Chemopalooza

Light Those 5 Year Diagnosis Candles!

2011-12-19T21:27:00.000-05:00

Wow. It's been six months since my last post. I'm beyond overdue, yet not really at all. I mean, let's face it, if cancer reared it's ugly head again, there would be bountiful updates... but since it hasn't, it's really a good thing that I haven't posted.

This December actually marks 5 years since diagnosis. It's funny how some people remember and even celebrate certain dates. Some celebrate remission, some celebrate the last day of their chemo hell, some reflect on their diagnosis day... and of course, some are still battling the beast. For me, there was really never a calendar day that I remembered being told I was in remission. Finding out I had cancer and finishing chemo were two milestones -- err um something. They are two specific dates that don't seem to leave my brain. As I'm typing this up, I'm realizing I'm two days away from my five year diagnosis. It's weird how similar my life is to five years ago. Like eerily similar. I'm back working at a PR firm, doing the hussle bussle thing. Keeping suuuuper busy in my personal life too... happy as can be... I'm almost waiting for the other shoe to drop. But I it won't and can't. I'm hauling ass to June 14 2012, the official 5 year mark... or at least what I'm going to focus on and strive for. Perhaps I should start planning a party or a trip or something for it. Yes, I think something is in order.

It's sad, I'm slowly losing touch with my hodge friends. I mean, it's to be expected. But it's so sad how life gets in the way of keeping touch and remembering cancer. I still think about it daily. It shapes who I am. I wonder when that daily will be weekly, then monthly and then... I've come a long way from being bedridden and miserable and staying at my parents house because I didn't even want to leave to grocery shop. My hair is curlier, but still pretty close to its normal orignial state. My hodge homeys will always be part of me, just a more distant part from time to time.

Well this blog didn't go as deep as I planned. I have a little writers block or something... still it was a necessary update and slightly cathartic as always :)

Happy almost 5 years to me!

XO

Another Year, Another Flag Day

2011-06-11T23:48:00.000-04:00

Last night, I was out with some friends. Someone asked me how the hodge was treating me -- or in my case, not fucking with me ;) And all of a sudden, I pulled out my cell phone and looked at the calendar... a couple days from June 14. What's June 14th? Well, it's Flag Day, my friends. What else is it? It's the day I like to celebrate beating cancer since it was my last chemo treatment, ever.

This will be the fourth year. I finished treatment back in 2007. It seems as the years get further away, I almost forget dates of things. Yet, I still think of the hodge, and how I've changed since then. Usually daily I remember something about that dark time in my life, and think, what a huge feat, and I did it. I won.

Yet, four years later, I often wonder.... should I have dramatically changed my life? Afterall, some people I know weren't so lucky.

I didn't change much about myself from a physical stand point. In fact, I actually put on a few, taunting, post-chemo pounds. But I didn't pick up and travel the world. In fact, I'm still trying to dig out of chemo debt and haven't been able to afford much of a different lifestyle.

I'd like to think from an internal perspective, I've changed. I have a different view of life that I didn't have before. My fearlessness has dwindled a bit, however. My humbleness and compassion has grown. I don't know if that's a win-win or not.

I recently started reading this book, and the writer talked about how she was happy with her life, but always wondered, is this it? Or is there more to my life other than the monotonous of everyday. I often wonder those same things every day. Am I just here to be the person I am today, or do I have some bigger purpose that I haven't realized yet? I think it's kind of like the childhood thoughts of there being one person, a soul mate, waiting in the world for you, and your goal is to find them. Yes, I secretly think like that, but haven't found said person in my 28 years. Is there some special purpose I was put on this earth for? Or just monotony? Of course, I'm still figuring things out.

Anywho, think of me on Tuesday and don your anti-chemo flags, folks.

XO

Financial Assistance Sites?

2011-04-21T23:44:00.000-04:00

Let's face it, cancer is expensive and being out of work while battling it is even more expensive.

I recently met a friend of a friend that is battling the dreaded hodge. A few years back I gathered financial assistance details only to find out now that some of the info is out of date now. If you know of a helpful resource page, please let me know, of just leave comments of good financial assistance resources :)

XO

Chemopalooza Now Has A Disclaimer

2011-01-15T23:13:00.000-05:00

I often get emails from people in the cancer industry - PR firms, analysts, pseudo doctors trying to sell me crap, people trying to get me to review a book on breast cancer (which I never had), etc. etc.

Like many people in the cancer community, I really do want to help people. Afterall, I beat the hodge, I get it. And of course I volunteered for a year talking with cancer patients. But now, I work full-time (and then some) and have other things on my plate.

Good News: If you're dealing with the hodge and you've got questions for me, I'm happy to help! If you just want to tell me my blog inspired you or helped you through a difficult time - email me, I'd love to hear that!

Bad News: But... if you want me to help your client, I probably don't have the time or interest to help (unless you're offering a paying job, of course). I rarely blog on here anymore, and it's tough to respond to every PR pitch I recieve, let along follow their requests.

So please please please, NO PR pitches on Chemopalooza. I work in PR, I get the need for media coverage, but that's not what my blog is about - at all. I list a ton of great resources on here to help patients and medical professionals navigate the cancer interwebs, use 'em!

XO

Almost 2011 - Get a Calendar and Support The Hodge!

2010-12-31T10:10:00.000-05:00

My buddy Ry Ry has become quite the photog over the past couple years since we both beat The Hodge (aka Hodgkin's Lymphoma). In whatever he does, he always shares proceeds with a great charity. This year he came out with a calendar of Boudoir Pinups and all proceeds go to one of my favorite charities - the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society!

For only $10.40 (yes, they're on sale!!) you can look at pretty ladies all year in Ry Ry's 2011 Boudoir Louisville Pinup Girl Calendar!

To purchase one, click here.

XO

I Need A Pet Lamb

2010-12-29T21:46:00.000-05:00

I found this while I was searching for funny birthday cards for a co-worker today and had to share! I know, I need a lamb intervention! My mom event bought me Noah's Arch cookie cutters for Christmas, mostly because they came with a lamb! :)

XO

Tis The Season

2010-12-09T22:11:00.000-05:00

One of the things I love about the holiday season is everyone's caring nature. One thing I dread, is everyone's greed. I'm old now, okay I'm not that old. But I don't need presents to feel loved. I'd prefer kind gestures and friendship and doing nice things for others. It goes much further than some gift that I probably didn't need anyways.

My parents are great, and the past couple holidays they've gotten me extravagant gifts that I couldn't afford on my own. Last year was a wonderful television that I love, but wouldn't have bought myself because, I'm cheap. Now that I'm paying for my new car this year, money is even tighter and I'm trying to be creative with gifts - eventhough the few people I buy gifts for have everything they need.

Although I don't have the money to donate to struggling non-profits, I have volunteered my time and I hope that's enough. Remember folks, it's not about how much you spend, but how you treat others. Pay it forward and try to avoid your greed this holiday season and instead think of something nice to do for someone.

xoxo

Disturbing...

2010-12-09T21:42:00.001-05:00

I'm sitting home with some free time and my laptop open. Perfect time to catch up on my blog a bit. I just went through some comments that had been stuck in my spam filter dating back to August. I had saved one comment that I had meant to follow up on but never had time to actually call the person that left it. Yes, that's right, he left his phone number. He stated that he was a doctor and that he could help me cure my cancer by changing my diet, not letting me take drugs or radiation. Funny thing is, I haven't had cancer in years. Nearly 4 years to be exact. Of course, this guy didn't read that here, or anything about me. I had multiple comments from him which I deleted so you guys wouldn't get sucked in.

I understand that there really are good people out there that want to help others. That's great! I wish there were more people like that. On many occassions, I have been that person, emailing with people struggling with the hodge and stumbling across my blog and I am happy to. But there are also people that are sneaky and out to potentially scam people. After our 11 minute phone conversation, I wasn't convinced this guy was an actual doctor or looking to help cancer patients, he seemed instead interested in possiblly preying on the weak, and uneducated, which I am neither. And to top it off, I Googled him and just found random comments of his, including ones that had been deleted by webmasters for my same concerns.

Trust your instincts, folks. Beware of people that will prey on your weak and hopeless feelings.

I'll post a more positive blog next.

XO

Long Time No Blog

2010-11-06T11:19:00.000-04:00

It's been a while since I last posted - sorry folks, I'm a terrible blogger.

As for my skin cancer slicing, I went back to the dermatologist and she froze the area where we cut to ensure the cancerous cells died. I also just got a $300+ bill for the very minor procedure! I can't believe how ridiculous health insurance is! I'm also thankful to have had better insurance when I had the hodge or I might have had to declare bankrupt. Sheesh!

Speaking of the Hodge. My fellow hodge-fighting friend Jane Steele beat the hodge shortly after I did (maybe a year or so afterwards) and we even share the same birthday -- a few years off, but the same day. I just found out via Facebook that she was diagnosed with AML or Acute myelogenous leukemia - yesterday. My thoughts go out to her and her family as they begin yet another battle with cancer.

Friends, remember to take some time to smell the roses once and a while. I'm on my way to go smell my dog instead, I haven't seen him since August and he's battling Lyme disease but apparently is on the mend. Good thing he is or I'd have to pup nap him
:)

XO

XO

Dodge One Cancer, Slice Off Another

2010-09-27T23:44:00.001-04:00

Being as pale as I am (one of my co-workers calls me a vampire even!), I get annual skin checks to make sure I'm being as proactive as I can to fight skin cancer. That and, I lather up with the sunblock and try to avoid sunbathing since I go from white to lobster.

Anywho, I've also been going to the skin doctor also a few times a year for my skin breakouts -- nothing really works for me, they give me a bunch of crap, swear it works and make me waste my money. Last time I got a facial I showed my chick a little bump I had on my face - near my temple. She thought it was a clogged pore, but it wouldn't unclog. I had had it for about 9 months, and I just happened to have a dermatologist appointment the following week. My derm tried to write off the bump as an acne scar and I basically had to sales her and push her to get it tested. Well... it turns out, it was precancerous cells. I'm only 28 friggin' years old! It was an actinic keratosis and if left untreated can turn into cancer. Yikes!

I have a follow up appointment scheduled for next week. I just can't believe someone as cautious AND young as myself would have precanerous cells on my face! And that my derm tried to pretend it was nothing!

I'll keep you all posted on the next steps if there are any -- and of course, make sure to schedule your annual skin check!

Oh and by the way -- my recent 6-month hodge follow up appointment was clean. I'll hopefully have my last pet scan in 6 months - then it's blood work moving forward! Huzzah!

XO

What If Someone Offered You $100?

2010-08-22T20:39:00.000-04:00

I'm on vacation this week. It's a hodgepodge (haha get it?) of mixed weather - a little more less amazing and blue skied as per usual. So I've been spending a little more quality time with my parents television - especially since they have Showtime and there haven't been as many beach days.

Last week, I got to enjoy a new episode of Weeds (one of my favorite shows) as well as the pilot of The Big C. Since I'm not really participating in the cancer boards or ever reading many blogs these days (sorry friends!), I really am kinda out of the loop in the cancer world. I just kinda stumbled on The Big C, I don't think I've even heard of it.

Anyways, to summarize, the show is all about a woman, Cathy (Laura Linney) who is diagnosed with cancer, stage 4 melanoma. She's given a year-ish to live, hasn't told a soul and is trying to deal with things on her own. You can tell that the rest of the series will eventually have her sharing her story, living her life like it's the last day, and making some fun, bold choices. I guess some people have mixed views about it, but I kinda liked it.

One a side note, this woman is a teacher, and the lead from Precious is one of her students. She's big and sassy, and pretty mean too. Cathy tells her, "You can either be fat and jolly or a skinny bitch - you can't be both!" Later in the episode, she tells the girl that she'll give her $100 for each pound she looses.

I dunno about you, but that got me thinking. If someone offered me $100 for every pound I lost, I think I'd be down for the count. I also think I would earn the right to be a skinny bitch :) What about you? If someone sponsored you and offered to pay you $100 for each pound lost, would that motivate you? Or perhaps something else you've been putting off in your life or takes you out of your comfort zone? $100 for every random person you said hello to? $100 for person you offer to mentor? $100 for each box you unpacked and put in its right place? You get the point, sometimes we all need a little motivation.

XO

If You're Going To Be A Bully - Be A Cancer Bully

2010-08-05T23:37:00.002-04:00

It's been nearly a decade... or at least a few months. We all knew this would happen eventually, yes, we're growing apart and starting to have different interests and meet different people. I don't have cancer anymore. I haven't for more than 3 years. And that, to me, is awesome. I do find myself thinking about it less, but still almost daily because it really has shaped me into the lovely person that I am today. It's cliche, and yes, I totally understand this, but it's true.

I do actually have a cancer topic to blog about surprisingly. It's even a slightly pre-meditated post, and usually I just kind of type until things come out and voila that's the usual way I write. Anywho, today I'm finally getting around to writing about a conversation I had with a good friend of mine regarding the thing that this blog was based on - Chemopalooza.

Did you know that I did some extensive Googling before starting this blog, and no one had used the term before -- now look online, you can buy shirts saying it! My buddy Ry Ry actually was the first to create a shirt for me with it - and then some other Websites copied my idea. I guess imitation is a form of flattery, right?

Well anyways, back to my conversation with my friend Jeff. He was telling me that on separate occasions he had mentioned Pre-Chemopalooza (the original party) to two of his friends - one I have met a few times, and one I have yet to meet. Well the latter was impressed by my strength and humor and though the idea of throwing a party, a last hoorah if you will, before my life substantially changed.

The other thought it was offensive that I tried to live it up before I endured chemo. Almost like I was supposed to sit in my bed, perhaps shopping online for my future headstone and writing my eulogy incase I didn't win the battle. I guess he was almost offended by the whole idea.

I understand both sides - I obviously lean much further toward the first understanding. I honestly think it was the best party I've ever thrown, and the fact that it was in my honor, during a time when I could barely sleep and needed to keep busy for fear that I might have a breakdown worrying about the unknown. It was perfect. It filled so many voids for me, the fact of gathering so many friends together to laugh, be stupid, and enjoy pre-~~cancer~~ I mean chemo me. I already had cancer, duh that's what got me into the party planning business. Ha.

But the guy that thought chemopalooza was wrong - thought like I was mocking cancer. He just missed one thing - I was the one owning the cancer. And well, let's face it, if you are going to be a bully - you might as well be a bully to something life-threatening - and more importantly hair-threatening. I was mocking the cancer, I was hoping it would go back to where it came from, I was hoping it would just realize it was in the wrong body, the wrong lymph nodes and fuck off while I laughed and sipped cheap champagne.

Really, I don't have much to say about this, other than how amusing it was to hear two reactions to my cancer story. Maybe amusing is the wrong work - perhaps thought provoking is a better way to sum up my thoughts. I don't really feel like I"m back to old me -- but I guess old me died a little with the hodge. I looked at a picture today of Pre-Chemopalooza and I look different. Now I just feel a bit more weathered. A bit more scarred. Literally and figuratively.

I'll leave you with this picture from Chemopalooza. You should also listen to this song because I was listening to it on repeat the whole time I typed this up and I love it. I couldn't find it online or I would have added it to my playlist.

Rainy Day Catch Up

2010-06-12T16:37:00.000-04:00

It's dreary, rainy day here and I'm bored. So I'm catching up on some blog stuff today. I made sure to post yesterday real quick before I forgot that Monday is Flag Day. Although no one really remembers what the day is for (my boyfriend aka Google told me that it commemorates the adoption of the flag of the United States, which happened that day by resolution of the Second Continental Congress in 1777) it'll always be remembered to me as the day I made cancer my bitch in 2007.

Also, I looked at my post before that which was from May 3, which means I haven't posted in more than a month until yesterday - whoops! I was writing about my icky car accident. Well the car did, in fact, end up being totaled. Thankfully I got some money from my insurance company and with the convincing of my parents, I ended up buy a brand spanking new Honda CR-V. I really would have been happy to buy a used one, except for the fact that they hold their value so friggin' well that they are basically the same price as new. So I sucked it up and bit the bullet and my wallet is a bit lighter these days.

Here's a picture of what it looks like

That's kinda the most stuff going on in my life these days. Just trying to keep busy and happy.

Oh and I updated my music on the site this week, some new stuff stuck in my head lately. I usually rock out to it at work to drown out the office sounds. Check it out, enjoy!

XO

Happy Almost Flag Day!

2010-06-11T14:06:00.001-04:00

Did you know that Monday, June 14th is Flag Day? Not only is it a random American holiday without a day off of work, it's also the day I finished chemo. Forever.

Yep, I made cancer my bitch on June 14, 2007 and have kept my middle finger aimed at it ever since.

Suck it cancer.

XO

Life Is Short, Enjoy It

2010-05-03T20:58:00.000-04:00

I had an eventful weekend. I decided to go visit my parents this weekend on Block Island, to celebrate Mother's Day a little early and enjoy the warm weather and my pup.

So I headed to Block Island Saturday morning, packed with some pretty spring tulips for Annie because she kept commenting about how much she liked tulips when she visited me the weekend before. Well, long story short, someone slammed on their brakes in front of me on the highway and so I had to do the same thing, lost control of my car and slammed into the metal/wire guard rail. Thankfully, no one was hurt and I was the only one involved in the accident. But it sucked. The crash ripped the entire front bumper and grill off of my car. And put a bit of a damper on my usual sunny disposition.

Good thing is that I always, always, always wear my seat belt. But now, I'll probably be car hunting which sucks. I was hoping that I could put off car hunting for another year and save some money up. Currently, I'm looking mostly at the Toyota Rav4's and the Honda CR-V's something with 4 wheel drive for our yucky winters. But who knows what I'll end up with. I'll know tomorrow if my car is totaled and will move on from there.

Just another reminder that life is short, enjoy it! XOXO

HellEwe

2010-04-29T23:33:00.001-04:00

Not much to report these days, which is why I haven't written :) Just wanted to let ya'll know I'm still kicking around. Hope you're all doing swell and continuing to make cancer your bitch.

XOXO

I Miss Ewe Times Two!

2010-03-29T20:48:00.001-04:00

A few weeks ago I was hunting for cute lamb note cards. I scoured the interweb to only find very few Websites selling novelty lamb cards. Then that pool narrowed even more since I wanted ones that said, "I miss ewe" because I'm a giant dork and I wanted to send my friend Dan cute cards while he's deployed in the Army in Afghanistan. Well my Google searches and hunts on Etsy.com resulted with me finding a cute box set of 10 cards from Grey's Greetings on Etsy.

When I placed my order I found their email address and inquired about the "I miss ewe" card and how I really thought all of the cards were super cute and they would make my friend's day while he's deployed. So then a few days later, I check my mail and found out that they had doubled my order for free because they came from a military family and knew how important mail is. Simply adorable. It made my day, and I know it'll make his too... well at least I hope it will.

So if you're looking to buy some cute cards (they don't JUST sell lamb cards, even though they rock!) you should check out their site.

Or you should just buy me my very own lamb so it can do this!!!!

XO

So Long Western Mass!

2010-03-25T16:06:00.000-04:00

My parents are moving out of Longmeadow next week, it's the end of an era. They've rented their house for a year, and plan on living on Block Island permanently. Hopefully after the year is up, the market will be better and their Longmeadow house will sell. It's sad though, I kinda finished growing up in this house and it's even weirder to think I won't have a Western Mass homebase anymore!

I guess the silver lining is that I have a free beach vacation whenever I want now! No more renters to deal with ;)

Also, the firefighters are throwing my dad a retirement party tonight which should be good. I'll be packing up the last of my remaining things here this weekend and heading back home.

Anywho, that's the latest and greatest for now.

XO

Hey Ewe!!!

2010-03-07T23:55:00.001-05:00

After a long, and super fun weekend, I'm winding down to start the work week tomorrow. I thought a good way to relax before bed was to pay some bills and do a little online shopping to cross off some stuff on my to-do list. Glamorous, I know.

Anywho, I am on a mission to find cute lamb greeting/note cards and I wanted some that said "I miss ewe" to send to my friend that is stationed in Iraq. You would think these would be a fairly common and adorable card -- well apparently, I was wrong. Very slim pickins. I could design my own, but ugh, I wanted something easy and ready made. And once I start making my own, well than I don't want to just have ones that say "I miss ewe" they would need to also say stuff like "Love Ewe" and "Hey ewe" yada yada yada, the list goes on!

Anywho, during my hunt, I instead stumbled on "Fuck Ewe" cards and Ewe Suck cards!! Ha ha ha! I'm not going to buy them because I don't have many people that I hate AND feel like writing them a letter, duh. Afterall, postage rates keep rising :) If you want to buy some (and NOT mail me) you can go to the sellers page on Etsy.com here or the CafePress site here.

Happy almost Monday, everyone!!

Dodged The Hodge, Yet Again!

2010-02-25T20:16:00.002-05:00

I had my latest PET scan yesterday and oncologist appointment today. I found out that I'm still HODGE FREE!! Now the even better news -- I don't have to do a PET scan for my next 6 month visit, just blood work. Then once that is all good and fine, I'm on the year check up plan!!

Suck it cancer!

Back From New York!

2010-02-14T16:03:00.003-05:00

I'm settling into the grind at work -- it's been a busy couple of weeks there. Things probably won't slow down for another couple of weeks. I went to New York this past week for training but I was so busy I didn't really get to enjoy the city that much. Fortunately, I did squeeze in some late night drinks with my pal Morgan :) Next time there will be more and he promised to sing some songs with me... like this one... I know you love this song too

Other than that, not a lot else is going on. I'm enjoying a little down time this weekend and catching up on sleep as I'm trying to shake a terrible cold I came down with while in New York.

Oh and as an update to my last post -- Wullie ended up not coming this weekend due to the snow and a schedule change on his end. I'm sure there will be another time, so don't fret my lambs.

I hope you're all doing swell. That's all for now :)

XO

The Good News And The Bad

2010-01-31T10:15:00.004-05:00

Well let me start off with the bad news to get that out of the way -- I found out this week that my contract where I had been freelancing has been terminated. They hired someone to take over all things Public Relations for the company.

The good news? It was me! Ha ha! I start tomorrow officially as their Public Relations Manager. Should be a great learning experience and fun too. Afterall, people bring their dogs into the office a couple days a week -- can't beat that!

And no folks, it's not cancer-related but it's something I know and I'm pretty decent at. So for now, I'll probably just do some cancer stuff on the side or something.

In other news -- yesterday I finally caved and tried yoga for the first time. People have been bugging me forever. Mostly massage therapists who get the awesome job of trying to fix my super tight muscles that are more like rocks than muscles.

Nicole's yoga place was having an open house this weekend, so I decided to conquer my intimidation in class. It was 90 minutes -- and I gotta say that I was ready for it to be over in an hour. I had no idea how much people sweat during yoga though. The room was nice and warm, but literally just stretching made me drip buckets! By the end of class I was soaked from head to toe. Who knew!? Everyone that goes say they love it -- but I'm on the fence. I think I might have to give it another whirl and see what it's about. My body is already pretty sore from yesterday but it could be good for my uptight muscles :)

In other exciting news, I heard that my pal Wullie from Scotland is coming to visit me the weekend of the February 12th. He's working in Alabama for a couple weeks and convinced his company to send him my way for the weekend. Hooray!

Okay, that's my latest and greatest for now. I'll try and post again soon. Hope you're all swell! And thanks for the notes new Chemopalooza readers! Glad my site helped!

XO

TV's Dexter Has The Hodge

2010-01-18T16:44:00.005-05:00

Michael C. Hall, otherwise known as Dexter, has recently announced that he is battling the dreaded Hodge. He accepted his Golden Globe last night making his first appearance since announcing his diagnosis. He's looking pretty similar to how I looked 3 summers ago. I always loved him on Six Feet Under and I hope he makes the Hodge his bitch.

In other news, my pal Bekah, who did her first round of treatment the same time I did, is continuing to battle Hodgkin's. Her latest treatment of the clinical trial SAHA is kicking her butt and making her incredibly sick. She recently decided to stop the trial and try and get a better quality of life. Unfortunately, she's still battling nausea, weight loss, vomiting, and fevers while being admitted in the hospital. Please think happy thoughts that she starts feeling better soon.

Humble Me

2009-12-16T21:21:00.004-05:00

It was three years ago tomorrow that I was being sliced open to find out that I had Hodgkin's. What a crazy couple of weeks it was leading up to my surgery and then my diagnosis. Nothing stops you fast in your tracks like a cancer scare.

Cancer has changed my life. Period. Not to say that I wasn't a humble and giving person before, because, let's face it, I was. But it has changed some of my perspectives. I'm alive now, and really that's what matters to me. I try to live in the moment and relish the good times and try to get through the bad ones knowing they too, shall pass.

Also, my perspective on holidays has also changed. I really was never a huge person on receiving gifts during the holidays -- and I'm still that way (it's the thought and effort that counts), but I try to put in more effort to support those more needy than me. I even made my Halloween costume give back to the needy -- those 8 babies are going to make some kids very happy!

Anywho, as I remember this time that was so critical in my life 3 years ago, I just want to remind you all of what is important in life. The good stuff! Not dwelling on the bad all the time! And of course, surrounding yourself with those that make you happy and a better person.

Happy Holidays and XO

Gotta Look At The Positives

2009-12-06T23:18:00.004-05:00

We had our first snow storm this weekend, all is pretty and wintery looking now. I'm now in the holiday spirit, I even watched my favorite holiday movie, When Harry Met Sally tonight. I've got most of my holiday shopping done too -- well half. I'm only shopping for a couple people since I'd rather just do dinner with friends as our gifts to each other. And ya know, I'm no millionaire!

I also made out most of my holiday cards tonight -- which means if you think i don't have your mailing address, you should email me it at kelly(dot)kane(at)gmail(dot)com.

Okay, so in other news, the hospital gig didn't happen. They really liked me except they wanted me to have more of a sales background. The HR recruiter and I hit it off though and he's going to keep his eyes out for jobs I'm a fit for. At least they made their decisions fast on it and didn't leave me hanging. See, I'm looking for all the positives here ;)

I'm also still working a lot and even have a prospect for some more freelance work. I'm hoping to land something full-time in the New Year though. I'd like company discounted health care for my holiday present this year, folks. Just incase your shopping for this girl that has everything :)

Oh and good news, folks! I got my H1N1 vaccine finally! Thank goodness for being a cancer survivor and having slight priority over other people!

Okay friends, email me your mailing addresses if you expect a card from me!

XOXO

More Desirable When Taken

2009-11-20T20:31:00.003-05:00

It's been a long week, I've been keeping super busy and worked almost 40 hours this week. I even got them some media coverage this week, so at least I'm starting to prove myself a bit, thank goodness. Today I even got a phone line set up, so I'm setting some roots for myself there a bit.

I really think that once you have something, somehow, people know and want you. It goes with dating too, when your single, no one looks at you; when you're not people come out of the wood work. Well I'm finally situated at my freelance gig, and the other day my cell phone rang. It was a local hospital looking to interview me for a job! Of course, I'm going in because I've got to see what it's all about. They said they received 212 resumes and narrowed it down to 8 people and I was one of them. How interesting. I'll know more next week about the job, but it's always good to have options. Now if only I can convince every single man I meet that I'm in a relationship to make myself more desirable :)

I'm trying to be more of an optimist than I already am. I know, it's hard to do since I am often optimistic. But sometimes I don't go to parties and stuff if I think I won't know anyone since I usually fly solo. Well I've been accepting invites lately, and having a blast. I went to a party a few weeks ago and only knew 2 people, and I had a blast. I was the life of the party... take that, single men! I even got hit on by an unattractive man, but hey, keep the compliments coming!

XO

New Beginnings

2009-11-14T23:37:00.003-05:00

Okay, so I said I might have exciting job news on my last post and well, it's actually a little different than expected. I got offered a job with an interesting non-profit, not perfect for me, but interesting. Unfortunately, the salary wasn't what I expected at all. So I actually had to turn it down. It was only a 7 month contract position. It was supposed to be 9 months but they took so long with the interview process that it was down to 7. I thought about it for almost a whole week, weighed my options and thought about my work-life balance that I'm working to find and well and I just couldn't see myself working for an entry-level salary to work 40+ hours a week. It sucks, but that's just how the cookie crumbles sometimes.

The positive thing about this opportunity is that I actually ended up upping my freelance hours to closer to full-time because I told them about my offer. I'm still getting myself situated there, and still trying to prove myself a bit but it seems to be a positive experience. It's actually really close to where I live so I usually work from their office too. I hate working from home, so I'm glad that was an option for me. We're getting a process in place for everything and I think soon some good things will come from it. Plus, people often bring their dogs into the office and you know how much I love dogs! :)

This is about the time that I started improv last year because I felt I was sorta missing out on stuff and looking for new opportunities. Well I'm done with improv and now trying to come up with my next project. I've been getting inspired by reading Kathy Griffin's book which sounds similar to me... I'm a dork, I know. But the thing is, she did improv for years and kinda sucked at it. Her teachers kept telling her to stop being Kathy and try character work and be someone else, and she didn't want to, she wanted to be herself -- just like me. So I'm thinking of trying stand up. It's always been on my to-do list, but I've always been a bit scared of it and the process of writing down "material." I mean so many people have told me to write a book of all the insane things that happen to me-- aside from cancer that is-- there are enough cancer books out there. And of course, people still stumble upon Chemopalooza and find some solace in it as well.

I'm also starting to look for a new place to live which is kinda scary. I've lived here for 3 years and I do love my apartment, but I think it's a bit expensive and it would be nice to save some money or spend it on traveling or something cool instead. Or purchase a male escort to take me on dates -- I kid, I kid. I'm hoping to find a place closer to Boston too. Nicole is going to be my roommate too, so that'll make things cheaper and more entertaining as well.

My parents are selling their house and planning to move to Block Island which is pretty crazy too. They put it on the market a few weeks ago and I've gone back and forth a couple of times and helped to de-clutter my room there. My mom is retired now too, which is so weird. She's worked basically my entire life. Hopefully she'll actually come and visit me now that she has free time -- hint hint.

My dad has knee surgery on Tuesday so think happy thoughts for him. It should be an easy breezy surgery, so I don't expect anything crazy to go down.

That's my latest and greatest, folks. I think my mono is mostly subsided at this point. I've been run down a bit but I really think it's just my new routine of working and sleeping much less.

Mmkay that's all I've got for now. I still haven't set up my RSS feeds on my new computer so I'm sure I've slacked on reading what's going on with all of my cancer peeps. I hope you're all swell and doing fabulous.

Halloween and Octo Me

2009-11-03T20:27:00.003-05:00

This past Halloween was a blast! Even though I'm a super creative individual, I'm always terrible at coming up with costumes. This year, my mom came up with my costume. I was... Octomom! There aren't a ton of pictures because I only brought my phone and apparently the guy who took the picture didn't have steady hands... but you get the idea on my costume. It was a success! And the best part was, I kept losing babies all night and people were yelling at me for being a bad parent, ha ha!

I also made sure to take Veronica's advice and drink my pink champagne from them. I brought it to the party so others could enjoy the wonders that is pink and bubbly. Also, I might have some more interesting job hunt news in a few days so be sure to stay tuned.

Busy Week!

2009-10-24T15:44:00.004-04:00

This week was such a busy week. I started a new freelance gig that's much more stable and organized. It should keep me busy until I land something full time. And of course, the first day I started, I got a call to schedule an interview. It's always how things go. I'm keeping all options open right now, but I could be content on doing this until the perfect job shows itself.

I also bought myself a new laptop this week. Mine was so ridiculously slow that it needed to be replaced, especially since I'd be using my own computer for the freelance stuff. So far, I'm pretty happy with my little 14 inch HP laptop. It's definitely not as hot as my old one either, hooray! It's got Windows 7, so I'm still working on understanding it and setting it up with my old stuff.

Anywho, just wanted to post a quick update.

XO

Have You Blamed Drew's Cancer Lately?

2009-10-21T23:35:00.004-04:00

I've been overwhelmingly impressed by Drew Olanoff over the past year. He's a social media guru, the proud owner of @drew on twitter and brains behind #blamedrewscancer. He's a fellow Hodge warrior and has been creating some serious buzz, awareness and cash to benefit the LiveStrong Foundation.

People can blame whatever they want on Drew's cancer. How cool is that!? I mean, let's face it, I often blame a lot of stuff on the beast that is the Hodge. Weight gain... Hodge. Gray hair....Hodge. Lack of memory.... again, the Hodge. So why not blame everyday things on Drew's cancer as well? I #BlameDrewsCancer for my computer being slow. It's that simple. And from the looks of his Website, it looks like he's hoping sponsors will donate for every tweet to LiveStrong after he beats it.

Celebrities from Alyssa Milano and Lance Armstrong are following Drew and blaming his cancer for loving chocolate or breaking a bone. And get this, comedian Drew Carey is offering to pay $1 million to the LiveStrong Foundation for Drew's @drew username on Twitter if he gets 1 million people following his @DrewFromTV username on Twitter by December 31. So why not go follow @DrewFromTV on Twitter.

Go!

October Is Champagne Consumption Month

2009-10-17T14:22:00.004-04:00

When Veronica and Wullie came to visit last year for Hodge-a-palooza they were nice enough to bring me a fancy bottle of pink champagne from their layover at Paris. I've been saving it for a special occasion, mainly when I land a job and have good cancer news. Well I've already gotten the good cancer news, but I decided that it's not enough that warrants the champagne. I've decided that I need more good news before I pop the cork. Needless to say, I'm going to finally put it in the fridge to keep it chilled and ready for the opportunity. I have a feeling October is my month for champagne consumption :)

I was in Block Island last weekend for our pseudo Canadian Thanksgiving and quality time with my family and of course, my dog. I stayed until Wednesday which was a refreshing change of pace.

I also updated my music to a perkier tune that I'm loving lately. The bad thing about having an iPhone is that I end up buying way more music that I used to. I recently bought 2 Feist albums and I love love love them.

That's my update for now. XO

From My Phone

2009-10-12T16:37:00.000-04:00

No Hodge, No Foul

2009-10-09T23:02:00.005-04:00

Thank you everyone for your kind words and comments. I'm feeling much better now. It was good to see my family and as always, I kept them smiling when times got sad. I carried around my iPhone and showed people at the wake my favorite picture of my Uncle Donald... him and my stuffed yak on Block Island. It made everyone laugh and smile. They also said he always wanted to have a recording in his casket yelling at people when they sat down to pay their respects... if only I had known :)

I'm heading to Block Island this weekend for our annual Canadian Thanksgiving Bonanza. It'll be a smaller group this year, but still I'm looking forward to it.

And lastly, I've been meaning to post this for almost two weeks now. I know I had posted that I had activity on my last scan and I was nervous about a relapse. Well it sounds like it's not the case and instead I have mono. I don't really have any symptoms of it other than I have an excuse why I enjoy naps and I snore at night sometimes, weird, I know. I must have the mildest case there is, but I'll take it any day over the Hodge. So as I said to my friend Nicole the other day, No Hodge, No Foul.

I'm working on a couple new prospects and expanding my search a little more. I think my bad luck streak will have to change this month even with this news on the job market. Think happy thoughts along with me. Afterall, it's Fall, my favorite season, that's gotta count for something!

XO

I'm In A Funk

2009-10-03T23:20:00.002-04:00

This week I've been in a funk. I've lost two people to cancer this week and it's been pretty overwhelming. First my poor Uncle Donald, and then dear sweet Adrienne who had battled The Hodge for 13 years.

Sometimes I get so frustrated at myself because I should be living the most exciting life since I fought really hard to get this second chance. But of course that's not always the case. I think all of the cancer surrounding my life and my ongoing hunt to find a job has been getting me down.

Tomorrow I'll be volunteering at the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer event in Boston and then heading to Western Mass for my Uncle's wake and funeral. Ugh.

My Uncle Donald

2009-10-01T11:51:00.002-04:00

I have some very sad news to report, my Great Uncle Donald passed away on Tuesday from lung cancer and emphysema. I saw him a few weeks ago and he wasn't doing so well. He was still pretty funny though, just really weak and tired. I prefer to remember him as he was in this picture instead. I believe that weekend in Block Island (Canadian Thanksgiving) he also had me file his nails for him ;)

He will be missed but at least he's comfortable now. XO

Contaminated Water To Blame For Male Breast Cancer Cluster

2009-09-29T22:24:00.006-04:00

I was talking to my dad the other day and he mentioned seeing a segment on CNN the night before about several men that all get breast cancer from drinking contaminated water while being stationed at Camp Lejeune between the 1960s and 1980s. Once I heard this I knew it was about Peter Devereaux, a man I interviewed about his cancer story while volunteering.

I was soooo soooo happy that Peter finally got the media to listen to their heart-wrenching story. Please take a moment to watch the CNN clip and read the story. I'm hoping this coverage of their story will get the Marine Corps to finally take blame for this and compensate these men that served their country.

*pictured is Jim Fontella, one of the men from Camp Lejeune.

A Potential Light At The End Of The Tunnel

2009-09-26T13:07:00.007-04:00

Well folks, I followed up with my oncologist yesterday and it sounds like I might have mono, hoooray! According to him, my blood tests show evidence of Epstein-Barr virus which causes mononucleosis aka mono. I have to get some additional blood tests but I'll definitely take mono over the Hodge any day of the week :)

And if it's mono, I won't have to do any sort of biopsy on my throat! Hopefully that's what it is. Afterall, I like sleeping, and now I have an excuse why I love it so much.

But of course, sorry if you were planning to makeout with me in the near future. I think I'll have to take a rain check.

Stay tuned and of course, XO.

I'm A Conundrum

2009-09-23T21:49:00.005-04:00

At least that's what my oncologist thinks and most likely many of the men I've dated, but that's a whole other story.

I had my PET scan on Monday and met with my oncologist that afternoon for the results. They were sorta what I was expecting and sorta a surprise. I still had activity on my throat which we need to get to the bottom of. I also had spots lighting up in my armpits and my neck, all symmetrical, which isn't a sign of Hodgkin's but my oncologist doesn't know what it could be. He's running additional blood work (you should see my druggie looking arm - 4 pokes and lots of bruising) to rule out a few things like mono, etc. We're thinking I've got to have some sort of immune disorder or something since I'm literally sick every month and a half, and umm that's not normal for someone who's been out of treatment for two and a half years.

My oncologist was pretty concerned and probably spent the longest time with us that he has in a few years trying to determine what's going on with my body. We decided I'm going to do a biopsy of my throat with an Ear Nose and Throat doctor to figure out why my throat infection of sorts hasn't healed in over three months. Hopefully, they won't have to cut me up externally at all and can go right down my throat instead. That was a big concern of mine, my scars just don't heal and stay super pink so I'm not really excited for an additional scar and would probably look into other options if that was the case.

And of course in the back of my head there's still that idea that it could be the Hodge. When it rains it pours, right? I think I'm just in a funk lately so I'm thinking the worst. I've been trying to keep busy and so far I've been pretty good at that. I went to the Big E yesterday with an old friend that I grew up with. As always, the highlight of the day there was the petting zoo with the goats, lambs and donkeys! I'm such a dork. If any decent pictures surface, I'll be sure to post them.

Job Interview Update

2009-09-20T15:04:00.002-04:00

Many of you have been asking about my job interview and if I found out if I got the job. Unfortunately, I found out on Friday evening that I didn't get it. I made it to the final round, it was just me and one or two other people, but I didn't make the cut.

I'm trying to stay optimistic about this job hunt business but it's stressful. Just when I think the hunt is over, it starts back to round 1. So I'm moving on and continuing to pursue other opportunities. It's just disappointing that the things I'm passionate about aren't necessarily hiring. I'm also considering going back to school. I might look and see what kind of financial aid and scholarships I can get too. Of course, all this thinking comes at a time when my parents are retiring and working on selling their house and moving to Block Island so it might rule out a free place to live. Time will tell.

Sorry I don't have super exciting job hunt news folks. Hopefully tomorrow I'll post that I'm still Hodge free.

XOXO

PET Scan On Monday

2009-09-18T12:43:00.001-04:00

On Monday I have my three month follow-up PET scan at Dana Farber. Cross your fingers for no more throat activity!

Also, think happy thoughts for my Uncle Donald, he's battling lung cancer and is doing hospice now.

XO

What A Great Birthday Week!

2009-09-13T23:48:00.003-04:00

It was a great birthday week for me! I treated myself to a pedicure on my birthday afternoon and did a little shopping followed by dinner with Mandy and Jeff which included the most thoughtful birthday present ever -- homemade lamb cupcakes by Mandy!! And they wouldn't let me share them! After dinner we went to meet up with some other friends and do karaoke in Cambridge. It was a good time, I felt like I was in college, except for that fact I was exhausted when I got home :)

It's the little things for sure. I love when people go out of their way for someone, even if it's just to email and say happy birthday :) The lovely Ry Ry and Jenny even sent me a birthday package last week with a shirt that says "Someone in Louisville Loves Me," thankfully they live there!

Oh and I can't forget that my parents called me and had my dog singing Happy Birthday to me. I guess my training paid off!

The Countdown To 09-09-09

2009-09-02T21:39:00.004-04:00

Yes, that's right folks, 09-09-09 is just around the corner. Soon I'll be saying goodbye to 26 and hello to 27. Nothing like celebrating another birthday :)

2009-09-02T12:07:00.003-04:00

The early Fall weather is invigorating! I'm thinking about pup napping my dog and heading to Block Island for the long weekend. It's just a thought, I'll make up my mind tomorrow or Friday :)

I've also unfortunately been hearing of more and more layoffs this month at non-profits. I was starting to think things were picking up until I heard about them. Please keep that in mind when you're asked to donate for your favorite non-profit - it might help it's cause, but it also might keep someone employed.

XO

What A Great Friday!

2009-08-21T21:15:00.005-04:00

Today was such a nice day. I've been feeling a little extra tense lately and scheduled a 30 minute deep tissue massage this morning. After that and catching up with my favorites at The Spa, I decided to run some errands at the Burlington Mall. I played around in Sephora for a bit, one of my favorite indulgences. Then went to go buy some shampoo (I know, I know, I love me some shampoo) and then found out they were offering free hair and scalp treatments today. So of course, being the recessionista that I am, I couldn't pass on the free offer. After a scalp massage and super moisturizing treatment and the massage from earlier, I was super relaxed!

To top the great day off, I checked my home voicemail while I was sitting at the salon and found out that I indeed make it to the second round of interviews! I was floored! What an amazing day! I'm not exactly sure when the second interview will be, but I should find out next week sometime. Stay tuned!

Anywho, just wanted to share my terrific day to you all. Enjoy the weekend!

XO

2009-08-18T08:25:00.001-04:00

The weather has been so nice that I took a quick trip to Block Island on Sunday and stayed with uncle Ron and auntie Judy. Just what I needed...

Quick Interview Update

2009-08-13T12:04:00.003-04:00

Hi folks. Just a quick update that I think the interview went well. The woman I interviewed with even did her research on me and checked out my blog. To me that shows me that she was interested in me -- at least the me on paper.

They are just beginning the interview process. This position hasn't even been posted online (yay) and they had my resume in their database already. HR started with a pool of 60 qualified resumes and then narrowed it down to 5 people to bring in and I was one of the 5. However, that means that right now I'm still actively competing with 4 other qualified candidates so it's anyones game. I should find out in a week or two if I made it to the next round.

Keep everything crossed. It sounds like a great opportunity.

XO

Cross Everything

2009-08-09T21:22:00.003-04:00

I have another interesting interview tomorrow that's actually cancer-related! Please cross everything for me that I like them and they like me! I'll share more once I know more!

Hodgkin's Gets Strong Corporate Advocates

2009-07-28T20:15:00.003-04:00

Here's some info that my pal Duane at JournalofaPrizefighter recently shared with me:

Taco Bell President - Greg Creed and Honeywell International - Senior-Vice President Adriane Brown, are emerging as strong advocates for Hodgkin's research.

These two powerful executives reside on the Board of Directors for the Alese Coco - Fight 2 Win Foundation. This New York based foundation is dedicated strictly to Hodgkin's research. Alese was also Duane's friend and they often conversed while she was being treated at Sloan-Kettering. She lost her battle to the Hodge in 2007 at the young age of 23.

On July 1, 2009, Greg Creed and Taco Bell facilitated the taping of the first ever Public Service Announcement for Hodgkin's Lymphoma, which was taped at Paramount Studios in Hollywood, California. The PSA was directed by the Russo Brothers who directed Arrested Development and the motion picture, You, Me & Dupree.

Duane spoke to Paul Coco (Alese's father) last week and he described the PSA as: 'Both challenging and gripping. It will bring much needed attention to a lymphoma that receives far too little consideration from pharmaceutical companies for research. 'The fact is that Hodgkin's has somewhere between 25% - 40% recurrence rate and nearly half of all stem cell transplants fail, and that's unacceptable. We're striving for complete cure.'

The 30 second spot will begin airing nationally on several major networks beginning this September.

Please be sure to check out the foundation's Website and read more about Alese. I've recently emailed with her father and he seems like such an amazing person. I can't wait to see the PSA!

XO

Gap's Give & Get Program Is Back

2009-07-27T13:04:00.004-04:00

Just in time for you back to school shopping Gap is offering 30% off of purchases with 5% going towards the charity of your choice, including the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. This sale is going on from July 30 - August 2.

Personally, I'm a huge fanatic of Gap because they always have great sales, benefit causes close to me, AND the clothes they sell always fit me which is a tough feat. I bought a bunch of great stuff there a month or so ago including 2 pairs of $70 jeans for $20 each instead. Can't beat that!

To download your coupon click here. Think about it, the more money you spend, the more money LLS gets, the more financial aid available to blood cancer patients.

Okay, now go spread the words to your friends!

Updates And Pictures

2009-07-20T22:34:00.006-04:00

Again, I've been out of commission for a while. I was having such a great time on Block Island with my family and my dog. Swimming, walking the dog every night, enjoying the sun. Then I went off Island to my first improv class for the level 5 session (which went great), and when I got back to the Island that Sunday I had a fever, the chills, and felt awful. It continued for several days, so I headed to the doctors office on Block Island. The doctor here thought I might have Lyme Disease since I had a fever for several days as well as most of the symptoms of it. Apparently, just living in the Northeast makes you at great risk for it. Plus, I've been playing with my dog and walking him and whatnot, so I've been at greater risk. So alas, I went on medication for it, doxycycline, and it was awful. Last night was the last day I could stand it, I ended up throwing up from the nausea associated with it. I've since switched to amoxicillin and hope that I can continue to enjoy my last week on the Island.

Here are some pictures I took tonight. I hope you enjoy!!

Bailey posing with my dad after I asked him if he likes to swim

North Point at sunsetNorth Point at sunset

The Sorta Good And The Crappy

2009-07-06T12:07:00.002-04:00

Well folks, I've got some sorta good news and some crappy news. First let's start with the crappy news. I just found out that I didn't get the job at Dana Farber and it went to an internal applicant. I'm really bummed because I thought I was perfect for it and it was all finally going to happen. But alas, someone already in their system got it.

Now for the sorta good news. I talked to my oncologist the other day and he gave me the results of my PET scan. He said it doesn't look like Hodgkin's, but it looks like there's something in my throat - most likely an infection. But he sounded weird about everything, he's a pretty serious guy anyways, so I'm not sure what to think. Either way, I've got to get rescanned in September at some point so I can be officially clean again. So for now, I'm taking it as I'm clean with some sort of leftover infection from my bout with strep or whatever it was last month.

I'm still on Block Island and the weather and fresh air is perfect. I just got back from walking my lazy pup and am probably heading to the beach shortly. Might as well enjoy the vacation while I can :)

Cancer Fighters Award 2009

2009-07-05T12:37:00.003-04:00

I stole this post from Duane because he wrote it so well :)

Great Nonprofits.org is running a campaign to identify the top non-profits across the country serving the cancer community.

People who have personal experiences with organizations (volunteers, clients, board members, donors) are encouraged to post reviews and stories on Great Nonprofits.org, and the nonprofit that receives the most positive reviews during July will win the contest. Individuals who participate also have a chance to win prizes.

I'm Too Young For This, Ulman Cancer Fund For Young Adults, and First Descents are just a few of the organizations nominated.

Visit Great Nonprofits.org for more information about these organizations and to post a review for the one that has made the most difference for you.

Check List Almost Complete

2009-06-30T20:38:00.004-04:00

PET scan complete. Job interview, done. Next up, Block Island! I'm heading there first thing tomorrow morning and looking forward to some quality time with my parents, dog and the beach!

As for the job interview, no updates yet but I think it went really well. They told me that they wanted to fill the position as soon as possible, so I'm hoping I'll hear very, very soon. Hopefully I'm not crazy and they really did like me :) I'll be sure to post an update as soon as I hear anything!

Short post, but I wanted to provide a quick update on everything!

Rescheduled PET Scan

2009-06-29T17:29:00.003-04:00

Just a quick update to let you all know that I rescheduled my PET scan for tomorrow afternoon. I won't get the results for a few weeks because I didn't want to do an appointment by myself and am pretty sure I'm clean anyways. I'm hoping I can just get the results over the phone and skip the appointment :)

So anywho, think clean thoughts tomorrow around 2pm!

XO

OPI and Look Good...Feel Better

2009-06-29T16:57:00.007-04:00

Hi folks. As you know, I love the Look Good...Feel Better program. If I could go every year and pretend I had cancer, I so would. I also just love seeing women's faces when they feel fabulous after the program, and enjoy the laughter that goes along with the whole process.

I just found out that during July and August, OPI will contribute a portion of the proceeds of every bottle of its top-selling Bubble Bath Nail Lacquer sold, with a minimum contribution of $25,000, to Look Good...Feel Better. AND it's actually a good color that goes with everything! So start stocking up, but wait until July of course!

XO!

Job Hunt Looking Up

2009-06-27T20:43:00.006-04:00

I've been having more success lately on the job hunt, hooray! No job yet, but I've had two interviews this month and I have an in-person interview at Dana Farber on Monday! Yes, Dana Farber. It's the first time they've actually responded to any of my 30+ resume submissions, so I'm pretty excited at the possibility to get my foot in the door. Hopefully my volunteer work will give me some good karma for it :)

After my interview on Monday I'm heading to Block Island for a few weeks with my family. I'm hoping the weather finally starts to warm up here and it stops raining so I can go to the beach!

I got blood work done last week to make sure I didn't have mono or anything since I've been so run down. All the results came back clean except for the fact that I'm low in vitamin D -- thanks Mother Nature! I'm hoping a visit to the beach and quality time with my dog will re-energize me a bit.

Anywho, that's the latest and greatest! Please think happy thoughts on Monday that I'll like them and they'll like me!

Deadline Approaching - LLS Financial Aid

2009-06-15T23:19:00.005-04:00

The deadline to apply for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society's financial aid is Tuesday, June 30th. If you're going thru treatment for a blood cancer or did this year, or had up to $500 of cancer-related costs (co-pays, prescriptions, etc.) you should definitely apply for this ASAP. To fill out the form, click here. They also have a Co-Pay Assistance Program which you can read about here (warning, it's a bit more confusing). I highly recommend calling LLS (800) 955-4572 with any questions you might have, since it can be overwhelming, and because the deadline is only 2 weeks away.

Here's the kicker about the financial aid program that I learned about today, it's been $500 for a few years but due to the economy the reimbursement is being cut down to $150 for next year (their fiscal year starts July 1, 2009). My suggestion to you folks is to submit for both years, if possible. Get all your paperwork in for the June 30 deadline for the $500 reimbursement, and then get started on filling out the paperwork for the 'new fiscal year' shortly after to guarantee you get the $150 incase they run out.

I hope you all find this info helpful, I know I did when I was going thru treatment. Every little bit helps folks!

XO

Flag Day!

2009-06-14T23:24:00.002-04:00

This year's Flag Day almost passed me! It's officially been two years since I finished chemo! Pop that champagne folks! Of course, I still haven't done my two year scan yet since my throat infection of sorts hasn't fully worked itself out of my system yet... but I'm pretty sure all is clean!

Just thought I would share while it was still June 14th!

XO

Sixty Percent of Cancer Patients Try Unconvential Treatment Methods

2009-06-09T23:02:00.004-04:00

I just came across this article written by the Associated Press that discusses how sixty percent of cancer patients try non-traditional, and typically not authorized by their oncologists, medications and supplements in order to boost immune systems, fight cancer, slow growth, etc. which can ultimately kill them.

Please read this article when you have a moment, it references some drug interactions that might be harmful to you whether you're currently being treated for cancer or not. Here's a few examples from the article:

"Examples of potential harm:
-Vitamin E can prolong bleeding time and has forced cancellation or delay of cancer surgeries; some studies suggest it may raise the risk of certain cancers.
-Beta carotene, a precursor of vitamin A, may raise smokers' risk of developing lung cancer.
-Folic acid supplements may raise the risk for precancerous growths in the colon.
-Vitamin C in large doses may help cancer cells resist chemo and radiation."

So if you're a smoker, make sure to lay off the beta carotene folks!

PET Scan Canceled

2009-06-07T13:51:00.002-04:00

Hi folks. Just a quick update to let you know that I had to cancel my PET scan for tomorrow because I'm soooo sick. There's thoughts that it's strep throat. The entire left side of my throat is swollen and I can't swallow or anything. Oh and I'm running a 100 degree fever. I thought about going to the ER but was told it could take hours and I don't feel good as is. I'm such a baby when I'm sick. Ugh.

XO

Oh Snap! Chemopalooza Ranked Again!

2009-06-05T15:47:00.002-04:00

I was just checking out my hits this afternoon and I noticed that Chemopalooza has been ranked number 17 of the Top 50 Cancer Sites & Resources by the Asbestos News Cancer Blog.

Check out the list, it's pretty comprehensive!

XO

Tick, Tock...Flag Day Is Approaching!

2009-06-04T19:02:00.003-04:00

Flag Day is approaching folks. And what exactly does that mean, you ask? Well it means the two-year chemoversary! It's June 14 so mark your calendars! Also, this coming Monday I have my six-month PET scan. Please make sure to cross everything you own and think happy thoughts for good news. I think I'm going to finally pop open that bottle of pink champagne that Wullie and Veronica got me :)

As for other news, I've had a job interview finally. Well, really a pre-interview with a recruiter, but still it went well. It's a move in the right direction. I'll post more when I know more, it's a "confidential search" right now, but it's not cancer-related incase you're wondering. Anywho, I'm hoping to find something in the next couple months.

Anywho, that's all I've got for now! Stay tuned and think clean thoughts!

XO

Hospitals Using New Marketing Methods To Attract New Patients

2009-05-27T13:25:00.003-04:00

Imagine if your hospital planned on capitalizing on your brain tumor surgery by filming it and broadcasting it on the web -- and oh yeah, advertising about it showing someone better looking than you in the ad. It's happening, hospitals are trying to stand out by utilizing Twitter, YouTube, Facebook, blogs and other crazy marketing tactics to get new patients and increase revenue. You can read all about it in this New York Times article that came out last week by clicking here.

13 Year Old Boy Returned For Treatment of Hodgkin's

2009-05-25T23:33:00.003-04:00

Thirteen year old Daniel Hauser was returned to Minnesota to receive treatment for Hodgkin's Lymphoma. The boy had received one round of treatment and then they stopped citing religious beliefs and started "natural healing practices inspired by American Indians."

Most people talk about Hodgkin's Lymphoma as the "Good Cancer," and sometimes I agree. Obviously, I'm still here, and know lots of folks that have beat it... but I also know several that lost their battle against the beast. So it's tough for me hear people talk about it so lightly like it's just like getting a bad haircut. I even know someone that has beat it, years before me, that talks about it as if it's no big deal, even to people she might meet that have been newly diagnosed with cancer. Tact.

Anywho, back on topic here, this poor 13 year old boy has a 5% chance of surviving without treatment according to the doctors in the article. Thankfully, he's back and being ordered to get medical treatment. I'm sure the mother just thought it was somehow in the boy's best interest, perhaps she was concerned with his side effects and freaked and played the religion card. Who knows. And if that's the case, there are always more drugs out there to try to feel better. Prescribed ones :)

You can read more about the story here.

Let's all hope this boy can beat the Hodge now that he has the right medical care.

XO

Comfort in the Past

2009-05-21T23:57:00.002-04:00

I know people say you're supposed to live in the present but I often find such strong comfort in the past. I went to my friend Paul's wedding this weekend, we went to high school together and the wedding was a mini high school reunion which should make most people freak out a bit -- and okay, okay, I did a little but mostly I was completely at ease. It's weird and comforting to see people that knew me when I didn't have a care in the world, and when I was umm skinny and hot (ha ha) and when you have small talk it's not all superficial stuff about jobs and being all important. We all just kinda picked up where we left off -- or at least I did. I doubt if I grew up somewhere fancy that it would be the same situation, but being surrounded by normal, average people that didn't grow up with money or anything was very, well comforting.

Oh and bad news. The green dress didn't arrive in time. But I got it a few days later and it's beautiful... so it's still a keeper! I also got the new Wii Active game and tried it out for the first time yesterday and my entire body is sore, so that's a bonus :)

All for now!

XO

Slacking, Dresses, and Hunting - Oh My!

2009-05-13T18:55:00.003-04:00

I'm a Chemopalooza slacker. I just really haven't had much stuff to write about that's worthy of posting.

This weekend I'm heading to an old high school friends wedding, and *hopefully* will get a really pretty dress in the mail before it! One of my biggest annoyances is dress shopping. Okay, I get it, I'm not a size 6, but I'm also not a size 28! I still want to look good and shouldn't have to have someone make me one from scratch just so it comes in my size. After a long day of shopping last Sunday I came home empty handed. I finally did a little internet hunting and sure enough found a few dresses I liked online in my size! It's a big of a crapshoot if it'll make it in time and I have an alternative dress to wear if needed, but I'm excited I could find something online. Here's a picture I found of it online, it's really small because it was all I could find. I must have bought the last one :)

Other than that I've just been trying to get back into full-time job hunting and staying busy. As of now, it doesn't seem that my freelance gig is working out. They've put me on hold until they put together a marketing plan and budget. I really need organization and stability so I'm not thinking it's going to work out, but we'll see. I'm also trying to really figure out what exactly I want to do for a career. Big task, I know. But that's what I've been up to lately.

Post-Chemo Hair

2009-04-30T16:07:00.005-04:00

Helllllo my cancer pals! I just got my hair colored a few days ago -- it's my usual routine every 4-5 weeks since chemo. Before chemo, I liked to color it, but I didn't have to. It's now all sorts of weird colors, including a spot in the front where white is growing in. It's also pretty light on my hairline, almost blonde. It was light in the front for a while, not gray, just light brown/blondish.

But now I've been coloring it post-chemo for about a year and a half. It's starting to really look like my old hair, except for the fact that I have to color it AND that the color doesn't stick to it. My hairdresser has to use the darkest dye before black in order for it to stick, and now that's not even sticking!

I know, I know! At least I have hair and it's nice and shiny from the hair color... just not at my roots! I just want to know if anyone else has experienced this?

Thanks!!

Back From BI

2009-04-29T10:43:00.002-04:00

I'm back from a weekend on Block Island. It was just what I needed. It's been freakishly hot here for April -- in the 90s, and going to there where it's much cooler was perfect. A lil fresh air with my dog and family. We even took him for a walk on the beach and it was perfect there! We took some pictures but they're on my mom's camera, so I'll post them another time.

Anywho, just wanted to post an update that I basically don't have anything to write about at the moment but just got back from a mini vaca. I'm planning on going there again soon for like a week or so, might as well since I can work from wherever :)

XO

It's Never Enough

2009-04-23T22:46:00.003-04:00

Ever feel like you're terrible for being a survivor? Like some organizations look down on you for not eating, sleeping and breathing cancer now that you're a survivor? For not knowing everything happening with every organization? Sometimes that's how I feel. And let's face it, if you know me, you know I do a LOT for the cancer community. But if it's not the Kool-Aid everyone else is drinking sometimes you get snubbed.

Here's a short list of the things I do:

- I volunteer at local hospital in the oncology unit and resource room helping newly diagnosed cancer patients learn the resources available to them. I sit and talk to the lonely people and make sure they have someone to talk to and put a smile on their faces.
- I help out The American Cancer Society in their communications department. I write up stories about cancer survivors and people fundraising for events.
- I was volunteering until recently at the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society doing PR for them as well.
- I keep Chemopalooza.com active so that people searching for resources can find them here. And believe me, they do.
- I respond to several current cancer patients each month that find my blog and seek support and encouragement.
- I allow college students working on research, writers working on stories/books, to interview me so that care can get better for future cancer patients and so people can learn they are not alone.

And this is just a short list of the things I do, for FREE, for the cancer community. Yet, sometimes people act like it's just not enough. Well, I think it is!

XO

Finally Updated My Blog Links

2009-04-23T02:19:00.002-04:00

So it only took about 2 years, but I finally updated my list of blogs that I frequent. Is your blog not on there and:

A) You think it should be
B) It's interesting or helpful to cancer patients
C) We're cancer pals and I forgot you (whoops!)

If so, let me know and I'll do my best to update the list again.

XO

Tired Is An Understatement

2009-04-19T02:46:00.005-04:00

I've been kinda loopy lately. I've been needing lots of naps this week and then my sleep schedule gets all screwed up. I've got an appointment to see my PCP soon and we're going to do some blood work I've been putting off for some time. I'm also thinking I've developed a delayed version of neuropathy. I've been noticing it getting worse over the past month or so. My arms and legs have been falling asleep very easily, especially when I'm sleeping. I wake up and my arm is entirely numb. I'm also having weird stuff going on with my feet. They feel kinda swollen at all times. So then I get Googling on these newly found side effects and I come up with either neuropathy (which makes sense) or diabetes (not cool). Bleh. I need to get active. More active. But I like naps so damn much. Hopefully this will all be determined and I'll get back to normal soon. Oh and my attention span is exceptionally low these days. Dammit.

I feel like I'm missing something in my life and need to find it. Bold statement, but I think that would help.

Guest Blog Post - Think, Question and Shout When You Need To

2009-04-16T20:56:00.006-04:00

Hi All - I'm not typically a guest-blog-post-welcoming-kinda-lady but I really wanted to share a guest post from Kairol Rosenthal who has more tips and tricks in her big toe than your hospital does in its entire social worker staff. So without further ado.... enjoy!

XOThink, Question and Shout When You Need To

By Kairol Rosenthal

Kelly saw me get all fired up about my underground cancer resources when I was giving a speech at the I’m Too Young for This Conference in Boston and she asked me to write a bit more about it on her blog.

When it comes to getting what I want in the cancer world I have no shame. What could be more important than stealthy thinking and pushing the limits in order to try to save my life? I’m big into being crafty, leaving no stone unturned, and taking advantage of every free resource that is out there.

I want to share with you a little snippet from my book Everything Changes: The Insider’s Guide to Cancer in Your 20s and 30s, to show you just what I mean. When I was diagnosed with cancer, I had no health insurance, and fought aggressively for it on my own. But once I got insurance, I still had tons of expenses and paperwork to deal with:

“Through a long process of hard, desperate phone calling, I found Nicola, whom I referred to as my personal goddess of health law. She was a law student who took me on as a school project. Because I was her only “client,” she devoted lots of attention to me. We were the same age, and it put me at ease to talk about these overwhelming administrative issues with someone who was approachable and did not scoff at my naiveté. She wanted to succeed in fighting for every benefit she could find for me. She filled out all of my paperwork when the side effects of my meds made my head spin too hard to concentrate. She accompanied me and spoke for me at my Social Security interview. She made the mysterious and intimidating healthcare system approachable and surmountable. She helped me organize my medical records and legal documents. She appealed for an eighteen-month extension of my COBRA benefits and won. She discovered that the State of California owed me money for disability that I had not known I was entitled to. I cried the day that she brought me a $9,000 check, which without her help would have sat in the state’s coffers instead of in my bank account. The money paid for my rent and groceries for an entire year.”

My motto is “Think, question, and shout when you need to!” I believe that sometimes we all need someone to shout with us and for us. I worked my butt off finding the resources that saved me time and money during my cancer care and figured, why should every young adult cancer survivor have to keep reinventing the wheel? So, I wrote my book, which just hit the shelves. If you want to pick up a copy it is available on Amazon and everywhere books are sold.

In my book I include instructions on how you can find a Nicola of your own. For a sneak peak at this and other health insurance and financial guidance tips, go to my website and download for free the first chapter of my book “Ramenonics”, which covers these topics in the resource section: www.everythingchangesbook.com

Have you ever used another person or organization to help with your health insurance or financial matters? What is the craftiest thing you have ever done to advocate for your care or get what you need from a doctor, nurse, or insurance company? I call cancer an emotional, physical, and administrative experience. Do you agree?

Vegas Cancer Patients Receiving Death Sentence

2009-04-09T23:14:00.006-04:00

Last week 60 Minutes featured a story about the Las Vegas public hospital, University Medical Center, basically giving the less fortunate locals a death sentence if they're facing cancer without adequate insurance. The hospital informed it's chemotherapy patients that they were closing it's oncology unit for all outpatient services. You can read more about this story and watch the 60 Minutes clip by clicking here. Stupid recession.

XO

I'm Still Too Young For This

2009-04-05T00:06:00.009-04:00

Today was the "I'm Too Young For This" Symposium in Boston -- not to be confused with the i2y organization based in New York. If you've been with my blog for it's existence, or read most of it, you might remember me blogging about going to this symposium 2 years ago (wow!) when I was going thru treatment for the hodge. It was my first chance to meet people my age, battling the same beast I was--cancer, as a young adult.

Going this year and going 2 years ago was quite different for many reasons. My main one was before I really didn't know any cancer folks. I didn't know anything of this business, was losing my hair, puffy from steroids and well just not feeling up to all the networking even though that's what I went for. I didn't know soul in the conference then either - and learned that many people brought loved ones, and had I known then, I would have brought a cancer wingman -- who knew I needed one!? You would think the cancer card would suffice.

But 2 years later it was much more different. My blog has lead me to meet many people I wouldn't have otherwise met -- in person or just via the interweb. I've found myself much more. I have a broad network of cancer folks, of every diagnosis and background, and of course my strong group of fellow Hodgers.

At the conference this year, I had a slight agenda -- meet more people, learn more about advocacy and of course network, network, network. Afterall, cancer advocacy is something I've been looking into in my soul searching expedition this year. I'm starting to already see the major gaps in the large non-profit organizations and it makes me want to re-evaluate some things and learn more about process, where their money goes, how they actually help people like me, not only women with breast cancer (no offense ladies, I know it's important) or help people quit smoking but not spend money on lung cancer research. But I digress... me + running around all day = lots of tangents.

Anywho, it was great to freely network, learn more at the event. Realize that there are other people out in the community doing great things that aren't necessarily attached to a giant non-profit brainwashing community. People that are really interested in helping, for what they believe in!

I also got to meet Kairol Rosenthal, author of the book Everything Changes. She's a Chemopalooza reader, which is always the biggest form of flattery this girl can get. She is also an amazing public speaker and provided the opening keynote speech at the event. It hit home to so many people in the audience. They were all raising their hands with questions about what she had seen during her 5 years of putting together her book, as well as own personal cancer survival tactics. She's tapped into networks and resources I've never even thought or knew of. We actually discussed doing a blog switch and being guest posters on each other's blogs. I had no idea at the time what either one of us could do, but now I think I have a few more ideas on what she could discuss here. Let me try and read her book (and I have no attention span for full books, so we'll see) but I think perhaps something about navigating thru the healthcare system and becoming your own advocate might be a good broad topic for her -- stay tuned. Oh and I'm open to suggestions on what I should write for her blog, I'm more of a jack of all trades, master of nothing kinda cancer lady, so any suggestions would be appreciated.

Anywho, I've got some networking to-do's, some personal writing to-do's and some more learning to do. But what a difference two years ago makes...actually now that I think about this, I actually remember that I took this picture the day of the conference to gauge my hair loss...

Puffy-faced, thinned eyebrows, but still shiny locks! I washed my hair for the occasion, which was a HUGE deal :)

Ahh the infamous thinning part

And me on Thursday posing for a picture I was sending to Veronica of my fancy shiny locks... my brows are unfortunately still a bit thin and not anywhere near as dark as they were before, but I'll take 'em for now :)

Anywho, that's all for now. I'm sure I have a bunch of stuff I forgot to post, but it's 1am and I'm sleepy and I need to wake up before noon tomorrow because I'm treating myself to a massage and a facial tomorrow.

Two Cases of Children's Death of Lymphoma Due To Parental Neglegence

2009-04-01T01:03:00.004-04:00

Today I heard the second story in less than a month of a child's death due to Lymphoma -- one of the most treatable cancers -- because of their parents selfishness and lack of medical attention and care.

The first case was of 8 year old Willie Robinson of Ohio who had been diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma not by his family doctor or local oncologist, but by his coroner. He had never been taken to the hospital or doctors for a diagnosis. According to his aunt in an article she had begged his family to take him to seek medical attention. The boy was pale and covered with lumps showing the state of his cancer progression. Even the boy knew something was wrong and he had begged and pleaded to be taken to the doctor since he couldn't even find the energy to climb up the stairs in his house. Willie's parents were indicted on charges of involuntary manslaughter, child endangering and felonious assault, according to court documents.

The second case was in Boston and a 9 year old Autistic boy died of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma on Monday. The cause of death -- cancer and lack of medical attention. The mother had missed or canceled many of his chemotherapy appointments and most of his prescriptions went unfilled. The boys cancer progressed into Leukemia before he passed away. The mother is awaiting trial and currently only being charged with child endangerment.

This news is just so painful to read. It makes one wonder if the costs of medical attention were to blame for their children not getting treated. Of course, that's still not an excuse since there are free clinics and even hospitals that will take people without insurance. Heck, even if you just rack up tons of debt, at least their children would be alive to see their 10th birthdays.

XO

Another Kelly Update - Running on Adrenaline and Lack of Sleep Edition

2009-03-29T06:47:00.002-04:00

Sorry for the lack of updates this past week. I've been running on adrenaline and lack of sleep a bit. But for me keeping busy is always a very good thing.

A few of you have asked how the job hunt is going... well, it looks like I'm going to be starting a contract gig for a while to help out a start-up insurance company that could be a very cool opportunity. I can do the majority of the work from my apartment and it could turn into something bigger down the road. I'm just waiting to get a few things finalized before I get started on the project -- most likely later this week. AND how funny, but the guy I'm working for found me thru my profile on LinkedIn and then Googled me and found Chemopalooza.com and then emailed me! I guess Internet networking and blogging can actually pay off... well, let me hold off on that until I get my first pay check :)

I also just finished up level 3 in my improv class... only 3 levels to go! I think I have a 2 week break before the next class starts, and I'm actually excited for the break because I've been running around like a lunatic! It's sad though, one of my improv class pals won't be able to go on to level 4 with us because he's getting deployed to Iraq in this summer :( Poor guy, I've known him since my first class this fall.

I also went to a pseduo high school reunion this weekend. It was really an old friends Jack N Jill party, but literally almost everyone I was friends with in high school was there. Most of them I hadn't seen in almost 10 years. And many of them married with several kids! Even ex-boyfriends! But it was a great time and I'm really glad I went... it was kinda energizing.

Anywho, that's all the stories I have for now. I'll find some cancer news and post next week.

XO

Chemopalooza Ranked On List of Top 30 Inspirational Cancer Blogs

2009-03-29T06:33:00.004-04:00

Some good news! Chemopalooza has been ranked number 18 on a list of the Top 30 Inspirational Cancer Survivor Blogs by the MRI Tech blog. What an honor to say the least. Not gonna lie, it brought a few secret tears to my eyes when I found the email. And it's so funny to know that I know about half of the folks listed on this thing. Also, for Lymphoma being a more rare cancer, especially Hodgkin's, it's hilarious that there are so many influential hodgers on this list -- even more if you just classify it as blood cancers and add Leukemia's. Makes me think... was it because we're not a "cool enough" cancer to provide support to that we had to do it all ourselves?

Either way, thanks for including me in the ranking and be sure to check out the list, many of my pals on it :)

What's Next After Cancer Treatment Ends?

2009-03-17T22:21:00.005-04:00

You run the race. Finally cross that finish line.

Now what?

I came across this press release last week regarding a roundtable discussion at the NCCN 14th Annual Conference discussing treatment for cancer survivors. Doctors typically tend to focus their efforts on curing the cancer but often forget about the aftermath. I know many survivors amp themselves up for treatment, count down the days to end of chemo or radiation and then what? They run out of steam. Everyone isn't rooting for them anymore. Their support system and routine is shattered. They're alone even though they still don't feel or look like themselves and still have a long road ahead.

Continuing proper follow up and support to survivors is hopefully going to become an area of focus for oncologists. Yes, fighting cancer and the side effects from chemo and radiation are very important, but so is the aftermath of cancer. Rebuilding their lives and finding their new "me" is equally as hard as chemo and popping into the oncologists office every 3-6 months for a PET scan doesn't answer all their questions and help them.

Personally, I built a support group of cancer patients going thru treatment at the same time as I was, so that helped tremendously. But not everyone has that group of people, and damnit, I had to work hard to find them all on my own without the help of my doctors and social workers.

Thoughts?

Spring Shopping and Kelly Updates

2009-03-15T22:32:00.004-04:00

Well I hope you all got a chance to get some bargains this weekend and use the Gap coupon to benefit the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society; I sure did. I decided to hit up the Gap Outlet since I shouldn't really be shopping anyways and man, I stocked up on spring shirts! I got about 8 shirts and a pair of dress pants for under $140, not bad. And most of them are dressy-ish, so when I do finally land a job I'll be prepared :)

I thought I'd give a little me update since I've been classing up the blog these days. From time to time, I'll still post me updates, but I'm also going to try and add more cancer news or views (suggestions are welcome). Since I want to work with a cancer organization I'm working on honing my skills and keeping up-to-date with the news.

I've recently started volunteering at the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society since I feel I'd be a great asset to them and this organization actually benefits me. I just started last week, but I already feel like I made a great decision. I've got a big PR project ahead of me in the coming weeks and I'm really excited about it.

Anywho, that's really the latest and greatest. I'm keeping busy, trying to figure out what I want to do, and helping people :) Hope you're all well!

XO

How Efficient Are The Charities You Donate To?

2009-03-08T21:52:00.005-04:00

With the economy in shambles and people holding their purse strings tighter, it's helpful to know where your money goes if you decide to donate to a struggling non-profit. I recently found this Website called Charity Navigator, which is amazing -- and equally frightening.

Why frightening? You can find out the salaries of non-profit CEOs -- and they're staggering.

The Website ranks charities on several categories to provide you with an overall score of zero stars to 4 stars. The site shows how the charity spends its money - how much of it's yearly revenue goes to funding programs, administrative costs, fundraising costs, and of course how much money they pull in each year. It's very refreshing since most people support charities based on how they're marketed and what celebrities endorse them.

So before you donate to your favorite charity, check 'em out and see how well they're managing their money.

XO

New Spring Clothes Can Benefit LLS

2009-02-26T22:49:00.005-05:00

I was just perusing the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's Website looking to see if they have posted any exciting news and of course, a job for me. While I didn't come across a job - just yet at least - I did learn that Gap, Inc. is offering 30% off coupons to LLS supporters to be used on March 12-15 with 5% of each sale benefiting LLS.

Who doesn't want some new, discounted, cheerful spring clothes AND to benefit cancer patients!?

To print your coupon and get 30% off at Gap, Banana Republic and Old Navy click here

Ironworkers Show Compassion For Cancer Patients

2009-02-22T23:44:00.004-05:00

Yesterday's Boston Globe featured a heartwarming story about ironworkers spray painting the names of young cancer patients on the steel beams of the new Yawkey Center for Cancer Care. You can read the article and watch the video by clicking here. I'm sure these ironworkers made the their days much brighter!

Just another reason that I want to work for Dana Farber.

Cancer Survivors Struggle to Find Jobs

2009-02-18T21:42:00.005-05:00

I've been feeling a bit stressed about my job hunt these days. Companies are cutting positions to part-time, not providing benefits, and all the jobs I really want seem to be very competitive. This week, I tried the snail mail approach to sending out my resume. We'll see if that helps me get some interviews at least. Also, next week I'll start officially escorting cancer patients to their first chemotherapy treatments at Lahey Clinic. I'll be going over the resources made available to them via the American Cancer Society and hopefully helping to brighten their day and relax them a bit before such a stressful time. I'm looking forward to it!

I'm also planning on attending a non-profit job fair next week which will hopefully provide some networking and potential job leads.

Today I was checking out the New York Times on my iPod and read an interesting article about how cancer survivors find it harder to land jobs post-treatment. Check it out my fellow cancer pals, it was very enlightening especially as more and more young adults are getting cancer, employers just don't know how to react.

I'm going to start flagging more cancer news for you folks, so stay tuned and keep checking in.

XO

Wellness Community Donations at Whole Foods

2009-02-14T02:09:00.005-05:00

I was at Whole Foods this week getting some fancy dinner ingredients and found out that they are accepting donations for the Wellness Community when you check out. It was great to see a fellow business trying to gather support for the troubled organization.

Soooo next time you're at Whole Foods paying for your over-priced food, perhaps you could make a $2 donation as well :)

Look Good...Feel Better Volunteering

2009-02-10T23:20:00.006-05:00

Today was the first Look Good...Feel Better session that I was an active volunteer for and I loved it! It was so fun to help the five women look and feel their best, and share some insight from the things I learned. I was just as excited for them when they were going through their bags as I would be if it were my own goody bag!

I'm looking forward to next month's event!

Stay tuned!

XO

The Boston Wellness Community Closes Its Doors Due To The Economy

2009-02-05T18:07:00.004-05:00

Bad news local cancer friends, the Boston regional office of the Wellness Community closed its doors this week due to lack of funding. According to this article they were the first non-profit in the Boston area to have to close its doors due to the economy. It's such a bummer, they had a beautiful space that was very relaxing and comfortable. They even offered free classes and even exercise for cancer patients, survivors and family members.

Although this place didn't really serve as the best support for me and my age group, it was definitely a ray of hope for older folks facing cancer. I even did a blog training there last January...wow what a change in the last year!

Now that I think about it, I know why I haven't been getting the bi-monthly mailings from them. What a shame. Let's hope for everyone else's sake no other non-profits have to close down, and of course being slightly selfish let's hope the economy gets a boost so I can get a job!

XO

Let's Network!

2009-02-02T20:29:00.002-05:00

Unfortunately I don't have much to report these days. I've been job hunting really hard lately but so far no real leads. Soooo if you are or know anyone in the healthcare or non-profit industry (especially if it's cancer-related) please email me and I'd be happy to send you my resume or buy you a cup of coffee and pick your brain. I'm ideally looking for a position in communications, PR or fundraising.... please keep your eyes out for me folks. Oh and if you're on LinkedIn and we're not friends, add me!

That's all for now. I'll post more updates soon, promise!

XO

ChemoBrain

2009-01-17T18:45:00.008-05:00

I feel like I have so much to post, but umm forgot it all. Actually...that's a good segue into updating you that the book ChemoBrain by Boston Globe managing editor Ellen Clegg is finally available for purchase, and you get to read a few pages about me which is super awesome. I'm expecting some copies in the mail from Ellen, but for now I know at least my pal Duane in NYC and myself are included in the book. We're hodgetastically famous - er um something :) You can purchase the book here, and you can read more about the book on this blog. Ellen is a terrific writer and made me sound so optimistic and cheerful, even more than I see myself, which is kinda cool. It's great proof to me that I made the best out of such a crappy situation and have come a long way.

Just today someone left a comment that they stumbled across my blog while searching for info about Hodgkin's. After looking at my blog a bit, she realized that we actually knew each other in college - talk about a small world! It makes me happy to know folks can get some reassurance about the hodge when they find my blog. I suppose at some point I should create a post hodge blog, but I'm not there yet and I feel like I would just stop posting all together... and honestly, this is still therapeutic for me. And since I'm uuber forgetful, it does help me remember some stuff :)

Hmm... what else? Well I found out (as expected) that I didn't make the Improv House Teams, but I wasn't awful, so hopefully next time I try out I'm make it. My friend Ben from class tried out with me, and I probably wouldn't have done it without him there. Actually, we both didn't make it. Sooo hopefully we can get better together and move onto the teams after they have tryouts next time.

Also while I'm writing about my improv class - I thought I should share a funny story. When I started taking my class I couldn't stop laughing in the middle of scenes, and the worst part was, I didn't even realize I was doing it. When I got to level 2, my teacher asked me what the hell was wrong with me... and then all of a sudden, I stopped laughing! At our last class he said, "Wow it's been a long time since someone laughed in the middle of a scene, right Kelly?" And then I made him give me an "award" for it.... When I told my mom about it, all I could think of was when I was learning how to swim as a kid. I couldn't swim in the middle of the pool because I'd start laughing and then start drowning, so I had to stay near the walls until I could calm down and stop laughing... oh good times :)

Oh and lastly, I also got my iPod Touch. It's so awesome and fancy and it really is the poor man's iPhone as I wrote before. It's actually part of the reason I haven't updated my blog for a while, I really haven't turned on my computer much since I got it. I also have a feeling my dad is going to jump on the bandwagon and get one at some point now that he's learned it's awesomeness.

Anywho, that's all I got for now. Hope you're all staying warm!

My Horoscope Says 2009 Is My Year

2009-01-04T23:15:00.002-05:00

I haven't been posting lately. Not much to post. The holidays were low-key and I'm glad they're finally over. As always, my dog opening his Christmas presents were the highlight of my holiday. I'll post a video at some point so you can share in my insanity.

I've still been doing the improv stuff. Level 2 actually ends next Saturday and since I already purchased level 3, I'm going to start that in a few weeks. It'll be weird because I'll have a lull between classes for the first time since September. I even checked out ImprovBoston finally this weekend. I saw some of the folks from there during the 24 hour show and thought it was time to see the other popular Improv place :)

During my visit to ImprovBoston, I also found out that they have a stand-up comedy class. I think I need to take it. I looked online and it's already full for the next term, so maybe I'll try in the spring. Oh and I'm planning on trying out for the Improv Asylum House Teams on Tuesday. It's kinda a last minute decision to try out. I don't really think I'll make it, but I figure if I do it would be really cool. Cross your fingers if you want on Tuesday... but don't be surprised if I don't make it because it's really competitive but hey it's worth a shot! And another guy from my class is doing it too, so I won't be the only one.

I went to visit my family for the New Year and it was actually a relaxing visit (my brother wasn't around). It gets so stressful when I visit my family and it just becomes constant drama with my crazy brother. Me and my dad even went and returned my old iPod from 2004 (it was on an unlimited return warranty) and I'm pretty sure I'm going to get an iPod Touch 16GB. I got enough money from my return that it'll actually be the same price, but unfortunately they were out of stock. I was looking online and I read that it's basically the "poor man's" iPhone. Sounds good to me because I don't want to pay the crazy monthly fee for the iPhone and it just looks so fancy! Okay while I was typing this, I looked up the monthly cost of the iPhone, and actually, it's not that bad. The minimum is $70 a month and I get a discount from my mom's work on my plan, so it actually wouldn't be awful. Still more than I'm paying now. Ahh decisions, decisions! I think I'll probably just get the iTouch for now. Okay, I'm done rambling.

I hope you all had a great holiday season and New Year. I have a feeling this year is going to be a good one. According to my horoscope, I'm right.

XO

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-23T20:41:00.003-05:00

I hope you all have a fabulous Christmas and a healthy 2009!

XOXO

Cancer Resources: Financial Aid, Co-Pay Assistance

2008-12-17T20:30:00.007-05:00

One thing I'm thankful for was having great health care when I was diagnosed with cancer. Some people aren't so lucky... or they have health insurance, but can't work and bills pile up and it just adds to the already mounting stress. Another thing most of us hodgers know, a lot of folks get diagnosed this time of year. I'm not sure why, but it's very common... Personally, I was diagnosed a few days from now, two years ago (December 21, 2006).

With all of that in mind, I wanted to compile some resources for people to find support when the going gets tough... now please bear in mind, this isn't everything and any additions are welcomed and will updated to this post.

Leukemia & Lymphoma Society offers financial aid as well as a co-pay assistance program. To learn more about it click here.

CancerCare also offers co-pay assistance and financial aid. To learn more, click here.

Also, the American Cancer Society Website has a very comprehensive list of resources and financial aid options. To learn more, click here.

If you're a young adult, you should check out I'm Too Young For This, they have several options for financial aid on their Website. To learn more, click here.

Please be sure to check with your social worker. And if you don't have one, ask your oncologist or your nurse for one. They can help you learn more about local resources. Some hospitals might have charities designated especially for their patients. Also, you never know if there are high school or college students willing to volunteer and help your family, or even your local church members.

The more you ask, the more you know.

XO

Immune Boosters and Lymph Flow

2008-12-16T21:56:00.004-05:00

I'm starting to feel much better, thanks for the comments and sicky prevention ideas. I had to get a TB test yesterday (for volunteering at a hospital) and the nurse practitioner told me to go get some Robitussin DM for my cough and it worked wonders! The taste does leave something to be desired though - bleh.

I actually heard a wacky idea on the lymphoma board, and after some Googling, I have to say I'm intrigued and might purchase a mini trampoline... I know, it sounds so silly. But I found on several Websites that rebounding on a mini trampoline can actually improve your immune system as well as lymphatic flow... According to this Website:

"Almost anything which can stimulate the movement of lymph fluid inside the lymph vessels is beneficial, but the most efficient way to stimulate the flow of lymph fluid is by rebounding on a mini-trampoline. The up and down rhythmic bouncing causes all of the one-way valves to open and close simultaneously, increasing lymph flow as much as 15 times. Rebounding is a highly beneficial form of exercise."

Sooo as hippy-tastic as it sounds, I'm looking into trying one out. They're actually pretty expensive, and the online reviews vary quite a bit...I know how I get sick of exercise pretty easy, so I don't want to invest until I know I'll like it... or can return it :)

So that's my latest and greatest for now. I hope you're all doing swell.

Me And My Bum Immune System

2008-12-13T20:12:00.004-05:00

My immune system is shot this year. I was sick about a month ago, and I'm sick AGAIN! I think I have either a cold or the usual sinus infection. I've been sick since mid-week and dammit, I just want to feel better! It brings me back to my cancer days when I couldn't do anything except stay in bed and watch crappy TV. I actually had to force myself to go to class this afternoon. I didn't make a whole lot of sense, but at least I went to do some learnin'.

About a month ago, I bought some Acai stuff at Whole Foods, in hopes that it would help boost my immune system and give me more energy... plus, it tasted delicious. But I'm going to have to say it might have been a gimmick. Does anyone have any suggestions for supplements to boost my sad immune system? Any suggestions are welcomed :)

I can't believe Christmas and New Year's is almost here. I'm all done with my shopping and most of my present wrapping as well... AND I even mailed all of my cards and Veronica and Wullster's package! During another hippy excursion to Whole Foods, I also picked up myself a mini potted Christmas tree! It even came with lights and ornaments! I'm so festive!

Anywho, I'm going to go back to resting.

XO

15 Hours of Improv? Yep!

2008-12-06T23:46:00.003-05:00

Last night I went to a charity event at the Improv Asylum... yep, 24 hours of hilarity. I had plans to stay for the whole thing, but I got antsy at around 11am today and snuck out and had some quality time with my bed. Still, I was one of the very few that stayed as long as I did, which would be a whopping 15.5 hours. Honestly, I probably could have stayed longer, I was by far one of the perkiest folks there, and I'm pretty sure a few people wanted to stab me, but I was just done laughing, and I started to smell like the basement that is the Improv Asylum -- no really, my clothes smelled like musty basement when I got home! I had a blast though, made some new friends, laughed a lot (obviously) and actually donated a chunk of change to buy kids Christmas presents this year by purchasing my next level of improv class that was donated, so all the money went to charity. Usually this time of year I pick out a few presents for needy kids, wrap 'em up and donate them -- which I love -- but this year, with me not working, I didn't know what to do, and honestly don't have a ton of disposable income, but this was a nice way to buy something I would have purchased anyways, and buy lots o' presents! Yay!

Other than that, I haven't been up to too much. I've been super exhausted lately (before staying up more than 24 hours), and I need to get to my PCP to get some blood work done. Even though I'm cancer-free still, I still want to see if something else is making me so sleepy.

I'm also still on my job hunt as well... so far, a whole lotta nothing. I'm also brainstorming some more ideas for stuff to make me enjoy life and have more fun... kinda like my improv class, but something else... just not sure what yet. I'm open to suggestions, as always. I kinda want to travel somewhere, but I'm not sure where, and I really can't afford it, but I want to do something a bit out of character. I wish I could just hippy it up and not worry about things like health insurance and germs... and pit shaving, oh my! :)

Anywho, that's my latest and greatest update for now. Hope you enjoy my new music additions.

XO

Drum Roll Please....

2008-12-01T19:51:00.002-05:00

Presenting....

Kelly Kane, hodge-free girl!!!!!!!!!

Hoooooooray!!!!!!!

XO

Six Months Already!

2008-11-29T21:36:00.003-05:00

I can't believe it's already been 6 months since my last PET scan! I'm going to Dana Farber on Monday for my 6 month scan and oncologist visit. Please think happy thoughts, cross your fingers, eyes, arms and legs and all that jazz for some good news!

XO

5 Hours of Improv, Oh My!

2008-11-23T16:00:00.004-05:00

Yesterday was the first day of my level 2 Improv class, followed by the last day of my level 1 class. It was a long, Improvtastic day. I was pleasantly surprised to find out that 4 guys from level 1 were also in my level 2 class... it made it feel more comfortable :) All of the other folks seemed really funny too. In the beginning of the class we talked about why we were taking the class... I was probably half-way thru the lineup and my answer made so many people's eyes pop out of their sockets! I said that I had cancer about 2 years ago and I'm not as quick anymore and my memory sucks, plus I'm a giant goof... people were shocked, I think because I don't look like a cancer patient at all (hooray!). So anywho, it was a good day, but it was 5 hours of running around and I was exhausted... I was home by 8 and fell asleep on my couch at 9 :)

On Tuesday I'm going to meet up with a woman that runs the Look Good Feel Better program in my area. I might as well get certified to do some volunteer work while I have the time. And who knows, she might be able to introduce me to some folks looking for fabulous people like myself! I'm really looking forward to doing the events and teaching women to feel fabulous while they are fighting cancer. Hopefully it'll be some good karma for myself too... which would be a good added bonus!

No job updates as of yet. This job hunting is a slow, slow process. I'm rolling with the punches, doing some networking, catching up on much needed rest, and trying to figure out what I really want to do with myself.

Anywho, that's all I've got to report for now. I hope you all have a fabulous Thanksgiving this year and don't forget to think about what you're thankful for while you're stuffing your face.

XO

Here's Some Pictures From Louisville

2008-11-18T11:54:00.005-05:00

Sooo I didn't take many pictures since I had Ry Ry and Brian with their fancy cameras.... I'm sure they'll post pictures soon, but for now you can enjoy the petting zoo that we went to on the first day... not your average petting zoo either, animals running around free, Bonnie kicking the fences to get the porcupines to open up, goats as tour guides, and of course alpacas gone wild and almost hitting Jenny and John's cars! There's also a few pictures of me and Darcy... I'll steal some of Ry Ry's when he puts them online.

View Album

Get your own

I'm Home!

2008-11-17T23:35:00.002-05:00

I'm back from Louisville and will post some pictures and updates tomorrow!

XO

Bring On Level 2

2008-11-11T17:42:00.004-05:00

I just signed up for level 2 of my Improv class this afternoon! I'm super excited! I already know that one of my level 1 pals will be in the class with me, so I'm content. I am however, bummed that my current teacher won't be teaching it, but fingers are crossed for someone super hilarious like him.

I'm heading to Kentucky this weekend for Hodge-a-palooza 2. I leave first thing Friday morning and will be there around lunch time. I can't wait! I know Ry Ry has some tricks up his sleeve as well.... and I need to bring my flat iron to straighten his beard (yep, he promised I could months ago!). He did say that it might snow which will be super lame, but we'll suck it up.

Not a ton to report today. I'll post more soon!