Life can change in an instant!

We hear that all the time… and never think it pertains to us. Then you hear the words… “YOU HAVE CANCER” and well… Here we are!

Diagnosis: Stage 4 appendiceal cancer that has metastasized to the abdominal peritoneum (Omentum).

This is a very rare cancer that, as it grows puts relentless pressure on the organs in your abdomen while it slowly spreads to your other organs. Thank God we caught it early before I had many symptoms but the treatment options are very limited, and unfortunately do not have very good outcomes. Usually when people find this cancer, it is WAY to late to do anything, so I do feel thankful for that. At best, if all treatments went perfectly, going the traditional route would require a VERY extensive and risky surgery as well as chemotherapy for the REST OF MY LIFE!

Those of you who know our family, know that we have WAY too much experience with cancer, and because of that I am unfortunately VERY familiar with what traditional treatments entail. I watched my son suffer for years as the chemo, radiation and drugs they were giving him tore him apart. The first thing he said when I told him my diagnosis was “Mom, I will support whatever decision you make, but I WOULD NEVER DO CHEMO AGAIN”. He had to endure it for several years and just about killed him MANY times.

My protocol would require chemo for the rest of my life, causing Flu like symptoms 2 weeks out of every month, no exposure to the cold (even cold drinks), my feet, hands & mouth will be blistered and raw & no immune system... This certainly did not sound sustainable and after speaking with the pharmacist, who went through the drugs with me, sounded more like a slow death sentence.

Our first grandchild was born just a few days ago (to this same son who battled cancer) and the last thing I want to be focused on is death and feel sick everyday from Chemo. In fact, quite the opposite. I want to be a grandparent and ENJOY & TRULY LIVE my life. Instead, I would be hooked up to an IV for of toxic poison every 3 weeks of my life & praying for a “good day”.

So, after extensively researching my options, I found a clinic in the Tampa Bay area called UTOPIA Cancer & Wellness Center. This clinic fights cancer in a more holistic way by combining non-toxic treatments & full body approach to healing and giving your body the ability to purge the cancer cells naturally…as they should. This is a VERY intensive program that requires some pretty radical changes in diet, lifestyle, mental health and includes lots of other therapies. The program lasts 10-12 weeks and is 5 days a week. Once the initial program is completed, the follow up requires 1 week every 3 months for the first year for maintenance. The cost is $5,000 per week.

This is a big number, but how do you truly calculate the rest of your life in dollars. When I tried doing the math, there was no number too large to live the rest of my life healthy. I knew I had to find a way to make this happen.

Mike and I have never been extravagant spenders, so we had a bit of money saved from the sale of our home a few years ago; which has allowed me to complete the first 4 weeks of the program. I am seeing great results and feel really good. However, not being able to work and the fact that insurance does not cover ANY of these treatments has proved to be a much bigger burden than what we can carry on our own. I am one of the lucky souls that have ALL of my family’s support, and I can not express how grateful I am for that, but the hard fact is that this task is going to require monetary help to complete. Anyone who knows us can tell you that we are not ones to ask for help, but I know I can’t do this one alone and I can’t let this stop me!

I have decided to set aside any pride or reservations and ask for your assistance. I have faith and a daily mindset of recovery. I’ve realized that while I can’t control the cards I’ve been dealt, I CAN choose how I fight. This journey will be difficult, but it will also be a testament to resilience, love, and the unwavering will to keep going. I understand that everyone has their own challenges. Even if you can't contribute financially, your prayers, positive thoughts, and words of encouragement will always mean so much to us. Thank you again for your investment in my journey and your support.

I literally owe you my life!

Always looking Forward,

Stephanie

PS. In my weekly follow ups I will not only keep everyone updated on progress but will go into detail about the types of treatments I am doing, the recipes and therapies I have been using and links to supplements, off label drugs, research and books that have already changed my life! STAY TUNED!