Season Greetings from Wild Salmon Retreat!
What will the new year bring? What is/are my goals? What are your goals? My goal is to keep my mindspiritbody in balance, to reconnect them, and bring them in harmony. My scar from my masectomy - which I call harmony, will always remind me. This past year, chemo and radiation did their job; they tore me down. Now is the time for me to rebuild my strength - spiritually, mentally and physcially. I'm going to be kind to myself and I hope that you will be kind to yourself too.
Below I have listed the 6 principles of Naturopathy and my goal this year to is apply them as needed; i want 2010 to be a year that my cells will giggle and dance.
My class schedule for Winter quarter is Tues, Wed and Thurs. I will spend Fri - Monday in Puyallup. Monday and Friday mornings (9-1) I will be at Curves. I look forward to seeing all the smiling faces.
The practice of Naturopathic Medicine includes six underlying principles of healing. These are based on the observation of health and disease. This observation process involves the use of modern scientific methodologies and language.
The following principles make Naturopathic Medicine different from all other medical approaches:
First do no harm: Primum No Nocere
Illness is a purposeful process of the organism. The process of healing includes the generation of symptoms which are, in fact, an expression of the life force attempting to heal itself. Therapeutic actions should be complementary to and synergistic with this healing process. The physician's actions can support or antagonize the actions of the vis mediatrix naturae -- the healing power of Nature. Therefore, methods designed to suppress symptoms without removing the underlying causes are considered harmful and to be avoided or minimized.
The healing power of nature: Vis Mediatrix Naturae
The body has an inherent ability to establish, maintain, and restore health. The healing process is ordered and intelligent; nature heals through the response of the life force. The physician's role is to facilitate this process, to identify and remove obstacles to health and recovery, and to establish or restore a healthy internal and external environment.
Identify and treat the cause: Tolle Causam
Illness does not occur without cause. Underlying causes of disease must be discovered and removed or treated before a person can recover completely from illness. Symptoms express the body's attempt to heal, but are not the cause of disease. Symptoms, therefore, should not be suppressed by treatment. Causes may occur on many levels including physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual. The physician must evaluate fundamental underlying causes on all levels, directing treatment at root causes rather than at symptomatic expression.
Heal the whole person:Tolle Totum
Health and disease are conditions of the whole organism, a whole involving the complex interaction of many factors. The naturopathic physician must treat the whole person by taking these factors into account. The harmonious functioning of physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects are essential to recovery from and prevention of disease. This requires a comprehensive approach to diagnosis and treatment.
The physician as teacher:Docere
A cooperative doctor-patient relationship has inherent therapeutic value. The physician's major role is to educate and encourage the patient to take responsibility for their own health. The physician is a catalyst for healthful change, empowering and motivating the patient to assume responsibility. It is the patient, not the doctor, who ultimately creates/accomplishes healing. Teaching with hope, knowledge, and understanding, the physician acts to enable patients to heal.
Prevention:Prevention is the best cureThe ultimate goal of any health care system should be prevention of disease. This is accomplished through education and promotion of life-habits that create good health. The physician learns to assess risk factors and to sharpen their deductive reasoning, and understand the patient's circumstances. Appropriate interventions are then sought to avoid
Monday, December 21, 2009
Friday, December 11, 2009
Season Greetings
Its hard to believe that one year ago, November 24, I was diagnosed with breast cancer - where did the year go? It passed so fast just like the blink of an eye.
I just finished up Fall qtr. I was enrolled in two classes, but I ended up taking an incomplete in one. I just didn't have the energy or endurance to plow through. I learned some valuable lessons this quarter; the most important is to acknowlede that I presently have limitations, therefore it is important to pace myself. Do any of you have any idea how difficult that is? I'm sure you do. While my mind may say one thing, my body says something different. My goal is to bring both of them into alignment and find a balance.
Next qtr (Winter), I have decided to take classes that will build me up and contribute to my health. I call them fun classes - Foods and Herbs, and Hydrotherapy. I think both of these classes will nourish and heal my cells. My priorities have shifted - my health and my family is more important that school right now. My lighter load at school will allow me to work at Curves a couple hours/week while Theresa is on maternity leave.
I am going to be a grandma in about 6 weeks - I am so excited. About 4 weeks ago, I began a beginning knitting class. I am having so much fun knitting - it's all I want to do. I found some fabulous organic yarn at Fred Meyers in wonderful warm colors.
I hope you all are being kind to yourself - I sure am with each day. I've gotta keep my cells giggling.
I just finished up Fall qtr. I was enrolled in two classes, but I ended up taking an incomplete in one. I just didn't have the energy or endurance to plow through. I learned some valuable lessons this quarter; the most important is to acknowlede that I presently have limitations, therefore it is important to pace myself. Do any of you have any idea how difficult that is? I'm sure you do. While my mind may say one thing, my body says something different. My goal is to bring both of them into alignment and find a balance.
Next qtr (Winter), I have decided to take classes that will build me up and contribute to my health. I call them fun classes - Foods and Herbs, and Hydrotherapy. I think both of these classes will nourish and heal my cells. My priorities have shifted - my health and my family is more important that school right now. My lighter load at school will allow me to work at Curves a couple hours/week while Theresa is on maternity leave.
I am going to be a grandma in about 6 weeks - I am so excited. About 4 weeks ago, I began a beginning knitting class. I am having so much fun knitting - it's all I want to do. I found some fabulous organic yarn at Fred Meyers in wonderful warm colors.
I hope you all are being kind to yourself - I sure am with each day. I've gotta keep my cells giggling.
Monday, October 26, 2009
Wow - 2 blogs in one week.
Not much new from my last posting other than I've decided to privately document the ebb and flo of my emotions. I didn't find it terribly difficult to write about the antatomical changes, the physical side effects of treatment nor treatment itself, but in order to allow my emotions to be fluid, I need to be in a safe place - internet wouldn't fit that description.
For me, the time has come to deal with the loss of a breast, what it means to be a woman, and my own worthiness. I know that my hope and strength comes from God although I have forgotten that many times on this journey (climb). The beauty around and within me are is causing every cell in my body to giggle and dance. My cells have not giggled for sometime.
I was given a gift certificate from a fellow classmate, Satish, to the Chico Spa in Bremerton; Dr. Cathy Rogers, ND, has been in practice for 27 years - I consider her to be an elder in naturopathic medicine; much healing took place for me emotionally during my visit. The dry lymphatic brushing awoke my immune system, the sauna released toxins from my body, the healing herbs of the steam room soothed my lungs; with each sweat droplet, I envisioned the toxins (and emotions) releasing through my pours. I believe I made peace with my scar. In fact, I call my scar harmony. With harmony as my guide, I strive to keep my mind, body, and spirit in alignment.
The seaweed and herb bath was relaxing, detoxing and insightful. It was during this time that my cells began to giggle and dance. As I layed in this wonderful warm bath, it was the leaves of a tree -blowing gently in the wind - that amused me. The leaves looked like they were laughing. I mentioned this to Dr. Cathy and she said, "what does that experience mean to your body?" And with no hesitiation, I told her my cells were giggling and moving all about.
Well my side is bothering me, so time to relax on couch and put my arm up.
May your cells giggle and dance.
Love Debbie
Not much new from my last posting other than I've decided to privately document the ebb and flo of my emotions. I didn't find it terribly difficult to write about the antatomical changes, the physical side effects of treatment nor treatment itself, but in order to allow my emotions to be fluid, I need to be in a safe place - internet wouldn't fit that description.
For me, the time has come to deal with the loss of a breast, what it means to be a woman, and my own worthiness. I know that my hope and strength comes from God although I have forgotten that many times on this journey (climb). The beauty around and within me are is causing every cell in my body to giggle and dance. My cells have not giggled for sometime.
I was given a gift certificate from a fellow classmate, Satish, to the Chico Spa in Bremerton; Dr. Cathy Rogers, ND, has been in practice for 27 years - I consider her to be an elder in naturopathic medicine; much healing took place for me emotionally during my visit. The dry lymphatic brushing awoke my immune system, the sauna released toxins from my body, the healing herbs of the steam room soothed my lungs; with each sweat droplet, I envisioned the toxins (and emotions) releasing through my pours. I believe I made peace with my scar. In fact, I call my scar harmony. With harmony as my guide, I strive to keep my mind, body, and spirit in alignment.
The seaweed and herb bath was relaxing, detoxing and insightful. It was during this time that my cells began to giggle and dance. As I layed in this wonderful warm bath, it was the leaves of a tree -blowing gently in the wind - that amused me. The leaves looked like they were laughing. I mentioned this to Dr. Cathy and she said, "what does that experience mean to your body?" And with no hesitiation, I told her my cells were giggling and moving all about.
Well my side is bothering me, so time to relax on couch and put my arm up.
May your cells giggle and dance.
Love Debbie
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Where has all the time gone? I don't know if anyone is still out there reading my blog since my last writing (Aug 25th).
Following my infection from radiation (axillary region), then I got a UTI, then some type of virus. All in all it was about 6 weeks and my energy was zapped. Needless to say, these ailments emotionally and mentally knocked me down. It's apparant that I have some emotional healing to be done. For the 8.5 months of treatment, my emotions seemed to be mild then they rose to the surface and have been causing me all kind of havoc. Nor do I handle stress as well as I used to.
I'm in my 4th week of school and enjoying it thoroughly; I am taking two classes and that is perfect for me.
That's all for now.
Debbie
Following my infection from radiation (axillary region), then I got a UTI, then some type of virus. All in all it was about 6 weeks and my energy was zapped. Needless to say, these ailments emotionally and mentally knocked me down. It's apparant that I have some emotional healing to be done. For the 8.5 months of treatment, my emotions seemed to be mild then they rose to the surface and have been causing me all kind of havoc. Nor do I handle stress as well as I used to.
I'm in my 4th week of school and enjoying it thoroughly; I am taking two classes and that is perfect for me.
That's all for now.
Debbie
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Post Radiation Update
Hello,
Following radiation, my skin under my arm (axilla region) began to peel several layers down and became slightly infected. It was very raw and was not healing; but now, it is doing much better. Dr. Standish put a Medihoney dressing on it. Medihoney is used for moderately to heavy exuding wounds. After using it (2 dressings) for a week, my skin began to heal. It is still peeling, but there's no more rawness or sharp pain.
I'm in my last week of summer school. My plans are to go to the cabin Sept 2 & 3 and then camping for a few days with Mark, Janelle and her friend, Mike. I will be supporting Theresa on the 3 day Breast Cancer Walk in Seattle on Sept 11-13. I will see her off as she begins her 20 mile walk and I will be at there at the end of each day when she finishes. Sept 14-18, I will be going on a car camping road trip with Donna, Kristin and Linda Alva. We will be camping along the Olympic Peninsula. We will visit the Sequim spit and the Ho Rainforest. We may even camp on the beach if given the opportunity. Sept. 18-22, I will go to Texas to visit my dad. We plan to go to a rodeo together in El Paso.
While it looks like a busy month, I'll be sure to take my naps and use my energy wisely.
I've been taking turkey tail mushroom for 2 weeks now and I will continue until the study that I'm enrolled in is over. This particular mushroom has shown promising results in reducing the likelihood of prevention/reoccurence in China.
I was at Curves this past Saturday for our rummage sale. We raised approx $730; all of the proceeds will be going to the Susan G Komen breast cancer fund. It was so nice to give and receive hugs from my friends at Curves. I met some new friends while I was there also. The women tell me that they are still praying for me - that's awesome. I'm very blessed.
Remember to eat greens,
love Debbie
Following radiation, my skin under my arm (axilla region) began to peel several layers down and became slightly infected. It was very raw and was not healing; but now, it is doing much better. Dr. Standish put a Medihoney dressing on it. Medihoney is used for moderately to heavy exuding wounds. After using it (2 dressings) for a week, my skin began to heal. It is still peeling, but there's no more rawness or sharp pain.
I'm in my last week of summer school. My plans are to go to the cabin Sept 2 & 3 and then camping for a few days with Mark, Janelle and her friend, Mike. I will be supporting Theresa on the 3 day Breast Cancer Walk in Seattle on Sept 11-13. I will see her off as she begins her 20 mile walk and I will be at there at the end of each day when she finishes. Sept 14-18, I will be going on a car camping road trip with Donna, Kristin and Linda Alva. We will be camping along the Olympic Peninsula. We will visit the Sequim spit and the Ho Rainforest. We may even camp on the beach if given the opportunity. Sept. 18-22, I will go to Texas to visit my dad. We plan to go to a rodeo together in El Paso.
While it looks like a busy month, I'll be sure to take my naps and use my energy wisely.
I've been taking turkey tail mushroom for 2 weeks now and I will continue until the study that I'm enrolled in is over. This particular mushroom has shown promising results in reducing the likelihood of prevention/reoccurence in China.
I was at Curves this past Saturday for our rummage sale. We raised approx $730; all of the proceeds will be going to the Susan G Komen breast cancer fund. It was so nice to give and receive hugs from my friends at Curves. I met some new friends while I was there also. The women tell me that they are still praying for me - that's awesome. I'm very blessed.
Remember to eat greens,
love Debbie
Friday, August 7, 2009
I Have Completed Radiation!
After 8.5 long months, I have finished treatment. Although, I will still have regular blood draws and scans quarterly to watch for possible reoccurance.
It came as a surprise to me that I was finished with radiation today. My radiation appts were scheduled through Aug 12, so when my radiologist told me on Wed. that I had only two treatments left, I was pleasantly surprised.
My skin on my chest wall and under my arm (axillary region) is red, dark brown and very tender. The skin directly above my sternum is also very tender. The dry skin under my arm pit has begun peeling and looks to be healing. I will post a picture in a few days. My radiologist says my skin looks exceptional - it must be the seaweed! It sounds like she will recommend the seaweed to her patients. I shared the wonderful moisturizing benefits of seaweed in the radiation waiting room to other cancer patients.
My next healing step is to begin cleansing my body (liver esp.) of the toxins and building up my immune system, cells, tissues and organs to prevent me from having to go thru this again. Dr Standish, will direct me through this process. This is the part that I have been looking forward to. I believe that my medicine (Naturopathic Medicine) will heal me. Stay tuned for this part of the journey.
I have had more energy and I have enjoyed walking, biking and camping. I still struggle with chemo brain, but that will get better in time. Instead of being one french fry short of a happy meal, now I'm two french fries.
Thanks again for the ongoing love and support. It is your love and concern that had motivated me to keep taking baby steps and not give up. My passion for life and living is coming back.
I'm going camping this weekend to enjoy nature. I'll be pitching a tent and cooking on a coleman stove - doesn't get much better than that (unless I'm staying at the cabin). Mark and Meoka will be joining me. Hopefully, we can get a little hike in.
Chat with you soon,
Debbie
It came as a surprise to me that I was finished with radiation today. My radiation appts were scheduled through Aug 12, so when my radiologist told me on Wed. that I had only two treatments left, I was pleasantly surprised.
My skin on my chest wall and under my arm (axillary region) is red, dark brown and very tender. The skin directly above my sternum is also very tender. The dry skin under my arm pit has begun peeling and looks to be healing. I will post a picture in a few days. My radiologist says my skin looks exceptional - it must be the seaweed! It sounds like she will recommend the seaweed to her patients. I shared the wonderful moisturizing benefits of seaweed in the radiation waiting room to other cancer patients.
My next healing step is to begin cleansing my body (liver esp.) of the toxins and building up my immune system, cells, tissues and organs to prevent me from having to go thru this again. Dr Standish, will direct me through this process. This is the part that I have been looking forward to. I believe that my medicine (Naturopathic Medicine) will heal me. Stay tuned for this part of the journey.
I have had more energy and I have enjoyed walking, biking and camping. I still struggle with chemo brain, but that will get better in time. Instead of being one french fry short of a happy meal, now I'm two french fries.
Thanks again for the ongoing love and support. It is your love and concern that had motivated me to keep taking baby steps and not give up. My passion for life and living is coming back.
I'm going camping this weekend to enjoy nature. I'll be pitching a tent and cooking on a coleman stove - doesn't get much better than that (unless I'm staying at the cabin). Mark and Meoka will be joining me. Hopefully, we can get a little hike in.
Chat with you soon,
Debbie
Friday, July 24, 2009
Radiation update
Hola,
I had a great time at Celebrate Spanaway last sat at the Curves booth. It was wonderful to see my friends from Curves. It was a blessing to see Jessie (thank you for all your help with setting up the booth), Kathy (thank you for staffing the booth), Theresa (arriving way to early to meet me, loading up the stuff, and setting it up), Rebecca (working double duty), Debbie, Riece, Mary (working out at Curves) Bertha, and Norma. Norma couldn't resist rubbing my bald head. Although, it's not so bald anymore, I do have some fuzz on it now! I enjoyed the hugs, smiles and conversation. I was totally exhausted later that day and most of sunday, but it was worth it. Kathy and I entered our dogs in th pet parade contest at the fair, but our dogs didn't win anything. I thought Guizmo would win the smallest pet (he weighs 2.2lbs) award, but some kid brought a guppy and a snail. That ain't right.
The pain in my muscles has begun to subside, yet I still have it in my joints. Dr. Standish, my ND, said that my joints were inflammed still from chemo; myalga (loss of muscle tissue) in my muscles and tendons was causing the pain. In the last two weeks, my eyebrows have begun to thin even more - it's no biggie though, I just pencil them in.
I have only 2.5 wks left of radiation. YES! My skin on my chest wall and underarm looks really good. The Redness, dryness and soreness is very minimal and I attribute that to the seeweed poultice that I'm using (prescribed by Dr. Standish). My radiaologist wasn't to sure about the benefits of the seaweed in my first few weeks of radiation and she insisted that I would turn red. Well, when I saw her last week, she was amazed by the condition of my skin. She and her nurse would like to know more about it and where to get it so they can tell their other patients. I think this is very cool. Dr. Standish will call Dr. Morris to tell her about the benefits of seaweed for radiation patients. Dr. Standish has been telling her patients about it for 1o years.
Enjoy your weekend.
I had a great time at Celebrate Spanaway last sat at the Curves booth. It was wonderful to see my friends from Curves. It was a blessing to see Jessie (thank you for all your help with setting up the booth), Kathy (thank you for staffing the booth), Theresa (arriving way to early to meet me, loading up the stuff, and setting it up), Rebecca (working double duty), Debbie, Riece, Mary (working out at Curves) Bertha, and Norma. Norma couldn't resist rubbing my bald head. Although, it's not so bald anymore, I do have some fuzz on it now! I enjoyed the hugs, smiles and conversation. I was totally exhausted later that day and most of sunday, but it was worth it. Kathy and I entered our dogs in th pet parade contest at the fair, but our dogs didn't win anything. I thought Guizmo would win the smallest pet (he weighs 2.2lbs) award, but some kid brought a guppy and a snail. That ain't right.
The pain in my muscles has begun to subside, yet I still have it in my joints. Dr. Standish, my ND, said that my joints were inflammed still from chemo; myalga (loss of muscle tissue) in my muscles and tendons was causing the pain. In the last two weeks, my eyebrows have begun to thin even more - it's no biggie though, I just pencil them in.
I have only 2.5 wks left of radiation. YES! My skin on my chest wall and underarm looks really good. The Redness, dryness and soreness is very minimal and I attribute that to the seeweed poultice that I'm using (prescribed by Dr. Standish). My radiaologist wasn't to sure about the benefits of the seaweed in my first few weeks of radiation and she insisted that I would turn red. Well, when I saw her last week, she was amazed by the condition of my skin. She and her nurse would like to know more about it and where to get it so they can tell their other patients. I think this is very cool. Dr. Standish will call Dr. Morris to tell her about the benefits of seaweed for radiation patients. Dr. Standish has been telling her patients about it for 1o years.
Enjoy your weekend.
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