Randy Lopez Testimonial for Block Center Integrative Treatment Center

An ice cream cone was my tipping point.

At that time I was living in Florida and concerned with a new job and dealing with a recent relocation from our home in southern California.  My wife and our two daughters were at “Twistee Treat” and having a nice weekend day together when I decided to turn a shade of green.  At 34, my doctor had explained earlier that I had an internal hemorrhoid and that symptoms would come and go.  This was before the “Couric effect” and I wasn’t aware of colon cancer and its symptoms.

The following day I began my formal introduction into a whirlwind of doctor visits, scans, colonoscopies, surgery and chemo to combat what was determined to be Stage 3 Colon Cancer.  My wife, Beatrice and my daughters, Caitlin and Natalie became my team along with my incredible in-laws and parents.  Less than a year after finishing chemo, a metastasize was found in my liver and I began another battle with my Stage 4 status: liver resection and another bout of chemo.

In the 13+ years since diagnosis, I’ve learned so much about how to deal with cancer physically and emotionally.  My wife and I changed my diet, I’ve tried to laugh more, and everyone who knows me or meets me gets a few stories of my “cancer story”.  I’ve been fortunate to be able to tell my story at various conferences, events, and was even featured in CNN’s “Surviving Cancer with Dr. Gupta and Lance Armstrong” a few years ago.   As a member of the Colon Cancer Alliance, I acted as spokesperson with Olympic gold medalist Dara Torres.  And as a personal high point in my life, I had the opportunity to meet Mel Brooks and thank him for being part of my healing process by giving me laughs when I was listening to his “2000 year-old Man” recordings during chemo.

In the years since being first diagnosed, my wife and I have seen the medical community begin to understand the treatment of the whole person including diet, attitude, and including traditional and non-traditional means of treatment.  I continue sourcing new treatments and leaders in the cancer battle to pass on information to others and to keep an eye out in case it comes back again.

Personally, I speak to cancer patients all the time but my major focus is speaking to those that should be screened for cancer due to a family history or have symptoms.  These are the people that Get Your Rear in Gear supports.  And my personal mission is the same – To ensure that all citizens have adequate information and access to screening for colon cancer.

Please join me in supporting the Colon Cancer Coalition and Get Your Rear in Gear and I look forward to telling more of my story in the future.  Feel free to contact me on Twitter @randylopez and @stage4survivor.

Let’s get the word out about screening and education.
Don’t wait for an ice cream cone to change your life.

Want to see more on Randy?  Click on these links below:

Back when we created our “Stories” section of the website, we weren’t sure how we would get warriors to tell their story.   We ended up writing a couple stories through interviews, but eventually Trish Lannon jumped on board and wrote her story for Get Your Rear in Gear.  It ignited others to follow in writing their stories.

When I heard Trish was going to be down on her favorite team’s field on national television in pink, I asked her to share her journey and what it felt like to be on that field.  There is a common thread between breast and colon cancer linked as the soft tissue cancers.  It’s hard enough to get one of these cancers, but imagine what it feels like to have both.

The Crucial Catch

By Trish Lannon

Dx Stage 3C Colon Cancer in March 2007/Dx DCIS Stage 0 Grade 3 Breast Cancer in April 2009

Trish pledges to the flag and cancer

Currently NED
Pink. I am not a big fan of pink. I never had a pink room or a pink phone – and when I had my daughters, I never decorated their rooms in pink or dressed them head to toe in pink. I would often find myself quite annoyed that the world was covered in pink – especially during the month of  October. My yogurt, my daughter’s tennis racket, even the fire starter sticks we use in our fireplace were covered in pink or pink ribbons. What about all the other cancers? What about colon cancer?! Where is all the blue? After being diagnosed with Stage 3C colon cancer when I was 39 years old, I wanted the world to be covered in blue – I wanted to share my story with anyone who would listen so they and their families would never have to go through what I went through. What my family went through. Two years after my colon cancer diagnosis, I would find myself surrounded by the color pink.

On April 14th, 2009, I got the call I was not expecting at all. A biopsy that had to be done on my left breast four days earlier had come back positive for breast cancer – specifically DCIS stage 0 grade 3. I had been NED (no evidence of disease) for 16 months when I got the call that I had breast cancer. I was told it was not my colon cancer coming back and spreading, but a totally separate primary cancer.

On the field

Due to the number of areas in my left breast that had linear calcifications, my surgeon told me I would have to have a mastectomy of my left breast. I then met with my oncologist who laid out all of the statistics for me, which led me to make the decision to have a double mastectomy. I did not want to find myself in this situation again 5 or 10 years from now.

On May 15th, 2009, I had a double mastectomy and began the reconstruction process. Since I was stage 0 and my sentinel nodes came back clean, I did not need chemo. When I woke up in the recovery room, a woman I did not know from some sort of breast cancer support group associated with the hospital was standing over me. She reached down and touched my arm and told me they were there to support me all the way through breast cancer. She then handed me a pink duffle bag filled with everything pink – pink water bottle, pink blanket, pink jewelry, pink hat, pink shirt, and more. I could not embrace the pink! Imagine my surprise when I was invited by a local breast cancer awareness organization, The Tyanna Foundation, to participate in the Baltimore Ravens kickoff of their breast cancer awareness month activities, “The Crucial Catch.” I am a HUGE Ravens fan and have had season tickets for several years now. The chance to be on the field during a game was intoxicating.

Trish in a close up shot with other warriors on the field

I joined about 30 other survivors who were given special T-Shirts to wear and given brief instructions about what to do once on the field. The game was going to be nationally televised and they were having country music singer, Martina McBride, sing the national anthem. We were going to be standing on either side of Martina while she sang. Fans were given pink ribbons as they entered the stadium and special cards were placed in the seats on the visitor’s side that spelled out “A Crucial Catch” and displayed pink ribbons when the fans would hold them up together.

While the Ravens Marching Band was on the field, we were escorted out the very same entryway the Ravens players run out when they are being introduced. Once I got through the tunnel and onto the field, my entire body was covered in goose bumps. There were over 70,000 football fans in the stadium, staff from both teams on the sidelines, and television cameras everywhere.

Photographers were following all of us around the sidelines taking pictures.  We were taken around the whole field and to the Ravens sideline where we got a close-up view of the team introductions.  It was the most amazing feeling to be on the field and hear everyone cheering and see the players up close.  Once the players were on the sideline we were shuffled out to the field to take  our positions.

When the announcements began, I turned to look over at the visitor’s side and was amazed by the powerful message being held up by the fans.  It was probably the first time that seeing things covered in pink didn’t bother me.  I suddenly became very emotional listening to everyone cheering us on for being survivors – even the players were cheering for us.  When Martina McBride started singing the National Anthem, I found myself singing along with her as loud as I could.  It was all over so quickly and they rushed us off the field so the game could begin.  As we all headed back into the tunnel, fans on both sides cheered us on – we all felt very special that night.  As I stood in the tunnel at Ravens Stadium, in the same place where future Hall of Fame football players have stood, I turned and took one last look at a stadium filled with pink.

Two cancers in two years.  Two.  What are the odds? I speak out about colon cancer almost daily to whomever will listen and now I have begun to encourage everyone to get a mammogram and not put it off.  My mammogram saved my life and it was my first one!   I am also learning to embrace pink.  I still don’t love that it is everywhere and on everything, but I have come to realize that as passionate as I am about advocating for colon cancer awareness, I have room to advocate for breast cancer awareness.  Heck, I even bought a pair of hot pink high heeled shoes!

Trish gives her thumbs up tto pink

Cancer Had It’s Hooks in Me

I feel like I’ve been through a war this year.  I’ve been beaten down, broken, but never out of the fight.  In fact, I’m rising out of the ashes, I’m pissed, and I’m coming out swinging!

I’m David McCluskey, and I’m a cancer survivor.  Those from my hometown in Grinnell, IA, know me as David Dimit, which is confusing for some, but it need not be.  Think of it this way, I have the dual honor of carrying on my grandparent’s last name, (Wayne, who died of Lung Cancer in 1998, and Phyllis McCluskey, who died of Emphysema in 1993), and appreciate the love, adoption, and acceptance of the entire Dimit family, not just once in my life, but twice.  If you still find this confusing, get over it, I could never be more blessed.

How did you know?

The first question I always get is, “How did you know?”  I didn’t.  But, I did listen to my body telling me something wasn’t right.  I was at a trade show in Las Vegas in October of 2006, when I noticed a little bit of blood in my stools, not much, but it concerned me a little, blood is blood, right?

When I started paying attention, I realized that I had been experiencing some irregularity, (constipation and diarrhea essentially), but didn’t think much of it.  I am in outside sales, so I travel a lot, didn’t eat right, didn’t exercise, drank a little, and was a smoker.  So, what do you do?  Mix in a little Raisin Bran, try to stop smoking, and go make that next sale.  I had to keep moving, I have a family to help support.

Someone Saved My Life

But, things persisted.  I finally decided on New Year’s Eve that  to go see my doctor, Jeffrey Schoon, DO.  I guess I was just tired of feeling tired, and something just wasn’t right.  After meeting with Dr. Schoon, we were both pretty confident there was nothing to be concerned about, “You’re pretty young,” he said, “Probably just a hemorrhoid, but why don’t we schedule a colonoscopy, just to be sure?”  I agreed, and we scheduled it for February 15th, 2007.  Dr. Schoon saved my life that day.

February 15th, 2007, is the day that changed my life forever.  It is the day of my colonoscopy and cancer diagnosis, (Jeffrey Stahl, MD),  and my world was turned upside down.  It was a whirlwind day, quite a blur actually.  I remember waking up from my colonoscopy, with my wife, her dad and mom, (Bob &  Nonie Doty), and sister, (Carla Reindel), looking at me with the most concerned, red, puffy eyes.  Not a good sign that all is well.

Family is the Foundation

My beautiful wife, Winonah, broke the news to me that I had cancer.  I’m so glad that I heard it from her.  I know she was shaken to the core, but she was so strong and reassuring.  Quite honestly, she is the strongest person I know.  She gets it from her family.  The strength of the Doty Family is unbelievable.  We started to cope immediately as we were off to see Sue Beckwith, MD, for a surgical consultation.

Winonah and Bob took me to see Dr. Beckwith, who specializes in Colorectal Surgery.  Again, a whirlwind and a blur, and the next thing we know I’m scheduled for surgery the next day.  Our thought, “Let’s get this thing out of me, NOW!!!”  Certainly a quick decision, but in retrospect, I’m glad we just pulled the trigger.  No better time than the present to take a step forward.

My brother, Greg, arrived early the morning of my surgery, He drove straight through the night from Chicago to be by my side.  There is nothing I can say that could possibly relay how important Greg is in my life.  He is a rock, and I would be lost without him.  The love and support of his wife, Chris, the Dimit, Doty, Reindel, Solik, Cantrell, and entire Saracco Family has been overwhelming.  My brother and I have been blessed with great family and friends.  Thank you to everyone for your support!!!!

Now the Fun Begins

I really don’t know how to describe what the following 9 months brought me.  The colon resection surgery, (Sue Beckwith, MD), was off the pain scale, followed by chemotherapy & radiation, (John Martens, MD), genetic testing, (Pati Berger, RN), a hernia repair, (Mike Mohan, MD), and more chemotherapy, (Robert Behrens, MD).  If there is a side affect, I think I’ve had it.  We are finished with the chemotherapy, and ready to get on with our lives after treatment.  It was very difficult, to say the least, but is now a distant memory.

My entire medical team has been unbelievable!  I can’t begin to thank everyone who has been involved with my health care.  Our very dear friend Denise Albert, (Registered Dietician, University of Iowa) saved my life with her advice.  I was withering away to nothing, until she got involved with my care and turned things around.  She is so talented, and a great friend.  Valerie Ripperger, (massage therapist) helped me get on the road to recovery physically.  She is a healer, and was a good friend with an attentive ear.  Everyone at Mercy Therapeutic Radiology Associates, Medical Oncology and Hematology Associates, (especially Ramona!), Iowa Methodist Medical Center, and Mercy Medical Center in Des Moines has been a truly committed team.  Thank you for all you do!

New Friends and “The Rally”

I would be remiss if I didn’t mention a special couple who came into our lives since our diagnosis, and really made a difference during this difficult time, Don and Jennifer Slagle.  Don and I have become good friends, and I would have felt so alone without him.  It was amazing to share such a difficult journey with him.  I feel like we will always have a special connection.  I wouldn’t wish this experience on anyone, but being able to share it with someone like Don was truly a blessing.

A special thank you to Carol Frazell.  Carol was an angel of light walking into our lives during a very dark time.  Thank you so much, Carol, you truly made a difference in our lives, and I know many others.  One last thank you to Kim Johnson for organizing the Rally Against Cancer.  We wouldn’t have Carol without Kim.  What a wonderful world we live in.  We are looking forward to giving back!

I can’t even begin to tell you how much my wife, Winonah, has meant to me throughout this very difficult time.  She has been my foundation, and is my strength.  There is no way, I mean NO WAY, I could’ve made it without her.  She is the light of my life, and I will honor and love her all the days of my life.

We are moving forward, and getting stronger every day.

Amy and her father in at the Aerial Lift Bridge in Duluth in 2009.

By Amy Wenzel, Get Your Rear in Gear Communications Intern

Editor’s Note: Colon Cancer Awareness Month is coming to a close, but that doesn’t mean that we will stop trying to “Get Your Rear in Gear.” In her own words, Amy Wenzel, a communications intern with the Colon Cancer Coalition / Get Your Rear in Gear, shares the story of her dad’s diagnosis with Stage 3 colorectal cancer. Amy is a great asset to the organization. Thank you, Amy, for sharing your story.

I was about to start my senior year of high school when my dad was diagnosed with Stage 3 colorectal cancer in 2004. As for many, it’s a moment you never will forget when you find out you or a loved one has cancer, especially one with a poor prognosis.

No matter what, cancer affects everyone. As a senior in high school, I was thinking about where I wanted to go to college. I would have liked to gone out-of-state for college but thought better of it not knowing what the immediate future held. Financially and emotionally I decided it was best to stay close to home.

The next year would be a hard one for my dad, my family and me. It was a rollercoaster of events. The surgery to remove the huge cancerous polyp went great and he was the “poster child” for healing and recovery according to his doctors. But the harsh chemo treatments, blood clots in the legs and an intestinal infection that led to a blood transfusion wore my dad down mentally and physically. I truly admired my dad’s positive attitude and his push to keep going that he kept through this journey. It amazed me how someone that is being beat by cancer could see the positive and that personally helped me get through this tough time. It was a long hard road and fortunately, my dad defeated the odds.

In 2007, my family entered the “Get Your Rear in Gear” 5K for the first time. It was a breathtaking moment seeing the sea of people out there walking in support of colon cancer awareness. It was amazing to see how many people have been affected by colon cancer and to think this was a cancer I hardly knew anything about a couple years before.

Life definitely has not been the same since colon cancer entered my life. I get my rear in gear everyday by living my life to the fullest and being healthy, active and being positive no matter what happens. I am excited to be a communications intern with Get Your Rear in Gear. It is a great feeling to know I am helping get the message out about how important colon cancer awareness and early screenings are. Colon cancer awareness is very important to me because a simple screening could have prevented what my dad went through. But thanks to those colonoscopies, it caught the cancer in time and my dad is still with us, and cancer free!

Dave Shogren talks with NBC and GYRIG fitness expert Chris Freytag at the Get Your Rear in Gear Event in 2010.

Motivated. Disciplined. Living life with meaning. And taking his health into his own hands. That’s what comes across when talking with Dave Shogren who shares his experience with GYRIG of being a cancer-survivor at 43 in the first part of our interview with him and the steps he’s taken to live cancer-free.

In the second part of our talk, he discusses how his life has changed and what motivates him, from caring for his family, dogs, and giving back.

GYRIG: Lance Armstrong was once famously asked if he saw himself first as a cancer-survivor or or the winner of The Tour de France. “Odd as it sounds, I would rather have the title of cancer survivor than winner of the Tour, because of what it has done for me as a human being, a man, a husband, a son, and a father,” he said.

Does this have resonance for you, and do you take inspiration from him?

DS: I read his book It’s Not About the Bike and what he went through. His cancer was much more vicious. And the physical toll he went through, chemo that would have killed most people. The cancer was in his brain . . . not good chances. And then he went on to become a world class athlete.

So yeah, he’s inspiring. But then every cancer survivor should be looked at as an inspiration to us all, because 60% of folks are survivors, and 40% aren’t.

I still have neuropathy in my feet from chemo. I can’t feel my them and it’s uncomfortable to run, but I’ll get back to that bit by bit. My goal is to run Get Your Rear in Gear this year as opposed to walking it.

See Dave’s interview with trainer Chris Freytag for NBC’s KARE-11 Sunrise last year when he walked the Twin Cities Get Your Rear in Gear 5K while still undergoing treatment.

GYRIG: And your priorities have changed as well?

DS: Yeah, if you or someone close to you experience cancer battle, it changes you and your perspective. Your priorities change. It’s always in the back of my mind, “I may have a finite amount of time.”

And what used to be a situation where my kids would say, “Dad will you come and play shoots and ladders with me?”, what years ago might have been, “Hold on a sec,” now unless what I’m doing is crucial, I’ll try to drop what I’m doing and go join them. But because of my financial situation after going through a cancer battle, I have some catching up to do. I wish I didn’t have to spend time away from them.

One night my daughter had already gone to bed after I got home from work, so I made a deal with her. We’d play bouncy-basketball and she’ll show me what’s she’s learning in gym class some morning later that week, which I can do because of how my work hours are structured.

And I’m going on spring break with my family because, who knows how much longer I might have—or my wife, because she has a history of cancer in her family too. And we have a little cabin in Wisconsin that I cherish where there’s no phone, no outside activities, where we can just be together as a family.

My main goal is to provide for my children and family, and raise two kids in a manner so that they can be successful in life. And I mean that in broad terms, because by success I mean being responsible, having good work ethics, being confident. I don’t want them to have the attitude that they can get by with the bare minimum. And I want to be around to provide for them.

GYRIG: Do you feel there are still misconceptions about cancer?

DS: People don’t know how lucky they are until they have to deal with something like this. And I think they have this conception that it’s not going to happen to me, that it happens to somebody else, or to old people. Young people especially think that. But when I was going through chemo, I sat next to a guy in the waiting room whose girlfriend died of colon cancer at 24, another person who was 19. I talk to people who’ve been devastated by health issues, and until you’re in that position, you under-appreciate what you have.

Generally I think people aren’t aware or are complacent about preventing cancer. Statistics from the American Cancer Society say that 75% of families are affected by cancer. Today the odds are that 50% of men will get it, and 33% of women.

Not a day goes by that I don’t think about it. I think it would be fair to say, most people who’ve had it are pleased to be alive and to have weathered the storm. I think about it every time I step into the cold and feel my hands [and the neuropathy], or when I order something to eat, what’s the healthiest things my kids can order, or what to buy at the grocery store. It enters into many decisions over the course of the day.

But you know, there are always people out there who’ve overcome these things. And I believe ultimately it’s about how disciplined you are. I wish I were more disciplined. But you know, now I’m taking it one day at a time, and doing the best I can with cards I’ve been dealt.

GYRIG: You’re inspired by people who are disciplined?

DS: Yeah I’m a huge sports person. And most successful sports people have been extremely disciplined in their work ethic. And I’m definitely inspired by that. People who are disciplined generally are healthier, happier, and more successful.

So I try to set concrete goals for myself. My goals are very short term, going out and working every day and staying healthy . . . because without my health I have nothing. My kids don’t have a father; my wife doesn’t have a husband. It’s a fine line, discipline but also balance.

GYRIG: Where do you want to be in 20 years?

DS: I want the ability to get my kids through college. And at 63—about eight years before that, I’d like to be retired at 55 and still have my health and do things. I climbed a couple mountains before, Mount Adams and Mount Hood in Oregon and Washington . . .  not huge mountains but still mountains.

GYRIG: You want to climb more mountains?

DS: Well, I don’t know about that . . . well, who knows!

I like to travel around and do physical things. Like when my wife and I had gone on vacation in Hawaii hiking through jungles, finding waterfalls. I don’t want to be old and decrepit and can’t do that, you need your health. I want to be able to do whatever I decide to attempt. Keep myself cancer-free, and get myself in shape. I may never lose neuropathy issues, but if that’s what I have to deal with, then that’s what I have to deal with.

GYRIG: And you’re thinking of getting a dog?

DS: Yeah, the loyalty and love that a dog has for you is unlike anything else. They go a long ways to adding joy and good karma, having a dog.

When I was going through cancer, a little dog came to stay with me who belonged to friend who was also going through cancer at the time. It was so cool to have dog around. I gave him a bath because he stank a little. But the funny thing is,this dog had the ability to understand that something was not quite right, and he stayed glued to me.

You know, you leave the house, and a half-hour later you come home and the dog’s like, “OMG you’re home!” If we could all be a little more like our dogs. They just add a lot of joy.

As we wind up Dave hands over a pamphlet for a non-profit that offers an affordable cabin retreat in the Wisconsin woods for cancer patients, survivors and their families to go and get away. “It’s a place where people can go to relax a bit and tune-out. The woman who started it wanted to do something after her husband died of cancer. Actually I just met her a few days before talking with you . . . and it’s one of those things, if it can help someone, I just wanted to pass it on,” he says. “A few of us have offered to help her get this off the ground, provide a little sweat equity,” he says smiling.

“We’re all in this together.”

Dave is actively involved in the community and says he’s happy to talk to groups or anyone who might be interested in more information about his experience, nutritional program, etc. Contact Dave.

Despite medical guidelines, which suggest screening by age 50 (or earlier when an individual has a family history of colon cancer), Hunt did not undergo his first colonoscopy until he was 56. It was a choice that many make—and one that put his health in jeopardy.

Despite presenting symptom-free at his appointment, Hunt’s cancer had spread beyond his colon to a lymph node. He required six months of chemotherapy and surgical intervention, but the good news is: he’s now cancer free.

Now, Hunt is helping GYRIG spread its message about the critical importance of early screening.

Watch Hunt’s television interview.

Dave Shogren poses with his family, Christmas 2010.

“I’m thinking of getting a dog!” Its Sunday morning and a tall, athletic guy in a ball cap just bumped into friend and GYRIG founder Kristin Tabor at a busy neighborhood coffee house.

“Maybe a Border Terrier. Something big enough that can go running with me and can go up north . . . that’s not going to get carried off by an eagle,” he says.

The two launch into conversation about their latest doings, work and kids when Kristin turns mid-sentence, face animated, and says, “OMG this is Dave Shogren!”, adding in the thought-bubble above her head, “You know, Dave Shogren the cancer survivor you’re doing a follow-up piece on!”

There was a moment of disconnect while processing the fact that the fit, clear-eyed guy standing in front of us was also the guy who’d just completed grueling treatment for Stage III colon cancer less than a year ago. If instead he’d been introduced as the guy preparing for his fifth consecutive Iditarod or Grandma’s half-marathon, I wouldn’t have batted an eye.

He was diagnosed suddenly at age 41, as Kristin discusses in her profile of Dave in December, 2009, without major warning signs or ill health. Today since completing treatment in July 2010, he’s living cancer free, active, doing work he loves, and from the sound of it, planning spring break outings and a surprise puppy for his kids.

When Dave sits down to talk a few days later, dressed in an orange top and black fleece vest, he leans into the table and speaks with passion about his family, cancer prevention, and what inspires him.

From his words, it’s clear he shares similar convictions as his friend Kristin: Live life with meaning, and take charge of your own health.

In part one of our interview, he discusses his experience, attitude and the steps he’s taken in his quest to live cancer-free.

GYRIG: I’d heard you’d always been considered “the healthy one” by your friends. Were you surprised when you were diagnosed with stage three colon cancer at age 41?

DS: Yeah it was kind of a shock because I’d been somebody who’d always kept myself in good shape. During my lunch hour I rode my bike and trained for triathlons, made my own sandwiches with cucumbers and sprouts on top while a lot of the other guys were heading out to Burger King and McDonalds.

I even ate high-fiber cereals because I knew my grandfather had had colon cancer. I did what I thought I should be doing . . . but sometimes it’s out of our control. I mean I’m sure people were like, “Oh if Shogren can get diagnosed . . . .”

So to suddenly be in a life and death struggle, major surgery for the first time in my life, twenty days in the hospital—only time before was when I had my tonsils out—it’s a little surprising. I never thought I’d go through something like that.

But you know, from the absolute first moment I was told I had cancer, I never doubted that I would not be here. I will do everything in my power to defeat this and watch my kids grow up.

GYRIG: How much do you feel that attitude has helped you in being cancer-free?

DS: I don’t know. I think it all helps. Everything I did revolved around defeating this disease. Juicing fruits and vegetables, eliminating all sugar, eating whole grains and vegetables, no more crappie food of any kind. No pop, no MSG, no artificial chemical sweeteners like Splenda and Aspartame that’s in everything from sugar-free gum, diet coke, anything low-calorie. I went online and researched.

And before surgery, I was in the best shape I’d been in for a decade. I’d be down lifting while my son was outside shooting pucks. I didn’t lose my hair during chemo, and I didn’t look that different than I do now, maybe just a little piqued.

I also spent a lot of time visualizing the death and destruction of cancer cells in my body. I told myself a thousand times, “I will defeat cancer.”

GYRIG: Are you doing anything differently than before in terms of cancer-prevention?

DS: I’ve always been healthy, that’s the scary thing. But yeah I’ve really stepped-up my eating. It’s the only thing I got. There are tests and periodic colonoscopies to detect cancer. But really the only thing I’ve got going for me is to try and give my body everything it needs to fend cancer off.

I’ve read books on detoxing the body, and on juicing. There’s a great one called How to Defeat Cancer with Nutrition that I got at Barnes and Noble, which I think everyone should read whether they’ve gone through cancer or not. It changes the way you look at what you eat.

There are a couple cool things that stick out from that. Like in order to provide your body with enough vitamins, nutrients and trace minerals it really needs, you couldn’t stalk all that food in your kitchen cupboards. You just can’t get everything you need from food today for a variety of reasons. Which is why supplements in powder and liquid form (not pill forms) are recommended.

The second thing—and I still do have occasional hamburgers—but cows aren’t genetically built to be corn eaters. Cows eat grass. But they’re being fed corn-based feeds. So what used to be beef one-hundred-fifty years ago is different than what it is now. Grasses have long roots systems that pull up trace nutrients . . . so our entire food chain, what we eat in this country is radically different than what it used to be a hundred years ago.

GYRIG: What’s your diet like now?

DS: I take a fiber mix and two different types of powdered greens every day, grind up organic flax seeds, and take a liquid forms of all-natural multivitamins to get a variety of different kinds of nutrients.

I eat a lot of vegetables, whole grains, fish and chicken, and drink filtered water from home that I take around with me, eat very small quantities of red meat, limit alcohol to some red wine, have the periodic coffee . . . and avoid sugar and the artificial stuff I mentioned earlier.

I spent a lot of time looking for these things, trying to find the best stuff available but also stuff that won’t make you bankrupt. What I take costs me per day about the same as a designer cup of fancy-spancy coffee—four bucks.

My whole family eats differently now too. The only thing that kills more kids than cancer is accidents. Just because it happened to me doesn’t mean the rest of my family is off the hook. So they get kids-size portions of what I do . . . a little extra boost of vitamins and minerals. And I don’t feed my kids bad food. If they get French fries, it’s a treat.

I don’t ever want to revisit what I’ve been through ever again. And if that keeps cancer at bay . . . .

All I try to do is give myself extra good nutrition on top of eating healthy, and try not to turn into a freak about it. Just raise my kids, do my job. I firmly believe you control what you can control, and the rest you just have to deal with it.

Every day you roll the dice, and I’m just trying to do things that put the odds in my favor.

In part two of our conversation, GYRIG talks with Dave about what inspires him, how his priorities have changed, and giving back.

Dave is actively involved in the community and says he’s happy to talk with groups or anyone who might be interested in more information about his experience, nutritional program, etc. Contact Dave.

Matt Carrera will run his first marathon to raise awareness of his father's illness

When Matt Carrera made plans to run his first marathon, he knew he would use the opportunity to raise funds for charity.  He never realized that the charity would become a personal mission.  But shortly after beginning his training, Matt got unexpected news.  His father was diagnosed with colorectal cancer.  Now, the 32 year-old runner and chiropractor from Rhode Island is training to run the 2011 Walt Disney World Marathon to raise funds for awareness and screening programs through the Colon Cancer Coalition.

In 2009, Matt and his family visited Disney World, a favorite vacation spot for his family.  At that time, Matt set a goal to run the marathon and knew that, as part of his training,  he would raise funds for a cause. But a knee injury sidelined his plans and he back burned the goal.  In early 2010, after recovery from knee surgery, he registered for the 2011 Walt Disney World Marathon, this time, with more support from his family. Matt registered for the full 26.2 miles, his brother-in-law Ken registered for the Half Marathon, and their wives committed to the Family Fun Run 5K.  Even the kids got excited to participate in the Kids’ Dash.  Training began, plans were made, and goals were set.  Then Matt’s dad was diagnosed with cancer.

The cancer diagnosis

Matt’s father, Jeff, had experienced no symptoms that would have made him concerned about a major illness.  But after experiencing some rib pain, he visited the doctor to investigate the cause.  He thought it would be a routine visit.  A series of tests revealed a mass in his colon, which began a confusing journey.  The determination included a diagnosis of adenocarcinoma of the cecum with neuroendocrine markers.  But according to Matt, “the diagnosis was unclear because there were many different possibilities for where the cancer originated.”  Jeff began his cancer treatment last month and is faring well.  “So far, there have been no major side-effects,” Matt says, “but my dad gets tired.”  Jeff will continue to get one chemotherapy treatment every two weeks for two months, then diagnostic tests will help physicians evaluate how to proceed.

His father’s illness has inspired Matt to train harder and get the word out about the importance of colon cancer screening and awareness programs.  He contacted the Colon Cancer Coalition, a non-profit organization which produces Get Your Rear in Gear 5K races around the country to raise funds and awareness for colon cancer.  He asked if he could use his marathon experience to raise funds and spread the word.  With the Coalition’s help, Matt set up a fundraising page and has begun raising money.

Running expert Matt Forsman

The fitness training plan

To get in shape for the marathon, Matt will begin working with Matt Forsman, USATF/RRCA certified marathon coach and Ask the Trainer fitness expert.  Forsman provides marathon coaching services through his website MarathonMatt.com and specializes in training runners who are raising money for charity. Together they will formulate a plan to help Matt Carrera reach a goal of completing the 26.2 miles in less than fours hours.  The Get Your Rear in Gear blog will follow Matt’s training and fundraising efforts.  Check out Matt’s fundraising page to learn more about his personal mission and to get more information about his father’s diagnosis.  Then continue to visit the Get Your Rear in Gear blog.  We will provide updates about Matt’s dad and follow Matt’s Forsman’s custom training plan to track Matt’s journey to the starting line.

Are you interested in running your own personal race? Contact the Colon Cancer Coalition to find out more about setting up your own fundraising page and setting your own fitness goals.  Visit MarathonMatt.com for information on marathon coaching and services.

Craig PhinneyAnkeny, IA

Our whole conversation lasted approximately four minutes.  Understand this is a Doctor I have seen for approximately seven years for treating an Ulcertic Colitus (Ulcers of the Colon) problem matter and who knew my background.

Following a week of depression and some very positive conversations with my supervisors at work, I met with Dr. Michael Page, MD Colon & Rectal Surgeon in Des Moines. Prior to this meeting the only thing the two of us had in common was, we both lived in Ankeny and both love to smoke and BBQ meat.

Following a very positive discussion with Dr Page, a decision was made. I DECIDED GAME ON DOC!

From there March 24, 2009 was surgery, with a complete colon removal, I was in the hospital for two weeks with complications and then in the recovery at home for 6 weeks with an ostomy bag. The second surgery was in May for reconnect. I was released from the hospital one week following my second surgery. I was home for 24 hours, when I had complications from severe dehydration and was re-admitted to the hospital for another week.

During my stay in the hospital, I had time to think, past all the drugs or maybe because of the drugs.Anyway, this came to a question I challenged myself during the quiet times.  What would I do with an extra hour today, that special 25th hour?  How could I use it to benefit myself or someone else?

I realize cancer does funny things with time.  #1 it surprises you when you don’t expect it and #2 you’re caught between time moving ever so slowly, giving you too much time to think and time moving so fast you can’t live the life you want to live.

Tonight, I challenge you to commit to arrest time and stop this unfairness this disease has on us, our friends and our family.

I challenge you with one simple question: If you could have one more hour today how would your spend it?

If you are battling cancer presently, walking along side a friend or family member fighting the disease or you just want to ease the pain that cancer causes someone else.  THINK!  WHAT CAN I DO WITH ANOTHER HOUR TODAY

Following my first surgery, I was on an ostomy pouch for six weeks, which was a miserable ordeal.

During this transition, I met a wonderful friend with similar health concerns who is and also will be my pouch partner.  She spoke openly with me about my concerns about the disease and what was ahead of me. Her commitment was for me to understand this disease and that yes, it is a lifestyle change, it’s not ending the enjoyment of living.She encouraged me to attend cancer support and ostomy support groups, which I have and one thing I learned, this disease DOES NOT DISCRIMINATE. Six weeks ago I had my second surgery to attach the J-Pouch.

My second commitment, I saw what this disease was doing to me and what it was doing to my wife. I was determined to prove my colon doctor wrong. My wife and I have taken this disease head on and have reached several goals along the way. It has not been an easy journey, but all of this could not have been made possible without your support, kindness, hospital visits, prayers, phone calls, and encouragement of friends/co-workers, our extended family and our renewed faith in God.

One day while in the hospital, I had 26 visitors – to the point my mother-in-law started keeping a guest book.

You have had a few minutes to think what your commitment to this disease will be. It can simply be talking to your state legislators, volunteering for a Cancer Association event, donating money to one of the local area events promoting cancer prevention, or reminding and encouraging a friend or a family member about their annual checkups and prescreening exams, but do something, COMMIT.

I have mentioned a few things I have committed to. Here are a few more suggestions:

• Keep those date nights going, whether with your wife or your family. Remember to keep telling them how much you love them and remind them you realize what this disease has done to them.
• Keep those special social events going as well, you and a friend taking in a baseball game some afternoon. Keep those lunch plans with friends. If they offer you assistance with a project around the house or at work. Allow them to help you.. Remember it’s their commitment!
• Last keep your faith in God. Whether you speak to him in a concrete church or while floating in your kayak on a river. Talk to him.   I am an example,  GOD LISTENS.
• STAY POSITIVE AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE

It has been almost nine months since I heard the most frightening three word statement in my life, “We found Cancer.” Followed by the most encouraging eight word statement I’ve ever heard, “We got it all and no further treatments.”

Since March, 2009, I bounced back sooner than expected after two  surgeries and two separate weeks in the hospital and from the Dr Page’s original plans -earlier than he expected. To say the least, I’ve impressed my Doctor a little. Maybe something one of the Drs previously said made me a little mad and I am determined to prove him wrong.

My wife Shirley and I have taken this disease head on and have reached several goals along the way. It has not been an easy journey, but all of this could not have been made possible without the support, kindness, visits, prayers, phone calls, food delivered and encouragement that has been provided by our family, friends, co-workers and a renewed faith in God.

Last years during the Relay for Life event was a milestone event in my life.  I was asked one week prior to the event to be the guest speaker during the Survivors Fight Back segment. The segment features persons with remarkable results and stories of their struggles with cancer.

During the event and following my presentation, after everything my wife and I had been through, it finally hit.

Craig,  you had cancer.  CRAIG YOU HAD CANCER.   WHOA!!!!!!!  Cancer does
not discriminate.

Well, Wednesday, July 01, 2009, marked another major event this year in my life. At 5:00 in the morning, three and one half weeks earlier than expected, sooner than Dr Page normally allows, I suited up for the first time in four months, 44 lbs lighter with more energy and joyful tears in my eyes, I kissed my wife and thanked her for everything those past four months, she told me to be safe and I went back to a profession I LOVE.

Did I mention what Dr Page’s commitment to me was before surgery?

I’m back on the streets,  protecting the public, making children smile, and Oh yeah, did I mention, BACK CHASING BAD GUYS..

Thanks Dr. Page

I AM A SURVIVOR, in more ways than one…

Amy-Weidner-LaSalaJackson Heights, NY

I’m a high school English Teacher in the New York City Public School System.

There has been a history of cancer in my family. My grandfather had an intestinal cancer- we assume it was colon cancer. He died young, when my father was 18. My father was diagnosed with colon cancer in 2001. His tumor was removed and he is currently cancer free!

I had rectal bleeding for many years. Doctors assumed I had a hemorrhoid. I was told that because I was young and healthy, it was nothing to worry about. After about 5 years of intermittent rectal bleeding, and two doctors telling me it was probably nothing, I decided that *something* was wrong with me, and self-referred to a gastroenterologist in 2005. He preformed a rectal exam as well, agreed that I was probably fine, but seeing how my father had colon cancer it was not unreasonable to get a colonoscopy. That’s when he found my tumor.

I first went to the hospital connected with my gastroenterologist. The course of treatment they recommended was very aggressive. I then got a second opinion at Memorial Salone Kettering Cancer Center. The surgeon I saw there was a specialist in early onset cancers and preservation of the sphincter muscle, both of which were very applicable to my situation, as my tumor was very low and I was only 27. I was looking for the best quality of life as possible afterward, and I felt confident that MSKCC would provide me the best care for my needs.

I had relatively aggressive treatment starting with chemotherapy on a pump- I was connected to chemo 24/7 for about two months. I simultaneously had 30 sessions of radiation. Once a week, I received a new chemo pump and a dose of Herbitux, which was then a clinical trial drug. When I finished my chemotherapy/radiation treatments, I had a two week break, and I had my surgery. I had what is known as a Lower Anterior Resection, where my surgeon removed my rectum and formed a “j-pouch” with some of my intestine to act as a rectum. I was able to avoid having a colostomy.  A few months after my surgery I had another round of chemotherapy, but this time through an oral dosage, which was a relief!

Colon cancer pretty much sucked, but it helped me realize what an amazing community of friends and family I have. My husband (then-fiance) was an amazing support, my friends were always around with cards, phone calls, care packages and trashy magazines. One of my friends drove me to radiation as much as she could. People hung out with me on my “chemo chair” days. My colleagues even donated me sick days! It was an amazing outpouring of love and support.

My doctor put me on a high-fiber, low fat diet. I mostly stick to it, avoiding fatty foods (though sometimes I can’t resist) and taking a fiber supplement in addition to eating whole grains.  When I give into fatty temptation, I have a lot of stomach problems, so I try to avoid it. The only medicine I currently take is Imodium for when my stomach issues strike. I have a normal, active lifestyle. I don’t feel like there’s much of anything I can’t do!

Before I started my chemo and radiation therapies,  I was told that I would become infertile due to my treatments. To have the option of biological children (or heck, even children- who knows if I could adopt with my cancer history) I had to go through fertility treatments, creating embryos with my future (current) husband.

Now, four years later, we’re weighing our options on how to proceed, as the scar tissue in my body will inhibit my ability to carry a child to term. I have no doubt we’re going to complete our family, but loss of my fertility and my inability to carry my children is something that I mourn.

My advice to someone fighting colon cancer is to be as strong as you can, but allow yourself to be sad or scared when you need to be. Let yourself lean on people- your family, your friends- they want to help. They feel helpless- perhaps more helpless than you do. They’re scared too. If they want to help you, let them. You don’t have to protect them, and you don’t have to be strong by doing everything yourself. I know it was weird for me to have to ask for help, but by getting help, I was also giving help.