I have decided to receive my Chemo treatments on the main campus of the Cleveland Clinic. We are lucky to have such a world renowned health care organization so close by. The Taussig Cancer center has everything in one building and Dave and I both felt this was the path we should take. Hopefully once the chemo gets my tumors under control this will open up some other options. Currently, because I also have some tumors in my lungs this was the medical treatment that we started with. I currently get a dose of Oxaliplatin in the hospital and then come home with dose of 5-FU (it does not stand for what you think but I do refer to it as that) I receive it with a portable infusion pump over the next two days at home. It may be the most expensive purse that I never wanted! The good news is that my hair should not fall out on this treatment and it is something we are calling operation “save my hair for Dawson and Juliana’s wedding in May”. Vanity is a real thing, but if it doesn’t work out I know a girl that can hook me up with a good fake mane. The worst side effects that I am experiencing are a very strong sensitivity to anything cold, loss of appetite and fatigue. The rest are small and I am able to push thru feeling pretty good. I did get my port installed the day before my first treatment and that was not ideal, I now know how Ironman felt when they stabbed his heart in the Marvel movies. I am hoping that round 2 will be less painful and less intimidating since I know now what to expect.

Now, on to what I did in the 6 weeks from diagnosis until that first treatment. I changed everything, I mean everything. I had already been aware of the day to day items that are part of our diets that are harmful. I also know that the environment that we live in can be toxic. I knew if I wanted to battle this disease that is was going to take a radical change personally to win, that is what I have done. Below is a list that I have stuck with and I do believe has helped me get stronger, stay out of the hospital and WILL help me head to remission. The most influential, motivational book that I have read so far on my journey is Radical Remission, Surviving Cancer at All Odds by Kelly Turner. If you know a person who is struggling thru cancer this is a must read and the audio book is excellent. I stumbled upon this book on accident as I was buying the book How to Starve Cancer and I do believe that was another example of a Godwink.

1. Absolutely NO sugar, its in EVERYTHING . The hospital stay and my painful biopsy helped me thru the cravings and the detox but know you can do it. Mind over matter and cancer loves sugar!
2. NO Alcohol, I will remember my last drink. November 5th 2024, Dave made me a steak for my birthday and we had a bottle of wine. Ironically that is probably what caused the pain and sent me to the hospital.
3. Currently I am only eating organic fruits and vegetables. I do eat a few organic eggs a few times a week but besides that I am vegan. Dairy and meat are inflammatory and I am doing whatever I can to reduce my inflammation. Dave also make me fresh juice at least once a day if not twice. He is using his mixology skills for a new purpose.
4. Supplements , It could be its own blog post one day and when I know what is working for sure I will share. I do know that most people that beat this use some form of supplements to help their body heal and boost their immune system.
5. Only filtered water, reverse osmosis is preferred and I also drink alkaline water daily.
6. Meditation – I start my day with it, I end it with gratitude.
7. Grounding
8. Reduction of Stress
9. Positive Attitude
10. The power of prayer – last here, but definitely not the least. GOD IS GOOD he has already shown me the way on many occasions.

I know many people would look at my list and absolutely think that I am crazy. They would not be willing to take such extreme actions to get better. I want to live more than I want to have a piece of cake or a glass of wine. If I have to do this the rest of my life, I am ok with that. I also am keeping a totally open mind to new treatments or ideas that can help me beat this cancer.