BLOG.JENMOSHER.COM

Update

2010-07-21T21:04:00Z

*Chris is out of the rehabilitation center and doing well! He is staying with Steve, going to physical therapy 3 times a week and getting stronger everyday. He's more stable on his cane and was even able to go to the Cubs game with me last week.

*Scans in May were stable again! My doctor called me his 'miracle patient'. As much as I loved hearing that, the flip side is, the other people in the trial aren't doing as well. I was #6 in the trial and #7 did the trial after discovering my web site. Unfortunately, her last scans showed a spot in her liver. The good news is that the chemo has shrunk her tumor. Now lets pray that it gets rid of it all together. Keep all the other people in the trial in your prayers and let's hope I get good results again when I go back in August.

*Celebrated my best friend Ker's 40th birthday a few weeks ago in Minnesota. During her party, a sweet girl came up and introduced herself. She asked how Chris was doing and told me how sad she was when Sammy died. She said that she checks my blog every Monday morning and had been worried since I hadn't posted anything in so long. I was completely overwhelmed after meeting this girl, for so many reasons. First, that this stranger reads my blog. To be honest, I don't post much because I feel vain doing so. But I know how I feel when I'm following someone and I'm anxious to hear their progress, any progress. It's hard for me to realize that I'm the one being checked on. Mostly though, the fact that she asked about Chris and expressed her sadness over Sammy was so touching. People really are so kind.

*Had lunch with Sammy's family last week. It was so nice to spend time with them and hear, once again, about her incredible spirit. I can't even begin to express my gratitude to them for sharing her life with me. She has taught me so many valuable lessons, as have they.

*Please keep Mary Firth in your prayers. Mary is fighting metastatic melanoma and starting yet another trial. You may remember me mentioning her before when I wrote of her sister, who I went to college with, died a of a brain tumor and then again when her brother died last year of a brain tumor as well.

*Megan and I moved into a house eight years ago and four months later I was diagnosed. We moved out of that house two weeks ago and I'm hoping to leave the cancer behind! Now that Megan is engaged and getting married in October, our landlords decided to sell the house. I am now living alone in a new apartment a few blocks away and looking forward to many healthy years here.

*Next week my cousin Tom will start his bicycle ride across the state of Iowa with the Livestrong Foundation in my honor. There are no words to justly express my feelings about this amazing journey for which Tom has volunteered. For months he has tirelessly trained and for an entire week he will ride his bike all day, every day to raise money for those of us who have cancer, in hope of a cure. Not many would do such an act, but knowing Tom, his big heart and his desire to help those in need, I'm not surprised that he has chosen to give not only his time, but his entire self to this cause. If you have not already donated, PLEASE visit his site and support him in this selfless act. DONATE HERE Thank you!

Prayers Please

2010-05-14T16:28:00Z

Please keep our dear friend Chris Coulon in your prayers. He is currently intubated in the ICU due to pneumonia, breathing difficulty and low blood pressure.

I have written about Chris in the past and shared with you what a wonderful guy he is. Most people would find one of the following situations stressful. Chris has been dealing with ALL of these over the past year or so:

*Cancer
*Stem Cell Transplant
*Graft vs. Host
*Chronic pain, fevers & vomiting
*Medication side effects
*Inability to work
*Loss of income
*Wife leaving
*Daughter moved out of state
*Sale of house
*Moving
*Staying with family & friends
*Divorce
*Custody battles
*Audited
*Insurance issues

Let's send Chris our love, support and prayers. He needs them and certainly deserves them.

We love you Chris!

Thank you,

Jen

Please Read- LIVESTRONG!

2010-04-09T02:47:00Z

Hi All,

Even though my cousin Tom has already done so much to help me and many others, I still get amazed when he offers his time and efforts to benefit others. He has done this so often, you'd think I would just be used to it by now. But I'm not. I am awed by his generosity, his commitment and his caring. I am overwhelmed by his tenacity. I am proud of his strength. I am lucky to be his cousin and blessed to be his friend. And every cancer survivor will benefit from his selflessness in doing this ride for Livestrong.

As hard as it is to ask for donations in these times and feeling that you have all been so generous already; I must go ahead and do it anyway. The reason being that EVERY SINGLE DAY Tom is quietly doing for others and asking nothing in return. He diligently works with many different charity organizations and truly wants to make a difference. Please help Tom's tireless fight against cancer, which in turn, will help millions of people like me who are tirelessly fighting to have a future.

If only it was as simple as having as big of a heart as Tom's. Unfortunately, it takes more than that. It takes research, time and mostly, it takes money. But thankfully there are people like Tom out there willing to raise the funds needed by giving their time, their effort, their endurance, their sweat. I'm not asking for you to do that. I'm just asking you to give a small donation, no matter how small, so that those special people like Tom can keep actively fighting for those of us who have cancer.

And more importantly, in memory of those who lost their battle. Their fight may be over, but ours has just begun!

Please follow the link below. Thank you.

LIVESTRONG LINK JENNINGS

Love,

Jen

Tom racing for Team Livestrong this Spring.

Happy Birthday to an awesome, awesome guy!

2010-03-16T14:43:00Z

Hi,

Although I have received more from all of you than I could ever give back, I must ask one more favor. Our good friend Chris Coulon has a birthday this Friday, the 19th, and I am encouraging people to reach out and let him know that he is loved.

Chris has been such a great friend to me and so many others. His boisterous laugh has filled our hearts many times. His warm smile has made us smile and his spirit and zest for life has created fun all around him. Although he endures more physical, emotional, and financial pain daily than most people see in a lifetime, he does it with that incredible smile. And though it doesn't shine as bright these days, he makes a conscience effort to be sure it's there. So let's put that sparkle back in his eye, if only for a day, for I know it would mean the world to him. Let's brighten his day, since he has had so many dark ones recently.

This past Saturday, Chris moved out of the house he built with his own hands. It was more than just a house for him. It was his job, his career, his dream. Of course, Mae is what is most important to him, his beloved, but since she has been living out of town with her mother since last year, he doesn't get to see her, hold her, and watch her grow every day like he wishes he could. Her sporadic visits make him glow and keep him fighting.

He would be updating all of you himself, but his chronic Graft vs. Host that has invaded his lungs has left him tired and on oxygen. He experiences frequent tremors, fevers, and problems with his blood pressure. When he is able to sleep, he needs plenty of it, for there are times, due to his medication, when he is unable to sleep at all.

On top of the physical trials, going through a divorce he doesn't want, fighting custody issues, and currently being homeless, he is now being audited as well. So.............let's show him how much we care, how much we are behind him and support him, how much he means to all of us, by sending him a text, a facebook message, an email or write on his caringbridge page. Feel free to send a card in c/o of me which I will be sure to deliver. I know these are hard times for all of us, but if you have the means to include a check of any amount, I know it is needed and would be extremely appreciated. As will any and all birthday wishes.

Chris is such a special person. I don't know why, but he has been through hell and for far too long. As his friends, we often wonder what, if anything, we can do to help. One way is to acknowledge his birthday, tell him we care, and hopefully ease his suffering, if only for a day.

With sincere thanks,

Jen

Cards can be sent to:
Jen Mosher
1926 N. Bissell
Chicago, IL 60614

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Please Vote Now!

2010-03-08T16:04:00Z

Send the Tobacco Treaty to the Senate for Ratification

Over the past few years, lung cancer has become one of the leading causes of cancer deaths in the world. This increase is overwhelmingly due to the aggressive proliferation of tobacco products across the globe.

Today, one in three people in the world will get cancer in their lifetime. By the year 2030, that number will grow to one in two. A tidal wave of diagnoses, both at home and in developing countries is about to crash and we are not doing everything we can to stop it.

On February 27, 2005, the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (the Tobacco Treaty) went into force. This treaty requires countries that have ratified it to implement scientifically proven measures to reduce tobacco use and the terrible toll it takes on a country’s lives, health and economy.

168 countries have signed and ratified the Tobacco Treaty. The United States is one of 15 who have signed, but not ratified it. By voting for this idea, you will be joining LIVESTRONG Action in calling on the current administration to send the Tobacco Treaty to the Senate for ratification.

Countries who ratify the Convention commit to:

•    Ban or restrict tobacco advertising, promotion and sponsorship
•    Place large, graphic health warnings on cigarette packs and prohibit   the use of false and misleading terms such as "light" and "low tar"
•    Implement measures to protect non-smokers from secondhand smoke
•    Increase the price of tobacco products, particularly through taxation, to discourage tobacco use
•    Eliminate the illicit trade of tobacco products
•    Regulate the content of tobacco products and require public disclosure of ingredients
•    Provide cessation assistance and treatment for tobacco dependence
•    Prevent sales of tobacco products to minors

The ratification of the Tobacco Treaty will mark a vital step in building a world without cancer. Will you help us?

VOTE NOW CLICK HERE

Looking Back

2010-02-27T14:48:00Z

Seven years ago today I was told I had cancer when I answered my phone while in a 7-11 convenience store. I am so lucky to still be here. I am also grateful that my scans, done earlier this week, showed no progression!

I am still awed by the kindness and generosity of people. After chatting with a couple at the next table in a restaurant and exchanging info, I came home a few days later to a package at my door. Along with a sweet note from them was a gorgeous necklace that had 'expect miracles' inscribed on it. People are amazing. I have been so fortunate to meet and hear from the most thoughtful people. No matter how many times these things happen, I still tear up, get the goosebumps and am overwhelmed. Thank you Jenni and all of you that have been so very kind to me. It truly is what keeps me going.

I have four friends walking in the Avon 2 Day Walk for breast cancer this year. My sister Colleen and her friend Sharon walked on my behalf a few years ago. I was so touched and proud. For someone to raise money and give their time shows just how much people care about one another. Please visit avonwalk.org if you would like to support any of these special people:

Alison Stein, Texas
Audrey Stein, Texas
Jennifer Lala Muvilla, Chicago (sadly, her mom lost her battle a few years ago)
Karen Gariti Koslowski, Chicago (a survivor!)

These past 7 years have been extremely hard, but all the pain is over shadowed by the abundant support and love I have received from all of you. I am truly grateful, from the bottom of my heart.

Love,

Jennifer

World Cancer Day Today!

2010-02-04T15:27:00Z

World Cancer Day 2010, led by UICC, its members and with the support of the World Health Organization (WHO), will raise awareness of cancer prevention.

Each year, over 12 million people receive a cancer diagnosis and 7.6 million die of the disease.

The good news is that approximately 40% of cancers are potentially preventable. We invite you to join us in marking World Cancer Day on 4 February by promoting our exciting new campaign and spreading the message that cancer can be prevented too.

This coming February, UICC will launch the campaign “Cancer can be prevented too”, focusing on how the risk of developing cancer can significantly be reduced through simple measures:

Stop tobacco use and avoid exposure to second-hand smoke
Limit alcohol consumption
Avoid excessive sun exposure
Maintain a healthy weight, through eating healthily and exercising regularly
Protect against cancer-causing infections

http://www.worldcancercampaign.org/

Thanks!!!

2010-01-26T21:21:00Z

Hi,

Last Saturday I celebrated another birthday. How lucky I am. Not only for another year, but for all the kindness bestowed upon me. My family and friends are extraordinary, especially those of you who sent me '1 year old birthday cards' on the anniversary of my stem cell transplant on November 21. Aunt Colleen and Uncle Steve marked the occasion by sending beautiful flowers, which started the day perfectly. Two birthdays in two months--I like this!

I owe a long over due thank you to Mindy and the kind people at I've Been To A Marvelous Party who generously donated my beautiful thank you cards. She was so helpful and caring and I was overwhelmed when she informed me that I would not have to pay, especially since I needed 500 of them! Which brings me to another huge thank you--again to all of the 500 people who donated to my fund. The words 'thank you' just don't seem to do justice to the feeling of gratitude that overflows in my heart, so I will simply keep saying it over and over so you know that not a minute goes by that I don't think about the generosity of each and every one of you.

Another heartfelt thank you goes out to my local dry cleaner, De Paul Cleaners, for refusing my check and treating me to free dry cleaning from now on. When I returned after a long time away due to the transplant, I was greeted by hugs, tears and sincere joy. I know that when they said they were praying for me, they truly meant it. How refreshing it is to know that even in a big city, people care about one another.

Now that my body is a year old, I have started receiving my immunizations all over again. I am supposed to get five at a time, but seeing as I am only able to get shots in my left arm (due to the risk of lymphedema from lymph node removal on my right side) and that is too many for one arm, I only got three this time. But now I know why all the babies are crying so hard in the doctor's office. Not from the needle, but from the immunization itself. It burns!

I'm off to MD Anderson again in February, so I'll be back here asking for prayers once again. Until then..............

Love and hugs,

Jen

Inspiration

2009-12-18T17:44:00Z

Please take a moment to look at the stories of these two amazing young men and their battles with cancer.

Jake Olson

http://espn.go.com/blog/sportscenter/post/_/id/6341/one-last-look-usc-draws-inspiration-from-fan

Jimmy Fowkes

http://livestrongblog.org/

Important Clinical Trials Amendment Filed in the US Senate

2009-12-08T19:35:00Z

Important Clinical Trials Amendment Filed in the US Senate

by Brooke McMillan (LAF Staff)

Clinical trials are critical to cancer research. These studies help doctors find ways to improve health and cancer care. Clinical trials are designed to answer scientific questions and to find better ways to prevent, diagnose, or treat cancer.

Unfortunately, very few adults participate in clinical trials due to a number of barriers. In 2003, there were approximately 1,700 ongoing clinical trials, of which the National Cancer Institute (NCI) sponsored 1,200. Despite this large number of trials, only 3 percent of adult patients participated, while 20 percent were eligible. The participation rate for children is much higher. About 55 to 65 percent of children diagnosed with cancer by or before age 14 enter an NCI-sponsored clinical trial.

One way to improve the rate of participation by adults is to require insurance companies to pay the cost of routine medical care participants receive in a clinical trial. Some health plans do not cover these costs, including doctor visits, hospital stays and lab tests. This is a significant barrier to participation.

More than half of the states in the U.S. have passed laws to require health plans to cover these routine costs. Fortunately, there is an effort in the Senate to ensure that these costs are covered for all Americans.

Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH) and Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-TX) have joined to offer an amendment to the Senate health care reform bill that would prohibit insurers from dropping coverage because an individual chooses to participate in a clinical trial and from denying coverage for routine care that they would otherwise provide just because an individual is enrolled in a clinical trial.

This amendment would apply to all insurance products, including those offered in the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program, and to all clinical trials that treat cancer or other life-threatening diseases. States that go above and beyond the federal standard laid out in the amendment would not be preempted.

We appreciate Senators Brown and Hutchison for their leadership in offering this amendment. Please contact your Senators and ask them to cosponsor Amendment #2871 – the Brown-Hutchison clinical trials amendment. You can call, email and tweet your elected officials. You can sign up for a twitter service called 2gov.org to auto tweet all your elected officials. Go to http://2gov.org to get started.

With hundreds of amendments competing for time on the Senate floor, we will increase the likelihood that this amendment will be considered if we can show support through co-sponsorships.

For more information about clinical trials or to find out if you are eligible for a clinical trial, contact our LIVESTRONG SurvivorCare program at 1-866-673-7205.

http://livestrongblog.org/2009/12/08/important-clinical-trials-amendment-filed-in-the-us-senate/

Happy Birthday!

2009-11-23T17:41:00Z

According to the medical profession, today is my first birthday! One year ago I received 5 million stem cells and my body was 'reborn'.

I received the best birthday present ever on Wednesday at MD Anderson--my scan results were stable! The tumors have not grown and the cancer has not spread. Also, my CTC (circulating tumor cell) test was zero. Although I am not in remission or NED (no evidence of disease), I certainly am celebrating and extremely, extremely thankful.

Seeing that this was the one year mark of my stem cell transplant and I am still healthy; I feel that the trial has been a complete success. No matter what lies ahead, I am here today and will see the two year anniversary of my metastasis diagnosis on Dec. 11,which many unfortunately, do not. And the only reason any of this is possible is because of all of you! You have literally saved my life!Not a day goes by that I don't realize that. Not a day goes by that I am not thankful for that. And you can be sure that next Thursday will be more meaningful to me than ever!

With lots of love and lots of thanks,

Jennifer

Live Your life like there's no tomorrow

2009-11-16T23:05:00Z

After saying goodbye to Sammy and celebrating her short life last Saturday, I learned of another tragic death. Beth Bansley McCarthy was a fun, spunky girl I've known my whole life. She had a smile that beamed and a laugh that was truly contagious. She also had cystic fibrosis. The past few weeks her husband kept us updated as she waited on a ventilator for a new pair of lungs. Unfortunately they never came. Now her son is without a mother, her husband is without his best friend, her parents are without a daughter, her siblings are without a sister and the world is without a shining soul.

The past few weeks, it seems as though I have heard of a dozen deaths. As I sit here at MD Anderson Cancer Center during my 13 hour day of scans, I look around at all the people fighting for their future and I can't help but think of the words printed below Sammy's picture on her Funeral Mass booklet, which were previously written on her blog when she bravely decided to give up treatment after her cancer returned:

"In the meantime live your life like there's no tomorrow. I know it's cliche, but do it. Remind yourself of what you love and who you love. Tell them. Then tell them again. Figure out your favorite things.....sounds, smells, sights.....and surround yourself with them. Anyways, live, love, laugh. For me!"

~Sammy Cipolla, June 18, 2009

5/23/88-10/30/09

I love you,

Jen

Rest Peacefully Sammy

2009-10-31T13:15:00Z

Hi All,

Sammy Cipolla lost her battle with pancreatic cancer last night. She was only 21, but she had the courage, wisdom, insight and soul of someone way beyond her years. She was my personal hero. I will miss her dearly and look forward to meeting her in Heaven one day.

I read a quote that says "When it's dark, you see the stars". Sammy is my star in the darkness.

Love,

Jennifer

I need your help

2009-10-07T19:29:00Z

Hello everyone. I need your help. And I need it fast. Please!

Last year, on one of my first days at MD Anderson in Texas, I met a girl from New York in the waiting room of the Stem Cell Transplant department. Katie was there with her mom and they were two of the nicest, friendliest people you could hope to meet. They were eager to help by giving hints and tips on how to make life easier during the next three months. They knew the ins and outs all to well, since Katie had just finished her transplant. And though she wasn't fully recovered herself, Katie went out of her way to check on me when I was at the hospital or call me when I was at the apartment. It turned out to be a small world too--we learned that Katie's mom worked one block from my house in Chicago. In a large place far from home, we were greeted with warmth and kindness. And I wasn't the only one to benefit from meeting Katie. Another sweet girl named Shea had her transplant the same time as Katie, but she didn't have an apartment to stay in, so she and her grandmother (who was her caregiver) were spending their three months in a hotel. Being the hospitable people they are, Katie and her mom had them over to their apartment regularly.

Katie celebrated her one year anniversary last month. Just two weeks later she went to MD Anderson for her check up and has learned that her cancer is back. As scary as that news is on it's own, she also found out that she will have to endure another stem cell transplant, but this time she can't use her own stem cells. Katie has not been able to find a donor that is a match. This is where you come in! I am begging you to register today to be a donor. If not for Katie, then for one of the many other people out there waiting for a match. It is a simple procedure that involves a swab of your cheek with a Q-Tip. That's it! By doing this simple step, you can save a life. A life like Katie's. A 26 year old single girl. A girl that deserves a future.

Please register today since it takes six weeks for the entire process. And that is six weeks that the cancer has to keep growing. Thank you!

http://join.marrow.org/lifesource

Livestrong Day 10/2

2009-10-02T17:43:00Z

Today is Livestrong Day. A message from Lance Armstrong below.

I had a pre-existing condition

Lance was denied insurance when he needed it most. Sign the petition and tell Congress that no one else should be.

Today is LIVESTRONG Day. Thirteen years ago today, my doctor told me I had advanced testicular cancer. What most people don’t know is that at the time, I didn’t have health insurance. In the following weeks, I received letter after letter from the insurance company refusing to pay for my treatment. I was fighting for my life—but also for the coverage that I desperately needed.

The legislation currently being debated in Congress is not just words on a page—for many cancer survivors, it’s a matter of life and death. Now, as this debate enters crunch time, I need your help to ensure that what happened to me doesn't happen to any other American:

http://www.livestrongaction.org/campaigns/healthcare

No matter what side of the healthcare debate you're on, I believe we can all agree on two things:

No American should be denied health insurance coverage because of pre-existing conditions.

No American should lose their insurance due to changes in health or employment.

Will you sign the LIVESTRONG Action petition to make sure any legislation includes these two critically important reforms? We’ll deliver these to Capitol Hill this month as the debate reaches its climax and make sure our voices are heard in the debate:

http://www.livestrongaction.org/campaigns/healthcare

When I received my diagnosis, I was between cycling contracts. My new insurer used the diagnosis as a reason to deny coverage after the new contract was signed. Fortunately, one of my sponsors intervened. At their insistence, I was added to their insurance company and was able to continue my life-saving treatment. If my sponsor, a powerful company, had not gone to bat for me, I may not have made it.

I was lucky. We can't rely on luck to ensure coverage and treatment for the millions of Americans affected by cancer. Some cannot get coverage because they've already been diagnosed. Others get calls from their insurance companies saying they have been dropped. It happens all the time—and it's unacceptable.

Every year on LIVESTRONG Day, we come together to take action for a world without cancer. In the U.S., a critical step is to make sure cancer survivors can get and keep their health insurance.

It has been 13 years since my diagnosis, but in some ways, not much has changed. No person should have to worry about health insurance while battling cancer. That so many do is an outrage, and we must speak out.

Please sign the petition and forward it along to your friends and family:

http://www.livestrongaction.org/campaigns/healthcare

LIVESTRONG,

Lance Armstrong

Jimmy Burns!

2009-09-13T17:16:00Z

Today was the 6th annual Jim Burns Tailgate party. What a beautiful day to be outside with friends remembering Jim. As you well know, the Jim Burns Foundation holds a special place in my heart for their generosity in providing me with a home in Texas for three months. Jim's family and Dawn are extraordinary people. People I am so blessed to know. The best part of the day was singing happy birthday to Jim and Dawn's son--happy 9th birthday Jimmy!

As I was leaving the party thinking about the U2 concert I am going to tonight, I realized that it was 22 years ago that I last saw U2. I was a junior in high school and had four tickets. One of my friends had to back out, so I asked another friend if he wanted to invite someone. He brought Jim Burns. That night was the first time I met Jim. Who would have thought that two out of four high school friends would end up having stem cell transplants at MD Anderson in Texas? Little did I know then what an amazing impact Jim Burns' life would have on me. Little did I know what an amazing impact Jim Burns had on all people he encountered. I hope he witnessed today all the hearts he has touched.

Thank you Jim.

Thank you JBF.

Houston Update

2009-08-25T00:03:00Z

Hi All,

I'm home from Texas and wanted to thank everyone for all of their prayers and well wishes because once again, they worked! My scans showed no new tumors and the existing 'spots' have not grown. So we continue to hope that the 'spots' are healing, whatever they are. Time will tell. It is a long and painful process, but one I am so grateful for. And it would not be possible if it weren't for all of you! I again thank each and every one of you from the bottom of my heart. Truly.

So in three months I will go back again and see what is going on in my body. But every time the results are positive, the more likely it means the transplant worked. Although in my mind, it has worked because I am able to get out of bed everyday and enjoy it. It is hard for me to believe that when I go back for my next set of scans, it will be my one year anniversary of when I had my stem cells put back in. To me, it feels like it has been one month. According to the hospital and my doctors, I while be one year old then! At least my body will be. So I will have to get all of the immunization shots over the course of a year just as if I was newly born. I look forward to celebrating!

The Jim Burns tailgate party is coming up on Saturday, September 12th. You can sign up or make a donation at www.jimmyburns33.com. Please come and celebrate a wonderful person who lived a wonderful life, although too short but left behind a legacy of love, friendship, and goodness.

Speaking of goodness, I'd like to thank my friend Ker Jevne and her parents Marge and Fred Curtis for their kindness in donating miles for me to fly to Houston. I am always so humbled by people's generosity. Another story of the goodness in people is when I was checking in at the airport, I was told by the attendant that there was a likelyhood I would not get on the flight because it was over sold. It also was the last flight out. I explained to her that I had to be at the hospital for a long day of tests at 7 am the following morning and if I couldn't make it, it would put me off a week seeing that my doctor is only in the hospital on Wednesdays, which is when the results of the scans would be in. I also had Megan, my mom and my Uncle Steve coming to meet me there. She suggested I drive, although my luggage would be on the flight no matter if I was or not. I proceeded to the gate, was too early to check in for my flight but decided to ask the attendant if she would be the one working when my flight posted. She said no but asked what I needed as I was walking away. I told her my predicament. She said nothing, but began typing on her computer. She then handed be a boarding pass, winked at me and said, don't worry; you have a seat. I grabbed her hand and told her how extremely grateful I was. About ten minutes later, the same girl tapped me on the shoulder and knelt down beside me. She asked me if I would tell her what kind of cancer I had. After I did, she said that her sister who is 33 and has six children, was just treated for breast cancer. Her sister worries every day that it is going to come back, but this girl told her it can't. And she truly believed that. Meeting me and hearing my story changed her mind. I felt terrible. Here this girl did something so nice for me and I represented her sister's worst fear. One that she thought wasn't even possible. Her sister may never have a recurrence, but I know they now will both live with the fear that I lived with every day. That any one who has had cancer lives with every day.

While I was in Austin, my cousin Tom took me to the headquarters of the Lance Armstrong Foundation where we got a tour from Chris Brewer. What an amazing organization LIVEstrong is. There are so many millions of people living with cancer and I am so happy that there is a place that is working towards making their lives easier. Thank you Tom, for bringing me there and supporting such an important cause. Tom will be riding in the LIVEstrong bike race in Austin in October. I am always in such awe of people who give their time and effort to participate in cancer funding. Please visit Tom's site at: LIVESTRONG CHALLENGE

Thank you!

Love,
Jen

Austin/Dallas/Houston

2009-08-12T19:34:00Z

Just a few things that are going on:

* Was not getting my energy back, sleeping way too much and always exhausted. Got a little nervous that something was wrong. After many more tests, turns out the radioactive drug used during the transplant did a number on my thyroid. I have added yet another medication to my list, so hopefully it will kick in soon and I can start to feel human again.

* Spent an amazing day and night with an old high school friend who lives out of town. It had been far too long since Margaret and I had spent any quality time together. Yet it was as if only a day had past. We had just as much fun as we used to and laughed just as hard. Margaret has been such a great friend throughout my life and my illness. She reached out to so many on my behalf. I am so lucky to have friends like her surrounding me.

* After missing my flight and spending a long, long day in the airport, I finally made it to Austin. As usual, Tom and Jill have opened their doors to me and made me feel right at home. Tom has a great knack of lifting my spirits and opening my eyes to the goodness in the world. That is because he is such a good person. Not only did he marry the best, he surrounds himself with good friends as well. He has been kind enough to introduce me to some of them. PJ is one that stands out and goes out of her way for me. What a amazing person. She always has a smile on her face, a hug to give, a kind word to say, and a heartfelt offer to help in any way she can. I am blessed to know her. And Allie has grown into the epitome of a precious 'bouncing baby'. All biases aside, she is truly beautiful and a joy to wake up to every day.

* Yesterday was a day to remember. Many know that I am a fan of the show Friday Night Lights. Anyone who watches is, so tune in. One of the more remarkable characters is Tim Riggins. He is played by the actor Taylor Kitsch. Thanks to Tom, I had lunch with Taylor Kitsch and his new, adorable puppy yesterday! What a great guy. We were joined by his stunt double Erick, who is an amazingly nice guy as well. I wasn't really sure what to expect, other than it may be awkward seeing as I'm not one to approach or acknowledge a celebrity if I see one. But it couldn't have been less so. We spent 2 1/2 hours in 105 degree temps talking more about charities than anything else. I couldn't help but think of Jim Burns the entire time, because on the show, which is about high school football, Tim Riggins is #33, just like Jim. Taylor did invite me to the set when they start filming in the fall. I can hear lots of you females swooning right now!

* I'm heading to Dallas tomorrow to meet up with Ker and her son Fin. She was nice enough to invite me to spend the weekend with them while she visits her dad and his wife. I've always wanted to go to Dallas, as embarrassing and cheesy as it sounds, because I was a fan of the show when I was young, so Ker and I will be making a pilgrimage to SouthFork Ranch while we're there.

* It's back to Houston on Sunday where I will meet up with Megan, who is flying down to be with me for my three month scans at MD Anderson. It's that time again! Already. Same deal--full day of scans Monday. Day off Tuesday. Meet with Dr. on Wed. for results. My stomach is already in knots thinking about it. Asking for lots of prayers again. They worked last time so I'm hoping for the same results. I couldn't get through all of this with out all of the support and prayers from all of you. Thank you from the very bottom of my heart.

Jen & Taylor Kitsch, Austin TX Southfork Ranch, Dallas, TX

Jimmy

2009-07-07T18:32:00Z

Six years ago today many of us wept as we learned Jim Burns had lost his battle with cancer at the age of 33. Please pray that he sends peace to his amazing wife Dawn and their adorable children Jimmy and Lexi. Also to his kind family and many friends.

Idid not know Jim well, but his legacy certainly has made a huge impact on my life. Because of the person he was and the friendships he made;because of his choice to marry Dawn; because he chose MD Anderson to have his stem cell transplant;because those who loved him wanted to honor him in a special way by starting a foundation in his name; my life benefited while I had my stem cell transplant. Because of Jim Burns, many lives benefited while they had stem cell transplants.

At the end of the day,don't we all just want to make a mark on this world? To make a difference? Jim certainly did in mine. Thank you Jim. Rest in peace.

Jim Burns Foundation

Leading the Fight

2009-07-03T22:34:00Z

by Lance Armstrong

About a year ago, during our LIVESTRONG Summit in Columbus, Ohio, I started thinking about returning to professional cycling. I knew I could compete at the highest level of racing but this time I was motivated from a different perspective.

Meeting so many people over the years…so many survivors…has built in me an ever greater sense of urgency addressing the hurdles in cancer control and, ultimately, telling survivors’ stories. The stories tell it all. The triumphs and challenges are all part of the LIVESTRONG community and the human narrative. That collective, grassroots movement built by all of you has been remarkably powerful for me personally and also powerful in moving cancer back into the consciousness of decision makers.

That energy is why I am riding again: to make cancer a global priority.

A GLOBAL SOCIAL MOVEMENT
Cancer will be the leading cause of death, globally, in 2010. This disease affects 28 million people worldwide. Its projected growth over the next 20 years statistically dwarfs other diseases. In many parts of the world, cancer is considered a death sentence. Survivors are labeled and cruelly stigmatized. With 30 to 40 percent of all cancers being preventable, a shared global strategy that combines prevention and innovation is essential. As LIVESTRONG and our partners continue to build a global social movement, it’s imperative that we tie the strands of all disease control together to be more effective.

We know the numbers. We know various ways to control this disease. We know how to better care for those suffering. We know where triggers exist. Simply put, we know a great deal. What is missing in this equation is a global focus supporting those who are suffering in silence, organizing community action and aggressively developing the most innovative research.

THE SUMMIT AND BEYOND
The purpose of the LIVESTRONG Global Cancer Summit is to draw the eyes of the world to the global cancer burden and also the challenges of stigmatization. Our Dublin Summit and global campaign will provide a platform for telling the stories and highlighting the outstanding work going on around the globe to alleviate the pain and suffering of cancer. Over the last six months, our LIVESTRONG team and I have met with various prime ministers, health and finance ministers, parliamentarians, cancer experts, NGO leaders, advocates and, of course, survivors to see how can we continue to push for fresh investments in cancer control. We have asked leaders all over the world to offer new “commitments” in making cancer a global priority. The response has been tremendous and this same cross-section of leaders – well-known and not so well-known – will all be collaborating in Dublin for two and half days of forward-thinking action.

We will see participation from all five continents, 62 countries, over 300 commitments and an anticipated 500 delegates, joining together in Dublin from August 24th-26th to make cancer a global priority. The growing global network of advocates spurred by this Summit has committed roughly $200 million in fresh investments, just as a start. Government commitments are estimated in the billions. While financial contributions are obviously important, other leaders will be using the Summit to announce significant policy shifts, advocacy campaigns or direct services to survivors. So, the LIVESTRONG Global Cancer Summit is providing the license and platform in which to highlight great advances and collaboration on the next steps for action.

Some examples include:

Jordan:
$300 million for the King Hussein Institute for Biotechnology and Cancer, funding three cancer control initiatives, including creating an Office of Advocacy and Survivorship

Netherlands:
The Dutch Cancer Society will be introducing web-based clinical trials.

China:
The Chinese Anti-Cancer Association is planning to screen 530,000 women per year in 30 provinces

Brazil:
TUCCA (Brain Tumors Assoc. for Children and Adolescents), will be building the first pediatric hospice in Brazil

Australia:
$2 billion in the new Australian government budget for cancer control

LET’S CHANGE THE EQUATION
Building a social movement takes time, focus and ultimately an impassioned, consistent and active chorus of voices for change. LIVESTRONG has become a community for people from all over the world doing just that. While the Dublin Summit and continuing global campaign provide an occasion for elected leaders to tell their stories and exhibit truly innovative practices in combating this disease, it is also about individual advocates, multilateral organizations, NGO’s and community-based leadership all over the world working together. LIVESTRONG can only accomplish progress in partnership with others, collaborating across all sectors on prevention and innovative practices.

It’s so empowering to see individuals all over the world advancing this issue in the most creative ways. It’s also encouraging to see more leaders in power taking innovative steps. LIVESTRONG chooses lead as a source for inspiration, knowledge and by offering the tools to build this newly emerging global social movement.

What a great reason to ride again.

Thanks for all you do.

-Lance Armstrong