April: Lymphoma Awareness and Testicular, Head and Neck and Esophageal Cancer Awareness Month

Posted by ddwaddysmile on April 1, 2013

As the new Spring season unfolds before us, it is a good time to give some thought to the status of your health with as much conviction that many devote to the preparation of their lawns and gardens. Personally, Spring is my favorite season of the year. I am an avid gardener. This Spring will be different. I am preparing for a Stem Cell Transplant and because my immune system will be compromised, I will not be able to indulge in my favorite hobby.

I’ll find someone to take on this task or me, and will enjoy teaching someone else while my body recovers from the transplant.

The goal of Dora’s Lymphoma Smile Project, INC is to have an impact on the morbidity and mortality rates of Lymphoma. Because other cancer’s can impact the lymphatic system, it is also important to bring awareness to these cancers. An abnormal lymph node, may be the first noticed symptom of an underlying cancer.

April highlights Testicular, Head and Neck and Esophageal Cancers. Routine physical exams are essential for early detection of cancers. Most people think more about prostate cancers when thinking about cancer and men. Just as women should routinely examine their breast, men should feel their testicles for any abnormal lumps, and changes in their testicles.

Many people neglect going to the dentist until they have a problem with their teeth. When visiting the dentist, the dentist is not only interested in the health of your teeth and gums, but they also examine the oral cavity for signs of cancer. It is ideal to visit the dentist every 6 months.

Head and Neck cancers include numerous cancers. It is beyond the scope of this page to describe each in detail. It is the essential need for a routine physical that can not be over emphasized.

The Ribbon for Testicular Cancer is Purple. Head and Neck Cancer’s ribbon is Burgundy and White. Esophageal Cancer’s ribbon is Periwinkle.

Save a Life: Be The Match!

Posted by ddwaddysmile on February 23, 2013

No one likes to show the aftermath of Chemo

There are Cancer patients and some others who can benefit from a Stem Cell Transplant. The are two types of transplant, an Auto and an Allo. The Autologous transplant uses the patient’s own cells. The Allogeneic transplant uses a donor’s cell. Donors can be between 18-44 years of age in good health. The process is not as many believe to be a very painful horrific process. There is a great need for donors for people of color. I personally am in need of a Donor’s cells because I have Peripheral T-Cell Non Hodgkin Lymphoma Not Otherwise Specified. My cancer is not responding optimally to chemotherapy It is my only chance for a CURE! Won’t you please consider saving a LIFE? It is the greatest “Gift” of all. Go to your local hospital to inquire about Stem cell donation or go to http://www.BeTheMatch.org PLEASE!

February: Lymphoma Awareness/National Cancer Prevention Month

Posted by ddwaddysmile on February 5, 2013

February is National Cancer Prevention Month. I’d like to keep this simple. There are many resources available in print and online that you can visit to learn about cancer.

What is Cancer: Cancer is a normal cell that becomes abnormal and grows out of control. It then disrupts a tissue, organ and ultimately organ systems.

What causes Cancer?: Many substances outside of the body, but in many cases the cause is not known. Known cancer causing agent are in gasoline,smoke from house fires, cigarette smoke, pesticides, herbicides, viruses and medications.

How can you prevent Cancer?: It is NOT possible to avoid all possible agent that can cause cancer. You should limit your exposures to known cancer causing agents (carcinogens). Here is a list of some preventive measures one can take:

1. Gasoline contains Benzene known carcinogen. Don’t smell it, don’t breathe it in.Don’t let your children put gas in your car or lawn mower.

2. Don’t Smoke, if you do, don’t smoke around your children in cars or their living spaces.

3. Drink alcoholic beverages in moderation if you drink.

4. If you have sex, protect yourself. Sexually transmitted Viruses can cause CANCER!

5. Read your labels on substances you put in or on your body.

6. Check the report of your public water supply. It is available to the public. Have your well water tested.

7. If you grow vegetables at your home, find out what was on your property before your house was built.

Cancer screening is vital. Check with your physician, clinician, community care center and health department to see what cancer screening are available to you at little to no cost. Some of the common screenings are for Cervical, Prostate, Lung, Breast, Colon and Oral Cancers. Physical examinations can check for Lymphomas, Breast, Testicular, Prostate, Ovarian and Skin Cancers. Prevention and early detection is not only less costly, but could increases your chance for a cure or long term survival.

Do not ignore unusual pain, changes in bowel or bladder habits, prolong coughs, changes in speech, chronic hoarseness, changes in moles or warts, difficulty swallowing, changes in breast (male or female), itching, night sweats, unexplained fevers!!!

ALL cancers may affect LYMPH NODES in your body! Knowledge is POWER!