Well unfortunately I received the news this week that the reason my legs were tingly is because of an issue with my spinal cord and a tumor in my neck that's pinching on my nerves. So this is not the outcome I was hoping for but it explains the issues with my legs and I started immediate radiation to shrink it down so that I'm not paralyzed in a couple weeks! Unfortunately I received the news this week that the reason my legs were tingly is because of an issue with my spinal cord and a tumor in my neck that's pinching on my nerves. So this is not the outcome I was hoping for but it explains the issues with my legs and I started immediate radiation to shrink it down so that I'm not paralyzed in a couple weeks. It really was something I needed to do immediately to keep my quality of life the way it need to be right now :-) Although it sounds scary I have heard from other neurologists that they have seen this type of thing completely disappear just with radiation really was something I needed to do immediately...the alternative is worse. It sounds scary but I have to hope for the best! I've got an amazing group of support and my husband has been is juicing and giving me all the nutrients, healthy fats, protein and vegetables. He made a garlic and onion soup with chicken bone broth...so sweet to see and know how much I am loved! I am still blessed by amazing friends who have been here around the clock to assist in so many ways.
One of the side effects from the steroid they give to keep spinal cord and/or brain from swelling due to radiation makes my muscles very weak and hard to walk or get up from a chair! So this is the hardest part for me now, seeing how weak I am after just a month ago being able to workout at the gym! My doctor says its temporary and he has seen a complete remission from the radiation which gives me hope. A friend who does nerve/muscle PT came over today to give me nervous system and muscle exercises.
However, I do not think I want to continue tearing down my immune system with chemo, so I will likely go in a completely opposite direction and choose aggressive treatments available that only kill cancer cells, first aptosis (cell death and new growth of healthy cells) to support a chance for a curable outcome.
You know I feel the system is so broken on the ways we treat cancer in this country and even all the integrative supplements although they helped with side effects, you can only dump poison in for so long...2 years is my max. I had only wanted immunotherapy but never could get it. Maybe a trial will be available. My plans will likely take me out of the country where people's can and have been healed before many times. These treatments are citing edge, not just diet places, they are in fully functional hospitals and include vaccines and IV therapies that are effective. Even a bone marrow boost of stem cells done at the end of the 4th week of intensive treatment in one clinic is very promising:). So my plan is to get through 2 more weeks of radiation and then it's off to the best place that will provide the best treatment protocols we can find.
Insurance won't cover it so this time I will let my friends hold an on-line fundraiser and/or event to help with the cost. This type of thing can't be budged for even the medical treatments in this country are not fully covered but we will persevere and not let it defer my intention to become completely healthy and recover from this craziness. Stupidity is doing the same thing over and over. I gave my doctor team 2 years and chemo was clearly not at all effective in my case. My doctors must realize and respect whatever I decide going forward...and I will shock them with my results...I will beat the odds...it has happened before and it I'll happen for me. Positive attitude, healthy wishes and prayers please...that's what I need, no pity please...just love and joy!
Here's the link to cut and paste to your browser: http://www.youcaring.com/rachel-dowd-560137.
I THANK YOU in advance for any support...I've delayed asking because I had hoped this would be behind me but I've still got some more fighting to do! Love and blessings to you all for reading along with me the past 2 years and I have felt your love and prayers all along.