Affirmation and positive thoughts

Hi Jan - I will pray for you that you will get positive results from trying this chemo again.  There are many who believe in the power of prayer.  I have a small intestinal stricture - a scarred area caused by pelvic radiation yrs ago -  the blockages cause very painful spasms that can last hours.  When I was diagnosed, the nurse gave me a "low residue diet" - a list of foods that are easily digested and do not cause bulking in the intestine - limited fiber, no nuts, seeds, grains, fresh vegetables, lettuce, potato skins, etc.  The list includes foods that are easy to digest and those not easily digested, such as the ones I just mentioned.  Websites on the internet have lists of low residue foods and those that you should avoid. They are not necessarily foods that are particularly good for you, but ones that go through your system easily.  I wonder if this "diet" might help to prevent any blockages.  I have still had blockages, but I do follow this diet pretty strictly, and believe that it has limited blockages or made them less severe.  Are you familiar with this "low residue diet"?  Again, sending you all the best.

I know how you feel Jan. In my short experience with cancer I have found that doctors really don't know a whole lot. Hopefully there isn't a mass. You are always in my prayers.

Jan, I drink Pro Performance Weight Gainer from GNC store when I can't eat the things I used to eat. This drink has 50grams protein which our body needs for energy. I mix it with banana, peanut butter and milk in a blender. I chose the chocolate flavor. Taste real good!! My oncologist said it's a good supplemental for me. They have Vanilla and also Strawberry flavors as well. Hope you'll find this helpful. God bless us all

Eisset

hi-  I've been lurking on these boards for  the past month or so, as I wrap my head around a diagnosis of stage 4 colon cancer w mets to liver.  I have to say,when I was  lying in the hospital for 10+ days, I found these boards To be scary, informational, but most importantly, supportive and  hopeful.  Jan, I would look forward to reading your posts when I couldn't sleep at night.  Your honesty, kindness and attitude throughout your ups and downs has been remarkable.  Hang tough and don't give in. This newbie from Boston is rooting for you, and everyone else here! 

ps-I like your new picture too!!

JanJan63 said:

Thank you both. I woke up at

Thank you both. I woke up at 4 am and couldn't stop thinking about it. The things I need to do before I'm gone to make it easier for my family, the things I want to do- my bucket list- which is now very much shorter than it was because of my health, the dreams I must give up, who I need to reach out to that I haven't seen for a while, what will happen to my horse and dogs, all of that stuff. It's hard to turn your brain off at times like that.

I'm so sad but not really crying much. I knew this was the worst case scenario so I'd already kind of accepted that it could happen despite my attempts at beng positive. And I could switch chemos and still be okay longer than they think. It's possible. I'm hoping it happens. I hate seeing my hisband crying and upset and knowing it's because of me. I didn't tell my daughter. They said at this point they'd only use radiation for palliative comfort if I need it. I told her that they don't want to do more damage for now and would rather I tried the other chemo. I've never lied to her but hse doesn't need the burden.

Damn, this really sucks. I pray that the new chemo will at least hold it at bay for some time. Maybe I can get five years out of this. Last fall I was told ten and I was upset. Now I'd be thrilled to get ten more years. 

I hate that early morning wake-up, where your brain is fully engaged in trying to deal with worst-case-scenarios and things you can't do a thing about at 3-4 in the morning! I'm sorry Jan, that recent tests have put you in such mental/emotional turmoil, it really is the worst part of this disease, in my mind. Sending you peaceful, easy thoughts.............................................Dave

Jan, I truly believe the positive attitude is the complementary medicine for this awful disease. And some laughter too. when they first told me finding the malignant tumor in my colon and they said it doesn't look good. I was so shocked and I was already planning my own funeral in my head. My older daughter was sitting next to me. She said mommy we're going to fight this and get rid of this nonsense inside of you. Right away I felt my strength build up and my positive attitude changed my whole outlook. When you're feeling down, think of the people you love and your Prince. You can truly draw strength from your loved ones. I applaud you for fighting so strong with courage. Even though I just joined this site not long ago but I find this as my extended family. We're all here for you! {{{HUGS}}}