Sunday, December 20, 2009

An Amazing Christmas Present

I have sent applications and letters to many different charities. When possible, I try not to tell Tina about it so she doesn't get her hopes up. Yesterday, she got quite a surprise in the mail.

An old friend of mine is a lawyer and he is on the board of the firm's charity board. He and Tina were in the same optimist club together so he knew of her story. He emailed me an application. I've been waiting with great anticipation for a couple months now, hoping she would get it and not able to tell her about it. She called me today to tell me she got a big check. Her insurance is now covered until she and Paul get married, as long as there aren't any other financial set backs.

Jon Lomurro and his father's law firm, Lomurro, Davidson, Eastman & Munoz, in Freehold, NJ has given this family such an amazing gift. There are no words to describe how grateful I am. It WILL be a great Christmas afterall, not necessarily for the money, but what the money represents. It has created an assurance that Tina doesn't need to worry about where the money will come from. She has more important things to concentrate on like Paul, Ashley, and staying as healthy as she can possibly be.

As for an update, she is going in for a lumbar puncture this week. That's also known as a spinal tap. I told her to make sure they go to 11. :)

Although the people at the hospital poke and prod her, give her medication that makes her sick, and litterally pump poison into her body, she's making them muffins for Christmas. Is she crazy?! Just kidding. Those people do amazing work and I'm very thankful that they're doing everything they can for her.

They suggested that Tina find trials and get second and third opinions. She is going to try to get an appointment at MD Anderson which is the best cancer hospital in the country. The good news about that is she'll be close to more family.

I really only want one thing for Christmas this year...a cure for cancer. Please pray that my Christmas wish comes true. Merry Christmas to everyone!

Friday, December 11, 2009

Countdown to Christmas

It's been a crazy month and I haven't updated this in a while. I had to move so I've been mighty distracted and for that I apologize.

Tina's daily radiation is finally over. She had a doctor's appointment on Tuesday to discuss their next steps. They won't do another scan of her brain for a little while since even though she's not getting the radiation, it doesn't mean that it's not still working on the lesions. The doctor has put her on two different chemos. If these don't work as well as we want them to, there are three more options. See, donating to cancer research really does help.

The countdown to Jersey has begun...just 12 more days! I'm so excited. We've got family coming in from Minnesota too. I hope to see snow and I'll love watching Ashley open up her gifts, but I'm so looking forward to seeing Tina. In all her recent pictures she looks fantastic!

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Fundraisers!

We have been raising money for several different things for Tina. She had the chairlift installed last Saturday, both of them actually; one for the short steps, then another for the 90 degree turn in the staircase. She says she feels independent again. That's so great to hear. The best thing about it is...THE COUNTY PAID FOR IT! She still needs a new wheelchair and walker. Her health insurance is about to skyrocket to an astounding $1300 a month, on top of $400 in hospital bills, $200 in prescriptions every month while still paying her mortgage, bills and taking care of her daughter Ashley. Not to mention, my mom who is her caretaker has been unemployed since April. (Hmm, that makes me wonder. Why do people say "not to mention", then mention something?)

So last Friday was Beers for Boobs at TGI Fridays in Freehold, NJ. What a turnout!! Unfortunately since I'm in Texas, I was unable to attend, but I heard there were over 100 people there! That is amazing support. I will have a link to an album very shortly. There were a few different people taking pictures so I'm trying to compile them all. Tina looks fabulous!




I'm hoping this Thursday is the biggest turnout for Hope for Tina in Austin, TX yet. Every Thursday in November, even Thanksgiving, Pluckers Wing Bar on Burnet Rd and in Round Rock is donating 20% of customers' checks to Tina as long as they mention her name. The turnout has been somewhat poor, but I'm hoping this week there will be lines out the door to support her. If you're in Austin, please head to Pluckers, help out my sister, and enjoy great food at the same time...mmm wings.

Tuesday, November 10, 2009

Hmmm hm hmm hmmm...

Okay, so I can't hum through a keyboard but the wedding march is in my head. Tina and Paul are engaged!!! We've all known for a while that they want to get married and now the planning can begin.



Earlier this year, Paul lost his job. He wanted to get Tina a beautiful ring but under the circumstances, it wasn't something he could offer her. Unbeknownst to Tina, my grandparents gave Paul our great-grandmother's wedding ring. He has been holding on to it until the time was right.

Paul is back working again (yea! it's rough out there) and Tina's hip has healed from surgery. While we are awaiting a response from the Dream Foundation for a donated "Dream Wedding", some planning is already underway.

Whether this will be five-star, celebrity over-the-top type of event or friends and family chipping in and/or donating services, this will be a celebration of live and love like no one has ever seen. Congratulations to the happy couple!

Friday, November 6, 2009

Tina's on the Radio!

First an update. Tina had an MRI on Wednesday and got the results the same night. There are a few more spots on her brain. They have decided to skip chemo this week and do daily radiation treatments for the next three weeks and hopefully that will shrink them or even better, make them disappear. She will be coming back home daily even though it's over an hour each way. She can't miss out on seeing Ashley.

They did blood tests today and saw she has low blood platelets and white blood count, so she's headed to another hospital for a transfusion. As per usual, she was upbeat on the phone. I've never met a more positive and determined person. She's never upset or discouraged and if she is, she sure doesn't show it.

On a positive note...

Pluckers is an Austin restaurant chain that serves wings and a lot of other amazing food. Mmm, I'm drooling just thinking about it. They are holding Boobie Bingo tonight at one of the locations that has the Hope for Tina fundraisers. Although I don't know what Boobie Bingo consists of, I know it's sponsoring the Save the Tatas foundation. I'm friends with the general manager (that's how much I go there). He gave me a call tonight to let me know a local radio station, 101X KROX, is doing a live broadcast from there tonight. He asked if they could promote Tina's event and they agreed!!! I don't know how many people will go to the resaturant if they don't know who the the event is for, but I sure hope it helps.

If you're in Austin and you heard them talking about it, comment here!

Tuesday, November 3, 2009

Well that explains it...

Last night I got home from work and checked the mail. Most of my mail is catalogs, junk, or credit card statements on accounts that I've already paid online, so it's never an exciting task. But wait, something was different. There, standing out from the worthless trash, was a white beacon of hope, a familiar symbol on the corner of the large envelope, the Lifetime Network logo. Could it be? A lone answer to one of the many packets I sent out for a chance to get Tina and Paul the wedding of their dreams? A tear came to my eye.

I grasped the envelope to my chest, embracing the moment, because what was inside could actually change things, finally an answer to our prayers. As I ran my finger along the seam, I recall having the same anxious feeling when opening college acceptance letters, thinking to myself, "please, please, please!"

My excitement soon turned to dismay when I began reading the first few lines:

"Thank you for sending your proposed program idea. While we genuinely appreciate your interest and desire to share your project with us, as is customary throughout the entertainment industry, it is the policy of Lifetime not to accept or review any unsolicited material received from individuals who are not represented by agents or attorneys known to Lifetime or from production companies Lifetime is not familiar with."

My heart sank. It continued on for two more paragraphs letting me know that they could not help. I am, however, very thankful for their response as I had no idea why over 20 companies had not even acknowledged the receipt of my packet. Well, that explains it.

The few companies' sites where I did proceed down the right path of filling out online applications had very strict character limitations. It's hard to get Tina's full story in only a paragraph or two. I couldn't include pictures of her, her beautiful daughter and loving boyfriend Paul. I couldn't show them the picture of the "chemohawk" that truly illustrates just what a strong and amazing woman she is. I'm lost on how to progress in my mission to make this happen for her. Where do I go from here? Suggestions, along with your prayers, are welcomed.

Sunday, November 1, 2009

Fender Bender

With everything that's happened, hasn't Tina had enough? On Wednesday, October 28, Tina and my mom were driving to her hospital, CTCA, for one of her usual appointments of either pain management, physical therapy, or acupuncture. She goes so often, I don't know what was scheduled on that day.

On the way to the hospital, they were rear-ended. Tina felt immediate pain in her good shoulder. They went to the ER for x-rays and thankfully, everything looked okay. They just knew they were in store for major soreness over the next few days. Because ERs are full of sick people and Tina is immune deficient from all of the chemo, radiation, and the cancer itself, it was best to get her in and out as fast as possible while donning a very stylish flu mask. She also needed to get to CTCA for her scheduled appointments there and then get over to the Temple University Hospital. She had an appointment there to do a test on her nerves, an EMG. They poked and prodded her with needles which included electric shocks. Ugh, just typing that makes me angry that my sister has to go through that.

Because her appointments got pushed back, they were going to be in Philly until late in the evening and were supposed to be back the next day. They decided to stay over in a hotel. Initially not having plans to stay the night, they had to get the essentials at Target, spending well over $100 between those goods and the hotel. Things keep piling up.

Three hospitals and a car accident in one day while suffering with nausea from chemotherapy. Tina deserves a medal, or a trophy, or a plaque. Nah, I'll settle for a million dollars.

Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure

This morning was the annual Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure in Austin, TX. The turnout was truly amazing. It's great to see so many people involved. Entire companies are going. I saw Best Buy, Dell, Round Rock ISD, IBM, Texas Roller Girls (on skates!), Cedar Park Cheerleaders, HEB and an astounding number of teams. It's upsetting to see that many teams only because you know there is a specific person behind each one.

Today, I met up with the team "Believe, Believe". That's the team for my mom's best friend, Kimberly Ellis (and my friend too). She was diagnosed with breast cancer about the same time that Tina was first diagnosed. They both went through treatment and were in remission. Unfortunately both Kimberly and Tina's cancer came back around the same time too. It's great to see Kimberly so strong and determined. She's looking very healthy which we all love to see.

I handed out about 150 flyers for the Plucker's fundraiser and many people were excited to see the Plucker's logo. Hopefully since they enjoy the food and are involved in the race, they'll go and even bring others.

Friday, October 30, 2009

Wow, Talk About Support!

There has been an out-pouring of support! I cannot believe how many people are involved now. Actually I can believe it since Tina is such an amazing person, who wouldn't want to help?

A Facebook group has been started for Tina, "We've Got Your Back Tina". Please join by visiting this site: We've Got Your Back Tina. In less than 24 hours, 150 have joined! A huge thanks goes to Nicole Jennings who started this group.

Please leave comments to let me know you've come to this site.

If you're in Austin, you've got to go to Pluckers on Thursdays. I want there to be a line out the door. = )

Tuesday, October 20, 2009

Salon Fundraiser

The salon fundraiser was yesterday and they raised $650 for Tina! This is a decent start to a downpayment for the chairlift or towards a better wheelchair. Mom and Ashley got their hair done and of course Ashley got her nails done. She might not be a prissy-type little girl, but she sure does love doing her nails.

Tina's friend Casey is in Freehold visiting, but Tina has appointments all week in Philly. At least they're getting site seeing done. She had three MRIs today and has an appointment with the nuerologist. Please continue to pray and send your positive thoughts.

Thursday, October 15, 2009

Fundraisers for Tina - 10/19 and 11/12

On Monday, October 19 from 6-9pm, you can pamper yourself at the Avanti Salon in Manalapan, NJ. The "Her Night Out" will benefit Tina, the National Breast Cancer Foundation and CancerCare. Individuals who attend the Her Night Out event will be treated to complimentary salon and spa services including makeup applications by professional makeup artists, haircuts, blowouts, Keratase hair treatments, facials, polish changes for fingers and toes, hand massages with light exfoliations, head and shoulder massages, and 15-minute spot massages on heated water beds fitted with soothing lights. Not too shabby for $25. For more information about the Oct. 19 Her Night Out fundraiser, call Avanti Day Resort at 732-780-0222. Tickets must be purchased in advance at the front desk. HER NIGHT OUT! A big thanks goes to Anne Galya and Andrea Magalhaes for their support on this fundraiser.

On Thursday, November 12 from 5-10pm, come out to the TGI Friday's in Freehold, NJ for "Beers for Boobs". A portion of your bill (excluding alcohol and tax) will be donated to Tina to help cope with medical bills, the chair lift and maybe even go towards the wedding. Grab a bite, have a blast and don't forget to wear pink! Thank you Adam Iorlano for putting this together!!

Monday, October 12, 2009

Fundraiser in the works

I'm trying to get a "Meet and Eat for Tina" day going. I'll be posting a flyer you can print and distribute, along with a link that can be posted with the details. This event will be held both in Austin and in the Central Jersey area. Go to specific restaurants on a certain day and meet with friends and support Tina at the same time. A percentage of the profits from that day will be donated as long as people say why they're there. This is in the very beginning stages. If you have a restaurant in mind that you think would want to participate, please let me know. I'm think the beginning/middle of November. Any sooner and I wouldn't have time to get anything together. Any later is too close to the holidays. It's already closer than I would like, but I don't want to wait until January or February.

If you've got any more ideas or ways to help, please let me know.

Sunday, October 11, 2009

Pluckers

Were you at Plucker's on South Lamar Saturday night? The game was kinda messy in the beginning but it was still a win. Hook 'em! Thanks for taking the time to visit the site. Leave a comment to let me know you came by. If you're wondering what this is all about, please visit the archives on the right side and click on July and read "The History and The Mission." Spread the word, who knows, maybe someone has a connection. If not, I'm just glad to know that you're here reading about my sister. Please continue to send your prayers and positive thoughts her way.

Saturday, October 10, 2009

A quick hello

I hope to get a hold of some pics to share from Tina's recent trip to Austin. It was short, but it was really good to see her. I hope everyone, both in Austin and in Jersey got the books they ordered. It's only two pages, but it's so incredibly touching as so many of the other people's lives/journeys told in that book are.

I will be posting an update soon.

Thursday, September 24, 2009

Update from Tina Before her Flight to Texas

Tina should be taking off in about two hours or so. She posted a comment on Facebook:

"Ugh, I am sick today and I have to get on a plane. Called the doctor and waiting to hear back.
Still dealing with yesterday. Had a brain MRI, not sure of results yet. Legs are weak and they may never be the same. They want to put me on another chemo that will cause me to lose my hair again. It wasn't so hard the first time, but I am devastated this time. I just want to get married with my own hair. I know it is superficial, but it really hurts. I am seeing a neurosurgeon on 10/15. I don't know what to expect anymore or what to hope for. I hadn't been aware until yesterday that I have tumor in my spinal cord, I thought it was just my bones. It's gonna be a tough day."

I break down every time I hear things like this. I hope the trip down here will raise her spirits some. We are going to a comedy show Saturday night and she gets to see a high school friend while in town. Please continue to pray for her, not just her physcial healing but for her spirit as well.

Monday, September 21, 2009

The Smile Never Fades This Weekend.

This is a post from Tina's facebook page.


Picking up the books this weekend. If u still want to order 1, please let me know. There'll be a picture of Ashley & I with some of our cancer story. It's $35 if u order from me & u can write a check to me. If u order it online at ..."The Smile Never Fades" it's $35 plus a $5 shipping charge. A portion of the proceeds goes to Austin Breast Cancer Resource Center. We're up to about 20 books so far. Thanks 4 ur help.

If you are in New Jersey and would like a copy, please let me know and I'll send a copy home with Tina. You can just write her a check. You can contact me if you are in the Austin area and I'll pick one up for you to save $5 in shipping.

Woohoo, only four days until they visit!

Friday, September 18, 2009

Back in Texas and waiting for next weekend

I was expecting delays on 9/11, but 5 and half hours? Really? It had nothing to do with terrorists, just tornados...or tomatoes as the cutie-patootie said next to me. Awww. Since I always fall asleep as soon as I board and buckle up, all I brought with me to do was Sudoku. That's only entertaining for about 15 minutes, 30 tops. I went to the in-airport bookstore and found "The Last Lecture". I'd been wanting to read it since I first heard about him on Good Morning America. If you're not aware, "The Last Lecture" is about a professor diagnosed with pancreatic cancer who had three to six month left with his wife and three young children. Boy, talk about a bad time to read it. I cried several times in front of at least 40 people waiting at the gate.

By the time I landed, I had missed out on half of a day of seeing Tina and Ashley. My mom and I did have fun getting lost on the way back from Philly at 11pm though. However, the GPS lady kept hogging the conversation. I couldn't get a word in edgewise. "So mom, how's--Turn right in one point three miles" Shut up lady, I'm talking here! hehe

The next morning, Ashley and I made a fort in her play room. It's amazing how you can still feel like a little kid at times but your body definitely isn't one anymore. I could hardly sit and keep my butt and my feet in the fort at the same time, so how could I be expected to play in it? I hate that she lives so far away from me, but it's awesome to be able to play with her when I get the chance.

After I got the feeling back in my lower extremetries from being bunched up and hiding from bad guys (my mom), the family went out to dinner. I hope it was nice for Tina to get out of the house and it not be to the hospital, a support group or errands.





Sunday was an early morning. We first went to the Bridal store and Aunt Lisa and I tried on bridesmaid dresses. Then it was off to Ashley's family birthday party at the park. It was nice to see family that I hadn't seen in a long time and I know it was good for them to see Tina.

Monday morning we went into Philly. Tina had a follow up appointment with the orthopedic surgeon then physical therapy. Since that's in two different places, we got to take a limo from the doctor's office to CTCA (Cancer Treatment Centers of America). If you're paying millions of dollars in hospital bills, might as well take advantage and ride in style. I'm so not cut out for that lifestyle though. I almost had to use the patient vomit bags. The longer the car, the worse my carsickness is apparently, blech.



Then it was back to the airport. At least my flight was only delayed by 30 minutes this time. I finished "The Last Lecture" just as we landed. I called mom as soon as I got off the plane and she told me that Patrick Swayze had passed from pancreatic cancer. I bawled, what timing. Sheesh. He fought for a long time. He will be missed. RIP.

The weekend was very short but at least mom, Ashley and Tina are in Texas in just one week.

Thursday, September 10, 2009

Goin' to Jersey

I'm excited about going to New Jersey tomorrow. I sure hope the security check on 9/11 isn't going to take forever. Hopefully the date will have deterred some passengers from flying tomorrow and this is only Austin, it's not like Newark, Ohare or LAX.

The last time I saw Tina, she was not in the best of shape, although her outlook has always been positive, but I hear from her and my mom that she's looking stronger now. It's great talking to Tina now that her voice is mostly back.

Ashley's birthday is later this month, so I'm taking the trip for her party on Sunday. Two weeks after that, Tina, Ashley and my mom are flying out to Austin. The author of the book "The Smile Never Fades" is having a book signing and since Tina's story is in it, she's coming down.

In the last update from Tina, she mentioned her hands were peeling and she was having pains in her stomach. Thankfully the peeling has stopped and the stomach pain has lessened. It seems there's a two-steps-forward-one-step-back aspect to recovery, but as long as it stays in the forward motion, we're doin' okay. Dang it, now I have that awful Paula Abdul song in my head. I hope mentioning that got it in your head too. I don't want to be the only one suffering here. = )

I'll be sure to write updates on the trip. "All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go..." I'm quite the little song bird today. Do yourself a favor. While in your car today, sing loud, play steering wheel drums and let out your inner child/inner rockstar. You'd be amazed what that does for you. It's all about attitude.

Sunday, September 6, 2009

Update by Tina

This was written by Tina last week. It got lost in my email...stupid spam.

Last lumbar MRI was 9/22/08 and is how we found the cancer. There are new lesions since last September but none appear to be new new, there have been things that have shown up on the PET scans. There is a healed or healing compression fracture in my lumbar vertebrae which has caused some shortening of the lumbar spine. In addition to the lesions in the thoracic spine, I also have some bulging discs which have nothing to do with the cancer.

It does not appear that anything is impinging on any nerves or the spinal cord, but I am experiencing some occasional burning sensations in my lower left back next to the spine and some weakness in the right leg.

I am going back to the orthopedic oncologist on Sept 14th to check the hip and shoulder. I will have him review my new MRIs. If the symptoms are worse and he deals with the back, I will get his opinion. If he doesn't deal with the back, they will send me to a neurologist.

I am walking better and speaking better, but I am very tired in the afternoons. My hands have started peeling which is a side effect of the Xeloda and I am having almost daily stomach pains in the afternoon but we don't know what that is from.

Overall, I feel good, but I never know what each day will bring. I guess we're good as long as it brings another day. Ashley starts school next week and I can't wait to WALK her to the bus stop for the first time.

I am having some issues with the online school thing. Perhaps too much too soon. Too late to drop out and a lot to catch up on.

--Tina

Monday, August 24, 2009

Status Update (Boy that sounds impersonal)

I feel as though I have no creative synapses today so I'll give it to you straight. Today, Tina had an MRI done to look closer at her back. She's been having more pain there than usual so the doctors want to check , should get results on Wednesday.

Although there are many days that are either trips to the hospital or simply lying around the house, recently Tina's told me about more frequent outings. Ones that don't include needles, chemo drips or radiation.

Tina, Ashley, Paul, and Paul's daughter, Payton, ventured out to the boardwalk. They all went on some rides. She says it makes her feel normal again. That makes me want to cry.

She's gone to see Paul's band and has been visiting the pool. My my took the most adorable videos of Ashley at the pool. She has become quite the little fish, even jumping off the high dive; that's Ashley, not Tina. :)

Sunday, August 23, 2009

Anyone have a DeLorean I can borrow?

In the first blog I mentioned how this blog is also a vehicle for venting. So get out your notebooks and get ready to say, "and how does that make you feel?", because I'm getting comfy on the couch and all set to let it out.

I know you've seen Back to the Future. There's one part of the movie in Part II that really has me thinking lately. Marty had caused a break in the timeline and spawned a parallel universe. In this alternate universe, his father had died, the whole town was trashed, Biff and his mother were married, and nothing was as it should be. He had to go back in time (yet again) to fix this and right all of the wrongs. I feel like I'm stuck in an alternate universe.

Somewhere there is another me living a much happier, "right" life where my sister isn't sick and everyone is employed. I know there's no such thing as a "right" life, but I just feel like things were going swimmingly, then out of no where, I fell into a downward spiral and I can't climb out.

So, does anyone have a DeLorean I can borrow? I can actually buy a Flux Capacitor online. It's to scale, mountable and has adjustable flashing lights. It even says in the description that if you get pulled over for speeding to point to the Flux Capacitor and tell the officer, "I was just trying to get up to 88mph."

https://www.thinkgeek.com/geektoys/plush/9fc6/

At least this makes me giggle. The one thing that Tina and I love doing together is watching 80s movies. I feel bad for anyone else in the room with us because we quote all the lines to the point of absolute frustration. Tina better clear her schedule on September 12, I see an 80s movie marathon in our future. Our own John Hughes film festival perhaps.

Thursday, August 13, 2009

Treatment Update and The Smile Never Fades

Tina started with chemo in January. It worked really well on her organs, shrinking the tumors in her lungs, liver, and the little tumors on her chest. It didn't, however, work as well on her bones. Because it spread to her shoulder and arm, they opted to switch treatment and concentrate on her arm with radiation and start chemo in pill form.

Tina's done with the radiation for now but still taking the chemo pill every day. This is alternated with two weeks on, one week off and will continue for about nine weeks or so. Every three weeks she gets Avastin which cuts off the blood supply to the tumors. Once a month she gets Zometa to strengthen her bones and Zolodex to cut down on hormones which can cause cancer to spread. I wish she would've gotten more Zometa earlier, maybe she wouldn't have broken her hip. But then she wouldn't be able to say that she "finally got her big break". Boooo, hisss, someone throw a tomato already.

She goes back for scans in about two months to see how well the treatment is working and decide on the next steps from there. So far since her surgery, her doctors and physical therapist are very impressed with her mobility. I think the stronger she is with that, the more her body can work to fight the cancer.

There is an Austin author who lost his wife to cancer. He wrote a book called, The Smile Never Fades. He has written two others and Tina's story will be in Volume 3. That is where the picture of Tina and Ashley, and the one of Tina, my mom and Ashley come from. I'm pretty sure it's going to have the story in it about the airport trip. Just thinking about it makes me giggle. Tina and Ashley were coming to visit Austin, just the two of them and for some reason, no immediate help from passersby. Picture this: here's a woman in a wheelchair with luggage on her lap and her knee-high-to-a-grasshopper five-year-old pushing her, grunting with every step. Eventually a gentleman didcome over to help...thank God someone was raised with manners. Nevermind the people staring, I just think it's adorable that Ashley would do that.

If you're interested in purchasing a copy of this book, you can preorder it online:
http://www.thesmileneverfades.com/book.html

There is talk of a book signing so if he actually does one here, Tina will be coming back to Austin for a visit. I'm excited because no matter if that happens or not, I'll be seeing her in September for Ashley's birthday party. Hey Tina, way to hold it on September 13th, now I get to fly on September 11th. Hooray for me!

Wednesday, August 12, 2009

Maybe Tonight, Maybe Tomorrow

Scott Leger is a singer/songwriter for the band Wideawake out of Austin. I met him about 8 years ago or so while he was playing his acoustic on the deck of a Starbucks. Over the years I've been to many shows and even brought my mom to a few. After I went to Chicago, she became better friends him and the band than I had ever been. He even played at my mom's 50th birthday party this past November. If you ever have the opportunity to see him or his band, you should definitely go.

He wrote a very special song about his friend Sharon who had cancer. My mom and I went to the recording of the video. I've posted the video and put the lyrics below. It's very moving, have a tissue on hand. Everyday we have to remember to LiveStrong, not just for our loved one(s) with cancer, but for ourselves too. It's kinda like on an airplane when you put on the mask for yourself first then help someone else. You're no good to someone if you're not there and strong enough to help them. (Thought I'd put in a little humor...very little, I know). Always keep smiling. = )

Maybe Tonight, Maybe Tomorrow lyrics

I heard the news today. It came out of nowhere. I wish I could run away,but where would I go? Is this my destiny? Something so unfair... What will become of me? God only knows.

And they say the road to heaven might lead us back through hell. Maybe tonight, maybe tomorrow, we will win this fight and bury this sorrow. We're so alive, still holding on, not ready to die, so we LIVESTRONG.

My pride is left for dead, as my world gets shaken. The thoughts inside my head are so hard to control. I am staring down the unknown, but one thing is certain: you could break my body, but you will never break my soul.

And they say the road to heaven might leads us back through hell, but we're holding on for more than stories to tell. Maybe tonight, maybe tomorrow, we will win this fight and bury this sorrow. We're so alive, still holding on, not ready to die, so we LIVESTRONG.

Thursday, August 6, 2009

Taking a ride up to the next floor

I never thought of myself as a blogger. It seemed like a great idea a few weeks ago. Now it seems difficult to sit and put my thoughts into words, especially about things that are so personal. I could, of course, just tell you about the day to day about Tina that I hear third party through my mother via IM, but I am missing a lot of the data. I will wait until I have a long phone conversation and make sure I know all of the facts, good or bad before sharing them here.

I do know that since her hip surgery that she has walked up and down a flight of stairs without the use of a cane. She is using the walker more now rather than the wheelchair. Things are looking up.

She is going to the best possible hospital, Cancer Treatment Centers of America. Before Tina's cancer came back, I remember seeing a commercial for them. A woman with pancreatic cancer was saying that her initial doctor was very insensitive and cold while telling her she had three months to live. At the Cancer Treatment Centers of America, they don't believe that people have expiration dates unlike the two (maybe three) week old carton of milk in my fridge. Hmm, note to self, clean out the fridge. Anywho, Tina seems to be thriving there. Her doctor is always pushing to get out of that wheelchair and would never think to speak to a patient as though they're weak, but instead, "Get up damnit, stop being a sick person." It's all about attitude.

They also have holistic treatments. Once Tina's at the hospital, she's got a full day of appointments. It may start with light-touch massage, then acupuncture, then physical therapy and of course chemo and pain management. It's like a day at the spa, only...well, it's nothing like a day at the spa, but there are lots of appointments to concentrate on yourself and feeling better at the end of the day. I like the fact that they treat the caretakers so well too, free food and I can book appointments for myself. They've got a great cafeteria or you can order it up for room service. Oh, and the desserts, yum: cheesecake, milkshakes, ice cream, etc. I could have booked my own massages if I wanted. Hey, if it's included in the half-a-million-dollar bill, might as well, right? I passed on that though. Just didn't feel right getting a rub down while Tina's getting crazy chemicals pumped in her body. I would like to take some of the drugs though, she looked pretty happy on a few of them. :) Did I tell you she had medical marijuana at one point? It was in pill form and had to be refrigerated which I thought was strange. I was hoping for some brownies. Haha.

So for now, I have no real news to report except things are looking up, especially on the mobility aspect. Remember, if you've got a story to share about Tina or have pictures you want to post, send them my way. My email address is on my profile to right.

Many of you are asking to donate. I'm somewhat uncomfortable with accepting personal funds; I was looking for help from corporations, but the response has been overwhelming. I'll be posting a paypal soon. It's a lot easier than putting a check in the mail. Envelopes, stamps, actually writing a check (who does that anymore) and getting to the mailbox. The worst part of that is my sister then has to go to the bank. So the paypal will be up shortly. Please do not feel obligated to send anything; this is mainly for close friends and family that would send things anyway. The support so far has been incredible. It's because of all of you that my sister gets more strength. I appreciate your thoughts and prayers as I know she does too.

I leave you with very inspirational words from my friend and yours, Mr. Rogers and his farewell song:

It's such a good feeling to know you're alive. It's such a happy feeling, you're growing inside. And when you wake up ready to say, "I think I'll make a snappy new day." It's such a good feeling, a very good feeling, The feeling you know that we're friends.

Until next time friends...

Wednesday, July 29, 2009

Mother's Day Walk 2009

This is a post written by my cousin, Debi:


Tina and I met in 2003 when her 1st cousin Joe and I became a couple and decided to get married. I knew from the moment I met Tina we were going to be great friends and of course cousins by marriage. When I found out Tina had breast cancer it really made me sad and angry at the same time. My first instinct was to find a way to help, not only Tina but all women who have this disease.


In November of 2008 my husband and I met Tina and her family in Austin and participated in the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer walk. I had never been to a breast cancer walk before and it was an experience I will never forget, especially because Tina just found out her cancer had come back. When I returned to Houston I immediately started looking for walks here to participate in. This is when I found the Network of Strength Walk to Empower event on Mother’s Day. I decided to start a team in Tina’s honor and invite all the family and everyone else I knew, so Tina’s Texas Team was born. I really could not have asked for a better group of people to be with on Mother’s Day. Our entire family came along with several friends. We had t-shirts made, which my co-captain Jenny’s husband designed the logo for and Connie and her husband made the t-shirts at a very low cost to all of us, which was a blessing. It really was a group effort and the walk day was priceless.

Over 30 people showed up to honor Tina and did I mention that our shirt won 1st place in the t-shirt contest! Jenny and I made signs and held them up while we walked and Tina’s Texas Team definitely made a huge impact at the walk that day.
Tina is my inspiration every day, when I got up extra early the day of the walk and met walkers that complained about being there early on a Sunday or walking the three miles, I reminded them that they could have it worse, they could wake up with cancer everyday. So next time you have a bad day, think about Tina and all other women who wake up and have to battle cancer everyday of their lives. I do!

--Debi Anderson



I'd like to thank Jon who designed the logo. If you need graphic design, please contact him.

If you want to write a story about Tina for me to post, let me know. We'd all like to hear about your experiences together.

Monday, July 27, 2009

The History and The Mission

Growing up, my sister Tina and I were so different. Even though we are only three years apart, the gap felt bigger. We rarely had those special sister moments that people often talk about, but of course we loved each other. My Mom, Dad and I moved to Texas in 1995 while Tina stayed in New Jersey to go to college. The distance in miles has exasperated the distance in our relationship. It wasn’t until our adult years that our friendship began to grow. Unfortunately, it was at that point that life chose to throw some really difficult challenges her way. I feel extremely helpless and want to do whatever it is that I can to make things at least a little better. I want to tell you about Tina. I want to tell you about how her strength has inspired me, and humbled me to ask you for your help.

Tina was first diagnosed with breast cancer in April 2006, at the age of 29. This was a rough period in her life; she was going through some marital troubles and struggling to take care of her two-year-old daughter, Ashley, who is the absolute light of her life. After months of treatment Tina’s cancer went into remission. Although they tried to make things work in their marriage, Tina and her husband eventually divorced, and she was ready to start a new chapter in her life.

Tina had a new lease on life and was ready to find love again; true love that she didn’t even know existed yet. That’s when she met Paul. She described him to me as something straight out of a movie script or romantic novel. She told me that all those cheesy lines about someone lighting up a room, or making your heart skip a beat really do happen. Their relationship has continued to flourish and those moments have yet to disappear. I had never seen Tina so happy.

In the summer of 2008, Tina started to experience pain in her lower back. She thought it was muscle strain that would go away on its own. After a few months, the doctor suggested an MRI where they discovered her cancer had returned, but this time it was much worse. It had spread to her liver and lungs and all throughout her bones in her legs, hips, back, sternum, and arms. I can only imagine how things might be different had she gone to the doctor at the onset of this pain.





The cancer has taken a serious toll on her body. An aggressive drug used in conjunction with the chemotherapy caused rash on her face, the effects of which have yet to fade and may never fully disappear. For reasons we don’t yet know, one of her vocal cords is paralyzed and she sometimes speaks in a whisper. Because of the cancer in her legs and hips, it’s difficult for her to walk. Unfortunately, she lives in a two story house. Since the cancer has spread to her arms and shoulders, she can no longer pull herself up the stairs by the banister and it’s becoming increasing harder to get in and out of the car. On her most recent trip to the hospital to get scans, the doctors discovered she had broken her hip. She’s had surgery to insert pins to stabilize the break. After that has healed, she will receive rigorous physical therapy to reverse the affects of the atrophy caused by being mostly bedridden for more than six months.

Throughout all of this, Tina’s maintained a positive outlook. Sometimes it is difficult for me to understand how strong she is inside, when she looks so weak on the outside. She can hardly walk, has no hair, a scarred face, and can barely speak, but she has an unwavering determination that she will beat this. Her strength is an inspiration to our family and everyone she meets.

When I heard the cancer returned and she would need help, I drove to New Jersey to be her caretaker through the beginning months of chemotherapy. My mother was laid off from her job in April so we traded places. Although I tried my best to care for Tina, there’s nothing like having your mom around.


Paul has been with her throughout all of this. Although they wanted to wait until they were married for them to live together, they’ve decided it was best that he move in now to help out as much as he can.


Tina lost her job after being on disability for more than six months. As luck would have it, Paul also got laid off. There are now three adults under one roof, a five-year-old to take care of, and no one has a job.

Tina and Paul desperately want to get married. He is determined to make this special for Tina, but cannot afford to until he is employed again. Due to my sister’s mobility, there needs to be a remodel on the house which includes a chair lift and a renovation of the bathroom. Just recently the transmission went out on the car which is how she and my mother get to the hospital in Philadelphia every day for radiation and physical therapy treatments. The family is chipping in to help with these expenses. With mounting medical bills, the cost of raising a child, every day bills and expenditures, and now an expensive remodel, a wedding is the last thing they can afford.

I am reaching out to the public because I simply don’t know what else to do. It is heartbreaking to see Tina get hit with a new obstacle every time she turns around. She’s gone through so much grief; I want to be able to give her some joy. I want to give Tina and Paul the wedding they deserve and a time to gather extended family to celebrate this truly wonderful occasion. Nothing over-the-top or incredibly fancy, just something that right now is unfortunately beyond their means given all of the medical expenses and the economic hardships. I know that Paul has made Tina happier than she’s ever been, and I’d like to give them the opportunity to focus on that. I want to give my sister another way to fight this cancer – by focusing her energy on the love she’s found. We never know how much time we have on this earth and I think it’s important that they don’t put it off. True love should never have to wait.





I am sending the above letter to people and companies that might be able to help with this cause. If you know of anyone who may be able to help, please contact me. Thank you everyone for your love, support, prayers and positive thoughts.

Sunday, July 26, 2009

Chronicle of a Strong Woman's Ups and Downs

I've started this blog for my sister Tina who is currently battling cancer. I want her story to be told. It's not only to keep friends and family up to date on her status and everyday triumphs and set backs, but to be honest, also as a therapeutic outlet. You are all now my psychologists as I lie rambling on this metaphoric couch known now as Tina's Elevator: Chronicle of a Strong Woman's Ups and Downs.