Tuesday, November 6, 2012
My energy level was noticeably different when I awoke today than it was yesterday. My little dinner I ate last night didn't settle well, and I realize how careful I must be with what solid foods I eat. Today I have my first appointment with the gastroenterologist before getting an endoscopy. I began reading Healing the Gerson Way, and I realize how daunting this healing approach will be, not just for me but for whomever becomes my caregiver. The amount of daily time devoted to preparing juices and food is almost a full time job. This will either require a team of people who get trained and rotate, Kathy would need to take a leave from her job, or I would need to hire someone to be here all day. I still must read more and ask questions, but the reality of this therapy is just starting to sink in. These thoughts always happen on low energy days, when they are harder for me to think creatively and positively.It is now late afternoon, and Kathy and i just returned from the appointment. We had a great doctor who was honest and straight to the point. He showed us my CT scan, pointed out the different organs, and identified the diseased areas. His diagnosis: this is cancer, and it is 90% likely it is the aggressive pancreatic cancer that has metastacised not only in two other organs but also in the fatty tissue of the abdominal wall. In this type of situation, surgery is not an option. After the official results, he will speak with any Oncologist we select and help us make that connection. Chemo could help extend life up to two years.
Stop! Don't go there, because I didn't. I was calm, and this pronouncement brought no fear to me whatsoever. I explained to him I have chosen to attend the Gerson Institute and explained the natural healing concept behind it. He said he practiced Western medicine, and he would tell me to pursue Chemotherapy, but it was important for me to feel comfortable with my choice and it was ultimately up to us how we want to proceed. We left the office knowing that, had we not known about the Gerson Institute we would both be devastated. We headed for Roger's house. Roger is the person who introduced me to my the Gerson Way book, has attended the non-clinic part of the program, and has implemented a modified healing program to help recover from arthritis (which had prevented him from continuing his woodworking earlier this year). When we arrived, Roger and his wife gave us a supply of their soup, supplements, and he assured me he wanted to be the person who accompanies me for 2 weeks as a my partner when I go to the clinic.
It is still mind-boggling to me to realize someone is so willing to give of himself as Rodger is doing. In the past 4 days I have been overwhelmed with prayers, support, meditations, and heart-felt conversations and messages from those who I was brave enough to initially reach out to last Friday. I don't expect my journey to be an easy one (this is still a two year commitment I am making). This is not an easy situation for the rest of my family to hear and live with. But we are a close family, we come together, and I need their support and help (like washing and juicing vegetables). I will give you more understanding of how much work this approach will entail in a later message.
Hi Mark, Thanks so much for blogging...this is a perfect way to let all of us who love you know what's going on.
ReplyDeleteHi Mark and Kathy,
ReplyDeleteI think this news just flat out sucks, but I'm glad you are thinking healthy thoughts. I was thinking after reading your posts that you are going to need a truckload of organic fruits and vegetables to keep to the Gerson regime. Maybe it's too early to start processing this yet, but would a small greenhouse help? I'm sure a bunch of us would be happy to help by chipping in and starting a little garden for you. This site has several models but I'm not sure if they will fit your yard, or prove to be a burden to you guys: http://www.greenhousemegastore.com/product/springhouse/hobby-greenhouses.
Pam
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ReplyDeleteHi Mark,
DeleteSo very sorry to hear this news, but I was happy to hear that the doctors told you that you could have another two years if you get treatment. You know our story and you probably also know that Ted was only given 3 months to a year AFTER treatment and look how that turned out. That was in 2006 and despite the fact that they will never declare him cancer free, he keeps going strong and I am so thankful to have had this incredible time with him.
You are still in the total shock stage. I think that lasted for about year for me. I'm very glad that you have found something that gives you hope and the strength to move forward. When Ted found out, he attacked the cancer in his way too. Everyone goes on their own personal journey. Ted put up his dukes and never let his guard down. He told the doctors to bring it on and they did bring it on. I think his longevity has to do with a multitude of things that include his fighting spirit, the fantastic treatments he received and flat out luck. You just never know, but I do know that you a are highly respected person due to your caring and compassionate attitude toward others and there are so many people out there pulling for you.
You are a true humanitarian. If it hadn't been for your open attitude when Ted was in the midst of his battle, I don't think I could have done it. You allowed me the freedom to work and care for Ted. It truly helped me keep my sanity and the roof over our heads.
I hope all goes well in Mexico. I've also learned through meeting hundreds of folks with terminal brain cancer that it is their own personal journey and only they can make the decisions that they feel most comfortable with. Some pray, others don't. Some do traditional Western medicine while others opt out. My only advice to you is to keep doing what you are doing because your mental health is crucial here, but I also want to tell you that so many people care about you, and they want to show you that by suggesting Western treatments as a backup. New treatments are much, much less invasive than even a few years ago, and I am thankful every day for having this gift of time that I have been given with the love of my life. So I hope you won't take offense when people suggest chemo. It's only because they care and want you around as long as possible, but I do understand the need for each person to take their own path. I'll keep reading your blog and hope that you will find time to enjoy the sunshine in Mexico. Please bring some back with you.