Tuesday, June 19, 2012

The significance of nine......

The number nine is quite significant, let me tell you why.....

Half of all people diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer die within nine months. It's been just over nine months since I was diagnosed and I'm still here - WOOHOO!!! Talk about gratitude with a capital G!!!

My last oncologist appointment was not great - news wasn't good but wasn't terrible either. My most recent CT scan showed no improvement but also no disease progression in the left lung. However, there has been some disease progression in the right lung. The plan is to do a repeat CT scan at the end of July and evaluate whether or not it is time to go for the standard IV chemo cocktail.

In the meantime, Fran the man and I are here at the Kushi Institute in Becket MA on a 2 day personalized program learning how to become macrobiotic. Some people have had great success with macrobiotics and I've heard talk that the western medical community is planning to do research. I just want to do what I can to support and strengthen my own immune system. I may also go to a local Catholic retreat center for a few days of spiritual contemplation.

It seems this cancer stuff requires a multi-faceted approach - eastern, western, body, mind, and spirit. So, how about that for a holistic approach - who knew you could combine Japanese and Catholic philosophies and practices!!! It's a crazy and wonderful world we live in.......

So peeps, be happy, be healthy, and enjoy this crazy ride   ; )     

XOXOXO