CDC Symptom Diary Card

Friday, February 06, 2015

N.E.D. The Movie Event Review

I hope you were able to attend the screening of N.E.D. The Movie yesterday, World Cancer Day.  This heartfelt documentary tells the story of gynecology oncology surgeons, and musicians, who dedicate themselves to educating people about gynecological cancers.  They love their patients and love performing their music, using their venue to raise awareness of ovarian cancer.

As a woman who was told that I was too young to have ovarian cancer, when I actually did have it, I fully appreciated the significance and importance of this movie and their mission.  I think these humble surgeons are amazing people, selfless in their cause.

Dr. Barbara Goff, of UWMC and SCCA in Seattle Washington, spoke after the screening.  She was kind, informative and encouraging.  She spoke of advances in treatment protocols and told us the history of how a small donation led her team to the compilation of important research that supports the symptom checklist that we use today.

Dr. Goff stated that the most important take-away from this event was that the parents of boys and girls need to understand the importance of the HPV vaccination.  The reduction of future cancers is staggering when the vaccine is given.

I thank God every day for my time on earth and pray that more and more people see this documentary. The conversation about cancer is never easy and that is especially true when it comes to women's cancers.  The truth is that all women need to know the basic symptoms of these cancers.

Here is the link to N.E.D. The Movie's storywall:

http://www.nedthemovie.com/story-wall/

Peace and Blessings
Servivorgirl

P.S.   I am in the process of scheduling our special retreat at The OLCC Retreat Center.




Wednesday, January 28, 2015

An Oasis Of Hope and Love: The OLCC Retreat Center

felt love in a way so different than ever before as a result of my recent retreat experience. Complete love in that we are all children of God.  I felt safe. This was the place for me. Father Dan was abundant with love for each of us.  His story-telling and presence made this journey real because he is genuine and shares with sincerity and humor.  Thank you Father Dan.

I arrived in Corpus Christi as a woman in need of healing. Not just physical healing, but spiritual healing.  I love God, I always have. Every day I have said my prayers and counted my blessings. I also have known that my soul is deeply bruised and my goal to leave this earthly life in full peace with God, my family and friends cannot be met unless I do more.

The serene campus’ focal point, a stunning blue dome, sits atop the Our Lady of Corpus Christi chapel. The gold stars on the dome reflect the vision of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Inside this most beautiful mission style church you can view elegant works of art and the Perpetual Adoration chapel. 

I did not need to be concerned with meeting my basic needs, they take care of that for you. Healthy meals, with my dietary needs, were prepared with love. I stayed in a private room with a private bath. They even transported me to and from the airport. These simple luxuries are provided to us so that we concern ourselves only with healing, prayer and growing closer to God.  Our team leader gently and with great care attended to every question and need.  

You are wondering what I accomplished, what did I learn?  Each individual receives their own rewards.  I will share mine, but to see my face and hear what I have to say would be a better reflection as to the depth of this journey.

I feel so much peace and have not stopped humming.  I want to be with peace for others.  In the world of cancer, this alone can change your life. We suffer so much pain, anxiety, and fear and this circulates around us, impacting the ones we love.  Having a deeper sense of peace will bring people closer to us.  It breaks down communication barriers with doctors and helps family and friends feel more at ease with our discomfort. I will have much more strength for when things turn for me.

It was also revealed to me that several things were interfering with my relationship with God. I was relieved of that burden, I am lighter. Moving forward is now easier.

I can see God, Jesus, in others much more clearly. By seeing God in others we are more loving, even in a state of bodily chaos, our hearts can shine.  I have written about this before and have strived to do this, but had not always been successful.  I feel confident that I will remain able to see God in others, even in the worst times.

On my last evening I was adoring the Blessed Virgin Mary.  The church's entryway has a beautiful statue of Our Lady Mother Mary. As I rested in awe of her, I witnessed for a brief second, her eyes look upon me with mercy.  This may sound ridiculous but trust me, it is true.  I trust in her. I trust in God. It was a very special gift given to me, to share with you.

We are not alone in our battle with cancer. God is with us and wants for us to find and keep His love.  For our journey will not end when we leave this earthly life.  He offers us great comfort.

I want for YOU to feel His comfort in any way possible. I hope you know that I am sincere.

I would like you to send me an email if you are interested in attending a custom retreat for women with cancer, ovarian cancer especially.

I am talking with Sister Laudem Gloriae and Father Dan as to the details. I know of one woman who already who wants to attend.

You do not have to be a Catholic. A donation in leiu of a fee is requested but not required. They do not wish for money to be a barrier.

The OLCC Retreat Center offers a place of hope, peace and love.

You are welcome to attend any of the already scheduled retreats, but if you want to go as part of our special group, please email me as soon as possible.

My email address is servivorgirl@gmail.com and put “OLCC Retreat” in the subject line.

Please make sure you are OK to travel with your doctor.  I am happy to reply to your questions as well.

Here is the link to the retreat: http://www.deepprayer.org

Peace and Blessings from Servivorgirl











Friday, January 16, 2015

100,000 VIEWS Thanks To You


I don't even know what to say.  I am very humbled that this little blog has created such a strong interest.  To be honest, I am stunned. This makes me very happy.

I went back and read a post from May of 2012 at a time when I was in carboplatin desensitization treatment.  I was not a happy camper. Today I am here, not in THAT condition, but much healthier and much happier.

I have no real executive plan or outline as to the content for my blog.

I write about what is important at the moment because that is how life with cancer or any other severe illness runs.  Often times we just live the best we can moment by moment and every plan has a "plan B".

I thank God for all the loving people in my life and I pray for your health and happiness.

Thank you for following along beside me for without you I would not be here.

Peace and Blessings,
Servivorgirl