In the Company of Angels!

Recently, I travelled via ferry to see my naturepath / physical therapist.  The 55 minute ride was calming, and by the time I reached my destination, I felt very relaxed. I welcomed the morning San Francisco fog and the brisk weather. I needed to get away, even for a few hours, and inhale the sea air. The beginning of the week had been very challenging. After appointments with my surgeon and oncologist, neither could explain the post surgery symptons (stomach muscle spams, weakness, vomiting, burning in arm and chest) I have been experiencing.  They extended my disability claim in hopes that the condition would heal itself in time.

So that morning after exiting the ferry, I walked slowly to the doctor's office. Unfortunately, within three blocks of my destination, I felt some of the symptons begin. I was terrified! My body became weaker with each step. The feelings of nausea stirred up within me. My insides started to churn. I was ready to pass out! Luckily, I was close to a curb, and I hung onto a lamp post while I prayed to God to send help. A few minutes later I opened my eyes, and a young man asked if he could help. This kind soul escorted me the remainder four blocks to my appointment.

The naturepath and staff promptly led me to the exam room. He listened as I shared with him my symptons. After a 15 minute Q&A session, he was able to pinpoint the problem. There is an obstruction in the upper stomach area which is interfering with the digestive process. Consequently, my stomach becomes upset, nausea sets in, and then I become weak and dizzy.

Weekly, the therapist focusess on the area that was operated as well as the surrounding area. The adjustment is somewhat complicated because my skin has been previously radiated; it cannot stretch. I have been provided a series of stretching exercises that help alleviate the painful upper stomach blockage.

Additionally, I added juicing to my nutrition plan. Since it is difficult to digest raw foods, I juice my vegetables and fruits. I also add a superfood powder that is a combination of probiotics and enzymes. The days when it is too difficult to digest food, I drink my healthy smoothie.  Also, following each meal I take a super enzyme which breaks down protein, fats, dairy and carbs.

What helps alleviate the frustration level uring my recovery period is I empower myself by doing the research. Traditional HMOs and PPOs provide traditional medicine and care, which doesn't necessarily provide an answer or remedy to the numerous side-effects and post-op symptons that many breast cancer patients may experience.

Remember this: No matter how long and treacherous your journey may seem, there is ALWAYS a light at the end of the tunnel!