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BiographyI was diagnoised in July 2006 at a time when I was feeling fantastic and was told by so many that “you look like the picture of health.” Thats the funny thing about cancer, looks and the way you feel are deceiving. I had been told two years prior that I had a hemmoroid (which I swore to my doc that I did not have as I had no symptoms) although I did have bloating and constipation. Then two years later developed itching and feeling of pressure …figured it was that hemmoroid. Had a routine colonoscopy which found the 2 cm tumor. No one hear had any experience with anal cancer and at that time no info.on the internet but did find out about the correct treatment protocol thru Mayo Clinic web site. I was told it would be terrible…no horrilbe, that I would be on heavy duty narcotics for 3 of the six weeks, that I would never be able to sit in lotus pose again and I just said “well see.” The treatment was fairly barbaric and rough but well, not that bad as I knew it was just a short 6 weeks and I knew I could handle it. Never did take pain killers (thank you meditation practice) except for 1 day but did end up in the hospital for a day to receive transfusions. Okay…so here it is about three years later and I’m doing super fantastic. What I hadn’t been told was about the vaginal stenosis which is still a problem as I ddin’t know the technique (see web site blog) at the time and also my dad passed away a month after I was done and well with helpin my mom on top of trying to get better. Otherwise I now feel mostly stronger and healthier than ever, I’m happier, a nicer person, an inspiring yoga teacher….life has been well informed by this illness and it is fantastic. I’m even teaching yoga in a hospital to cancer patients and survivors! I have spent thousands of dollare going to hemo/naturopath and its well worth the time and money in helping to heal. I work out daily at the gym on top of doing yoga and am strong and flexible. My stomach still has some discomfor if I decide to not eat right and drink wine and/or coffee…which I mostly don’t do because I try to follow a low inflammatory and low glucose diet. I just want to let everyone know that there is life after cancer and its so great to have a greater appreciation for life. May we all heal and help others to heal…. Cancer Symptomsconstipation and bloating two years prior Surgery Description, Dates & Side Effectsport placement Radiation Description, Dates & Side EffectsIMRT- 32 doses…if you’ve done this, you know all the side effects…Chemotherapy Description, Dates & Side Effects5 FU- Mitomycin…via port – 96 hour drip Comments: |
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Hi Nova—
Thanks for your comments to my latest blog. This is quite troubling to me and not at all what I expected to hear today. I guess I was too optimistic. It would be fine if you would give Leigh my e-mail address. I’d like to communicate with someone who has had this issue to deal with after getting treatment for anal cancer. My doctor is going to use cauterization on mine, not surgery, so there won’t be any cutting. I would presume that there still may be issues with healing. I’m trying my best to eat right, exercise and keep my immune system strong. The supplements I take currently are calcium, magnesium, Vit D3, fish oil. I am not currently taking a multi vit. Any advice you can give me on this, I’d really appreciate. I’ll let you know when I get this procedure scheduled. I hope I will be able to be in touch with Leigh. Thanks very much.
Love—
Martha
I’m interested to know what kinds of things your eating. I eat very healthy, no caffine, no alcohol (although I would like to have a glass of wine at some point), but don’t think I have the time/discipline to do a raw diet or completely cut glucose or sugar out of my diet (although I know how bad sugar can be). I take supplements including probiotics and magnesium and I’m trying to eat as much green food as possible. The BRAT diet (low residue) works to keep bowel issues limited, but is just so lacking in any nutritional value. Any suggestions for easing into a healthier diet? I was really surprised and inspired when you said you didn’t need to take pain meds. I’m STILL on Tylenol 3 almost round the clock. When I don’t take it, I’m laid out – when I take it I can function normally. I’ve done some rekki. I have 2 boys, 7 and 12 and I’m about to go back to teaching in Sept. Because I’m still having some pain, my Dr. is going to do an anuscope under anesthesia on Wed. They did one earlier expecting to see an ulcer, but didn’t. So now they’re wondering why I’m still having pain. Anyway – good to read your blog – I just joined yesterday and already feel more empowered. Thank you.
Hi Nova! Thanks for stopping by my blog today and for your thoughtful and meaningful words. It sounds like you’re doing well too and that is truly excellent. I really think the B12 made all the difference. Amazing! Enjoy the holiday weekend. We are supposed to have great weather here. After the last few springs we’ve had (very cool temps and high amounts of rain) its nice to have a nice Mem Day Weekend for a change. :)
Warm wishes,
Ruth
Hi Nova – I have been reading your blogs and was wondering what coconut water is and what it is good for and where you can get it? Thanks – Cherie
hey miss..checking in…whats going on…how r u?
missing your posts!
d xoxo
Hi Nova,
Thanks for stopping by.
I haven’t been able to do much with the ebook of late. I’m just getting to the point where I can sit for longer periods of time. I expect that I’ll be getting more done this coming week.
I’ll keep you posted.
Hope you have a wonderful holiday.
Much love,
Theresa
hey honey…thanks for the post…I will definately start paying attention to what I eat…I have also started having a glass of red wine with dinner so that may be a factor as well…(although I cannot imagine life without red wine)...
will keep you updated!
d xoxo
Hi Nova,
Thanks for asking about my MRI results. Hopefully I will get my results today. I cant wait to POST my GOOD report. I refuse to believe that the “C” is back…..I feel GREAT
I read about your trip to Mexico. Sounds like you had a fantastic time. CHEERS to that!! Your positive energy is contagious and I just love hearing from you. Stay well my friend… Talk to ya soon. Say hi to Elena LOL…
Love,
Elena
Hi Nova,
Thanks to all of you on here, Once again my spirits have been lifted. I appreciate the good wishes and “YOU” always inspire me…Hope all is well with you too!! Have a great weekend!!
Love,
Elena xoxoxoxo
Nova-Yes I did have 5-FU and mitomycin. My oncologist told me from the beginning that I should have nothing more than thinning but I did not even have that. I don’t know why but I just didn’t get that side effect.
Nancy
Thanks so much for asking. right now pretty darn good. I have a little pain in my spine between my shoulder blades. that’s where they say the cancer has gone to. ugh I don’t want to think about it. I just do my exercises take my pills and hope like hell it just stays there.
Yes do go and take a look. It won’t be hard to find. She really did a great job in creating a unique atmosphere, almost like a ballet studio. Enjoy.
Thank you Nova for the wonderful compliment. I really do want to feel good again. I hope to meet you someday too….
take care
Nancy
Hi Nova,
I can’t take credit for the “Truth Focus Statement”. It comes from Dr. Alex Loyd’s Healing Codes program. I thought I was getting the nudge to invest in this program for my husband who had 4 stents put in the arteries in his heart almost 2 years ago. It turns out it was for me. The program is helping to reduce my stress level, keep my emotions in balance, and heal all my bodies; physical, emotional, mental and Soul. Of course, I do other spiritual exercises/contemplation, chanting a sacred word for God and journaling. All help with daily life in addition to having this physical road bump to deal with.
Lots of love & a hug, too,
Theresa
Hi Nova,
Thanks for taking the time to read and comment on my blog post.
It’s very encouraging to have you and others who’ve gone before us in treatment stick around to support the newcomers.
My sisters have been with me for the past two weeks. They live in other states and I have so enjoyed having them with me. I’ll post photos of the three of us. Ceal came with me to treatment and the radiology tech almost mistook her for me.
Have fun in Mexico City. I’ll look forward to your next post.
Warmly,
Theresa
Hi Nova,
Thanks for the compliment of my name. And awww so cute your daughter is Elena too….I never liked my name growing up bcuz for some reason, no-one pronounced it correctly. Go figure…Anyways, OK no problem I will be patiently waiting for the next blog..I truly am happy we have each other too. Im not (and Im sure everyone else) a good “C” patient. I know nothing…I ask a million questions to the docs, but Im never really satisfied. Who knows…..SO I thank you all on this blog who share your experiences which helps thru this journey..
ttyl,
Elena
Hi Nova—
Thanks for your comments to my most recent post. I knew when I brought up this topic again that it is controversial. I just think it’s important to keep reminding people that the vaccine is there and that they need to do their homework and decide what is best for them. The Gardasil vaccine has received approval for use in boys and young men, so soon there will be even more to consider. I still feel that everyone must do what they think is right for their particular situation.
Thanks for everything you contribute to this forum. You are a wealth of knowledge and I appreciate you sharing it with everyone so very much!
Martha
Hi Nova,
It sounds like you do have a lot going on. I’ll post your article on my blog with credit to you and when you do have a site up, I’ll link to it.
Thanks,
Theresa
Dear Nova,
I’m encouraged by your post and to know that life does return to “normal” post cancer treatment. My doc has already talked about vaginal stenosis with me before even beginning radiation, so I know she’s up on things.
Thanks for the comments and I’ll look forward to chatting with you again.
Warmly,
Theresa
Hey Nova,
Thanks for the comment. I am more than willing to help people get through this. I know all the advice I recieved helped me. I am feeling pretty good and getting better by the day. Merry Christmas to you and your family also!
Eva
Hi Nova—
Actually, I think your list is quite complete, based on my experience. As you know, I did not have the benefit of a forum when I was going through tx, so was really quite unaware of a lot of the things you have on your list. I have learned most of what I know after the fact, too late to help me, but hopefully helpful to others. I will certainly let you know if I can think of anything else. And again, I so very much appreciate you sharing your knowledge with everyone here who is taking the same journey. Thank you on their behalf.
Love—
Martha
Hi Nova—
Thanks for your response to my post and the info about the elevated cholesterol showing up in many people after tx. However, in my case, this is probably not the cause, as I have had very high cholesterol for many years (LDL). I have eaten healthy for all those years and it only continued to rise. I resisted going on a statin for as long as I could, but my doctor would hear no more! I believe it is hereditary, as my family members on both sides have dealt with it for years. I will, however, ask her about the supplement you mentioned at my next appt. I really don’t like taking any medications. Thanks again for the info.
Martha
Dear Nova…
About the TH level- I am waiting for the results of the T3 and 4 test- My baseline Thyroid test was 1.0 ?? According to my onco “That is normal” I insisted he take addtional tests and should know this week. I think the chemo really takes a toll on your adrenal glands…I did start taking some adrenal support herbal drops but they were so yuckky I stopped….Gee maybe I should just start again…I mean you think after chemo I could take a couple bad tasting drops!!
Glad you like my baby kitty. She is a sweetheart!! She has a big spirit!!
Thanks again Nova!!
Dear Nova,
thank you so much for the advice and encouragement! I am taking some biodentical hormones and my thyroid ia “allegedly normal” but I want further testing done as I heard the “low normal range” is not always normal. Mine is low normal. I just called a naturalpath today..I am taking herbs etc but I swear it has not helped!! I think I need more guidance!! I really am encouraged by your story!! It is awesome that you are doing well. I just want to get back some energy. I am really lucky as I work from home and I sleep pretty well…I am walking and do some yoga at home too… Lifting 10lb weights…was an avide gym goer prior to getting this…I have been back but feel so tired at the end of the day I feel like I have to save my energy for work…It is a dilemna. I do think meditaion helps so much and I had jsut finished the Course of Miracles about a week before getting diagnosed!!That was truly a gift as the mindset so helped me through radiation every day!! Radiation was worse them chemo as it made me the most fatigued.
Anyway..I appreciate your advise very much. Also I too am dealing with the vaginal stenosis. I really think more focus should be placed on this after we go through the radiation…I went to a gyno/onco and got some great advice from the nurse practioner who deals with these issues often. She suggested gloved fingers with lubrication instead of the standard “dildo thingamijig” (sorry if this is TMI! but you have to talk about this!! Anyway I found it is never too late to get things working it jsut takes patience!! Bleassings and thanks again!! Lori
Nova,
Thank you for the comment. Yes I know these last couple of weeks are going to be rough. I went ahead and took off work for a couple of weeks. I have been blessed to feel like working through most of this. But these last couple of weeks I just want to rest and not have to worry about being near a bathroom. And yes I have the baby wipes and all the ointments and squirt bottle thanks to all of you and your advice. You are all angels. I would not have done as well without all the help from everyone on this blog and I love you all for it!
Hugs
Eva
Nova,
Thank you again for the comment and the kind words of encouragement. All of you on this blog make this much easier. No I am not on fish oil but I am up for trying anything. My husband takes it so i’ll just start taking it also. I’m midway through week 4 and doing ok. Have slight burns but tollerable so far.
Hugs,
Eva
Nova,
Thanks for commenting and reassuring me that things will get back to somewhat normal. About the biopsies believe it or not all 3 of my doctors (radiation, medical and colo-rectal) are in agreement to the biopsies. I know that it isn’t in the guidelines but I have to say that I am actually happy that they do them because it definately is nice to know that there is not any evidence of cancer. I guess all doctors are different. Thanks for your support and please keep in touch.
take care
Nancy
Hey Ladies and Gentlemen,
Our local paper finally did an article on anal cancer…..take a look….its okay with some things not exactly accurate but good to get the anal word out. Maybe if we all have our local papers do something?????? www.postindependent.com
also, about two years ago there was something in the Denver Post if you go there and type in anal cancer….Lets let this spread and let other men and women know what to look for and get early diagnosis!
Yes yes yes yes yes. I want to participate. I live in Parker, Colorado and I know you are in Glenwood Springs, one of my favorite places. I have a lot of info I’ve been gathering to help others going through this. I am 5 weeks into my treatment and have 2 weeks left. Stage II. No lymph involvement same treatment you had. It is miserable on some days and others aren’t so bad. But yes, include me.
Thanks so much,
Ellen
Wanting to gather info. from others to be able to post on a web site I’m building for those diagnoised with this cancer. Let me know if you would like to participate