The Day That Changed My Life - The Important Role of Volunteers

In the spirit of the holiday season, we found another fabulous survivor who shares her journey through Acute Myelogenous Leukemia. Acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) is a cancer of the blood and bone marrow — its rapid progression affects a group of white blood cells which normally develop into the various types of mature blood cells, such as red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets.

Brittney shares the challenges she faced and the joys of having the volunteers who came in to cheer the children up. As we prepare to celebrate the holiday season, we think of those who are hospitalized and are unable to join their families at home. Our thoughts and prayers are with them. However, it is great to listen to Brittney's account as we share in her gratitude to the volunteers - Cheers!!!

While each journey is unique, we all share a common theme - cancer changes our lives forever.

The Day That Changed My Life - Voices of Young Survivors

The Day That Changed My Life has found an incredible group of young survivors who have had various cancers and have openly shared their journeys through a series called iT can'T own me. You can hear the story of the athlete who through a minor accident, found out that he had cancer. Whether it's faith, family, friends or even strangers who helped them through their journey, they all have a new appreciation for life and now willing to share and encourage others. Feel free to share their journey with everyone you know. Someone you know, may know someone who needs to see this.

While each journey is unique, we all share a common theme cancer changes our lives forever.

The Day That Changed My Life - Surviving Brain Cancer

Survival is quite a journey which Gail Goodwin, Beth Rosenthal and Brenda Brady can all relate to as they have faced brain cancer. Can you imagine hearing that you have just been diagnosed with brain cancer? No one knows what it will be like until they hear those words - you have cancer. Listen to these somewhat difficult yet incredible journeys and please share with others as someone you know may need to be inspired or encouraged.

While each journey is unique, we all share a common theme cancer changes our lives forever.





The Before and After of Brenda's Journey.....

The Day That Changed My Life - Caregivers

The journey of the cancer patient is shared by the caregiver. Caregivers are essential to the cancer patient. This week we will focus on the caregiver, the ones who walk hand in hand throughout the journey. They can never be thanked enough for enduring the transitions not only on the physical level but also on the emotional toll that it takes on every level.

Do you know a caregiver? Please give them a hug from us :-)

While each journey is unique, we all share a common theme - cancer changes our lives forever.

The Day That Changed My Life - Should This Be Happening To Me?

As we all know, cancer awareness months are great campaigns to highlight the various cancers, the need for funding for research and development of drugs, assistance for patients and promoting prevention, screenings/early detection. However, we are all too aware that cancer can become a part of a person's life all too suddenly, without warning and it certainly does not discriminate.

This week we feature the journeys of young women who were diagnosed with breast cancer. The awareness is to bring about the information that should be shared with everyone - especially young women. The controversy of mammograms and screenings for breast cancer continues as the age range was suggested for annual screenings women over 40 - now suggested to begin at 50 years old. Well, for Kristina Hernandez, Maimah Karmo and Mona Harris breast cancer did not wait for them to reach 50 years old. It came much sooner, even sooner than 40 years old.

While each journey is unique, we all share a common theme - cancer changes our lives forever.

The Day That Changed My Life - Lung Cancer Awareness

November is the National Lung Cancer Awareness Month. Many people assume that lung cancer is only for those who have a history of smoking. The truth is that there are many different factors that may cause lung cancer:

Age over 65: Most people are older than 65 years when diagnosed with lung cancer. However, recent studies show that there are number of cases that are seen in people as young as their 20's.

Air pollution: Air pollution may slightly increase the risk of lung cancer. The risk from air pollution is higher for smokers.

Asbestos and other substances: People who have certain jobs(such as those who work in the construction and chemical industries)have an increased risk of lung cancer.

Family history of lung cancer: People with a father, mother, brother, or sister who had lung cancer may be at slightly increased risk of the disease, even if they don not smoke.

Personal history of lung cancer: People who have had lung cancer are at increased risk of developing a second lung tumor.

Radon: Radon is a radioactive gas that you cannot see, smell, or taste. It forms in soil and rocks. People who work in mines may be exposed to radon. In some parts of the country, radon is found in houses. Radon damages lung cells, and people exposed to radon are at increased risk of lung cancer.

Tobacco smoke: Tobacco smoke causes most cases of lung cancer. It's by far the most important risk factor for lung cancer and exposure to any of the other risk factors only heightens the chances of developing lung cancer..

While each journey is unique,we all share a common theme - cancer changes our lives forever.




More on Lung Cancer

The Day That Changed My Life - This week in Cancer

This week we learned some big news about two champions who are facing cancer. First we heard the sad news about the former heavyweight champion Joe Frazier is now in hospice care. Mr. Frazier is said to have liver cancer and although there were rumors of his death, reports have not yet confirmed that he has passed away. However, it appears that the former champion is gravely ill.

Another champion is winner Ethan Zohn featured here The Survivor's Real Journey to Survive who is now facing the return of Hodgkins Lymphoma. Ethan Zohn winner of Survivor Africa shared his journey and was well on his road through remission when it all came back.

However, while Ethan is facing Hodgkins Lymphoma head on even participating in the 2011 New York City Marathon, Joe Frazier is in the final stages of cancer. We are keeping them both and their family in our thoughts and prayers.

I would also like to add that singer Andy Williams has shared that he is undergoing treatment for bladder cancer. At 83 years old, Mr. Williams plans to continue to perform in 2012. We love that spirit and we are cheering him on as he undergoes treatment for his cancer.

While each journey is unique, we all share a common theme - cancer changes our lives forever.

The Day That Changed My Life - Resilience

Mark Herzlich was a star at his Boston College football when his life was changed, he had a rare bone cancer known as Ewing's Sarcoma. With all of his hopes and dreams hanging on in the uncertainty of his journey, Mark made a determination to comeback in his health but also in his quest to be a professional football player. In sharing the journey of those who have been touched by cancer, we hope that you will be encouraged/inspired. Be sure to share with others as someone you know, may know someone that needs to read/see this journey.

While each journey is unique, we all share a common theme cancer changes our lives forever.

The Day That Changed My Life - Dance!!

The Day That Changed My Life is looking forward to 2012 and we are working on our return to the stage. We are so excited we could all dance. This week we present a flash mob dance which celebrated survivors of breast cancer.

While each journey is unique, we all share a common theme - cancer changes our lives forever.

The Day That Changed My Life - Our 1st Year and more...

The Day That Changed My Life celebrated our 1st Anniversary on Saturday October 15th and as we plan for the return to the Off Broadway stage next year, we continue to look for the stories that shares a real human touch to this disease. Recently, there have been many efforts in bringing awareness to cancer and as October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the walks, runs, campaigns and even movies are great efforts to highlight the need to be an active member in the fight against breast cancer.

The movie Five directed by Demi Moore, Alicia Keys, Jennifer Aniston, Penelope Spheeris and Patty Jenkins is an anthology of five short films that highlights the impact of breast cancer. It was great and it may remind you somewhat of the play. If you have missed it, you can see it here --> Five

This week we share the journey of New York's Channel 7 Eyewitness News reporter Stacey Sager who after beating breast cancer, now has to deal with ovarian cancer.

While each journey is unique, we all share a common theme cancer changes our lives forever.

The Day That Changed My Life - Journey of a Family

When cancer comes a knocking, it can knock at anyone's door. Here we found a family whose lives were changed by cancer when Charlie was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is a cancer of the bone marrow and blood which progresses rapidly without treatment. Therefore, it's important to start treatment as quickly as possible once there is a diagnosis.

The Riders share their incredible journey one that had its setbacks yet they held on tight as a unit - we had to share it with you. Be prepared to fall in love with the Rider family.

While each journey is unique, we all share a common theme - cancer changes our lives forever......

The Day That Changed My Life - Breast Cancer the Survivors

Did you know that October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month? Well, if you don't now you know. To find out about the low cost or free screenings are in your area, contact information for local programs is available on the CDC’s Web site or by calling the CDC at 1–800–CDC–INFO (1–800–232–4636). Although we focus on all things cancer, we salute those who have survived and shared their journeys with us. This week we hear from six women who have all been diagnosed with cancer and are now survivors. We use their journey with the hopes of inspiring and encouraging others as they take this familiar path.

While each journey is unique, we all share a common theme - cancer changes our lives forever



Diagnosis



Treatment



Monitoring



Now don't forget to share this with everyone you know. Someone of someone that you know may need to hear this.

The Day That Changed My Life - Dear Sixteen Year Old Me

The Day That Changed My Life focuses on the journey of those whose lives have been touched by cancer. Today we share with you a Public Service Announcement titled Dear Sixteen Year Old Me which features various melanoma survivors who have an important message to share with you. As with all of our posts, we encourage you to share this message with everyone you know. Who knows, someone of someone you know may need to see this.

While each journey is unique, we all share a common theme - cancer changes our lives forever.

The Day That Changed My Life - Why Me?

The questions one asks when they are faced with cancer can vary. There are those who ask why me and there are those who ask why not me? Elanor Mondale lost her battle with brain cancer at the age of 51. Ms. Mondale discusses her life as the daughter of former Vice President Walter Mondale, her career and her return to Minnesota to be with her family. However, on the diagnosis of brain cancer she shares candidly with Josh Skinner - her true feelings about cancer.

While each journey is unique, we all share a common theme cancer changes our lives forever....

The Day That Changed My Life - First Responders of 9/11

As we reflect on the tenth anniversary of 9/11, the memories of that day comes rushing back. I can remember hearing the initial report that a small plane had crashed into the World Trade Center, it was an odd report but things happen and I continued to work. Shortly after, the hustling and bustling intensified as people began to share out loudly that another plane hit the other tower at the World Trade Center. By this time, I realized that something whatever it is - is happening and it wasn't good.

The chaos that ensued after was frightening. The attack on the Pentagon, the towers burning, communication was completely compromised with the cell phones and some land lines not working, rumors spreading throughout the building and more. I wanted to get to my children. I needed to get them and go home where we can all be together to figure out what's going on.

I can tell you that I was in a state of shock for quite a while. The families looking for their loved ones, the volunteers from all over the country who came to help in the rescue and search efforts, the crowds gathering along the West Side and along the side roads to Ground Zero cheering on the first responders as they travel to the site - it was a heart warming yet staggering moment of reality.

The post traumatic stress disorder cases were relatively high. Various agencies offered free counseling services to anyone affected by the attacks. In addition, those who worked closely and daily at Ground Zero were not only affected by the trauma of recovering body parts and having to work in a war torn area, began to develop cancer - including rare forms of cancers. In honor of all who perished and those who worked tirelessly to reclaim the area for the families and our country, we acknowledge the heavy price they have taken on their health.

While each journey is unique, we all share a common theme - cancer changes our lives forever.

Steve Mosielo

The Day That Changed My Life - How I Found Out.. Part III

The Day That Changed My Life focuses on exploring the lives of those who have been touched by cancer. The day that one hears those words in the same context as their health status, is one that they will never forget. The date, time, perhaps the clothes they were wearing and everything else around that time is etched in their memories, even if they just feel numb or it becomes a big blur - they can recall the whole experience. Here you will hear the details of how each account describes a different cancer and how it affected the family, how the treatment affected them and what worked. While each journey is unique, we all share a common theme - cancer changes our lives forever.....

The Day That Changed My Life - How I Found Out.... Part II

To be diagnosed with an aggressive stomach cancer at Stage 4 or to learn that you have a rare form of cancer known as leiomyomas sarcoma has to be overwhelming. Although being diagnosed with breast cancer is still a personally overwhelming shocking life altering experience, there is an incredible fear of the unknown outcomes of rare diagnoses.

However, we have found these journeys of the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance that may bring some hope to others who are facing a rare form of cancer.

While each journey is unique, we all share a common theme - cancer changes our lives forever.







Now be a pal and share this with others, we never know who may need to hear these journeys. It may be just the thing to inspire and bring hope to their lives and you would be a part of it ;-)

The Day That Changed My Life - How I Found Out....

The journey comes after diagnosis. However, there is that moment where one finds out that they have cancer. We will hear these patients from the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance share their journeys. Once diagnosed with cancer, the need to hear from others never gets tired. You want to know you're not alone or at least how did others handle their diagnosis.

While each journey is unique, we all share a common theme - cancer changes our lives forever.







Be sure to share with others, you never know who may need to hear this :-)

The Day That Changed My Life - An Uncertain Journey

Sylvia Des Vries shares her journey with ovarian cancer which metastasized and caused her to experience multiple complications and set backs. After six years in remission, Sylvia was told that not only had the cancer return but her prognosis did not look good at all. Thankfully, her husband took an assertive and determined approach in finding a way to get them through this dreadful transition. After all, they were told that there was nothing more that they could do for Sylvia and with her condition being considered terminal, they gave her an estimate of two months to live. Not so fast, the Des Vries were not about to settle into their diagnosis.

In fact, it was through the research that they found the Issels Treatment Center and the rest is in Sylvia's journey.

While each journey is unique, we all share a common theme - cancer changes our lives forever.

The Day That Changed My Life - Reflections.........

We have received emails regarding the dates of our return to the stage. Although we have not confirmed any dates, we plan to return in 2012 and we will make the announcement here. We appreciate your supportive enthusiasm and we miss you too. In the meantime, we will continue to keep you updated with various journeys. Our hope is that you will find encouragement and inspiration through their journeys.

The Day That Changed My Life made its Off Broadway debut in the fall of 2010 to rave reviews. This unconventional Off Broadway experience takes the audience into the journeys of those whose lives have been touched by cancer.

While each journey is unique, we all share a common theme - cancer changes our lives forever.



Be in the know, subscribe to our blog and join us on FaceBook tell everyone you know all about us :-)

The Day That Changed My Life - Multiple Myeloma

The cancer journey as we all know affects all races, genders, ages - from the rich to the poor. We have seen various high profile celebrities who have lost their battle with cancer and the specific cancer is highlighted and a new awareness seems to be in the spotlight even for a moment.

Lisa Ray, a famous Canadian born Bollywood Actress (a term used for Indian films although the term is formally used in reference to Hindi Cinema)was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma in June 2009. Lisa Ray shares her journey and is now a spokesperson to bring awareness to the cancer that certainly changed her life.

Multiple Myeloma is cancer of the plasma cells a type of white blood cell present in the bone marrow. The plasma cells normally make proteins (antibodies) that helps to fight infections. When a group of abnormal plasma/myeloma cells multiplies, it increases the number of plasma cells to a higher than normal level. As a result, these cells that normally make proteins causes the level of abnormal proteins in the blood to also go up. The complications of this process caused by multiple myeloma affects the bones, immune system, kidneys and red blood cell count.

While each journey is unique, we all share a common theme, cancer changes our lives forever.

The Day That Changed My Life - Making A Difference!

The journey through cancer mostly focuses on the individual's fight to survive. However, their are great efforts to make a difference in research or assisting with the cost of treatments.

The M. D. Anderson Cancer Center Childrens Art Project enhances patient services through nationwide sales of innovative products that make life better for Children with Cancer!



Lift the spirits of others. When you Smell Good for the CAUSE. Solutions Cancer Resource Center, Inc. & Smell Goods '98™ Partnership Project. ~Itiel & The Smell Goods Team



Become a St. Jude Partner in Hope for just $19 each month and help save the lives of children battling cancer and other catastrophic diseases.



Lance Armstrong used his journey to now gain support through his foundation. Nike's commercial about making the LIVESTRONG yellow wristbands shows how it helped unite cancer survivors and their supporters around the world.

The Day That Changed My Life - A Place of Hope

There are many concerns that parents face when they have to consider the new transition of adding cancer to their lives. The questions are endless: Where can my child get the best service? How will we afford this treatment? Thankfully, there is St. Jude a place that offers their services to families regardless of their inability to pay.

As you listen to the journeys, you will find that there is an extraordinary faith, love and hope among the families. St. Jude is a place where hope lives........... Join Us and Show Your Support!



While each journey is unique, we all share a common theme, cancer changes our lives forever... Join Us and Show Your Support!

The Day That Changed My Life - A New Normal

A moment to hear from a survivor who had quite an incredible journey. In 2010, Lindsay Jones was diagnosed with melanoma but she was pregnant. Listen to her journey and how the team approach helped her to survive!

While each journey is unique, we all share a common theme, cancer changes our lives forever...

The Day That Changed My Life - The Survivors Real Journey to Survive

Winning Survivor Africa was just a part of the journey. Ethan Zohn had no idea that he would have to focus on surviving a rare form of Hodgkins Lymphoma CD20 positive. His journey begins with letting go of his signature look, the look that he's most famously recognized with - the full head of curly hair. This journey is quite graphic as you see the real rough patches, the treatment/therapies, the financial aspect, the scars and all.

While each journey is unique, we all share a common theme, cancer changes our lives forever.

The transformation begins....


Hair it goes.......


The Daily Regimen


Sleepless Nights


The Reality Treatment


Can this be me?


Bills, bills, bills.....


Back to Life :-)

The Day That Changed My Life - An Unjazzy Journey

Imagine being a musician learning that you have cancer of the throat and the treatment may cause neuropathy of the finger tips (numbness)and eliminate high frequency hearing. Eric Muhler a Jazz Musician share his journey with throat cancer.

While each journey is unique, we all share a common theme - cancer changes our lives forever.



Don't forget to share with others as it may be just the thing someone may need to hear.

The Day That Changed My Life - The Truth of Tanning

The truth is that tanning can cause melanoma (skin cancer) and for those who are thirty and under increase their risk of skin cancer by 75%. Although tanning salons disagree because they feel it is a controlled environment where you can minimize the amount of time spent tanning, tanning beds have about 99% Ultraviolet Radiation which research experts have found is in no way safe at any level. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the World Health Organization (WHO) warns consumers of tanning salons that exposure to UV Radiation damages the cells in the epidermis.

Listen to the journeys of those who were diagnosed with melanoma followed by an important update from Dermatologist - Dr. Neal Schultz.

Nicole Tamney's journey


Helen Burt's journey


Jenny's journey


Dr. Neal Schultz

The Day That Changed My Life - A Teenagers' Story

In our search to find journeys to inspire and encourage others who may be facing cancer, we found this wonderful piece on Hailey. While many of her peers were living their lives as teenagers do, Hailey found that there was a new life that she had to adjust to a new normal. However, she used her journey to make a difference - a profound one:

Hailey's journey:



Don't forget to pass it on. You never know who may need to see this.

On behalf of The Team, we would like to thank you all for your support. We're also on FaceBook come on and join us there :-)

The Day That Changed My Life - How Do You Cope?

This year the 24th National Cancer Survivors Day was on June 5, 2011. As many gathered to celebrate, there are those who are still facing their journey with uncertainty. Will you survive? How long will it take? How do you cope?
The questions can go on and on. However, cancer survivors love to share their journeys as they want to encourage others to face it and take it head on. Brace yourself, it wont be easy. Listen to the survivors as they share how they coped with their journeys. Each journey is different.........Cancer changes lives forever....

Mark Colter


Martha Anderson


Joyce Gant

The Day That Changed My Life - A Father's Journey

Nick Charles is a well known sportscaster who was also voted as the sexiest sportscaster of America. Mr. Charles has covered major sporting events from the Olympics to boxing. He is now facing the battle of his life. Mr. Charles has bladder cancer and his biggest concern is his five year old daughter Giovanni and his wife Cory.

Nick has accepted that he may not live long enough to be there for major events in Giovanni's life. Here he shares his journey and you'll get a peek of how he plans to be a part of their lives even after he's gone.

The Day That Changed My Life - A Soldiers Journey

In observance of Memorial Day, we take a look at those soldiers whose battle extends beyond the combat zone and into the war with cancer.

The journeys of Staff Sergeant Kyler Kelley and Marine Jose Belliard

Extended: War veteran Jose Belliard: wpri.com

The Day That Changed My Life - Laughter Yoga

Laughter is the best medicine. How about that? Who would think that there would ever be a laughter group for patients in a health care facility? It may sound crazy or weird to some but laughter has taken its place in Integrative Medicine. Laughter Yoga is a form of laughing exercises where a group of people gather and laugh along with deep yogic breathing. According to the Laughter Yoga International Organization, patients have responded positively as it reduces their stress levels, blood pressure and depression.

The journey is definitely uncertain but the options of coping with cancer varies. Who knows, it may be just the medicine that you need.

The Day That Changed My Life - A Cancer Survivor (Times Two)

Although we all know that cancer is no laughing matter, we also know that the disease affects everyone differently. Mack Dryden has found a way to keep survivors and caregivers laughing by sharing his own journey with cancer. Mr. Dryden not only had to fight testicular cancer but also a malignant melanoma which was found at the back of his right eye some years later. The journey began all over again and he manages to bring laughter to others.

Mack Dryden shares his journey through comedy....



To Learn More

Testicular Cancer


Cancer of the Eye

Remember that you do not have to go through this journey alone. Find a local support group in your community or on line.

The Day That Changed My Life - Cancer of the Liver

The liver is the organ that makes protein which is important for clotting along with other functions. It filters the blood from the digestive tract before it moves on to the rest of the body. In addition, it metabolizes drugs and detoxifies chemicals.

Hepatocellular carcinoma is the most common type of liver cancer almost always occurs after cirrhosis is present.

As always, our goal is to share the journey of those who have been diagnosed with cancer as it may offer an important key for survival - hope

Jose Batto shares in great detail the uncertainty and setbacks of his journey:

The Day That Changed My Life - Retinoblastoma

Retinoblastoma is a cancerous tumor of the eye. Many people are unaware of the disease as most cancers are at the forefront in terms of raising awareness to fight the disease.

In honor of Retinoblastoma Awareness week, we focus on this rare cancer that affects the retina and is commonly diagnosed in children by ages 1-2. In the Off Broadway Play, The Day That Changed My Life shared the journey of parents whose child was diagnosed with Retinoblastoma. We will be focusing on the disease in depth as we want to be a part of bringing awareness to the disease. Although it is a rare form of cancer, for the parent whose child has the disease, it becomes an added challenge that at times can be painful to think of the child's future and what lies ahead.

Learn more about Retinoblastoma

Here's Gracie's Journey:

The Day That Changed My Life - Esophageal Cancer

Esophageal Cancer is a cancer of the esophagus. The esophagus is the muscular tube that moves the food from the mouth to the stomach. While the main goal is to remove the cancer through surgery, some treatments includes chemotherapy, radiation or a combination of both.

Keep in mind each journey is different and these features are not endorsements of any medical facility, physician or course of treatment. Our best effort is to give you hope as you listen to those who have faced the disease and survived:


Bart Frazzitta



Nick Koulouvaris shares his incredible journey:



Ken Papini

The Day That Changed My Life - Pancreatic Cancer

Pancreatic Cancer is found in the pancreas that may often grow without any initial symptoms. This may indicate that the pancreatic cancer is more advanced once it is diagnosed. Most people fear the disease as it seen as a terminal illness. However, there are those who have had to walk through the journey of pancreatic cancer and they are the voices of hope.

Hear the voices of those who dare to share their journeys with us. They certainly cover many issues:

The Day That Changed My Life - The Real Deal

Early detection is very important - get screened. No family history? Get screened.

Check out Coralee's Journey:





In the final video, you may need to sign in to YouTube to view as Coralee shares the reality of her mastectomy.

The Day That Changed My Life - Colon Cancer

Colon and rectal cancer is known collectively as colorectal cancer. In many cases, it begins with a small polyp in the colon. Colorectal cancer may be caused by high fat diets as well as low fiber intake. The recommendation for those who have no identified risk factors (other than age) should begin regular screening at age 50. However, if you who have a family history or other risk factors for colorectal polyps or cancer, you should talk with your health care practitioner on screening at a younger age as well as getting screened more frequently. Furthermore research studies show that there is a specific population who may have an increased risk of having colorectal cancer:

• Women who have a history of ovarian cancer
• If one was diagnosed with Uterine cancer
• Breast cancer patients or survivors
• Reoccurrence of colorectal cancer may develop a second time
• Ulcerative colitis
• Crohn’s disease
• Diabetics have a 30 – 40% chance to develop colorectal cancer

Alissa Murphy was diagnosed with colorectal cancer at the age of 36. The diagnosis came as a surprise to her as there were no warning signs. Listen to her journey...

The Day That Changed My Life - Depression

The truth is receiving a cancer diagnosis can be quite depressing. It is the initial phase that many people go through. Well, it is really about the uncertainty of the outcome. While some people find that they can get pass the depression and focus on getting better, there are those who are overwhelmed with fear. Listen to Dr. Michelle Riva Director of the PsychOncology program at the University of Michigan Health System and patient Bill Howe discuss depression - his journey:



Mental health is a major part of dealing with any illness. If you or someone you love has is going through a state of depression, we encourage you to seek counseling with a support group, discuss with your oncologist, speak to the social worker, your religious leader or call a cancer support line. Do not try to face it alone, there is nothing wrong with reaching out for help.

National Cancer Institute offers assistance to locate the support services within your area. You may contact through a live online chat session or you may call them at 1-800-4-CANCER 1-800(422-6237).

CancerCare offers online, telephone and face-to-face support groups that connect you with other people who are in a similar situation. To learn more about support groups, please call at 1-800-813-4673 or email info@cancercare.org.

The Day That Changed My Life - Faith

This week while doing my research on Faith and Cancer, I found an interesting article regarding a young pastor who is the leader of a mega-church in Flower Mound, Texas. What I found most fascinating was his approach to the diagnosis. It all began on Thanksgiving morning 2009, a day where families unite and share a day of giving thanks for all of their blessings. It was a normal morning for Matt Chandler. He woke up, got a cup of coffee, fed his six month old baby, burped her, placed her in the bouncy seat - then everything after that went blank. He had a violent seizure and was rushed to the hospital where he was diagnosed with Anaplastic oligodendroglioma, a malignant brain tumor.

Have you ever wondered how a pastor would handle being diagnosed with cancer? Would he still have the same strong convictions of his faith in the word and the God that he serves? Here you will see a few videos that will expose you to his journey. Will there be biblical references? Yes of course, but even more so he is open and clear with his journey. Let's follow this journey:







End of Year Report!


The journey is never easy. Each person has their own way of traveling through this rough path. Some rely on faith, some share their love for life while others may reach into their fierce spirit of fighting to survive to sustain them. If you or someone you know would love to share your journey with us please feel free to send it to info@thedaythatchangedmylife.org

The Day That Changed My Life - Hope

A tough road ahead with high levels of uncertainty - comes with lung cancer. Lung cancer is one of the most common cancers in the world, an estimated 174,000 Americans are diagnosed each year. In fact, it is a leading cause of cancer death in men and women in the United States. It starts when abnormal cells grow out of control in the lungs. Smoking is often associated with lung cancer, but that is not always the case. In addition,it is quite difficult to detect since there usually are no signs or early symptoms. However, when they do appear, the symptoms include coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and bloody mucus but at this point the lung cancer stage has advanced. Treatment for lung cancer can include surgery, chemotherapy, and /or radiation.

Listen to survivor, speaker, author of Help Me Live: 20 things people with cancer want you to know - Lori Hope



We haven't said it in a while but here goes Thank you all, we're growing with readers from around the world :-) We're so thrilled to have your support. Keep sharing the blog. Feel free to share your comments.

The Day That Changed My Life - Cancer & Pregnancy

The excitement of having a baby comes with it's own share of anxieties, hoping for a smooth pregnancy, safe delivery and a healthy baby. So the last thing anyone expects to hear is "you also have cancer." Each journey shared is different with ages/stages of life, yet the common theme shared is that there is still hope.

Crying, crazy thoughts, decisions, crippling fears, overwhelmed, depressed, uncertainty and so much more........ Normal emotions.

Anya Silver was diagnosed with inflammatory breast cancer, an uncommon and particularly aggressive type of cancer. According to the National Cancer Institute, inflammatory breast cancer accounts for 1 to 5 percent of all breast cancer cases in the United States. It tends to be diagnosed in younger women compared to non-IBC breast cancer. It occurs more frequently and at a younger age in African Americans than in Whites. Like other types of breast cancer, IBC can occur in men, but usually at an older age than in women. The symptoms include, redness, swelling, and warmth in the breast, often without a distinct lump in the breast. The redness and warmth are caused by cancer cells blocking the lymph vessels in the skin. The skin of the breast may also appear pink, reddish purple, or bruised.

Listen to Anya's journey:



Here's forty something year old Joan Dymand-Hintz's journey:



Lisa Peterson Bender & Ryan Bender share how the diagnosis affected their lives - their journey:

We're praying for a safe delivery for the Benders whose due date is on March 17th!!!

The Day That Changed My Life - Sex after Cancer

So many other things to think about during the most difficult transition of your life. First, you're just trying to make it through this, you just want to survive. Many relationships suffer due to the uncertainty of the outcome of this period. Mood swings, depression, the daily regimen, etc., may even cause a couple to breakup.

However, perhaps after completing the treatments, the thought of resuming things you enjoyed before the diagnosis comes to your mind. Depending on the kind of cancer, you may have lost your hair, breast/s, etc., and furthermore, you're not fully adjusted to the new changes. This is the time to go at your own pace. You may even need to go for counseling or attend a support group.

One things for sure, you are not alone - listen to their journeys:


A Fun Couple - The Alterowitz's


Medical Expert - Dr. Jacques Moritz

The Day That Changed My Life - 10 Tips for Survivors

Kris Carr survivor and author offers some really great tips to assist you through your cancer journey. Ms. Carr has not taken her journey lightly but instead she took charge of her cancer diagnosis which is a rare tumor Epithelioid hemangioendothelioma (EHE). While it can be found in any tissue, it is most often found in the lung and liver.

What's even more incredible, Ms. Carr shared her journey in a documentary Crazy Sexy Cancer which she directed, starred and was shown on The Learning Channel (TLC). She is also a New York Times best seller whose books Crazy Sexy Cancer Tips, Crazy Sexy Cancer Survivor and most recently Crazy Sexy Diet.

In this video, a radiant Kris Carr shares insightful tips that worked for her and may just be right for you:



There is so much more to learn about Ms. Carr and her journey She is truly inspirational!

The Day That Changed My Life - What the Fuss?

So are we on to a hot topic or what? I'd say we're scorching. The controversy of our previous post has picked up with the recent coverage on Dateline exploring Suzanne Somers claims of what worked for her through her journey with cancer. We're following this topic closely. Watch these experts as they share from their professional perspective:

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Each journey is different but the common theme shared is that cancer changes our lives forever.
The Day That Changed My Life - The Controversy

Dawn

The Day That Changed My Life - Ovarian Cancer

Consider this.......

When someone is diagnosed with cancer there are some things that they immediately think of:
*Survival
*Family
*Relationships (spouse,Fiancée,boyfriend,partner,girlfriend)
*Friendships
*Lifestyle (health, hair, career/work, social)

Elana Waldman is facing ovarian cancer - again. Ovarian cancer begins in the ovaries and is difficult to detect/diagnose as the symptoms are linked to other non life threatening health related illnesses:

*Abnormal menstrual cycle
*Bloating
*Constipation
*Indigestion
*No appetite
*Nausea or vomiting
*Increased gas
*Heaviness in Pelvic area
*Swollen abdomen or belly
*Vaginal bleeding
*Discomfort in abdominal area
*Weight gain or weight loss
*Pain in the back that appears without reason while pain increases
*Increased/Urgent need to urinate
*Excessive hair growth
*Feeling full quickly
*Difficulty eating

If you experience any of these symptoms for more than a few weeks, put your doctor on alert. Let your concerns be heard early detection may save your life. In most cases, by the time ovarian cancer is diagnosed, it may be very difficult to treat successfully. How can you make a difference? Take a moment...

The Day That Changed My Life - The Controversy

Here's a controversial discussion. Not everyone subscribes to the standard treatment of chemotherapy or radiation which is given to cancer patients. Suzanne Somers known as Chrissy on Three's Company, later as an author and business woman shares her perspective on what worked for her. Ms. Somers decided to take an unconventional approach in treating her cancer. An excerpt from her book Knock Out:


Chapter 1
A CANCER STORY—MINE

November 2008, 4:00 a.m. I wake up. I can’t breathe. I am choking, being
strangled to death; it feels like there are two hands around my neck
squeezing tighter and tighter. My body is covered head to toe with welts
and a horrible rash: the itching and burning is unbearable. The rash is in
my ears, in my nose, in my vagina, on the bottoms of my feet, everywhere—
under my arms, my scalp, the back of my neck. Every single inch
of my body is covered with welts except my face. I don’t know why. I
struggle to the telephone and call one of the doctors I trust. I start to tell
him what is happening, and he stops me: “You are in danger. Go to the hospital
right now.” I knew it. I could feel that my breath was running out.

No time to wait for an ambulance. We race to the emergency room. I
am gasping, begging for yet one more breath. I am suffocating. I am running
out of time. I don’t have time to think or be frightened; I can only
concentrate on getting one last breath. I am dizzy . . . the world is spinning.
Breathing is all I can think about.

We arrive. My husband has called the hospital in advance. They are
waiting for me. The emergency room workers—nurses, doctors, and other
professionals—are wonderful people. They have dealt with this before.
They are reassuring: “Okay, we’ll take care of her.”

As soon as I am in the emergency room they inject me with Decadron, a
powerful steroid. “Why can’t you breathe?” the ER doc seems to be
yelling in my ear, but I can’t answer. I am unable to get words out. They
inject me with Benadryl for the welts and the rash. Now I’m inside the
ER, but I still can’t breathe. I can’t even sit up. I am bent over trying to
find oxygen anywhere . . .

They put me on oxygen and albuterol to get me breathing, and slowly,
slowly, life returns. I am still grabbing for each breath, and there
are spasms in my lungs, like someone is turning a knob that pulls my
lungs inside out, but unlike before, the breath is there . . . labored but
there.

“We have to do a CAT scan,” he says. I already know that there are
large amounts of radiation inherent in CAT scans, and it bothers me to
think of doing that to my body. This is the first time I have had any pharmaceutical
drugs in me in eight years.

I always say, “I am not anti-pharmaceutical, but they should be saved as
the last tool in the practitioner’s back pocket.” My life was just saved by
pharmaceuticals. Maybe this is one of those times that radiation is justified
to find out what is wrong? Because something is seriously wrong. I
am healthy. I don’t know anyone who does more for her health than I do
on a daily basis. CAT scan . . . I don’t know.


I say to the doctor, “It seems to me that I’ve either been poisoned or am
having some kind of serious allergic reaction to something. I mean,
doesn’t that make sense? The rash, the strangling, the asphyxiation.
Sounds classic, doesn’t it?”

“We don’t know. A CAT scan will tell us. I really recommend you do
this,” the doctor says. “Next time you might not be so lucky—you might
not get here in time. You were almost out.”

I know that. I could feel the life going out of me in the car ride over.

“Okay,” I answer meekly. I am concerned and wary. My husband is with
me, holding my hands, rubbing them. His face is twisted with fear, concern.
Nothing is making sense.

A week ago, I was the picture of health. I hosted a beautiful evening at
my home for all the wonderful doctors who had participated in my bestseller
Breakthrough. It was a beautiful, warm evening, and together we all
celebrated health and wellness. The stars were out that night in full force,
and while the air was filled with the sounds of live musicians playing my
soft jazz favorites, the forty people at the table were enthusiastically conversing
about the possibilities of aging without illness; aging with bones,
brain, and health intact; dying healthy at a very old age. We were all
turned on. We had all realized it was attainable, and we were excited to
know that we had jumped on this incredible bandwagon in time.

This was an amazing group of people. These doctors were the courageous
ones who stepped out of the Western “standard of care” box to declare
that the present template of medicine is not working. Drugs are not
the answer. Drugs and chemicals are degrading the brains of our elders
and sneaking up on the unsuspecting young ones.

The Day That Changed My Life - The Age Factor

In sharing more journeys of survivors, we found Stephanie LaRue's heart warming story. Ms. LaRue discusses how her age played a role in dismissing the reality of her diagnosis which our director would declare "critical." Her journey shows how she became the spokesperson for young women through her advocacy and sharing her journey with everyone all the way to Washington reaching out to congress.
Her journey reminds us to be vigilant - follow through when your body sends you signals.

The Day That Changed My Life - The Unusual Diagnosis

If you were one of the fortunate ones to see the Off Broadway production of The Day That Changed My Life, you will recognize the journey of the parent whose child was diagnosed with cancer and the concerns that comes with it. Here we found a story that covers the journey of three year old Aleisha Hunter who was diagnosed with breast cancer, you can imagine this diagnosis did not come easy.

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The Day That Changed My Life - His Journey

The Day That Changed My Life is an exploration into the lives of those who have been touched by cancer. While millions face cancer privately, every now and then we learn of a famous person which unites us to face the disease in a public and hopeful way. We were all moved by the news of actor Michael Douglas's diagnosis of throat cancer. What was even more frightening was the term used, stage IV which in most cancer cases generally means - the end is near. However, Mr. Douglas vowed to give it his best shot to beat the disease and we privately prayed and cheered him on. In this interview, the Oscar winner shares his journey:

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We remain optimistic and prayerful for Mr. Douglas as his journey continues..........

Happy New Year!

Here's wishing you an incredible year!

We're just as excited as everyone about 2011 and all of the opportunities that are in store for us! We will keep you informed - in the meantime, reach for your dreams. We did and you're a major part of it!

Happy New Year!!!


The Team