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briamichellewrites · 2 years

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An hour after starting the surgery, the lead surgeon came out looking for Brad. He stood up after hearing his name and he followed the surgeon to an office for privacy. The surgery had been successful. Elliot was waking up from the anesthetic. Unfortunately, as predicted, they were not able to remove the entire tumor. Did that mean more chemotherapy? Yes, it did. He recommended talking to her pediatric oncologist about that.

Elliot was in a little pain and discomfort as she woke up. The anesthetic was wearing off and she didn’t know where she was. Not until she saw nurses and an anesthesiologist, who talked to her. She reminded her that she had just gone through surgery and that what she was experiencing was normal. When she was fully awake, Brad came in and took her hand into his. How was she doing? She was thirsty.

A nurse told her she would get her some water. Besides being thirsty, how was she doing? It felt like she was waking up from a nap. She rubbed her eyes. Did they get all of it? No, they didn’t. They would talk about that later, though. Nurses came in and out to make sure she was recovering properly.

After a few hours, they were able to go home. They were met by her nurse, who asked how she was doing. She was in pain but now, she was just uncomfortable. How bad was her discomfort? It was moderate, like an itch she couldn’t scratch. The nurse would keep an eye on her to see how she was feeling. Was she hungry? Yeah. The three of them went to her kitchen.

Brad stayed with them after asking if that was okay. He didn’t want to be in the way. Yeah, she was fine with him staying. She ate a fruit salad with walnuts and lettuce that he had brought over the day before. While she ate, he messaged Phoenix to give him an update. Bruce came over because he smelled food. He was also curious about what the humans were doing. After spending the day inside, he needed to use the bathroom.

Brad would do that while Elliot got a sponge bath to give them privacy. She was curious about what a sponge bath was, so the nurse explained it to her. It was like taking a regular bath, but without the bathtub. It was commonly used in hospitals for patients who couldn’t get out of bed or had dressings that couldn’t get wet, like hers.

Bruce wagged his tail excitedly because he was going outside! He was getting used to his new surroundings and the new smells. There were still those damn squirrels that taunted him. He barked at them, which made them run but he couldn’t catch them. Before leaving, the human put a jacket over him to keep him warm, along with his leash. He didn’t know why his human bought the jacket for him when she brought it home, but with the cold weather, he was grateful she had.

His coat wasn’t thick enough to keep him warm. The human also had a jacket but he was different. He was still trying to understand humans. They were a lot different than him. Maybe he would never understand them.

Elliot enjoyed her sponge bath. She sat in her underwear and bandages as her body was washed. It was a lot different than an ordinary bath because she didn’t get to soak in water. Within a week or two, she could go back to her usual bath. It was five o’clock in the evening. Though she was tired, she was not yet ready to go to bed. After getting dressed in her pajamas, hat, jacket, and blanket, they went outside on her balcony to look out at the ocean.

The sun was going down and it made everything beautiful. She could hear the birds and the waves crashing on the beach below. In the spring and summer, the beach would be busy with people enjoying swimming, playing, and surfing from dusk until dawn. She was excited to sit outside and watch them. Because of the cold temperatures, people walked along the beach. Some had their dogs and children.

Maybe someday, she could go down there and put her feet in the water. She would love that! Even if the water was cold. She could take Bruce down there and let him run around. He could chase the birds and say hello to the children while running in and out of the water. That would be a dog’s dream! He would be covered in sand and would need a bath but it would be worth it! They could spend an entire afternoon down there and he would run around until he was tired.

Great! Glad to hear that it was successful! Thanks for letting me know. Give Ellie love for us. – Phoenix

After spending a half-hour outside, they went back in because she was cold. Brad and Bruce also came back inside. After taking off his jacket, he put him on her lap. She pet him as he curled up into a ball. His human. He closed his eyes and fell asleep happily. What did she want to do now? What time was it? It was six o’clock. She was ready to go to bed. Brad took the sleeping dog and put him back in his bed. Because she had liquids during dinner, she used the bathroom first.

The nurse positioned her wheelchair beside her bed and locked the brakes. She then moved the armrests out of the way. Using her body weight, she stood up with the nurse holding on to her sides in case she fell. She turned around while holding onto the chair for balance before sitting down. Her legs were then placed up and the covers were placed over her.

Brad watched because that was a new technique. How did he do it? He lifted her out of the wheelchair onto the bed but he could see that her way was more efficient. It was because it was less stressful on her back. He would have to remember that.

Whoever was helping her could do that to get her in and out of bed, the car, the bathtub, or wherever she was sitting. Her wheelchair was placed beside her bed, so it was ready for the morning. He bent down and told her he would be a phone call away. The nurse told her she would be back tomorrow. Okay. They both said goodnight to her. Good night. The boys were thrilled to hear that the surgery had been successful!

Brad had given Phoenix more information, which he also shared. Elliot had just gone to bed when he left. He was shown a better technique for getting her in and out of her wheelchair by her nurse, which he wanted to share with them. She was going to need more chemotherapy because they were not able to get the entire tumor.

Elliot was not wanting to talk about it because she was tired from surgery. I completely understand that and will talk about it with her later when she’s fully rested. Her nurse and companion will be over tomorrow, so I’ll check on her on Saturday afternoon and ask if she wants to talk. It will give her time to rest. – Brad

Phoenix got a good view of Mike’s backside every night while on stage. He wanted to grab him and love him until they were both exhausted but they couldn’t. They encountered teasing from their band members but it was all in good fun. Whenever he saw him smiling and laughing, it made him love him more. They did have their private moments where they shared a kiss and an I love you. Soon, they would be home and they would have complete privacy!

@zoeykaytesmom @feelingsofaithless @alina-dixon

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thethyroidrelation · 3 years

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Finding a good endocrinologist is one of the best things you will do for your thyroid health.

Searching for an endo (Endocrinologist)…

After my thyroid surgery, I was automatically referred to an endo by my medical insurance. The doctor was in Scottsdale, Arizona while I was located way out in West Phoenix. For my health absolutely it was worth driving the 40 miles each way to visit him, but with the pandemic and all the issues happening in 2020, I found it would be better to find one closer to me.

I did my research, I googled the best endocrinologists in Goodyear, Arizona or 15 miles from here, I looked at their Google reviews, I went onto my health insurance website and looked at reviews on there, I looked at the doctor’s website, checked out the endo and how long they had been caring for patients with thyroid issues and especially patients who had just had a thyroidectomy and would need lifetime care.

I didn’t know what I was doing. Hell, I didn’t get much of an explanation about what this would mean to me for the rest of my life. I needed someone who really cared about the future of their patients. This entire process has been very enlightening, like getting hit with a bat in the face and seeing stars. I finally understood that it is not up to the surgeon or the endo to tell you how something is going to affect the rest of your life, you have to find out for yourself. The information you receive about how you should take care of yourself and what’s coming next is about 1/3rd of the information you actually need. Use the power of the internet, find like-minded people, join support groups, and ask questions, so many questions. That’s the only way you will make yourself feel better.

Finding an endo….

So after a lot of research, I found the endo that I was certain was going to help me get through the first stages of my life without a thyroid in the best way possible. This endo has 5-star reviews, people just praising the way she changed lives and helped them through their situations. So I booked my appointment. I had my little journal ready to write down notes, I had questions I was ready to ask because I didn’t know what I needed to do to lose weight and that was forefront on my mind at the time. This was before I felt like shit, I still had hope I was always going to feel even half the amount of energy I still felt so I was genuinely naive about the whole thing.

The day of my appointment comes and I leave work early so that I can drive straight to the endo’s office and get there a little early to fill out paperwork. I get there and I notice the building is nice and I can tell this office has good visitation so that makes me feel even better about my choice to come here. Everyone looked happy and they were smiling, so I kept telling myself this is it. Only… I just didn’t feel right. I kept telling myself I was overthinking things which I always have the bad habit of doing so I shut off the voice in my head and waited until my name was called for my turn to be seen.

What the hell kind of endo is this??

After getting my blood pressure checked and being told that my heart rate was at 125bpm and waiting 10 more minutes, in walks a tiny lady who would be my new endo. The endo has a foreign accent and talks very fast so from the get-go I was having trouble understanding her. For privacy, I will call her Dr. Hollis. Dr. Hollis tells me about my blood tests and I know this because she is showing me the physical tests on her laptop although I can’t understand what she’s saying, I don’t know what any of it means, and she’s not slowing down to explain it either.

Then she stops and starts scrolling through my chart and I see her eyebrow perk up and she looks at me and says “you had thyroid cancer, why aren’t you taking care of yourself, your blood tests are unacceptable!” Holy Shit I almost had a meltdown in that room. It took everything in me not to get up and flip her off and walk out of that room.

I answered pissed off and if I could have chopped off her head with my eyes I would have. “I am here because I don’t know anything about my condition, and as my endocrinologist, you are here to help me figure this out right?” Wow, talk about a match made in patient/doctor relationship heaven. That conversation set the tone for a year of care from her. In that year, I saw her 6 times. She had my thyroid medication Synthroid dose at 175mcg, and to counter the heart rate I was on 25mg of Atenolol. She would not lower my dose of Synthroid because all she would tell me was that the “cancer would come back” if my dose was lowered.

When I can no longer ignore my negative relationship with my doctor…

In October of 2019, I met with the endo to review my latest set of blood tests and she gave me the grim news that it looked like cancer had returned. Can you imagine the horror I felt when she said that to me? My blood tests were showing something in my blood so I was probably going to go through radiation again and if that didn’t work I was going to have to have neck surgery and remove any lymph nodes left and any tissue that may be lingering in my thyroid bed. I mean it was just that cut and dry. Again, when I would ask her to explain things to me it would take extra dedication from me to sit and listen intently and ask extra questions about what I THINK she was telling me because she was hard to understand. She told me I would need to do another Radioactive Iodine Uptake Test and depending on the results I would need to do radiation. I stopped her before she could say anything else, I said no.

I told her I would not be doing any more radiation. I was done drinking poison only to feel worse. This was the good cancer it wasn’t supposed to ever make an appearance again. And here I am getting ready for round two. Nope. I was going to do things my way and I would come back to get the MRI in three months. She looked at me and said “ok”. So just OK. An endo who doesn’t try to tell you about why it would be dangerous not to do treatment and go nomad may not have your best interests in mind. Also, a doctor who pushes you to do a certain treatment and does not try to listen to the options you think might work may also not have your best interest in mind. Keep that in the back of your head when being “ordered” to do something.

My family was worried about me. They were worried that I had said no to radiation, but they were also worried if I did do it. They were stuck as I was stuck about this whole thing but I deserved a chance to try something else. I tried a holistic approach and dedicated the next 3 months to meditation and cleansing my body of toxins. I scheduled the MRI after 3 months and it came back cancer-free. No cancer cells showed up. It is February of 2021 and to this day I have not had to do radiation again and I hope to keep that going.

After that, I switched to another endo. When she told me that there was a great possibility that I would have to do radiation again, everything about her energy gave me NO HOPE. NONE AT ALL. I don’t need anyone like that in my life and none of you do either. I removed her negativity and surrounded myself with the help and love of those who believed in me. If your endo isn’t someone you can count on, I hope you have a way of finding one who is a blessing and not a burden to you.

Finding an endo that cares enough to stop me from giving myself a heart attack…

Again I looked for a year for an endo. My thyroid medications had refills so I wasn’t worried about getting those, but I knew it was probably time to get my blood checked again. I needed to make up my mind about an endo. I had found one that I was feeling good about, but after this nightmare experience, I was afraid of what I was going to walk into.

When I finally met my new endo, he was the complete opposite of what I had experienced. He took his time to answer my questions and took blood tests on the spot. I have a confession to make, because I was never able to get any help with the chronic fatigue I was experiencing, I started taking Armour thyroid along with my Synthroid. I did this all on my own out of desperation and didn’t think that I was probably killing myself. I told my new endo this and he was naturally alarmed. I had lost a great amount of weight, I couldn’t sleep at all, I was shaky all the time but the worst part was my heart. I was putting myself at risk of heart failure and I didn’t even know it. I felt really stupid.

He has helped me realize the importance of my situation, and I no longer take any medication without a prescription from him first. Finding this endo has helped me understand why my dose needed to be lowered and how keeping me at such a high dose was putting me at risk of death already. I am not 100% better but I do feel a lot better now. It’s a work in progress but now I have hope where before I didn’t. The doctor also explained to me that my situation with cancer is not one that will just disappear which was how it was explained to me before. I will always need to find ways to keep it at bay… that is my realistic future and that’s the type of honesty that your medical providers need to give you. Everyone is different and no situation is the same so although I don’t doubt my previous endo was and is great for her patients now, she was not the one for me.

Your endo is very important to your well being. The endocrinologist has the power to stunt your progress or make it grow by leaps and bounds so ask questions freely and openly, let him/her know how serious you are about your personal situation and that you want to be actively involved in getting better.

Find an endocrinologist in your area:

AACE - Find an Endocrinologist Near You

Find an Endocrinologist

#endocrinologist #hyperthyroidism #hypothyroidism #Thyroid #Thyroid Cancer #Thyroid Awareness Month #Thyroid Eye Disease #Thyroid Hormones #Thyroidectomy

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arizonalasikusa · 3 years

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Get Freedom from Glasses and Contacts Trough Lasik Eye Surgery

Lasik Offers Lifestyle Benefits

Good vision is important for carrying out our daily activities. However, with age and lifestyle, vision quality decreases giving rise to problems such as near-sightedness, far-sightedness and astigmatism. Glasses and contact lenses can help manage these problems, but are highly inconvenient.

Glasses are bulky and uncomfortable, whereas lenses cause eye allergies, itching and discomfort. Lasik eye surgery can correct your vision and will give you freedom from glasses and contacts. You won’t have to worry about your glasses falling off and breaking while playing sports. Your eye sight will become sharper and you will be able to play sports comfortably.

Lasik Eye Surgery Lasik Surgery Gives Rapid Results and Needs Less Recovery Time

Lasik eye surgery is the best and most common solution for refractive errors such as near-sightedness, far-sightedness and astigmatism. Lasik Surgery Phoenix does not cause pain; however, you may experience mild irritation for some time after the surgery. When you consider the several benefits of a Lasik eye surgery, you will find that is a cost-effective procedure, as you will save money on buying glasses and contact lenses.

Lasik eye surgery offers long-lasting results. A very less percentage of people need enhancement surgery with age. As Lasik surgery is done by using a Laser, no incision is needed and hence, no stitches or bandages are required, allowing you to get back to your routine from the next day. As Lasik surgery provides quick results and needs less recovery time, you will be able to see clearly after a few hours of surgery.

Look for a Vision Correction Center with Efficient Technology

For a successful Lasik Eye surgery, consulting top Lasik doctors plays a prime role. A qualified and experienced doctor possess the necessary skills and training to perform a Lasik surgery. The surgeon you choose should be amongst the top Lasik surgeons, of your city and should be knowledgeable and updated on the advancements in Lasik Procedures. You can take referrals for a Lasik surgeon from your regular doctor or from people who have already got Lasik done.

The vision correction center, you choose should possess the latest, efficient and safest technology, along with the best tools and techniques trending for Lasik surgeries. Take your time to research several vision corrections centers and Lasik surgeons before coming to a final decision. Check the success rate of the clinic and the surgeon, to get an idea about patient satisfaction. Even the smallest of surgeries can be intimidating. Hence, your surgeon and his team should be friendly to put you at ease and address your queries and concerns for your satisfaction.

Ultimately, your goal while selecting a Lasik surgeon and correction center should be that you are in safe and experienced hands. When you are sure that you have made the right decision, you can rest assured that your Lasik eye surgery will give you excellent and long- lasting results.

Moretsky Cassidy Lasik Vision Correction center, strives to give you all the necessary information that you need to make the right decision. The highly experienced and qualified surgeons along with the latest technology for, are committed to provide optimal eye sight for your through the highest quality of skills and care.

#Lasik Eye Surgery #Vision Correction Center

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keladryhawklight · 3 years

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A Morning Interrupted

She hummed as she worked, elbow deep in surgery, a soft hymn of the Light that she often sung Tali when the babe could not sleep. It was one that resonated with adoration, love, and warmth within the reach of the Light; a song about the love that was found under the northern star, and the warmth that followed with the return of the suns guiding rays. It was one of Tali’s favourites, one that was oft sung now that the harvest season was approaching. Her green eyes often shone with the insatiable curiosity of the small, when they ventured into the Cathedral during the service hours to listen to the choir sing.

It was an odd spectacle, given that she was currently midway through an amputation.

The soft beeping of a machine interrupted her thoughts. “Status?” she asked quietly, not pulling her eyes away from the exposed tendons, veins and muscles before her. Her hands however, paused, waiting for the answer to follow.

“The patient is holding steady, and remains completely anesthetized,” came Ivan’s voice from just behind her, confident and sure. They worked together often, he a silent observer to the artistry that followed. “Please record,” she requested, her voice soft but sure. “Patient arrived in the Stormwind Military Medical Hospital after an injury obtained in the line of duty in the Arathi Highlands while mine-clearing. The patient has suffered full loss of their right hand, and a partial loss to both the radius, and ulna. Evacuated by the 39th Gnomish Bomber Squadron via GN-47 Phoenix rotary wing aircraft to Stormwind City, the patient has since been in a critical state of unconsciousness. The decision to undergo a transradial amputation was made on behalf of the patient to preserve life, as medical staff in-field were unable to prevent loss of hand and lower arm.” Continuing to sever, stitch, and save the nerve connections as she spoke, her focus was hawklike as she watched for instabilities and excess bleeding in her work. “The patient will retain the ability to use the arm via use of prosthesis,” she continued quietly. “Beginning at the safest point of amputation, anterior and posterior skin flaps were formed, each about equal to one half of the diameter of the patients forearm; the patient experienced no excessive trauma to the point determined, and the surgeon was able to clamp, doubly litigate, and divide both radial and ulnar arteries proximally without any concerns. The three nerves of concern; radial, ulnar and median nerves were all unaffected long-term by the explosive ordnance explosion, and were also able to be mostly saved. Patient may experience pain once the anesthesia wears off, as the nerves recover, but the long-term effects are minimal.” Setting her tools aside, she contoured the sharp edges of bone with a filer, grinding the edges smooth, so that the patient would not have longer pain then absolutely necessary. When they met her satisfaction, a socket of sorts had been constructed for the patient, one that would more than suffice to hold the newer models of Mechagnomish prosthetics. With a quiet smile, she set the filer, and began to gently divide the remaining living flesh to the newly crafted socket; first with the tissues, followed by the leftover muscles, placing a drainage tube to assist with the recovery, and finally contouring the skin to seal it all together. Her stitches were quickly done, neat and tiny. There would be a scar, no doubt, but she had done her best to ensure it would heal as best she could make it. The chances of infection were high in amputations, but the tidiness of her work did much to ensure that it would be minimal at best.

“Recheck sats and vitals, Ivan,” she asked quietly. “Holding steady, Brightmaul,” came the just as quiet reply.

He had pulled through the surgery; but the recovery would be just as traumatic, she more than knew. “Would you dress the wounds, please? I will update the surgical notes, and post recovery for the on-call physiotherapists after this,” she requested, knowing well that she did not have to worry. “Please ensure the staff are cognizant of his post-surgical status, and monitor him through the recovery process. I do not anticipate our soldier being in a peaceful frame of mind after the trauma that happened this night, and would like to ensure that the work I have just spent the last few hours on is not completely for waste.” As Kel made her way out of the surgical suite, she tugged off her scrub cap. The dark blue scrubs were wrinkled, only slightly stained with blood this time. She rolled her chin back and forth as she walked, stretching out the post-surgical stiffness. Her boot tapped the swinging door to the office area; she was almost home free when she stumbled into apparent chaos. “Mixwidget, it’s far too early for whatever chaos you’ve been a part of,” she drawled quietly, the Westfallian hints shining through in her voice. To Honstire, she asked, “And you.. a new recruit?”

#role play #roleplay #wow rp #oc rp #world of warcraft #fortyseventh #forthseventhrp #alliance rp #world of warcraft roleplay #alliance army #moon guard military #moon guard alliance #moonguard #medical rp #alliance medical

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arizonacataract-me · 4 years

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Is Your Vision Suffering From Cataracts?

The gradual changes in eye vision can often go unobserved if you do not have regular eye checkups. If you are the age of 60 years old and above, your vision may be suffering from a cataract. If you are thinking of that you have to live with an inferior vision your whole life. Even though, cataract affects half of the Americans by age of 65 and above. In Arizona Cataract Surgery has been performed to help patients to restore their clear vision. This surgery is considered a safe and effective procedure when performed by experienced doctors. After this surgery, many patients experienced a quality of vision that is even better than before.

What Happens During Cataract Surgery in Arizona?

The Cataract Surgeon in Arizona utilizes the latest advancement in cataract surgery. The modern cataract surgery in Arizona is performed through a small incision. A small instrument is inserted through this tiny incision and is used to break the cataract into small pieces before its removal. Modern surgery is performed without any stitches or rarely with one stitch. There are many benefits to a minor incision including:

Faster recovery time with less pain.

Less need for glasses after surgery.

Reduced risk of infections after surgery.

Less blood loss.

Less tissue injury.

Less expensive than traditional surgery.

The Cataract Surgery Process in Arizona (Phacoemulsification)

After an eye is anesthetized the cataract surgeon will make a small incision through a small tool in your eye about 3mm wide. Modern-day Cataract Surgery in Arizona is referred to as micro-surgery because the incision size is so small. Once the incision is made the surgeon will insert the probe to break the cloudy cataract and then remove it safely. The suction tube will remove all the loose debris and the capsular bag is prepared for the artificial IOL implant. The folded IOL is then inserted into the tube and then unfolds once in place. When the cataract is removed and IOL has been placed, the light once can travel again to the back of the eye and focus on the retina where the image is transmitted to the brain. The result is a successful and clear vision.

What Type of Lens Implants for Cataract Surgery?

During Cataract Surgery in Phoenix, the cloudy lens of an eye is replaced with a clear lens. You need to discuss what type of lens implant you want to decide on for your surgery. Now patients have options regarding their lens implants. Additionally, the mono-focal lens implants provide vision to only one distance. But the premium lens implants that allow patients to see, near, far and intermediate distance.

In conclusion:

At Arizona Cataract, we offer a wide variety of lenses for you to choose from to make sure you achieve the desired visual outcome. Our best doctors and surgeons will help you to guide what would be best for your vision. Look at our website @ arizonacataract.com for further information.

#ArizonaLaserCataractDoctor #PanoptixlensimplantsPhoenix

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oscardelassalas · 4 years

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Before the craze we are experiencing today, basically, few months back one of our top local writers and incredible editor sent me a message, with URGENT matter.

I was very suspicious of an URGENT matter, very much so. I thought, well, she might have to attend a gala, a cocktail brunch, or a meeting, or new headshots, and/or a trip to the Caribbean and has no idea to what to buy, what to wear, what to take with her. You know, this is been all my life, yup!… Worse than a surgeon!

I get all these calls with much urgency, as you know fashion is not only a matter of self-expression, trend or what people would think of you. It is also a matter of financial position, and respect.

So, I sent an email back, and she said that I was one of the “selected” local personas to be interviewed for the annual book WHERE, that is distribute all over the state.,…So, I said WHERE? to be WHERE?

I have two other interviews on the print and the web sites, of WHERE Magazine:

This one? the annual 2019 book? never!

So, this is the printed version. I’ll get you a copy If you want,

but since space is tight on that type of publication, there is the entire interview ;

WHERE TRAVELER Magazine: Oscar De las salas

Here is the link;

PART ONE

https://www.wheretraveler.com/phoenix-scottsdale/advice/phoenix-visionary-oscar-de-las-salas-design-what-i-do

Can you give me a 3-4-sentence bio about you?

When it comes to fashion and style, Oscar De las salas has it in spades.

Oscar is one of the Phoenix Metro area’s most recognizable dapper dressers, outspoken fashion critic, and design trends advisor. A skilled architect and interior designer, Oscar manages opportunity development for Gensler’s Phoenix office and likes to keep the pulse of his Arizona community through his continued involvement with non-profit organizations.

Despite the voluminous CV, De las salas can sum up his wide-ranging talents in one simple phrase: “Design is what I do.”

You are an advocate of the community in Metro Phoenix—why?

I landed here 20 plus years ago with four suitcases and knowing only one person who had opened the doors of his home to me for a short period of time. After much debate on returning to Europe where I still had studies to complete, what I had discovered in this desert was an evolving art, fashion and design community. Because of the city’s creative potential, I took a chance and continued to grow within a vibrant city.

I had spent contemplating whether or not Phoenix was for me. It took me quite some time to realize that the city offered plenty of creative outlets and design opportunities – both of which I was looking for to help me contribute to Phoenix’s urban progression. With this, I decided to lend all my talents to make that change.

Because of my passion for design and affinity for all things style and fashion, I became deeply engraved in being part of the transformation of a thriving urban center. I strongly believed that I could put my skills, talents and interest in the development of Metro Phoenix and give whatever I am able to give.

My continuing advocacy to this town is my own way of saying thank you to a community that accepted me wholeheartedly. With plenty of opportunities, I feel like there’s still so much more to do and I hope that we, the Phoenix community, can continue what we have accomplished so far. There really is so much more to do!

What are some of your favorite causes here in town?

My husband, Gary, and I talk about this all the time.

To share a story, we had experienced a shameful and bigoted behavior from a local during the most special of all days – our wedding. However, we realized that we had so much support and positive energy by the most wonderful and inspiring individuals in this community. This experience of ours made it our goal to prevent individuals to experience to same. Our focus was to make a positive impact on the next generation. My husband and I chose to advocate for the freedom and support the youth in our community – the freedom for our LGBTQ community and the constant vigilance for equality in our society.

We are also inspired by the often overlooked world of arts and the importance of creativity as a form of individual expression to the health of any community. Our passions diverge slightly with my focus on the applied arts as an architect and designer, while Gary in the performing arts being a former singer/actor. But we are joined by our belief in the importance of arts to the future of our youth. So we tend to support initiatives which orbit these two worlds.

Ultimately, we truly believe that our children will listen to what we say and will learn from what we show them. Supporting the full scope of their education, including arts and personal expression, as well as ensuring that they are provided with a healthy environment (both physically and mentally) is the best and only hope of having a stronger, better future.

Our contributions to organizations like 1in10,

Big Brother/Big Sisters of Central Arizona,

Valley Youth Theater,

Phoenix Children’s Hospital,

Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art (SMoCA),

plus our support of visual and performing arts, bring the focus to the best of us – to the kids.

You are what people label a trendsetter—very fashionable! Why is fashion important to you?

At a young age, my father always thought me the importance of always being presentable – this as one of the many other valuable lessons in life he taught me. My mother, a true fashionista (even before the word became popular in social media terms) used fashion to speak for herself and fostered fashion to cultivate intellectuality and manners.

Those two elements combined – discipline and aesthetics – helped create the Oscar that I am today.

Fashion is a way to tell a story about yourself without talking, and style as a way to express who you are before the first letter is even written about you. I tend to think that I reside on the latter. A trendsetter is someone who someone who creates his/her style pending on the waves created by the fashion industry. I stay firm with my clean, simple and comfortable style – with moments of rebellion and loud tones. Because hey! Fashion is an expression of who you are and how you feel.

What fashion trends are you seeing for the Valley for 2019-2020?

It seems that we are continuing to enjoy the polished tapered silhouettes for men and women, with the trend of oversized coats echoing an early 1980s vibe. We will go on and on in admiring new stretch-beaded materials that are see-through, but you will see added heavy embellishments and oversized sleeves for women – I suggest you keep an eye on those as they won’t be hard to miss! I think that they will become huge in the next season. Perhaps adding fringe details and sassy flats for footwear to your ensemble for a high/low silhouette.

Gents will keep with a tapered 1940s look, with the look being refined, elegant, dapper and spiffy. Look for a double-breasted comeback, but short in cut. Trim, short and lots of buttons.

The three-piece suits will be your call to elegance, along with a trimmed elegant mustache for facial hair.

In terms of street fashion, you will spy clashes of pattern-on-pattern with the focus on your pants as the bold fashion statement. To announce this new era, the re-appearance of the coveralls will set the tone (to match the mustache, I presume!), plus we will see men in pleated skirts – I guess for the dudes that are true code breakers.

You’re in the world of architecture. What attracts you to that industry?

Since I was a kid, I’ve always wanted to create, build and make things.

I wanted to build anything that had volume; I wanted to tangle and untangle the pieces, to pull apart then build. Anything that needed coloring, I was ready to figure out colors and patterns. Anything that needed to be put together, I was very eager to see if I am able to do it. Anything that needed to be drawn (like my mother’s changes she wanted from fashion catalogues), I was the type to immediately draw them on a sheet of paper.

My career brought me from hands-on design to project management – another work area I am also passionate about. To be part of the city’s growth and transformation, to pursue business, to bring the best of talents to a city that needs it – that is what drives me. Perhaps, developing business and being participant of the city’s landscape as a whole is where I find myself most comfortable, and I believe that it is a place where I am able to make a difference in my own environment.

From the shape of a city to the smallest details in construction, from the shape of a building to the color of a wall, our world of architecture dictates how we live. I am fascinated with the power of design and more so, the power of architecture.

Trends in Metro Phoenix in architecture?

We will see more and more local businesses looking for branding through the design of their buildings and interiors, looking to have a singular image that is unique and unlike any other company. Businesses will keep pushing for a distinctive look, but will be largely influenced by local flavor leveraging the native materials and sampling construction techniques.

The Gensler Research Institute, the spearhead of our design findings in our office, has a complete chapter about creating design that recognizes local culture and the need of going back to local business. I see the new City heading towards that direction. Visually, the heavy use of black, grey and stark white in terms of contrasting interiors will be the best way to describe the new trend in color for interiors and exteriors. The use of brass and rose tones on hardware, with a heavy mix of rustic shapes and exposed materials (before they are covered and embellished) will happen across industries and not just in restaurants.

Inevitably, the current stage in design is the modern “farmhouse.”I have no explanation for the sudden trend, but it is a powerful trend you’ll see everywhere. Trust me, neighborhoods will change from the kitsch-fabulous, Hollywood-TV-show 50’s ranch homes into a Lego/Monopoly alike “Country Barbie” developments.

Now, do you remember the “everything Tuscan” trend?

Look what happened to it, it phased out quite quickly. I think the modern-farm is just a trend, but here nonetheless it will stay for a while.

In terms of urban developments, the city will try to regain the power of downtown.

The downtowns of the local metro centers will have their own flavor; City of Phoenix, City of Mesa, City of Scottsdale, Town of Gilbert, City of Goodyear, Glendale, etc. This urban transformation will give us a change in proportion of the current skyline, bringing us forward to the ones of the big cities. In the interest of living with everything within walking distance rather than driving distance, Metro Phoenix will definitely change how we live/see our city.

In your opinion, what makes Metro Phoenix a great place to visit?

This is a town with a bit of everything for everyone.

It is a metropolitan city that due to its size and geographical spread, you can either be very involved in the community and meet people, or simply retrench without full disconnection. It is incredibly international with multiple ethnicities and a diversity of cultures. But due to the large footprint of the city, you are likely to barely feel them. There are jewels all over town, but they need to be found!

The weather allows you to enjoy nature for most months of the year, which makes this place perfect for all outdoors activities, including my favorite – hiking. The resorts and spas are incredibly well designed, with unusually extensive vistas to the Sonoran desert, and of course, there are our famous Arizona sunsets– they are absolutely incredible.

The local flavors with a large Mexican influence make this place an incredible source of modern Southwest cuisine. But since many people have moved to town from basically everywhere, there are all sorts of flavors to try with blends of Southwestern foods with foods from every other continent. Truly unique!

What were artist-driven secluded areas are now discovered and part of the urban city, with their own urban language. The Roosevelt District in downtown has flavor and gritty taste of Phoenix, so is the eclectic Grand Avenue Arts District. The city has also large event spaces and arenas, hosting various happenings all year round – from tradeshows to concerts. Phoenix keeps growing and has so much to offer in so many ways. People are warm and welcoming, and will do anything to make you feel home, which is why it makes a wonderful place to visit!

Any favorite spots around town (shops, restaurants or destinations)?

My favorites and the ones I always go to:

Saturday evenings are a must at AZ-88 for the best martinis in town and Hanny’s after a night-out in downtown with a prosciutto, parmeggiano-regianno & arugula pizza.

Hillstone at the Biltmore for Friday lunch, to see the locals kicking off the weekend. Farm & Craft wins for Sunday brunch with their endless ‘mimosas until the ice cube melts’, and anytime is the right time at The Windsor for their towering Reuben Sandwich. If I have time (and am cheating on my diet!), I never pass up Sprinklesin Scottsdale or the Creamstry for a sweet tooth fix.

For coffee, there is nothing like Press Coffee in front of the Phoenix Art Museum – it is so urban! Or close by is Giant Coffee near our famous Burton Barr Library for yes you guessed it, a giant cup of coffee. Now, if I want to venture to Arcadia, I stop at The Henry Restaurant and then swing by Chestnut Fine Food & Provisions for my craving for good pastries.

Any restaurant by the hand of chef Silvana Salcido-Esparza is golden, but my favorite is Barrio Gran Reserva on Grand Avenue. Chef Justin Beckett has two restaurants to pick from, both of which I love: Beckett’s Table on Indian School and 38 Street and Southern Rail on Camelback and Third Avenue. Now If I am looking for spaghetti and meatballs, Mark Tarbell has it at Tarbell’s on Camelback and 32nd Street. But if it is French cuisine, I have to stop at the Wrigley Mansion to visit with my friend Christopher Gross from Christopher’s who by the way will open a restaurant at the Phoenix Sky Harbor Terminal 3, and is remodeling extensively the mansion. He makes incredible pigs feet (yes, pigs feet) and while there, grab a nightcap at Jamie’s Wine Barwith a large selection of champagne. Tres superieur!

For parties and events, we go to Angelic Grove, who have designed a fantastic warehouse event space called The Croft Downtown in the heart of the downtown warehouse district. If I am picking flowers-on-the-go, I go to Amazing Flowers on Central Avenue, south of Camelback.

For my frames and glasses I have to go to local optical experts at Framed- Ewe they have an exquisite selection from all over the world and then you have to stop right next-door at Phoenix General for the perfect local cotton tees and latest artist fashions. If I am looking for furnishings with a twist and modern looks, then I have to venture to Modernique, at Uptown Plaza or scoot down the street to Red Modern Furniture, whose stunning building design gives a preview of what they have to offer.

Now, if I want to go shopping? The luxury wing at the Scottsdale Fashion Square has labels, labels and more labels, but make sure you also stop by Trina Turk & Mr. Turk from Palm Springs who has an incredible resort-style that fits this town so well. To shop local and vintage, Vintage by Misty has an array of anything and everything one should/could/want to wear. If it is for my girlfriends and it is couture, then Roxanne’s Couture is the place to go in Downtown Scottsdale, and if you are into jewels, then JN Jewels by my friend Jacqueline Nerguzian is where I go, and with a very artistic spin Karen Hall Jewelry and her signature crochet technique is amazing. Since I am in Scottsdale, then I have to stop at Scottsdale Quarter to pick-up a suit, or a shirt and tie at SuitSupply. In all candor, I’ve been their Global Ambassador for a few years now since their brand fits my style to a tee!

And lastly, I must always stop at the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art or SMoCA and view the best of contemporary art in the Valley of the Sun. My mission for the last 10+ years as a board member has been to connect locals and visitors to the best of the city and I consider SMoCA to be one of those gems in the valley.

So, this was one of mu favorite interviews to today, as I was able to talk about my life in the city. A place I love and I call home!

Always in style,

~ Oscar

OSCAR,…..in WHERE TRAVEL 2020 annual book! Before the craze we are experiencing today, basically, few months back one of our top local writers and incredible editor sent me a message, with…

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erectiledysfunc · 4 years

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peyronie’s disease doctors near me

Contents

Inhibit sexual activity.

Pacific northwest urology specialists

Scar tissue prevents

Scar tissue develops.

The Urology Center of Colorado offers Peyronie's surgery for men who suffer. Peyronie's disease is an abnormal bend of the penis occurring during an erection .. Our physicians will discuss the treatments they believe will be most effective.

Reconstructive Urologist located in Millburn, NJ. Peyronie's disease, or curvature of the penis, can cause significant pain and greatly interfere with your emotional.

However, Peyronie's disease causes a severe and potentially painful bend that can inhibit sexual activity. The team at pacific northwest urology specialists in.

ED Specialist of Arizona is a professional Urologist that is highly experienced in the diagnosis and treatment of Peyronie's disease in Phoenix, Arizona.

Urologists at Mayo Clinic specialize in treating Peyronie's disease and treat more than 700 men who have this condition each year. Advanced.

Tests to diagnose Peyronie's disease and understand exactly what's. any brochures or other printed material that I can take home with me?

Trusted Peyronie's Disease Specialist serving Houston, TX & Nassau Bay, TX. Visit our website to book an appointment online: Gulf Coast Urology.

peyronie disease is dangerous Ibrutinib 420 mg was administered orally once daily until occurrence of disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. The overall response rate (ORR) and duration of response (DOR) were assessed.

Your urologist will conduct an exam to assess the severity and extent of the scar tissue and abnormal curvature in your penis. You should tell your doctor about any.

Encouraging men to seek help for Peyronie's disease, a condition. “I'm back to 95 percent of what was normal for me before Peyronie's.”. of the Men's Clinic at the University of California, Los Angeles, said in an interview.

peyronie’s disease up to date peyronie’s disease vs normal curvature Generally, a curved penis is only a problem if it causes pain during an erection or makes sex difficult, in which case it might indicate an injury or of Peyronie’s disease.Peyronie’s disease.Peyronie's disease is an abnormal curvature of the penis caused by scar tissue in the erectile tissue. Because the scar tissue prevents straightening of the penis,

The bad side is that they can allow patients to bypass the traditional doctor-patient relationship and its safeguards, creating a dangerous opportunity for drug abuse and/or unchecked medication.

Peyronie's Disease Treatment in Covington, Louisiana. When scar tissue develops. Looking for a Peyronie's Disease Specialist near Covington? If you are.

peyronie’s disease vs normal curvature A change in the curvature of the erect penis is a sign of Peyronie’s disease, which is caused by scarring of the tissues in the penis. The curvature can become so pronounced that it interferes with.

Tinea cruris is not often considered to be a sexually transmitted disease, but skin-to-skin genital. Products for this condition must not be used near the mouth or eyes. Patients should wash.

peyronie’s disease prevalence For 730 men with Dupuytren disease, the surgeons’ reported prevalence rate of Peyronie disease was 7.8 percent and of Ledderhose disease was 16.1 percent. The participants themselves reported prevalence rates of 8.8 percent for Peyronie disease and of 22.0 percent for Ledderhose disease.peyronie’s disease at 21 Peyronie’s disease causes abnormal, fibrous lumps (plaques) to form inside the erectile tissue of the penis. Over time, these plaques can grow and deform the erect penis and cause it to curve. Peyronie’s disease usually affects the upper side of the penis, but the disease may sometimes target the.

It is likely that in the near future, advances in the treatment. in understanding more about the nature of the disease itself, how clinical presentation influences treatment, how to identify.

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tatumeyecare · 1 year

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Phoenix Eye Exam: Your Comprehensive Guide to Eye Care in Phoenix

In the vibrant city of Phoenix, taking care of your vision is of utmost importance. Whether you're seeking a routine eye exam or specialized care, this article is your ultimate guide to everything related to eye health in Phoenix. From finding the best eye doctors to understanding the various types of eye exams available, we've got you covered. Let's delve into the world of Phoenix eye care.

The Importance of Regular Eye Exams

Your eyes are the windows to your soul, and they also provide a window into your overall health. Regular eye exams are essential for several reasons:

1. Vision Correction

Phoenix eye exam services include thorough vision tests to identify and correct refractive errors like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. These exams help you see the world clearly again.

2. Early Disease Detection

Many eye diseases, such as glaucoma and cataracts, develop without noticeable symptoms in their early stages. Regular eye exams can detect these conditions early, allowing for timely treatment and preserving your vision.

3. Health Insights

Your eyes can reveal underlying health issues such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and even certain cancers. Eye doctors in Phoenix are skilled at recognizing these signs during routine exams.

Finding the Best Eye Doctor in Phoenix

When it comes to your eye health, choosing the right eye doctor is crucial. Here are some factors to consider when searching for the best eye doctor in Phoenix:

1. Qualifications and Experience

Look for an experienced Phoenix optometrist or ophthalmologist with the necessary qualifications and a strong track record of providing quality eye care.

2. Services Offered

Ensure that the eye doctor offers the services you require, whether it's a comprehensive eye exam, pediatric eye exam, contact lens exam, or specialized care.

3. Reviews and Recommendations

Check online reviews and ask for recommendations from friends and family to gauge the reputation of the eye doctor you're considering.

4. Accessibility and Convenience

Consider the location and office hours of the eye clinic. A conveniently located clinic with flexible hours can make scheduling appointments easier.

Types of Eye Exams Available in Phoenix

Phoenix offers a wide range of eye exams to cater to different needs:

Comprehensive Eye Exam

A comprehensive eye exam in Phoenix includes a series of tests to evaluate your vision and eye health. It is recommended for individuals of all ages as it provides a thorough assessment of your eyes.

Pediatric Eye Exam

Pediatric eye exams are designed for children and focus on detecting and treating vision issues early in life. These exams are essential for ensuring your child's visual development.

Contact Lens Exam

If you wear or are considering contact lenses, a contact lens exam is necessary. This exam measures your eye's curvature and determines the right type of lenses for you.

Glaucoma Test

Glaucoma is a serious eye condition that can lead to blindness if left untreated. Regular glaucoma tests are essential, especially if you have a family history of the disease.

Cataract Screening

Cataracts are common among seniors. Regular cataract screenings help in the early detection of this condition, allowing for timely surgical intervention.

Retina Specialist

A retina specialist in Phoenix is an expert in diagnosing and treating conditions that affect the retina. If you have retina-related issues, consult a specialist for the best care.

Laser Eye Surgery

For those seeking to reduce their dependence on glasses or contact lenses, laser eye surgery offers a permanent solution. Consult with a trusted Phoenix eye surgeon for more information.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How often should I get an eye exam?

You should have a comprehensive eye exam at least once every two years. However, if you have certain risk factors or eye conditions, your eye doctor may recommend more frequent visits.

Are pediatric eye exams different from regular eye exams?

Yes, pediatric eye exams are specially designed to evaluate the unique visual needs of children. They often involve child-friendly tests and techniques to ensure accurate results.

What should I expect during a glaucoma test?

A glaucoma test typically involves measuring your intraocular pressure and assessing the health of your optic nerve. It's a painless procedure that helps in early glaucoma detection.

Is laser eye surgery painful?

Laser eye surgery is generally not painful, as numbing drops are used to ensure your comfort during the procedure. Some discomfort or dryness may be experienced in the days following surgery.

Can I drive after a comprehensive eye exam?

In most cases, you can drive after a comprehensive eye exam, as your eyes may only be dilated temporarily. However, it's a good idea to bring sunglasses to reduce glare and light sensitivity.

What is the cost of a comprehensive eye exam in Phoenix?

The cost of a comprehensive eye exam in Phoenix can vary depending on the provider and the services included. On average, it may range from $75 to $150.

Taking care of your vision is a lifelong commitment, and Phoenix offers a plethora of options for eye care. Whether you're in need of a routine eye exam or specialized treatment, the city boasts experienced eye doctors and state-of-the-art clinics to cater to your needs. Remember, regular eye exams are the key to maintaining clear vision and detecting eye conditions early. So, schedule your Phoenix eye exam today and prioritize your eye health.

Tatum Eyecare is North Phoenix’s premier family eye care center. We’ve spared no expense to create the most pleasant, comfortable patient experience… including the finest furnishings, the best selection of prescription eyeglass frames, the most cutting-edge technology, and the most outstanding team of industry professionals. Come see why the choice for family eye care in the Valley has never been clearer.

#Phoenix eye exam #Eye test in Phoenix #Best eye doctor Phoenix #Phoenix optometrist #Affordable eye exam Phoenix #Vision test Phoenix #Comprehensive eye exam #Phoenix eye check-up #Cheap eye exam Phoenix #Eye examination Phoenix #Same-day eye exam Phoenix

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dancingbeyondcancer · 5 years

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Chapter 06 - Dancing Beyond Cancer - Not So Honeymoon

Chapter 6 -------- Not So Honeymoon

Danielle and I both had the entire weekend off. We were fully expecting to spend a nice quiet weekend with each other, certainly nothing too crazy. It was supposed to be a micro honeymoon, but it had turned out far different than either of us could have expected. It was a far wilder experience than I could have ever imagined. The day after the surgery was anything but a honeymoon.

I was grateful that I was able to stay with Danielle in the hospital for the weekend. I was able to be by her side almost twenty-four hours a day except for when I grabbed some food. I know it made it easier on her to have me there with her. We were in a huge brand-new hospital with the staff being especially attentive and kind. Everything felt new, and peace surrounded us.

As I mentioned, there was a beautiful garden in the center of the hospital where we were married. The building was several stories tall and located on the North Side of Scottsdale, which is the upper-class area of Phoenix. I’ve never been a huge fan of hospitals, but this one wasn’t bad in my book. It felt like at least we had our little honeymoon suite. We had privacy and some space in the room, even though we weren’t expecting to be there this weekend, it wasn’t the worst place to spend time recovering.

I was also happy because there was a Sprouts Grocery Store down the street where I knew I could buy Danielle fresh organic juice once she could start eating again. I went to the store and purchased all the organic fruit packets I could find. I bought her fresh-squeezed juices and made sure to have some organic oatmeal too. Danielle was very strict about her diet before her diagnosis, so after this occurred, the dietary regulations became even stricter. She had some knowledge of proper diets because she worked as a health assistant for some time with a local MD/ND. The hospital food was far from anything that Danielle would even consider consuming. I did end up making several trips that weekend to purchase everything that she needed.

The first day went as expected, beginning with the nurses waking us up early for the shift change. So far, we had had very nice and helpful nurses. Most were talking to us about chemotherapy because my wife was constantly asking questions. I too had a long list of questions of my own. Most of the advice that we received said to get started as soon as possible. I was a bit concerned about starting treatment so early. Danielle expressed a lot of reservations about any treatment.

From my research, I found that chemotherapy basically stops the division of cells, the hope being that the cancer cells die off first because they have a quicker metabolic rate than our normal cells. I also realized that it stops all cell division, which means it should also halt the healing process. My wife was recovering from the most intense surgery that a woman can receive, she was in great pain, and preparing for several weeks to a month of convalescence. We each had our concerns about what to do next, and we were waiting for answers from the Doctor.

The doctor arrived around 8 am to talk to us about the surgery. We had been anxiously waiting and were nervous beyond all belief. He was a very pleasant and professional surgeon, very truthful and forthcoming with his answers. He immediately told us that it was Cancer when he opened her up. The Doctor was surprised to hear that Danielle remembered anything after the surgery. He told us that no one ever remembered what he told them after they came out of anesthesia. Which is why he told me I would have to tell her. He sat for a moment in amazement at the revelation. The Doctor even asked if she was a trained government agent, she just laughed and said nothing, as he proceeded to explain the surgery.

He explained that he had to make two incisions that went across and up her abdomen. He opened her up and performed the full hysterectomy. Additional exploration showed several inflamed lymph nodes, but there weren’t any significant signs that it had spread. I trusted his words as this was what he did as his specialty; we all felt confident that he had removed any visible signs of cancer. He didn’t consider surgery alone to be enough for her survival. He was dropping the big news bomb on both of our days. He told us that without chemotherapy, she would survive less than a year. This was a big blow to Danielle and a reality check. We were devastated.

Immediately we had questions for him. We were foremost concerned with the side effects of the chemotherapy. Danielle had a bit of a complicated medical history. For my wife, this was also not the first time that she had faced a terminal disease or a life-threatening prognosis. She had at one point in her life suffered from Lupus and Addison’s disease, but both had gone into remission and no longer affected her. She suffered from some problems because of the disease and had to take cortisol, a synthetic hormone, that assisted her when she had Addison’s disease, and her adrenal glands failed. If the lupus were to return, it would cause additional complication.

Another problem being that if she started throwing up and didn’t control it quickly, she would continue to vomit until death. Throwing up might require immediate medical attention. Vomiting and Nausea are the two main side effects of chemotherapy. When we asked the doctor what we should do about this, he said not to worry there were medications to help with that despite Danielle’s reservations about not responding well. The Doctors final recommendation was to try the chemotherapy and see what happens.

My wife and I had discussed before he came in what options we would consider. We both had very strong feelings against full blown chemo. However, the doctor had previously mentioned that there were less harsh versions now available depending on the outcome. I didn’t understand what he meant; this was new news to me. We were hoping the doctor was going to discuss the other options, but the only option he gave was full blown heavy dosage chemo.

During the surgery, he even installed a port into my wife so that they could pour the chemo into her insides. A more aggressive but potentially more effective method of treating the source of cancer. It seemed like a very intense treatment option. On top of that, Danielle was upset that he installed the port in the first place. It made her feel disgusting having something coming out of her. The port never bothered me, I never felt it took away from her beauty. My concerns were on the source of her cancer.

The Doctor only told us he was looking for genetic markers in the Cancer as he didn’t have any other answers as to what caused it. It would take several weeks to discover the results too. He never showed any sign or concern at the cause of the Cancer. His sole and main purpose was to sell his treatment. Encouraging Danielle just to give it a shot, as he explained it was the only option that would offer her a chance for survival. Trust me when I say that the number of times, he reassured us that my wife would die without doing chemo was disgustingly scary.

I had done my research, and on top of that, I had personally experienced the failed chemo patients at work every week. I heard the horror stories. I saw the struggles many of them faced. The hopelessness in their spouse’s eyes, I still didn’t get it at this time, not fully but I started to understand it. I began to see how hopeless the answers were making Danielle — constantly being reminded by the nurses and doctors that she didn’t stand a chance of survival without chemo.

The backlash from the staff, had us stop voicing our disapproval of the treatment options they recommended. Resistance was Futile. It was a group effort we realized we couldn’t compete against and win. They all had the same programming, and nothing we said was going to get them to think otherwise. Hopefully, this book will.

However, I expressed serious concern that they wanted to start treatment the first week after surgery. It upset me how fast the hospital wanted to start treatment while the recovery was still an issue. The doctor conceded that within the first month was fine, but for some reason, the doctor and staff wanted to push for more aggressive treatment. The doctor told us to expect about a two to three-week recovery time from the surgery and that we should immediately start treatment then. I was also wondering how long she would be in the hospital, and he said it would be another four to five days.

The apprehension continued to mount throughout the first two days. Danielle was uncertain about the answers from the doctor, as she didn’t feel that they took her conditions into account. First, she worried that her past illnesses would resurface if she were to do chemo, and in her condition, those problems could cause life-threatening complications. The only solution that they could provide was a long list of medications they use to combat side effects. It was literally if this is wrong, they give this drug, if this happens, they use that drug.

My wife became repeatedly upset because she would have such bad reactions to medications. She had many in her life already that showed adverse side effects; all pain killers would cause severe constipation, while Advil and Tylenol would cause nausea. Then anti-nausea meds would cause seizers. The doctors were facing a complicated patient, but the treatment never changed, the treatment they used was universal, and they never discussed a single other option. This enraged Danielle. She was furious that they hadn’t offered a single treatment option that took her health conditions into account.

I was still caught up on the lack of discovery process involved in the cause of her cancer. It upset me to have no answers to the potential cause of cancer. It felt like more should have been done to address potential causes of cancer, but that didn’t happen either. I anticipated that there might be toxins or chemicals that may have caused it, but there were no tests, no survey, no investigation whatsoever. I left me so angry that I had a difficult time discussing the issue calmly.

Thankfully I received a little reprieve when my mom and sister arrived. Danielle had several friends visit that Sunday too. It was nice that one of her very close friends lived near the hospital. She was able to come by and show some additional support, often giving me a couple of minutes to take a smoke break. I didn’t want to overwhelm my wife with too many visitors or conversations. I could tell after several minutes that my wife was not responding well to my family’s questions. I didn't find it appropriate to go over traumatic experiences in front of Danielle, putting too much stress on her. Danielle’s friend was visiting, so I was able to excuse the three of us.

I thought that grabbing a burger and watching the football game would be nice to get my mind off things. We coincidentally joined the family friend my mom and sister had driven up with at a local restaurant. His wife was strangely enough in the area, visiting a friend who was losing the battle to Cancer. I couldn’t help but feel life had called us together at that moment for support. Synchronicity was playing its cards again, and I couldn’t help but notice that we were all called to the same restaurant. It was a tough time for everyone, but we found comfort in each other.

I said a big goodbye to my sister because she was leaving to teach in Thailand for the year. My mom was returning home to Tucson 2 hours south of Scottsdale. When I got back to the room, I knew my wife was a little upset about my sister and mother’s comments about her having a full hysterectomy. I never thought they would make such horrible comments.

My mom and sister were concerned about the type of surgery and the type of cancer. After discovering it was ovarian and she had a full hysterectomy they were showing immediate concerns. I knew their concerns were that we weren’t going to be having children. I had to tell them that we were planning on adopting anyway to get them to shut up about the kids. Instead, their response was, “Good to hear; we were so worried about that.” Danielle was beyond upset and couldn’t believe they would comment about my wife not being able to have kids.

I didn’t understand the damage and trauma it caused to Danielle since I’m sure she felt bad enough about being robbed of the ability to have kids. This was a very sensitive subject for Danielle, and a source of much immediate sadness. This experience taught me how important it is to be mindful of what we say, and how we say it. Sadly this was just the first of many insane comments that people would say to Danielle that were completely inappropriate or disrespectful.

After my family left, we were back to dealing with the pain. The surgery left my wife unable to move on her own. The first couple of days involved convincing her to use the medications that the hospital had provided because the MMJ wasn’t strong enough to manage all the pain. The MMJ would help, but it wouldn’t make it go away like some of the prescription pain killers could. She needed to rest, and mixing the medications were helping. Still, her fear of constipation was overruling her need to control the pain; she had a high tolerance for pain. It made more sense to her to handle something that she could manage if it meant that a bigger fear could be averted. Danielle did things her way, and there wasn’t a lot I could do to convince her otherwise.

I went to bed Sunday night dreading Monday morning; I was in for the worst case of the Monday’s ever. The reason I wasn’t looking forward to Monday was that I had to work a ten-hour shift in Sedona on Monday morning. Typically I worked normal forty-hour work weeks with four days on three days off. This week I was in for a little more because I switched shifts to have our honeymoon. I would have to work for the next seven days straight.

Monday morning, we were up around five a.m. The nurses started coming in to check on us around 6. I had already applied the topical pain meds that I had bought. We saw better results every day. I was thrilled that it was making her recovery a bit more pleasant. She was still using an occasional dose of the pain meds they had on a drip. She wasn’t thrilled with how it was making her feel as every dose kicked up her nausea. I had to make a quick run to Natural Grocer’s to pick her up some supplies for the day before heading to work. Danielle needed some organic shampoo and conditioner, as well as some more juice snacks. It had to be quick if I was going to make it to work on time.

I promised that I would be back that evening because I wasn’t going to leave her alone a single night. I made a vow that day to always spend my nights with her. I gathered my things together that I needed for the day, and I was off.

I left early enough to miss rush hour traffic at 7:00 am. It was a little more than an hour and forty-five minutes back to Sedona, and I had to work at 10:00 am. I knew that would give me 45 minutes to an hour to get ready and get to work, which was plenty of time. That day at work was particularly hard, I didn’t say much and wasn’t feeling very talkative. Thankfully it wasn’t a busy day, so I was able to send a bunch of “I love you texts to my wife.” After nine hours, my boss let me out a little early. I did tell him about what had transpired, he sympathized. I grabbed everything I had forgotten to grab in our first crazy trip to Scottsdale. I ran by both of our houses, finishing little chores. We did have several days before Danielle would be home.

After I gathered everything, I was back in the car. I made sure to bring plenty of music with me so that I would stay alert. I’ve done some wild long-distance road trips by myself several times, so this just felt like it was going to be a bit of an extended one. I knew I could do it. Life had prepared me for this challenge with many solo road trips.

I’ll mention a notable few. Once, I drove seventeen hundred miles in less than twenty-four hours, making the trip from the Illinois border to Arizona. I also made a twenty-four-hour round trip to San Diego from Tucson to make it to a family reunion, Sunday was the only day I could get covered at work, so I left after a fifteen-hour shift at 3:00 am, then drove five hours to surprise the family at breakfast. I believe only my sister knew I was coming. Sadly I also had to work the following day. So I spent eight hours with the family took an hour and a half power nap and drove another six-hours home. It may not have always been fun, but it was always worth the trip.

My favorite adventure was a day trip from Tucson, AZ to Los Angeles, a short eight-hour drive each way. All to watch a US vs. Mexico soccer game with my roommates. Knowing full well I had to drive back immediately after the game to make it to my 8 am soccer game the following day. A game that we just so happened to win down three players. I guess you could say that long-distance road adventures have tested my commitments to the extreme, and I knew this was going to be one of my greatest tests of commitment. I committed to being with my wife every night, and I wouldn’t let her down.

The first trip back wasn’t a challenge at all. I was so excited to see my wife that my adrenaline just kept me super alert and super anxious. I sent a text or two to let her know my progress, but after an hour and 40 minutes, I was at the hospital entrance. Still had to take the elevator to level 3 and then go to the other end of the building, but I was just so happy to see my wife.

When we saw each other, we kissed and hugged and cried because we were so happy to be together again. It was about 10:00 pm at this point, but I wanted to stay up with her and talk. She told me how her friend from Phoenix had stopped by to show her support. She also talked about what she was going to do about telling the girls in her dance classes. She didn’t want any rumors getting out. I told her that wasn’t something we needed to worry about right now.

One of her friends and the parent of a student showed up over the weekend and drafted up an announcement while I was having lunch with my family. It didn’t reveal anything other than Danielle was temporarily closing the studio because of health concerns. She knew that it was going to make a lot of people worry because so many saw her as indestructible. It was a miracle she survived most of the events of her life, and many of her friends knew this. Danielle was miraculous in every sense. It always appeared like nothing could keep Danielle down, the cat with nine lives. Danielle never wanted to show weakness to the community, a community that she said loves to spread rumors.

Coincidentally, the friend who was now living in Phoenix had to move away from Sedona to avoid small-town gossip. When people make choices with their lives because they lose a loved one, it isn’t right to expect that person to go back to the way things used to be. Loss changes people, and many choose different paths when confronted with death. Danielle and I were reevaluating our situation faced with our new challenges.

To some, it could be a wake-up call; each of us must choose how we deal with the grief. Support is what people need, and asking inappropriate questions, or making any selfish comments are just unacceptable. Danielle wouldn’t stand for it. Sadly, people are so selfish that they would impose their needs or desires above another person’s. Too often, Danielle would push her desires aside to help others; she was the definition of supportive.

Support comes in many forms, it can be a kind word, showing up for someone, a home cooked meal, it can be a simple compliment, or offering to sit down and listen to someone, and when I say listen, I mean listen. Most importantly, any information which is shared is confidential, and should never flow into gossip. Today people spread crazy rumors to feel better about themselves. It is talking about the worst in people versus encouraging the best.

We don’t compliment random people unless they really stand out, but it’s the people who are not standing out that most need the encouragement. It is the homeless person that needs the reassuring word. We give all our energy to the glitz and glamor of life and compliment the pretty people but forget to compliment the person who is trying and struggling. Danielle would see these people and would offer support.

My wife made everyone feel special. I know that was one of the things I loved so much about her. I would like to believe I made her feel as special as she made me feel. It felt like I owed it to her to make her feel extraordinary. To provide the support and understanding she needed most. I felt beyond protective of her and didn’t want her to experience any additional stress from outside sources. We had enough to deal with at the hospital. She was constantly being scared by the nursing staff, convincing her that she needed to do Chemo.

After my first day back at work, my wife’s attitude towards chemo was already shifting. I was a little concerned, although I figured it wouldn’t hurt to get some more information. That night I went to bed on the fold-out couch as I had over the weekend. It was just nice to be with her and show her the support she deserved. We still had our intimate moments, despite the hellish nightmare we faced. It proved our love was deeper than anything purely physical. We had an emotional connection that neither of us had ever shared with another person in our lives. Neither of us had ever known such genuine love, and she knew at that point that I wasn’t going anywhere.

The next morning, I was up at 6:00 am again. Danielle and I spent an hour with each other. We talked more, and we said a lot of “I love you’s.” However, I had to head back for day two at work, and it was another hour and forty minutes home. I threw on some music for another smooth trip home. I Cleaned up, changed into my work clothes and I was back out the door. At work that day, I did a little research on Chemotherapy.

I started with cancer.gov, which is pro chemotherapy. I looked up all the information I could. The main thing I was looking for was more clarification on potential side effects and what we could expect while going through chemo. We hadn’t received many answers that satisfied my wife or me for that matter. I knew that no matter what we decided, we were going to make an incredibly informed decision. I read all the material that they provided on the website and printed out the information that I thought Danielle would want to read as well.

I thankfully got out of work early the next night as well, and I was heading home quick before going back to Phoenix. I was still feeling good and was ready for another trip back down the mountain. I packed up some snacks and hit the road. At this point, my wife was always anxious and wondering when I would be there. I arrived around 9:00 pm and was able to spend a nice evening rubbing the medicine into her feet. It had become somewhat of a ritual that I would give her a foot massage every time I applied her meds, well since I didn’t use gloves, I guess it was both of our meds.

I know at the time that I did use Medical Marijuana for anxiety, sometimes sleep, and for pain as well. I have used it more often recreationally, but I understood the medicinal benefits as well. The application of the Rick Simpson Oil, it was having a calming effect on me too, which was a good state for me to be of service. Danielle needed me to be calm, cool, and collected, because I was her rock, for the times when she couldn’t be calm and collected.

Four Days after her surgery, she stopped using the prescription meds, she was constipated, which was a common side effect she had from those meds and the anesthesia. She also had developed a bad case of ascites, which is when there is fluid buildup in the abdomen. The doctor recommended that they install a drainage port to take care of the issue. So my wife would have to be put under again for them to install this. I would have to say that the anesthetic they used gave her the worst side effects. The nurses constantly reminded her that it would take several weeks for that to clear the body. It was going to make her feel completely awful all over again having to go through this procedure, and they were going to do it the next day.

That night we discussed a little more about the treatment options. She was becoming increasingly supportive of trying chemotherapy. It was quite the shift for her considering that initially she had said there was absolutely no way that she would be doing chemo, but She didn’t want to tell them that. We felt forced to play along with doing the traditional treatment. Now she wasn’t playing. Danielle was serious about Chemo.

I pulled out the information sheets I found from the American Cancer Society; it was a lot of information. The first and most important thing I thought we should go over is the Side Effect Worksheet that is used to monitor and tell how you are responding to the treatment. It was literally four full pages of nasty side effects such as vomiting, diarrhea, constipation (yeah you can get both apparently), swelling, allergic reactions, and about twelve other side effects that all list levels of severity. We were supposed to use it to track her negative reactions.

Danielle’s immediate response was, “Fuck That.” She proceeded to say that most of the side effects and the main side effects were practically fatal with her pre-existing conditions. If she started throwing up ever, we would have to go to the ER, and they would have to administer a drug that helps her stop vomiting but makes her feel horrible. A coworker and neighbor confirmed to me that he had to take her non-stop puking to the ER one night. He definitely made it sound about two hundred percent funnier than it was, but that was just the type of guy he was, always making jokes.

Danielle and I decided it was probably best not to tell the Nurses that she wasn’t interested in doing chemo. If she did, it was clear that they were going to continue to pressure her into doing it. They practically scared my wife into starting chemo; thankfully, she didn’t succumb to the fear, and her rational mind won over. I should also say that according to the most recent statistics at the time, stated that she only had an eight percent chance of survival with chemo or radiation. I have noticed the statistics have drastically changed to closer to forty percent. Eight percent didn’t inspire hope.

The hospital could not provide most of what my wife needed and didn’t carry chemical-free, organic, or non-GMO food. The hospital couldn’t give her any information on available alternative treatments. They wouldn’t discuss alternative options even though over one hundred different alternatives have been shown to fight cancer in one way or another. I knew it was in Danielle’s best interest to get out of the hospital.

However, we had a problem. Danielle was still constipated. It had been about five days at this point, so it was starting to become a concern. The next day she had to go under for a small procedure, which meant more anesthesia. Creating more worry about the continued constipation as a result. The nurses reminded us that she hadn’t eaten enough to have a bowel movement.

We tried to get some sleep that night, but we both found it rather difficult. Most of our nights had been restless, and by day three of work, I could feel a bit of the emotional exhaustion. I was wiped out, but at least I had the drive and some music always to allow me to re-center myself to be the best I could be for my wife.

The following several days were very similar; I was driving every morning back to Sedona for an eight to nine-hour shift then hopping in the car to drive back to Phoenix to spend the night with my wife. Friday was the big exception, I didn’t work early in the morning, but I also hadn’t gone out looking for a new job either. I was slightly more concerned about making more money at this point. Especially considering we were facing the cost of alternative treatments which is never covered by insurance. I knew I needed to make more money.

I left a little later that morning around ten a.m. to head back and get cleaned up so I could apply to several restaurants. I was completely exhausted at this point and didn’t have the energy for job hunting. I didn’t have an option, and I needed to find a better job. I wished at this point in my life that I had a more stable foundation because much of this additional stress was because of financial need. It was an added stress because we were going to be out her income for several weeks, according to the doctor. I was seeing that it could be even longer than that for her to be able to teach again. So I decided to do what I could.

The first place I applied to was the restaurant at the end of Danielle’s street. I figured the menu and the style of dining was a perfect fit for me. I walked in and asked to fill out an application. I sat down at the bar and started filling it out, soon afterward the owner walked in. I said hi and introduced myself and told her that I had just married Miss Danielle.

Right away, she was impressed and told me that she absolutely loved Danielle. I didn’t feel it was the time to tell her what had happened yet. At once, she gave me the job, but I knew I still had to fill out the application for her records. I was so happy that at least I had accomplished what I came home early to do. I immediately went home for a needed nap before work that day.

After a five-hour shift, I went home. I was truly feeling the exhaustion setting in, and I was starting to worry about the drive. I wasn’t feeling my usual strong, vibrant self. Facing exhaustion, I couldn’t give up now. I hate to admit, but my secret weapon for extended road trips is nicotine or cigarettes typically. I gave up chewing tobacco seven years ago, but it wasn’t until I met Danielle that I was able to kick the smoking tobacco addiction. She made it easy, and after six weeks, I could really use one.

The stress was getting to me, and the need for a cigarette was at an all-time high. I knew I could safely drive anywhere if I had a little nicotine. I broke down and bought a pack of cigarettes. I wanted to keep it a secret and fully intended to give them up as soon as I was done driving like crazy. Loaded with my secret road trip weapon, I made it safely to Phoenix that night.

I brushed my teeth when I arrived and went up to see my beautiful wife. I am sorry I haven’t mentioned it more, but when I say she was beautiful, she was still beautiful. People couldn’t believe how lovely she looked, especially after her surgeries. Danielle always maintained that natural inner attractiveness she had inside. Even though Danielle was tough on herself, she would always get the best compliments from everyone who met her. Most said they wished they looked half as good when they weren’t sick. It was cute but still made Danielle feel like she was still missing some of that allure because of the circumstances.

We had another great evening together, but I also tried to get some rest. I had brought up all the orgonite that I had made and put it in the room. I immediately noticed that I slept better when it was in the room versus when it wasn’t. I made sure to always leave it in the room with Danielle because I’m sure it was helping her too. For those unfamiliar with orgonite, it is a substance that can be made using metal shavings, a resin, and crystals that helps protect from harmful EMF radiation. The radiation from all the devices was unavoidable in the hospital.

Most people tell me that they sleep better when they put a piece orgonite next to their bed. I never had a sleeping problem until now. I needed the rest, and so did my wife. I knew that I needed to do what I could to assist. The first night we both slept was the first night I brought a bag full of orgonite in the room. I later decorated the room with tons of pyramids. The addition had created a noticeable difference in my ability to sleep.

When we woke up on Saturday morning, it was another beautiful sunny day. We always seemed to wake up around sunrise. It also gave us an hour or two to talk before I had to go to work. I left that day, knowing that it looked like Danielle would be released on Monday. It brought me a lot of relief because I had Monday and Tuesday off so I would be able to take her home.

The next two days went without a hitch, and finally, Sunday night arrived. I was just relieved to have completed my endurance challenge for the week. It was nice just to know that we were likely to be discharged the next day. We could finally return home together.

We woke up with high hopes that we would be able to get out of the hospital quick. It ended up taking about five hours longer than expected but at least when we were able to leave Danielle was doing much better. The previous ten days had been enough, and she was pulling together all her strength for the car trip home. She was still suffering from extreme pain from the surgery, it had done a number on her, and the ascites was still causing severe discomfort too. My only goal was to make it home safe. I took it slow, making it home in about two hours.

We made it back to my house that evening around eight p.m. It was fantastic to get her settled into bed finally. I made sure to double dose her with medical marijuana. She was able to start eating the MMJ by this point, which was better for sleep and anxiety. I had to be careful not to give her too much because she didn’t enjoy being “super stoned,” as some might put it. In the evenings, it was a very useful tool to help her sleep and rest her thoughts. My home would be our new home. We had a journey of recovery and healing ahead of us.

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