On Tuesday this week I went back to University Hospital for another routine check-up. The results from my MRI were the same as my last visit which equals no “Fred”. My going in for MRI’s and then a doctors visit has become the normal. I bring along an extra pair of warm socks, comfy pants, and a sweatshirt. A technician calls my name gives me two gowns and a pair of pants and asks me to change. I don’t change and wait to receive my iv for the scan. Due to the positive results I have had I get to move into a 4 month MRI cycle. (I had thought I would move into a 6 month cycle but I have been wrong about these things before. It is best to not get disappointed). This is a big deal because I was going in every 3 months.
Tuesday I must have looked a little worried when the technician, who has had her job for 18 years, started looking for a good vein and sent me to the nurse. The nurse, who has helped before, is the “One Poke Wonder”, and deserves an award. She took one look at my arm and got the iv in, and in a matter of seconds I was off for my scan. This is a pretty big deal when you run into a lot of medically trained individuals who have poor technique.
The MRI machine is exceptionally loud and the shape effectively funnels the noise to the patient’s ears and spine. However, when an individual is just tired enough and has ear plugs in, it is actually possible to fall asleep during the MRI. I did drift in and out of sleep during my 28 minutes and when not asleep I thought about the thump of the magnets and what kind of dance our Native Americans would do around the campfire. Weird? Yes. Do I do this often? Yes, I have done this during most of my scans.
To date I have been feeling good. I still get pooped out when I try to do to many things in a day, or if I stay longer at a volunteer job than regularly scheduled. I will be ecstatic to get past this energy plateau. Someday soon I hope.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
3/10/10
EEG's measure a persons brain waves and I took an EEG test on Monday this week. It was not an enjoyable experience for me. I was told to stay up as late as possible the night before so that I would fall asleep during the test. The longest part of the test was the set-up phase. My head was measured and marked and the wires were attached with tape. Before the wires can be taped to my head a citrus smelling cream (with something scratchy in it) was smeared on my face and scalp. The cream provided a slight burning sensation and left a sah-weet red mark behind. And the tests began. Phase 1. A bright light is positioned in front of my face and for about 3-4 mins, while my eyes were closed, it flashes. Each flash felt like I was looking at the sun. Phase 2. The hyperventilation test. Pretty much what it sounds like. I hyperventilated for 3 mins. The room was VERY cold and my nose felt frozen and would break off. Phase 3. This was the portion of the test I had been looking forward to. 30. mins of sleep. It didn't happen, mostly due to the very cold nature of the room. I did have 2 blankets on. I would call them sheets because the blankets were very thin. I'm waiting to hear back on the final results. Hopefully sometime this week.
Below is something a friend e-mailed to me. I hope you laugh as much as I did.
Q: Doctor, I've heard that cardiovascular exercise can prolong life. Is this true?
A: Your heart only good for so many beats, and that it...don't waste on exercise. Everything wear out eventually. Speeding up heart not make you live longer; it like saying you extend life of car by driving faster. Want to live longer? Take nap.
Q: Should I cut down on meat and eat more fruits and vegetables?
A: You must grasp logistical efficiency. What does cow eat? Hay and corn. And what are these? Vegetables. So steak is nothing more than efficient mechanism of delivering vegetables to your system. Need grain? Eat chicken. Beef also good source of field grass (green leafy vegetable). And pork chop can give you 100% of recommended daily allowance of vegetable product.
Q: Should I reduce my alcohol intake?
A: No, not at all. Wine made from fruit. Brandy is distilled wine, that mean they take water out of fruity bit so you get even more of goodness that way. Beer also made of grain. Bottom up!
Q: How can I calculate my body/fat ratio?
A: Well, if you have body and you have fat, your ratio one to one. If you have two bodies, your ratio two to one, etc.
Q: What are some of the advantages of participating in a regular exercise program?
A: Can't think of single one, sorry. My philosophy is: No pain...good!
Q: Aren't fried foods bad for you?
A: YOU NOT LISTENING! Food are fried these day in vegetable oil. In fact, they permeated by it. How could getting more vegetable be bad for you?!?
Q: Will sit-ups help prevent me from getting a little soft around the middle?
A: Definitely not! When you exercise muscle, it get bigger. You should only be doing sit-up if you want bigger stomach.
Q: Is chocolate bad for me?
A: Are you crazy?!? HEL-LO-O!! Cocoa bean! Another vegetable! It best feel-good food around!
Q: Is swimming good for your figure?
A: If swimming good for your figure, explain whale to me..
Q: Is getting in shape important for my lifestyle?
A: Hey! 'Round' is a shape!
Well, I hope this has cleared up any misconceptions you may have had about food and diets. And remember: Life should NOT be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive and well-preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways with a Chardonnay in one hand - chocolate in the other - body thoroughly used up, totally worn out and screaming "WOO-HOO, what a ride!!"
ALSO
For those of you who watch what you eat, here's the final word on nutrition and health. It's a relief to know the truth after all those conflicting nutritional studies.
1. The Japanese eat very little fat and suffer fewer heart attacks than us.
2. The Mexicans eat a lot of fat and suffer fewer heart attacks than us.
3. The Chinese drink very little red wine and suffer fewer heart attacks than us.
4. The Italians drink a lot of red wine and suffer fewer heart attacks than us.
5. The Germans drink a lot of beer and eat lots of sausages and fats and suffer fewer heart attacks than us.
CONCLUSION:
Eat and drink what you like.
Speaking English is apparently what kills you!!!
Below is something a friend e-mailed to me. I hope you laugh as much as I did.
Q: Doctor, I've heard that cardiovascular exercise can prolong life. Is this true?
A: Your heart only good for so many beats, and that it...don't waste on exercise. Everything wear out eventually. Speeding up heart not make you live longer; it like saying you extend life of car by driving faster. Want to live longer? Take nap.
Q: Should I cut down on meat and eat more fruits and vegetables?
A: You must grasp logistical efficiency. What does cow eat? Hay and corn. And what are these? Vegetables. So steak is nothing more than efficient mechanism of delivering vegetables to your system. Need grain? Eat chicken. Beef also good source of field grass (green leafy vegetable). And pork chop can give you 100% of recommended daily allowance of vegetable product.
Q: Should I reduce my alcohol intake?
A: No, not at all. Wine made from fruit. Brandy is distilled wine, that mean they take water out of fruity bit so you get even more of goodness that way. Beer also made of grain. Bottom up!
Q: How can I calculate my body/fat ratio?
A: Well, if you have body and you have fat, your ratio one to one. If you have two bodies, your ratio two to one, etc.
Q: What are some of the advantages of participating in a regular exercise program?
A: Can't think of single one, sorry. My philosophy is: No pain...good!
Q: Aren't fried foods bad for you?
A: YOU NOT LISTENING! Food are fried these day in vegetable oil. In fact, they permeated by it. How could getting more vegetable be bad for you?!?
Q: Will sit-ups help prevent me from getting a little soft around the middle?
A: Definitely not! When you exercise muscle, it get bigger. You should only be doing sit-up if you want bigger stomach.
Q: Is chocolate bad for me?
A: Are you crazy?!? HEL-LO-O!! Cocoa bean! Another vegetable! It best feel-good food around!
Q: Is swimming good for your figure?
A: If swimming good for your figure, explain whale to me..
Q: Is getting in shape important for my lifestyle?
A: Hey! 'Round' is a shape!
Well, I hope this has cleared up any misconceptions you may have had about food and diets. And remember: Life should NOT be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive and well-preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways with a Chardonnay in one hand - chocolate in the other - body thoroughly used up, totally worn out and screaming "WOO-HOO, what a ride!!"
ALSO
For those of you who watch what you eat, here's the final word on nutrition and health. It's a relief to know the truth after all those conflicting nutritional studies.
1. The Japanese eat very little fat and suffer fewer heart attacks than us.
2. The Mexicans eat a lot of fat and suffer fewer heart attacks than us.
3. The Chinese drink very little red wine and suffer fewer heart attacks than us.
4. The Italians drink a lot of red wine and suffer fewer heart attacks than us.
5. The Germans drink a lot of beer and eat lots of sausages and fats and suffer fewer heart attacks than us.
CONCLUSION:
Eat and drink what you like.
Speaking English is apparently what kills you!!!
Thursday, March 4, 2010
3/4/10
Last week I found out someone I know was diagnosed with cancer. It seems unfair. I took one for the team and no one else should have to go through the fear, anger, denial, and painfully annoying treatments. No one else should have to join the "C" club. I'm still not sure what it is that makes our bodies attack itself. I wish I had the power to stop it from happening to anyone else.
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
3/2/10
I had the day off from volunteering today and spent some time reflecting. In 2008 and 2009 I lost a bit of weight via the radiation diet. Although I liked the weight changes, I'd been told that I didn't look great. Examples: I looked gaunt, I lacked color, I looked tired. To combat this rapid loss of weight a dietitian at University Hospital told me I could EAT anything and everything I wanted. Nothing was off limits. I ate fried cheese, cookies, re fried beans, you name it if it was bad for me I ate it. As a result I put all of the weight plus some extra pounds on FAST.
In Jan. this year my neighbor invited me to join a competition to lose the most weight. The winner collects $20 bucks from all the other competitors. The tally is calculated at the end of this month. My goal is to get healthy and break my bad eating habits. Up until last week I was doing a decent job. And then it happened. We received a magazine from someone listing 5 delicious recipes. I made chocolate chocolate-chip pancakes for breakfast and banana chocolate strudel. Can I say calories never tasted so good. And tomorrow we'll enjoy some sort of flank steak Tex-Mex concoction. I'm happy to share these delightful sensations with anyone wanting to experiment in their kitchen. I do believe I will lose this competition. And I would like to say "Losing never tasted so good."
In Jan. this year my neighbor invited me to join a competition to lose the most weight. The winner collects $20 bucks from all the other competitors. The tally is calculated at the end of this month. My goal is to get healthy and break my bad eating habits. Up until last week I was doing a decent job. And then it happened. We received a magazine from someone listing 5 delicious recipes. I made chocolate chocolate-chip pancakes for breakfast and banana chocolate strudel. Can I say calories never tasted so good. And tomorrow we'll enjoy some sort of flank steak Tex-Mex concoction. I'm happy to share these delightful sensations with anyone wanting to experiment in their kitchen. I do believe I will lose this competition. And I would like to say "Losing never tasted so good."
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
2/23/10
I have a couple thoughts to share with everyone tonight. 1st thought is about me. I've had a cold for the last few days. Nothing big, but it was enough that I had to call in sick to my volunteer job on Monday. For those of you who used to work with me you know that a cold would never have stopped me from showing up. It'll be over by Friday. I am volunteering 4 days a week for a couple hours each day. New news is that I have stopped looking for a job. This decision came after realizing that even if I were offered a part-time job I would not be able to accept. It was a blow to my rosy, Pollyanna outlook. I'm still not happy about it and will continue to fight my way back to full recovery.
2nd thought. I just heard about a shooting at a middle-school in Denver. I continue to wonder how we have failed ourselves, our neighbors, and our children so completely that shootings at schools continue to happen. I keep asking myself if there is anything that can be done to prevent this from happening again.
2nd thought. I just heard about a shooting at a middle-school in Denver. I continue to wonder how we have failed ourselves, our neighbors, and our children so completely that shootings at schools continue to happen. I keep asking myself if there is anything that can be done to prevent this from happening again.
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
2/2/10
Boulder. Is there really another small city in the U.S.A like it? Where else would there city council issues like public nudity and ticketing the homeless all on the same night. If I had to choose on nudity I'd have to vote to let it continue to let it happen without any legal ramifications. And the homeless topic, gosh... is there an answer that would work for everyone?
I'm about 11 pages in to the book Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert. It turns out that 11 pages is enough. I think I'm hooked.
And if you are not connected to me via facebook and you haven't talked to me on the phone I have good news (it was expected) to report. Last week I had my latest MRI and the results were positive. I admit it is becoming more and more difficult to believe that "Fred" will ever come back.
I'm about 11 pages in to the book Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert. It turns out that 11 pages is enough. I think I'm hooked.
And if you are not connected to me via facebook and you haven't talked to me on the phone I have good news (it was expected) to report. Last week I had my latest MRI and the results were positive. I admit it is becoming more and more difficult to believe that "Fred" will ever come back.
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Dec. 29, 2009
For Christmas this year I received a couple writing books. One of the first suggestions is to write about a childhood memory. And I have decided it wouldn't hurt to share my earliest and possibly funniest moment with you.
I must have been between 2 1/2 and 3 years old. We lived in a tiny 2 bedroom 1 1/2 bath house. It was dark outside so I am assuming it was around bedtime. I remember my mother was changing my sister's diaper on the bathroom counter upstairs, and I desperately wanted to help. Next to my baby sister was a HUGE container of Vaseline. (You get 1 second to guess what happened next.) And lets face it, everything seems big to a 3 year old. I'm pretty sure I was told not to touch the container and I know I didn't listen. I don't remember grabbing the tub, and I know I did because the next thing I remember was being in the kitchen downstairs smearing the greasy sticky stuff everywhere my little hands could reach. This includes and was not limited to the following. The floor, cupboards, knobs, chairs, refrigerator, kitchen table, utensils in drawers, and myself. For some reason I kept the mess in the kitchen and that probably saved me some serious "nose in the corner" time. At some point I realized I was going to be in trouble because I started crying possibly howling. My mother walked in to find the me and the mess I had miraculously created. Now, I don't remember if there was spanking involved or not and I wouldn't be surprised if it happened. I only remember that I was never allowed access to the Vaseline while it was in the house again.
I hope you enjoyed the quick story. Happy New Year!
I must have been between 2 1/2 and 3 years old. We lived in a tiny 2 bedroom 1 1/2 bath house. It was dark outside so I am assuming it was around bedtime. I remember my mother was changing my sister's diaper on the bathroom counter upstairs, and I desperately wanted to help. Next to my baby sister was a HUGE container of Vaseline. (You get 1 second to guess what happened next.) And lets face it, everything seems big to a 3 year old. I'm pretty sure I was told not to touch the container and I know I didn't listen. I don't remember grabbing the tub, and I know I did because the next thing I remember was being in the kitchen downstairs smearing the greasy sticky stuff everywhere my little hands could reach. This includes and was not limited to the following. The floor, cupboards, knobs, chairs, refrigerator, kitchen table, utensils in drawers, and myself. For some reason I kept the mess in the kitchen and that probably saved me some serious "nose in the corner" time. At some point I realized I was going to be in trouble because I started crying possibly howling. My mother walked in to find the me and the mess I had miraculously created. Now, I don't remember if there was spanking involved or not and I wouldn't be surprised if it happened. I only remember that I was never allowed access to the Vaseline while it was in the house again.
I hope you enjoyed the quick story. Happy New Year!
Monday, December 21, 2009
12/21/09
It's been a while since I've posted anything. I haven't posted anything because I've been feeling better and stronger and I'm out in the world volunteering. It's an amazing healer to help others and not focus on oneself.
Today I ran across an article entitled
Cancer Lesson's: What we wished we'd known http://www.care2.com/greenliving/cancer-lessons-what-we-wish-wed-known.html?&page=3
(I'm only going to type out the bullet points and add a response from my perspective)
1. Doctor's forget to share the gory details. I have the highest amount of respect for oncologists. These highly educated people deal with cancer and treatments all day long everyday. Meaning they are doing their best to heal us. I shouldn't have been surprised to learn (towards the end of my radiation) that my radiation treatments were going to give me a burn that could, however unlikely, cause me skin cancer. Or that, and this is gross, pooping after 5 days of no pooping is very unpleasant.
2. Insurance can cause more stress than cancer. NO S#!@. And it's not just your medical insurance. It's the long-term disability and social security paperwork and phone calls each individual must deal with. Because there is no central agency to outline the process of who needs what and why it's important. I still get a bit panicky when someone from insurance calls because they are either calling to say they aren't going to pay (because someone billed it wrong) and then it becomes your own responsibility to get it corrected. OR they are calling because they want to see if you might be able to work and they can stop paying benefits out. Oh the stories I can share and probably already have.
3. Not all blood & chemo technicians are created equal. It is the person who keeps trying to find your vein thus creating a bruise for people to see over then next few days that always helps me to appreciate the good ones. Next time you have your blood drawn or receive an IV and the job gets done in one poke, please make sure to thank that technician.
4. Nurses know, and anticipate, what you need. Amen sister!
5. Cancer is different in younger patients than in older ones. It doesn't seem fair that children are diagnosed with cancer. They haven't had their chance to experience life.
6. Hospice is not just for the dying. I didn't know this. I do wish I had known Meals on Wheels wasn't just for the elderly. It would have been a huge help back during treatments.
7. Eat your broccoli and kale and other greens. Sounds good. But how much more do I have to eat?
8. Cancer can be a punch line. Humor makes everything so much easier to deal with. I named mine "Fred".
I'm off to figure out why my latest MRI wasn't covered by insurance. Wish me patience and luck. Reference bullet no. 2.
Today I ran across an article entitled
Cancer Lesson's: What we wished we'd known http://www.care2.com/greenliving/cancer-lessons-what-we-wish-wed-known.html?&page=3
(I'm only going to type out the bullet points and add a response from my perspective)
1. Doctor's forget to share the gory details. I have the highest amount of respect for oncologists. These highly educated people deal with cancer and treatments all day long everyday. Meaning they are doing their best to heal us. I shouldn't have been surprised to learn (towards the end of my radiation) that my radiation treatments were going to give me a burn that could, however unlikely, cause me skin cancer. Or that, and this is gross, pooping after 5 days of no pooping is very unpleasant.
2. Insurance can cause more stress than cancer. NO S#!@. And it's not just your medical insurance. It's the long-term disability and social security paperwork and phone calls each individual must deal with. Because there is no central agency to outline the process of who needs what and why it's important. I still get a bit panicky when someone from insurance calls because they are either calling to say they aren't going to pay (because someone billed it wrong) and then it becomes your own responsibility to get it corrected. OR they are calling because they want to see if you might be able to work and they can stop paying benefits out. Oh the stories I can share and probably already have.
3. Not all blood & chemo technicians are created equal. It is the person who keeps trying to find your vein thus creating a bruise for people to see over then next few days that always helps me to appreciate the good ones. Next time you have your blood drawn or receive an IV and the job gets done in one poke, please make sure to thank that technician.
4. Nurses know, and anticipate, what you need. Amen sister!
5. Cancer is different in younger patients than in older ones. It doesn't seem fair that children are diagnosed with cancer. They haven't had their chance to experience life.
6. Hospice is not just for the dying. I didn't know this. I do wish I had known Meals on Wheels wasn't just for the elderly. It would have been a huge help back during treatments.
7. Eat your broccoli and kale and other greens. Sounds good. But how much more do I have to eat?
8. Cancer can be a punch line. Humor makes everything so much easier to deal with. I named mine "Fred".
I'm off to figure out why my latest MRI wasn't covered by insurance. Wish me patience and luck. Reference bullet no. 2.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
11/17/09
About a year and a half ago I started taking walks around the block with Cora. Around that time I noticed that there were a set of car keys hanging on one of our stop signs. It isn't obvious that they're there and I'm sure most neighbors have never seen them. Today I walked past that same stop sign and the keys are still there. I'm curious if they've been forgotten or if there is another reason they just hang out 24/7. If I took those keys would someone put up a sign that says "Lost Keys, Please return to Stop Sign"? Regardless, I'm clearly not interested enough to knock on doors to find out because at this point does it really matter?
Monday, November 2, 2009
Nov. 11 2009
I received my MRI results Thursday last week. I am happy to report that "Fred" was no where to be seen. My next MRI is scheduled for Jan 2010. I think I have this c stuff licked.
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