Monday, April 1, 2013

Year One Without a Stomach-Terminal Gastric Cancer

I have been off for a while.  I got an infection at the end of January and the antibiotics wiped out my digestive system. Lost more weight (and hope). I have just returned from a 'once in a lifetime' vacation in Hawaii.  I have learned a lot and want to share some things.

Today I am 111 lbs!!!  Not only did the loss stop, but I gained.  I can finally eat normal food (including fresh fruits and vegetables).  The eating key now is:  WHEN (how often), PORTION SIZE and CHEWING (especially large blocks of proteins).

My blood work is phenomenal (normal) and my scan showed no advancement!  Don't misunderstand, I am terminal, and it is building strength.  Meanwhile, I am WELL and am getting stronger everyday! 

I am Extremely Grateful for Medical Marijuana.  Without it, my digestive track would remain at a semi-constant state of nausea.  Those times without nausea, there still is NO appetite.  Only pot has resolved this issue (and Riesling wine).  I start to eat about 2 hours after completion of last meal.  Keep portions smaller.  I start my day with hot tea, switch to iced tea (sometimes) and Riesling starts just afternoon. Absolutely cannot drink any Water, Carbonated bevs, any Acidic or Beer.  Mixed drinks, with juice (Mai Tai's) are awesome. The secret to my eating success (pot and Riesling).  Unfortunately, I don't believe this would be a normal course for most people.  It seems totally frikin ridiculous to me, yet this is what has been tried and tested (successful for me).  Again, I am NOT advising this regiment.

My oncol is completely aware.  He has been so amazed by my last 2 scans & blood work, he asked what I was doing.  I said "partying like a rock star".  We talked, told him everything.  We had just gotten back from Carlos Santana in Vegas.  Saw Ron White... plans for Hawaii.  He told me to keep up with whatever I was doing, it was 'obviously working for me'.  You know, I think the stress factor is a big key.  TOLD the Doc:  Pot takes the edge off, changes your outlook, gives you ideas and even laughs.  The wine, well it helps my digestive track.  I have drank VERY heavily my entire life.  My liver and kidneys (and all other organs) are completely normal.  Funny, I always thought it would  be my liver.  Either way, he agreed, it has nothing to do with my Stomach Cancer.  Never will know how I got that lucky draw.  He gave me my monthly B12 and sent me on my way, both of us smiling.  I mean what is he gonna say to me?  My numbers are damn near perfect and I gained weight.

The weight, I believe is muscle.  Was on the go for about 20 days straight. My stamina has increased along with my strength.  Snorkeled reefs, swam with dolphins, climbed up/down in/out of waterfalls.  My attitude in November was that I would not be able to do anything in Hawaii, that I wouldn't have the strength.  What has happened to me is incredible!  I know now that I will make it to 50 and will be here for 1 more XMas, at least.  Knowing that gives me even more strength.  SMILING NOW  :) 

Thank you to those who follow.  I will go update my condition calendar and reply to a couple of posts shortly.

Fortunate One