Hi All,
It's been a few weeks since I've posted. We've been busy working on staying healthy and also had some exciting nights. Brian Lindner held a "History of Mt. Mansfield Ski Patrol" Benefit for Gary at the Ski Museum in Stowe. We were quite honored by the turn out of friends and Gary's fellow Ski Patrollers that showed up from around the Northeast. Thanks to all who came to this memorable evening. Also, Thanks to the Ski Museum for offering your incredible Ski Museum space for this night. If you haven't stopped by yet to see the museum, put it on your tour list for all ages to enjoy. Thanks again everyone involved. I had tears in my eyes when I saw all the support from the Ski Patrol contingent. You all really stick together!
On this evening Shifterboss had announced that he had started a raffle for a pair of Red Sox tickets to benefit Gary. Also, Gary has offered to raffle off a cedar-lined hope chest that he built many years ago. We're calling it "Gary's chest of Hope"...(okay..don't think into it!). Thank you Shifter for helping with Shrinking Gary's Tumor.
On St. Patrick's Day we brought Gary's Chest of Hope to McCarthy's and sold raffle tickets on the front deck. It was fun to see many old friends and meet new. Thank you Diane and Dan and Lee LaBier for helping with this raffle. Betsy and Wendy were also a blast to have helping with the sales. It was a nice sunny day and we even had a chance to run the puppies on the quiet path during down times throughout the day.
Gary went skiing the Sunday before St. Patrick's day and by Tuesday mid day he was experiencing a nagging headache and felt very fatigued. We had an appointment at the VT Center for Integrative Herbalism on that Tuesday afternoon to discuss Gary's diet and how things have been going. By that evening Gary ate dinner early and went to bed. The next a.m. he still felt horrible and so he stayed home and slept all day. I think this is expected with the 4 week period post radiation/chemo. He slept well on Wednesday night and woke up so refreshed that I was puzzled by the drastic change...but who could complain right? Since then he has had renewed energy. He went skiing yesterday with Rick and Karen who arrived from NY late Friday. We stayed up relatively late last night reminiscing old times and today he and Rick are working on the ventilation system for Gary's studio. Wow! It's like old times!
Ian and Jaynie are enjoying the company of Rick and Karen's teenagers Derrick and Kyle. Kona is having a blast with all of the attention and I am certainly feeling the warmth and positive vibes from the sunshine this wonderful family brought with them.
I'll be on this blog soon with updates on Gary's appointment scheduled for Duke U on April 6th. His MRI scheduled at Fletcher Allen is April 2nd. This will hopefully tell us how the RT and Chemo was received by Gary.
Happy Spring!
ME
After the Ski Museum Event
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Friday, March 20, 2009
Still Working
The Shrink Gary's Tumor Team is still working! Our next venture will be April 18th at the VFW in Hyde Park, an authentic Mexican dinner, dancing, raffle, silent auction and general all around good time. Save the date and come join the fun.
We are currently working on soliciting items for the raffle/auction. If anyone has personal contacts at any of our wonderful local bussinesses and would be able to request a donation on our behalf, please contact Jen at jecca88@comcast.net so we can confirm that they have not already been asked. Many hands make light work, but too many cooks spoil the soup. OK, Enough with the bad cliches!
Hope to see you there,
Jen
We are currently working on soliciting items for the raffle/auction. If anyone has personal contacts at any of our wonderful local bussinesses and would be able to request a donation on our behalf, please contact Jen at jecca88@comcast.net so we can confirm that they have not already been asked. Many hands make light work, but too many cooks spoil the soup. OK, Enough with the bad cliches!
Hope to see you there,
Jen
Sunday, March 8, 2009
Compatible Alternatives + Standard Treatment
Gary's treatments are over for now. He gets an MRI on April 2 to find out how the tumor reacted to the standard treatments for the GBM. Along with the standard radiation and temodar for 6 weeks Gary also used quite a few alternative treatments. Thanks to all of our friends and family for giving him tremendous support his mental state continues to be very positive which is the most important ingredient in healing.
Cheryl H's bone marrow broth full of such herbs as astragulus root, shiitake and mietake(sp) mushrooms was eaten twice a day. Nancy S's mushroom extract taken each morning, Rachel Jeans Ultimate Green Drink-daily doses- and Guido's guidance through the Vt Center for Integrative Herbalism in Montpelier where we learned about proper diet while going through the standard treatments for the GBM.
All of these people are or have been students of Rosemary Gladstar a reknowned Herbalist and teacher who lives close to our community. Dr. Roos, a Homeopathic MD on Church Street in Burlington has treated Gary with a remedy since 4 days after his biopsy.
Since Gary's diagnosis so many people have wanted to learn about the diet necessary to help stop the growth and shrink Gary's tumor. Thanks Bunny M for all the soups and books you've brought over at just the right moment when I can't think of another thing to make that actually may be good for Gary. Thanks for the RAW Milk Warren and Tara. Gary used coconut oil on his skin where he was being radiated. The seeds from the pits of apricots were another daily routine until all the local stores ran out. Green Tea, Nettle Tea, Goji and Fresh dark juices. He took daily doses of New Chapter Rhodiola and Tumeric. He also stayed on a high alkaline diet (lots of info on-line).
At this point we'll keep the diet going along with the alternative meds. And of course, keep learning!
We have contacted Dr. Henry Friedman at Duke and plan to take advantage of a break from treatments to go to NC for a consult. The Robert Preston Tisch Tumor Foundation at Duke specializes in treating people with GBM Tumors along with other Tumors. We'll let you know how it goes of course.
Jaynie comes home from Switzerland and France tonight. She's in NJ right now on a 4 hour layover and I'm wondering why she just told me she still has homework due and she's back to stressing!!! SIGHHHHH
Ian and I will go meet her at the airport and make his ceremonious trip to Best Buy to check out any new games and electronics that may be out.
Gary is sitting here working on the taxes and staying positive;)That's an oxymoron statement isnt it???
I'm off to go for a hike with Kona since it's invitingly warm outside, although miserably muddy. I LOVE MUCK BOOTS!
Thank ALL of you again.
PEACE
MaryEllen
Cheryl H's bone marrow broth full of such herbs as astragulus root, shiitake and mietake(sp) mushrooms was eaten twice a day. Nancy S's mushroom extract taken each morning, Rachel Jeans Ultimate Green Drink-daily doses- and Guido's guidance through the Vt Center for Integrative Herbalism in Montpelier where we learned about proper diet while going through the standard treatments for the GBM.
All of these people are or have been students of Rosemary Gladstar a reknowned Herbalist and teacher who lives close to our community. Dr. Roos, a Homeopathic MD on Church Street in Burlington has treated Gary with a remedy since 4 days after his biopsy.
Since Gary's diagnosis so many people have wanted to learn about the diet necessary to help stop the growth and shrink Gary's tumor. Thanks Bunny M for all the soups and books you've brought over at just the right moment when I can't think of another thing to make that actually may be good for Gary. Thanks for the RAW Milk Warren and Tara. Gary used coconut oil on his skin where he was being radiated. The seeds from the pits of apricots were another daily routine until all the local stores ran out. Green Tea, Nettle Tea, Goji and Fresh dark juices. He took daily doses of New Chapter Rhodiola and Tumeric. He also stayed on a high alkaline diet (lots of info on-line).
At this point we'll keep the diet going along with the alternative meds. And of course, keep learning!
We have contacted Dr. Henry Friedman at Duke and plan to take advantage of a break from treatments to go to NC for a consult. The Robert Preston Tisch Tumor Foundation at Duke specializes in treating people with GBM Tumors along with other Tumors. We'll let you know how it goes of course.
Jaynie comes home from Switzerland and France tonight. She's in NJ right now on a 4 hour layover and I'm wondering why she just told me she still has homework due and she's back to stressing!!! SIGHHHHH
Ian and I will go meet her at the airport and make his ceremonious trip to Best Buy to check out any new games and electronics that may be out.
Gary is sitting here working on the taxes and staying positive;)That's an oxymoron statement isnt it???
I'm off to go for a hike with Kona since it's invitingly warm outside, although miserably muddy. I LOVE MUCK BOOTS!
Thank ALL of you again.
PEACE
MaryEllen
Sunday, March 1, 2009
3 More Days of Radiation
Hello All. Gary is doing well.
We still haven't got an exact tally from the benefit, but it's roughly around $8,000 that was raised!!! It was such a fun time too! Thanks to everyone for all you have helped us with. Driving, food deliveries, information gathering, help with the kids and well wishes.
These days Gary keeps pretty busy reading and he is almost finished with a 2nd prisma color drawing. The Robert Paul Art Gallery in Stowe actually called the day after the benefit and told Gary that a client of theirs has asked Gary for a commision painting of...surprise surprise A COW!! Ha Ha. Gary doesn't want to resume painting until he fixes the ventilation in the studio. He's concerned more than ever about making sure it's a healthy space to work in.
I signed on to a Braintumor group site recently and have been gathering more information. Gary has a new book given to him by Sunny and Morgain, our neighbors. It's titled Herbal Medicine Healing & Cancer. Thank you!!! It's a great reference that he can use as he is becoming more in tune with proper diet for brain cancer and what works while undergoing radiation and chemotherapy.
I read some of the files on the Brain tumor site that discussed whether combining antioxidants with Chemo and radiation is beneficial. I can see the logic in being concerned with taking supplements that might make the radiation and chemo not do their job, but it sounds like from what I'm reading so far that the antioxidants seem to help the person with the cancer withstand the treatments better while going through the whole process. It also may help the cancer patient..Gary better withstand stronger or longer doses as we go forward.
I fowarded a new article to some friends this a.m. from Feb. 2009 Cancer Monthly that refers to a new study on Scutellaria a Chinese herb and killing brain cancer cells. I sent it to Guido at the Vermont Center for Integrative Herbalism.
Today Gary and I are off to Burlington to check out a new old truck to replace the one that got totalled when the Tractor Trailer truck rearended me a few weeks ago.
Jaynie is doing well in Geneva. She goes to school with her Pen Pal tomorrow. His family sounds really nice. The first day in Switzerland she said she took 350 pictures. I hope she has time to enjoy the place when she's not busy shooting the place!
Kona is happy to finally have the lampshade off of her head and we've been to the Oxbow several times to run off some pent up energy from the past few weeks of leash jail.
Ian has been keeping busy gaming, and skiing and visiting friends for vacation. He doesn't seem to miss having an older sister around so far.
Gary's parents went home yesterday a.m. They enjoyed spending time with Gary each day. Gary's Dad kept busy in the wood shed while Peg spent time reading up on Gary's new diet.
Have a peaceful Sunday.
We still haven't got an exact tally from the benefit, but it's roughly around $8,000 that was raised!!! It was such a fun time too! Thanks to everyone for all you have helped us with. Driving, food deliveries, information gathering, help with the kids and well wishes.
These days Gary keeps pretty busy reading and he is almost finished with a 2nd prisma color drawing. The Robert Paul Art Gallery in Stowe actually called the day after the benefit and told Gary that a client of theirs has asked Gary for a commision painting of...surprise surprise A COW!! Ha Ha. Gary doesn't want to resume painting until he fixes the ventilation in the studio. He's concerned more than ever about making sure it's a healthy space to work in.
I signed on to a Braintumor group site recently and have been gathering more information. Gary has a new book given to him by Sunny and Morgain, our neighbors. It's titled Herbal Medicine Healing & Cancer. Thank you!!! It's a great reference that he can use as he is becoming more in tune with proper diet for brain cancer and what works while undergoing radiation and chemotherapy.
I read some of the files on the Brain tumor site that discussed whether combining antioxidants with Chemo and radiation is beneficial. I can see the logic in being concerned with taking supplements that might make the radiation and chemo not do their job, but it sounds like from what I'm reading so far that the antioxidants seem to help the person with the cancer withstand the treatments better while going through the whole process. It also may help the cancer patient..Gary better withstand stronger or longer doses as we go forward.
I fowarded a new article to some friends this a.m. from Feb. 2009 Cancer Monthly that refers to a new study on Scutellaria a Chinese herb and killing brain cancer cells. I sent it to Guido at the Vermont Center for Integrative Herbalism.
Today Gary and I are off to Burlington to check out a new old truck to replace the one that got totalled when the Tractor Trailer truck rearended me a few weeks ago.
Jaynie is doing well in Geneva. She goes to school with her Pen Pal tomorrow. His family sounds really nice. The first day in Switzerland she said she took 350 pictures. I hope she has time to enjoy the place when she's not busy shooting the place!
Kona is happy to finally have the lampshade off of her head and we've been to the Oxbow several times to run off some pent up energy from the past few weeks of leash jail.
Ian has been keeping busy gaming, and skiing and visiting friends for vacation. He doesn't seem to miss having an older sister around so far.
Gary's parents went home yesterday a.m. They enjoyed spending time with Gary each day. Gary's Dad kept busy in the wood shed while Peg spent time reading up on Gary's new diet.
Have a peaceful Sunday.
Friday, February 27, 2009
History of the Mt Mansfield Ski Patrol
Still Working to Shrink Gary’s Tumor
On March 14th Brian Lindner will be hosting a presentation on the History of the Mount Mansfield Ski Patrol at the Vermont Ski Museum. It will be a one-hour slide presentation covering the history of America's oldest ski patrol. The presentation not only tells the story of how and when the MMSP was first founded but also how this lead directly to the creation of both the National Ski Patrol and World War Two's famous 10th Mountain Division. Doors open at 6 p.m. presentation starts at 7p.m. There will be a $10 minimum charge. Proceeds will benefit the Gary Sudol Trust Fund.
On March 14th Brian Lindner will be hosting a presentation on the History of the Mount Mansfield Ski Patrol at the Vermont Ski Museum. It will be a one-hour slide presentation covering the history of America's oldest ski patrol. The presentation not only tells the story of how and when the MMSP was first founded but also how this lead directly to the creation of both the National Ski Patrol and World War Two's famous 10th Mountain Division. Doors open at 6 p.m. presentation starts at 7p.m. There will be a $10 minimum charge. Proceeds will benefit the Gary Sudol Trust Fund.
Saturday, February 21, 2009
After the Matterhorm!
Thank Everyone who helped and came to the benefit for Gary and our family on Thursday night! We could not get over the turnout. What a community we live in. We hope everyone enjoyed the band and also won one of the many awesome donations that were being raffled and auctioned off. (we still do not have a final $ tally) It took me several hours to walk around the bar stopping and talking to many old and new friends. ON our way to the "horn" Gary was saying that he didn't know how long he would last. We all pretty much know his early early morning routine of waking up and painting and getting the fire going...etc. I also know that he loves seeing his friends so I wasn't to surprised to see that he held up really well. No fatigue or sign of wanting to even sit down. We THANK YOU ALL for once again helping make Gary's cancer days less of a downer and more of a fight to cure himself.
His parents arrived last night and we'll all spend the week sending Jaynie off on her 18th birthday to celebrate in Switzerland with her French Class. Ian won't know what to do with himself! You can be assured he's working hard in his French class so he can also go on a trip of a lifetime in a few years. Jaynie's pen pal family are avid skiers and will be taking her to the Alps while she is there. So EXCITING for her!
Kona, the puppy, spent last weekend being spayed (thank you Dr. Cindy at LVVC in Hyde Park) and now she's wearing a cone on her head for the next 7 days due to ripping out her stiches and becoming infected. It's quite a task keeping a lab puppy entertained on a leash and now with a CONE on her head ARGHHH!!! I can't help laughing at her when she walks through the house bumping into things with her conehead held held high as though this new extremity is not going to take away her dignity. So funny, but so sad.
We welcome visiters and callers any time.
We continue to eat healthy and slowly push the new diet onto our kids who are taking the transition in stride. (NOT)
Talk soon...have a nice weekend.
Peace on Rock out EAT WELL!
ME
His parents arrived last night and we'll all spend the week sending Jaynie off on her 18th birthday to celebrate in Switzerland with her French Class. Ian won't know what to do with himself! You can be assured he's working hard in his French class so he can also go on a trip of a lifetime in a few years. Jaynie's pen pal family are avid skiers and will be taking her to the Alps while she is there. So EXCITING for her!
Kona, the puppy, spent last weekend being spayed (thank you Dr. Cindy at LVVC in Hyde Park) and now she's wearing a cone on her head for the next 7 days due to ripping out her stiches and becoming infected. It's quite a task keeping a lab puppy entertained on a leash and now with a CONE on her head ARGHHH!!! I can't help laughing at her when she walks through the house bumping into things with her conehead held held high as though this new extremity is not going to take away her dignity. So funny, but so sad.
We welcome visiters and callers any time.
We continue to eat healthy and slowly push the new diet onto our kids who are taking the transition in stride. (NOT)
Talk soon...have a nice weekend.
Peace on Rock out EAT WELL!
ME
Monday, February 16, 2009
President's Day
Good Morning All. Today is a holiday for many of us. I plan to go to work for a while since the kids have school and Rick, Karen and their family are going home to NY where their kids go back to school tomorrow.
After Gary had a sleepy day with a nagging headache on Saturday, it turns out since early Saturday evening he has been feeling great. Cheryl H dropped off a new addition for Gary's diet on Sunday a.m. Rachel Jean's Ultimate Green Drink. You can read about this on www.empoweredherbals.com Last night Gary asked me to come up with some more tastey vegitarian dishes. He's getting bored with what we've been eating and also wants add a higher percentage of fiber to his diet. SOOO if anyone has any ideas for a high alkaline veggie diet let me know. I'd love to get some suggestions. Meanwhile I'll be looking on-line for ideas.
We look forward to seeing many of you at the benefit at the Mattehorn on Thursday night. It looks like we may have some winter weather to accompany us!
ME
After Gary had a sleepy day with a nagging headache on Saturday, it turns out since early Saturday evening he has been feeling great. Cheryl H dropped off a new addition for Gary's diet on Sunday a.m. Rachel Jean's Ultimate Green Drink. You can read about this on www.empoweredherbals.com Last night Gary asked me to come up with some more tastey vegitarian dishes. He's getting bored with what we've been eating and also wants add a higher percentage of fiber to his diet. SOOO if anyone has any ideas for a high alkaline veggie diet let me know. I'd love to get some suggestions. Meanwhile I'll be looking on-line for ideas.
We look forward to seeing many of you at the benefit at the Mattehorn on Thursday night. It looks like we may have some winter weather to accompany us!
ME
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Cliche~One day at a time ~ it's so true!
It's over half way now for Gary's treatments. He's been doing well. Dr. Framm seemed to be impressed with Gary's health status. He said to not be surprised at this point if Gary seems more tired. If he feels tired and low energy he should go with it and rest. Also, try not to do to much strenuous activity. I agree. Stay healthy right? He actually slept quite a bit today mostly because of a nagging subtle headache.
We have our friends from NY here. Gary grew up with Karen and Rick. They took off and went skiing at Mansfield with their kids for the day. Jaynie and Ian met up with them.
Gary and I stayed home. I finished shaving his head. It's now totally buffed. He looks good! We're at a point where Guido is helping with additional suggestions for nutritional supplements. I also need to figure out about the radiosensitizers forwarded to us. My brother-in-law is a chemistry major and doc so I have a call in to him to help me with this.
I'm about to get back to the kitchen and finish working on a concoction for dinner...should be interesting. We'll check in to the blog tomorrow...gotta go.
OH! Happy Valentines to all. AND WE SOOO APPRECIATE ALL OF YOUR AWESOME MEALS AND WELL WISHES AND HELP FROM EVERYONE THIS WEEK...GARY HAS FRIENDS IN MANY PLACES AS WE HAVE BEEN REMINDED OF DAILY...THERE IS A BENEFIT COMING UP THIS THURSDAY NIGHT AT THE MATTEHORN AND WE THANK MANY MANY PEOPLE FOR ALL OF THE SUPPORT AND WONDERFUL DONATIONS THAT ARE COMING IN. XOXO
ME
We have our friends from NY here. Gary grew up with Karen and Rick. They took off and went skiing at Mansfield with their kids for the day. Jaynie and Ian met up with them.
Gary and I stayed home. I finished shaving his head. It's now totally buffed. He looks good! We're at a point where Guido is helping with additional suggestions for nutritional supplements. I also need to figure out about the radiosensitizers forwarded to us. My brother-in-law is a chemistry major and doc so I have a call in to him to help me with this.
I'm about to get back to the kitchen and finish working on a concoction for dinner...should be interesting. We'll check in to the blog tomorrow...gotta go.
OH! Happy Valentines to all. AND WE SOOO APPRECIATE ALL OF YOUR AWESOME MEALS AND WELL WISHES AND HELP FROM EVERYONE THIS WEEK...GARY HAS FRIENDS IN MANY PLACES AS WE HAVE BEEN REMINDED OF DAILY...THERE IS A BENEFIT COMING UP THIS THURSDAY NIGHT AT THE MATTEHORN AND WE THANK MANY MANY PEOPLE FOR ALL OF THE SUPPORT AND WONDERFUL DONATIONS THAT ARE COMING IN. XOXO
ME
Saturday, February 7, 2009
19 radiation treatment days to go.
Hi All! Gary is just coming in from running around on Dave S's little bobcat. He's rearranging the snow around the property. Thanks Dave...Gar is really keeping busy now with a cool toy to play with! (smiling and shaking my head).
I woke up this past Monday and thought about how Gary is pretty much getting back to preXmass day activities. He's involved with some wood projects in the garage, fixing computers and camera equipment, looking at his ARC GIS material, and of course eating well. He and Ian have gone skiing and they shoveled the snow off the roof next door at Frank and Peg's.
I thought about all of this and then said to myself that there's one more thing that I bet he starts... He walked upstairs from the basement at that moment and I asked him what he was up to. He said he was mixing paints to get ready to resume working on his Jackson Hole, Teton painting. THAT WAS IT! He's now back to "Gary's World" again! Right Cindy??? Garage and basement projects, painting, mountain...it's all coming back together.
As of this week he still feels well. No headaches, nausea, fatigue. This morning he took a shower and it was the first time he noticed that his hair is starting to fall out. He asked me to please tell him if the back of his head starts showing bald spots. I promised him I would. His Chemo is still a nightly bedtime routine and will continue for quite a while even after he's done with radiation.
I know I keep going back to this, but the FOOD everyone is sending is unbelievably great! The rides have been the best too. Mostly it's good for me, because I don't know how much longer I can be nice to him while he's telling me how to drive. I mean honestly! I asked him if he wonders how I manage without him following me around to tell me what to do all day. He said he doesn't know how I manage:-[ SO...THANKS! REALLY;0
Jaynie is excited to leave in about 18 days for Geneva. She's working alot and saving her money. Ian just came snow shoeing with me and our puppy, Kona. It's such a nice spring like day today. It was 32 degrees earlier which is a heat wave after all of the below zero days the past few weeks. Anyone else burning through the wood like we are?
Have great rest of your weekend!
ME
I woke up this past Monday and thought about how Gary is pretty much getting back to preXmass day activities. He's involved with some wood projects in the garage, fixing computers and camera equipment, looking at his ARC GIS material, and of course eating well. He and Ian have gone skiing and they shoveled the snow off the roof next door at Frank and Peg's.
I thought about all of this and then said to myself that there's one more thing that I bet he starts... He walked upstairs from the basement at that moment and I asked him what he was up to. He said he was mixing paints to get ready to resume working on his Jackson Hole, Teton painting. THAT WAS IT! He's now back to "Gary's World" again! Right Cindy??? Garage and basement projects, painting, mountain...it's all coming back together.
As of this week he still feels well. No headaches, nausea, fatigue. This morning he took a shower and it was the first time he noticed that his hair is starting to fall out. He asked me to please tell him if the back of his head starts showing bald spots. I promised him I would. His Chemo is still a nightly bedtime routine and will continue for quite a while even after he's done with radiation.
I know I keep going back to this, but the FOOD everyone is sending is unbelievably great! The rides have been the best too. Mostly it's good for me, because I don't know how much longer I can be nice to him while he's telling me how to drive. I mean honestly! I asked him if he wonders how I manage without him following me around to tell me what to do all day. He said he doesn't know how I manage:-[ SO...THANKS! REALLY;0
Jaynie is excited to leave in about 18 days for Geneva. She's working alot and saving her money. Ian just came snow shoeing with me and our puppy, Kona. It's such a nice spring like day today. It was 32 degrees earlier which is a heat wave after all of the below zero days the past few weeks. Anyone else burning through the wood like we are?
Have great rest of your weekend!
ME
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Greetings!
Hey ME and Gary, This is my first "blogging" experience, and I'm not quite sure what I did to end up on the front of your blog - oops! Please feel free to edit/delete. Just wanted to let you know that we think of you often and are ready to jump in wherever you need us. LOL Heidi and Carl W.
Saturday, January 31, 2009
oops! Wrong Cell number!
Hi,
Gary's Cell Number is 802-793-0655. The other telephone number I gave to reach him was mine.
ME
Gary's Cell Number is 802-793-0655. The other telephone number I gave to reach him was mine.
ME
Week 2 for Radiation/Chemo.
Thanks to everyone who has helped with food and driving this week. I have to say that we still have a hard time accepting all of the support. Right from the beginning of Gary's diagnosis we instantly had this support team waiting in the wings for our whole family. Kids, me, Gary. You had us covered from every angle. We need this type of thing happening in this whole world, luckily for us great minds, hearts and souls seem to be hanging close to Movegasville these days. You are the BEST!
Gary is doing so well this week that he went to work again each day for a few hours. He feels great with respect to what we fear. No nausea or constant fatigue at this point. A person who does not have many health issues at diagnosis is not typically expectedto have many syptoms at the beginning of treatent. Gary went into this pretty healthy so we hope he stays that way throughout this phase of treatment.
He is having his daily dose of Cheryl H's bone marrow soup to assist in keeping up his white blood cell count. He continues to follow the diet recommended by Guido at the Vermont Center for Integrative Herbalism. He tries to keep physically and mentally busy working and doing yard chores and reading.
If anyone wants to call and talk to him his cell phone is 802-371-7083 he would love to chat.
Talk soon.
ME
Gary is doing so well this week that he went to work again each day for a few hours. He feels great with respect to what we fear. No nausea or constant fatigue at this point. A person who does not have many health issues at diagnosis is not typically expectedto have many syptoms at the beginning of treatent. Gary went into this pretty healthy so we hope he stays that way throughout this phase of treatment.
He is having his daily dose of Cheryl H's bone marrow soup to assist in keeping up his white blood cell count. He continues to follow the diet recommended by Guido at the Vermont Center for Integrative Herbalism. He tries to keep physically and mentally busy working and doing yard chores and reading.
If anyone wants to call and talk to him his cell phone is 802-371-7083 he would love to chat.
Talk soon.
ME
Dinner & Driving Schedule
Hi All,
The dinner and appointment times have been posted on the google calendar! You can sign up for yourself, just click on the pink box on the day you wish to volunteer. It will prompt you to "edit event", at which point put your name in. If you would prefer, just call or email me at jecca88@comcast.net or 888-7165 and I'll take care of it for you :) Thanks for all of your help!!
The dinner and appointment times have been posted on the google calendar! You can sign up for yourself, just click on the pink box on the day you wish to volunteer. It will prompt you to "edit event", at which point put your name in. If you would prefer, just call or email me at jecca88@comcast.net or 888-7165 and I'll take care of it for you :) Thanks for all of your help!!
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Treatments begin
Hi all, I haven't had a chance to write this week. We've been keeping busy though.
First off, we have the schedule for the whole 6 weeks, but I think I'll just post the schedule week by week since STUFF happens like weather, health, CAR issues (I'm in that predicament). Anyway, next week:
Monday 1/26 - 6:45pm -- Tom M
Tuesday 1/27 -- 6:45pm -- Kelley B
Wednesday 1/28 -- 7:15pm I may need help due to a out of town work situation..may not get back in time.
Thursday 1/29 -- 6pm --I'll drive
Friday 1/30 -- 10am -- I'll drive - unless some has time during the day.
I notice that most of the times are 6-7pmish and then towards the end of the 6 weeks he has mostly earlier a.m. appointments. I wonder if it's because of how he may be feeling. The med team really can't commit to telling us how Gary will respond to the treatments.
As you all know Gary and I have been reading everything from research papers, books and online chats about the Glioblastoma tumor. You get to a point where information starts crisscrossing from one resource to another and then you make a reasonable plan as to how to move forward. No one person is going to give us an answer or suggest what we should be doing exactly because everyone reacts differently to the tumor.
Based on everything we've read (and gut instinct) and anyplace we've gone to meet the experts all roads lead us back to Temador-Chemo pill daily for the year and 6 weeks of radiation. There is no way out.
With this in mind,Gary is taking his diet really seriously so he can handle the treatments. We discuss a diet that works on proteting the healthy cells and not the cancer cells. We went to The Vermont Center for Integrative Herbalism last Monday night and met with Guido a teacher at the school. He is assisting Gary with diet consultation while he fights the tumor. Guido is extremely knowledgeable and I recommend anyone with diet concerns to contact this school. We feel good about everything we have been learning so far.
Gary's reading a really cool book called "The Untold Story of Milk". Awesome information! Thanks Warren! Other books are, "Surviving Terminal Cancer" by Ben Williams. (Thanks for this one Kristy A.). This book drove me to contact Dr. Henry Friedman who is a Neurosurgeon that specialized in Glioblastoma Brain Tumors at Duke University. He surprised me on Tuesday by calling my cell phone in response to my email. I was stunned needless to say. He basically confirmed that we should continue the chemo/radiation 6 week treatment and that when Gary gets his MRI after the 6 weeks to call him back on a specific tel number that I now have written down in about 12 places. Pretty cool huh? Another book that Gary just finished is "Coyote Medicine" by Louis Mehl-Madronna. My associates at work ordered it for Gary when they heard about his diagnosis. It's a great source. The Author comes to Johnson State 2-3 times a year to work with Susan Greene. She has done workshops at our Agency and recommended this book for Gary.
Today we will be around doing reading, errands, stoking the fire and walking the puppy. Jaynie is working at the mountain and Ian is still sleeping as I write this. Hope you all stay warm this weekend and thank you all so much for everything from the food to the transports and well wishes. Community is really the wind in our sail right now for sure.
ME
First off, we have the schedule for the whole 6 weeks, but I think I'll just post the schedule week by week since STUFF happens like weather, health, CAR issues (I'm in that predicament). Anyway, next week:
Monday 1/26 - 6:45pm -- Tom M
Tuesday 1/27 -- 6:45pm -- Kelley B
Wednesday 1/28 -- 7:15pm I may need help due to a out of town work situation..may not get back in time.
Thursday 1/29 -- 6pm --I'll drive
Friday 1/30 -- 10am -- I'll drive - unless some has time during the day.
I notice that most of the times are 6-7pmish and then towards the end of the 6 weeks he has mostly earlier a.m. appointments. I wonder if it's because of how he may be feeling. The med team really can't commit to telling us how Gary will respond to the treatments.
As you all know Gary and I have been reading everything from research papers, books and online chats about the Glioblastoma tumor. You get to a point where information starts crisscrossing from one resource to another and then you make a reasonable plan as to how to move forward. No one person is going to give us an answer or suggest what we should be doing exactly because everyone reacts differently to the tumor.
Based on everything we've read (and gut instinct) and anyplace we've gone to meet the experts all roads lead us back to Temador-Chemo pill daily for the year and 6 weeks of radiation. There is no way out.
With this in mind,Gary is taking his diet really seriously so he can handle the treatments. We discuss a diet that works on proteting the healthy cells and not the cancer cells. We went to The Vermont Center for Integrative Herbalism last Monday night and met with Guido a teacher at the school. He is assisting Gary with diet consultation while he fights the tumor. Guido is extremely knowledgeable and I recommend anyone with diet concerns to contact this school. We feel good about everything we have been learning so far.
Gary's reading a really cool book called "The Untold Story of Milk". Awesome information! Thanks Warren! Other books are, "Surviving Terminal Cancer" by Ben Williams. (Thanks for this one Kristy A.). This book drove me to contact Dr. Henry Friedman who is a Neurosurgeon that specialized in Glioblastoma Brain Tumors at Duke University. He surprised me on Tuesday by calling my cell phone in response to my email. I was stunned needless to say. He basically confirmed that we should continue the chemo/radiation 6 week treatment and that when Gary gets his MRI after the 6 weeks to call him back on a specific tel number that I now have written down in about 12 places. Pretty cool huh? Another book that Gary just finished is "Coyote Medicine" by Louis Mehl-Madronna. My associates at work ordered it for Gary when they heard about his diagnosis. It's a great source. The Author comes to Johnson State 2-3 times a year to work with Susan Greene. She has done workshops at our Agency and recommended this book for Gary.
Today we will be around doing reading, errands, stoking the fire and walking the puppy. Jaynie is working at the mountain and Ian is still sleeping as I write this. Hope you all stay warm this weekend and thank you all so much for everything from the food to the transports and well wishes. Community is really the wind in our sail right now for sure.
ME
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Google Calendar
We have set up a Google Calendar associated with shrinkgarystumor@gmail.com. This calendar will serve as our primary schedule for meal delivery and driving Gary to his appointments. All you need to do is search "Google Calendar" on Google, sign into the account by using shrinkgarystumor@gmail.com for account and sudolfamily as the password. We will ad those individuals who have already volunteered for specific dates and duties. For those dates which we do not have anyone signed up to provide either meal or ride, we will enter "dinner" in the 6PM slot with no name attached. We will enter the words "Ride To" (location) in the time slot which Gary is scheduled to be at his appointment. If you are able to provide a dinner or ride on one of those days, please put your name in the appropriate slot. We have put a sample on today's date. If you would like us to enter the information for you, you can either email us at jecca88@comcast.net.
Dave and Jen
Dave and Jen
Dinner Anyone?
As with the driving schedule, as soon as we figure out how to make an interactive calendar we will post one, but until then anyone interesting in helping out by providing dinner for the Sudols on a Saturday, Monday or Thursday, please comment here or email me at jecca88@comcast.net with the date that you are able.
Thanks! Jen
Thanks! Jen
Monday, January 19, 2009
Driving Sign Up for Fletcher Allen Health Care
I cant figure out how to post a calendar on this blog so I am just going to start this Thursday and Friday bringing Gary for treatments as planned and then ask for help starting the following Monday-Friday. Each Wednesday I will bring Gary, since that is the day that the Doctor checks in on Gary.
I think the easiest way to make this work is to have people check the blog and (pass the blog info around) write the date that you would like to drive into the comment area on this post. For now most of the appointments are later in the day/evening. Since Fletcher Allen has over 100 people a day getting treatments for 6 week periods Gary starts out as "low man on the totem pole" for preferable times. As the weeks go on he can start making requests for earlier times. SO...Please write your name and telephone number and email address along with the day you can transport. Jen and I will be keeping a calendar. Keep in mind this is a work in progress. For now just keep the driving date sign ups right on the comments part of this particular post. We will add a calendar if possible once we figure out how.
If anyone wants to email us directly with questions:
mesudol@comcast.net (Mary Ellen)
jecca88@comcast.net (Jen)
Thanks!
I think the easiest way to make this work is to have people check the blog and (pass the blog info around) write the date that you would like to drive into the comment area on this post. For now most of the appointments are later in the day/evening. Since Fletcher Allen has over 100 people a day getting treatments for 6 week periods Gary starts out as "low man on the totem pole" for preferable times. As the weeks go on he can start making requests for earlier times. SO...Please write your name and telephone number and email address along with the day you can transport. Jen and I will be keeping a calendar. Keep in mind this is a work in progress. For now just keep the driving date sign ups right on the comments part of this particular post. We will add a calendar if possible once we figure out how.
If anyone wants to email us directly with questions:
mesudol@comcast.net (Mary Ellen)
jecca88@comcast.net (Jen)
Thanks!
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Information
MaryEllen and Gary
You might want to click the following link and read it. Might be a similar situation with good results!! Maybe someone in this country is familiar with it.
http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?artid=2588232
Dave
You might want to click the following link and read it. Might be a similar situation with good results!! Maybe someone in this country is familiar with it.
http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?artid=2588232
Dave
Friday, January 16, 2009
Back Home -30 and a miracle
To bad negative double digits couldnt kill off tumors...because today would be a killer day for sure. How about that landing on the Hudson??? Miracles do happen!!!
Well, Doc Black confirmed that we are doing well to stay with Doc Penar and the team at Fletcher Allen at this point in Gary's process. I thanked him for his free 48 page download on dealing with Glioblastoma and he laughed. He hoped we were able to get through the whole thing. I assured him we did.
We had a nice time seeing my parents, my sister and her family as well as some old friends. I even got to watch my niece play hockey. She's in 9th grade and plays varsity. Unbelievable game!!!
Thanks Pam and Dave!! We love you guys! Mom thanks for the sweaters and pencils and Dad don't worry about the animals here. Good LUCK Courtney and Steve and have a blast in Argentina!!! Oh and BETZEE thanks for ALL you do on the home front!!!
We arrived home just in time for me to turn around and bring Jaynie and Ian to Montpelier to catch a 2:30 bus to Boston. They are driving with Pam and Dave and their family to my niece Courtney's wedding in Stamford, CT this weekend. Thank you Ann Louise for offering to drive them to the bus. As it turns out the bus didn't get to Montpelier until 4:30 and then they had to switch busses in White River due to engine failure. The new bus doors wouldn't shut...at that point it was so late to make their connection in Boston. Pam finally picked them up at South Station in Boston at 8:45 and they arrived at her house by 9pm. Not bad timing and good travel experience. I don't know how we survived without cell phones back in the day. I had play by play updates throughout the evening.
Time to brave the cold and get to work.
ME
Well, Doc Black confirmed that we are doing well to stay with Doc Penar and the team at Fletcher Allen at this point in Gary's process. I thanked him for his free 48 page download on dealing with Glioblastoma and he laughed. He hoped we were able to get through the whole thing. I assured him we did.
We had a nice time seeing my parents, my sister and her family as well as some old friends. I even got to watch my niece play hockey. She's in 9th grade and plays varsity. Unbelievable game!!!
Thanks Pam and Dave!! We love you guys! Mom thanks for the sweaters and pencils and Dad don't worry about the animals here. Good LUCK Courtney and Steve and have a blast in Argentina!!! Oh and BETZEE thanks for ALL you do on the home front!!!
We arrived home just in time for me to turn around and bring Jaynie and Ian to Montpelier to catch a 2:30 bus to Boston. They are driving with Pam and Dave and their family to my niece Courtney's wedding in Stamford, CT this weekend. Thank you Ann Louise for offering to drive them to the bus. As it turns out the bus didn't get to Montpelier until 4:30 and then they had to switch busses in White River due to engine failure. The new bus doors wouldn't shut...at that point it was so late to make their connection in Boston. Pam finally picked them up at South Station in Boston at 8:45 and they arrived at her house by 9pm. Not bad timing and good travel experience. I don't know how we survived without cell phones back in the day. I had play by play updates throughout the evening.
Time to brave the cold and get to work.
ME
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
The Boston Irish Opinionated Family
Hi Gary and All,
We stole Gary and MaryEllen for a while. We love you Gary and are praying for you and your family everyday. You are the best. Keep up that great attitude!!!
We would also love to help with any fundraising events. Please keep us informed!!
Love and kisses, Pam and Dave Gaughan and many kids!!!!
p.s. - please help Dave finish our kitchen !!!
We stole Gary and MaryEllen for a while. We love you Gary and are praying for you and your family everyday. You are the best. Keep up that great attitude!!!
We would also love to help with any fundraising events. Please keep us informed!!
Love and kisses, Pam and Dave Gaughan and many kids!!!!
p.s. - please help Dave finish our kitchen !!!
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Going to Boston
Hello All! Since the pot luck on Saturday Gary has gone to Fletcher Allen to meet with Dr. Penar for a post biopsy check up. Gary is doing well. He actually worked today for a few hours in the garage. Thanks to Dave Sullivan for transporting and transcribing meds for Gary. This afternoon Tom Scarf is bringing Gary to his first Oncology appt. at FAH. He is currently lined up for 2/22/09 in the evening for the first radiation appt. at FAH if that's where he decides to go. Gary put together an awesome notebook to carry all of his med records and notes that we will most likely need. This idea has been brought up by many experts and friends. Keeping organized records of this process saves lots of time and stress for all. Thanks to all who have been coming over to help with wood and also for all the awesome food. Yesterday morning I took Gary to his dentist for a cleaning, it's recommened to have this done before he starts treatments. Interesting huh? Not really;[
Tomorrow we go to Brigham and Women's in Beantown for a 2nd opinion. It's a little easier for me to think of Gary possibly going to Boston instead of the much recommended Dartmouth Hitchcock simply because I have so much family in the Boston area. A funny thing happened this a.m. on my way to work...I stopped at Petes aka the Mobil station across from Bishop Marshall to get some gum and Kerry works there. We worked together at Topnotch a few years ago. She told me she heard about Gary on the radio last night. I said WHAT!!?? Evidently WLVB received a packet of information requesting that the station make an announcement about Gary and his diagnosis along with the TD Banknorth trust fund. Who ever did that WOW! Thanks!
I called Gary and told him right away. He was really stunned. Thanks to everyone and I'll be sure to write from Boston in the evening when we get to my sister's house.
ME
Tomorrow we go to Brigham and Women's in Beantown for a 2nd opinion. It's a little easier for me to think of Gary possibly going to Boston instead of the much recommended Dartmouth Hitchcock simply because I have so much family in the Boston area. A funny thing happened this a.m. on my way to work...I stopped at Petes aka the Mobil station across from Bishop Marshall to get some gum and Kerry works there. We worked together at Topnotch a few years ago. She told me she heard about Gary on the radio last night. I said WHAT!!?? Evidently WLVB received a packet of information requesting that the station make an announcement about Gary and his diagnosis along with the TD Banknorth trust fund. Who ever did that WOW! Thanks!
I called Gary and told him right away. He was really stunned. Thanks to everyone and I'll be sure to write from Boston in the evening when we get to my sister's house.
ME
Monday, January 12, 2009
How can I help?
Whenever we hear of a friend in need, our first thought is "How can I help?"
Sat Jan 10th friends of the Sudols gathered to show Gary and family their support. In that one evening $250 was collected for "gas money" to help with trips to Burlington and Boston. Thanks All!
A meal schedule has been established to provid healthful easy meals. There is nothing nicer than to come home from a long day and have dinner ready. Contact Jen at jecca88@comcast.net if you'd like to contribute.
Once Gary and Mary Ellen decide where Gary's treatments will take place, we will devise a driving schedule for anyone interested in helping drive Gary to his daily appointments if they plan on doing them in Burlington.
A trust has been established at TD Banknorth to assist them financially while Gary is out of work. Simple donations can be made at either branch in Morrisville or Stowe or Mailed to: TD Banknorth, P.O. Box 279, Morrisville, VT 05661.
And of course the passing of positive spirit and prayer are the most appreciated ways to share. Positive energy produces positive results!
Benefit events are in the planning stages. As soon as we have more concrete plans, we will post it here. Stay tuned......
Jen
Sat Jan 10th friends of the Sudols gathered to show Gary and family their support. In that one evening $250 was collected for "gas money" to help with trips to Burlington and Boston. Thanks All!
A meal schedule has been established to provid healthful easy meals. There is nothing nicer than to come home from a long day and have dinner ready. Contact Jen at jecca88@comcast.net if you'd like to contribute.
Once Gary and Mary Ellen decide where Gary's treatments will take place, we will devise a driving schedule for anyone interested in helping drive Gary to his daily appointments if they plan on doing them in Burlington.
A trust has been established at TD Banknorth to assist them financially while Gary is out of work. Simple donations can be made at either branch in Morrisville or Stowe or Mailed to: TD Banknorth, P.O. Box 279, Morrisville, VT 05661.
And of course the passing of positive spirit and prayer are the most appreciated ways to share. Positive energy produces positive results!
Benefit events are in the planning stages. As soon as we have more concrete plans, we will post it here. Stay tuned......
Jen
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Your "other" family
Gary and Family,
I'm sure I speak for the rest of the MMSP and extended family that not a day goes by that we don't send positive thoughts your way. Please let us know if there is anything we can do, we will keep posted on your progress through this site and know that you are missed on the hill.
Your "other" family,
MMSP
Posted by Brian Bast
I'm sure I speak for the rest of the MMSP and extended family that not a day goes by that we don't send positive thoughts your way. Please let us know if there is anything we can do, we will keep posted on your progress through this site and know that you are missed on the hill.
Your "other" family,
MMSP
Posted by Brian Bast
Saturday, January 10, 2009
Good Luck Pot Luck
What a fabulous show of support! It was so great to see so many friends, and hear the well wishes of those that could not attend. It is amazing what all of our positive spirit can do. Thanks to the Isabelles for hosting!
Gary's Gas Money
Okay...
Today I was leaving the mountain when I discovered $30 laying on the ground right in front of my car. I looked around, there was no one. Of course I got super excited. I called to brag to my mom and she was like "Oh, that can go towards Gary's gas money fund." I was greedy for a second and then realized he would put it to better use than me- any extra money I seem to get my hands on goes to support the Burlington restaurants or bars. I think shrinking a tumor is a much more productive place for the money to go- this is so Gary can get proper treatment. So now my conclusion is it would be a good idea for anyone who is supporting Gary and his family to consider found money to be Gary's Gas Money. I hope you all happen to be very lucky over the next few months!
-Kali (Betsy's Daughter)
Today I was leaving the mountain when I discovered $30 laying on the ground right in front of my car. I looked around, there was no one. Of course I got super excited. I called to brag to my mom and she was like "Oh, that can go towards Gary's gas money fund." I was greedy for a second and then realized he would put it to better use than me- any extra money I seem to get my hands on goes to support the Burlington restaurants or bars. I think shrinking a tumor is a much more productive place for the money to go- this is so Gary can get proper treatment. So now my conclusion is it would be a good idea for anyone who is supporting Gary and his family to consider found money to be Gary's Gas Money. I hope you all happen to be very lucky over the next few months!
-Kali (Betsy's Daughter)
Info for Anyone Who Wants to Post
The login email is: shrinkgarystumor@gmail.com
and the password is: sudolfamily
Directions:
1)Go to shrinkgarystumor.blogspot.com
2)Sign in
3)Click the new post tab
4) Add a title
5) Say what you want to say
6) Sign your initials or name
7) Click publish post
8) View post
That's it!
and the password is: sudolfamily
Directions:
1)Go to shrinkgarystumor.blogspot.com
2)Sign in
3)Click the new post tab
4) Add a title
5) Say what you want to say
6) Sign your initials or name
7) Click publish post
8) View post
That's it!
Gary's Tumor story
He went in to Copley on Christmas day complaining of having a hard time speaking his thoughts in full sentences. We thought that maybe the kick in the eyeball while sparring at TaeKwonDo a few weeks early may have had something to do with this symptom. Now we know that was unfortunately not the case. The CAT Scan at Copley showed the mass in his brain and made us go directly to Fletcher Allen to get more information via an MRI. By New Years Eve day Gary had gone through a biopsy operation to find out what type of Tumor he had. The following Monday night, Dr. Penar called to let us know the diagnosis. We are currently set up for 6 weeks of radiation treatment at Fletcher Allen and he will be given pill form Chemo simultaneously. After 6 weeks he will continue the chemo treatment for the next year. He is currently not working, but has the go ahead from Fletcher Allan Doc's to do as much as he feels like he can do. Skiing, working, etc... He will try working a few hours a day this next week while we're around. He may ski if the cold and ice aren't to extreme. This Wednesday we will go to Brigham and Woman's Hospital to see Dr. Peter Black for a 2nd opinion. I recommend googling him to anyone who wants to learn about what Gary is dealing with. Dr.Peter Black + Glioblastoma Brain Tumor brought a wealth of knowledge. - ME
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