Blogging Chicks CarnivalThere is no theme for the carnival this week, so this chick has chosen to do the Happy Dance about my friend, Wayne, who is also a survivor. In my Day in the Life of a Breast Cancer Survivor post, I have mentioned the importance of early detection with many links at the end.
Today the subject is Barrett's Esophagus, Heliocobacter Pylori, Colon Polyps, and Cancer. AARRGGHH you say !
Let me introduce you to my friend Wayne. He is a cancer survivor and we have walked the walk together, literally and figuratively speaking.
In the last six weeks, several words have come into my life, and I want to share them with you because of the importance of paying attention to signals your body may be sending you. Because I'm over fifty, and was having some 'stomach' problems, by oncologist suggested that I have a colonscopy and upper endoscopy. The colonoscopy test results were fine, but the doctor did diagnosis me with Heliocobater Pylori. Two antibiotics, Metronidazole and Clarithromycin, were prescribed for me. Everything is much better.
The problem now was with theHansMan, who has been experiencing 'heart burn' for several years and crunches on Tums much of the time. Convincing him to make an appointment to have the same procedures was not working. Hog-tying him and dragging him, kicking and screaming was no easy task, but on Monday, the deed was done. One tiny polyp was removed, so that test was ok. The biopsy results from the upper endoscopy have not come back yet, but the doctor said there was evidence of Barrett's esophagus. While treatment does not reverse Barrett's,the likelihood of developing cancer and complications can probably be reduced with a combination of diet, lifestyle changes, medication, and/or surgery. A regular program of endoscopic examinations and biopsy is essential to monitor the Barrett's tissue. By working closely with a physician, patients can expect good control of both GERD (gastro-esophageal reflux disease) and Barrett's and an excellent long-term outcome.
Why am I telling you all of this? Because Wayne had esophageal cancer several years ago, and just happened to be in town this week to encourage theHansMan to follow the doctor's orders. Wayne is the picture of health and is now supporting others who are going through cancer treatments. He has raised $1,000.00's of dollars for cancer research and continues this endeavor on almost a daily basis.
If you or someone you know experiences "heart-burn," acid reflux, or chronic stomach problems, see a doctor to ask what steps should be taken to prevent a serious illness.
Just a footnote, if you are ever in the need of a snow-making gun, call Wayne at SMI Snow Makers. They cover the world. That link is worth the time to click on and watch their 'snow making slide show.'
Wayne, this post is for you, my friend !
