We all Have Cancer Genes

Image courtesy of www.oceanchampions.org

Last night, I found out that my sister's good friend was diagnosed with breast cancer. She is a 32-year old lawyer, a beautiful wife and mother. They have no history of cancer in the family. She has always been slender even after she gave birth; she eats the right foods and exercises regularly. It is so inconceivable that someone like her would have cancer, but she did. It's a big wake-up call that we all have cancer genes, anyone can have the Big C.

I shed a few tears last night knowing that she and her family will go through the same journey that our family has experienced and is still experiencing because of this wretched disease. I wish no one will have to go through it, because nothing in the world can prepare you for battling cancer emotionally, physically and mentally. My sister told her that cancer is a family disease, in the sense that everyone in your family will go though this battle, not just you. They may not experience what you have physically, but they will also have sleepless nights, and stages of denial, anger and even regret. They will be more religious than they had ever been, and they will suddenly be paranoid that everything in the environment has germs or causes cancer.

I do pray for all cancer fighters to have a strong support team--family, fries, loved ones, doctors, even strangers they meet along the way. I pray that no one will have to go through it alone, that someone will always be there to hold a cancer patient's hand during chemo, or gently rub his/her back when he/she's vomiting and to give him/her a big hug whenever he/she needs one.

Amuse Yourself!

Immuno-compromised and afraid to get out of the house? Or simply weak from chemotherapy? Don't wallow in depression. Amuse yourself even if you're just at home. Try searching for the funniest commercials on YouTube, they're guaranteed to make you laugh. And the great thing about it is that it's free! So go ahead and indulge yourself in funny adverts. Laughter is indeed the best medicine! Here's one that's pretty hilarious! (warning: it's pretty graphic!)

Stress Balls

Image courtesy of www.break4fun.zarte.net

Having problems with collapsed veins? Try to use stress balls a few times a day before undergoing another chemotherapy session. Stress balls are malleable toys that can be bought at National Book Store or any novelty or gift shop. Squeeze those stress balls, and when it's chemo time, your veins are ready to go. I happen to have a bunch of them that I can give away for free. If you live nearby, just send me a message; they're ready for pick them up. As an alternative, you can also use a tennis ball or simply pump your fist.  Have a good day and don't stress yourself out!

Meet the Oncologists of VMMC!

Meet some of the oncologists at Veterans Memorial Medical Center (VMMC)! No wonder their patients look bright and happy when they go into the chemo room of VMMC. Their cheerful energy is infectious!

Pain in the Breast?

Image courtesy of www.healthline.com

My mom felt pain in her breast the first time she discovered it was cancer in 2008, and she felt pain again in 2011 when the cancer recurred and we found lumps on her right breast (just below her collar bone) and backside. She described the pain as something similar to a huge pus that is about to burst. Ouch! That has got to hurt. And it's not something that should be ignored too. So it's not true that if there is pain, it's not cancer. One thing I have learned in my mom's cancer journey is that you really have to pay attention to your body. Be aware of signs like pain, tiredness etc. and do not delay going to the doctor. It could very well just be nothing, but it doesn't hurt to be cautious. Here's a helpful link to learn more about breast pain: http://allhealthhub.com/pain-in-the-breast-when-to-see-a-doctor.html

Does your Bra Size Matter?

photo c/o www.sizesbra.com

Just 5 years ago during a routine medical exam, the doctor who was examining my breasts told me I was lucky. Because I was well-endowed, chances are, she said, I was not going to have breast cancer. Another doctor also told the same thing to my mom years before. That's why the first time we discovered a lump in her left breast, I was extremely confident that it wasn't cancer, because we all have big breasts in the family. Well let me tell you now that that is a BIG MYTH. Big boobs, small boobs, it doesn't make a difference. Breast cancer, like other cancers, happens when the genetic material of normal cells gets damaged, and these cells mutate and form a tumor. Cancer has no connection with your bra size. So ladies, if you feel a lump in your breast, please have it checked right away. Don't postpone going to the doctor, just do it. Go with someone if you feel scared. You don't have to be alone. Thankfully, my mom did just that. She went to a breast surgeon the very next day, and even if the doctor gave us bad news, the good thing is that we were able to act on it right away.

Happy New Year!

photo c/o psdgraphics.com

Happy new year everyone! My mom's new year's resolution: to be healthy, alive and happy. Starting today, let's all take on the fight against cancer with more strength and courage than ever! To those sons and daughters, husbands, wives and parents who have loved ones battling cancer, be strong for them. Have more patience when they are cranky, hug them when they are upset, love them more when they are feeling lost and defeated. Be the extra ounce of strength that they cannot muster. Always be there, hold their hand and never lose hope. Because miracles do happen, just keep motivating, praying and believing. Let me share with you an inspiring video, which our professor also shared in our leadership class: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kZlXWp6vFdE&feature=fvwrel

 Thanks Father Javy! :) Peace and love to all :)