Never Morn The Death Of A Person That's Alive! And Until You Die LIVE!
Reverend Tammie Denyse
Loved what Reverend Tammie Denyse said! So many people acted as if I had died when they heard my diagnosis. I think that's why so many people hide that they have cancer. We Want To Live, and To Live Joyfully!
A conversation with an eight year old.
The other day my son's friend was over for a play date and we had the following conversation:
The boys were working on a flag of California while I was doing dishes. My son's friend looked up at me and made this statement, "I feel really sorry for you because you have cancer, and you are going to die."
Well what do you say to that? I looked at him for a moment and then replied "Everyone dies, and we never know when it will happen."
"Yes," he said, "But I feel sorry for you because you have cancer and your going to die, and you haven't even lived a full life yet!"
About this time my nine year old spoke up--I'll never forget the stricken look on his face. I wished I could wipe that look out of his eyes. He tried to reassure his friend and himself, I think, by saying "She's taking a new medicine now and she's doing better." (That would be Protandim.)
I took over then and told him about two of my friends who have lost their husbands in tragic car accidents and again explained to him "Everyone dies sometime and no one, not even me, knows when it will be or what will be the cause of our death." I then asked him "What would you do if you knew you were going to die?"
He explained "I would tell my family and friends that I love them and I would travel and go places I want to go and do the things I want to do before I die."
"Well," I said "That is what we all should be doing right now, everyday of our life; we should let everyone know we love them, plan and do the things we want to do because we don't know what will happen tomorrow!"
Then he huffed out a breath and said "How do I get into these conversations with you!"
And I said "Because you told me you felt sorry for me, because I had cancer and was going to die." We let it go at that, and the boys went outside to play.
It seems that the eight year olds are the ones that dare to have these types of conversations with me, but I think some older people think these things and keep it to themselves.
So I say to you:
If you are morning my death or some other "living soul"--get over it! I'm not dead yet! Don't you dare feel sorry for me! Let me live until I die! And trust me, when it comes my time to die (and hopefully, it will be a long time in coming) I will have lived MY full life. The life that I have will be what I make it! And I am grateful that it includes you! So until I die I plan on living! You are welcome to share the joy of this life with me but not my death, as it has not occurred yet! I have faith that it will not happen until the Lord sees fit to call me home, and not a minuet sooner--so I will keep plugging along and being grateful for all that I have, all those that I love, and for each beautiful day.
A conversation with an eight year old.
The other day my son's friend was over for a play date and we had the following conversation:
The boys were working on a flag of California while I was doing dishes. My son's friend looked up at me and made this statement, "I feel really sorry for you because you have cancer, and you are going to die."
Well what do you say to that? I looked at him for a moment and then replied "Everyone dies, and we never know when it will happen."
"Yes," he said, "But I feel sorry for you because you have cancer and your going to die, and you haven't even lived a full life yet!"
About this time my nine year old spoke up--I'll never forget the stricken look on his face. I wished I could wipe that look out of his eyes. He tried to reassure his friend and himself, I think, by saying "She's taking a new medicine now and she's doing better." (That would be Protandim.)
I took over then and told him about two of my friends who have lost their husbands in tragic car accidents and again explained to him "Everyone dies sometime and no one, not even me, knows when it will be or what will be the cause of our death." I then asked him "What would you do if you knew you were going to die?"
He explained "I would tell my family and friends that I love them and I would travel and go places I want to go and do the things I want to do before I die."
"Well," I said "That is what we all should be doing right now, everyday of our life; we should let everyone know we love them, plan and do the things we want to do because we don't know what will happen tomorrow!"
Then he huffed out a breath and said "How do I get into these conversations with you!"
And I said "Because you told me you felt sorry for me, because I had cancer and was going to die." We let it go at that, and the boys went outside to play.
It seems that the eight year olds are the ones that dare to have these types of conversations with me, but I think some older people think these things and keep it to themselves.
So I say to you:
If you are morning my death or some other "living soul"--get over it! I'm not dead yet! Don't you dare feel sorry for me! Let me live until I die! And trust me, when it comes my time to die (and hopefully, it will be a long time in coming) I will have lived MY full life. The life that I have will be what I make it! And I am grateful that it includes you! So until I die I plan on living! You are welcome to share the joy of this life with me but not my death, as it has not occurred yet! I have faith that it will not happen until the Lord sees fit to call me home, and not a minuet sooner--so I will keep plugging along and being grateful for all that I have, all those that I love, and for each beautiful day.
So let me share with you some good news on the technology front.
Wow! A Thermogram Bra!
My sister shared this with me, and I just couldn't wait to share it with you!
Thermogram bra? This Smart Bra will be available in Europe next year and hopefully in the US sometime in 2014 pending FDA approval The Bra has been shown to have an 92.1 level of accuracy in determining tumors and around 5 years earlier than a mammogram. Mammograms are only about 70% accurate. The Bra uses thermal technology to assess changes in the breast tissue, and it relays the information back to software that a doctor would have. It is the creation of Fist Warning Systems out of Reno, Nevada.
This is a link to an article about a 45 year old women who was part of a clinical trial. She had no signs of breast cancer but the bra showed otherwise. She is now a cancer survivor and an advocate of The Smart Bra. Click on this link to read Lindsay's Story
“The First Warning System is capable not only identifying breast tissue abnormalities at their earliest stages, but can also identify the general location of such abnormalities in three dimensions to each of the four quadrants of each breast,” said a release by Lifeline Biotechnologies, a medical technology company licensing the bra.
Read more: http://latino.foxnews.com/latino/health/2012/10/18/first-warning-systems-bra-detects-breast-cancer/#ixzz2BZfZpRe4
My sister shared this with me, and I just couldn't wait to share it with you!
Thermogram bra? This Smart Bra will be available in Europe next year and hopefully in the US sometime in 2014 pending FDA approval The Bra has been shown to have an 92.1 level of accuracy in determining tumors and around 5 years earlier than a mammogram. Mammograms are only about 70% accurate. The Bra uses thermal technology to assess changes in the breast tissue, and it relays the information back to software that a doctor would have. It is the creation of Fist Warning Systems out of Reno, Nevada.
This is a link to an article about a 45 year old women who was part of a clinical trial. She had no signs of breast cancer but the bra showed otherwise. She is now a cancer survivor and an advocate of The Smart Bra. Click on this link to read Lindsay's Story
“The First Warning System is capable not only identifying breast tissue abnormalities at their earliest stages, but can also identify the general location of such abnormalities in three dimensions to each of the four quadrants of each breast,” said a release by Lifeline Biotechnologies, a medical technology company licensing the bra.
“It is, therefore, not intended as an additional step in the breast cancer screening process, but as an accurate identifier of early breast abnormalities which generate heat via the presence of new blood vessels that nourish the area in question.”
Read more: http://latino.foxnews.com/latino/health/2012/10/18/first-warning-systems-bra-detects-breast-cancer/#ixzz2BZfZpRe4
For any of you trying to get through the holidays fit and healthy, this is for you!
2) Drink lots of water when you are at a party. It will help keep you feeling full and you will be less likely to eat or drink something you will regret.
3) Take something yummy that you can eat, just in case you get tempted or start to feel deprived--a good tip for people on diets and that have food allergies.
4) This year, choose to take care of yourself first every morning. Then you will be better prepared to share and have more energy to put toward generosity and good cheer.
5) Don't wait to do that little something extra for yourself, like taking yoga or zumba classes, a hike with friends or anything else you would like to do to rejuvenate your self. We don't have to wait for the New Year to give to ourself.
6) Just Say No! You don't have to do everything or go to every party! You don't have to make the most exotic gifts or treats! After all, there must be a grocery store or bakery down the street. The most important part of thanksgiving is to be thankful! The most important part of Christmas is the redemption! And if you are not Christian, then I'm sure Hanukkah, Kwanzaa or whatever holiday you celebrate doesn't require you to give up your health and sanity. Just say yes to what is reasonable for you. Everyone will understand and if they don't, they are too taxing for you to be around anyway.
7) Make sure you have joyful time with family and friends If it's stressful, make your excuses and go home, make some warm herbal tea or hot coco, relax by a fire, read a good book or take a nap!
Food Is Part Of The Season!
I thought I would share a few fun and healthy recipes. Here's to a healthy, joyful and yummy holiday!
Fudge Balls (Living on Live Food by Alissa Cohen)
2 cups Dates pitted and soaked (dates have a high natural sugar content so you can substitute stevia or xylitol if you want it lower in sugar)
2 cups almond butter
1/2 cup carob powder (If you don't like the taste of carob use coco powder but you will get caffeine)
1) in a food processor, blend the dates to a smooth past
2) Add the remaining ingredients and process until smooth
3)Remove from processor and form into round balls.
They will keep for a long time in the refrigerator. (They are great when you have a sweet craving)
Guilt Free Sorbet (my own recipe)
Three to four cups frozen organic fruit of your choice (I get the frozen organic at Costco)
2 cups coconut milk ( you could use rice but coconut is richer)
1/2 cup xylitol
5 droppers of Stevia extract ( I like NOW brand the best, it has no bitter aftertaste you could also use fresh leaves if you grow it)
Put all ingredients in a Vita-mix or similar appliance, mix until smooth and enjoy!
Here are some more fun and healthy recipe links!
Quinoa and Pistachio stuffed acorn squash recipe
Kale and Butternut Squash Salad Recipe
Healthy Recipes For Thanksgiving This site includes, A Butternut Root Vegetable Soup and a Criminal Chocolate Mouse Tart, YUM!
Pumpkin Spice Granola Not only for breakfast but a fun item to carry around and munch on. I would use raw unfiltered local honey over agave. It's just plain better for you. You could also come up with something else. I'd love to hear your tips and recipes.
Crazy Sexy Thanksgiving Kris Carr, who is a cancer thriver and has a radio show and is the author the New York Times best seller Crazy Sexy Kitchen, cookbook gives us some great recipes for
thanksgiving dinner at this link.
Pumpkin Banana Spice Smoothie Recipe. How about this for breakfast.
My Test results
I am currently undergoing test to see where my cancer is at. I have had two MRIs on my upper and lower back. They came back with mixed results. So let's start with the bad news; there are more cancer lesions on my back. The good news is that my original lesions have gotten smaller and there are no bone fractures or tumors in the tissue. I have another MRI scheduled at the end of the month, and then of course there will be a consult with my doctor. I can report to you that I am feeling fine and have lots to celebrate this season of Thanksgiving.
Cancer-Free Day!
Holiday Tips
1) Always go to a party full, that way you will not be as tempted to eat the things that are harmful to you. This works for those on a diet as well.2) Drink lots of water when you are at a party. It will help keep you feeling full and you will be less likely to eat or drink something you will regret.
3) Take something yummy that you can eat, just in case you get tempted or start to feel deprived--a good tip for people on diets and that have food allergies.
4) This year, choose to take care of yourself first every morning. Then you will be better prepared to share and have more energy to put toward generosity and good cheer.
5) Don't wait to do that little something extra for yourself, like taking yoga or zumba classes, a hike with friends or anything else you would like to do to rejuvenate your self. We don't have to wait for the New Year to give to ourself.
6) Just Say No! You don't have to do everything or go to every party! You don't have to make the most exotic gifts or treats! After all, there must be a grocery store or bakery down the street. The most important part of thanksgiving is to be thankful! The most important part of Christmas is the redemption! And if you are not Christian, then I'm sure Hanukkah, Kwanzaa or whatever holiday you celebrate doesn't require you to give up your health and sanity. Just say yes to what is reasonable for you. Everyone will understand and if they don't, they are too taxing for you to be around anyway.
7) Make sure you have joyful time with family and friends If it's stressful, make your excuses and go home, make some warm herbal tea or hot coco, relax by a fire, read a good book or take a nap!
Food Is Part Of The Season!
I thought I would share a few fun and healthy recipes. Here's to a healthy, joyful and yummy holiday!
Fudge Balls (Living on Live Food by Alissa Cohen)
2 cups Dates pitted and soaked (dates have a high natural sugar content so you can substitute stevia or xylitol if you want it lower in sugar)
2 cups almond butter
1/2 cup carob powder (If you don't like the taste of carob use coco powder but you will get caffeine)
1) in a food processor, blend the dates to a smooth past
2) Add the remaining ingredients and process until smooth
3)Remove from processor and form into round balls.
They will keep for a long time in the refrigerator. (They are great when you have a sweet craving)
Guilt Free Sorbet (my own recipe)
Three to four cups frozen organic fruit of your choice (I get the frozen organic at Costco)
2 cups coconut milk ( you could use rice but coconut is richer)
1/2 cup xylitol
5 droppers of Stevia extract ( I like NOW brand the best, it has no bitter aftertaste you could also use fresh leaves if you grow it)
Put all ingredients in a Vita-mix or similar appliance, mix until smooth and enjoy!
Here are some more fun and healthy recipe links!
Quinoa and Pistachio stuffed acorn squash recipe
Kale and Butternut Squash Salad Recipe
Healthy Recipes For Thanksgiving This site includes, A Butternut Root Vegetable Soup and a Criminal Chocolate Mouse Tart, YUM!
Pumpkin Spice Granola Not only for breakfast but a fun item to carry around and munch on. I would use raw unfiltered local honey over agave. It's just plain better for you. You could also come up with something else. I'd love to hear your tips and recipes.
Crazy Sexy Thanksgiving Kris Carr, who is a cancer thriver and has a radio show and is the author the New York Times best seller Crazy Sexy Kitchen, cookbook gives us some great recipes for
thanksgiving dinner at this link.
Pumpkin Banana Spice Smoothie Recipe. How about this for breakfast.
My Test results
I am currently undergoing test to see where my cancer is at. I have had two MRIs on my upper and lower back. They came back with mixed results. So let's start with the bad news; there are more cancer lesions on my back. The good news is that my original lesions have gotten smaller and there are no bone fractures or tumors in the tissue. I have another MRI scheduled at the end of the month, and then of course there will be a consult with my doctor. I can report to you that I am feeling fine and have lots to celebrate this season of Thanksgiving.
Cancer-Free Day!
I find my self thinking, wouldn't it be nice to be cancer free for one day--a day when you don't have to think about what you do or eat, when no one asks you about your illness, no one gives you "that look"? You know the one that I mean. Sometimes it feels like I would have to run away and hide in a cave if I want to do that. Well, I think if I work hard on my health this month and next I can have two "Cancer-Free Days!"
I now declare "Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day, Cancer Free Days!" That means if you even mention cancer to me on those days, I will just look blankly at you and walk away. If you call and mention cancer, you will suddenly wonder if you lost the connection But better yet, don't mention it. Deep inside I will know I have cancer but I will still have a piece of pumpkin pie and not feel the least bit guilty! I will also prepare some delicious healthy dishes so good, no one, not even me, will know I'm not indulging myself!
I now declare "Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day, Cancer Free Days!" That means if you even mention cancer to me on those days, I will just look blankly at you and walk away. If you call and mention cancer, you will suddenly wonder if you lost the connection But better yet, don't mention it. Deep inside I will know I have cancer but I will still have a piece of pumpkin pie and not feel the least bit guilty! I will also prepare some delicious healthy dishes so good, no one, not even me, will know I'm not indulging myself!
Awesome attitude. Enjoy the Holidays and EVERYDAY!
ReplyDeleteLove you Jean :)
I love you, and I love Cancer Free Days!! Edith ;)
ReplyDelete