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Hi everyone,

I have been diagnosed with recurrent Low grade serous OC, stage 3b. I have had many Surgeries, chemo, meds etc....and now, my oncologist said to me "there is nothing more we can do right now given the extent of the cancer in my peritoneum, no surgery at this time either..." so I looked at alternative treatment and settled on Gerson therapy.
I will go to a clinic in Mexico from April 13th to 28th, then follow the protocol of juicing and eating an organic plant based diet for 2 years , which will require up to 12 freshly pressed juices and 3 meals per day, 3 to 4 coffee enemas per day, and many supplements, ingesting 15 to 20 lbs of organic produce per week!

My oncologist gave me the green light to do this, so it's a go!

I will post my progress here, and can answer questions. If you want to know more about this therapy, go to www.gerson.org. 

Wish me luck!

Good luck @Sylviequebecbc, I will be following with avid interest.
It sounds like a huge commitment, and I'm sending support as you give it a go. I sure hope it has the effect you are wanting.

@Sylviequebecbc
Wow, what a commitment you've made and I'm so glad your oncologist has been engaged and supports the effort.  You hear of so many of these 'treatments' that are off the wall and often very expensive and only turn out to be a cash grab. 
I am so hopeful for you that you have some positive results so I look forward to you documenting this journey for our members under this discussion stream.
Bon chance mon amie   <3

To those who may be investigating alternative therapy please be reminded that OCC, our sponsor, and OVdialogue do not recommend engaging in alternative therapy without the support of your oncology team.  

Looking forward to the updates.  How do you 'follow' a post?

Good morning ladies!thanks for all the good wishes!

@BellaDonna1959, I am not sure how to follow a discussion....would have to check this out! 

I am getting ready for my trip to the Gerson Institute  in Tijuana,  just a few days away....I am getting excited, and nervous too. My family and friends have been very supportive, so important.

I will post some news during my 2 weeks at the clinic,  whish me luck! ??

Good morning!

I just arrived at the Tijuana Health Institute (Gerson clinic) this morning! 

It is a cool morning but sunny. Everyone is very nice and friendly, blood work and vitals done then had my first breakfast and 2 juices. They also brought me a very nice basket of fruit. Will have my first consult with Dr Pedro soon, so I should know about my full program then. 
Bye for now!

@sylviequebec
  You look good=not fatigued looking.
How was the flight? Room look like? Facilities in general ( that you have seen thus far)?
  Wishing you a well rested sleep for your adventures tomorrow. <3

@Sylviequebecbc  - sorry if you already posted this but what is the cost of your 14 days in Cad dollars?  I am very interested in this therapy down the road - can't wait to hear more. You look fantastic! 

Hi @BellaDonna1959
Here is the link to the therapy:
https://gerson.org/licensed-gerson-clinics/

@Sylviequebecbc  I found the cost  - not horrible really.  Thanks.  Sounds really interesting.  I am following mostly vegetarian and doing the juicing but I think a program like this would be a great help overall with the additional therapies.  I see you have to bring a companion?

@BellaDonna1959
it is nice to have a companion but it is not mendatory. There is a women here who came alone, but if you can bring a companion, no additinal cost for that which is great!

@Sylviequebecbc
  Hope your consult went well. In reading your posts do some individuals on this journey go through some mental/emotional stages associated with the physical treatment?  Is that why perhaps a recommendation for a companion? Curious is all. I believe it is quite intensive therapy initially before getting to the maintenance part....kindly correct if this an incorrect statement.

@Strongwoman
Emotions can bubble up, but at the same time, I am so happy to be here, feels right.  Everyone is so friendly and professional, the food is sooo good! I drink 8 juices per day, 2 IV treatmentsNd 2 coffee enemas (not as bad as i thought!) And 3 meals, i am definetly not going to starve!
And the companion is here for support and learn about the therapy so they understand how to help when back home. ??

Hola !
Day 8 here, now drinking 11 juices per day and doing well. The enemas are becoming a normal part of the day, now 3 per day. When I get home, likely will drink 12 or 13 juices per day and have 4 enemas, my Doctor here will discuss this with me before I leave. 
They take such good care of us, really love it here. The doctors ( MDs) are so helpful and meet daily with their patients. I feel so blessed to be here! 
Can't believe it's already been a week! Time flies...
??

@Sylviequebecbc
This reporting is so interesting.  I thank you for sharing your journey at the clinic. 

A reminder to our gals. Sylviequebecbc consulted with her oncology team before entering this alternative therapy. As should always be the rule about initiating a treatment outside the normal standard of care, ensure your medical support is onside and also kept informed.

Wishing you a successful journey gal.  You look marvellous and sound so enthused and upbeat.  
 <3 

I'm very interested in your experience.  Is there a beach there?  Is it warm enough to enjoy it? Other than the enemas and juices - what else do they have for you? What is in the IV cocktail?  Do they do tests before & after to measure any gains?  I'm very curious as to the results of all of these therapies.  I am very open to alternative stuff in addition to my doctor prescribed therapy. 

@Sylviequebecbc  I meant to ask you who provided your health insurance?  I am thinking of traveling later this year, thanks. 

@Sylviequebecbc
  Sounds like you are enjoying the time and experience of your chosen therapy. So happy for you. Making the choice and doing are two totally different things. How is your companion doing with all the info and experience of the therapy? Sounds like the medical team is very attentive and involved daily in your treatment. 
 With one week complete and one more to go, how are you feeling about going home and doing this solo (companion not excluded in this statement).  Have there been any new or recurring emotional/mental aspects to this journey?
  I am positive your team there sets you up for success at home. Looking forward to your upcoming posts along the way.
Take care

@BellaDonna1959 to answer your questions: yes the beach is only 3 short blocks away, we take a walk there every day. The neighborhood is middle class and safe. At the moment, the weather is warmer than at home, my husband enjoyed a swim in the ozone filtered pool they have here the other day! 

Other than the juices (now 11 a day) and coffee enemas (now 3 a day), I get one IV treatment per day consisting of Vitamin C and B17 (laetrile). B17 is a compound found in apricot seeds. 

When I arrived here, I had a physical exam and a very comprehensive blood test. My therapy was based on that plus all the info I sent prior to come. After a week, I had another blood test. When I am back home, I will have monthly video meeting with my MD from here and monthly blood test. 

As for insurance, my insurance does not cover this. I am lucky to have a sponsor to help us. 

@Strongwoman we are leaving this clinic in 3 days, I am sad to go! But having spent a month preparing at home before coming, and all the information we received here, I feel we are ready to continue this for the duration. It will be challenging at first, but our experience here is preparing us. 

This clinic has been here for more than 30 years, and thousands of people have been helped, so many remission lasting years! They have kept all of their records from the beginning, it is all available for any inquisition.  DR Gerson was truly a visionary and a great man. His daughter Charlotte is the one who continued her father's work after he passed suddenly in 1957 or 1958. She opened the clinic in Tijuana, their main offices are in San Diego. You can watch some of her talks on YouTube. 

A good documentary to watch:
What the health? ( on netflix)
A beautiful truth
The food cure ( on apple tv)

Sounds wonderful~! Thanks for all the details.  I'm very interested. 

Already last day here, we leave in the morning.  I already feel more energetic and my brain fog has lifted. The adventure continues! 

@Sylviequebecbc safe travels home and wishing you continued success with the treatment.  We'll all be looking for your next updates.  Thank you for continuing  to share this journey with us.  
 <3 

Fascinating stuff. I wish you all the success and a long and fulfilling life :) 

Food looks great - glad you are feeling well.  Did you see any positive changes in your blood or other tests or is it too soon?  So glad you enjoyed it and found it so beneficial.  

I'm assuming many here have read Kelly A. Turner's Radical Hope and Radical Remission. Interesting stuff. I am a practical person so science based is my normal go to, but I am open to other aspects. Balance is important. 

@Sylviequebecbc
  Good Morning!  Today is a very rainy/wet snow kind of day out.  I have pastry chilling in the fridge and just finishing up the filling for chicken pot pie.
  How are you managing with all of your new knowledge now that you have returned home and have had some time to settle in?  I hope well and that there are continued supports for you if you are experiencing any hiccups.
Take care

@Sylviequebecbc welcome home.  So many of us are interested in your experience and, of course, measurable results.  Will your care team here be doing the traditional testing (CA 125,  CT, etc) to establish any changes since you left for the treatment?  Will you be comfortable sharing those with group, whether positive or negative? Will your oncologist continue to endorse this as an alternative option when all traditional options are no longer viable?

Good afternoon everyone,
I have been home for 1 week and I am able to follow the gerson therapy! Keeps me busy every day, but I am getting more and more organized so it feels ok! 

I do enjoy my juices and meals, the "coffee break" are now easier. I will have blood tests every month, followed by a video conference with my Gerson Doctor, so will have my CA125 tested from time to time. My next PET scan should happen in 3 or 4 months, I will keep you all updated! 

Here is a picture of my lunch today:

@Fearless_Moderator sorry for the late reply! I don't know yet if my oncologist will be ok with my natural healing in the future after the results of my next scan...which is on October 10th. Will keep you updated! 

@Sylviequebecbc
  Hello, just touching base to see how you are doing.  Making meals etc becoming more routine and easier than when you first came home?  How are you feeling in general since before you started this til now? 
  Re: your comment to @Fearless_Moderator, I would hope your Oncologist would support it as I believe from your posts and our combined research on LGSC, there are no more options for us. I know you were taken off both the Letrozole and Trametinib.  Currently there does not seem to be any other trials coming up as of yet for us.  My hope is the your Oncologist will continue to monitor, test and support your new journey and utilize that information for "tools in their toolbox" for any future patients in the same position. Who knows.  I wish you well and will look forward to your updated posts and any subsequent results.
Take care

Hi @Strongwoman!
Thanks for your post. I am keeping up with the Gerson therapy, so far so good. I had my first monthly blood work last week and a follow up with my doctors, all is good, my WBC is slowly going up back to near normal, my cholesterol is lowering, my triglycerides are now normal, all good! 

I will have my CA 125 tested on my next blood test, in 2-3 weeks, fingers crossed! 

I am greatful for the helps my daughter and husband are giving me, makes my days better! 

I will keep you posted as I go along, 
Take care too

@Sylviequebecbc that's wonderful news and you sound so optimistic.  Here's hoping the CA125 reflects the treatment.  We're all rooting for you, gal.  

@Sylviequebecbc
  Checking in to see how you are doing with your regime. So good to have hubby and daughter on board to assist with things.
  I have been thinking of you and wanted to touch base to see how you are doing. Please do give us an update as I would be interested to hear and as long as you would like to share with the group.

me too - would love an update - I have been thinking of you ofen.

@Sylviequebecbc  Would love an update - how are you doing? How are your numbers?  My daughter wants me to do this so I'm very interested.  Are you able to continue with the protocol?

@BellaDonna1959 Good morning! Sorry for the late posting . I have been keeping busy, 4 months and counting on the Gerson! All is going well so far.  I am still following the protocol, feeling good! ??

I have blood test every months, zoom meetings with my Gerson Dr following each test. It can take a few months for the body to fully detox, depending on each person's history. I would highly recommend this! Let me know if you have any specific questions, I promise to check this site more often! 

Here is my breakfast this morning, my favorite meal of the day! Have a great day!

@Sylviequebecbc   Thank you for sharing.  I, personally, will be waiting for your update with your Oncologist this month and what the CT scan and blood work is showing there.  Take care

Thanks for the update. Let us know if your test results show positive changes - that would be very motivating.  :)

@Sylviequebecbc  Hello!  I am checking in to see if you either have a date for your CT scan OR have chosen not to do one since you are feeling better.  I would be interested either way.  I started turkey tail mushrooms on the weekend.  The first 2 links are what they look like before I put them in the oven to dry them out.  The last 2 pictures is what the tincture looks like initially.  It is now sitting for 6 wks and will then take another picture then.  The tea does not taste bad. In fact I quite enjoy the taste.  
I am off to get my CT scan today and see what is going on inside......stay tuned!

Hi @BellaDonna1959 and @Strongwoman

Nice work on the mushroom tincture! My PET scan is on Oct 10th, I do hope I will get good news. I was having increasing amount of vaginal bleeding, but it is slowing down now! I am so happy about that. My blood work is good, should have another CA 125 done in a few weeks or month, 6 months and still going strong on the therapy! 

Great to hear @Sylviequebecbc - can't wait to hear your results. Hoping for the very best news. 

@Sylviequebecbc  Thank you for the update.  I imagine the vaginal bleeding was worrisome at the time.  I am thankful it has slowed down.  Let us know any updates you have when you are ready to share them.  In the meantime, keep going with your therapy and I look forward to your update.
  Yes, I am excited about the tincture.  The tea is surprisingly sweet tasting.  I was expecting a really earthy tasting tea and am happy with the surprise!

Good morning ladies! 

Had my CT scan, talked to my oncologist, and here is the 411: generally, the cancer has grown, but The lesion on my liver is gone! And the report also states " the majority of the hypermetabolic peritoneal metastases are calcified" !!? My oncologist said it could be a positive thing...??

But for the last 2 weeks, the vaginal bleeding has increased  I don't know if any of you are experiencing this? My GP has prescribed Tranexamic Acid, but I am hesitant  about taking that, since I have a history of deep vein thrombosis ( happened twice ) ....is anyone dealing with this? I feel I am in a race and my cancer is trying to take the lead....

@Sylviequebecbc  I don't know what to do with your news.  Do I say I am happy or not happy.  How do you feel about the information you were given?  In some ways, your post suggests that you are perhaps happy with the results and that the lesions are perhaps in a good state (as suggested by your Oncologist).  
  I don't like the fact that you are experiencing vaginal bleeding and for a few weeks now.  That is concerning and hope you address that and obtain some answers/guidance soon.  I, personally, have not experienced that as of yet but do know other ladies on this site have.  I looked up the Tranexamic Acid and I think you are on the right wave length regarding the deep vein thrombosis.  It says that ANY blood clots, embolisms, occlusions or thrombosis are to be discussed with your doctor.  It acts by BLOCKING the breakdown of blood clots which would be very concerning if you had a history of this previously.  I, personally, don't think I would chance it given your past history but you are in the drivers seat of your own journey.  How do you feel about it, given that information?
  I know how you feel "in a race and my cancer is trying to take the lead", this is a hard one to process on many levels. Let us know how we may be able to assist you with this or if you need any suggestions in trying to process it.
  Take care and so nice to hear about you.  Thank you for the update, 

Happy to hear from you Sylvie.  Some mixed results.  Are you off chemo now and just doing the Gerson Therapy?  Sorry to hear it has grown - does he mean the lesions got bigger or they spread to other areas?  Great news about the calcifications and the liver - sounds like the blood supply got cut off some growths. My own CA-125  is the lowest ever - 73.7 down from over 424 at diagnosis.  My scans show 'stable' no enlargements or spread - but I constantly have the pains all around my belly and other areas coming and going and I'm always wondering what each twinge/pain/pressure/bloat means.    I wish we could just scan our bodies with a new age tool and know exactly what is going on, where and what to do about it. The unknown is a challenge.  I don't dwell on it, but it hovers like a mist - some days I pay it no mind at all and others it engulfs me a little.  But my overall fear of this disease is way down now.  I'm on Taxol, Avastin and a super healthy diet and RSO oil.  I'm always eager to hear about your updates.  Sorry to hear about the bleeding.  My most annoying side-effect is the heavy tired swollen legs and the constant tingling/numbness in my fingers and toes.  Keep on keeping on Sylvie~

@BellaDonna1959 my oncologist stopped all my treatment since none helped. He also said that chemo will only give 15% to 20 % chance to help, and my quality of life would decrease. That was last January and that is why i looked for an alternative therapy. So i am keeping on the GT and keeping my fingers crossed!

@Sylviequebecbc  Good for you!  Great outlook in my opinion!  Do all that you want and can do while you can as we never know when our bodies will decide that it is time to slow down. 

@Sylviequebecbc   Thought I would check in to see how you are doing.  I am headed to PMH on Monday to discuss what possible Phase II trials are available, what they are, side effects, outcomes etc to determine if it is or is not an avenue I am willing to look at.  What I do know, is that I will not sacrifice the quality of life I currently have if the alternative will make me sicker/weaker with little to no better outcomes.  I like how I can function and even if it is diminishing a little, that is ok.  I don't want to feel ill on top of it, if at all possible.  If everything goes along well, may consider a juicer.  Do you have any brands that you have looked into that you would say, 'stay away from' or 'are better'?  Let me know as I realize fresh fruit and veggies are no longer in my future and will miss that.  If juicing is acceptable and tolerated by my body then that is ok too.  Take care.... <3

Hi Ladies! Sorry I have been silent for a while. I am still on Gerson, still hoping. My issue is that I have vaginal bleeding and passing large clots from time to time. My hemoglobin dropped too low last week so I had to get a blood transfusion. My oncologist referred me to a radiation oncologist, so will see if I am a candidate for radiation to zap my lesions in my vaginal vault. Any body else went through this? 

@Sylviequebecbc  I am sorry to hear you are experiencing this.  It must be scary and worrisome to be going through all that.  How did the blood transfusion go and did it help?  I have not been through that but have been assessed for radiation prior and was not a candidate at the time.  Please keep us posted about yourself and what happens regarding radiation.  Wishing you better days to come. 

Thank you @Strongwoman! 

@Sylviequebecbc  Thought I would check in with you to see how you are doing this week.  Any issues?  Stable or having difficulties?  My thoughts are with you as you continue along your journey.  <3

Hi @Strongwoman 
No bleeding for 6 days, it does come up on and off. My referral for radiation as been approved, I just need another CT scan before I go meet the radiation oncologist. The only issues here is that I live in a small city, in the south-east of BC and the cancer center is in Kelowna, 6 HR drive fro  here! Wish our local régional hospital had a good oncology department ! 

@Sylviequebecbc  That is good to hear that you have not had bleeding for 6 days.  How many rounds of radiation will you have for this?  One thing my friend told me is that radiation isn't felt until about the 2nd week. Then the symptoms really set in.  Some food for thought before you begin.  Wow!  6 hours away eh?  That is quite far.  Do they have hotels near the hospital with reduced rates for cancer patients?  I would hope so and might be worth the ask.  That is too long of a day otherwise.  Let us know how you make out in the coming days.  I will be thinking of you.  Thank you for the update.  Night  <3

@Sylviequebecbc   I thought I would check in to see how you are doing.  Any developments regarding receiving treatment soon?   How has the bleeding been?  How are you doing in general?  Let us know when you can.  
Take care of you!  <3

@Strongwoman 
I have my consultation appointment on April 8th, so I will find out then how many radiation treatments I will need. I would love to connect with someone who has had radiation to know how it went and how they felt, I might create another conversation about that.
Funny enough, no more bleeding since my big 3 days of bleeding at the end of February!

In general, I feel pretty good.  No pains, my appetite is ok, I am still following the Gerson therapy, down to 8 juices per day plus my 3 meals, and 2 coffee enemas. I haven't been as active since I started Gerson, no time to go skiing! So I am pretty out of shape! 

How are things with you? How are you feeling? Where are you in your journey? 

Sending love ?? 

@Sylviequebecbc   That sounds like a great idea...starting a new thread on Radiation as the topic.  I am positive there are ladies that have been through this before.  Don't forget to check by typing that topic in the search bar for any previous threads that may come up as well.  
  Thankful that the bleeding has ceased for you.  That must be a huge relief.  I bet the Gerson therapy is time consuming.  You seem to be doing well on it which is good to hear as well.  Perhaps you will find some free time to do something fun for yourself soon.
  As for me, I tried Tamoxifen as recommended by PMH but the side effects were too much.  I let it go for a week then checked in with the pharmacist and my team before making the decision to stop it.  I took a break from it and waited 3 days and have since resumed with the Letrozole.  It seems to have minimal effects and will remain on it until I am told I shouldn't.  I struggle with bowel obstructions on a regular basis and have to follow a low residue diet which means no more than 2 grams of fibre at a time.  It restricts so much including NO fresh fruit or veggies.  I love food and this is a hard one for me.  I do it because I am so fearful of the obstructions.  I meet with a surgeon on Monday to see if he can do a pro-acitve surgery to help with these obstructions I am having.  I have no idea what he may or may not say.  I will post more after I have been to see him.  Some hypothesis is that I may end up with some sort of ostomy if the surgery is done.  I don't know if this is true or not.  Will see.  It would definitely be life changing if I do and a learning curve.  Will see how it goes...stay tuned.
  In the meantime, have a wonderful weekend whatever you are doing.   <3

@Strongwomen Hi, I am sending you courage and love, that would be a really life changing event. I have started my radiation therapy, had to drive 550km from home to get here in Kelowna BC. I am staying here for the 5 treatments, to stop the bleeding for a while.

It is going well so far, not much side effects til now. The "peak" will happen 7 days after the last treatment I am told, so we'll see.

Best luck to you, thinking about you ❤️

@Sylviequebecbc Thank you for the kind words. It has been life changing in some ways. I am not sure if you saw my post in the Teal Thursday posts. If not, here is the long and short. I went to my Oncology appt 2 wks ago. We were able to see the results of my normal 3 month CT scan and the specialized CT scan the surgeon had asked for. Both pretty much stated the same. I have growth and signs of progression as well as my left kidney is worsening as well. When I asked about my CA 125 levels I was shocked. They jumped from the 300's to the 600's. I was almost speechless when she told me. When I asked the famous question "What next". I was informed that I could try chemo if I wanted to but they really didn't have anything else to offer me. I have declined chemo as it will mess with my bloodwork, make my immune system tank and I will feel unwell for a good part of the days. There is no guarantee with LGSC that it will even work given the research on the subject. We discussed end of life and what that might look like for myself and what my wishes are. I am set if I run into a situation where I may have an irreversible bowel obstruction and how to get me from home to hospice for it. My wish is to not be in hospital at all. So, I am at peace knowing we have everything in place should that happen.

Looking back now and having time to process a lot of this, I am not so convinced about the immanency of it all. I know we didn't discuss the role that switching from Letrozole to Tamoxifen, to nothing for a few days and then back to Letrozole may have played in any of this. Not the growth/progression per se as it seems to be minimal on the scan but the jump in the CA 125 levels. I have since remained on the Letrozole and am taking Turkey Tail Tea daily. I may ask for bloodwork in the weeks to come. I have an appetite, energy and am feeling good in general. So, I embracing what is for now.

As for you, when did the bleeding start again? You were on a streak of no bleeding. I am saddened to hear it returned for you. How it the radiation going? I am thankful that they were able to accommodate you and adjust your treatment so that you are not doing all that travelling. Yes, I have heard from several ladies both with this disease and others with another type of cancer that the effects of radiation are cumulative and hit anywhere in the 7-10 day range. I don't know if that is good or bad knowing it is coming. Definitely lets one plan. I hope that whatever side effects come are manageable for you and not unbearable. Please keep us updated on how you are doing. I think of you often esp as we have the same type of cancer. Sisters of a sort….🤗

Wishing you minimal side effects and some joy/smiles in the days to come. Take care of you! 💕

@Strongwoman I am glad you are feeling good given all that is happening with you sister ❤️

I came back home a few days ago from Kelowna where I had radiation treatments, and all went well. I am recovering, a bit tired, letting my bowels recover. It went better than expected, everyone was so nice and helpful. The radiation oncologist will call me June 5th, so we'll see what the follow-up will be like. I am on a modified gerson therapy right now since I cannot do any coffee enemas for 2-3 weeks, feels like a little holiday with all the time I have on my hand!

Keep me informed on how your journey unfolds, I will do the same. Big hugs and take care 🤗

@Sylviequebecbc Thank you💕

I am glad it went better than expected for you. That is wonderful to hear. So, in a few days time the effects of the radiation might start coming through? Is that right? Meaning side effects. Glad you get a little break from it and some time back. Rest but do some things that you want to do in case you are down and out for a few days. Sounds like they were receptive and respectful of your Gerson Diet. That is nice to hear that complementary therapies are being considered when evaluating a patient as a whole.

As for me, I am coming off another journey of some sort. Not a full obstruction, ileus maybe, I don't know what to call it. I started feeling unwell Sat last week and Sunday I was not good. I started taking my Dex twice a day and into the next day. I had to do my sublingual Odansetron Monday night and could only have water, diluted gatorade, jello. Even those were not sitting well in terms of the abdominal discomfort I felt. The next day or two I had nothing and though I might be coming around but yesterday the pain in the abdomen was not good. Like spasming and feeling raw and tender inside. My Palliative Doc got me to take a Dex and Pantoprazole (stomach coater) in the afternoon. I kept to the clear fluid diet throughout all this. Last night I went to bed and this morning am feeling better. I am hoping it stays that way. Today, an Ensure is sitting in there and being good so I am happy. I chuckle a little inside when this stuff happens because all family wants to do is feed you and they don't truly understand that I cannot. It bothers them but so not worth the risk for me. I am thankful I have had no vomiting or nausea with this and bowel movements are still occurring. Each time I face something it gets scarier when it doesn't seem to turn around in a normal length of time for me. But here is to today being a new day and things easing some. I truly hope it stays that way and I can have some more food in the days to come. Thanks for asking and checking. We are in this together!🤗

@Strongwoman stay strong and I am playing for you 🙏

A family member sent me an interview with a Dr Jamal, oncologist and researcher somewhere in eastern Canada. The interview included 2 cancer patients who were diagnosed with a stage 4 cancer (lymphoma and colorectal) and entered a clinical trial involving a fecal transplant and immunotherapy. The researchers believe that a reason some people do not respond to immunotherapy is because their immune system is sub-par, because of a depleted or lacking gut biome. It was very interesting and the 2 patients benefitted from it, both in remission! I know that immunotherapy is not used for ovarian cancer, but I hope this will change.

I decided to go visit my family in and around Montréal, so I am flying there later this morning! I am so excited. I have been having a bit of bleeding again, taking TXA for it. It's a bit disappointing. But a visit with my family and friends will do me a world of good!

Have a wonderful day, sending hugs 🤗

Interesting @Sylviequebecbc I don't know that I would be a candidate for either of those due to the locations of tumours etc. I am still very interested in hooking up with a local TCM person in the next week or two. He has been on a research sabbatical which is making him knowledgeable in my books. If anything, if he could help me with the eating and my gut issues alone, I would be happy. What I wouldn't give to eat fresh fruit and veggies again and even some of those cooked. I miss food so much. I was always a healthy eater so this new diet with low fibre is hard for me. Yes, finding work arounds for sure but still miss a good salad, all the fresh that is starting to come alive and the variety in my diet. I am keeping my fingers crossed that he will be helpful that way. I would love to put more weight back on that I have lost. I am thankful every day that I try to keep my strength up by walking and doing things like gardening to keep my muscles moving. I don't know where I would be if I had lost a ton of weight initially and then the weight I have lost now. So thankfully the steroid weight gain during chemo helped me to get to this point. I was probably close to 170 lbs at the end of my chemo treatments and am now down to below 125 lbs. So a lot of weight lost. I eat and do what I can. Try to get the protein in me as well and take a multi vitamin.

Your trip to Montreal sounds wonderful. I have visited both new and old and love the Old there. Quebec is a beautiful province and so far I have not seen a part of it I did not like. I truly hope you enjoy your time with family. Sorry to hear you are bleeding again. I had not heard of TXA before and have just looked it up, For how long are you on that? It is take it while you are bleeding type thing then stop? Or a daily no matter what type of dosage? Is it working? Any side effects? How have you been feeling? I think the time with your family and friends is what the doctor ordered. It will be so good for your mind, body and soul! Go enjoy your time, laugh, stay up late, drink, eat and have fun! Take pics and make memories for that is what we all need to remember to do!

Thanks for the update and look forward to your next one. Enjoy that trip!!!

Hello @Strongwoman , I am always so happy to hear from you!

I came back from visiting my family last Wednesday, I had such a good visit, so glad I went! I did get more vaginal bleeding on my way there, so the radiation didn't really work stopping that....I still take TXA when I am bleeding only, no side effects so far.

The day after I came back, I started having terrible cramps and anyway, landed in hospital with a "low grade small bowel obstruction". Not what I expected. I am day 4 in hospital and recuperating well, started taking in fluids yesterday. I too will have to stay on a low fibre diet from now on they tell me, I know what you mean about wanting to eat fresh salads and not being able to! I do plan to make fresh green juices, no fibre in that but at least I will get the vitamins and nutrients from that. Not the same but we have to work with what we have!

I am speaking with my oncologist Tuesday, it is so stupid that because I live in BC and my oncologist is in Alberta, when I have a CT scan here, they cannot share the images with him, just the written report, so I have to request a CD of the images and get it to my oncologist myself...! I am hoping I an still see him in person but I guess it depends when they will discharge me.

I am struggling with this turn of event. Having lots of up and downs. Trying to stay in the moment and take it one day at a time, but I am a bit scared. There. Enough!

Sending love ❤️

@Sylviequebecbc I am so sorry you are going through this! Is there a way you can ask someone if you are eligible to get a SRK Kit for the home? This helps to keep me out of the hospital and the meds are managed at home so that I don't have to wait in the ER. In it would be something for the nausea and pain that are administered via a IM port that the nurse puts in. This is for when you cannot orally take any meds. They are easy to administer either yourself or for a family member to do so. I avoid going to the hospital as much as I can.

That does sound like a very convoluted way to have communication between the two parties and that the onus lies on you to do so. There has to be a better way. I would ask at the hospital and see what answers they come up with. Cry if you have to saying how hard it is to navigate it all. If tears help get you the help, use them!

I bet you have had lots of ups and downs. Every time I have one now, I am fearful it will be the fateful one. I get it. I know how scary it can be. I am here for you anytime. Just reach out. It is hard and can be scary. I am thankful you are getting the help you need. Take care and chat soon.🤗

Thanks for the info @Strongwoman I will look into this!

Good morning @Strongwoman ,

I returned to the hospital last Tuesday with another bout of cramping and vomiting . It resolved faster this time with medications, they kept me 3 days only. I finally got a home med kit so I can manage the next time at home! Your input was so helpful. Yes, it is scary! How often does it happen to you? The abdominal cramps and vomiting?

Have a great weekend,

Sending love 💕

It can happen often like weekly or biweekly for me but I am getting better at recognizing the symptoms that I can generally keep on top of it that I don't reach the vomiting stage. Most times anyways. Currently I have ports in as we navigate through this. It's like my body knows when they are out and start to act up. Silly thing,

I am so happy I could help and that you are now set up at home @Sylviequebecbc It will provide you with such relief to have that there now and know you don't have to go to the hospital every time. I know I am thankful of that.

The food journey continues on for me. We think that I struggle still due to location of tumour and then the areas of narrowing and normal tissue and how it is all tied up with peristalsis. Not fun and I can't seem to find the magic spell in this one. Still eating low fibre and more semi liquid than anything. Nausea is off/on today as well which as we all know is not fun. Abdominal pain has diminished some from a couple days ago. Muddling my way through it, is what I am doing. Whatever I think might help or I might be able to eat, I am. About to embark on a ginger twist tea to see if it helps with some of the nausea. As for eating, had an english muffin with nutella and an ensure for lunch. Seems to be sitting okay. Bought some ice cream today with 0 grams of fibre which is exciting. One of them is a peach one which I am excited to try. Got grocery shopping done for the family as it is to get stinking hot again the beginning of this week. That means lots of fruit in the house which I can't eat but they can. Sucks but glad I got the shopping done and all put away. I will see what I have for dinner, ramen noodles or chicken noodle soup…..which one will win out tonight? LOL The struggle is real and I wonder how long this will continue and she will let me keep taking Dex to fight this off. Or is this the start of a downhill battle that is coming? Whatever it is, I work away at my Legacy projects in case it is the downhill one. Want to ensure I have certain things done and one of them is the journaling I need to do for a few of them to help them through their grieving process when the time comes. It is something I can give them now that will benefit them later. Words that may comfort them and help them through their own processing of it all and trying to make sense of something that won't feel like it has any sense at all. A gift of sorts from me to them and for them individually. I have started several journals and pick and choose which one I work on for the day. That way I won't get stagnant with one only and it will remain fresh for them all. That is the thought process anyways. Well off to journal and try this tea. Let's hope it settles things slightly or more than that would be even better but I will settle for the slightly. Take care all and chat soon.

Bonjour @Strongwoman

I really enjoy reading your postings, I know what you are going through, same here. Feeling "full" these days, had a bad one yesterday with nausea and acid reflux. Could barely eat or drink, slept a lot. I guess days like this will happen on and off, I have to enjoy the ones where I feel better! At least, no new bowel obstruction lately, keeping my finger crossed! Not too sure what I will have for lunch or dinner today, keeping it simple.

The weather is hot here, a bit smoky today. We are keeping our fingers cross so we don't have a forest fire close to here, so far so good.

Take care and chat again soon!

@Sylviequebecbc Thank you! As I ramble on some days, I wonder who reads what I write and what they think. It is but a fleeting thought though.

Yes, it is hard when we feel "off" esp with the nausea and for you the acid reflux that goes with it. No rhyme nor reason to any of this either. Hoping you resting yesterday helped and that today is a better day for you. Have you been able to eat a little more today or be up and about a bit more compared to yesterday? Yes, it is a very big WIN, if the symptoms don't equal bowel obstruction. A very good day indeed for us!

Today, I woke up and am feeling "off". I had a great day yesterday and ate a good amount of food that is on the list and I can have. I was really quite hungry. The bowel movements were normal too which always is a worry as we feel what we do. Today, I am bloated and feeling some abdominal discomfort. I will be laying low today. Currently having a lemon twist tea that is to be calming and some digestive cookies to see if that helps at all. One day at a time turns into one hour at a time as we go through this. Some hours feel longer than others. All the while wondering why and what triggered it this time. Of which we never know the answer and take it in stride as we go about our day. Hoping something we ingest will be the "magic" that turns it around for us and lets us feel "normal" again.

Hot weather there and a bit smoky would make you wonder if there is something close by you. Fingers crossed there is not and it is smoke blowing in from further away. So scary these fires and the potential they have to damage so much in such a short period of time. I will be thinking of you and hoping that the smoke stays as is and there is no worsening of conditions near you at all. It would be terrible to have to flee somewhere due to the fires coming close. I have not experienced a forest fire but have a fire that took our entire home. I understand some of what people go through and it is not good at all. So for now, praying they stay at bay and can be contained as best they can be for all involved. My heart goes out to those fighting the fires and the long hours they are putting in and dedication as they do their best to combat the fire at hand while they do their best to stay safe as well. 💖