I’m not sure I can change the name of my blog, but it seems that I have grown wings bigger than “a girl with cancer”. The state of my health is no longer defined by that word. I am now defined by my babies and grizzly husband, by the herb garden I’m starting and the friends that I laugh with. You can call me mama, sweet love wife, green thumb or bestie. I no longer answer to victim or cancer patient. Since taking responsibility for my health, I found that elusive summer buried in the snow. I can’t claim a solo victory on this feat, and must give credit where credit is due.
Since I hadn’t received my medical degree in the mail yet, I did a ton of research on naturopathic and holistic doctors to assist in my journey. I met a few, but was hesitant to sign over my newly found health rights to them. I was looking for that golden ring; the perfect marriage of knowledge, experience, and open-mindedness. A doctor who actually believed in the body’s ability to heal and reverse cancer. My search led me to a place I love dearly and a state I call home. In the heart of this Shakespearian town, I found my golden ring.
The Mederi Foundation is located in Ashland, Oregon. The founder, Dr. Donald Yance, has created an individualized multi-faceted treatment program for cancer patients. They deal with the physical, spiritual and mental aspects of your disease and use each for the healing process. I picked my doctor, who specialized in oncology, and impatiently awaited my phone call appointment. The initial consultation that was supposed to last about an hour and a half, but it stretched itself to three hours and was filled to the brim with facts on cancer, on herbs and botanicals and I felt an immense gratitude to speak with a doctor that cared about me as a person and not just as a diagnosis. Our call ended with the promise of a protocol for my new treatment plan.
My doctor did not disappoint. The next week, I received a 10 page protocol. It was written specifically for my type of cancer, my tumor markers, and my eating habits. It was easy to understand, easy to follow and he even had the reasons for each recommendation so I knew how my body was utilizing the supplements. Oh, the supplements! This regiment is no small task. I am taking sixty different supplements and botanical solutions in addition to a smoothie every morning that piles on an additional five or six in powder form. This is in addition to yoga, walking and trampoline jumping. And this is in addition to daily meditation and stress management. All in all, it’s a full-time job! The wonderful part is that I feel healthy as an ox (there’s the title plug!). I’ve got the energy to happily go from 6 am to 7 pm with two energetic babies in tow, find the time to smooch on my husband and even blog a bit!
I appreciate each person that has continued to follow and I very much look forward to starting this new chapter with you! To end, a few pictures of what has been filling my days. Love and light to each of you! xo
Happiness comes by having big friends!
Who needs a chair when you have a shoebox?
Messy homemade paint day
Because I’ve received a few personal messages about my treatment and what I recommend, I must put this next part in to cover myself legally. I am not a doctor, and am not suggesting anyone follow my lead. Everyone must make their own decisions, do their own research and listen to their bodies for the best suited therapy. You should find a doctor that you are comfortable with and that you trust and work with them to create a plan for your situation. I am sharing my experience so others know that they have options and I will happily share all my resources with anyone who is interested.
Every time I read your beautiful blog posts my body tingles all over, with what some people may call “the chills” but what I prefer to call the most amazing tickle sesh ever. Either way, the outcome is always the same – it is an affirmation of a truth, that is so wonderfully magical and inspiring!!! It not only happens when I read your blog, it happens every time I see the sunshine of your face!! Love you! xoxo ps. Alabama and Ruby are simply amazing!!
What an amazing journey you are on. I am proud to be your dad. Your journey is making an impact on your mom’s own journey with cancer. Wow, I didn’t see that coming. I am proud of you for finding a direction that was true to who you are and following it with determination and enthusiasm. Your mom came back after a week with you, with nothing but admiration for you all the things you juggle daily. She was amazed and proud. Today is a new day, full of promise and hope, live in moment and love those girls for me.
What an amazing journey you are on. I am proud to be your dad. Your journey is making an impact on your mom’s own journey with cancer. Wow, I didn’t see that coming. I am proud of you for finding a direction that was true to who you are and following it with determination and enthusiasm. Your mom came back after a week with you, with nothing but admiration for you all the things you juggle daily. She was amazed and proud.
I’m proud to be your sister! You are truly an inspiration and I too am constantly amazed at how well and gracefully you handle all that comes at you in life! You took the road less traveled on combating your cancer, and I know your journey and story will give others the courage to take charge and know other options exist. Way to be awesome! Love you B!
This post makes me so happy! You are such an amazing inspiration and I’d love to share your story with as many friends who will listen.
Btw….the shoebox is histerical. I’m sure your little ones will find the laundry basket next. Karin