Impossible decisions
In September, a courageous melanoma friend told me she and her family had to make the impossible decision to move her to comfort and hospice care. My gut reaction was … Continue Reading Impossible decisions
I’m tired.
I didn’t want to wish away the summer but I finally have my people under one roof. May, June, July – -Countless immunotherapy, liver directive treatments and doctor visits and … Continue Reading I’m tired.
What you don’t see.
This weekend was the best! The best because I woke up and felt strong enough physically to be able to participate in what the day had to offer. Saturday was … Continue Reading What you don’t see.
Crazy hard stuff, but the light came (for now)
It’s been a crazy really hard couple months since I wrote last. I write all the time but never had the energy to complete the thought or publish. As I … Continue Reading Crazy hard stuff, but the light came (for now)
B2S, Pork Green Chili, more treatment planned
The yearly post of back to school pictures are all over the social feeds. Lots of comments saying, “how sad, my kids are growing to fast’ ‘please stop time’ etc. … Continue Reading B2S, Pork Green Chili, more treatment planned
I said I’d do it again if it provides HOPE….
In the thick of ‘hell’ of IL-2 in February 2023, I remember telling myself – if I had to do this again I would. I said that thinking it would … Continue Reading I said I’d do it again if it provides HOPE….
Tumor Infiltrating Lymphocytes (TIL) milestones and a personal journey.
Tumor Infiltrating Lymphocytes (TIL) milestones and a personal journey. This is written for a patient and/or caregiver in mind but for all if you want the nitty gritty details. Disclaimer: … Continue Reading Tumor Infiltrating Lymphocytes (TIL) milestones and a personal journey.
Finding me and Happy 4th, my fav holiday!
It’s been an interesting journey since my TIL infusion in February 2023. I keep waiting to be ‘me again’ but have been told by so many including my therapist, acupuncturist, … Continue Reading Finding me and Happy 4th, my fav holiday!
Thank you and Tcell update
Median survival after a metastatic OM diagnosis is 9 months – but treatments are being researched in clinical trials (Melanoma Research Foundation) SO…..I learned of my mets in Aug of … Continue Reading Thank you and Tcell update
Be Raw. (and recovery update)
Earlier this year (pre TIL treatment) I was at the grocery store with my kids and we were checking out. The bagger said, “I am sorry and shouldn’t ask but … Continue Reading Be Raw. (and recovery update)
UPMC 5 MAIN Shout out
After 16 days I said good bye to the most selfless team of humans I have ever met. The nurses, techs, house cleaning, food service, etc. Truly you made 16 … Continue Reading UPMC 5 MAIN Shout out
The Battle
Updates to date – I did it, made it – functional again. Re: my last post. Not sure what drugs or state of mind I was in to be writing … Continue Reading The Battle
It’s just hair
Said NO ONE EVER that was going through a cancer treatment (at least I assume) The typical comments I’ve got when I told someone I’d lose my hair and the … Continue Reading It’s just hair
T minus ‘Go Time’
The last week has been nothing short of an emotional rollercoaster. After the travel to and from Pittsburgh for Leukapheresis I caught a cold / sinus crud and let’s just … Continue Reading T minus ‘Go Time’
Current state: Leukapheresis
Recap: my largest liver lesion was removed in Sept, 2022. Scans in Oct were stable and went into holding pattern. I learned my Tcells grew very potent which was best … Continue Reading Current state: Leukapheresis
Kids….talk, teach, advocate
How to talk to kids about your cancer. Being a mom of 3, I really have NO clue but what I DO know is….you take your scares, unknown ‘shit show’ … Continue Reading Kids….talk, teach, advocate
Mrs Captain Ron 