How do you Fight this Fierce Battle?

For Diane Ronnau, veteran Producer at CBS news, she faced her pancreatic cancer battle with grit, humor and a healthy dose of balance and perspective.

She passed away last weekend, July 23rd, 2022, after facing down her cancer for 16 years. 

Much too soon. 

She left us a gift in her living... a road map of sorts as we all face our own chaos... in this fiercest of battles, she refused to be defined by cancer, rather she let family and love be the ultimate reward.

In 2007 she shared her thoughts with Sandra Hughes:

"The truth is sometimes you do things because you have to do them.  I am sick, but I also have responsibilities.  I have a family, I have work, I have to do those things.  As much as I was extremely worried by being sick, I also wanted to participate in the rest of my life that I am very attached to."

The tributes have poured in... she was loved by many.  In her line of work, words are currency.  And these words speak to the life she lived and the people she touched.

We are richer for the life she lived.

When words escape us... may love speak the cries of our heart.

What if We Could Starve Pancreatic Cancer to Death?

 Is it possible?  Could there be a way to starve pancreatic cancer cells to death?

There might be!

Enter a new study from Columbia University. It is shedding light on a compound in development that might starve pancreatic cancer tumors of an amino acid that is critical to their survival.

The amino acid they're talking about is called cysteine.  All of our cells need small amounts of cysteine to survive.  But cancer cells seem to be completely dependent on importing large amounts of cysteine into the tumors to grow.  

Researchers at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center are currently developing an experimental drug that breaks down cysteine in the blood.  It is called cysteinase. Ironically, this compound is being developed for the treatment of a rare kidney disease called cystinuria.  Scientists formed the bridge to pancreatic cancer when it was discovered that cysteine was also critical to the survival of these cancer cells.

In trials, when cysteinase was added to human pancreatic cancer cells in tissue culture, the cancer cells died.

Yay!  Moving on to trials in mice... when the gene that controls cysteine import was knocked out by the cysteinase in the mice, the cancer's supply of cysteine was cut off and the tumors stopped growing. Double Yay!

* Side note:  have you ever wondered how they find mice with pancreatic cancer?  Me too! Like, how do they know that the mice have pancreatic cancer so they can use them in the trial?  Well, click here for the long version.  But in a nut shell, these mice are genetically engineered mice.  They carry mutations in their genes that mimic specific human diseases.  The drawback is that they are not always precise or reliable in predicting a human response.  Still... when a drug has success in a trial with mice, it is often moved on to clinical trials for us.  And that is an important step.  So thank you, all you genetically engineered mice for your service!

Back to cysteinase.  A team from Columbia, headed by Dr. Kenneth P. Olive, is waiting on the development of cysteinase so that they can begin testing it in pancreatic cancer trials.

Dr. Kenneth P. Olive

"We're very encouraged by these results {thus far}," says Dr. Olive. 

And one of the most exciting aspects according to the team is that the cysteine action against the cancer cells did not appear to harm the healthy, normal cells.

Dr. Olive explained, "You might imagine that all the cells of your body need every amino acid equally, but we knew from prior studies that most normal cells need only very low levels of cysteine.  Our whole goal in targeting this difference between normal cells and cancer cells is to develop a treatment that is toxic to cancer and gentle on the rest of the body."

And we're up against the clock.  Pancreatic cancer is a ferocious opponent.

"Pancreatic cancer is a uniquely lethal disease, with an average survival rate of just six  months after diagnosis."

Dr. Olive underscores the urgency,

"We're in desperate need of new treatments."

I am so thankful for Doctors like Dr. Olive, who is dedicated to finding a cure for pancreatic cancer. We are deeply grateful they are in the trenches with us... never giving up and fighting hard for treatments that will put an end to the nightmare of a pancreatic cancer diagnosis.

And that is good news for today.

Prayers for Hope to carry you along this journey... you are never alone.

My Love, 
      Always,
                   Jane

Wearing Purple Proudly This Day...

 because today is World Pancreatic Cancer Day!

Join us today...

Let's
Turn the World Purple
to raise awareness for Pancreatic Cancer!

We can make a difference when we join our resources together
and fight as one!

And that begins with knowing the signs and symptoms of pancreatic cancer...

The World Pancreatic Cancer Coalition has gathered over 80 organizations in a global initiative to raise awareness, share knowledge, and unify their collective voices to end pancreatic cancer.

Join us today for World Pancreatic Cancer Day to make a Difference...

Whether you wear purple to spark a conversation, help fund research for new treatments, or share the knowledge you have learned about early detection, it's about time we stand up and make a difference...

Because Every. Moment. Matters.

My Love,
Always,
    Jane

The Fight Continues...

 Pancreatic Cancer is no respecter of persons...

It does not matter your social rank, your wealth, your knowledge... Pancreatic Cancer is a ravenous malignancy leaving trails of destruction, distress and suffering in its wake.

This week past we saw the trail of metastatic pancreatic cancer lead to the passing of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg.

The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network shared the following on their website shortly after news of her passing:

"The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PANCAN) is determined to continue fighting for progress for patients so that more people have a chance at longer survival.

'Justic Ginsburg's death is tragic, and it is yet another push for PanCAN to continue fighting for more research and better treatment options for all patients,' said PanCAN President and CEO Julie Fleshman, JD, MBA. 'Though the statistics are grim, there is reason to hope.  There is a growing pancreatic cancer scientific community, many new clinical trials that could lead to new treatment options, and information and resources for patients and families fighting this disease.' "

Justice Ginsburg's legacy is captured in her own words, and they seem aptly fitting here, in this place, in this fight for healing:

"Fight for the things that you care about,
but do it in a way that will lead others to join you."
    ~ Ruth Bader Ginsburg

Yes, the Fight Continues... we will never stop pounding the doors of Heaven until the cure for this cancer's devastation and suffering is found.

We stand strong in the gap for those in the battle.  The days are numbered for Pancreatic Cancer's spread of distress, pain and heartache. 

Leaning into the Fight this day,

Always,

Jane

Focus on the Fight...

If you could find the pulse of our website and blog it would be Fighting this Cancer with everything we've got... Perhaps that is why Robin Roberts quote resonated.

"It's about focusing on the fight and not the fright."

Anyone who has received that cancer diagnosis can identify with the fright... our hearts beat hard and stomachs rebel when the overwhelming reality sinks in.  We know that kind of fright.

But to really fight, we need to get past the fright, past the crippling fear and paralyzing panic and on to the steps we need to take in order to beat this beast.

We could close this post with another favorite quote, from Theodore Roosevelt, that is so apt to our fight... when we don't know where to begin or what to do:

"Do what you can, with what you have, where you are."

Yes, ma'am... just take a breath and then take a step!

It's a good day to make a start,

My Love, Always,

               Jane

FlaxSeedOil2 Forum

The FlaxSeedOil2 Forum could really be called the "Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About the Budwig Diet Protocol."  It is an amazing resource!  Last month David shared about his journey with pancreatic cancer  and one of the treatment decisions he has made is to follow the Budwig Diet protocol.  He mentioned the FlaxSeedOil2 forum on yahoo and here is how to access the wealth of information on this dedicated forum...

Click here at FlaxseedOil2 to check them out.  It is free to join the group, just click on the + Join Group and enter your information.  The members are amazingly generous with encouragement, information and support.

FlaxSeedOil2 is owned and moderated by Sandra Olson.  From their group description she shares:

   "The purpose of this group is to stop cancer and other health problems through the discussion of Dr. Johanna Budwig's Diet and Protocol and compatible treatments. Members give personal experiences and information for educational purposes. This should not be taken as medical advice. If medical advice is needed, it should be sought from those who are qualified. Everyone is responsible for their own choices.

FlaxSeedOil2 is one of the best sources of reliable information on the Budwig Protocol..."

I have joined the group and found much to inspire.  In particular, the moderator clearly lays out the 15 Key Points of Dr. Budwig's Plan... it is easy to understand and is so very do-able.

The 15 Key Points are based on Dr. Budwig's books:

The Oil-Protein Cookbook

and

Cancer-the Problem and the Solution

In addition, Sandra offers a wealth of information at her website:

Budwig - Videos, Healing Recipes for Healthy Living

I encourage you to spend time exploring these resources.  In the name of transparency, there is a small fee to watch the videos, but if this is a protocol that speaks to you, I would be the first to say it is well worth it for the abundance of information and recipes the site provides.

As we navigate the minefield of pancreatic cancer, we find Hope in journeying together... sharing the good, praying through the bad, and above all offering Grace for the struggling.

David has found success in combining the Budwig Diet Protocol with his cancer treatment and urges all fellow cancer warriors to "inform yourself as much as possible - don't let your treatment happen to you - be in control - that's very calming."

There is power in knowledge... may these links offer more avenues of research and help guide your own treatment plan.  And as always, talk with your medical team before adding/changing anything in your therapy protocol!

So humbled to be walking out this journey with you,

In Grace, Always,
Jane

Exciting Breakthrough for Cancer Fighters!

Have you heard about the China Study?

Well, let me tell ya... it is a game-changer!  And I can hardly wait to share the good news.  Actually I was going to wait for the 31 Day Challenge in October to begin... but how to wait??

For anyone struggling with cancer, heart disease, diabetes, or a myraid of many other devastating illnesses this study is a must-read.

In a nutshell, the China Study is the most comprehensive, long-term study on the relationship between our diet and disease, especially cancer...

... and we are going to tear into it come October!  Our 31 Day Challenge for 2017  {so excited}

But until then, here's something to hang on to... There is Hope.

So. Much. Hope.

The China Study doesn't just tell us about the connection between our diet and disease, it reveals the way to stop and in many cases even reverse these deadly diseases.  And it is so very do-able!

Come join us October 1st... I promise you won't be disappointed!

To Health, to Life, to the Fight.

All My Love,
Jane

Healing Cancer...

Hope!  A Healing Cancer Coaching Program... for you!  for me!

Chris from Chris Beat Cancer is offering a FREE online program for anyone who is serious about beating cancer...

Cancer Patients.

Cancer Caregivers.

Cancer Preventers.

Check out his link at SQUARE ONE: Healing Cancer

It's FREE.

It starts this Tuesday, Feb15th.

It is Help.  It is Hope.  It is for you.

Join us this Tuesday, February 15th for a look at the Roadmap that will radically change our lives and begin us all on the journey to Health and Wholeness!

In Graced Hope,

Love Always,

             Jane

A Little Truth about Pancreatic Cancer...

...and a huge dose of Hope for those struggling hard right now.

That's what our 31 Day Challenge has been all about.  Speaking Truth and Hope into the fear and hopelessness of a cancer diagnosis. 

Before our Glorious escape this week past, we were taking a long, careful look at the cancer treatments discussed in The Truth About Cancer documentary.

(Which, by the way, is re-airing as we speak!  Free!  Click here to register!)

For a quick re-cap... here are some of our recent posts:

Let's Be Honest

The Truth Behind the Cancer Story

Now It's Getting Personal...

The Top 3 Alternative Pancreatic Cancer Treatments

The Cellect-Budwig Protocao, Part 1

The Cellect-Budwig Protocol, Part 2

The Cellect-Budwig Protocol, Part 3

A Pancreatic Cancer Success Story...

The Hoxsey Formula

Dying to Have Known...The Gerson Therapy

She Rises with Strength and Purpose

One Tiny Apricot Kernel

Rigvir...A Virus Meant for Good?

A Little Good News...

Everything But the Kitchen Sink...

Dirt Cheap!

And that's just the beginning!  There is so much more to share. 

If nothing else, my prayer is that you feel a Hope rising as you face the cancer foe.  We have options.

Hear that loud... There are options in the fight.  Amazing options.  There can be Hope in the midst of all the hopelessness you may be feeling right now.

What we are sharing here is for educating, for information, for encouragement as we journey this cancer road towards health and healing and living our very best lives. 

{Always, Always talk to your healthcare provider about your individual treatment plan.  And always, always take a proactive role in the fight...you have everything...everything...to gain}

Graced to be in the fight together.  You are precious.  You are loved.  And you are so much stronger than you think you are! 

Join us tomorrow as we tackle the question, What would you do if you were diagnosed with pancreatic cancer... the answer might surprise you!

Much Love,

              Jane

Healing Pancreatic Cancer... Naturally?

All along this journey, the one theme that overwhelms is finding a cure... A cure for pancreatic cancer...

Fighting pancreatic cancer until the battle is won.  Healing. Wholeness. 

Becoming a pancreatic cancer survivor, living life glorious beyond cancer's grip...

We have shared many stories along the way... and laughed and cried... and celebrated those stories... today there is another...

And it is a good story.  With abundant thanksgiving for a good God.  And healing from the terrifying diagnosis of pancreatic cancer.

Please meet Kathryn Hahn. 

She writes and inspires at her blog Kay's Hope For Cancer.

And her story began like so many with pancreatic cancer.  Fear, despair, and debilitating treatments.  7 types of chemotherapy that first year... and still she worsened.

Until a friend set her on a path to alternative healing...

She shares a general rundown on her protocol of healing cancer naturally on her blog, with updates here... here is just a little sample:

"I am using the Gerson Therapy. I have done a lot of research and talked to people who have healed using this protocol and I completely believe in it. This means following the above steps, with eating a certain way, and 10-13 specific vegetable juices a day and 3-4 coffee enemas. Drinking this many vegetable juices a day, which is about 7-8 pounds of carrots a day along with all of the green vegetables, floods your system with a ton of good enzymes and nutrients. This will push all the bad toxins into blood stream. The coffee enemas cleanse the toxins out and detox's the liver. www.gerson.com

My green juice consists of:

Organic.
Dark green lettuces – ¼ to ½ of a head (depending on the size of the lettuce): red and green leaf    lettuces, romaine, endives.  Iceberg is useless and do not use  Escarole – 2 or 3 leaves  Beet tops (young inner leaves) – 2 to 3 leaves  Watercress – 5 or 6 leaves  Red cabbage – 2 or 3 leaves  Green bell pepper – ¼  Swiss chard – little  Green apple – 1   

Then I drink 2 plain 8 oz carrot juices a day and 3-5 carrot/apple juices"

Kathryn also discusses the essential supplements, including Essiac Tea as well as the Budwig formula that she includes in her healing regimen...

Read her blog.  Research, research, research.  Talk with your loved ones, talk with your medical team... If Chemotherapy and Radiation are not working for you, perhaps her story will be an encouragement.

This, of course, is not a promise of healing or a cure.  How we wish it were so.  But it is the story of one woman's journey through pancreatic cancer and her choices to use alternative treatments and natural therapies.

We could never replace your doctor or medical team.  These are decisions that only you can make.

Just another option.  An option that perhaps we need to explore. 

Mom's doctor gave her 3 to 6 months, even with the best known cancer treatment he had available.  I wonder, so many times I wonder, would she still be here with us now if we had explored this option and given it our serious attention...

Our journey presses on.  Praying for the healing we long for... each one...

May Grace light the way, Always,
                                                 Jane

I knew him as Hans Gruber...

My kids knew him as Professor Snapes.

From Die Hard to Harry Potter, Alan Rickman had an appeal that spanned generations.

And this week past, we lost him to pancreatic cancer.

I didn't know him, other than from the brilliant characters he portrayed, and yet, I felt as if I had lost a close friend, there was such a heaviness when I heard the news. A wave of grief for a man who struggled with the same pain, the same prognosis as mom... A man who has so recently walked the same road that mom had journeyed.

Pancreatic cancer is simply devastating lives still...

Power, prestige, position... makes no difference to the insidious disease that continues to rip families apart.

And my heart aches for his wife.  And his family, his friends.  And the many, many fans that have followed his work and are reeling from this sudden loss...

There are no answers for why pancreatic cancer is still winning, for the pain that it causes.

5 years ago our family was in the fight of our lives as mom waged war against a cancer that took no prisoners...and we continue that fight today.

In her honor.

And in honor of the thousands that have raised their hand to be counted in the battle, celebrities and ordinary everybodies who make my heart take wing every single day...

As I have read the many tributes to Alan Rickman this week, a quote of his just resonated deeply:

“And it’s a human need to be told stories. The more we’re governed by idiots and have no control over our destinies, the more we need to tell stories to each other about who we are, why we are, where we come from, and what might be possible.”

Our stories are the light that gives hope as we journey this unpredictable road to what might be possible...

Always. 

May we carry the torch for those following behind... 

Fighting Pancreatic Cancer until the Journey is filled with Hope and Healing...to all the tomorrows that might be possible...

My Love, Always,
                          Jane

Putting on Our Game Face...

Once the diagnosis of pancreatic cancer sinks in and the paralyzing fear and panic settles... and we've taken our first deep breath, it's time to put our Game Face on.

Fighting Cancer is a battle of the biggest kind.  For mom, it was a life and death engagement.  It is the same for most with pancreatic cancer.  The statistics are not in our favor.  And from the moment the diagnosis is made, we are waging war with every tool at our disposal.

It seems only appropriate to sound a Battle Cry...  and this music video is perhaps one of the best around.  I hope you like cats (smile).  They be little and fuzzy, but they are fierce!
 

A Smile for the Journey...

In Grace Always,

              Jane