Grace Gawler|Voice America|Three Months: A Caregiving Journey from Heartbreak to Healing

Dietrich Stroeh’s life came apart after learning that his wife had pancreatic cancer. The Stage Four diagnosis took him on the roller coaster ride of his life. Overnight, this successful businessman became a caregiver powerless over the course of his wife’s illness. He had to face internal weaknesses and external obstacles in order to take care of her and, when the time came, lovingly let her go. Stroeh chronicles his journey in this book, taking readers inside the Stroeh household where home care, medical decisions and much needed laughter give extraordinary shape to an unexpected and devastating illness.

Navigating the  Cancer Maze: This week Dietrich Stroeh, author of Three Months: A Caregiving Journey from Heartbreak to Healing talks about his book.

 This is a highly recommended read for anyone on the cancer journey – patients, family & friends. Grace Gawler

Listen at:   http://www.voiceamerica.com/episode/75644/navigating-the-cancer-mazethree-months-a-caregiving-journey-from-heartbreak-to-healing-with-dietrich

Often on Navigating the Cancer Maze we speak about the possibilities of cancer recovery & how we can work towards that outcome. Let’s face it, it is what everyone wants to hear; however for many cancer patients, circumstances and unexpected challenges that cancer brings can mean the loss of a loved one. For every patient & family, it is important to address this topic, “What if things don’t go to plan?” Dietrich Stroeh’s life came apart after learning that his wife had pancreatic cancer. The Stage Four diagnosis took him on the roller Three Months a caregivers Journey_CoverFinalcoaster ride of his life. Overnight, this successful businessman became a caregiver powerless over the course of his wife’s illness. He had to face internal weaknesses and external obstacles in order to take care of her and, when the time came, lovingly let her go.

Stroeh chronicles his journey in this book, taking readers inside the Stroeh household where home care, medical decisions and much needed laughter give extraordinary shape to an unexpected and devastating illness.
Advocating for a loved one, caring for one’s self, being part of the medical team and handling grief are only a few of the topics that are addressed simply in this first-person story. Like the paperback, the newly released e-book also  provides easy to read care-giving tips and useful resources that Stroeh picked up in the course of only three months time.  It also includes a chapter of author-published articles about being a male caregiver and more.
Three Months: A Caregiving Journey from Heartbreak to Healing is both a love story and a guidebook.  Anyone going through an experience with a terminal illness would benefit from reading it,” said Dr. Kim Allison, MD, Director of Breast Pathology at University of Washington Medical Center.
An engineer by trade, J. Dietrich “Diet” Stroeh has headed up projects great and small, and managed the Marin Municipal Water

Diet Stroeh author
Dietrich Stroeh author

District in the midst of one of the worst droughts on record. That experience was the basis for his first book, The Man Who Made it Rain, co-written with Michael McCarthy.

Three Months: A Caregiving Journey from Heartbreak to Healing is available at Amazon (Amazon.com), Barnes and Noble (BarnesandNoble.com) and at FolkHeart Press (FolkHeartpress.com). FolkHeart Press, a boutique publisher located in Northern California, specializes in personal narratives and original folklore material.  For more information: www.folkheartpress.com
Buy the book – kindle and paperback:
Watch video of interview with Dietrich Stroeh & Sylvia Barry.

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1pc2gKeZl2w]

Navigating the Cancer Maze with Dr Francis Seow Choen| Exploring InterStim TM Therapy Singapore

If you heard the the interview with Dr Francis Seow Choen on Navigating the Cancer Maze last week – you may remember him mentioning some of the special surgical & technological techniques practiced at the Fortis Surgical Hospital Singapore. One of those therapies is InterStimTM Therapy also know as sacro neuro-modulation. This is the technique I successfully underwent in Holland in 2002-03 which was a world first for my condition.

Part 2 Interview with Dr Francis Seow Choen: Exploring InterStim TM Therapy
Resource: Colorectal solutions – not only for cancer patients!

One of Modern Technological Miracle treatments – yet no one is quite sure exactly why/how  it works. But without InterStimTM Therapy – I would not be here writing this blog ! More patients need to know about this technique as it can be a solution for urinary and faecal incontinence as well as chronic constipation. Many of these issues can be caused by disturbance or damage to the pelvic nerve pathways.

If you heard the the interview with Dr Francis Seow Choen on Navigating the Cancer Maze last week – you may remember him mentioning some of the special surgical & technological techniques practiced at the Fortis Surgical Hospital Singapore. One of those therapies is InterStimTM Therapy also know as sacro neuro-modulation. This is the technique I successfully underwent in Holland in 2002-03 which was a world first for my condition.

After successful interstim replacement Singapore 2009
After successful interstim replacement Singapore 2009 Grace, Pip and Dr Seow Choen

 There are all kinds of reasons why the nerve supply to the anus and rectum can be disturbed. In my case it was a sudden and unexpected post surgical complication after a hysterectomy for a simple prolapse repair. When this nerve disturbance occurs, one can’t perform the natural daily function of defecation  – it changes life substantially!!  Having had 5 feet of damaged colon removed and 5 feet of small intestine removed – caused by impaction, As Dr Seow Choen discussed on the show, the solution for most patients is to have a surgery that makes an anus on the abdomen ( called a stoma) – where a bag is attached to collect faeces. ( This can either be an ileostomy or colostomy). For some patients this can be a solution – but for many others like myself – it can mean a deterioration of life quality, painful burns on the abdomen, herniation of the stoma area and in the case of ileostomies – the socially embarrassing issues of leaking or exploding bags! Being the first patient for InterStimTM Therapy – the surgery was extensive and invasive…but no complaints –  it gave me my life back! Now 11 years later the procedure is simplified and the devices are smaller. I have had 2 devices so far and will have a replacement sometime in the next 6 months. (Because for me the battery expires as the devices needs to run on a relatively high voltage constantly) Not the case for everyone. More information – contact http://www.fortissurgicalhospital.com/our-services/interstim-therapy

What is InterStimTM therapy?

InterStimTM Therapy is an innovative treatment option for urinary and fecal incontinence. It is also used to treat constipation. InterStimTM therapy uses mild electrical impulses to stimulate sacral nerves and thereby restore the function of the bladder, bowel and external urinal and anal sphincter pathways.

This is known as sacral neuromodulation (SNM) or sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) and is a long lasting, reversible treatment that can be used effectively to treat selected patients with bladder and/or bowel dysfunction.

How does InterStimTM work?
Interstim fortiscolo rectal hospital Prof Seow Choen
InterstimTM

Low-intensity electrical impulses are generated by an implantable neurostimulator INS, and delivered via a conducting electrode to one of the sacral nerves.

Treatment with InterStimTM Therapy

Patients likely to respond to treatment are selected through test stimulation. Following successful testing, (>50% improvement in symptoms) patients are recommended for permanent implant.

The test stimulation takes place over several days. A thin flexible wire is inserted, under local anaesthetic, close the sacral nerves. This is taped to the skin and connected to a small external stimulator worn on the waistband.

Following a successful trial a permanent implant can be fitted, also under local anaesthetic, in the upper buttock. Once in place the neurostimulator is activated, sending mild electrical pulses to the sacral nerve. This can be adjusted for each patient, initially by the doctor, but also by the patient using a programmer (similar to a remote control).

Why was InterStimTM Therapy developed?

Treatment options in both urinary and faecal incontinence are recognized as limited, with many patients unable to achieve good symptom control with pharmacological interventions alone.

Patients’ lives are severely affected, with frequent reporting of depression, low self-esteem and restricted daily activities.

What are the patient benefits?

Sacral neuromodulation (SNM) is a long-term treatment for patients with either urinary or faecal incontinence, and for those with double incontinence.

  • After more than five years of follow-up nearly 75% of patients with fecal incontinence maintained at least a 50% improvement.1
  • Its benefit is not limited to improvement in symptoms; quality of life (QoL) also increases significantly.
  • Its efficacy has been demonstrated in both single and multicentre prospective studies.1

Experts recognize its wide range of applications, its potential as a minimally invasive technique with a very low risk of complications,2 and as a cost-effective treatment option.3-5

INTEGRATED AND COMPREHENSIVE THERAPY

At Fortis Surgical Hospital, we offer an integrated programme with the complete spectrum of treatments required for our patients.

WHO IS SUITABLE FOR INTERSTIM TM THERAPY?

This therapy is an option for patients who have not had success with, or could not tolerate more conservative treatments such as oral medication, physical therapy and diet modification. All patients will have to undergo the trial assessment to confirm their suitability.

SOURCE: http://www.fortissurgicalhospital.com/our-services/interstim-therapy
Reference:  incontinence. Br J Surg. 2006 Nov;93(11):1411-7

Listen to Dr Francis Seow Choen on Navigating the Cancer Maze – Voice America.

http://www.voiceamerica.com/episode/75467/navigating-the-cancer-maze-with-professor-francis-seow-choen-the-journey-from-cancer-patient-to

Navigating the Cancer Maze with Professor Francis Seow Choen|The Journey from Cancer Patient to Famous Colorectal Surgeon

Dr Francis Seow Choen is a medical miracle – he recovered from major surgery for a cancer in his small intestine; and as a 7 year old and faced a horrendous 6 months of radiation treatment and chemotherapy way back in 1964 when treatments were very harsh. A survivor and now world famous colorectal surgeon he breaks a lot of myths that surround colorectal cancer. In his life and Practice he is a seeker of truth for the public well-being when it comes to cancer and cancer prevention and cure claims.


Navigating the Cancer Maze with Professor Francis Seow Choen / The Journey from Cancer Patient to Famous Colorectal Surgeon…Part 1.

PROFESSOR FRANCIS SEOW CHOEN“Surgery is not just science. Surgery is an art. One can learn about science from courses, conferences and books. In art, one has to have talent first and then seek out a master who can bring that skill to perfection.”    Prof Seow-Choen

Dr Francis Seow Choen is a medical miracle – he recovered from major surgery for a cancer in his small intestine; and as a 7 year old and faced a horrendous 6 months of radiation treatment and chemotherapy way back in 1964 when treatments were very harsh. A survivor and now world famous colorectal surgeon he breaks a lot of myths that surround colorectal cancer. In his life and Practice he is a seeker of truth for the public well-being when it comes to cancer and cancer prevention and cure claims.

Although he is well published in Singapore as a social commentator on colorectal cancer prevention and treatments – it must be said that he has not used his cancer survival as a way of attracting followers – but rather, he has taken the scientific method path of research and a rigorous approach to best techniques for each individual patient.  VISIT:   http://www.fortissurgicalhospital.com

His views on lifestyle, in particular diet as a cancer prevention may surprise you – however after 40 years experience and as someone involved in lifestyle medicine in the early days of its promotion; I agree. Many of the patients I see as vegetarians, vegans, raw foodists and what I would call ‘healthy eaters’ who don’t smoke  and who are “tea-totallers” seem to get cancer at the same rate as everyone else. These patients often feel betrayed by lifestyle medicine that promised them a healthy disease-free life. This is complex – but Dr Seow Choen gives his views from a very experienced background. He believes that the key to working against  cancer is found in genetics and molecular studies. Dr Seow Choen is an avid educator in the field of colorectal diseases. He says right and truthful information, early diagnosis, right treatment, good support and the right doctor are keys to survival.

Below see eCard information from Navigating the Cancer Maze: To Listen to this inspiring and informative interview – select the link below

http://www.voiceamerica.com/episode/75467/navigating-the-cancer-maze-with-professor-francis-seow-choen-the-journey-from-cancer-patient-to

Today my special guest on Navigating the Cancer Maze is Dr Francis Seow-Choen from Singapore. As a little boy he became medically famous when diagnosed with Burkitt’s lymphoma; the first recorded case in Singapore. After diagnosis & an arduous 6 months that included surgery, chemotherapy and radiation treatment; he survived! He was just 7 years old.

Today, Dr Francis Seow-Choen is Medical Director and Senior Consultant at Fortis Colorectal Hospital in Singapore. He is an internationally recognised colorectal surgeon and had previously held posts as the Head and Senior Consultant – Department of Colorectal Surgery, Singapore General Hospital, Director of the Endoscopy Centre and Director of Surgical Oncology at the National Cancer Centre (see Guest profile). The professor is an ardent entomologist, husband, father and above all he is a surgeon & survivor who beat the odds and inspires others through his life and vocation.

Links and resources:

PHYSICIANS & GP’S:    The e-book for physicians and GP’s is titled Handbook on Colorectal Diseases, composed by the hospital’s Senior Consultants and invited writers, focuses on three key areas, namely:

  • The diagnosis and management of colorectal diseases in an outpatient context
  • Pathology and surgical procedures to enable appropriate counseling of patients
  • Relevant information to help Family Physicians make decisions on when to refer patients for further treatment

The e-book is now available for download on both iBooks and iTunes, in 51 territories including United States, Canada, United Kingdom, and Australia. Follow the link below to get a copy of the e-book today:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/handbook-on-colorectal-diseases/id677667082?mt=11

CONTACT: Fortis Colorectal  hospital Singapore website :     http://www.fortissurgicalhospital.com
Difficult cases and international patients accepted.

Learn and read more about Dr Francis Seow Choen:

http://www.colorectalcentre.com/eng/index.html

Article on eating and fibre intake: Dr Francis Seow Choen:

http://www.colorectalcentre.com/eng/fibre.html

http://www.sgh.com.sg/about-us/newsroom/News-Articles-Reports/Pages/HowbadisyourconstipationCheckyourstool.aspx

http://www.voiceamerica.com/episode/75467/navigating-the-cancer-maze-with-professor-francis-seow-choen-the-journey-from-cancer-patient-to

Background – Guest Page: Voice America Heath & Wellness Channel

http://www.voiceamerica.com/guest/19613/dr-francis-seow-choen

Navigating the Cancer Maze is presented each week as a free service to the global cancer community by the Grace Gawler Institute and anyone interested in the Truth in Medicine and Health. www.gracegawlerinstitute.com

Dr Julie Crews runs for the Grace Gawler Institute in today’s New York Marathon

Cancer is a Marathon and not a Sprint says Dr Julie Crews whom today, November 3rd 2013, is running in the New York Marathon on behalf of The Grace Gawler Institute (Australia). The Grace Gawler Institute represents a special group of cancer patients – Those who are told there is nothing more to be done…no other treatment is available for their condition. This is not always the absolute truth. The institute believes that every ‘drop of life’ is precious and that cancer patients and their families – if they desire – deserve the tight to try to find solutions to extend their life! They deserve options to extend life with good life quality.

Cancer is a Marathon and not a Sprint says Dr Julie Crews.   November 3rd 2013, Dr Julie is running in the New York Marathon on behalf of The Grace Gawler Institute (Australia). The Grace Gawler Institute represents a special group of cancer patients – Those who are told there is nothing more to be done…no other treatment is available for their condition. This is not always the absolute truth

Dr Julie Crews in training NY Marathon
Dr Julie Crews in training NY Marathon

The institute believes that every ‘drop of life’ is precious and that cancer patients – if they desire – deserve the right to try to find solutions to extend their life! They deserve options to extend life for as long as possible with good life quality.

 Today’s marathon fundraiser via your donations, enables us to do the work that few want to do in helping late stage cancer patients – so please consider a donation no matter how small – it will help our services – support and education wheels to turn.

With a distance of 26.2 miles of road, the NY Marathon is not only a demanding event, but Dr Julie has shown her resolve and commitment  to travel to another country to support a cause that is dear to her heart. As well we know, these days being a part of a major world event is also not without personal risk.

Dr Julie Crews running in today's New York Marathon 3 Nov 2013
Dr Julie Crews running in today’s New York Marathon 3 Nov 2013

Dr Julie is just one of 47,000 runners who, as I write; are racing through five boroughs of NY  for the first time since the now famous Boston Marathon bombing, which left three people dead and more than 260 injured in April.

New York City Police Commissioner Ray Kelly said: “Prior to taking their starting positions on Staten Island, even runners were screened and their bags inspected.”  This comment brings home to us the commitment that Dr Julie has shown and we are very grateful for her tremendous effort today.

Dr Julie’s  passion to assist cancer patients through the vehicle of our institute has been a wonderful experience. We are grateful for her generosity of spirit and wish her well in The NY Marathon – her first ever Marathon.


It is not too late to recognise & support Dr Julie’s efforts to help cancer patients. You can visit our donation page at the  Grace Gawler Institute – a registered not for profit Health promotion Charity. Donations are eligible for a tax deduction as we have DGR status – receipts will be sent or emailed.

For information about Dr Julie Crews and the Grace Gawler Institute Visit:
http://gracegawlerinstitutefundraiser.com/

http://gracegawlerinstitutefundraising.com/

To make a donation – and support Dr Julie ( all her sponsorship funds go to the Grace Gawler Institute) – You will be  helping to make the cancer world a more informed and user – friendly place.

http://www.gracegawlerinstitute.com/marathon/ (SSL secured website)

Dr Julie Crews, a long time supporter of the Grace Gawler Institute is running today to raise funds for our cancer education programs. 100% of funds raised from Dr Julies efforts today will go directly to fund these programs. Each week for the past year the Grace Gawler Institute has presented a consistent line-up of cancer experts, researchers and recovered patients plus knowledge learned from helping patients to Navigate the Cancer Maze for almost 40 years.

The radio show goes to air via Voice America and  is titled Navigating the Cancer Maze and is live each Friday 12 noon Arizona US time – early Saturday morning in Australia. The show is archived and catalogued by the month and topic for each week. You can listen to archived programs and live programs and download shows that you want to hear again. All material on the show is carefully prepared and authentic. There is no fee required for listening on Voice America and we consider the show a major contribution to awareness and education to the global cancer community.

Navigating the Cancer Maze is a unique show; helping many thousands of cancer patients and families. Join the many thousands of cancer patients around the world who listen regularly to The Show each week.
http://www.voiceamerica.com/show/2125/navigating-the-cancer-maze

NY times online Dr Julie Crews
Comment on the NY Times online

The Man who Saved a Million Lives | Prof Ian Frazer – book review Grace Gawler

Author of ‘Ian Frazer … The man who saved a million lives’, Brisbane’s Madonna King, has certainly done justice to telling the life story and, scientific story of Prof Ian Frazer, one of Australia’s leading medical and scientific researchers.I also had the pleasure of interviewing Prof Ian Frazer on my educational US based internet radio series “Navigating the Cancer Maze”. If you missed this interview – it comes as highly recommended as the book about his life and work.
http://www.voiceamerica.com/episode/72540/navigating-the-cancer-maze-with-professor-ian-frazer

Author of ‘Ian Frazer … The man who saved a million lives’, Brisbane’s Madonna King, has certainly done justice to telling the life story and, scientific story of Prof Ian Frazer, one of Australia’s leading medical and scientific researchers.

A Review.

In 2012 I heard Prof Frazer give an excellent presentation to a Prostate Cancer Support group at Tweed heads. I was impressed, because here was a man clearly still as passionate about his work as when he began in the field of medicine, virology and immunology decades prior. Born in the same year as myself, we shared a hero.

Prof Ian Frazer
The Book that tells of story of one of the most important discoveries in recent medical science

 Ian Frazer grew up in the era of TV scientist Prof Julius Sumner-Miller whose program was called “Why is it so”? I have met so many scientists around the world who name Prof Sumner-Miller as their early inspiration to pursuit of a scientific career – What a legacy he left!

I also had the pleasure of interviewing Prof Ian Frazer on my educational US based internet radio series “Navigating the Cancer Maze”. If you missed this interview – it comes as highly recommended as the book about his life and work.
http://www.voiceamerica.com/episode/72540/navigating-the-cancer-maze-with-professor-ian-frazer

It is not easy to maintain that degree of dedication and passion that Ian Frazer exudes; he must work hideously long hours. Although very gracious and compassionate one gets the sense that here is a man whose reputation has been hard-earned and at a cost. The world of science, research and pharmaceutical companies is highly competitive and it is this part of the book that is so revealing about the dogged nature of Prof Frazer. Yet, this is softened by the care and compassion threaded throughout the pages especially when it came to sharing the accolades with colleagues such as  Jian Zhou.

The unexpected fight of his life and the lives of his fellow researchers began following a published paper in the Journal Virology by his colleague the late Jian Zhou, his wife Xiao Yi Sun, Deborah Stenzel and Prof Frazer. The paper was to be presented at a conference in Seattle in the USA , and at the last minute – a patent was issued in Queensland before  Jian Zhou and Ian Frazer left Australia to present one of the world’s biggest breakthroughs in the fight against cervical cancer. However – what ensued over the coming years was a court case to determine who was the real inventor/owner of the world’s first HPV vaccine…it was declared it was not Australia – but the US Georgetown based researchers that deserved first place and the right to say they developed the Vaccine. It was not until August 2007 that this judgement was reversed!

The story is complex but Madonna King weaves her literary skill…. the battle for rightful Australian and not US ownership of the vaccine discovery and patent reads like a spy novel crossed with a television drama – it would make a great Australian mini-series!

This book is not only significant in describing the story line of Prof Ian Frazer the man and his family and colleagues – but also it paints a picture of the behind the scenes pressures and skulduggery that happens in a medical research  world that most of us know little about.  It is complex and convoluted and of course as well as the discoveries – there is always the financial rewards that creates a competitive race to the finish-line approach. You will read about pharmaceutical companies, ethics and laws and the struggles that ensued to bring truth and a humane discovery to light.  Prof Ian Frazer and his team shine throughout.

I would highly recommend this book. It is a great read for anybody  who wants to know the science and reason and efforts behind the development of the cervical vaccine that Prof Frazer and the late Jian Zhou pioneered; and, as well, Madonna King shows us the human faces and lives of the people behind science and research that makes our live better. The book is aptly titled….”‘Ian Frazer … The man who saved a million lives’.

A great Christmas gift!

How to get your copy: available in Australia from Dymocks, Target and many other bookstores.

Not available in e-book yet, the book is published by University of Queensland Press BUY ONLINE HERE

Spontaneous Remission – Researcher Caryle Hirshberg-Navigating the Cancer Maze Grace Gawler

Spontaneous Remission launched Caryle Hirshberg into the cancer spotlight when it was published in 1993 by the institute of Noetic Sciences (IONS). The book filled a gap in research, as before that time there was no standard reference for the field of spontaneous remission

VoiceAmerica and WorldTalk internet Radio Network, announced today that nationally acclaimed author and researcher Caryle Hirshberg will join Grace Gawler, host of  Navigating the Cancer Maze radio program on the VoiceAmerica Health and Wellness  Channel Friday, February 22,  at 1 p.m. Pacific Time. Available as a MP3 download at VoiceAmerica anytime or liste  to replay – streaming audio. Free sign up to Voice America to download.Download from itunes.

Caryle HirshbergCaryle Hirshberg, M.S author Spontaneous Remission and Remarkable Recovery; pioneer researcher, lecturer joins host Grace Gawler to discuss what was discovered from the research. The topic – Why people Heal – Lessons learned from studies of Spontaneous Remissions

http://www.voiceamerica.com/episode/67536/navigating-the-cancer-maze-why-people-heal-lessons-learned-from-studies-of-spontaneous-remissions    (For resources mentioned in this interview – select “More” icon at end of this story and scroll).

Spontaneous Remission launched Caryle Hirshberg into the cancer spotlight when it was published in 1993 by the institute of Noetic Sciences (IONS). The book filled a gap in research, as before that time there was no standard reference for the field of spontaneous remission. Then, in 1994 Remarkable Recovery was published; a book of stories about patient unexplained recoveries. Both  book looked at unexplained recoveries from medical literature and although considered a rare phenomena – they were surprised at the number of references they found. It piqued their interest to know more….

Just for a moment, turn back the clock to 1994. Can you imagine the New York Literary Guild’s Lawrence Van Gelder writing in the NY Times that the three hottest books on the horizon were ‘Like Water for Chocolate’, ‘The Horse Whisperer’ and, amazingly a nonfiction work; ‘Remarkable Recovery’ a book that offered scientific evidence that people recover from seemingly terminal illnesses more frequently than is supposed. Hirshberg’s well researched works of science not only captivated cancer patients worldwide but they marked a beginning of an almost cult-like fascination with healing in the public arena.

Caryle Hirshberg, Project Manager at IONS and the late Brendan O’Regan, Vice President of Research at IONS joined forces to create a project that had never been researched before. So was born ‘The Remission Project’ at IONS, California. The Spontaneous remission Hirshbergtask was enormous; to catalogue the world’s medical literature on the subject. This resulted in an assembly of the largest database of medically reported cases of spontaneous remission in the world, with more than 3,500 references from more than 800 journals in 20 different languages.

Caryle Hirshberg will discuss her role in this formative period in American healing history with Grace Gawler. The theme is why people heal from diseases that were deemed incurable. This was a courageous topic to pursue; to study the seemingly miraculous while keeping science and well researched data on track. This was the first time that a research group not only gathered medical data from journals worldwide; but they dared to look at why people recovered and what we might learn from their turnaround to stay well. The book was controversial, inspiring and as well gained attack from some medical corners; yet the material they researched was from medical journals. Like TV’s past science hero, Professor Julius Sumner Miller; Hirshberg and O’Regan were brave enough to ask the fundamental scientific question; ‘Why is it so?’

Select read more to access Resources from todays show Continue reading “Spontaneous Remission – Researcher Caryle Hirshberg-Navigating the Cancer Maze Grace Gawler”

Navigating the Vascular Maze in Cancer Patients-a Silent and Potentially deadly issue – Grace Gawler

Last Friday on my internet radio show, Navigating the Cancer Maze I interviewed a Gold Coast Vascular Surgeon because I was interested to get the latest information on how Cancer patients can manage the issue of DVT, embolisms and other blood clotting issues

Last Friday on my internet radio show, Navigating the Cancer Maze I interviewed  a Gold Coast Vascular Surgeon because I was interested to get the latest information on how Cancer patients can manage the issue of DVT, embolisms and other blood clotting issues. I have known Dr John for some time and thankfully he had alerted me to the issues of DVT when I had been a patient undergoing repeated and long surgical procedures. His advice was invaluable.

As far as cancer patients are concerned; this is a serious matter and more education is needed – especially interms of safe air travel and also whether a cancer patient or not – for any of us sitting immobile for long periods of time can be a problem. Dr John provides us with great advice – simple preventive measures for avoiding vascular  problems.

DVT Navigating the Cancer MazeCancer patients have a dramatically increased risk of strokes, heart attacks and dangerous blood clots in the lungs (pulmonary embolism) and in the legs (deep vein thrombosis). Did you know that – a cancer patient has 7 times the risk of developing a blood clot.
It is not all doom and gloom – but knowing this fact empowers us to to be proactive, seek good advice and or if we detect or suspect an issue – you may save your life by early intervention.

In this interview  with Dr John you will learn about the vascular system and lifestyle issues that can cause a stroke. You will learn about tests and scans you should have to check out veins and arteries, things you can take to offset clotting affects – issues that MUST be discussed with your doctor or oncologist.  Basically  Clotting risk should be assessed in all patients with cancer. Whenever  you are hospitalised, if you are a cancer patient……ask about treatment to prevent DVT or PE both in hospital and at home.

In hospital, you may be given heparin or low molecular weight heparin. Compression stockings…getting you mobile ASAP is a good intervention.However – Patients should be aware of signs and symptoms of DVT/PE – and if you suspect an issue – DONT DELAY GETTING ATTENTION…

I have had many  patients who have ignored advice regarding anticlotting medications before during and after air-travel. Patients have returned from cancer treatments overseas not following the advice and have lost their lives to DVT and pulmonary embolisms or stroke. Quite a number of them had significant reduction in their cancer – but died due to their likely preventable vascular events. Fitted  pressure stockings will help and in the interview Dr John gives us a powerful tool for clearing the large muscles of the calf when we travel or if we are immobile for a long period – particularly if there is pressure to the back of the calf muscle. Continue reading “Navigating the Vascular Maze in Cancer Patients-a Silent and Potentially deadly issue – Grace Gawler”

Grace Gawler, Prof Alex Crandon Conversations about Gynaecological Cancer on Voice America

Voice America Grace Gawler talks with Prof Alex Crandon whose specialty is Surgical Gynaecologic Oncology and one of the few surgeons in the world practising Hyperthermic intraoperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy or HIPEC; a special type of surgery recommended for some women with ovarian cancer which promises to significantly improve survival.

How to Navigate the Gynaecologic Cancer Maze with Professor Alex Crandon                

February 1, 2013

Hosted by Grace Gawler
http://www.voiceamerica.com/episode/67129/how-to-navigate-the-gynaecologic-cancer-maze-with-professor-alex-crandon

It is important to be educated and to educate your teenagers and grandchildren: Safe sex has never been more important for protection against future cancer development. For those who are sexually active, a long-term, mutually monogamous relationship with an uninfected partner is the strategy most likely to prevent HPV infection!!!!

HPV16
HPV16

Did you know that …….

  1.  1.HPV ( Human Papilloma Virus ) is responsible for many cancers other than cancer of the cervix. When the new vaccines begin to act in a preventive way – we will see at least a 70% drop in diagnosed cases of cervical cancer.

2. Virtually all cervical cancers are caused by HPV infections, with just two HPV types, 16 and 18, responsible for about 70 percent of all cases.

3. We often think of the nasty diseases like Gonorrhea, chlamydia, and syphilis as being the dreaded STDs however today a  more silent offender is at work…a virus that can cause cancer 10- 15 years after the first infection….yes …it is HPV.

4. HPV also causes anal cancer, with about 85 percent of all cases caused by HPV-16. HPV types 16 and 18 have also been found to cause close to half of vaginal, vulvar, and penile cancers.

5. Most recently, HPV infections have been found to cause cancer of the oropharynx, which is the middle part of the throat including the soft palate, the base of the tongue, and the tonsils. In the United States, more than half of the cancers diagnosed in the oropharynx are linked to HPV-16.

6.The incidence of HPV-associated oropharyngeal cancer has increased during the past 20 years, especially among men. It has been estimated that, by 2020, HPV will cause more oropharyngeal cancers than cervical cancers in the United States . Reference: see end of blog.

Be educated on Womens Gynaecological Cancers and more……This week on Voice America’s Navigating the Cancer Maze I speak with  Prof Alex Crandon whose specialty is Surgical Gynaecologic Oncology and one of the few surgeons in the world practising Hyperthermic intraoperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy or HIPEC; a special type of surgery recommended for some women with ovarian cancer which promises to significantly improve survival. He was the first to introduce the method to Australia. When diagnosed with gynaecological cancer there are not only decisions to be made about a potentially life-threatening illness but the biggest challenge for a woman is also the morbidity factor; life quality and wellbeing and adapting to massive changes throughout and after treatments. Navigating the Cancer Maze focuses on best options for those dealing with cancer therefore I will be asking many questions of Prof Crandon covering the big 5 women’s gynaecological cancers; cervical, uterine, ovarian, vulval and ovarian germ cell cancer. Be informed! Imperative listening for all women!

http://www.voiceamerica.com/episode/67129/how-to-navigate-the-gynaecologic-cancer-maze-with-professor-alex-crandon

Who Is Prof Alex Crandon? M.B., B.S., PhD (Leeds)., F.R.C.O.G(Lond)., F.R.A.C.O.G., C.G.O.

Prof Alex Crandon is the Director of the Queensland Centre of Gynaecological Cancer, (est. 1993). A graduate of University of Sydney,1973; he initially worked at the Royal Alfred Hospital before training in the UK (1975-1980).

Prof Alex Crandon grace gawler institute
Prof Alex Crandon

He completed his postgraduate studies and specialist training in surgical gynaecology oncology. Between 1980 and 1993 he was a staff gynaecologic oncologist at Sydney’s Westmead Hospital and Chair of the Gynaecological Council at the University Qld from 1993 to 2004. In1993 he established the Queensland Centre for Gynaecological Cancer- now the largest gynaecological cancer service in Australia and one of the ten largest in the World.

In 1997 Mr John Gower & Prof Alex Crandon set up the Gynaecological Cancer Society, which now provides a wide range of services to patients throughout Australia. Prof Alex Crandon has a major interest in improving the results for the treatment for ovarian cancer especially in HIPEC. Hyperthermic Intra-Peritoneal Chemotherapy.

For further helpful information about gynaecological cancer please visit:  http://www.igcs.com.au/pil/default.htm

To contact prof Crandon please select: http://www.materonline.org.au/specialist/gynaecologic-oncology/prof-alex-crandon

Resources and references:

http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/factsheet/Risk/HPV

I hope you find this edition of Navigating the Cancer Maze helpful. Email questions to: institute@gracegawler.com

Grace Gawler blog – cancer survival

There is nothing quite as compelling as a personal story well told – Listen to stories from Rev Ian Mavor and Deirdre Hanna on this week’s Navigating the Cancer Maze- Voice America internet radio:
http://www.voiceamerica.com/show/2125/navigating-the-cancer-maze

Surviving cancer at all costs often dominates the world of a cancer patient. In the alternative medicine movement in particular; blogs and websites – little if any attention is given to the “failure” factor – not popular on these sites for obvious reasons. Just imagine someone trying to sell you a “Cure for Cancer” – potions, tea, supplements and dietary regimens; if there was an “out-clause” – errr if this doesn’t work for you…here is what to do!!! It somewhat destroys the ‘faith factor’ doesn’t it.

Cancer counsellors, cancer entrepreneurs, cancer authors must be more responsible and address the issue of what to do, what strategies to employ just incase things don’t work out as hoped for – the possibility or probability of not making it through cancer or some other life threatening challenges is real for many people. Denial and avoidance are not useful ways of dealing with a truth that will – at sometime confront. Let’s face it we are all going to go at some time! Most of the people who have died in the past 12 months that I know have not been cancer patients! There have been heart attacks, accidents and other unexpected life events. So Death – the great adventure is something we all need to be prepared for….as many have said – dealing with death fees up more energy for living. This is especially important if you have been diagnosed with a life challenging illness.

This week on Navigating the Cancer Maze I interviewed Rev Dr Ian Mavor and Deirdre Hanna from Hopewell Centre on Australia’s Gold Coast. http://www.hopewell.org.au/ http://www.paradisekids.org.au/ I chose to interview this couple because they do not give lips service -they know what it is like to work at the coalface of life’s big issues ….end of life experience, grief and loss with adults and children. Their work is important and they reach many – but their concept could reach further into our society. Of course their work goes far beyond cancer. How we all deal with grief, loss, shock, betrayals etc can form the substrate of who we present to the world. I believe, and many would agree, that the way we learn to deal with life’s big issues can significantly affect health in all manner of ways.

So Paradise kids is a creative and compassionate vehicle for children to talk about, share and acknowledge how they feel about the loss and grief they have incurred whether through death in a family, divorce etc … Click here to donate to and Support Paradise Kids

Navigating the Cancer Maze Voice America Grace GawlerThis interview is highly recommended as the subject is often avoided.

Navigating the Cancer Maze The most important issue we can address – death; the great adventure

January 18, 2013

Today on Navigating the Cancer Maze we are going to talk about one of the most if not THE most difficult issues for discussion for cancer patients, families and friends of cancer patients. This an episode to bookmark for if and ever you are faced with helping someone with an end of life experience. Talking about palliative care, grief, loss and death is often seen as an unpalatable subject for cancer patients who want to be pro active with searching for the “cure”. But the reality is not everyone makes it through the journey of cancer and one thing is certain; we all must die at some time. What can be done to prepare? How can dealing with death free up energy for living? Rev Dr Ian Mavor and his wife Deirdre Hanna have chosen one of the most challenging vocations. Hospice, palliative care and helping people through loss and grief is their daily menu. Together they founded the Hopewell Centre and Paradise kids on Australia’s Gold Coast. www.hopewell.org.au              www.paradisekids.org.au

About

Rev. Dr Ian  Mavor

Rev. Dr Ian Mavor, OAM, FACE A Uniting Church Minister, much of Ian’s professional life has been in specialist roles. Co-Founder Rev Dr Ian Mavorand Executive Director Ian serves as Executive Director of Hopewell Hospice Services Inc which includes Hopewell Hospice, Paradise Kids, the Living Well Centre and the Hopewell College of Transformative Education. He is a member of the Health Community Council-Gold Coast Health District and a member of the State Council of Palliative Care Queensland. In 2002, Ian was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) “For service to the community through a range of church, social welfare, education and health groups”. http://www.hopewell.org.au

About 

Deirdre  Hanna

Deirdre Hanna is founding President and Executive Director of Children’s Services (Paradise Kids) and Spiritual Care. Deirdre’s Deirdre Hanna Paradise kidsbackground includes Bachelor of Theology (B.Th), Certificate in Transpersonal Psychotherapy and Counselling; Doctoral Student, University of Creation Spirituality; Multi-Disciplinary Certificate in Hospice Care, St Christopher’s London; Certificate in Mindfulness Meditation, Massachusetts Medical School Mind-Body Stress Reduction Clinic; Certificate in Spiritual Retreat Leading and Direction. Diploma of Nutrition and Dietetics; Diploma in Swedish Massage. Zonta Gold Coaster of the Year, (1994) Winston Churchill Memorial Fellow 1995 (Spiritual Care for Cancer Patients), The City of Gold Coast Women at Work wonderful 20th Century Gold Coast Women Award, Gold Coast Bulletin Community Service Medal, 2007; Member of the Churchill Fellows Association; Princeton Global Network. http://www.paradisekids.org.au

The Grace Gawler Institute is supported by:

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Grace Gawler Navigating the Cancer Maze on VoiceAmerica and WorldTalk radio

If you have missed Navigating the Cancer Maze I invite you to visit VoiceAmerica and WorldTalk Radio Health & Wellness Channel. All shows are archived and can be downloaded as MP3 and shared. You simply need to join Voice America – no fee and have access to free and informed information via my show. Listen to interview with Fran Drescher: Cancer Schmancer is name that one could easily associate with Fran Drescher; loved by millions for her television role as ‘The Nanny’, this humorous, elegant, beautiful, fun loving celebrity has a more serious side to her life and mission.

What an amazing opportunity to be approached by an American internet radio producer in 2012 and then asked to submit an application for a new radio show that has the possibility of reaching millions of people; not only in the USA but around the world. I have always liked the educative part of working with cancer so this show really fits the bill and….it is free to air! As the show now continues into the new year; 2013, I have some really wonderful guests lined up. Cancer specialists, celebrities, researchers, authors, authorities on what’s in our personal body and cosmetic products, balanced nutrition for cancer patients and more…

If you have missed Navigating the Cancer Maze I invite you to visit VoiceAmerica and WorldTalk Radio Health & Wellness Channel. All shows are archived and can be downloaded as MP3 and shared. You simply need to join Voice America – no fee and have access to free and informed information via my show. We go live to air each Friday 1 pm USA West Coast time – which is 6 am Queensland Australia time Saturday mornings.

I have outlined  a few of the top rating shows below with links directly to Voice America. Please enjoy! If you have a subject you would like to hear discussed on Navigating the Cancer Maze or if you have a skill in one of the areas above and would like to be interviewed: please email me at: institute@gracegawler.com    Please like Navigating the Cancer Maze FACEBOOK on VoiceAmerica.

Fran Drescher: Cancer Schmancer is name that one could easily associate with Fran Drescher; loved by millions for her television role as ‘The Nanny’, this humorous, elegant, beautiful, fun loving celebrity has a more serious side to her life and mission.

Listen in to Voice America’s frandrescher-gracegawler-voiceamericaHealth and Wellness Channel Grace Gawler’s Navigating the Cancer Maze to hear about Fran’s cancer journey and how her life adversity launched a new movement in cancer awareness; the Cancer Schmancer Movement. What connects Fran Drescher and Grace Gawler? Both women have experienced great life adversities. Both women are using their lives to help others through the course of early cancer diagnosis.

 A uterine cancer survivor, Fran Drescher is an outspoken healthcare advocate and LGBT rights activist, and is noted for her work as a Public Diplomacy Envoy for Women’s Health Issues for U.S. State Department. A survivor of rape in 1985 and then diagnosed with uterine cancer in 2000, she wrote about her experiences in her second book, Cancer Schmancer. Her purpose. has also this book was to raise consciousness for men and women “to become more aware of the early warning signs of cancer, and to empower themselves.” The Cancer Schmancer Movement followed. see Fran’s website: http://www.cancerschmancer.org

Direct link to VoiceAmerica and WorldTalk internet radio
http://www.voiceamerica.com/episode/65743/special-encore-presentation-navigate-the-cancer-maze-in-conversation-with-survivors-fran-drescher

Dr Emmett Miller the Physician Who Chose Creative Instruments of Healing to Help People Navigate the Healing Maze.

Dr Emmett Miller. Often acknowledged as one of the fathers of Mind/Body Medicine, Dr. Miller is a physician, poet, musician, and master storyteller, whose multicultural heritage has given him a unique social, medical, and spiritual perspective.

His commitment to helping us to Emmett miller picreclaim our inborn personal wisdom, integrated with the scientific knowledge and techniques of modern medicine, has allowed him to unite seemingly disparate fields of knowledge and experience. For more than 45 years, it has been his inspiration and his challenge to help people discover this truth for themselves. His message of hope, his vision of a brighter future, and his spirit of wellbeing, has touched millions.

As a physician, health educator and a pioneer in a field that is now on the cutting edge of modern medicine, Dr. Miller brings us a deeper understanding mind and body harmony. My interview with Dr Miller will focus on the power of imagery in healing and recovery.   http://drmiller.com/

My interview with Dr Emmett Miller interview touches on the mind-emotion and soul aspect of healing and recovery.
Direct link to VoiceAmerica and WorldTalk internet radio
http://www.voiceamerica.com/episode/66070/special-encore-presentation-dr-emmett-miller-the-physician-who-chose-creative-instruments-of-healing

Prof. Ray Lowenthal AO Oncologist/Haematologist/Researcher
Navigating the Cancer Maze – the Evolution of Oncology-What’s Changed?

In this informative episode I focus on the evolution of conventional oncology in my interview with Pioneer Medical Oncologist and Haematologist Prof. Ray Lowenthal AO.

His research focuses on leukaemia, lymphoma, bone marrow transplantation and clinical trials of new Professor Ray Lowenthal UTAS oncology haematologycancer treatments.An author of over 100 scientific papers; as a pioneer oncologist, Prof Lowenthal undertook postgraduate training 1968-75 in the UK including nearly 3 years at the Medical Research Council’s Leukaemia Unit at Hammersmith Hospital, London.

Returning to Australia in 1975 he accepted a position at the University of Tasmania where he remains today. Concerned about misinformation in cancer medicine & being in the position of a pioneer in Oncology; he authored a book for the public; “Cancer: What to do about it”. Given the rise in popularity of alt medicine treatments for cancer; a new and updated edition is being considered. Reducing the impact of cancer in Indigenous communities has been another key interest.  http://www.menzies.utas.edu.au/

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED LISTENING for anyone considering cancer treatments

Direct link to VoiceAmerica and WorldTalk internet radio
http://www.voiceamerica.com/episode/66219/navigating-the-cancer-maze-the-evolution-of-oncology-whats-changed

A GEM of an interview – please listen to: Spinning Gold from Straw:  How trauma transformed a Doctor’s Life and Practice  Dr Bruce Whelan (Specialist GP)

Dr Bruce Whelan is a specialist GP who has been in Practice for 45 years. His passion for his vocation remains high with specialties in pain Dr Bruce Whelanmanagement, addiction and a broad range of physical and psychological issues including cancer medicine. Dr Whelan quotes Carl Jung when I ask him about his way of helping patients; he answers “Only the wounded physician can help to heal.” Defining the difference between healing and curing is important in understanding the complexities of recovery from illness. Dr Whelan frames this within his own life story when in October 2002 he became personally involved in the aftermath of the Bali bombing that killed 202 people. He describes the impact on his family &  resultant PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder) he suffered. However, after his recovery, he returned to medicine with new insights and understanding having been through a ‘dark night of the soul’ experience. This is an inspiring & timely interview for anyone in recovery from any malady.

Direct link to VoiceAmerica and WorldTalk internet radio
http://www.voiceamerica.com/episode/66445/spinning-gold-from-straw-how-trauma-transformed-a-doctors-life-and-practice