PALE SKIN IS IN

Help Team Pale Skin Is In support The Shade Foundation!

2012-01-11T10:05:00.000-07:00

This weekend, Team Pale Skin Is In will be running in the PF Chang's half marathon here in Phoenix (Jan 15, 2012). While last year we ran to raise money for the Melanoma Foundation, this year we are running to raise money for The Shade Foundation (www.shadefoundation.org). Their mission is to "To eradicate melanoma through the education of children and the community in the prevention and detection of skin cancer and the promotion of sun safety."

Help support Team Pale Skin Is In and The Shade Foundation by making a donation! You tax deductible donation will go a long way in helping The Shade Foundation continue with great programs to educate school children and communities about Skin Cancer prevention.

http://www.shadefoundation.org/sunset-run-for-shade.php

If you would like to be part of Team Pale Skin Is In, either to run or just be part of the team, let me know - its not too late! We would love to have you join us...

It has been a while...an update!

2011-11-29T12:31:00.001-07:00

As Thanksgiving has now passed us and we are all reflecting on what we are thankful for, I realize that that it is my turn...

Since Tina's passing, I have not been able to officially thank those who have supported us over the last few months. Know that words cannot express the thanks to those whom have done so much for our family and in support of 'Pale Skin Is In'. It has truly been amazing. It has obviously been a difficult couple of months without Tina, but Teya and I are finally starting to get into the swing of it being just the two of us. Luckily I have had the full support of my work, JDA Software, so that has helped the transition immensely. I am also very proud of how my little girl has handled all of this. She definitely learned from her mother! I know this may be a bit late, but thank you...

Many people have been asking, so what is going to happen to Pale Skin Is In? It was always Tina's hope to have Pale Skin Is In educate and raise awareness of melanoma, especially for children, so that is just what we are going to continue to try and do. First and foremost, in Tina's memory we are building a sun shade at the school Tina worked as a pre-school teacher, and loved, Paradise For Tots. I thank everyone who donated to the cause! The project is now in production mode, so I will hopefully have more information in a few short weeks! The Phoenix and Michigan chapters of Team Pale Skin Is In will continue to try to keep Tina's work alive - educating and raising awareness of melanoma!

Also, following up on the success of last year’s PF Chang's half marathon and raising money for the Melanoma Foundation, Team Pale Skin Is In will again be running in the PF Chang's half marathon here in Phoenix (Jan 15, 2012). I was able to find the perfect cause to raise money for - a 501(c)3 non-profit The Shade Foundation (www.shadefoundation.org). It was started by a former Phoenician Shonda Shilling, wife of former MLB pitcher Curt Shilling. Shonda started the foundation back in 2001 after her own battle with melanoma. Their mission is to "To eradicate melanoma through the education of children and the community in the prevention and detection of skin cancer and the promotion of sun safety." I can't think of a better organization to raise money for! This year, we will again be running in the Phoenix PF Chang's half marathon, but a few people will also be running in the Las Vegas PF Chang's half marathon Dec 4th! Last year we raised over $4500 for the Melanoma Foundation, this year we hope to raise that much or more for the Shade Foundation...

If you would like to be part of Team Pale Skin Is In, either to run or just be part of the team, let me know - you might get a cool shirt out of it! If you would like to donate and help Team Pale Skin Is In "Run for the Shade", it would be greatly appreciated:

http://www.shadefoundation.org/sunset-run-for-shade.php

Finally, I hope to be a bit better on updating this site with the progress of Team Pale Skin Is In as we continue Tina's mission - education and awareness! Thanks again for all your support...

Todd

Memorial Service for Tina...

2011-07-31T17:15:00.001-07:00

Wanted to let everyone know we will be having a memorial service for Tina on Tuesday, August 16th at 6:30pm at the Scottsdale Worship Center in Scottsdale, AZ...

Scottsdale Worship Center
6508 East Cactus Road
Scottsdale, AZ 85254-4553
(480) 483-2401

We give more details as we get them...

The journey has ended...

2011-07-22T14:22:00.002-07:00

It is with a heavy heart and great sadness that I let you know Tina's journey has ended. She went peacefully this afternoon, and was surrounded by family. Tina's story of her battle with melanoma touched many people, and was an inspiration to all - she will be missed dearly...

We will be having a memorial service on Monday here in Michigan, and will share more information once we get it...

Heading home...

2011-07-21T21:50:00.000-07:00

Well, we checked Tina out of the hospital today and brough her back to her parents house for the last part of her journey. Her condition has worsened unexpectedly the last week, and after running a number of tests at the hospital, they determined there just wasn't anything they could do to help her. She was happy to be going home though, so at least she can be comfortable and surrounded by family and friends.

It is very hard to see someone so strong, such a fighter, and such an inspiration to so many people, so weak. We all still believe in miracles though, so any prayers or pleasant thoughts would be much apprecaited...

Got some good news, got some bad news...

2011-07-17T21:22:00.003-07:00

Well, have some good news, and have some bad news for you. First, the bad news...

Today we had to check Tina into the hospital. The last 4 or 5 days have been really bad for her, and she has been getting weaker and weaker every day. She had lost a lot of weight, her energy level was down, and she had very little appetite. We had a talk with her, and we gave her the option to head to a hospital, or wait a day or two to see if she got better. With the way she was feeling, she opted to head to the hospital...and we all agreed it was the right thing to do.

The good news, if you can call it good news, is we now know why she was feeling so bad - pneumonia. I guess the infection in her left lung is really bad. She was moved to ICU, and they have already begun treatment for it. We are hoping for a speedy recovery, but due to the weak condition she was in before we got to the hospital, it might take a bit longer than normal for her. Yes, it is a stretch to call it good news, but it could have been much worse - at least it doesn't have anything to do with the cancer. We are happy we got her into the hospital when we did...

While we are here, we are also going to see if we can get a read of how Tina is doing aside from the pneumonia. Since she has been in hospice so long, we haven't really had any tests done on either her heart or her tumor(s). Hopefully being in the hospital might give us some information that might help us after she gets out as we look at the next steps to try and get her treatment - our goal AFTER we get her better from the pneumonia...

Anyway, will keep you updated in the next couple of days...

Michigan Update from Mom

2011-07-15T11:10:00.000-07:00

Tina's first couple of weeks in MI went fairly well. Tons of changes for the Sullivan family for sure. Todd and Teya seemed to have settled in quite well. Tina has a first floor room in our home. She can see the water from her room and the living room. Tina enjoys spending some time on the deck which over looks a lake. Teya swims a lot and loves the speed boat. Todd is learning to drive the speed boat with dad skiing and mastering his own boarding skills.

Tina had to have an abnormal tap last Friday. The Hospital was able to remove 7-lbs of fluids, which brought much needed relief. Since the tap Tina has had some very good days and some bad ones. But with all the prayers we are thankful that the good days are out weighing the bad.

Today marked another start of a new challenge Tina is taking on. She began some small exercises to try and increase her strength in her legs and arms and over all body. I am very proud of her and believe she did a very good job. She has been doing some strengthen but is now working even harder. A good friend of mine brought over a walker with wheels and a seat on it. The walker truly made major changes in Tina's ability to walk more. Funny how simply things can truly change one's life.

She is surrounding with lots of family and friends. We never know who's stopping by for a visit: brother, aunts, uncles, cousins, niece's, nephews and friends. Even a sheriff stop by for a visit ha-ha her uncle. Tina's aunt comes now every Wed and spends the day with her and gives mom a much needed day off. Big hugs go out to her and those of our friends and family who have step up to take time out of there precious days to become part of Team Pale Skin is in.

One last bit of news while Todd continues to work out of the RV we all travel to MI in. He and Teya will have a new home by the first of the month. My husband and I bought the house next door to us and they will have a place to call home in MI. Teya says she can't wait to move in.

Well that's all for now, thank for all your love, prayers and support. Tina still feels it all and hopes one day soon she will be able to speak with you directly.

Michigan Bound!

2011-06-30T11:50:00.002-07:00

Well, believe it or not, we are currently on an RV bound for Michigan...with Tina on board!

It was a tough decision, but Tina really wanted to be up by family to try and gain her strength back and get better. Since she is unable to fly, we knew driving was the only option. No way she could ride in a car in her condition, so we decided to RV it. We are the proud new owners of a 1991 33 ft Holiday Rambler! It has a great big queen size bed in the back, which is perfect for Tina.

We are at the tail end of the trip as we just entered Michigan, and it is a welcome relief to get out of the AZ heat. It has been a pretty good trip, and Tina is doing great. Teya is actaully having a pretty good time too, and Rick, Rose and I are splitting all the driving duties. Teya is in charge of the having fun in the RV duties, and it seems she is doing just that. Only been pulled over by the cops once on the trip...

So how long are we going to be in Michigan? Really, it is kinda unknown...but as long as is necessary. The main goal is to get Tina healthy, so she will stay at her parents house so everyone can help nurse her back to health, and the RV will be my new home/office. We are hoping to be here 1-2 months before we can head back to AZ. If we think it is going to be any longer than that, we will look to rent a house up here and go from there. Thankfully, my work has been great about me working remotely, so I really, really appreciate that. Two of Tina's co-workers from PTF are staying at our house while we are gone so Marley, Bo, Kitty and the fish will be well looked after, and our good friends Cathy and Jon are gonna help take care of any other house stuff that may arise. That makes the trip that much easier...

While we will dearly miss our AZ family, know you are in our thoughts. We have received such fantasic love and support from everyone, it made the decision to leave very, very though. Know the invite is out for anyone to come and visit! Might be a nice break to get out of the AZ heat and come play on the water. Thanks again for all the love, prayers and support!

Tina's first week home...

2011-06-17T02:03:00.001-07:00

So it has been a week since Tina has been home, and she seems to be doing a lot better. She still seems to have good days and bad days, but luckily, lately they have been good days. Much of the swelling she had when she was in the hospital seems to be going away, her heart rate seems to be a bit lower, and today she was even able to get out of the bed by herself and take about 10 steps with her walker! Might not seem like much, but for someone who has pretty much been confined to a bed/chair for the last 6 weeks, it was quite an accomplishment! Nothing like being home...

The hospice doctor was here today, and he too seemed impressed by her progress. He thinks we are going on the right path to get her better, but thinks it will definitely be more time.

I must clear something up though. While we say she is getting better with the little day to day things we post about - that we see as 'victories' - please understand how sick she really is. Why do I say this? It seems some people are thinking that she is getting better. Bottom line is she has a damaged heart that isn't working correctly, melanoma tumor(s) that are growing, and a girl that isn't yet strong enough physically to do anything about them. We need to get her heart better, so we can start some type of cancer treatment for the tumors. We are still a long way before she can start fighting again...

Now, if you know Tina though, you know that is nothing! Our girl is so strong and driven, we have no doubt she is going to pull through with flying colors. The thoughts and prayers that each of you have sent her way have definitely been felt! We thank you...

Anyway, will try to get an update again in the next few days...

Quick note...Tina is home!

2011-06-10T01:04:00.001-07:00

Being in the hospital just wasn't the environment she needed to fight, so we made the decision to bring her home with hospice, and the doctor's all gave the OK. The hospice staff took care of getting all the hospital equipment, medications, supplies, etc...and will be dropping by every day or two to help us take care of her.

It is the first step to getting her well enough to really begin fighting this fight...and nothing like being at home. Teya was especially excited...but I think all of us were equally thrilled, as it was a long 3 weeks with her in the hospital. Now we just need to get her better...

Thanks again for all your thoughts and prayers. Know that Tina can feel them, and they are a great strength for her, so thank you and keep it up!

The latest update on Tina...

2011-06-08T15:40:00.002-07:00

I know many of you have been asking, so a quick update of the latest information for you...

It started on Saturday night, when Tina's heart rate skyrocketed to almost 200, so they rushed her down to ICU and tried to get her heart rate back in check. They did an Echocardiogram on her heart to see what was going on, the result was they found out the ejection fraction (the pumping function of the heart) was only about 15-17%, where a 'normal' heart is 50-60%.

The critical issue is she will not be able to survive if they can't get that percentage up, and we have been told this isn't really something that can 'improve' - so we don't really know what the next step is. While they really don't know what caused the problems, they think it might have been caused by her latest Chemo, DTIC (Dacarbazine). Unfortunately, Chemo isn't smart enough to just target the cancer; it works on all organs in the body. Bottom line is, the heart has become the biggest issue - if that can't be figured out, it doesn't matter what is happening with the cancer...

The good news is on Sunday, she was able to move out of the ICU and back up to a regular hospital room so Teya is once again able to visit. As for the next steps, we are pushing to get checked out of the hospital, hopefully as soon as tomorrow, and try to set up hospice at home. Tina just doesn't think she can fight like she will need to cooped up in a hospital room, and we all agree. Nothing like being home! We talked to the 'Hospice of the Valley' today, and as long as we can get checked out of here, we have them on board to get us all set up at home so they can help us care of her, and get back on the path to fighting this disease. Note though, while Tina's surrounds might have changed, her condition hasn't, so still no visitors - hope everyone understands...

As for Tina, she is an amazing person...and I can’t express the strength and fight she has. There have been a number of times where Doctor's have seemed to be ready to put her on 'Comfort Care', and just let everything play out. Talking with her though, they always change their minds when they see the strength and drive she has. It is amazing. She is actually very much at peace with what is going on. No pity, no 'feel sorry for me' attitude. She says she can defiantly feel all the prayers that everyone is sending her way, and helps to give her the peace and strength that she has.

Finally, thank you to everyone for the fund raisers, yard sales, lemonade stands, etc. as people try to raise money for Team Pale Skin Is In. It is amazing generosity that all of you have displayed, and it is much, much appreciated to alienate a huge burden on our family. Also, thank you for all the prayers, kind words, calls, emails, texts, etc. While we might not be able to get back to each of you individually, know that we appreciate it. Know as much as you are thinking of us, we are thinking of you…we have an amazing network of family and friends...

Mom Here Prayers Needed

2011-06-05T13:06:00.000-07:00

Please stop right now and pray for Tina's heart. Her heart has began to fail and is being move to ICU as I type. I believe in the power of prayer and all of Tina's prayer Warriors. Please, Please she needs you NOW. Her heart is only functioning at 15% RIGHT NOW.

Update from Mom

2011-05-30T21:12:00.000-07:00

Tina had grown strong enough and received her 2nd Chemo treatment today. Everything went well and she rested tons after. She was able to get in a chair for many hours this evening. Everything the doc's and nurses are doing to help her gain strength is enlighting to watch. She was able to get a family suite at the hospital which is wonderful for Teya to visit her in. Teya came for her first visit two days ago after not seeing mommy for Seven full days. It was a wonderful visit for both. Teya is able to continue visiting Tina once or twice a day. Teya cheers when she sees mommy in a chair. We all love the baby steps she has been taking.
Her Aunt Shelly has been here since last Wed. She's also from Michigan and will be leaving on Wed morning. She has been a blessing for Tina, her family and myself.
Little reminder if you feel you want to sent flowers, please refrain and click the donate button in the top right corner instead. Cards are more than welcome just sent them to Tina's home and Todd makes sure she gets all of them.
Once again none of this would be possible without the grace of God and your prayers.

Update from Tina's mom

2011-05-28T20:17:00.001-07:00

Many things have taken place since we've last posted. But the first thing I would like to say is your PRAYERS are working keep them coming.

Since the stents were placed on Tuesday Tina has been very ill. She has been a strong woman through it all. God has truly given her strength through your prayers. ICU was able to stabilize Tina and she was moved late last night to the Cancer floor to continue her battle. Our little warrior had yet another procedure this afternoon. They needed to place a tube in her colon to release the gases and some fluid. Since the stents Tina's bowel has yet to become active. The procedure went as planned and they were able to release the gas and some fluids. She also had another abdominal tap to relieve yet more fluids. She rested fairly well for hours. She remains getting her nutrition from a nutrition bag now for almost two weeks. These nutrition's help keep her to stay strong and to continue her fight.

Tina started physical therapy yesterday to help her get out of bed after being bed ridden for almost a full seven days. So for the next few days they will continue working with her helping to get her into a chair and hopefully start taking a few more steps every day.

Tina was due to have her second Chemo treatment on Friday but due to her health was unable to receive it. We are very hopeful with the new procedure she will be able to get the second Chemo treatment in the next few days.

As we watch Tina on this journey she has inspired many people here, doctors, nurses and those loved ones around here with her courage. But for all of you who have followed Tina these past five years you will not find this as any surprise.

In closing Tina asked that I share that all though she appreciates texts to her and calls. Do to the severity of her condition, she is not able to answer anyone at this time.

Keep the prayers coming because you are God's people and he is listening to you.

Procedure completed...

2011-05-24T12:21:00.001-07:00

Quick update on Tina's procedure this AM...Todd here...

Seems all went pretty well. They were able to get 2 seperate stents into her colon, which covered the majority of the affected area. While there was still a tiny bit that was not covered by a stent, he was very happy with the results so that is good news! It was really important to get this procedure done so we can get Tina back on the road to recovery, so we are very thankful it went well! As always, thanks for the thoughts and prayers...

Prayers needed

2011-05-24T04:40:00.001-07:00

Yesterday I had two successful procedures (I'll post specifics later). Today, Tuesday the 24th, I am having a very important procedure done. It is scheduled for 9am. A stent is being put into my colon. Please pray for successful placement. Thank you!

Welcome to the Home of Team Pale Skin Is In

2011-05-22T15:23:00.009-07:00

Friends and Family have created a Foundation support me. Below is an excerpt from the home page.
==========================================================

Welcome to the Home of Team Pale Skin Is In

Simply stated, we are family and friends of Tina Sullivan who are united in support of her battle against stage IV Melanoma.

Tina is fighting valiantly and it is our vow to stand beside her. We share her discomfort, we share her joys. Most importantly, we ask that you join us. We have created Team Pale Skin Is In to serve as a foundation for which funds will be raised to assist the Sullivan family with medical expenses, treatment programs and other expenses incurred related to her fight. All proceeds go directly to the Sullivan family.

You can click on title of this blog or Website Address: http://www.paleskinisin.org/Default.aspx

An update...

2011-05-21T21:00:00.001-07:00

Greetings all, Todd here...

Just wanted to give everyone a quick update, as it has been an eventful few days for Tina. She has now been in the hospital since Monday (and is actually now in ICU since this morning). Doctor's really have no idea what is all going on with her...

Ever since she got here on Monday, it has been a continual race to try to get her better, but once they finally seem to get one of her symptoms in line, it seems something else starts acting up. While she was originally admitted to the hospital for dehydration (she couldn't swallow), she then started to have both abdominal and back pain, which have finally been taken care of. She also has problems swallowing due to her tongue having sores all over (while common for chemo patients, they think it might be some type of infection). Finally, last night we got a scare, as around 5 AM her heart rate spiked and she had a 103 temperature, which has landed her in ICU. Her temperature and heart rate are down, but the doctors are still trying to find some answers. The poor girl just cant get a break...

Anyway, just a quick update...will keep everyone posted on how she is doing. As of now, no idea on when she will be getting out, but it isn't looking like anytime soon. Of course prayers and positive thoughts are always appreciated!

MRI Results

2011-05-18T22:13:00.000-07:00

Quick update, MRI results are awesome - no melonoma!! PICC line is in and I will be receiving my first nutrition iv this evening. It actually just arrived! I look forward to getting some much needed nutrition. I also have a pain pump that was installed last night. Been having a little trouble remembering to use it, but glad it is in. Latest update is that I woke up this morning about 4am with back pain. Not lower back pain, it was up underneath my rib cage and caused a lot of pain and shortness of breathe - still is. Had a X-Ray to determine what it is. Results are not in yet. Will update as soon as I know.

In hospital

2011-05-17T13:39:00.000-07:00

Sorry, this update is from my phone, so it is short. Since my last post, I was not feeling well. I wasn't eating, sleeping, could barely get out of bed. the progression of the cancer in my abdominal was fast. monday i went to er as i woke up and could not swallow. once there i had an mri of throat which did not show anything. docs then learned i was extremely dehydrated and admitted me to hospital. i have been receiving fluids and feel a little better. still cannot eat, so that is a major concern. trying to get a picc line put in and get nutrients that way which is iv. Tumors are causing a lot of pain that we are trying to manage. also just got back from mri of brain to check for melanoma. i have not been having symptoms. just checking.

Again, sorry so short. Just wanted everyone to know what is going on

Results

2011-05-07T11:07:00.000-07:00

Sorry it took so long for me to update. I am not feeling well. I'll start from the beginning. On Monday, I went to my OB as I had been experiencing abdominal bloating and pain. We thought it was my IUD. IUD was just placed as it was needed for me to qualify for clinical trial. OB couldn't locate IUD so she did an ultrasound (thank goodness it was Monday as their tech is there on Mondays). She found IUD, which was out of place, and she also found liquid and a mass. I then went to see Mr. Wonderful (Gordon) and he ordered an MRI of abdomen. His nurses are superwomen as they were able to get me in that day. The MRI showed a 14 cen tumor along with other nodules. I asked for a biopsy and with the magic of the supernurses, we did on Wednesday. My stomach was so bloated that I looked like I was about 8 months pregnant and I was in a lot of discomfort. On Thursday I was able to have the fluid drained and we drained 7lbs of fluid! Results from biopsy came back on Thursday and it's melanoma. I began chemo on Friday. The treatment is once every 3 weeks and I'm on it for as long as it is working. Best info I could find online:

http://www.cancer.org/Treatment/TreatmentsandSideEffects/GuidetoCancerDrugs/DACARBAZINE

Side effects of the chemo are pretty manageable and I haven't experienced them that I know of. I say that as for the past week I have been experiencing pain/discomfort in my abdomen due to the tumor and liquid, "heart burn" which is causing vomitting, slight nausea, no appetite and trouble sleeping. I have been a pretty sick lady.

During this time Todd was out of town for a work conference in Orlando. Thank God for Cathy, Claudia and Annette. Cathy stayed with me all week with the exception of one, which Claudia came over and then took me to my biopsy appointment. I could not have made it through the week without them. I was in so much pain and discomfort, I could barely walk and could not care for myself. These ladies were the best care takers I could have had and words are good enough, but thanks ladies! Annette picked up Teya everyday from school and kept her for a few hours. This gave Teya much needed time away from sick momma. Again, words are not enough to express how much this helped, but Thanks Annette. Todd got back Thursday night and my mom flew in Friay morning. My dad comes out Tuesday afternoon.

Prayers Needed

2011-05-03T19:26:00.000-07:00

Prayer/Positive Vibe Warriors, I am in need of your loving supprt. I have not felt very well over the past few weeks. We've figured out the cause and I have a biopsy tomorrow. I need a miracle, I need benign.

Results should be in on Friday and I'll post all the information sometime over the weekend.

Thanks everyone!

Port is coming out

2011-04-20T09:01:00.002-07:00

So, today is the day. My port is being removed. I'm so happy to get rid of this thing! Change of plans though. Poor Claudia's car broke down yesterday, so CB is going with me til my procedure and then Todd is picking me up. It is a day long process. I'm checking in at 9:30 and the procedure is scheduled for 11:30. The port removal should take about an hour and then I'll have an hour of recovery at the hospital before I can go home, so I'll be there til around 2:30 today. Can't wait for the day to be over and be port free!! Also can't wait to drink something and eat something. I have to fast and I'm SO thirsty and hungry. Ugh! Anyway, I'll let you all how it goes.

New Derm & Port Removal

2011-04-13T21:59:00.000-07:00

I went and saw a new dermatologist on Monday. I found them on a friend's facebook page and then found out that Todd is working on their website - is that a sign or what! Anyway, I really like her. She is much more thorough than my other derm. The new derm uses a "magnifying glass" and looked at every mole. I had 3 I wanted her to take a look at and we removed those. She also diagramed them and took pictures of 9, 7 of which we will watch. I'm going back in 2 weeks to have 2 more removed. I'm not worried about those we have removed or the 2 we will remove. I guess I am at peace and feel that no matter what I'll be fine.

My nurse called to tell me that she scheduled my port to be removed Wednesday, April 20th! I can't wait! It'll be outpatient at Scottsdale Shea Hospital at 9:30am. I will not be put under, but will not be able to drive home. Claudia got up before the sun rose to drive me down to Tucson for the port placement and she'll be there with me for the removal. How awesome is that! Thanks SO much my friend!

Monthly Doc Visit

2011-04-02T10:08:00.000-07:00

I met with Dr. Wonderful (Gordon) on Monday, March 27th for another all is good chat. I have known I am in great hands, but during this visit we were talking about the approval of Yervoy and I mentioned something about staying on my current treatment and not changing and he said "over my dead body will you change" (& then discussed the reasons why). This is the bed side manner that I want from my doc. Personal and not sterile. I want him to have passion about me and not view me as another patient to experiment with, which is how I felt about my Tucson doc. His entire practice is full of positive energy and I can feel it as soon as I enter the building. During this visit I met a woman (70 something) and she was telling me her story. She has lung cancer and has been coming to the practice for 6 years for treatment. She is not NED, but what is left of her crazies have not been growing. Simply amazing! I"m telling you this as she was saying how wonderful and positive the doctors and nurses are at the practice. I have met quite a few paitients since December and all of them have been positive and optimistic. This atmosphere is so great for patients as it is a place of hope and that in itself is a treatment.

Oh, I can't believe I almost forgot. I asked if I could get my port removed. He seemed a little hesitant, but there isn't a need for it, so he said yes. Nothing has been scheduled yet, but I am so excited to have this thing out!! I'm just so tired of looking at it. It is a reminder of the awful IL-2 treatment that didn't work and I don't need that negative energy flowing. One of my nurses mentioned to me that even when their treatment is finished some patients don't like to get their port removed as they view it as a positive thing. My reply was that I got mine for a treatment that didn't work for me. The treatment made my cancer grow and spread. Get rid of the thing! Also it is such an eye sore! Sorry, but vanity does play a role. Cute summer dresses, tank tops and swim suits are upon us and I don't feel comfortable wearing any of them with a lump sticking out of my chest. My body is so full of scars and now bruises from the blood thinner shots, I just don't need an unnecessary eye sore to add to the mix.

Update on Melanoma Warrior

2011-03-29T20:16:00.000-07:00

Thank you prayer/positive vibe warriors for taking Chelsea. Adventures with my enemy, into your hearts. Her surgery went fantastic, she is recovering nicely at home and today she got the best news. The results are back from the lymph nodes that were removed from her neck and under arm and all are negative for melanoma. This is such a blessing! This brave young lady has a new outlook on life and I just know she will do amazing things! Congratulations Chelsea!!

FDA Approves New Melanoma Treatment - Yervoy

2011-03-25T16:53:00.001-07:00

What an exciting day!! The FDA has finally approved a new treatment for stage III and IV melanoma. It has been 13 years since the last treatment was approved and that was the nasty IL-2 that I did back in September/October that only has a 10% response rate. The new treatment was called IPI, the new name is Yervoy. I will not be changing my treatment, but I am SO happy that all other late stage warriors have this treatment option as a first line of defense versus a last resort.

Here is an article at Melanoma Research Foundation: http://www.melanoma.org/learn-more/fda-approval-new-melanoma-therapy-changes-landscape-patients

Here is an article from WebMD that has more information: http://www.webmd.com/melanoma-skin-cancer/news/20110325/fda-approves-new-melanoma-treatment-yervoy?ecd=wnl_nal_skin_032511

Prayers for a fellow Warrior

2011-03-24T11:45:00.000-07:00

I have been following a young women's blog - Adventures with my enemy . . . Melanoma - her name is Chelsea and she is 23 with stage 3 melanoma. Yes, 23 years old and battling this beast. This young lady is a fighter and has a team of supporters with her, but I would like to send in my troops. She is having another surgery today to remove lymph nodes from under her left arm and right side of her neck. My prayer/positive vibe warriors, you have all done so much for me. I'm now asking that you take a moment to send some to her and her family for calmness and strength today as she goes into surgery and for positive results afterwards (no melanoma). Thanks everyone!

Information on Treatments

2011-03-23T11:58:00.001-07:00

A fellow warrior, Melanaoma in the City, posted information on the newest melanoma treatments. It is a really good article. Here is the link if you would like to read it. FYI - GSK436 is the treatment I am on.

http://melanomaandthecity.blogspot.com/2011/03/more-info-on-some-treatments-out-there.html

Great News

2011-03-10T22:10:00.000-07:00

CT results are back and they are much better than I imagined they could be. Dr. Gordon called to tell me that overall my tumors shrunk 60%. Some are gone while the rest have shrunk! Wow, there are no words for how happy I am. I was speechless after he told me the news. I expected good results, but not of this magnitude. Poor Todd when I went to tell him I was crying and he thought it was bad news. I was just overcome with emotion and relief I couldn't stop. I had to blurt out, it's not bad news.

I'll post more when I have the details, but for now thank you Lord, prayer warriors and positive vibe senders. What a fantastic day!

Where has the time gone??

2011-03-04T14:36:00.001-07:00

Geez, where did the last month go! Well it seemed to fly by, but the good thing is I feel great! 2 months of treament now under my belt. I have my CT scan scheduled for March 10th. I look foward to the results and see the progress the treatment has made.

I don't think I wrote about my allergic reaction to the contrast dye for the CT scan. It seems I now am allergic to the dye used during my CT scans. During the last 2 scans, once the contast dye was injected I got hives all over my body. I was hot, itchy and miserable. The reaction during my last CT also included severe pelvic pain. I was rushed to the hospital via Ambulance as SMIL (CT scan place) didn't know what was happening. Not fun. So, now I have to get my scans done at the hospital. I'll be pre-treated with steriods for 3 days prior which we are hoping will combat some of the reaction. Let's hope so!

In addition to my BRAF treatment, I began high dose vitamen C (or ascorbic acid). This is given through an IV. This treatment is being given to me because it is anti-inflammatory, anti-melanoma and immune system activating. It also helps the body to resist spread of melanoma. If you are interested in more information, there are some great lectures at http://www.riordanclinic.org/education/symposium.shtml.

An update on Vita - I love, love, love Vita!! I use her at least once per day and have made so many yummy things. My morning smoothie, peanut butter, almond butter, almond milk, soups and to chop cabbage and cilantro for a salad (this was cool as you place the cabbage and cilantro in Vita and then add water to cover. Turn it on quick and shut off. Drain in strainer and you have choopped cabbage and cilantro.). I love making my own foods! They taste so much better and there are no yucky added extras to worry about.

Feeling Great

2011-02-07T17:42:00.000-07:00

A quick post to let everyone know that I am still feeling great. I had a "check-up" with the fab, Dr. Gordon, last week and everything looks good. The tumor under my left breast is still tiny. Dr. Gordon was excited to hear the news (I waited to tell him in person) and said that sometimes when a tumor dies it doesn't completely go away. Kind of like scar tissue will be left behind. I had a derm appointment in January and my skin looked normal. (My treatment has been known to cause non-melanoma skin cancers, so this is very good news.)

I'll keep you posted, have a great week!

Photos from fundraiser

2011-02-03T14:43:00.002-07:00

Finally got around to posting some photos from the race. You can view additional photos on the Pale Skin Is In Facebook Community page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Pale-Skin-Is-In/183508871660875?ref=ts

Group Photo at Beginning of Race

Teya all bundled up - it was a chilly morning!

The traveling cheerleaders: Me, Teya and Claudia

The guys

The ladies

Another pic of the ladies

Slash and Axle

Chris and Ang ( in from VA for the race)

The Feuerstein Family made a sign - love it!

Jim and Ethan cheering

Cheerleaders: Kaleigh, Tanner and Hunter

Cheerleaders: Lisa, Kaden, Linda, Jordon, Rob, Janie, Reed and Ryan

Group Photo at end of Race

At lunch: Jon, Michelle and Gentry

(Gentry is who designed the logo - he's awesome!)

A heart felt thanks

2011-01-17T18:20:00.003-07:00

This is a hard post to write as there is so much I want to say and so much to be thankful for and it is hard to find the right words to do the thank you justice. Also, I have to keep wiping my eyes as the emotional uplifting I had this past week is still with me.

It all started with my husband Todd wanting to run the P.F. Chang's Rock 'n' Roll 1/2 Marathon and raise funds for melanoma. He got the word out and brought 14 other runners together to form the first Team Pale Skin Is In. Awesome! Our runners: Todd Sullivan, Cathy Martin, Jon Martin, Jessica Snow, Leslie Carlone, Pete Carlone, Chris Just, Ang Just, Rich Whalen, Mike Norton, Anna Schettino, Dennis Heptig, Amanda Lewis, Mandy Ghetti Chadwick and Joe Landucci. I am sincerely proud of each runner. You Rock! And I don't just mean Slash and Axle :)

A big THANKS goes out to Gentry Smith (Gentry Smith Designs), who created our logo and designed the shirts. I LOVE the logo and the team looked fabulous. You are amazing!

Thursday, CB dropped by with a gift - a Vita Mix blender! I have wanted one for so long and I was just starting to save up for one, when knock knock - one arrived at my doorstep via friends. Vita is so awesome and I am so excited about all the things I can make and the nutritional impact it will have - ya know I'm all about healthy food! Thank you so much to the following families: Martin, Partridge, Valociek, Sutton, Dun, Snow, Just and Carlone.

Friday was the Pre-Race dinner and the day I picked up the team shirts. The magnitude of the support hit me on my way home from picking up the shirts. I had been so busy with my treatment and planning for the event that I think it took the weight of the box of shirts to rock my soul. All I know is, I was about half way home when I began crying. And I mean really crying. At first I couldn't figure out what was happening and I thought I was going to have to stop the car. Then my inner self spoke to me and translated my body's reaction - you are loved by many. I was finally relaxed enough to feel the enormity of support/love that I have be given. It was a lot to take in all at once, but beautiful.

That night at the Pre-Race Dinner my love fest continued as everyone arrived. It was the first party we've ever had that I didn't feel stressed about the preparations. I was on cloud nine just knowing that everyone would be together and enjoyed every minute. It was a fabulous night!

The P.F. Chang's Rock 'n' Roll 1/2 Marathon was yesterday and it was a spectacular day filled with friends, love and laughter. My heart was filled with joy as I saw each runner pass by, as the cheerleaders supported the team along the way, as I walked up to the meeting place and saw all the team together for the first time and then again as I walked into Ruby Tuesday having everyone gathered once again.

I wanted to say something when we were all together either at the pre-race dinner or day of the event, but I didn't think I could have gotten through any type of speech. I didn't know then nor do I know now how to put into words the enormity of love I felt when I was in the car, at the dinner and then when I walked up to our meeting place and saw 30+ people gathered wearing Pale Skin Is In shirts. This past week I felt all warm and fuzzy, but when I saw everyone together at the end of the race, it was overwhelming and I felt like my heart exploded out of my chest. Between the pride I felt for the runners and joy of having so many friends at this event, my soul was filled with warmth as I accepted and took in all the love and support. Thank you everyone!

I want to give a special thanks to Chris, Ang and Kelsey for flying to AZ for the event. It was awesome that you could be there with all of us. Although you moved back East, you have remained in all our hearts. And for the weekend, our group was complete. It was awesome!

Another special thanks to those of you who donated to the team. As I watch the list of names scroll by; some I know, some I haven't spoken to in years and some I don't know at all. All of you supporting me and melanoma research and all making a difference. The choice that everyone of you made to support the team and melanoma adds to my overwhelming sense of joy. Thank you so much!

This was the first Pale Skin Is In fundraising effort and we raised $4580! Wow, that is awesome! Words can't express my gratitude to everyone who supported the team through running, cheering and/or donating. But I sure gave it my best :)

Making a Difference

2011-01-17T14:55:00.000-07:00

I just had to share this story of what happened to me today as it is amazing how the little things we do can make an impact on another. I re-use the plastic produce bags that you get at the grocery store. I have about 10 that I use along with my re-usable grocery bags. I reallly want to invest in cloth produce bags, but that would mean throwing away my plastic ones and I just have a hard time doing that. So for now, I re-use what I have. Anyways, I went to Sprouts today and was getting avacados. I pulled out one of my re-used bags and a lady who was just reaching for a plastic produce bag looked at me with a surprised look and our conversation went something like:

Her: "Wow, good for you!"
Me: "I can't throw them away."
Her: "It's the little things that make a difference."
Me: "I agree. I have a daughter and I think about her."
Her: "I don't have kids, but I think about all the children and the place they will have to live. Some people just don't care." (I thought - WOW, I like this woman)
Me: "They either don't care about the negative impact plastic bags have on the environment because it isn't physically effecting them now or they don't believe what they can't see."
Her: "Yes, it is sad. This is the only place we have to live."
Me: "Yes, so let's take care of it."

Later, I saw her in the store and she came up to me and said "Thanks for opening my eyes today." To which I responded, "Thanks for noticing!" What a feeling this was. It is such a small thing that I am doing and really I don't think that much about it. But it felt great to have someone notice and maybe she will re-use her plastic produce bags from now on. I guess we can all be role models and make an impact even with the smallest of things.

Great News!

2011-01-13T20:32:00.001-07:00

Now that I have spoken with my mom, I would like to share the good news with all of you. Remember that lump that I found under my left breast? Well, it has shrunk to almost nothing! It was about 2 centimeters by 1 centimeter and now it is the size of a pea. I can barely feel it! I have only been on the full treatment for a week and a half and have already seen results. Amazing!! My CT won't be until early March to look at my insides, but the shrinking of this tumor is a good indication of what we may see. So happy!

Feeling Great

2011-01-12T21:20:00.001-07:00

I've been on my full dose treatment for a little over a week now and I am happy to report that I feel great! So far, I have not experienced any severe side effects. Thank you Lord for guiding me to this treatment and thank you for all the prayers and positive thoughts that are said for me. I have a wonderful sense of peace and strength that I know not only comes from within me, but comes from all of you and what you do for me.

Thank you very much!

PF Chang's Rock and Roll 1/2 Marathon

2011-01-01T14:05:00.000-07:00

I am not a runner, but my husband and a great group of friends is running in Arizona's PF Chang's 1/2 Marathon on January 16th in honor of Team Pale Skin Is In to raise awareness and funds for Melanoma. Currently, we have 14 runners, but the number seems to be increasing daily. A great friend, Gentry Smith, designed a logo for Pale Skin Is In and T-Shirts which runners and families will be wearing on race day. We are going to look great!

If you would like to join the running team, let me know and I can get you the details. Not a runner, like me :), you can still support the team with a donation. Our fundraising page link is on the right side of my blog.

Thanks and Happy New Year!!

Happy New Year

2010-12-31T10:53:00.004-07:00

Just finished my second week of the trial! Hooray!! On Monday I will begin receiving the drug in it's full dose. I am so looking forward to it and seeing all the amazing things it will do. Just as a reminder, this drug is not a cure, but rather a band-aid (who cares as long as the crazies are not growing!). I'll be taking it as long as it is working for me, which could be years or until there is another treatment that is better for me.

Teya is sitting here with me and we just finished watching Kris Carr's vlog together. I love sharing her messages with Teya. Don't know her - well you should check her out. She's the friend I've never met. Her blog is Crazy Sexy Life and the link is on my blog list. She is the most inspirational woman I know and because of her, I am as healthy as I am. I may have cancer, but I am still healthier than I have ever been - physically and mentally. She introduced me to the plant based diet including green smoothies and green juice as well as yoga and meditation. Don't know where I would be today without her.

Last day of 2010. Although there were a few black clouds, it was a great year for me. Blessings are everywhere in my life and now is a good time to reflect on the past year. I got to spend a lot of time with family. From visits in AZ, a summer of vacationing with family to Disney World. We had some really good times this past year and those memories will last forever. I have the best friends a girl could ask for and this year has brought us closer together. It is amazing the good that comes from the bad. This past year has shown me the love of those around me and how supportive friends and family can be. They have given me laughter and been there to listen and encourage. I felt the love of so many through phone calls/texts/emails/blog comments, prayers, meals, house cleanings, handmade blankets and all the other thoughtful gifts I have received. You all make me stronger and I give thanks to all of you.

I can't say the year was bad when I felt so much love throughout the year. So as I say good-bye to 2010, it is with a smile and warm heart. Not, thank goodness it is over. I look forward to all the joy and blessings that 2011 will bring into my life. I hope the same for you.

Happy New Year!

Second week of treament

2010-12-27T09:37:00.001-07:00

I am again at my doc's office for my second dose. I took it about an hour ago and I feel great. Tired from the Christmas extravaganza weekend, but other than that, I feel great. I'll be here for another 10+ hours today and in every morning for a blood draw. This is the last full day and week of daily blood draws as this is the last week of the two week trial. Beginning in January, I'll be in the rollover study and will receive the full dose which I'll take at home and see the doc once a month. I'm thankful that I was able to get into the 2 week trial but I look forward to getting into the rollover study and getting the full dose.

Great week

2010-12-23T14:13:00.001-07:00

This week has gone great. No side effects and I'm excited to be on this treatment. Monday the 27th will be my second and final week of the study. One more 11+ hour day and one more week of daily blood draws then I am finished and will begin taking the drug at home. I look forward to receiving the full dose and not having daily blood draws. A small price to pay for getting what I want, but I'll still be happy to not have a daily poke.

Last Monday my good friend Claudia came to doctor's office and brought me lunch and stayed with me for 4 hours. We had vegan chili and a salad. Oh and she made me celebration cookies. (She's a dessert chef ya know. Check her out - http://www.roomfordessertonline.com/ ) Her celebration cookes are the best in the whole world!! Teya thinks so as well. Lunch was terrific, but her company was fantastic. Thanks Claudia!! You are such a great friend and I am so blessed to have you in my life. You can make me laugh like no one else and your stength empowers me to be a better leader for myself. Thanks for everything!

Ok, Teya and I are going to make some Christmas cookies. I'll post some pictures once were finished.

Happy Holidays everyone!

First day of treatment

2010-12-20T09:09:00.004-07:00

I am sitting at my doctor's office and just took my first dose! I am in a 2 week clinical trial and I will need to be here today for 10+ hours. Yep, 10 hours. Claudia is visiting me today and bringing lunch. What an awesome friend she is!! Today and then again on Monday the 27th, I will need to have blood drawn every 30 minutes for the first 2 hours and then every 2 hours after that up until 10 hours. It is a part of the trial to measure absorption and then how the body gets rid of the drug - Tuesday - Friday of this week and next I'll come in once a day for a blood draw. During the 2 week trial the dosage will not be the normal dose. After these two weeks, I'll get rolled over into getting the drug without any of the blood draws and it will be the full dosage. I"ll be taking the drug at home once a week. I'll then see the doctor once a month and get scans every 8 weeks. I'll be on the treatment for as long as it is working. My doc explained it like this. If you have a pipe with a leak and you put your hand over the lead, the leak stops. If you take your hand off, the pipe leaks. This treatment has not been proven to cure, but manage. That is fine with me. As long as there isn't growth, tumors don't hurt you.

Side effects should be minimal, but with everything it is a wait and see game. The drugs effect everyone differently, so we'll see what effects it has on me. Should be minimal nausea and fatigue with the most common side effect being non-melanoma skin cancers. My skin will be checked once a month for any changes. I'll have photographs taken of my skin to compare. If anything looks funky, we'll remove it. There hasn't been any cases of having melanoma lesions only non-melanoma.

I also found a lump just below my left breast. My doc looked and it is on my last CT scan, but was not indicated by the radiologist. He says it is not in the breast tissue and is just under the skin which leads him to believe it is a melanoma tumor. We are not going to biopsy it, but will keep a close eye on it. Once I am on the treatment I should be able to feel it getting smaller. A good indication it is working before I have a scan. I'll have a scan just before I begin the rollover (full dose) so that we know the size of the crazies. This will ensure that we are comparing before and after treatment sizes. This is just in case there was growth or shrinkage since my last scan in November.

Have I mentioned how much I LOVE my new doc? Not only is Dr. Gordon highly knowledgeable about Melanoma (YES!), he is also one of the most caring doctors I have met along my journey. During our initial consultation, he thoroughly answered all our questions and we didn't feel rushed. We were at his office for over an hour during which he left the room to research some questions. Seriously! I haven't had a doctor yet that has left the room to research a question. Nothing against my Tucson buddies, but there we left without all our questions being answered with a "come back and see me in a week" response. Another 4 hour round trip drive and co-pay later we may have our answers. I also need to rave about all of the nurses and staff. They are all so friendly. Everyone I pass smiles and says hello. Awesome doc with wonderful nurses, I couldn't be happier!
Anyhoo, I'm really excited to begin today and have the drug begin to work in my body.

I'll keep everyone posted.

More Great News!

2010-12-11T16:09:00.002-07:00

No Chemo!!!!!!! The doctor, Dr. Gordon, I saw on Friday is running a trial with the B-raf drug. I start the 20th. The drug is a pill that I will take at home and there are little side effects. This is one of the drugs I wanted and I'm so excited. I'm getting ready for The Martin Christmas Party, so I'll post more later. I just wanted to tell everyone the good news.

Some good news!

2010-12-08T21:26:00.001-07:00

Finally remembered to call my doc and got my MRI Results which were good - NED (no evidence of disease). Yipee!! I needed some good news. Thank you God for keeping my brain healthy!

I have an appointment with a new doc on Friday. His office is also running the clinical trial that the Arizona Cancer Center docs want me in. Good thing is he is in Scottsdale, about 15 minutes from home. I'm hoping to get a recommendation from this guy and not just information regarding the trial. I did hear back from one of our friend Jaci's contacts at UCLA and he is recommending I pursue a more recent treatment. (Can't say it enough - thanks Jaci!!) I am definately on board with this type of thinking. It is just trying to find the drugs/trial I need. He gave me some things to ask my doc in Tucson and I look forward to getting the answers on Tuesday when I travel down there. I have been unable to get an appointment at Mayo until 12/30 which I think will be to late. I'm not sure I am comfortable waiting that long to begin a treatment.

Other than waiting around for docs to call, I still feel great! Went to yoga last night and it was amazing. Just what I needed. Can't wait for tomorrow night's class already.

I'll update again after my appointment on Friday.

No News

2010-12-06T17:15:00.000-07:00

I got no news from anyone today. I'll keep you all posted as I hear anything from my docs and specialists.

MRI

2010-12-05T11:01:00.000-07:00

I did not receive the results of my MRI on Friday. I was really busy. It was my last day at the school and then after work I went straight to Teya's school to volunteer in her class. After school she has gymnastics until 4. My doctor's office closes at 4 and I didn't remember until after then. I am taking it as a good sign that they did not call. If it is bad news, then tend to call right away. Once I speak with them tomorrow, I'll update.

We went out last night to celebrate our friend's, Rob Sutton, birthday. It was so much fun to be with good friends for an evening out. Most I hadn't seen a long while. I am so blessed to have great friends that speak their concern and love with tight hugs and not words. I wasn't sure what to expect, but was so thankful to have a night of catching up and laughter with friends without discussing the big C.

Have a great Sunday!

Results

2010-12-01T21:41:00.001-07:00

I got my results from my CT Scan and they were not good. They were actually worse than I could have expected. The tumors in my lungs have grown and now there are more. There is also a new .5 centimeter mass where my right kidney used to be. I don't even know how to put my emotions into words except, I'm devastated. Beyond this crap though, I feel great. All of my blood work came back healthy and my lungs sound great nor do I have shortness of breath or pain.

I had an appointment with my onc in Tucson and his recommendation is a clinical trial that is testing a breast cancer chemo against an approved melanoma chemo (ABI-001 vs. DTIC). It is a radomized study. I'm not confident in this treatment option as there is another drug that is proven to be successful with Melanoma. The drug was suposed to be approved by the FDA Chrismas Eve, but they postponed it until March 2011 to get additional data. There is an open study for this drug at MD Anderson in Houston, TX. My Uncle Art and Aunt Diane live there and I know they would take care of me if this is where I need to be for treatment.

So, anyways, this is a difficult decision and I am seeking other opinions to make sure that the treatment we choose is right for me. I'm hoping to get an appointment with The Mayo clinic in Scottsdale. I faxed them my medical records Tueday night and I hope to hear from them tomorrow. Also a wonderful friend of ours, Jaci, is helping us find other opinions through her contacts in the world of cancer. We are so grateful for all she is doing for me.

Any of the treatments that are available will wipe out my immune system as well as possibly kick my butt with numerous other potential side effects. I could be in treatment for the next 6+ months. Because of this I have to quit my position at the Pre-School and this Friday will be my last day. I am so sad to have to leave. As one of the teacher's (Miss Laura) put it, it is my happy place and it will be hard to leave such great co-workers (who really are a second family) and great children and their families. Friday will be a hard day for me.

Due to the spreading of my cancer, I am having an MRI of brain tomorrow. We need to ensure that this nasty stuff hasn't made a home there as if so that would be a totally different treatment. Should have the results on Friday.

I am praying for guidance in my decision and healing.

No news

2010-11-20T21:45:00.001-07:00

No news to report. We leave in the morning to Disney World for the week of Thanksgiving. We're meeting Todd's family there. We are excited!

I'll update when we return.

Happy Thanksgiving to all!

Finally Feeling Better

2010-10-24T12:58:00.000-07:00

Sorry it took so long for me to update. This round was much more difficult than the first. I don't want to go into the details as I was miserable, but I will say I didn't feel good until Friday. The lingering ailments are fatigue and nausea. I am wiped out by 9 and the nausea is only in the morning now and goes away with breakfast. I'll have a scan on November 19 to determine the success of the treatment.

So, I am finally feeling better - thank goodness! I was able to go into Teya's class on Friday for their Fall party and yesterday we went to Schnepf Farms. Had a good time at both and was thankful that I felt so good. Below are some pictures of the past month.

Teya's Sock Hop

Cowgirl ready for Hoedown Party

Fall Party in class

Schnepf Farms

Petting Zoo

Hay Maze

She loved the big slide

I also took a ride down

Teya loved the corn maze

Teya coming down big slide

Round 1, Part 2 done...

2010-10-15T22:46:00.001-07:00

Hey all, Todd here. Well, Tina has officially completed Round 1, part 2. She finished last night, completing 11 of 12 treatments...one more than last time! She had some low blood pressure issues at the beginning of the week, but those seemed to clear up and she was able to get through it. She is a superstar!

She will be heading home sometime Saturday, and her mom is staying this time though Tuesday, which is great news. I can be the best care giver I can, but nothing like having her mom here. Sunday and Monday were miserable for Tina last time, with constant chills, sweats, flu like symptoms, and basic drug withdraw symptoms, so hopefully this time those are minimize. Last time by Tuesday things started to get a bit better, hope the same holds true this time around...

Anyway, Tina will update once she is able, but just wanted to give you guys the latest...

Feeling Good

2010-10-08T17:27:00.000-07:00

Sorry, I haven't been up for blogging. I came home on Saturday afternoon and was in bed for the day/night. Woke up Sunday not feeling well. I had chills and sweats all day. And I really mean all day. I didn't have even 5 minutes when I wasn't cold and sweaty. This lasted from 5am Sunday morning until 7am Monday morning. Thank goodness I felt well enough to travel down to Tucson to see Dr. Hersh. Once there, he informed me that the chills/sweats that I had been experiencing was a great thing. It means that my immune system is working in high gear and pumping out the good stuff that kills tumors. This was great news! Made it easier to deal with the symptoms knowing that my body was fighting. Also found out that my Lymphocytes counts were up. These are the cells that target and kill tumors. Again, great news!

Monday - Wednesday I felt like I had the flu and then coming down from the flu. Finally on Thursday I felt better. I was able to take Teya to school - first day driving in a week and a half! Then spent the rest of the day with my friend Kelly. It was great to be out of bed and off the couch. Friday was another good day. I went in to Teya's class and helped with a paint project and then went back for her last gymnastics class. She got 2 1st place certificates and 1 2nd place. She was proud and I was proud of her. We are now getting ready for a Sock Hop dance at her school. She is so excited. I got her a cute pink satin dress with poodle on skirt. I'll post pictures of her all dolled up.

I don't know how to begin thanking everyone for your support. Thanks for the phone calls, cards, flowers, emails, texts, prayers, visits, dinners, etc. All have made the last weeks manageable. Every word of support and encouragement has lifted my spirits and made me stronger. This is a difficult treatment and your support has meant a lot to me and my family. As I gear up for next week, I get strength from the support that you all have given me. I look at the flowers and cards, read the words of encouragement and it helps me get ready.

My mom gets in town Sunday morning and we look forward to spending the day with her before we head down to Tucson on Monday. Thank goodness she can be there with me. Couldn't do it without her.

A quick update...

2010-10-01T01:46:00.002-07:00

Greeting all....Todd here. Just wanted to give you guys a quick update...

I have been getting the play by play from Tina's mom down in Tucson, and it seems Tina has been a rock star! The overall treatment is suppose to be 14 treatments over the span of 5 days, but according to everyone, no one ever makes it to all 14. Making it to 10 is considered a 'success', and I guess that is Tina's doctors goal. Some only make it 6-8 treatments. Sometimes they will have you skip a treatment so the body can recover, getting other issues in line (low blood pressure, etc)...

Well, up until this afternoon, Tina was 9 for 9 in treatments! As the days have gone on, it seems that the treatments are starting to take their toll though. She seemed to be doing much better the first couple of days than recently...but I guess it is normal that the 3rd day brings more of the side effects. Evidently, she spent most of today just sleeping. Of course...no complaining...as sleep does a body good! She was actually suppose to get a 6PM Thursday night, but they ended up skipping it. She may get one more 2AM Friday, and it sound like that might be it...

Anyway, just a quick update. Once I talk to Tina/Rose, I will give you a better update until TIna can...

Getting Started

2010-09-27T17:00:00.000-07:00

Checked into the hospital at 1:00. My room is much bigger than I expected. I have a TV with DVD player, a bathroom, window (I can see the mountains), couch and recliner chair. I'm able to wear my own clothes and move around as much as I like.

Here is a picture from my room. I have one of Teya's pink fuzzy blankets and my own pillow. The pink cheers up the room.

I am now waiting for treament to begin. We were hoping to begin at 4, but we are running behind. I have met me doctor and nurses and they are fantastic. They are all experts on my treatment and I feel good about being in their care. They do have something to give me to help with most of the side effects, so that makes me feel better.

My monitors do not like me typing. I have the pulse thing on my finger and it keep setting off alarms. Pretty annoying.

I'll keep updating as I can.

Getting Ready

2010-09-26T23:39:00.000-07:00

I finished my tests and got my port put in on Friday. I'm sure I passed everything and am ready to begin. Getting the port was a smack in the face reality check and I am SO thankful that Claudia was there with me. She really helped get me through that day. I could be honest with her about how I was feeling and she helped keep things light with good conversation and humor.

My mom arrived this morning, thank goodness, and we spent the day relaxing and then shopping. I found out that I will be able to bring in food, my laptop, clothes, etc., so we bought some food and I made some food to bring. I wanted to have some comfort foods or foods I know I like to help me eat. I also got some new PJs - nice, soft and warm PJ's. Hopefully they will help keep me warm.

I am so thankful that my mom can be here with me. She is a great support and I know that she will make sure that I am taken care of. Todd will be here in Phoenix with Teya. I'm grateful that Teya will have one of her parents during this week. I am also thankful that a wonderful friend of mine, Annette, will be picking Teya up after school. I don't know what I would do without her. Her and my great friend Kelly have really helped us with Teya. They have picked her up from school and taken care of her whenever we have needed over the past weeks. They are a blessing to have in our lives.

There are so many others that I need to thank. All the ladies, teachers and moms, at my work, PFT. They have been such a support to me. They have taken turns bringing us dinner and this has really been great. And then there is the owner, Linda, and office manager, Kathy. They have been awesome with allowing me the time I need for surgery, dr. appts and now treatment. Thanks to Jeri who is my partner this year. This is her first year with the 3s and I haven't been able to be there for her. She has done a great job transitioning into the class with the help of Janet, who stepped in for me. Thank you Sarah for loaning me Eat Pray Love. It will be nice to have a new book to read. Then there is Linda P., who made us 2 casseroles and stopped by for visits. CB & Jon who loaned me movies and some books. All the people who have sent me cards and well wishes. Thanks to all the people who are praying for me. I can feel the support!

I feel truly blessed to have so many people in my life, some I know, some I don't, supporting me in so many ways. Thank you to everyone!

My mom and I head down to Tucson tomorrow morning. I have a dr.'s appointment to go over all the test results and then we'll contact the hospital to see if there is a bed ready. If so, we will go and get me checked in. I'll then begin treatment tomorrow afternoon/evening. This is what I am hoping for. I do not want to wait until Tuesday as this will push back my getting home by a day. As I type this I am nervous, but hopeful. This will be my miracle. At the end of these 20 days, I will be free of this cancer. This treatment will be hard, but the result will be worth it.

One of the hardest parts was telling Teya. I think this was harder than the treatment will be. I was honest with her and she knows about the cancer and the treatment. It is so hard to look your little girl in the face and tell her about this, but we were both strong. We cried, but mostly just talked about it. She is one great little girl and it will be hard to say good-bye to her in the morning.

I am going to try to blog while I am in the hospital, so I can keep everyone posted on how I am doing. Feel free to call. If I don't feel up to talking, I won't answer my phone and I'll return your call if I can.

I now need to try to get some sleep.

Treatment

2010-09-23T22:08:00.001-07:00

Sorry I haven't updated my blog this week has been a busy one and I'm a little overwhelmed. We have decided to do the IL-2 treatment and if all goes as planned, I'll begin on Monday. I have some pre-tests and then I'll be in the ICU so it just depends on if there is a bed available. Today I went down to Tucson for a Pulminary Function Test, passed that. A big THANK YOU to CB for driving with me. Tomorrow I will be back in Tucson for a Nucleaur Exercise Test and a Port Placement. An early THANK YOU to Claudia for coming with me for this trip and driving me home. Tomorrow won't be as easy as today. The port is an outpatient surgery and I'll be a little sore and out of it for the ride home. Also, I can't eat after midnight tonight until the port is in place which won't be until about 1 or 2 in the afternoon. Watch out, I'm going to be cranky.

Info about the stress test: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/007201.htm

Info about the Port: http://www.uwhealth.org/healthfacts/B_EXTRANET_HEALTH_INFORMATION-FlexMember-Show_Public_HFFY_1116944249855.html

Also, Todd and I spent 3 hours in the ER Wednesday night (everything is fine). I was having leg pain in my left calf all day Wednesday and I talked to my docs. They told me that the blood work that I had done on Tuesday resulted that the blood thinner I was on, warfarin, was not doing anything - meaning my blood levels were just like I wasn't taking medicine. So, they thought I may have a blood clot in my leg and sent me to the ER for an ultrasound. 3 hours later find out no blood clot, but that I have injured muscles and tendons in the calf of my leg. Thank goodness no blood clot and that the pain in my leg was explained. I just need to rest it as much as I can and it should heal itself.

I am so tired right now, I'm going to bed. I'll need to get up at 4am AZ to leave at 4:30am to be in Tucson by 7:15 to begin my day of lab work, stress test and port placement.

I'll update soon.

MRI Results - GOOD!

2010-09-21T10:47:00.000-07:00

Quick post to let everyone know that my MRI (brain) Results came back clean! On our way to Tucson now and will update later.

Thanks,
Tina

More Results

2010-09-19T14:35:00.000-07:00

Sorry it has taken me so long to post the results from my latest visit with my docs. I needed some time to process the information.

I met with doc and he confirmed that the tumor in my kidney was melanoma. We reviewed the results from my CT scan and he explained that I have 3 tumors on my lungs. A 7mm on my lower right lobe, a 8mm on my lower left lobe and a 2mm on my left lingula (small area of the left lung). He is not recommending surgery as he believes they are to small for a surgeon to find and since this is the second time a met has come to my lung (initial in 2008). He is recommending a chemo treatment. His first recommendation is a treatment called High Dose IL-2. It is nasty, but in the words of my doc, my best bet for a cure. Yes, he did use that word which I haven't heard him utter in the 4 years I have been working with him. In his experience this treatment has worked with melanoma patients with mets in their lungs. Although he believes this is my best option, I am scared of this treatment. It requires a 5 day stay in the hospital a 9 day break and then another 5 days. This is round 1. If it shows success (tumor shrinkage), then I would do a round 2. I would get a 15 minute infusion of the drug every 8 hours for the 5 days. Some of the side effects include vomitting/nausea, pain, itchy rashes, fatigue, kidney damage. That last one is the biggie for me as I now only have one. At this point I only know of the treatment being offered in Tucson (a 2 hour drive from Phoenix). If this is the treatment we choose, my mom is going to fly out here to be down there with me so Todd can stay in Phoenx with Teya. Teya will need to have one of her parents and as much normalcy to her life to get her through. This will make it easier on me as well knowing that she is at her home being taken care of.

I had a follow up PET/CT on Friday and will have an MRI of brain (no symptoms - standard follow up) on Monday. I am then heading back down to Tucson on Tuesday to discuss everything with my doc. I have a list of questions for him to help me decide. There are other treatments out there that I'll discuss with him. I am also looking into a second opinion with the Cancer Treatmet Center of America in Good Year, AZ.

Here is information regarding the IL-2 treatment: http://skincancer.about.com/od/treatmentoptions/a/interleukin.htm

The other treatments that are less toxic are:

Ipilimumab, this is the one that has been in the news. I can't get it right now for 2 reasons: 1) I haven't failed another chemo treatment and 2) my tumors are not at least 1 cm. This drug is going to be reviewed by the FDA on December 25, 2010 and will hopefully be approved soon after. This drug has been in clinical trials for 10 years and is really promising as it is showing long term results. 1-2 years NED (no evidence of disease).

PLX 4032 - There is a BRAF mutation that has been found for melanoma tumors. Mine is being tested and if it comes back positive this might be an option for me, but it isn't showing long term "cure". It has shown close to a 80% response rate in terms of tumor shrinkage or stopping of growth, which is fantastic news, but then progression of growth is shown about 8 months later in a large number of patients. If I do have this mutation then I would like to discuss my case with the docs running the trial to get more information.

I'll keep posting as I get information and make decisions.

Thanks,
Tina

Cosmopolitan teams up with Melanoma Research Foundation

2010-09-18T09:34:00.002-07:00

I just found out the magazine, Cosmopolitan, has teamed up with the Melanoma Research Foundation to raise awareness for safe fun practices. Cosmo is setting up a grant for MRF which will go towards new research for treatment. The last treatment that was approved for treating advanced melanoma (like mine) was back in 1998 and this treatment is only about 15% effective. We are in desperate need of new treatments.

With a donation of $10, you receive a matte-gold cord bracelet. A donation of $25 will get you 3 bracelets.

Here is the press release which includes information regarding Melanoma and the Research Foundation: http://www.24-7pressrelease.com/press-release/cosmopolitan-magazine-mrf-team-up-to-combat-melanoma-154411.php

Here is where you can donate: http://www.firstgiving.com/cosmopolitan

Just in case you don't click on any of the links, here are the important facts you should know:

From Cosmo's donation page: "Skin cancer is a serious, often deadly disease. If you have advanced melanoma, your life is measured in months. It’s the fastest growing cancer in the world, and is hitting young women hard. Melanoma is the leading cause of cancer death in women 25 to 30-years old, and the second leading cause of cancer death in women 30 to 35-years old. "

Please take action to protect yourself and not have the mindset that skin cancer is nothing to worry about or that this will happen to someone else. I wish someone would have educated me, so please let my experience educate you and keep you safe. No one is saying to stay out of the sun, just practice safety in the sun. What we are saying though is stay out of the tanning salons. I know some of you are still using them. Seriously your fake tan is not worth risking your life. Learn to love your skin as it was created, not by changing the color of it.

Thanks, have a great weekend and stay safe in the sun!
Tina

Results

2010-09-12T12:20:00.000-07:00

I got my results for my scan Wednesday about 15 minutes after the scan, but have not posted them as I hadn't yet spoken with my mom. The results were not good. I have 3 blood clots on my lung and a few suspicious spots. I had to get on a blood thinner right away and I will be taking it for a few months to prevent further clots. The clots should dissolve on their own, but there is a chance that they can move around (i.e. brain and cause a stroke). For this first week, I have to give myself shots - one in the morning and one at night as well as take a pill (warfarin or coumadin as you may have heard of). The shots work right away and the pill takes 5 - 7 days to begin working, so that is why the docs put me on the shots right away. After the first week, I'll only have to take the pill and I'll have to get blood work done weekly to manage the amount of warfarin that I will need to take.

Not sure about the spots yet. I see Dr. Hersh this coming Wednesday and hopefully he'll have some additional information for me regarding the spots as well as his recommendation on treatment. This hit me pretty hard and I had a hard time dealing with the news - I'm still processing it actually. Also, I'm not sold on this warfarin solution. I consume a lot of green leafy veggies and when you are on a blood thinner you are advised not to consume a large quantity of these veggies as it has an adverse effect on the medication. Basically our liver produces proteins that helps our blood clot and vitamin K increases the amount of proteins that are produced. Green leafy veggies have a high amount of vitamin K. Warfarin works to produce a lower number of blood clotting proteins, so in order for the drug to work properly vitamin K should not be consumed in a large quantity.

I consume a large amount of green leafy veggies as they are known cancer fighters. I am not comfortable with reducing the amount of cancer fighting foods in my diet. It scares me actually. I believe that I have been able to fight off my cancer so far because of the changes I have made in my diet. I know my cancer has returned since my diet changes I made 2 years ago, however, it was contained to one location. I truly believe that my fight against cancer does not end with surgery or western medicine/treatments. I fight each day with what I consume, trying to keep my stress level low (this one seems to be the hardest) and activity - yoga and just moving in general. Because of this I am going to find someone to help me manage all of this as it is too much for me to do alone. I am going to be looking for a Naturopathic Doctor - someone who will incorporate western medicine and nutrition. If anyone knows of a good one in the Phoenix area, please let me know. I would much rather see someone with a referral if possible.

I'll post an update once I see Dr. Hersh on Wednesday. Please do not expect a post on Wednesday as my appointment isn't until 3pm AZ time. It is a 2 hour drive there and back, so I most likely will not update my blog until Thursday.

Thanks everyone for your continued support and prayers/positive vibes.

Scan tomorrow

2010-09-07T21:18:00.000-07:00

I have my CT Scan tomorrow morning (all organs). Any prayers, good thoughts, vibes, energy - whatever you got - for clean results would be awesome. Thanks!

I'll post the results when I get them, but probably won't be until Friday.

Update from dr.'s visit

2010-08-30T21:08:00.001-07:00

Went to see Mr. Melanoma (Dr. Hersh) down at the Arizona Cancer Center in Tucson. We did not talk about treatment as in his words he hasn't seen melanoma be a solid tumor in the kidney in the 40 years he has been practicing. So, he wants to have his team do additional testing on the tumor to ensure that it is definately melanoma and not kidney cancer. Results from the hospital's lab indicated melanoma, but he wants to be sure and I'm all about a second opinion to ensure that we are treating the right cancer. He also wants to talk to his group of doctor "friends" and get their opinions. I have a follow up appointment on September 15th with him and should have a better idea what we are dealing with. I am also going to schedule another CT scan of my organs before this appointment. This way we should have all the information we need to make a decision regarding treatment.

So, for now I will continue to concentrate on healing and staying positive. I am going to go back to work tomorrow and see how it goes. I'm really looking forward to being back at work and meeting all my new students and getting to know them. I'm starting off slow with working Tuesday and having Wednesday off just in case it was to soon. If all goes well, I'll be back again on Thursday.

The Good and The Bad

2010-08-26T10:29:00.000-07:00

I haven't been writing lately as so many things have happened that I have had to deal with. Some good, some bad. I am strong, but for a while there, I wasn't sure I could stand. Finding out that the beast was back was a shock to my system. I really believed the results would not be melanoma. I couldn't deal with it while in the hospital as I was on too may drugs, so I was numb. Everything hit once I was home. Then I found out a friend of mine died and my mom left. It has been a rough few weeks, but I am moving forward. Baby steps for now, but soon they'll be big dinosaur steps.

My mom left this past Sunday. That was a hard day. There was a hole in my chest that lasted til morning. Then it wasn't gone, but eased to an ache. Her support while she was here was amazing and I don't just mean all the things she took care of: cooking, cleaning, watching Teya, etc. She was there for me emotionally when I really needed it and it meant the world to me. Thanks Mom!

A day after my surgery, I suffered a great loss. A melanoma warrior, my friend Pete, lost his battle. He was a great man and someone who gave me loads of support. He was passionate for life and living each day to it's fullest. He was always level headed and optimistic. He was there in celebration for the good and helped me through many dark days. I miss him.

Here is some good to end this post on a lighter note. Had an appointment with my Kidney Surgeon last week and he said that everything was healing nicely. Told me to be active, but cautious. No heavy lifting or anything strenuous. Just listen to my body and not go beyond it's limits. So, I've been resting and healing for the past weeks and I am getting better. Each day I wake my body feels better. The recovery road is a rocky one, but I'm making my way. I can drive and spend my days off the couch which is great! By the end of the day I'm beat and sore, but it is great to be moving.

As for my next step, I have an appointment with Dr. Hersh in Tucson at Univ of AZ on Monday (8/30). I'm looking forward to this appointment to receive direction and treatment options.

My next post will be about the good. I got all the bad out, so now I can concentrate on the good things. It is good to air out the bad to make room for the good. As my yoga instructor says, breathe in the good and out the bad.

Resting at Home

2010-08-14T10:54:00.000-07:00

Finally made it home Friday morning. I needed to stay 2 additional nights as the surgery was more than expected. The tumor had grown and had spread down a blood vessel, so the doc had to cut me open on my lower right abdominal to get everything out. This is in addition to the 3 laproscopic incision that were made on the right side of my stomach. The pain was a lot to manage, but with everyone's help I made it. I'm glad to be home. I just feel better out of the hospital. Teya was having a hard time and was really crying Thursday night for me to come home. It was so hard to be stuck in a bed and not be able to get to her.

I was thankful that I was released the next morning. It took me a few hours to get settled in and I feel much better today. The downside is that my dad had to leave this morning, but I am thankful that he was able to come during the week. We had some fun before the surgery and his help was greatly appreciated during and after my surgery. Kept Teya busy and happy which was less stress for me. My mom is staying for another week. Thank Goodness! I'm going to need her help. Although I am feeling better at home, I am no where near being independent. I am currently waiting for her and Teya to return from dropping of my dad at the airport and then out for breaksfast, so I can take a shower. I'll feel a ton better once I can have running water on me. I could only have sponge bath's in the hospitals, which helped, but they are nothing like a full shower!

Thank you to everyone who has reached out to me and my family with prayers and well wishes. It has helped and we will continue to need them as I recover and move into my treatment. My doctor is currently testing my tumor for a marker and will be talking to the experts down in Tucson. We will then discuss my treatment options. I don't know anything about what treatments will be available to me, but when I have some information I will post about them. I'm a rare case with Melanoma in the Kidney, so I don't know what direction my doctors will recommend. I'm scared, but ready to continue fighting.

Ok, I'm tired from catching up on FB, so I'm going to relax and I'll post more later.

Again, thanks to everyone!

Love,
Tina

Home sweet home...

2010-08-13T13:54:00.003-07:00

Well, finally Tina is home! First thing this morning she got released from the hospital, and she was on the couch resting by 10:30. Everyone, including Marley, Bo and Kitty, is glad she is finally home. I will get her to do a post here soon, so be on the lookout...

Todd

Yet another night...

2010-08-12T15:20:00.001-07:00

Well, unfortunately, just found out Tina will be spending yet another night in the hospital. We were hoping she was going to be able to come home at least today, but the doctors want to keep her just one more night to be safe. She is doing well, and her pain is a bit better, but she is still having a bit of trouble moving around. Some tests earlier revealed some weird blood counts in some of her test, and blood pressure is a bit low (which is normal for Tina) , so they are just being cautious with her. Her latest tests all came back fine, but another night it is, as they want to be safe. Hopefully it won't be too long a night for her, and we can get her home in the AM. A lot of you have called about coming over to visit or bringing flowers, so hopefully Saturday might be a good day. Give me a call, and I can give you the latest...

Once again, thanks for all the support...I know Tina (as well as the rest of us) really, really appreciate it...

Out of surgery...

2010-08-10T15:40:00.003-07:00

Hey all, Todd here...

Well, Tina is out of surgery and surpringly, she seems to be doing well. She is having a bit of back pain, but her surgeon Dr. Brito said she did great and noted the surgery was a difficulty of 8.5 on a scale of 10. Once they got in there they seemed to find the vein leading to the kidney from the a bit 'thicker' as he said, so he decided to take that out a bit more of the renal artery than they were anticipating. Might have been some trace cancer cells in there, that hopefully we will find out from testing. Initial tests say the main tumor was indeed melanoma (which would be rare), but again, I think we will know more from any tests they do...

Next steps for her is sleep, sleep, sleep! They think she will be able to head home tomorrow afternoon, but there is always a chance that it will be the day after. Of course the sooner the better, as how anyone can sleep in a hospital is beyond me. Between all the poking and proding, it is louder than a truckstop. Hopefully she can get some good quality rest...

Anyway, may give an update later if Tina isn't up for it...but I am sure she will chime in soon. Thanks all for the thoughts and prayers...they are much appreciated!

Todd

Getting Ready

2010-08-09T16:23:00.000-07:00

Surgery is tomorrow morning - 7:30am. It will take 3 hours and I'll have at least one day in the hospital. I'll have someone update my blog tomorrow with how everything is going.

My parents flew in to be with me and my family. I am once again thankful for all they do for me. They arrved Saturday morning and we have been enjoying their visit. As for me, I'm nervous, but ready to be done, ready to move on, ready to face the outcome - the next stage in my journey. I am hopeful that the surgery will be the end of this chapter. Please pray, visualize, send good vibes, whatever you got, that the surgery will go as planned and that the results of the mass in the kidney is not cancer.

Thank you to everyone who has reached out to me and my family. We all need the love and support right now.

Surgery

2010-07-20T16:27:00.000-07:00

Quick post about surgery. My surgery has been scheduled for Tuesday, August 10th. I'll take all good wishes and prayers. Thanks!

2010-07-18T14:00:00.000-07:00

I have spoken with my doctor's and it has been decided that I will have surgery. The surgery has not yet been scheduled, but will hopefully be soon after I get back from my MI vacation. I will post the information once I know. The surgery will most likely remove my right kidney. If there is a way to remove the tumor and save the kidney, my sugeon will, but because of the location and size, he is 90% sure that the entire kidney will be removed. I am trying to prepare for that, but it is difficult thinking about losing a kidney. I am lucky that the tumor is confined to one kidney and that my left is a healthy, fully functioning kidney. I have been told that most people live a long and healthy life without limitations with one kidney. I know all of this, but this is my body, my life and as happy as I'll be to have the unhealthy kidney removed, I will mourn the loss. Don't get me wrong, I am good emotionally, I'm optimistic and I am strong. It's just a strange feeling knowing that one of your organs will be removed.

Teya and I are currently in MI with my family and we are having a great time. Todd will join us in a week and a half. I look forward to the rest of the vacation for relaxation and fun.

Results

2010-06-23T16:14:00.000-07:00

Good news first - my MRI results are clean and clear. All lymph nodes and organs, with the exception of my right kidney is clean and clear. All great news!

Bad news - docs believe there is a 3cm tumor on my right kidney. The follow up PET did not give them a definite answer. I am seeing a kidney specialist on July 12th. I'm hoping there is another test or two that can be done to determine what the spot is before having surgery.

I had a hard time hearing the news, but today I am at peace and optimistic. I haven't really thought about it until I got on Face Book and realized that I better write something before everyone thinks I am under a rock or something :) This isn't the best news, but it is also a time to evaluate where I am at emotionally and physically with my healing and make any adjustments I need to remain healthy. I am optimistic that regardless of the final diagnosis that I will be fine. I feel strong and that I will make it though this next challenge of my journey.

I want to thank all of you who have reached out to me and my family with your prayers and well wishes. It means a lot to me to have your support.

We are patiently waiting for the arrival of my parents who have been delayed in Detroit for 3 1/2 hours! I look forward to seeing them soon. Todd, Teya and I are traveling to MD to see Todd's family this Tuesday and I look forward to all the relaxing that will be had on that vacation. Just what I need right now. We get back to AZ the day before I see the kidney guy. I'll update everyone then.

Again, thanks for all the prayers and well wishes.

Scans

2010-06-16T19:38:00.000-07:00

It is that time of year for my 6 month scans - CT - organs and MRI - brain. I had my CT on Tuesday and something showed on my kidney, so I am doing a follow up PET Scan on Friday which will provide a better look. My MRI is tomorrow, Thursday. I'll have all results on Tuesday the 22nd.

I ask for any prayers and any good vibes you can send my way for good results. I'll post on Tuesday to let everyone know my results.

Thanks!

Tanning Beds - seriously, people are still using these things!

2010-05-27T20:23:00.004-07:00

Here is a great article regarding a recent study regarding tanning beds and increased risk of melanoma.

www.cancer.org/docroot/NWS/content/NWS_1_1x_Study_Links_Tanning_Bed_Use_to_Increased_Risk_of_Melanoma.asp

Summer - It's Time for Sunscreen

2010-05-15T17:06:00.005-07:00

It is almost summer time - well, for AZ it is summer - so it is time to start thinking about sunscreen. I wear sunscreen all year around, but I'm sure most people do not, so this is my reminder to you to lather up. It is recommended that we use a broadband (UVA and UVB protectant) of at least SPF 30. You need to apply 10 - 15 minutes BEFORE going into the sun. Your sunscreen will have the recommended time. You will then need to re-apply EVERY 2 hours. There is no sunscreen that will protect all day. The highest UV times are 10am - 4pm. During these times it is important to either find shade (clothing, umbrella, tree, etc. you get the picture) or put on sunscreen and re-apply. It is very important to re-apply so I am saying it twice.

Also, there is a lot of talk about Vitamin D lately and I believe we are in a state of low Vitamin D levels as we as a society have gotten good at applying sunscreen and finding shade - Good for Us! After my diagnosis, my primary doc tested my level and I was extremely low. I am now taking a high level of supplements. I do try to get some Vitamin D from the sun, but it makes me nervous so I normally rely on my supplements. I came across an article that I thought was really informative about Vitamin D. Read here: http://health.yahoo.com/experts/skintype/15911/the-new-recommendations-for-sun-exposure/ .

So have fun this summer, just please try to be safe and protect your skin, body and health.

Where has the time gone

2010-04-30T22:25:00.002-07:00

I can't believe this month is over. It went by way to fast. Started off great with lunch with 2 good friends, CB and Sara. And ended it the same way. We girls met at Z Pizza, organic style, this afternoon for lunch. It is so great to get together with these girls. I always leave with a smile on my face and in my heart. Not only are they great friends who are there for me in so many ways, but they are also insightful. Health, fashion and nutrition. I always come away with something new. Love these gals!

Easter was such an event it will need it's own post.

The end of this month means that the Kindergarten year is almost over. I can't believe she is almost a 1st grader! As Grumpy says - No More Growing! She has had a fantastic year. Her grades are awesome and she is reading really really well. We are so proud of her. She also met some good friends this year.

Our group of friends had our annual Home Brew & Chili cookoff. It is a good size event with at least 50 people in attendance. Todd brewed beer and made chili. Unfortunately he had technical difficulties with his keg beer and everyone didn't get the chance to try his 2 beers. His Orange beer was fantastic and most likely would have placed this year if it hadn't run out. Bummer!

We had a close friend's 6th birthday party last Sunday. It was at a park with laser tag and gaming. It was a lot of fun for all. The weather was fantastic! (This is a great time of year in Phoenix.) It was great to celebrate with them and Teya enjoyed playing with friends - old and new- at the park.

After the party we came home and enjoyed the outdoors. Teya tried to go swimming. The pool is still a bit cold, but she got in.

"I'm freezing!"

Okay, now I'm ready

I'm in!

Now I'm out - time to warm up

Not by laying in the sun, but bundled up - she went in to the hot tub after that. She is to darn cute!

The highlight of the month for Teya was that she got a 5 gallon tank with 4 fish. Meet Bella, Daisy, Pinky and Bo. The yellow one is Bella. Of course the tank is pink and princess. The fish love the castle and it is fun to watch them swim in and through it. Teya really loves it when they play in the castle.

She's way excited!

Lunch with great friends and good food

2010-04-03T20:51:00.005-07:00

Teya and I had lunch with CB and Sara on Friday at Whole Foods. We went to the one on Scottsdale Road just South of the 101. They have a mini cafeteria inside and wow is the food good. I was excited to see all of the vegetarian and vegan dishes they had. CB and I I tried a couple of tofu dishes that were great, Sara enjoyed the pizza and sushi and Teya also enjoyed a slice of pizza. We then had a scoop of Sorbet. It was great to catch up with girls and have a yummy healthy lunch.

With my lunch I had a Quinoa and Black Bean salad. It was so good I had to try to make it. I made it for dinner tonight and it was awesome, so I thought I would share the recipe.

For those of you who are not familiar with Quinoa (pronounced “keen-wa” ), it is a gluten-free and cholesterol-free whole grain that is packed with fiber and protein. One cup of cooked quinoa provides 9 grams of fiber and 15 grams of protein. Quinoa can be used in place of rice or any other whole grain.

Ingredients

1 teaspoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, peeled and chopped (I used 4 as I love garlic)
3/4 cup uncooked quinoa
1 1/2 cups vegetable broth (I started with 1 1/2 and added another 1/4 cup after about 10 minutes as mine was soaking it up and I like a softer grain)
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
salt and pepper to taste
1 cup frozen corn kernels
1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro

I added:
1/2 cup zucchini chopped
1/2 cup red pepper chopped
1/2 to 3/4 can of diced tomatos with green chilis - 10oz can

Directions

1.Heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the onion and garlic, and saute until lightly browned. (If using my additional items add zucchini and red pepper)

2. (Again if using my extras - add tomatos & chilis with liquid). Mix quinoa into the saucepan and cover with vegetable broth. Season with cumin, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer 20 minutes,

3.Stir frozen corn into the saucepan, and continue to simmer about 5 minutes until heated through. Mix in the black beans and cilantro.

I had mine serving over a bed of spinach. It was delish!

Hope you like it!

Great weekend with Family & Friends

2010-03-29T10:45:00.036-07:00

Had a great weekend. My Uncle Art and Aunt Diane, who live in Texas, were in town. Went out to dinner with them and my Uncle Ernie and Aunt Gwen, who snowbird in AZ, Friday night at Brio. I had never been there, but it was good food. Aunt Gwen and Uncle Ernie have a place in Apache Junction and Teya and I went there on Saturday to spend some time with all of them. It had been quite a long time, years, since I had seen them so it was great seeing them and catching up.

Uncle Art

Aunt Diane

Aunt Gwen and Uncle Ernie

n Sunday we met with good friends for lunch and then a spring training game (well some of the game). Jason Lasky and his wife April were in town from San Francisco. We had lunch downtown Scottsdale at the Grapevine and then headed to the spring training game - Giants vs. Padres. Teya was with us so we made it to about the 5th inning and then it was time for us to go.

Teya and I are on Spring Break this week. Not sure what is on our agenda, but I guess we better go do something on this awesome day - mid 80s!!

Good Health and great weekend

2010-03-21T17:56:00.002-07:00

St. Patrick's Day was one year from my last cancer surgery. It was a great feeling to have a year of excellent health. Celebrated with flowers from Todd and The Snow Family and then pizza from Z Pizza (my fav) and sundae's. Mine was topped with Girl Scout Cookies - Thin Mints - yummy! Teya's was topped with a variety of sprinkles and candies. We then rented a cabin in Christopher Creek (just outside of Payson) this past weekend. Me, Todd, Teya and Marely went up Friday night and The Sutton Family joined us Saturday afternoon. Friday night and Saturday were a little cold for my taste, but the cabin was a really good time. Of course, Sunday was the warmest day - not that we went there for the warmth, I just prefer it :). Friday night we had dinner at a local restaurant - take out so we could be with Marley - and then played some games. Saturday we went for a nice hike before The Sutton's arrived. It was pretty chilly with a lot of wind, but we were prepared with lots of clothes, so we were good. There was still some snow on the ground in the shaded areas, so Teya was extremely excited to get to play in some snow. The snow patches were pretty large and deep. I would fall to mid-shin in places, so she got a pretty good experience. We then went back and had lunch while we waited. Once they got there we went for another short hike and found some more snow for the kids to play in. Fun, fun, fun!

The "resort" has a fenced in area for dogs, so Marley got to have some fun off the leash. There is a play area for the kids. Not like the local parks, but the kids loved it. All in all it was a pretty cool place. The cabin wasn't spectacular, but it served it's purpose for all 8 of us with 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, kitchen including stove, fridge, microwave, toaster, coffee maker, camping grade plates, cups, silverware, pots and pans, a sitting area with fireplace and tv with local channels. The best part for the kids was the loft. It had a low ceiling, but the kids could walk. There were 4 kid size beds up there and the kids absolutely LOVED it!

We forgot our camera, but took pictures on our phones. I'll post the pictures once we get them uploaded.

It's been awhile, but there's good news

2010-03-14T16:23:00.000-07:00

It has been a really long time since I have written. Just can't seem to find the time. I'm not complaining as it is a good busy. My days are full with working til 3, when I then pick Teya up from school. She loves Kindergarten! Monday is Teya's dance day and she still loves her class. As of today, she has choosen ballet as her favorite. I practice yoga Tueday and Thursday nights. It has been the best thing I have done for myself. My body enjoys the stretching and my mind enjoys the break. Also, I get to catch up with a good friend, Sara, who got me excited about the class as the instructor is fabulous. Wednesday's I work til 6, which is a really long day. I love the kids, but I'm exhausted at the end of those days. Teya comes back to the school with me and gets some extra playtime, so she loves that.

Teya doesn't like it when I am in the office on my computer. She complains and basically drags me out. I have been wanting a netbook or laptop for the mobility. Well I have finally gotten one and I am SO happy. My new laptop arrived this week and it is awesome. Hopefully now I can stayed better connected online.

My health is awesome. Next Wednesday, St. Patrick's Day, will be my one year of being cancer free. It was a year ago that I discovered a melanoma on my left breast and had it successfully removed. It is also a year and a half out from my lung surgery. I couldn't be happier!

I have been cleared by all doctor's except one. In December I had my CT scan of organs and MRI of brain and eye. Everything came back NED (no evidence of disease). Since then, my eye doctor, dermatologist and dentist all have given me a clean bill of health. So I have been cleared inside and out. At the end of this month I see my oncologist who will run my bloodwork, but with all the other tests coming back healthy, I have no doubts that my bloodwork will be good as well.

For those of you reading this on Facebook, I will be removing the feed and this will be my last blog post. I want to get back to writing in my blog and it just isn't something I am going to publish in facebook any longer. It just doesn't feel right.

Halloween

2009-11-21T10:46:00.002-07:00

Now that it is almost Thanksgiving, I figured I better post our Halloween pics (ha - so, I'm a little behind!).

We had a wonderful Halloween at the Partridge's house this year. Jon and CB joined us for the festivities and good times were had. Linda made a wonderful Taco Salad dinner, CB made some hot chai tea for us to enjoy during the trick-or-treating and she made some yummy Halloween treats. We brought over guacamole & chips and brownies. Good eats all around! Afterwards we all relaxed and enjoyed a movie together. It was a really fun night with great friends.

Teya was a butterfly, Skyler was Darth Vader and Jordan was Spiderman. They were too darn cute. The kids had an awesome time trick or treating and got ALOT of candy. It was the most successful candy night in the past 2 years that we have been trick or treating together!

Our Trick-or-Treaters - aren't they cute!

Snickers anyone?

Yea for candy!

Skyler was a nice nephew and gave Jon his favorite - Almond Joy

CB's Halloween Treats - Yummy!

Getting some of CB's scary treats

Skyler and Jordan having some hot cocoa

Hope everyone had a safe and scary Halloween!

Dangers lurking at the Grocery Store

2009-11-11T21:39:00.001-07:00

Dr. Oz (love him) recently talked about the bacteria lurking at grocery stores and ways to protect you and your family. Here what he had to say about the produce section.

THE PRODUCE SECTION

Dirty little secret: When you grab an apple for lunch, your hands may be the 20th pair to touch it. That’s right, veggies and fruits are picked, sorted, thrown on a truck, taken off a truck, sorted again, boxed, and unboxed all before they reach the display case where they’re fondled by other customers before they meet you. Experts say, all in all, 20 people will touch a tomato before you slice it up for your salad. And that’s in addition to all the animal waste that can mingle with produce on the long journey from farm to table.

Quick fix: Carefully wash all fruits and vegetables before eating, even if you don’t plan on eating the skin. When you peel or cut vegetables and fruits, the bacteria from the exterior can travel inside. Keep any prepped veggies, such as sliced tomatoes, at 41 degrees or cooler until you eat or cook them.

It has been so long now that I have been washing my produce and not just rinsing with water that I forget that it is not common in most households to wash their fruits and veggies with any type of scrubber or veggie wash. Remember just like washing hands or anything else, simply running water over our produce does not remove bacteria, germs and pesticides. You can lower your risk with organic produce and locally grown produce, but washing is still recommended.

Here are two ways of washing. Choose whichever works best for you.

Cool Water: Wash the produce under a stream of cool water or using the spray nozzle of your faucet and rub the produce with your hands, or scrub with a vegetable brush, to remove potential bacteria in all the grooves and crevices.

Produce Wash: You can buy produce wash at the grocery store or make your own. I know of two recipes; 1) equal parts water and vinegar or 2) grapefruit seed extract (3 to 4 drops to 4-6 oz of water). Spray, rub and rinse or for leafy veggies & large quantities, soak for 5 to 10 minutes.

I love my reusable bags and use them whenever I remember to bring them into the stores. I'm pretty good about the grocery store, but frequently forget at other stores. Anyway, Dr. Oz had another great tip that I have a hard time remembering to do.

Reuse, recycle, and REWASH! Reusable bags are great for the environment, but can be bad for food safety. Wash them every 10 uses—using an acidic cleaner such as vinegar or running them through the washing machine—to remove any dangerous bacteria from your previous shopping trips.

Dirty Dozen - Shopper's Guide To Pesticides

2009-11-08T21:49:00.000-07:00

Many of you have asked about what I eat and what products I use and why. I can always tell you what, but most of the time I can't remember exactly why. I've done lots of research with books and online information and I do what I believe to be the best for me and my family. As I come across some of the articles and information that have impacted my decisions I'll post them on my blog. This will help me organize my information and hopefully they will be useful to you as well.

Here is one of them about fresh produce:

I buy as many of my fruits and veggies organic as I can, but I can't always find them. Here is a list that I use as my guide. It is "The Shopper's guide to pesticides" and it lists the top 12 dirtiest and 15 cleanest fruits and vegetables. For a full list, click on the "full list" tab in yellow to see where your favorites are on the list. This list really helped me when I began switching over to organic. I began with the dirty dozen and made my way further down the list. It felt easier doing it slowly. I hope it gives you a place to start as well.

Also, buying organic is not significantly higher in price. I buy everything we need with at least 50% of our produce as organic and spend the same amount at the grocery store as I did before when I stayed away from the organic section. What has helped our bill is reducing the amount of meat that we buy. I'll get more into that topic in another post.

Happy Shopping!

You can click on the title to get to the page or here is the website address http://foodnews.org/walletguide.php

What soft drinks are doing to your body

2009-11-02T15:01:00.003-07:00

I just read this article (What soft drinks are doing to your body) and I found it informing. I have not drank a soft drink for over a year and I don't plan on having another one ever, but I read it to see if it was worth passing on to my soft drinking friends and family. I thought it was worth reading and I hope you will too and maybe it will make you think the next time you go for a soda. (click on title of this post to go to article)

Have a great day!

Here is the web address: http://health.yahoo.com/experts/drmao/20270/what-soft-drinks-are-doing-to-your-body/

Melanoma Walkathon

2009-09-29T16:45:00.025-07:00

In 10 days I will be walking in the Safe from the Sun Walkathon for Melanoma in Tucson, AZ. I created a team - Pale Skin Is In, of course :) - and I am deeply touched that friends have joined and will be walking beside me and my family.

It has been just over a year since my lung surgery and 6 months since my last melanoma. I am happy to be walking in this event as a cancer free survivor and in honor of those that have lost their battle. I have been battling this beast for 3 years now and so much has changed in my life since. I used to love the sun. I would put some 8 SPF (seriously what was the point) on and lay out baking for hours. It never crossed my mind even once that I may be putting my health or more importantly my life at risk. I now do not go out in the sun without sun protection, either lotion or clothing and I now look for the shade. My daughter Teya also does not go out in the sun without protection. Every morning before school I put lotion on her and I have bought her sun protection clothing. I am going to do what I can to educate her how to be safe while having fun in the sun.

This walk means a lot to me for many reasons, but one is that awareness of melanoma is low. I wasn't really sure what it was when I was originally diagnosed and I was quick to learn that others were as naive as me. I was sadden when my cancer returned that friends of mine still did not understand melanoma to be life threatening. I heard too many "I thought you just had skin cancer" statements. I thought I had educated those close to me, but I realized that I had failed in some cases. Everyone should know the importance of sun safety and getting their skin checked regularly by a dermatologist - not your medical doctor. The money raised by this walk will not only go to much needed research for better treatment, but also to spread the word for prevention and early detection. Melanoma is about 90% curable if caught early, however, there is lack of effective treatment for later stages.

Please let me know if you will be in the Tucson, AZ area or would like to travel down with me to this event. If you cannot join the team, but would like to make a donation, you can do so by clicking on the title of this blog entry or the "My Fundraising Page" link on the top right side of my blog.

If you are reading this via my Facebook feed, you can go to http://www.safefromthesun.org/ and join or donate to my team.

Thanks for your support!

August Events

2009-09-21T19:21:00.012-07:00

I know we are late in September, but August was a big month for Teya and I have finally gotten around to writing about it. Not only did she turn 5, she also began Kindergarten. Teya had a double birthday with 2 parties in the same day. It was tiring, but Teya enjoyed herself. Her first party was with 5 of her girlfriends from her pre-school. They played some party games and decorated cupcakes.

Her second party of the day was with our group of friends/AZ Family. We swam, grilled and had a pinata. Fun was had by all!

The Monday following her party, Teya began Kindergarten. Teya was a bit nervous, as was I, but she did great her first day and has loved it ever since.

Teya having breakfast with Kitty

Teya in front of her school
Teya with Daddy
She found her cubby and name tag

Her seat

Me at her seat

In Loving Memory of Mikasa

2009-09-18T13:57:00.008-07:00

It is with a sadden heart and teary eyes that I write this today. Our cat, Mikasa, passed away Wednesday evening. It was sudden with no signs. Todd came home from vollyball Wednesday night at 11pm to a cheerful "Meow" (hello in cat) from Mikasa. Todd let Marley outside and heard a strange meow from the kitchen. He went in and found Mikasa laying on the floor. Todd rushed back to the bedroom and woke me up. He was limp and I couldn't fine a pulse at that time. Todd rushed him to the Animal Hospital around the corner from our house. They were unable to revive him. We are not sure what make this happen, but we do know that his bladder was hard and he had fluid on his lungs. The dr.'s think his heart stopped. All I do know is that he wasn't in pain and I try to take comfort in that. In all of the days leading up to this, he was his normal self and gave no signs that anything was wrong. Even just minutes before it happened.

Our pets are like family and each one of them are considered one of our kids. For those of you that also feel this way about your pets, I'm sure you can understand the hole in our hearts and the absence in our home. We deeply miss him and will never forget.

Here are a few more pictures.

He loved sitting in the sink.

Posing with Teya

Walkathon for Melanoma Awareness

2009-09-05T12:32:00.008-07:00

I am excited to participate in this year's Safe from the Sun - Walk for Melanoma in Tucson, AZ. Todd, Teya, I and possibly Marley (yes, dogs are welcome) will be heading down to Tucson on Saturday, October 10th. The event is from 3-6pm. There is a 2 mile walk with a Health & Wellness Expo that includes free skin cancer screenings.

I have created a fundraising page and if you are interested in joining my team or donating to the cause, click on the title of this post.

Thanks for your support!
Tina

Results

2009-09-04T16:08:00.001-07:00

I got my results for both my CT Scan (organs) and MRI (of brain) and both came back as No evidence of disease - meaning Clean & Clear! Hooray!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Last shot of my treatment

2009-08-29T10:50:00.003-07:00

On Monday August 24th I gave myself my last shot of my year long treatment. I am so glad to be finished. It was a long, tired, achy & foggy year. Next week I have my every 3 month CT Scan & every 6 month MRI of brain. I'll know the results sometime the week of September 7th. I'm thinking clean and clear.

Sorry, it's been awhile

2009-08-29T10:50:00.000-07:00

I realize that it has been since June that I updated. Sorry about that. To be honest, I just haven't had the brain power to sit down and write. It was just hard to concentrate. Not to mention, if I tried , Teya would bug me until I went and played with her. Anyway, we had two great trips this summer to visit our families. July was with Todd's family in Ocean City, MD and August was with mine in MI. We had wonderful weather during both trips and had a wonderful time with family.

Teya posing in her new sun shirt

Teya at the beach

Family on the roof of Courtney and Mike's beach house

All the kids on my parents bottom patio & yes, that is my brother relaxing in the background.

Best Friends (Teya and Kristina) on my parents top patio looking over the lake.

Grandparents and kids
Teya, me and my parents
During our visit we went to Cedar Point. We had a blast. Teya rode her first roller coaster The Woodstock Express and my niece Kaelynn who is 8 rode a big one for the first time, for those of you that know - The Gemini. I hadn't been there since Teya was born, so about 6 years. I am a roller coaster addict, so it was great to get back.

Teya and Kristina on the Frog Hopper - hands up everyone!

View from our hotel window of the Magnum, one of my favorite rides.
I rode the Top Thrill Dragster for the first time and let me just say aaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhhhh!The ride goes from 0 to over 120 miles per hour in four seconds in order to go straight up the 420 foot tower, up and over the top and straight down the other side. There is no over the shoulder harness and only a lap belt/bar. The ride is exhilarating and only lasts 22 seconds. If you love roller coasters and have never been to Cedar Point, your missing out. You can check out their website for info and videos of their coasters. It gave me chills again to watch the one for Top Thrill Dragster. Can't wait to go back!

2 Photos from Cedar Point's website of Top Thrill Dragster

My Little Dancer

2009-06-21T11:09:00.001-07:00

This past year Teya took a tap/ballet class and on June 3rd, she had her dance recital. It was cute!! Her and her friends did fantastic. It was awesome seeing her up on stage and she really enjoyed it. Todd and I were very proud of her. Here are a few pictures from the show. Their song was "Build Me Up Buttercup".

And here is a video of her during rehearsals when they were walking onto the stage. She is next to her very best friend, Lauren, who is on the right.

Clean Scan

2009-06-17T15:50:00.004-07:00

I got my results for my CT Scan and bloodwork yesterday and everything came back clean and normal. Those are two words I love to hear. Nothing but healthy organs showed on my CT Scan. Even my lung has healed from surgery. We were keeping an eye on a spot which we thought was scar tissue from the surgery - it is now gone. Every month I get bloodwork to determine the function of my liver and kidneys - my treatment can be hard on both - as well as a LDH, which is a test that looks for tissue damage which could mean cancer. All 3 tests came back normal. I am so happy!

Round 9

2009-06-05T14:35:00.002-07:00

I am doing 3 treatments with only 1 week in between versus the normal 2 week break. I am at the tail end of round 9 and I am exhausted. I'm barely functioning mentally. Good thing for me I'm a preschool teacher! Everything else is going well - no flu like symptoms and my blood counts look like they typically did while I was on treatment, so that is good. I'll end this round Sunday night and then begin round 10 on Monday, June 15th. I'll then end round 10 on Sunday, June 28th. It's the Sunday before we leave for vacation - we leave Wednesday, July 1st to visit Todd's family.

My next CT scan is scheduled for Thursday, June 11th. I'll get the results on Tuesday the 16th when I see my doctor. Any clean and clean prayers & positive vibes are greatly appreciated. I love technology and that I am able to have these scans to see if anything is going on inside, but it is hard not to worry about the results. I think about the r word (reoccurence) often, but I am able to push those thoughts aside. When it is time for the scan it is hard to get it out of my mind. I'll be glad when I have the results.

Happy Mother's Day

2009-05-13T14:20:00.000-07:00

HAPPY belated MOTHER'S DAY to all you mom's out there. I hope you had a wonderful day. I had a nice day with Teya and Todd making me breakfast and gave me a lovely bouquet of flowers. We grilled out for dinner and ate outside on our patio. It was nice.

Teya had a Mother's Day Party in her class the Friday before and it was great. They sang some songs that made us mom's teary eyed and she made me some wonderful gifts - see below.

Teya Flower

She made me a pin out of puzzle pieces and gems - beautiful!

Here is the picture she drew for me. What an aritist!

Teya's New Bed

2009-05-09T11:39:00.008-07:00

I went shopping at Ikea for the first time last weekend. Wow, that was an experience. Anyway, Teya had outgrown her toddler bed, so Todd, Teya and I went looking for a new bed for her. We were successful and found one that we all liked. It has a mattress sort of like a futon, but thicker and the head of her bed comes up into a semi sitting position. It is really cool. She got a new sheet set and of course it is pink. Also, the quilt that my Aunt Shelly made will look great on her new bed (it is still one of Teya's favorite blankets).

Teya in her new bed.

In this photo you can see the curtains that her

Grammy (Penny) made for her room. They are beautiful.

Round 8

2009-05-09T11:37:00.002-07:00

I began round 8 this past Tuesday. I've been, of course, tired, dehydrataed, a little nauseous and my legs feel like they weigh a hundred pounds. Other than that I have felt pretty good. I'm hoping that the next week continues this smoothly.

Since this round was delayed by 2 weeks, if I continued on the normal schedule, 14 days on and 14 days off, I would be doing treatments during my summer vacations - NOT GOOD! I'm hoping to be able to alter the treatment schedule to be off this stuff while on my vacations. We'll see what the doctor says.

Easter

2009-05-02T13:39:00.009-07:00

I'm a little behind, but here are some pictures from Easter. We had some fun at our home and then went over to The Sutton house for brunch and an egg hunt. We had yummy food courtesy of Janie and her mom and then the kids enjoyed an egg hunt. It was a great day!

No Swine Flu

2009-05-02T11:41:00.003-07:00

Hello All!

No, I do not have the Swine Flu. I was extremely sick with either a virus or the flu (but not the pork kind). I was home and in bed/on the couch for a week, but I am on the mends and will hopefully be fully recovered soon. Because of all this, I was put on a antibiotic, so my treatment is on hold. I'm not sure when I will begin my next round. I should have started April 21st. I'll speak with my docs next week and figure it out.

Round 7 and Easter Fun

2009-04-11T09:25:00.015-07:00

Round 7 of my treatment came and finally went. It was the worst round in terms of side effects that I have had. I was really sick for a while and I'm glad to be on my off days. And it worked out great that I will not be on treatment for Easter.

I also realized that I did not include my biopsy results from my surgery in a post. The results were clean and clear. No evidence of cancer!

At school Teya had an Easter egg hunt on Thursday. She had a good time and here are some pictures from the party. I am glad that I work at her school so I can join her parties.

Here are all the kids lined up to go out for the egg hunt. Teya is excited.

Teya on the hunt and with her best friends.

My parents visit

2009-03-29T08:46:00.005-07:00

My parents were here the week of my surgery and it was a blessing to have them here. Their support throughout this journey has meant the world to me. They have never made me feel guilty for all the times they have jumped on a plane to come and be with me. They are not rich in the multi-million dollar sense, but as for compassion and unconditional love, they are the richest people I know. It gives me a lot of comfort to not have had to be the one to ask them to come be with me. Instead they have always told me they want to come no matter the expense.

I really enjoyed their visit and appreciate them taking care of Teya and me. It is nice to not have to worry about taking care of the house and Teya the day of my surgery as well as the days after. Less stress means quicker recovery. It is wonderful to have someone really take care of you for a few days. As women we feel guilty asking for help, even for the little things, like making tea, meals & cleaning. It is silly really, but that is how we are. My mom made sure I took it easy by always asking me what I needed and if I was doing something, she would shoo me away and tell me to go sit down and relax, which is what I needed for a couple of days.

Since my surgery wasn't as invasive as it could have been, I was able to truly enjoy their visit the entire time they were here and of course, Teya had a great time. She got some grandparent spoiling and enjoyed their visit. When it was time for them to leave, it was too soon. It was hard watching them go. We are already looking forward to our trip to Michigan in August.

Here a a few pictures from their visit:

Me and the butterfly princess

Teya and my parents in our backyard.

Our future cheerleader - Go Blue!

( Blah, blah, blah to all you Spartan, ASU & Ohio fans - you have to admit, she's cute!)

Recognition

2009-03-28T14:22:00.021-07:00

Sometimes we get what we need from unexpected places/people and this post is to give thanks for someone's kind words.

One of the teachers I work with in my class and I were talking this week about the number of hours we work and she turned to me and said - You really amaze me. You work 8 to 9 hours a day, on your feet for almost all of it, taking care of the kids and after everything you have gone through and are still going through, you never complain about being tired. I almost lost it emotionally. Other than my mom, this was the first time someone has given me such a compliment. It felt really great to have this recognition from someone who sees me every day. I try hard each day to get up and do what is needed, even through pain and fatigue. I do it for myself, but it felt great to have someone notice and give me credit for my efforts. I know it can be difficult to remember what people are going through when you see them everyday, so I wanted to say thank you - Thanks Jeri!