From the start

I returned from the family reunion in Boston very aware that I was coughing way too much.  I had assured everyone that I was fully covered with medical appointments as soon as I returned to California.  And I was.  I had a CT Scan scheduled for 9/4/09,  and a gynecology appointment for the following week.

   It was the CT Scan that was the key.  It showed that whatever remnants existed from the ovarian/uterine cancer they had removed  in August, 08, had metastasized to my lungs.  The gynecologist asked me if I would like to know the results of my CT Scan,  and she read it with me.  Things happened fast after that.  I told Mike and Tanya at dinner that night, and called Seth right after they left.  Kaiser had set up an appointment for Friday with the oncologist, and my old oncologist called to find out if I would prefer to drive into San Francisco to see him, or if I was comfortable seeing the new oncologist, closer to me.  Seth said he was driving up Thursday night to go to the oncology appointment with me.  We went to the oncology appointment, viewed the CT Scan, and there they were, multiple flecks all over both lobes of my lungs.  No wonder I had been coughing.

   We liked the new oncologist.  He was honest, and seemed to care about me.  He said that chemo would not cure me (too many spots) and that there was no target for radiation.  He said that he wanted to support me in any way he could, whether I chose to have chemo or not.

   Mike and Tanya had us all for a family dinner that night.  It was good that Seth had been there to hear the prognosis and ask questions, so there was no pressure to have chemo "just in case".  Plus Seth and I were so sure that I could heal from this, that this was just a wake up call to take better care of myself.

   Now in my case, taking better care of myself really means having more fun.  I spend a lot of time in front of the computer, but not a lot of time listening to music or dancing or playing.  I eat healthy, but not 100%.  I exercise, but I am usually last on my list of priorities.

   This challenge was no different.  I went to my favorite alternative healers, read everything I could read (but not necessarily retain), started popping several different supplements, doing a couple of anti-cancer programs, and checking in with Seth 2 to 3 times a day.  I am so aware of the amazing support from my family and friends.

   We are opting for a cancer clinic in Tijuana, Mexico.  They are able to do things there that are not permitted in the United States.  We have been studying blogs and websites to determine which of the many clinics we are interested in, and which modalities fit with our beliefs.  As of today, we have narrowed the possibilities down to 3 clinics, and I have tickets to fly to San Diego on Wednesday.  Seth will meet me there and we will check out the clinics and the lodging, and pick one.  Most likely I will stay there for the 3 or 4 week program.  Hopefully I will come home even more improved and healed.  I'll try to keep this blog updated every so often.

   My goal, to live a healthy and vibrant life.  I love my family and friends.  I love my husband and my home and my environment.  Thank you for being part of it.

   While I am in Mexico,  email will be the best way to contact me.  The cell phone is very expensive.  I'll let you know if we come up with any other options.