Cancerwise | Cancer blog from MD Anderson Cancer Centertag:www2.mdanderson.org,2009-03-20:/cancerwise//62012-05-16T13:11:00ZCancerwise is blog written by the doctors, patients and staff at MD Anderson Cancer Center. The writers share stories of MD Anderson's core values in action and open the lines of communication between readers and our cancer treatment, research, education and prevention experts. Movable Type Pro 4.25Transplant 101 tag:www2.mdanderson.org,2012:/cancerwise//6.23182012-05-16T13:03:15Z2012-05-16T13:11:00ZIt then became apparent, as the class wore on, that the chances of finding a donor in the National Bone Marrow Registry or Be The Match are bleak. I almost lost it as this horrible truth reared its ugly head right in my face. Cancerwise Blogger
By Cristina Rodriguez I'm a 30-year-old non-Hodgkin's lymphoma fighter. It's not all that I am, but it's all I'm focused on at the moment. The purpose of my blog, lymphomamaniac, is manifold.
I want to record this experience, not just for myself, but for anyone who can relate to or learn from my experience. I want to let people know that cancer can be funny and cancer is not politically correct. Why should I care about cancer's feelings? Cancer sucks and I'm going to kick its butt.
"Intro to Stem Cell Transplant." That was the name of the class I took a couple of weeks ago at MD Anderson. This optional class made me think harder about it than anything since I started my battle against non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.
"Why them and not me?" I know that sounds weird being that I'm going through a cancer battle, but let me explain.
This class was for stem cell transplant candidates and their caregivers to learn what to expect and how to prepare for the inescapable leave of absence from their homes. We got information on what a stem cell transplant is, the types of transplants, health risks and on and on.
I was alone in this class and that fact was not lost on me. It wasn't anybody's fault. My father was waiting in the lobby, since English is not his forte, and my husband was stuck working for the medical insurance I still so desperately need. ]]>
Autologous vs. allogeneic Since I
first let people know about my upcoming stem cell transplant, I've been
asked many times if I need donors and I received many offers to donate.
I feel so lucky to have people around me who would literally
give a part of themselves for me and I feel lucky because I don't need
one.
The stem cells I'll be receiving will be from my own blood. The transplant I'll be having is called an autologous transplant.
In
short, I'll get hooked up to an apheresis machine (which resembles a
dialysis machine) that will filter the stem cells from my blood and then
freeze the cells. After a high-dose chemo
session to stop bone marrow production, those cells will then be placed
back into my bloodstream with the hope that they will find their way
back to the bone marrow and start to reproduce normally. Need the match That
day in class, the instructor asked us to raise our hands if we were
having an auto transplant and only about half of us did so. The rest
were planning to have a donor transplant.
That was the moment I found myself asking the question: "Why them and not me?"
It then became apparent, as the class wore on, that the chances of finding a donor in the National Bone Marrow Registry or Be The Match are bleak. I almost lost it as this horrible truth reared its ugly head right in my face.
I
couldn't imagine the stress that I'd already been experiencing only to
be made worse by hoping for a donor, hoping to find that one perfect
match that could save my life. The challenge I left
that day with mixed feelings -- relief at the fact that I don't need a
donor and sorrow for those who do. I was also angry at the fact that
half of the patients won't find their perfect match. But most of all, I
felt I had to do something.
After perusing Be The Match.com, it was clear.
If
people were asking me if I needed a donor, why not have them make good
on that offer and become a donor on the national registry? Why not try
to get more people added to that list?
As soon as I got back
into town, I sat my husband down and told him about the people I'd met
and how lucky we were that I didn't need a donor.
He
immediately asked what he needed to do to be put on the national donor
registry. Needless to say, I was overjoyed. Whether he gets a match or
not, it's enough to know that he's willing to save a stranger's life. He
put it best, "If it were you, I'd want someone to save your life."
After this conversation, I knew I could do more.
If
my husband would donate in my honor, how many others would do it, too?
After all, I could have very easily fallen into this category of needing
a donor transplant. That could have been me.
It could be you I'll
take it a step further. You reading this now, yes you, it could be you.
It could be your spouse, child, parent, best friend or neighbor. Cancer
knows no bounds and has no respect for those we hold dearest.
Also,
if you're a minority such as Hispanic, African-American, Asian, Indian
or Pacific Islander, your chances of finding a match have just
been cut down again. This Mexican-American, right here, would be there
with you.
There aren't enough registry members of diverse racial
and ethnic heritage, so adding more diverse members increases the
likelihood that all patients will find a life-saving match.
I challenge you to save a life.
Get
your name added to the national bone marrow registry today. Don't
wait. Save a life in your lifetime. Why not? What do you have to lose
besides a few replenishable cells?
Visit Be The Match and see just how simple the process really is.
Read more posts by Cristina Rodriguez]]>
Let's get cookingtag:www2.mdanderson.org,2012:/cancerwise//6.23172012-05-15T13:25:51Z2012-05-15T13:50:16ZProper nutrition is important for people who have cancer. The disease and treatment can cause changes in appetite. If you are experiencing changes in appetite or difficulty eating you should speak with a dietitian. At MD Anderson, every patient has access to a dietitian, so ask your doctor for a referral.Patient Education Bloggers
By Lura Lumsden, health education specialist, Patient Education Office - The Learning Center
Growing up in a small town in Virginia, I always had a huge vegetable garden, so eating healthy was easy. When I went to college, my diet changed. With my main focus on studying, I rarely cooked and often opted for quick meals that weren't always the healthiest option.
Since I began working at MD Anderson in The Learning Center, I've tried to live a healthier lifestyle. Good nutrition has become a priority, and I pay close attention to what my family eats. To ensure that we eat more fruits and vegetables, I prep all of the produce when I get home from the grocery store. I wash, cut and store it in the fridge so that I can grab and go.
What we offer The Learning Center offers free information at all levels -- from very basic materials all the way to physician-level resources.
Although many of the cookbooks in The Learning Center are cancer-specific, the recipes are for anyone who wants to eat healthier.
Our Nutrition Pathfinder is a condensed list of reliable resources including books, cookbooks, videos, brochures and periodicals. Patients and family members are encouraged to use our email reference service to send us their questions. Contact us at asktlcstaff@mdanderson.org.
Nutrition for patients Proper nutrition is important for people who have cancer. The disease and treatment can cause changes in appetite. If you are experiencing changes in appetite or difficulty eating you should speak with a dietitian. At MD Anderson, every patient has access to a dietitian, so ask your doctor for a referral. ]]>
treatment side effects
and also provides grocery lists and menus. Side effects addressed in
the book include neutropenia, diarrhea, sore mouth and throat,
constipation and weight management.
After checking out this book
several times, I finally bought my own copy. One recipe that I
frequently cook is the "Oven 'Fried' Parmesan Chicken." It's quick, easy
and a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken. It also pairs
well with any side dish, especially steamed vegetables. Quick tips
Recipe substitutions I
refer to The Learning Center's nutrition resources for quick recipe
tips. For example, some cookbooks suggest substitutions to replace less
healthy ingredients, like using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise or
sour cream. Below is one of my go-to favorites. It's especially
delicious with sliced cucumber.
The freezer is your friend Plan
your meals ahead of scheduled treatment. Cook in advance and freeze
small portions for easy meals when you're feeling tired. Set water goals During
treatment, set water goals for yourself. Use a permanent marker to mark
your goals on the water bottle so that you drink throughout the day.
The Learning Center To learn more, I welcome you to visit The Learning Center. Main Building, Floor 4, near Elevator A, R4.1100 Mays Clinic, Floor 2, near The Tree Sculpture, ACB2.1120 Jesse H. Jones Rotary House, Floor 1, RH1.103 713-745-8063]]>
What cancer has taught me: life is a marathontag:www2.mdanderson.org,2012:/cancerwise//6.23162012-05-14T12:58:51Z2012-05-14T14:23:35ZEarly in my fight with leukemia, I felt much the same way. I was 25 years old, struggling to get ahead. It felt like life was passing me by. I was anxious for the baton, for a chance to sprint, because catching up with the world around me was the only thing I knew to do. Everything else, I figured, would take care of itself. Cancerwise BloggerBy Justin Ozuna
Justin Ozuna lives in Dallas and was diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukemia
in January 2006. He is a Texas State Representative and Dallas/Fort Worth facilitator for The National CML Society. His mission is to capture the ups and downs of a young
adult living with cancer and to serve people through humor,
encouragement, hope and adversity at his blog, theozunaverse.com.
I'm
not much of a runner. My only experience running a timed event was
during a junior high track meet. I ran the equivalent of one lap, or 400
meters. It didn't turn out so well. I was responsible for the last leg
of a 1600 meter relay so by the time I was passed the baton, the
competition was three-fourths of a lap ahead of me. I didn't have a
chance.
Early in my fight with leukemia,
I felt much the same way. I was 25 years old, struggling to get ahead.
It felt like life was passing me by. I was anxious for the baton, for a
chance to sprint, because catching up with the world around me was the
only thing I knew to do. Everything else, I figured, would take care of
itself.
When I was younger, it was extremely difficult to wrap
my mind around the big picture. I grew up in an excessive culture
defined by immediacy and indulgence, where patience is considered
weakness and investments are often vilified. To rely on endurance to get
me through the trials and tribulations of life was a tough lesson to
learn. Race with a purpose Four years after my
diagnosis, I moved to Dallas and discovered I was growing resistant to
Gleevec, a first-line medication. I learned of a mutation called t315i,
which would prevent any known FDA-approved medication from working. It
was at that moment I started to see things differently. I realized the
futility of my self-centered approach to life and reinvigorated my
efforts to run the race against cancer with a purpose.
I stopped
believing life was a sprint. A diagnosis of leukemia didn't necessarily
mean I was going to live a shortened life, it simply meant I had to run
smarter, more effectively, and with purpose. I knew as soon as I let go
of that truth, I would lose. And so I pressed forward. I decided to do
whatever I could to cross the finish line with determination. ]]>
With a renewed mind, I came to MD Anderson to begin treatment. My oncologist had another mutation test performed to validate the sometimes-elusive diagnosis of t315i. The test came back negative and I began treatment on a second-line drug called Sprycel. The heaviness of being told I didn't have many options was counterbalanced by a new hope.
A new peak leads the way for a new valley As renewed as my efforts were, six months later I was told my bone marrow began releasing immature white blood cells back into my bloodstream again. Sprycel was no longer working. Another mutation test revealed an obvious t315i mutation diagnosis. There was no reason to second guess anymore. I found that no amount of optimism could buffer unpredictability.
Soon after, I began a clinical trial at MD Anderson. Two weeks into the protocol, the trial drug caused an increase in eye pressure, which eventually led to partial vision impairment in my right eye. My oncologist removed me from the trial and applied for compassionate use of the t315i effective drug, Ponatinib, a clinical trial that was closed to new patients at the time I arrived in Houston. Ponatinib is my last hope to avoid a bone marrow transplant.
Dedication to finish Fred Lebow, New York City Marathon co-founder once said, "The marathon is a charismatic event. It has everything. It has drama. It has competition. It has camaraderie. It has heroism. Every jogger can't dream of being an Olympic champion, but he can dream of finishing a marathon."
The same could be said about our fight with cancer.
Instead of winning, we simply hope to overcome. Instead of finishing, we yearn to see our children and grandchildren grow up. The aspiration to live long, inspired, productive lives supplants heroism.
I wasn't always sure if a long life was possible for me. Much like my race in junior high, I was focused on the short term, on catching up with everyone else. Had I continued to run my race against cancer in the same way, I might not have finished at all.
When life kept slipping away and bad news lingered, I learned to see the big picture, to not allow bad news to crush me and to fully appreciate the life I live. Everything stopped becoming so immediate. The world slowed down and the clarity of truth and importance were made known.
Life isn't a sprint, it's a marathon. I had to learn that the hard way. Now, I can fight my cancer with grace, perseverance and a dedication to cross the finish line.
Read more posts by Justin Ozuna. ]]>
This is my MD Andersontag:www2.mdanderson.org,2012:/cancerwise//6.23132012-05-11T12:59:55Z2012-05-11T13:59:28ZVal Marshall's cancer journey began in May 2009, when her son Addison was diagnosed with acute lymphocytic leukemia. A visit to the family doctor for what they thought was a simple high school football injury turned out to be much more.
Cancerwise Blogger
By Val Marshall
Val Marshall's cancer journey began in May 2009, when her son Addison was diagnosed with acute lymphocytic leukemia. A visit to the family doctor for what they thought was a simple high school football injury turned out to be much more.
Inspired
by her son's strength and hope, Val strives to be a voice that connects
other parents on this journey. Her series shares insight into her life
as a mom of a typical teenager who just happens to be fighting leukemia.
It's
a bitter sweet time as Addie will be graduating on May 26 and will
begin his new chapter at Texas A&M in August. When you have faced
the world of relapse, you tend to fear the end of treatment and the hospital family that has caught your fall for 1,095 days, but who's counting?
Jack
and I were invited to an MD Anderson fundraiser in West Texas a couple
weekends ago and we reflected on the support system we've received as
parents these last three years.
Apparently, other families have felt this love as well. Polo on the Prairie is in its 26th year and has raised millions of dollars for cancer research because one family has modeled what MD Anderson teaches us with hope, science and the never-ending quest for a cure. ]]>
Jack commented that cancer begins with a single cell and grows into a life-threatening disease, but one family has grown into a major contributor to help end the suffering of human kind. Footprint of compassion I became emotional when the polo match began, I looked over the crowd on a beautiful spring day and thought of all the patients in the hospital unaware of the quiet love of this event.
When I rewind the events of the last three years, I can't help but see the depth of compassion throughout the massive footprint called MD Anderson.
I have included a few special pictures that illustrate a day in the life for Addie at MD Anderson. The first is a special picture of Addie and the "book lady." She stays in shape by pushing a heavy book cart and trying to ignite the love of reading to kids who are sick, angry and just plain sad.
Addie has teased her for years that he reads enough for school, doesn't have time to read, yadda, yadda, yadda. She never gave up and, bingo, one day he accepted a book called "TheHunger Games," which turned into reading the entire series. His comment to her: "The books are better than the movie!" She has taught me the power of never giving up and smiling along a path without end.
At first blush, the other two pictures look disturbing as Addie is being prepped for his routine spinal tap. This sweet anesthesiologist kisses the forehead of her pedi patients as they become unconscious for the procedure.
This brings new meaning to the phrase, "Always kiss me goodnight." I ask her if I could share this picture with Congress on my next trip to Capitol Hill. You can see by her radiant smile that her passion and love for her profession shines like an August afternoon in Texas.
Talk about being kissed by an angel.
Finally, the Anderson Network works endlessly to identify and execute programs with a single goal: empower patients and their families to follow a roadmap of hope, perseverance and becoming a part of the solution. I pray that our family can carry the baton respectfully and continue the fight of "Making Cancer History." ]]>
3 Cancer-fighting drink recipestag:www2.mdanderson.org,2012:/cancerwise//6.23122012-05-10T13:00:30Z2012-05-10T13:50:30ZLooking for a treat to beat the heat? Try one of these cancer-fighting drink recipes.
Each provides plenty of fruity flavors with cancer-fighting vitamins and nutrients for just a fraction of the calories and sugar found in most beverages. Adelina Espat
By Adelina Espat and Laura Nathan-Garner
Looking for a treat to beat the heat? Try one of these cancer-fighting drink recipes.
Each provides plenty of fruity flavors with cancer-fighting vitamins and nutrients for just a fraction of the calories and sugar found in most beverages.
Citrus punch This first recipe is a sweet way to quench your thirst on a hot summer day. The orange juice and cranberry juice in this recipe offer a healthy dose of cancer-fighting antioxidants like vitamin C. You'll get the most vitamin C if you use freshly- squeezed orange juice, but refrigerated or frozen concentrate also will do the body good.
Get our recipe for Citrus Punch. Sparkling grape party punch Want to offer a festive alternative to alcohol at your next gathering? Serve this punch recipe. The grapes and grape juice provide a powerful dose of resveratrol -- the same cancer-preventing antioxidant in red wine -- with none of alcohol's drawbacks. And the citrus juices in the recipe give you a generous amount of vitamin C.
Get our recipe for Sparkling Grape Party Punch. ]]>
Blueberry watermelon freezes Need an after-workout beverage?
Whip up blueberry watermelon freezes! The blueberries are packed with
vitamins C and K, manganese and dietary fiber. That means more protection against colorectal cancer and possibly mouth, esophagus, lung and stomach cancers.
For more recipes and tips on sun safety, follow us on Twitter and join our conversations on Facebook.]]>
My stem cell transplant hospital admission tag:www2.mdanderson.org,2012:/cancerwise//6.23112012-05-09T13:10:40Z2012-05-09T15:54:29ZMy husband and I arrived in Houston a week early for my stem cell transplant. We wanted to get him moved into an apartment and I needed several tests prior to the surgery. Cancerwise Blogger
By Holly Easley Holly Easley began her cancer journey five years ago when she was diagnosed with myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). After two types of chemotherapy and a stem cell transplant, she says she loves life, is improving daily and enjoys blogging about the cancer experience at http://hollyeasley.wordpress.com/.
My husband and I arrived in Houston a week early for my stem cell transplant. We wanted to get him moved into an apartment and I needed several tests prior to the surgery.
My appointments that week included a CT scan, anesthesia assessment, transplant coordinator visit, bone marrow biopsy, echocardiogram, subclavian catheter insertion, complete pulmonary function test, social work visit, business office appointment and an appointment with Chitra Hosing, M.D., my stem cell transplant doctor.
One of the most helpful things I experienced that week was a stem cell pre-admission class. In the class, the nurse told us about everything from hospital admission to the dismissal. It was very informative. Beginning the journey I was admitted for my stem cell transplant on May 17, 2011.]]>
When we arrived at admissions,
everything was ready so it only took a few minutes. Going up the
elevator to the 11th floor was a very strange feeling. I knew I was
beginning a very important journey and that it would be several weeks
before I would be coming back down that elevator. Not to mention, we had
a large suitcase, clothes and a wheelchair full of pictures and
supplies I needed.
The room was small but nice. It had two
chairs, a bedside table with drawers, a built-in closet with a desk and,
most importantly, a window. The window and computer were my links to
the outside world.
Besides the usual pajamas, robes, slippers
and toiletries, I took sweat pants, T-shirts, hoodies, a pair of tennis
shoes, my iPod, family pictures, books, my fuzzy blanket, my latest
crochet project, my computer, a folding table to set it on and a folding
chair to use with the computer (the chairs already in the room were the
reclining type).
Please don't be afraid to bring all of your
favorite things. Even though the room is small, you will find a place
for everything.
M&M exercises One of the cool programs I participated in was the M&M exercise program.
On
the first or second day, you are asked to walk as fast as you can while
they time you and measure the distance. Every day you are encouraged to
walk as much as you can. There are different colored circles cut out of
construction paper that you punch into and out of a time clock each
time you walk, so that they can keep track of the time you spend
walking.
You get to tape these paper M&Ms on you door, and
every week they are picked up and prizes are given out. This was a big
deal.
I won a bandana, and on the last day before my dismissal I
was given an M&M T-shirt. They ordered an orange T-shirt just for
me, because that's my favorite color. The staff was amazing.
In a
future post I will write about the staff, treatment, transplant and
events leading up to my dismissal. The most important and awesome thing I
want to stress now is that I was always treated with the utmost
kindness and respect, which makes everything so much easier to bear.
Read more posts by Holly Easley]]>
Chordoma, caring and coffeetag:www2.mdanderson.org,2012:/cancerwise//6.23072012-05-08T13:04:59Z2012-05-10T15:13:14ZI quickly became aware that many challenges lay ahead. In the past 12 years I underwent two several hour-long surgeries, six weeks of proton therapy and stereotactic CT radiation. I have had tracheotomies, feeding tubes, ventilators, re-sections and grafts. Cancerwise Blogger
By Sophia M.
Oh, does the aroma of freshly-brewed coffee smell good in the morning -- even if I cough and sneeze while drinking it. The coughing and sneezing are a small price to pay for having what, for me, is the perfect welcome to a new day. And, I surely did miss it during those endless months of recuperation.
I consider myself an optimist -- maybe as that famous song from South Pacific says, "A Cockeyed Optimist." Nonetheless, it took me a long time to say the words "I have chordoma disease."
I guess because I have always refused to consider this disease a major part of my identity, and although it is a definite part of my physical being, it is not the core part of my psyche.
That's not to say that I'm unrealistic. I just prefer to compartmentalize that aspect of my life and put that bundle of worries somewhere "over there" while I live as best I can. Of course, sporadic moments remind me each day of my post-surgical deficits and that this disease and I are inextricably intertwined.
Those moments include setting aside the necessary time each morning (after coffee) to do the mouth, lip, tongue and stretching exercises to keep my speech and eating mechanisms more facile.
Looking back at the events that brought me to MD Anderson compels me to relive some painful, poignant memories. But I'm writing these words in hope that my story can, in some small way, provide inspiration for others. ]]>
Almost overlooked Shortly after my dear husband died in 1999, despite the grief of being a widow after 40 years of marriage, I felt very well physically and was sustained emotionally by the ongoing care and concern of a loving family and wonderful friends. Having three darling grandchildren younger than 5 helped to ease the sadness and sense of loss and to salve my lonely spirit.
Then, one day, I experienced some tongue numbness and a minor speech problem that several physicians attributed to food allergies. With my usual cavalier approach, I thought, "this shall pass."
But the symptoms persisted and a friend suggested that I have a consultation. I soon realized that one can't keep ignoring medical symptoms and one must get a consultation if a problem isn't solved.
That consultation with an ear, nose and throat specialist saved my life. Speaking in a hushed, concerned voice he said, "You have a tumor and need a biopsy."
I was stunned.
He then wisely said, "You will have to fight this battle to win the war."
I quickly became aware that many challenges lay ahead. In the past 12 years I underwent two several hour-long surgeries, six weeks of proton therapy and stereotactic CT radiation. I have had tracheotomies, feeding tubes, ventilators, re-sections and grafts. (One would think, with all that, someone might have managed to give me a face-lift, too!)
In between all that, I managed to work as a consultant, travel with grandchildren to far-away places, enjoy the companionship of another man, entertain, sing again (surprisingly, my voice was unaffected by all this), and continue to compartmentalize the medical part of my life. Holistic caring If I had my druthers, I'd rather not have had to deal with all this but, I do. I keep in the forefront of my mind how fortunate I am to be a patient at MD Anderson, where leading experts in treating this disease offer such promising treatment options administered consistently within a truly holistic, caring environment.
How many patients can boast of a solid team of experts who instill not only confidence in their abilities but have on their teams assistants who provide sustaining, attentive care whenever you need to hear a soothing, comforting voice?
It's hard to explain to friends who have not had my experience how one can remain positive, even as a cancer patient. They look at me in amazement when I describe the many smiling, upbeat faces throughout the medical complex that exude a palpable feeling of hope toward the future.
How remiss it would be if I didn't pay tribute to the Jewish chaplaincy service. Their kindly visits to waiting rooms and hospital bedsides bearing homemade goodies, Sabbath candles and challah added that family touch for those of us from another city.
And how marvelous it is to rely on the awe-inspiring volunteer organization, Houston Ground Angels, who provide free airport service in cars driven by friendly volunteers and fly in those from afar who are in need of air travel arrangements.
So, when you are drinking that morning cup or coffee (or tea), think of me, who, at the ripe age of 75 believes that living life as best you can is a beautiful gift for which to be thankful. ]]>
"Tuned" for healingtag:www2.mdanderson.org,2012:/cancerwise//6.23062012-05-07T12:31:15Z2012-05-07T19:32:28ZShe continues to fight as she also deals with Parkinson's disease and severe back problems. She's been an active member of MD Anderson's Celebration Singers, a singing group made up of cancer survivors and caregivers, and has no doubt that music heals.Cancerwise BloggerBy Angela Rankin
Angela Rankin is a three-time primary cancer survivor, who attributes her positive attitude and "fighting" stamina to her faith, family and friends. The excellent care received at MD Anderson gave her "healing confidence."
She continues to fight as she also deals with Parkinson's disease and severe back problems. She's been an active member of MD Anderson's Celebration Singers, a singing group made up of cancer survivors and caregivers, and has no doubt that music heals.
When I was diagnosed with stage three ovarian cancer in 2005, I knew I had a long road ahead of me. Then, the "road" took a series of unexpected turns when I was diagnosed with breast cancer, melanoma and Parkinson's disease within the next three years.
I was being treated at the No. 1 cancer hospital in the country, but I also needed medicine for my mind. That's when I decided to focus on music. "He who sings scares away his woes." (Cervantes)]]>
Musical medication Music heals ... plain and simple. Many studies have shown a direct correlation between music and feelings and attitudes. When I was teaching, I would often play Mozart or Beethoven in the classroom during tests. Invariably the class was calmer and the students entered the room quietly. Many expressed they were more at peace during tests with the music playing. If music can help 14 and 15 year olds, I knew it would help me fight cancer.
I listened to all kinds of music during my "healing" days. Gregorian chant helped to take me to a place of spiritual relaxation during chemotherapy. I thought about St. Peregrine, the cancer saint, who envisioned Jesus coming down off the cross to heal him and pictured Jesus doing the same for me.
Music was an important "medication" during stressful mammosite radiation, an additional chemotherapy regimen, surgery and various medications.
A second family Early on, I joined the Celebration Singers at MD Anderson, under the leadership of Michael Richardson. The group's purpose is to make beautiful music, have fun and provide inspiration to the newly diagnosed patient as well as the long-term survivor.
The Celebration Singers were such a part of my "music medicine" that when I couldn't make rehearsal one week because my chemo was taking an extra long time, Michael surprised me by bringing the singers and his guitar to my hospital room! I remember tearing up when I saw them all there and began feeling so much better when we were singing together. Beyond just making music, we have gotten so much support from each other over the six years.
I combined my feelings about music and the words I associate with my feelings in an original song "Music to My Years." My song reflects my feelings about the healing power of music, and the video takes the viewer through a survivor's typical day at MD Anderson. It also features the Celebration Singers.
]]>
The Restorative Effect of Gardens at MD Andersontag:www2.mdanderson.org,2012:/cancerwise//6.23052012-05-04T13:04:05Z2012-05-04T14:28:25ZMD Anderson's gardens and green spaces contribute to a holistic healing process, lift the spirits of patients and improve patient satisfaction.Cancerwise BloggerBy David Renninger, facilities project manager
As one of the world's most respected cancer centers, MD Anderson symbolizes excellence. This includes our facilities -- a network of state-of-the-art buildings interconnected by lushly appointed gardens and green spaces throughout the main Houston campus.
The
beauty of our gardens is recognized throughout the region, but they
serve a much larger role than to simply add curb appeal to buildings.
MD
Anderson's gardens and green spaces contribute to a holistic healing
process, lift the spirits of patients and improve patient satisfaction.
The
mission of our in-house grounds and landscape team is to enhance the MD
Anderson experience by creating and maintaining healing and therapeutic
environments of care for patients, visitors and staff.
The gardens are dynamic environments and always in a state of
renovation. We constantly strive to capture the interest of garden
visitors and
provide them with a positive distraction from the burdens of their
hospital stay. ]]>
Therapeutic environment The idea that
gardens can help with the healing process sounds good, but what is the
measure? Enter Robert Ulrich, Ph.D., professor at Texas A&M
University and fellow at the Center for Health Systems and Design.
Ulrich is a pioneer of evidence- based design, a philosophy that relies
on credible scientific evidence to influence the design outcome.
His 1984-groundbreaking study, "View Through a Window May Influence Recovery from Surgery," documented the recovery of two groups of urban hospital patients who underwent the same surgical procedure. All things being equal, the group with a window view of nature had shorter recovery periods, required less pain medication, had more positive attitudes and fewer complications than the other group, that was exposed to an industrial, urban view.
The gardens at MD Anderson elicit positive feelings of peace and calmness while minimizing negative feelings of anxiety and fear. Many patients and caregivers find themselves searching for positive distractions between appointments. Why not explore a garden or gaze upon green space from the air-conditioned comfort inside?
Restorative benefits Ulrich has observed that as few as five minutes of simply viewing plants and nature can produce restorative benefits, such as lowering blood pressure, moderating heart activity and decreasing muscle tension. He further states that the primary benefit of hospital gardens is to promote restoration for stressed patients, and that the presence of hospital gardens -- whether indoor or outdoor -- leads to higher patient satisfaction with their respective health care providers.
The simple act of viewing nature can reduce the negative physiological and emotional pressure associated with hospital visits. Therefore, spending a few minutes to stroll one of MD Anderson's many accessible gardens can be beneficial to patients, visitors and even staff as they seek restoration from the burdens of cancer treatment and care. A garden view Need some tips on where to go for a quick garden retreat? Here are some of our favorite locations around campus:
Main Building, outside -- stroll through the Dorothy H. Hudson Memorial Garden in front of the main hospital entrance for a visual treat of color and texture and over 500 roses.
Main Building, Floor 3 -- Pull up a chair inside and gaze across the Dorothy H. Hudson Garden from the air-conditioned comfort by the Gazebo landmark.
Rotary House International -- visit the Well of Life and surrounding grounds and enjoy peace and quiet in the shade.
Mays Clinic, Floor 2 -- many secluded patios offer seating, greenery and respite.
Mays Clinic, Floor 8 -- visit three Texas-themed gardens, each representing a different geographic region of the state.
Resources Ulrich, Robert S. (2002). Health Benefits of Gardens in Hospitals. Plants of People International Exhibition Floriade 2002
Healing Gardens. Retrieved April 12, 2012 from Sustainable Urban Landscape Information Series, University of Minnesota. Web site: http://www.sustland.umn.edu/design/healinggardens.html ]]>
Patient and Caregiver, Heal Thyselftag:www2.mdanderson.org,2012:/cancerwise//6.23002012-05-03T13:05:01Z2012-05-03T18:32:04ZThe Department of Social Work invites all MD Anderson patients and caregivers to experience the healing power of a variety of time-honored, mind-body interventions at the Body, Mind & Spirit Support GroupSocial Work BloggersBy Toni Franciosi, Department of Social Work
Receiving a diagnosis of a life-threatening illness like cancer may be one of the
greatest agents of change that exists -- a change that can lead to the
pursuit of healing, not only for the body, but also for the mind and
spirit.
For cancer patients and their caregivers alike, diagnosis and treatment may become an all-consuming, anxiety-provoking game of survival. The mind and body connection The
strain of undergoing treatment and caretaking may seem relentless at
times. But it's important to remember that our own thoughts and
perceptions about what's happening can fuel an even greater "stress
response," that can compromise healing. Under stress, the body
experiences an increase in cortisol, blood pressure, blood sugar levels,
cholesterol and heart rate, as well as lowered immune response.
The mind and spirit suffer the consequences of stress as well. When the mind judges a situation, specifically as "good" or "bad," we are vulnerable to feeling isolated and separate.
Attitude is everything Stressors in life cannot be eliminated, but they can be better managed.
The Greek philosopher, Epictetus, reminds us that "it is not what
happens to you, but how you react to it that matters." Attitude is
everything. Learning to relax the body and mind furthers the healing
process by fostering greater levels of healthy biological markers,
compassion, emotional stability, immune response and overall well-being.
]]>
Relaxation techniques Relaxation is integral to a balanced daily life. There are several exercises, such as abdominal breathing, guided meditation, imagery and mindfulness that can be practiced to achieve a more sustained sense of contentment and awareness.
Patients and caregivers can influence their own healing by incorporating these and other techniques into their daily activity to manage symptoms of stress, depression and anxiety.
Follow these links to experience a few of these mind/body relaxation techniques:
For more information contact Social Work Counselors Toni Franciosi, LCSW, at 713-792-7575 or Tena Gardiner, LCSW, at 713-792-7147. ]]>
Seeing Past the Smoke Screentag:www2.mdanderson.org,2012:/cancerwise//6.22952012-05-02T13:18:39Z2012-05-10T14:41:23ZAlexander Prokhorov, M.D., Ph.D., a professor in the Department of Behavioral Science at MD Anderson and founder of the ASPIRE program believes the release of the surgeon general's report will help support more programs targeted towards young children and teens. "The steps that are being taken at the national, state and local level to support programs to prevent teen smoking are encouraging, but we still have a long way to go," says Prokhorov.Katrina Burton
Katrina Burton, MD Anderson Staff Writer
With nearly one in five teens smoking cigarettes, there is no better advocate for smoking-cessation than Breanna Jordan, a senior at Stone Mountain High, a school nestled in DeKalb County in Georgia.
As a member of the National Honor Society, varsity cheerleader squad and active participant of SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisions) - a student-run program that discourages students from drinking, smoking and engaging in destructive behaviors - Jordan is no stranger to peer pressure and what's popular among teens.
"Smoking is the in thing to do for those going through the cool phase," says Jordan. "There is a lot of stress that comes with being a teenager, and some think that smoking among other things helps relieve that stress."
Jordan says it is not only the hygiene problems - bad breath, bad teeth and body odor - that have made her say no to smoking, but diseases like cancer that concern her. Jordan, like most people, has either had a personal experience with cancer or knows someone whose life has been touched by the disease. Just last year her aunt died of a non-smoking related cancer - ovarian cancer.]]>
Tobacco is the leading cause of preventable deaths, killing more than 1,200 Americans every day, and a high percentage of smokers start smoking before the age of 18. When told about the recent release of the U.S. Surgeon General's report on smoking that revealed 3.6 million kids smoke cigarettes, including more than 600,000 middle school students, making youth smoking an epidemic, Jordan was not surprised by the numbers.
"I don't have any close friends that smoke cigarettes, but I know of some high school and middle school students that do," says Jordan. "These poor choices and negative decisions are why I am committed to helping other students see the dangers of smoking."
The tobacco industry has invested heavily in marketing to young adults through the internet, video games, magazines and most recently social media sites including Facebook. The problem is that young children and teens also have access to the same channels that young adults do, and these messages appeal to them as well.
ASPIRE to quit smoking Through her participation with SADD, Jordan is able to help plan school activities including Red Ribbon Week, Ghost Week (Zombie), and more recently participate in MD Anderson's ASPIRE (A Smoking Prevention Interactive Experience) Program - a web-based learning tool developed jointly by MD Anderson Cancer Center and The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston to help teens quit smoking and encourage those who don't smoke not to start.
Today, there are 24 states enrolled in ASPIRE and almost 13,000 student interventions initiated since program inception. Most recently, an international location was added in Beirut, Lebanon, and just last year the Centers for Disease Control launched a national initiative, Communities Putting Prevention to Work (CPPW), to combat tobacco usage and obesity. The CPPW program identified several counties including, Dekalb County (GA) and Austin/Travis County (TX), that are using ASPIRE as a tool to curb teen tobacco usage.
Jordan was one of 22 members of the SADD program at Stone Mountain High who completed the program and admits that if there was ever a reason to not smoke, the information and interactive tools of ASPIRE are it. "What stuck with me most were the videos that showed real people, and the effect smoking and cancer has on your body," Jordan says.
Alexander Prokhorov, M.D., Ph.D., a professor in the Department of Behavioral Science at MD Anderson and founder of the ASPIRE program believes the release of the surgeon general's report will help support more programs targeted towards young children and teens. "The steps that are being taken at the national, state and local level to support programs to prevent teen smoking are encouraging, but we still have a long way to go," says Prokhorov.
Set to graduate at the top of her class this year and follow her career path as a registered nurse, Jordan hopes that more schools will adopt programs such as ASPIRE and CPPW to prevent and stop teen smoking.
In 2006, frustrated by the lack of research and treatment options for patients with ependymoma, Mark Gilbert, M.D., deputy chair of the Department of Neuro-Oncology at MD Anderson, proposed creating an international group to develop new treatments for this rare type of brain tumor.
Under Gilbert's guidance, the Collaborative Ependymoma Research Network (CERN) Foundation was established with the mission of developing new treatments for ependymoma, improving the outcomes and care of patients and, ultimately, finding a cure.
Today, the CERN Foundation is a dynamic, multi-institutional collaborative effort comprised of investigators from over 20 international cancer centers with leadership from MD Anderson (for adults) and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (for pediatrics).
The CERN initiative is built around the following interrelated projects: pathology, developmental therapeutics, stem cells and laboratory models, patient outcomes assessment, public awareness and outreach. These complimentary projects are all focused on supporting CERN's clinical trial efforts, which are currently accruing patients to three Phase II trials and one Phase I trial.
On April 19, 2012, the CERN Foundation was joined by patients, caregivers, advocates and health care professionals from around the world in celebrating the first Ependymoma Awareness Day. Ten governmental entities, including the City of Houston and the state of Texas, officially recognized April 19 as Ependymoma Awareness Day.
Hope takes flight The special day was commemorated with a mass butterfly release on the grounds of the Houstonian Hotel. Over 700 live butterflies were released to honor those affected by ependymoma and to support ependymoma research. ]]>
In a touching statement delivered to those gathered on the lawn of the Houstonian, Wenger shared his thoughts on the importance of Ependymoma Awareness Day to the group. "Kayla had an effect on people all through her more than five-year battle. Now, more than a month after she slipped from our grasp, we find that she still has those same powers. She continues to touch, affect and inspire people."
"We are here to see the butterflies that were sponsored in her name. For us these butterflies are a reflection of all the love that helped to sustain us through the pain of losing Kayla. They give us hope." he says.
"Please know that we are grateful to be here with you today representing so many other families who are fighting this disease now, who fought it before and who may someday be forced to join the fight. Your work through the CERN Foundation gives us all hope. We, in turn, hope that these butterflies inspire you to find the answers we all are seeking."
For more information on the CERN Foundation, visit www.cern-foundation.org. ]]>
Returning From a Long Hospital Staytag:www2.mdanderson.org,2012:/cancerwise//6.22922012-04-30T14:06:05Z2012-05-03T20:33:36ZJust as preparing for a lengthy hospital stay requires planning, so does returning to home after the hospital. While your condition and strength will shape the best approach for you, my experience following my stem cell transplants may be helpful should you find yourself in this situation.Cancerwise BloggerBy Andrew Griffith Andrew
Griffith has mantle cell lymphoma and has had both an autologous (from
his own cells) and an allogeneic (from a donor) stem cell transplant,
in November 2009 and August 2011, respectively He lives in Canada and
is married with two young adult children. He blogs at www.lymphomajourney.wordpress.com and can be followed on Twitter @lymphomajourney.
Just as preparing for a lengthy hospital stay
requires planning, so does returning to home after the hospital. While
your condition and strength will shape the best approach for you, my
experience following my stem cell transplants may be helpful should you find yourself in this situation.
Before you leave get the information you need: Most
hospitals are pretty good in providing written information sheets on
follow-up care, related instructions, and warning signs when and who to
call. Read them and have your caregiver
read and understand them. If they are unclear, ask members of your
medical team (nurses are generally the best on practical questions).
Post them in an easy, visible place so they are quickly accessible when a complication requires you to call. Recognise your weakness: The
nature of the treatment, and the likely limited opportunities for
exercise in the hospital, will mean that you may feel weak upon your
return. In my case, this was particularly acute after being in isolation
after a c. difficile infection (a bacteria that causes severe
intestinal problems), even going up and down stairs was a challenge. ]]>
Recognize other limitations: Given that chemo, radiation and, in my case transplants, are hard on the gut, your need to be closer to a bathroom may be an issue. Ensure you have a "bucket" in the car, in case you have nausea. Get moving and restart your exercise routine: The major constraint for me, post-transplant, was the need to be close to a bathroom given the stomach issues, along with general weakness. Longer walks were out of the question, so I started as soon as I could, walking around the block, in addition to short stints on a bike machine. As my situation stabilized, I could build up to longer walks. My article on Building Back One's Strength provides some suggestions.
Journal your condition: After a while, it begins to blur. So keep a journal -- paper or electronic -- that tracks how you are doing. This provides you with a sense of whether things are getting better or worse, responses to questions at clinic visits and helps you formulate questions for your medical team.
A few minutes each day is all that you need. Of course, the journal can be broadened to capture related emotional and other issues should that be helpful (it was for me), but your medical team will be better placed to help you with even the minimal information. Manage your time with family and friends: Given your weakness, you have to take the lead on what you feel up to or not. Let them know when you are ready for visits and whether you prefer email, writing blog updates or the phone. My personal preference when weak is to email and blog, although for close family, we used the phone.
Whatever suits you, recognizing that as you build up your strength, this will change. Set up your space: If you have a large enough house or apartment, sleep in a separate room. The combination of my stomach problems, plus my need to drink lots of fluid to protect my kidneys and consequent frequent bathroom breaks, made a separate room less disruptive for all.
During the day, I camped out in our den to be close, but yet in a quiet area. Again, as life returns to normal, this becomes less necessary.
While no one approach fits everyone, thinking about these issues and discussing them with your caregiver should make your return easier. Remember, your goal on coming home is to speed your recovery and, all things permitting, minimize return visits to the hospital. Read more posts by Andrew Griffith.]]>
Prostate Cancer Doesn't Hold Life-Long Adventurer Backtag:www2.mdanderson.org,2012:/cancerwise//6.22902012-04-27T13:09:06Z2012-04-27T18:01:31ZWhen his PSA score jumped double digits, he was referred for a number of biopsies that came back positive for prostate cancer. A natural researcher and explorer, Thompson quickly began searching for available treatments. After speaking with a family friend, he learned about MD Anderson's Proton Therapy Center and decided it was for him.Cancerwise Blogger
By William Fitzgerald, MD Anderson Staff Writer
Jon Thompson lives a remarkable life. He's a West Point graduate, a
former pilot in Vietnam and successful business owner. He's visited more
than 42 countries on official U.S. government trips, met with curators
in the Louvre, seen the wreckage of the Titanic on the ocean floor and
is currently searching for Amelia Earhart's lost plane.
You could say he gives the Dos Equis ad-man
a serious run for the "most interesting man in the world" title. For
Thompson, it wasn't a lost bag or plane ticket that interrupted his
life's journey. It was cancer.
When his PSA score jumped double digits, he was referred for a number of biopsies that came back positive for prostate cancer.
A natural researcher and explorer, Thompson quickly began searching for
available treatments. After speaking with a family friend, he learned
about MD Anderson's Proton Therapy Center and decided it was for him. ]]>
After receiving treatment five times a week for two months, Thompson finished on April 12 and is looking forward to resuming his adventures.
"I liken my cancer experience to the Titanic," Thompson said. "I hit the iceberg and the doctors at MD Anderson were my lifeboat."
Next spring or summer, Thompson will join a team of highly respected nautical and marine explorers, who believe they have narrowed the location of Amelia Earhart's lost plane down to a 400 square mile area in the South Pacific. After decades of independent research, the team concluded Earhart ran out of fuel and crashed close to her intended destination off Howland Island.
Besides the real possibility of solving the greatest mystery of the last century, the journey is also about not letting cancer take control.
"I'm 72 years old, but I feel like I'm 45 or 50," Thompson said. "I wasn't going to let prostate cancer hold me back because I have so much to do."
When he's cruising through the deep blue waters, there's no doubt Thompson will have a legion of supporters and friends from MD Anderson watching closely. After all, they were his lifeboat, but he's the captain of the ship now.
]]>
Brain Surgery: Patient Plays Crucial Role tag:www2.mdanderson.org,2012:/cancerwise//6.22892012-04-26T13:04:44Z2012-04-26T13:46:33ZA 63-year-old insurance broker from Lima, Peru, Salazar is having his second brain surgery in as many months. Diagnosed late in 2011 with a central-brain glioblastoma, he underwent surgery in Lima in December. But the tumor was too difficult for the surgeons to remove, so Salazar and his family came to MD Anderson.Mary BrolleyOutside, a winter storm brings lashing winds and heavy rain to Houston.
But in a surgical suite in MD Anderson's Main Building, Nicolas Salazar
is waking up in a hushed room.
"You're doing very well, Nicolas," he says softly. "How do you feel?"
And
with that, the most important member of the team for an awake
craniotomy, in which the patient is conscious and talking for a portion
of the surgery, has arrived.
'Mapping the brain' before removing the tumor A
63-year-old insurance broker from Lima, Peru, Salazar is having his
second brain surgery in as many months. Diagnosed late in 2011 with a central-brain glioblastoma,
he underwent surgery in Lima in December. But the tumor was too
difficult for the surgeons to remove, so Salazar and his family came to
MD Anderson.
The lead neurosurgeon in Room 23 is Raymond Sawaya, M.D., professor and chair of the Department of Neurosurgery, assisted by fellow Lana Christiano, M.D. Before awakening the patient, they opened his skull to expose the brain.
Now they will "map" the brain, with Salazar's help. ]]>
In such a procedure, the anesthesia team first sedates the patient intravenously, then inserts a laryngeal mask airway for more precise control and delivery of the mix of anesthetics and sedatives. Once the patient is deeply asleep, the anesthesiologist administers a scalp block to completely numb the patient's scalp for the surgery.
After the brain is exposed, the surgeon asks the anesthesiologist to awaken the patient so he or she can answer questions designed to demonstrate that speech faculties are intact.
'What do you see right now?' Ferson shows Salazar a series of laminated flash cards, and Salazar names what he sees in Spanish and English. "Bull, toro. Train, tren. Shirt, camiso," he says.
On the other side of the drape, Sawaya administers light electrical charges to areas of the brain. Salazar stumbles only once or twice, and Sawaya makes note of that.
Throughout, Ferson offers the patient ice chips, reassures him he's doing well and clasps his hand. He focuses solely on Salazar and Sawaya. Behind him, James "Monie" Perry, certified registered nurse anesthetist, keeps his eyes on the complex machines that indicate the patient's vital signs.
Once the brain is mapped and the tumor is removed, Sawaya asks Ferson and Perry to put Salazar back to sleep for the rest of the operation.
Read the rest of this story, plus much more, in the spring issue of Conquest magazine. Photo: Wyatt McSpadden
I'm a 30-year-old non-Hodgkin's lymphoma fighter. It's not all that I am, but it's all I'm focused on at the moment. The purpose of my blog, lymphomamaniac, is manifold. 
The challenge
By Justin Ozuna
Jack commented that cancer begins with a single cell and grows into a life-threatening disease, but one family has grown into a major contributor to help end the suffering of human kind.
By Angela Rankin
By David Renninger, facilities project manager
Therapeutic environment
By Toni Franciosi, Department of Social Work
By Charles Haynes, J.D.
By Andrew Griffith
Outside, a winter storm brings lashing winds and heavy rain to Houston.
But in a surgical suite in MD Anderson's Main Building, Nicolas Salazar
is waking up in a hushed room.