This Wonderful Journey Called Life After Cancer

As weird as it sounds to say & hear myself think this, I do enjoy this wonderful journey called life after cancer. I have been through so many experiences in my life, but nothing, and I mean nothing compares to this life, these adventures, these moments that make life truly worth living. Life after cancer, the life of surviving the "statistics", of beating the odds and really living is amazing.

Now I do admit, that there are some sad times that come and go. Like the amazing people I have met in my life after cancer journey, who have lost their lives to this disease. Those people, are part of who I am today. My dad for example - Melanoma got him, when I was very young, and though I don't remember everything about him, I do have the pictures & the stories from my mom about him and his wonderful life. I know that even though I lost him at such a young age, that it gave the realization that I can be strong, I can fight this disease and I can make a difference, no matter how small or big. My friend J who was not only a husband, a father, a friend, a survivor, & an adventuresome man who loves to fly and enjoy his life to the fullest, lost his battle over a year ago, but I still have the wonderful memories of him - how he made me laugh for hours while I got my chemotherapy, how much he talked about his family & people he had met since being diagnosed, how he was inspiring, and loved living his life.

Even the people that I never knew, but that touched my heart in other ways, the celebrities that I know have touched all of our hearts - like Farrah Fawcett, our "Charlie's Angel", Bea Arthur, our "Golden Girl" comedian & actress, & even Patrick Swayze, our "Dirty Dancing" favorite. All of these people left a lasting impression on our hearts & in our minds - even though they are no longer here, they will always be with us in our memories!

Whether you are newly diagnosed, currently relapsed, or finished with treatments & trying to move on, you need to remember that you are not alone, there are others like you, others who have been through what you have, and there's always someone to talk to about things, to talk about life after cancer and to share the experience with. :) Remember that this is your journey, it's up to you how you not only approach dealing with it, but how you find a way to work through it and continue to live & love your life after it. We all deal with this differently, and for me, I find the best way to deal with life after cancer is to live my life, spread my positive energy & thoughts to others with the disease & their families & friends, by inspiring others and spreading awareness.

The journey can go either way, it can be a wonderful one, or it can be a dull one - It's really up to you! Which Cancer Journey Will You Choose??

An Unexpected Meeting

The other day, as I was getting gas at my
local Chevron, I walked outside with change in hand and was stopped by a woman. The first words out of her mouth were: "I know you!" I looked at her with a smile and a look of uncertainty, I didn't recognize her, and couldn't for the life of me figure out who she was. She smiled at me and said "I saw you in the newspaper." I knew just what she was talking about - the local newspaper had written an article about me and my 1st fun-raiser for my organization back in September. I was still confused about who this woman was, but appreciative that she recognized me from that article. We started talking and she told me "I just saw your cancer ribbons on the back of your car and noticed the 'Cancer Sucks' one, I knew it was you!" As we chatted, she soon said to me "I'm Shelly." My eyes immediately lit up and I smiled even bigger. "Shelly L?" I asked her, and the big smile on her face was just enough to confirm that. So, there Shelly & I were, talking in front of the gas pumps about life, and how we were doing, what we were up to and how we were recovering.


Now, so you understand this story, I should give you some background about Shelly. I received an email from her which included her phone # several months back, and she had a similar story to mine, and she really wanted to talk to a fellow survivor that understood. So, I called her that night. We ended up talking for over an hour, about our experiences, and I provided her with my advice on things, my thoughts and encouragement. She is a busy woman, married, 3 teenage kids and cancer to top it all off! I told her about the local Wellness Community and the support group that I attended monthly - The Leukemia & Lymphoma Support group that was designed for survivors and their spouses. I encouraged her to attend, when she was ready, that it was a great group and it's amazing to talk to people with similar cancers, treatments and experiences. What transpired from that conversation was, that I didn't hear from her again, or get the chance to meet her - until recently. :) It was amazing to finally put a face to the voice. I gave her the biggest hug, and told her what I was up to.

The Fun-Raiser in September was a huge success and we had raised more than enough money to pay for a portion of starting up my Non-Profit Organization United Cancer Advocacy Action Network. I told her what I was working on and the future of UCAAN. And then she said something that I was overjoyed to hear: "I can't even begin to tell you how much you helped me Rachel. You helped me so much!" My heart melted, and I was filled with excitement - it was almost like a pure rush of adrenaline. It was nice to hear that when I spoke to her, that I provided her with hope, strength & drive to overcome what she was going through. Shelly continued to tell me how she was progressing, we talked about the medications that we both took - one of which she suffered a brain tumor while taking it and was immediately put on another drug.


She still has more treatments ahead of her, including chemotherapy & possibly radiation, but she knows I will always be here for her - through her journey - to lend an ear, and talk it out. Before I left, I grabbed the UCAAN button off of my shirt and handed it to her. "This is for you. You truly are Surviving & Thriving!" It was awesome to finally meet Shelly after all these months, and to see that she is looking absolutely fabulous and despite the bad treatments & adverse reactions, she is doing an amazing job! Above is a picture of Shelly & I. Truly Surviving & Thriving @ it's Best!

What a Wonderful Life - Cancer Free & Fabulous as can be!

What a wonderful life! Surviving Cancer is a wonderful thing, inspiring others battling cancer is even better, and starting a cancer non-profit is beyond tiring and time consuming..... yet..... very rewarding and worth the effort, exhaustion and almost sleepless nights! Lol. I have been working on getting my cancer non-profit organization up and running for a long time now, and actually, have things coming along nicely.

I know what you may be thinking.... "I want to start a cancer non-profit as well! This should be easy. Non-profit, shouldn't be too hard." Ok wait right there! You must be crazy for even thinking that! Starting and running a cancer non-profit is beyond costly and time consuming, but if you have the will, the drive and the passion - then it just may be what you're looking for!

I am looking forward to helping more and more fellow survivors. I am looking forward to doing more public speaking and spreading more and more cancer awareness. I am looking forward to building this organization that will be - bigger than myself!

So, if you want to start a non-profit, any type.... make sure to look into it. Talk to others who have started one like yours, do all the research, do the business plan, raise the money, and get it going! Good Luck in all your future endeavors! If you'd got the will and strength to beat cancer, you can do anything! Sky diving if you're scared of heights, dancing if you're terribly clumsy, singing in your car when everyone is watching, speaking in front of crowds even when you're too scared to..... You get the point! Just do it!

"Live Your Passion!!"

Part of finding your passion, is finding the thing or things in life that make you happiest and trying to put them together, and doing the thing that makes you the happiest.

In life, we all have our goals, our passions - things in life that we want more than anything. For me, it all changed when I was diagnosed with Cancer 3 years ago. Things that used to seem so important to me - ended up being nothing that I could ever consider living my life for. I used to want to be a teacher, until they took the fun and art out of the schools, I used to want to own and manage a women's fitness club - but that fizzled out. And now? The thing that drives me the most, that gets me out of bed to work on it another day..... is my passion and drive to help others with cancer.

Recently I was shopping, and the lady next to me noticed my new button: "United Cancer Advocacy Action Network" reads across the top in black lettering, followed by a fabulous quote "We are surviving & thriving after cancer" and finally a website "UCAAN.ORG." The lady asked me "What is that?" At that instant, my face lit up and I told her all about my cause, as we talked, 3 other women in the store turned around and all said "I had cancer too." My bizzare sounding response to them was this "What's your cancer of choice?" The looks on their faces was priceless and the responses even better: "Well I didn't choose my cancer." replied one woman. I looked at her and smiled "Neither did I, but it's all about how you look at it. You are a survivor and doing great! For me, I have to joke around a little about the cancer, for me it works and usually gets people to laugh." I saw their once priceless looks on their faces turn into smiles. They all turned to me and agreed - attitude was everything & being positive helped them through their tough times.

So, when I say "Live your passion!" I mean it, and don't let anyone or anything stop you from accomplishing your goals - not even cancer. As weird as it may sound, cancer has made me... who I am today. It's made me that much stronger, and helped me realize that life isn't all about me. It's about the wonderful people we surround ourselves with, the people whose lives we touch - whether they are fellow survivors or not, the people we inspire & give hope, the people that with one word - their heart melts.... These are the people that I follow my passion of life for!

"Live it up! Live your passion!"

And he asked: Why are you single?

I frequent a local restaurant that my friend owns and tonight I went by to visit her and her grumpy, obnoxious friend who I have come to know. In all reality, he is a real hoot and the things that come out of his mouth sometimes tend to be sarcastic or can be taken as rude. But he is a character, that fella and I laugh when I am around him.

Now back to my story, as I spoke to "Andy" (the obnoxious one), he asked me "Why don't you have a boyfriend? Why are you single?" I laughed, and smiled at him and responded "I am too busy for that." He looked at me and responded, "So what! You can stiill have a sex life." I just stared at him, I think my mouth dropped at that moment. I laughed and responded; "A sex life? What's that? No thanks." He continued to ask me about it and why I didn't want a hook up buddy. I couldn't stop laughing. And then he asked me "How are you so busy?" I then told him about all the projects I was working on - The first book; the sequel; making, selling and promoting my jewelry; working on my cancer non-profit; and my cancer for profit. He looked dumbfounded really, and continued to tell me that I needed a sex life. Lol. As I stood there and told my friend about Andy's craziness, she giggled when he pointed to a drunk mam at the end of the bar and told me that he liked me, he wanted to go out with me. It was funny really, there Andy was teasing me away, getting a kick out of my responses. I just continued to laugh at what he was saying. And i think the last thing I said to him was this - "I don't need a man to be happy. I don't mind being single, and I have more important things to do right now."

The truth is that when I was younger, before cancer I didn't care who I dated, I just dated people. I was always in a rush to be with someone, as if I had to have a man to survive. But after cancer, I feel differently about things. When I am looking eventually, I want a man who is driven, passionate and intelligent. There are more qualities that I look for, definitely. So, now I ask you, why are you single? If you are of course single, you still can be fabulous!

Remembering The Good Ol' Days - Way Before Cancer!

So, today, I started to remember things, some great memories I had and treasured from my time way before cancer. Remembering the wonderful times in our lives, are great in aiding us through the toughest times. I mention often that life is too short and that we need to embrace and enjoy the simple things in life, the things that make us truly happy. I'm going to tell you about some of my favorite, most precious memories that I have of growing up, and I will start at the beginning......

* As a young child, I was very creative and artistic, and could entertain myself for hours. Although I don't recall this, my mom reminisces about it often. When I was little - maybe 2 years old or so, I would wake up in the morning and play with my toys for an hour or more, instead of waking up my mom. During bath time, I would play with my bath toys - and have them talking to one another. Cute! I remember living in New York City (good ol' Manhattan) with my mom & dad and the great memories I had while living in these huge apartments called "Waterside Plaza". Waterside Plaza was amazing, it was a huge brown building, and maybe half way up, there was an outdoor playground, an elevated pool and a little liquor store of sorts on a large balcony area. I remember having a great time in that playground and can remember it as if it were yesterday. I recall the great times I had with a best friend, whose mother used to cook us up a large pot of spaghetti, chicken and mix in some ketchup. As bizarre of a combination that it sounds like, I loved it, and still like a little pasta, chicken and ketchup every so often. Mom tells me about the days that I would make creatures out of clay (like I do now) - like a little bunny rabbit, holding a basket with eggs in it. Wow! Impressive for a little girl huh? She says the detail was amazing!

* I remember living in Elmhurst, New York, which was right near Flushing. I think we lived on 80th Street and Grand Avenue? I went to an elementary school that was within walking distance of my home - PS 102 Queens. I lived on the third floor of an apartment building, with some enormous gas tank behind our home. I had some great friends that I hung out with often, Lilly & Lisa and I were almost inseparable and you could always find us playing at the end of the street by this old cherry tree. We'd play for hours, climbing on the cherry tree, eating cherries and pretending we were exploring. I remember walking with my friends down the street to meet with my other friend Patricia, and all of us girls enjoying a nice big slice of New York pizza at a local place. Sleepovers at Lisa's house were the best. I recall my fun days with Lisa, Lilly and Silvia, when we went to the movies together, rode the bus and enjoyed burgers at White Castle. Silvia, was a friend that I met at school, she was from Argentina, her dad was a dentist, and she was so much fun to be with. I remember the times that my stepdad and I would go more into the city part of our town, which was really only a few blocks away from my house and we would get icees. The BEST ever icee in the world was chocolate chip. I always looked forward to those days out. One of my best memories of Patricia, was when my family, Patricia and I went out of town - I believe to the Poconos to celebrate New Years. My step dad was a comedian at the time and had a comedy gig at the hotel that we were staying at. Patricia and I stayed up so late that night, until my parents came into our room and invited us to the party they were having in the hotel restaurant. Patricia and I danced and ate, till our tummies were beyond full. What a great night!!

* For years, I used to go in the car and my parents would say: "Take a nap." I would reply with "I'm not tired! I'm not tired!" and seconds later, I would pass out fast asleep. But one time was different, I saw the traffic and decided to take a nap, but before I did I said to my family - "It's going to be a long trip for you and a very short trip for me."

* My mom used to love taking me to my Uncle Kenny's in New Jersey by bus, and I guess one day I was so mad at her, only five years old, I packed my bag and announced "I'm leaving for Uncle Kenny's!" at the front door.

* I remember the road trips that my family and I took, while my step dad was doing his comedy gigs. One of my most memorable trips was..... when we went to this amazing hotel, that had an indoor pool and playground that I could see from my room (which I was lucky enough to have my own room at the time). There was a mall attached to the hotel, and as you entered the hotel, there was a huge waterfall in the center of the lobby, that went into a pool. It was one of the most exotic hotels that I ever recall going to. I think it was a Holiday Inn in Visalia. There were plenty of comedy shows that my step dad did across the country, and we drove to all of them. I recall one where a gentleman in the back of the room was laughing so hard, that he fell out of his bar seat. The creative and artistic young girl that I was, I drew a picture for the hotel that showed the man falling out of his chair. I believe the comedy club was called Bananas, and on the picture I wrote - At Bananas, you'll laugh till you drop! Or something to that extent - I was ten at the time.

* I remember my tap dancing lessons, that my grandma used to take me to, and our trips to Carvel ice cream afterwards. I loved the times I visited my grandma in Long Island and explored her house, and played in the backyard - climbing on the trees, running around and hanging with her really nice neighbor Mac and his wife. These were some of the best memories as I was growing up, and was under 10 years old. :)

* I remember when I first moved out to Ventura County, new area, new school, new friends. I was used to moving, because we had moved a lot – from New York to California and back and forth. My new middle school was Los Cerritos and was known as the school with no windows. Kids in the neighborhood referred to it as a prison, because there was only one window on the front of the building in the art room. As I walked into the school office, ready for my mom to register me, I met my very first friend – Shoshana. She was sweet and helpful and offered to show me where my class was. She had just come back to school after a scoliosis surgery. Shoshana and I had some amazing times at that school. I met some more kids – JR, Denise & Scott and we all became friends. One of my favorite memories with my friends was when we planned a haunted house inside the school for the Halloween carnival we were having. We planned and set up an entire haunted tour of the school, which was awesome!

* The apartment that I lived in when I first moved to Ventura County, was The Knolls. I have some wonderful memories of that place. Babysitting, helping with the events the apartment community had for the kids, searching for treasures in trash cans with Danny, selling handmade bouquets of flowers and wreaths, and holding kid Olympic events outside my apartment. I recall the first day that I saw my paperboy. He was soooo cute, and rollerbladed all over the complex. His name was John, and he was my first real big crush. I had some great times with John over the years, and we were friends all through high school and even talk a little now.

* I’ve had a lot of jobs in different fields, but I can honestly say that the one that brought me the most happiness was when I worked my first real office job at a local limousine company. I remember waking up every morning looking forward to seeing my fellow staff, my drivers and those gorgeous long stretches. It really was a highlight working there, and brought me so much joy and education. That wasn’t the only job that I loved. The next job that followed that one, was working at Curves – the women’s gym. I met and inspired many women, and still run into them now – over 5 years later. I ended up managing 3 Curves over the years and loved every minute of it.

Connected to Everything

The other night, I went to the movies and saw "My sister's keeper", a story about a young girl with Cancer, and her sister who was born in hopes that she is a match to her older sister, and can save her. It's a touching, heart warming and sad story, and for many of us it had us leaving the theater at the end of it in tears.

I was crying for certain parts of the film, like when the young girl meets a friend, a guy who reminded me so much of my friend Patrick that lost his battle against cancer in September of 2007. The young girl battling cancer, reminded me so much of myself and what I went through. The bone marrow biopsies in the film made me cringe, the moment she mentioned that she had APL (Acute Promylocitic Leukemia), which is a subtype of AML (Acute Myeloid Leukemia). There I was in the theater, feeling ultimately connected to this young girl, who was fighting for her life, the same way I did when I was diagnosed with final stage Leukemia. (Just a note: There are 7 sub-types of Acute Myeloid Leukemia. I sufferred from Acute Promylocitic Leukemia. M3 has the highest peri-induction mortality rate. More people die during the first few doses of chemo than in any of the other sub-types! And did you know that 1/3 of people diagnosed with Leukemia, don't have symptoms! Wow, just like me!) As I continued to watch the movie and the young girls' trials and tribulations and decreased immune system, I saw how sick she was, and knew that when I was at the hardest part of my battle, I looked like her. I remember being in the hospital and hearing people tell me how sick I looked, how pale and yellow my face was, and how as my health improved, I was regaining color back in my face.

There was so much signifigance in this movie, to what I experienced in my battle against cancer, and it touched me in so many ways - mentally, emotionally and physically. As I continue surviving and thriving in my life after cancer, I have lots of time to look at the past 2 and a half years. Re-evaluating the way my life once was and the what my life has become all because of this intervantion from God. I feel connected more than ever to God, and to my great friends & family, and to my newfound love of life.

Letters of Recomendation

The Leukemia Lymphoma Society Team in Training (TNT):

To whom it may concern:

Rachel Shur became an honored teammate with The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Team in Training (TNT) program in 2008. Honored teammates are blood cancer survivors who volunteer their time to advocate for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) and provide encouragement for participants who are training for a marathon, half marathon while raising money for LLS. Rachel speaks at information meetings about the program and conveys to potential new participants the difference that the money raised by TNT has made. Rachel’s story tells the seriousness of this disease and the importance of raising money to cure it, yet somehow she is also able to put on a big smile and make people laugh. She shows them that even though she has been through some really tough times fighting cancer, she is determined to live life to the fullest and have a good time.

Rachel also comes out to TNT practices at 6:30AM on Saturday mornings to cheer on participants while they are training. In her words she is “that crazy one out there screaming and yelling and cheering them on”. Even when they have just finished running 18 miles, Rachel can bring a smile to their faces and reminds them of the reason they are training. Rachel also attends TNT social events and allows participants to get to know her. This allows them to get a glimpse of what it is really like to be a cancer survivor and gives them the chance to ask any questions that they might have about blood cancer and its treatment.

Rachel is a tremendous advocate and inspiring speaker for the cause and is willing to do anything within her means to help improve the lives of patients and their families and find a cure. I can always count on Rachel to step up and volunteer for anything that is needed. She loves to speak about her journey and spread the word about the need for others to join the mission to find a cure for blood cancer. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.

Sincerely,

Elise McConeghy

Campaign Manager

Ventura County, Team In Training

Greater Los Angeles Chapter

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society

(T )805-485-1781

(E) elise.mcconeghy@lls.org

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Ventura Community College:

Dear Rachel,

Thank you so much for coming and speaking to my health classes at Ventura College. Not only was your story inspiring and enlightening, but your positive outlook on life is a lesson in itself. It was especially informative to bring the books filled with information and pictures detailing your experience. Those who have never experienced cancer themselves, or through a loved one, saw vivid pictures and your real life story. You are wonderful, bright, and positive despite the hard times you went through during your cancer battle. I hope that that you can continue speaking about your cancer experience and spreading awareness throughout the community.

Thank you again for speaking, and I look forward to hearing you again!

Mary McDonough-Giles

Professor of Health and Physical Education

Ventura College

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Children's Cause Cancer Advocacy:

Ms. Rachel Shur:

Thank you for your participation as a speaker in this year's Rise To Action (RTA) conference for young adult cancer survivors held in Los Angeles, California. The Children's Cause for Cancer Advocacy is grateful to you for your selfless contribution of time and energy towards our February 7, 2009 conference held at USC's Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center.

Your role on the survivor panel was an invaluable contribution to the overall success of the conference. The courage you demonstrated by sharing your survivorship story, as well as your kindhearted interactions with younger survivors in attendance, helped to make the day a memorable and meaningful experience for everyone.

RTA-LA was attended by over one hundred young adult cancer survivors in their teens, twenties, and thirties and their family members. RTA aims to help survivors learn how to manage their follow-up care and deal with issues unique to them, relying heavily upon role model survivors like you to lead by example. RTA-LA featured panels and breakout sessions on topics ranging from late effects and fertility concerns to health insurance and employment issues.

Your active participation and leadership in programs such as Rise To Action are important because you inspire and empower other survivors to take action to protect the health of their bodies and minds. Research indicates that as many as two-thirds of childhood cancer survivors are likely to experience at least one late effect - or health complication - from having had cancer or treatment. As a speaker at RTA-LA, you have helped to equip survivors with the necessary tools to deal with some of those issues and know where to find help.

On behalf of the Children's Cause, we thank you and we highly recommend your leadership skills to other conferences and organizations that may have the good fortune of benefiting from them.

Best Wishes,

Jess Reamy

Program Associate

Children’s Cause for Cancer Advocacy

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Ombudsman of Los Angeles - Pink Day

November 5, 2008

Ms. Rachel Shur

Leukemia Survivor Advocate

Dear Ms. Shur:

Your participation as a panelist in our first Survivors’ Panel Forum ensured the success of our 2008 “PINK” Day Breast Health and Cancer Awareness Wellness Program Activity. Thank you for your time, enthusiasm, and your commitment to motivating others challenged with surviving cancer. Your insights as a leukemia survivor was well received and commented on by those who attended the Q&A session.

Over 100 County employees and others attended this one-day event. The materials you donated provided up-to-date information on leukemia and the valuable outreach programs and resources available. Our goal for this year was to include information about different types of cancer to broaden and challenge participants learning experience; your presentation about twice surviving leukemia helped us achieve that goal.

Ms. Shur, we are sincerely grateful for your accepting our invitation to speak on such a short notice. We look forward to having you join us at next year’s Breast Health and Cancer Awareness Wellness Program Activity. The program is always held on the last Thursday of October.

Sincerely,

Mary L. Calhoun, Wellness Program Activity Coordinator/Executive Assistant to OMBUDSMAN JOHN S. FERNANDES

510 South Vermont Avenue, Suite 215 Los Angeles, CA 90020-1912 (213) 738-2003 FAX: (213) 637-8662 1-800-801-0030 (Complaints) E-Mail: ombudla@ombuds.lacounty.gov

Pay It Forward

Every month or so, my mom & I go out to splurge on our favorite thing to do together – we get a pedicure! As we sat waiting for our freshly painted toes to dry, I did my usual thing – made some jewelry, and my mom next to me was playing a brain game on her cell phone. The lady sitting in front of us seemed sad, I could see it in her eyes, and all I wanted to do was hug her and let her know that whatever she was going through was just a stepping stone. She ended up talking to me – noticing my jewelry that I was working on. She asked me how long I had working with jewelry and I told her – about fifteen years. As I talked to the nice woman, I told her a little more about me, about having cancer and experiencing life. She in turn looked at me and told me her sad story, a tragedy had hit her when her sister was killed recently, and she was still grieving. I was so saddened to hear her story, about her immense loss and about her new found kids (her sister’s children) that she was caring for. In an instant her life had changed drastically, she went from being retired to working again to support her new family. I understood a part of what she was experiencing – the loss of a family member. We continued talking and she told me about her other sister who was battling brain cancer. Her sister was having a hard time going through the radiation and I understood, because I too had been there with the heavy radiation treatments. I offered my ear, and my shoulder to the woman, I gave her hope and inspiration. The tools and gifts that I know God has supplied me with to help those in need. As we talked, I made a little key-chain – a wire woman with boobs and stilettos and a hope ribbon – one of my signature creations and handed it to my new friend. I told her that anytime she needed someone to talk to, she could call me, she could talk to me about anything – cancer, etc and I would be there to help in any way that I could.

I spoke to a friend of my aunts recently, a man who was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin’s b-cell lymphoma, and was going through the same things I was experiencing when I was first diagnosed with cancer. He really needed to talk to someone who had been there, gone through the treatments, I understood the side effects – chemo brain mainly and the life changes. I provided him with the tools he needed, the links to numerous support groups online, support groups in his city, all online forums and networking sites, where he could meet others who were going through or had gone through the same thing as he was. Even though I had gone through a different type of cancer, and some very different treatments, I helped him and provided him with the tools and information that he needed to get through it. I know that he appreciated it, and ended up passing on the information I had given him to his nephew in California who had cancer as well. I did send him some booklets in the mail that I felt would help him with his battle against cancer, and help him understand more of the treatments he was going through.

This is my way of paying it forward, by helping people any way I can and not expecting anything in return. Just helping someone is its own reward. I know that I not only brought some hope to that woman, but I brought her inspiration and the realization that she’s not alone. Even a stranger can bring a new thought or provide you with the inspiration that you may need to get by. My mom was really impatient as we waited in the salon, and just wanted to be able to go, but she was stuck because I had driven us there. After we left the salon, I turned to mom and said. We were there longer than expected, but there was a reason. We were meant to meet that woman, to share stories and to give her the inspiration that she needed, the hope she wanted and the strength and ability to overcome her obstacles. I looked at mom and said “It’s a God thing. God wanted us to cross paths.” It was a God thing, if we had left minutes earlier, we never would have met that woman, and we never would have been able to help her. The important things to keep in mind are: 1) Our lives can change, even drastically in a moment and we need to realize that we have a choice – to embrace the change and help & inspire others, or just move on with life as we knew it. And 2) If you are given a second chance at life, after a diagnosis, whether it be cancer, becoming a quadriplegic or anything else that alters your life, you MUST pay it forward. Help someone in anyway you can. Improve your life as you once knew it and help others, cook dinner for a homeless person, provide someone in need with information they need, give a neighboring kid a summertime job to help him/her pay for college, etc. Whatever you decide to do to pay it forward, don’t think about what you can get out of it. Happiness and gratefulness is enough.

I pay it forward in many ways, more ways than spreading hope and inspiration to those I meet. I try to bring a smile to at least one person’s face a day, somehow, someway. Even the little things we do can impact peoples' lives - like the homeless man I see near my house, I always bring Tom a little something to eat when I can, because I know he appreciates that so much. :) I dance in my car and sing out loud with my friends staring at me and laughing in my car, I make various presents for the wonderful people at the City of Hope, I speak for events and at local schools to get the word out there- That there is always hope, there is always a way to overcome obstacles and the people we loose in our lives leave a footprint on our hearts and in our minds. We always have their memories, and most of them leave an impact – no matter how big or small in our lives. This is what makes these people truly memorable, and this is what makes life worth living!

Life is too short - Live it up!

With the recent passing of the king of pop Michael Jackson, yesterday and sex symbol & actress Farrah Fawcett, as well as Ed McMahon most of us are coming to realize that life truly is too short. MJ was only 51 and died from a hear attack, Farrah was 41 and battled cancer, Ed passed on in his sleep due to numerous health problems. These recent deaths have affected our country in a huge way, the king of pop was an American Icon, Farrah was the first Charlie's Angel, Ed is well known for his work with Johnny Carson. It's not just the recent deaths than we notice, it's also the alarming number of people who are diagnosed with cancer, people we know, children we meet, and stars we love; like Christina Applegate, Patrick Swayze, Sheryl Crow, Fran Drescher, Kylie Minogue, Leona Lewis, and Kathy Bates to name a few. Cancer doesn't discriminate, it doesn't matter how old or young you are, whether you are famous or poor, cancer can strike at any time. During times like these, we try to stay positive, even when we find out that these beloved stars like Farrah, Ed & Michael have passed on. We must keep in mind, that we only have this one life, these moments are precious and sacred. Life is too short, and we need to live it up!

I send love to the families of these fallen well known favorites. I want everyone to take a momnet to ask themselves: " Am I living my life to the fullest? Am I doing the things I love to do? Am I inspiring people anyway I can?" I was given a second chance at life, perhaps a 3rd chance if you consider my stem cell transplant as a rebirth - like many do. I am living my life to the fullest, working on the things I love most, surrounding myself with the people who bring me positivity, serenity and laughter, and inspiring others along the way. I know this is a lot to think about, our present, the future and how our lives can change in a moment, and we can't control it, we can only find a way to work with it, and help others along the way and just live. My favorite saying is "Fight 2 Live". Because after cancer rocked my world, it changed my life and impacted my life in such a way that I finally saw, what was really important, what I really needed to survive and strive. I surrounded myself with people who brought joy in my life and got rid of the negative energy that was devouring me.

Like Nike says "Just Do It". No excuses, nothing is holding you back but yourself. LIVE!!!

The Importance of Support Groups 4 Cancer

There I was sitting in a room full of fellow survivors, there was one big difference between them and me...... I was the youngest, and they had at least 21 or more years on me. This is the monthly group that I not only look forward to attending, but that I have been accustomed to attending. Even though most of them were diagnosed with cancer, at a later stage of their lives, they were given the chance to really live their lives. Most of the members of my cancer support group are older, married and with children and grand children. They've lived their lives, they've ran businesses and most of them are retired and enjoying live even more. For some of them, they are still working to feel like they have some amount of normalcy in their lives.

So, last night I went to my monthly group and listened as a newcomer spoke to us about the problem he was having. The problem was something that many of us in the room could understand and fully comprehend. He was a young 50 year old, working a job he loved, and had been involved with for well over 20 years, and he was feeling fatigue on a big level. As I listened to what he said, a lot of things that hes was feeling really hit home for me. I listened to the other adults in the room, share their insight and advice on what this man should be doing, or what could help him with this difficult transition. When I was able to talk, I said to him "Everyone in this room, knows my story and what I have been through. I have been where you are in your life too. When I was diagnosed, I returned to work quickly because I LOVED my job, even against my doctor's orders, I worked from home until I was able to work at the office again. After every treatment and even after my stem cell transplant, I quickly rushed back to work. But when my company went out of business in December of 2008, I was crushed and tried to replace the job i loved with other jobs. They didn't even come close. Eventually, I got to a point of my life where I noticed changes - brain changes. I was checked out by my doctor and told that I have scaring on my brain as a result of my chemotherapy & radiation treatments, and when I was stressed out, I would experience memory lapses, small blackouts and forgetfulness. As much as I wanted to resume to my life - the normalcy, I had to come to terms with myself that it wouldn't. So when my doctor suggested that I take a leave from working, I did. I can't tell you how much it's helped me. I haven't worked in about 4 months now, but it's made me see that I need to focus on the things that are important to me, the things I enjoy doing - like making jewelry! Now I am at a very different place in my life, than anyone else in this group. You all have lived full lives, gotten married, worked a lifetime, had children, and grand children. I am only 29 years old, unable to have kids, experiencing fatigue spells that make me sleep all day some days, not even close to be married, and trying to get my life to something that I can call somewhat normal. Perhaps, you need to take a break from work, like I did. Take time off, maybe try something part time, enjoy life and do things that make you happy, like I do. I get out there and spread the word about my experience with cancer and spread hope and inspiration. I know that we all want to resume our lives where we left off, before we had cancer - we all want to be normal, but after cancer, our lives have changed and we will never have that normalcy again. We need to learn how to cope with the change and find the things we enjoy most in life and do them! We all experience fatigue and I wish that my friends would understand that I don't have the energy that I used to and I may never again. That's why I speak, to spread the word."

The truth is, that after a cancer diagnosis and treatments, we realize what is really important in our lives, and we utilize this experience to make us better people. We all suffer from the side effects - the assorted size effects - many suffer from chronic fatigue, some suffer weight gain or weight loss, brain scaring, memory loss and more. The importance of support groups for cancer survivors and simple - it brings us a place to share a common understanding, a common experience, and to realize that we are not alone. We can't expect our friends to fully understand what we are going through and what we are experiencing, but we can share it with them, and hope that they understand in some way where we are coming from. Fellow survivors amazing people to have in our lives. As I say on my myspace profile, Thank You Cancer. As dysfunctional as that may sound, I am thankful for the experience, the life change and the wonderful people I have met along the way, in addition to helping me realize who my true friends are. The truth is I wouldn't have it any other way! This is my life, I have one life to live and gosh darn it, I am going to make it a good one!! *CELEBRATE LIFE!!*

Remembering Dad

Last night was just one of those nights. I stay positive about 95% of the time, but after watching an episode of House MD, I found myself in tears. Usually, when I see a show where they talk about people with cancer, I sympathize and understand what it's like to go through those hard times, but I don't become overly emotional. But last night, when I watched the show and saw a father being diagnosed with a rare form of cancer. Even though my dad didn't have a rare form, he still had cancer.

I'm sad that I never got the chance to really get to know my father and I think about it a lot. Recently, mom and I went through some old things of his that I have, and I had to stay strong and keep myself from crying. And I know it's good to let it out, but for that moment, I wanted to and needed to keep my composure. I wish I had the chance to get to know him, to be able to talk to him and hear his voice. But I think that if I had, I wouldn't be the strong Cancer A$$ Kicker that I am now. I wouldn't be the same person. My mom tells me stories about him, my aunt and family members tell me how loving and intelligent he was and how I am so much like him. I have pictures of him, pictures of random things - street signs, flowers, fruit, etc. And I know I have so much of him in who I am. I will continue to think of my father - Bar K. Shur, continue to do the things I am passionate about (just as he did), continue to inspire and help others, continue to follow my dreams and continue to remember that he was a remarkable man and is in Heaven with the Angels. :)

In Memory of my father, You are amazing, you are loved, you are missed, you are part of me, you are beyond remarkable!!!

Cancer Survivors Day - Celebrate Life!

This past weekend, I celebrated Cancer Survivors Day with friends and family. The truth is, that we only have this one life to live, and you need to spend your time living, laughing and loving. We all know that you are a survivor of cancer from the moment you are diagnosed. If you happen to relapse, your survivor counter doesn't start over again, when you have a stem cell transplant or bone marrow transplant you are considered close enough to being cured. When you reach your 5 year remission date, you are told the cancer likely won't come back. These are point of our cancer moments, that we look forward to - even more so - to find a cure for cancer.

For this Cancer Survivors Day, I celebrated life to the fullest. I had an interview on Q 104.7 FM with Nancy Rodriguez (which was pre-recorded on Thursday and aired on Sunday) with a fellow young survivor friend of mine - Collin. I spent my Saturday at an event at the Wellness Community in Westlake Village and celebrated with other survivors, ate great BBQ, listened to music, got some presents and hung out with my friend Jason. It's even more exciting to meet survivors who have been cancer free for 25, 35, and 40 years! I spent the weekend sleeping over at my friend Ryan's house and enjoyed good times with my friends: Ryan, Adam & Richelle until monday morning, when I left early in the morning and attended a wonderful event at the City of Hope with my friend Ranee - it was their Cancer Survivors Day Celebration of Life.

Whatever you did this past weekend in celebration of Cancer Survivors Day, keep in mind always that it's all about keeping positive, staying strong and living your life to the fullest. For me, God gave me another chance to live, another chance to help me realize what I was truly meant to do with my life. I live every day not only as a survivor, but as an advocate for those who have battled and continue to battle this disease. On a sign at the City of Hope, there is a quote, I recite to people often - "There is always Hope." This is true in all of our lives. We are giving this one life to live, this one chance to do something amazing. And no matter what sentence you are given by a doctor, you must remember that there is always Hope and positivity really works. I have met people who were given 2 years to live, and have surpassed their doctor's life expectancy - even up to 25 years and more! The truth is, it's up to God.

So for Cancer Survivors Day, I thank those that have helped me through these hard times - My mom - Jean , my "pop-aratzzi" Evan, my best friend Julie, my best friend Brianne, Dr. Pablo Parker, Lynn Bonner, Kelly P (share my birthday would ya?), Sallie, Soraya, Pat, Raz, Samantha, Kari, Art (David Copa-feel), Fernando, David, Monique, Ann C, Maila, Wendy, Ron, Jeanne, Corie, Gloria, Najat, Angie W, Stella, Cassie, Kathryn, Charisse, Dr. Mike Chen, all my pals down in radiation, all my phlebotomists, Jeanine, Mary, Honey, Jobe, Gilbert, Randy, Valerie, Bonnie, Ginny, Bella, Celia, all the gals in ETC and Infusion, Danny D, Yvonne, Elvira, Annie, Sandra and the list does go on. So many people at the City of Hope have helped me, and if I wasn't suffering from such chemo brain I would list you all. but you all know that I love you, now and forever!

Hope you all had an amazing Cancer Survivors Day - continue to live each day to the fullest, do something amazing, inspire and live, laugh love like you've never done before. xoxox Rachel

National Cancer Survivors' Day is TODAY!

Today is the day to Celebrate. A day to celebrate life and being a survivor. An estimated 11 million people all across the world are cancer survivors and are given this great day to celebrate, their lives, the lives of those we have lost to cancer, the lives of those close to us, whose battles are harder than others, and those who are newly diagnosed.

You are a survivor from the moment you are diagnosed. The moment the doctor says those fearful words to you and brings a feeling of uncertainty and confusion. You are a survivor from the initial date of diagnosis, if you've gone through a relapse, like I did, you are still surviving, a stem cell transplant - still kicking butt. It's all about what you do after your diagnosis, if it changes your life in a significant way, which I am sure for lots of us it has.

For those of you that know my story, know that i was diagnosed with final stage Luekemia and given a very slim chance of survival, the doctors at VCMC didn't expect me to make it to the City of Hope - but yes I did - will bells on! Coming out of the ambulance with the EMTs laughing and having a blast. Remember that Attitude is Everything! No matter what the doctors say about your chance of survival, you need to embrace life and live it the best you can! I have met a lot of survivors in my time, and have seen some of them embrace the experience and utilize it to help other fighting cancer, while some of us choose to move on with our lives as if nothing happened. that;s fine, it's you choice. But this life, this experience, brings us the realization that the simple things in life are amazing, that the colors of the leaves in fall are amazing and vibrant, that hanging out with grandkids or nephews for a few hours a week really are worthwhile, that finding your true passion in life and persuing it really is more remarkable and rewarding than any $120,000/year job that doesn't even make us happy.

I recently did a radio interview with Nancy Rodriguez of Q 104.7FM radio in Ventura County, Ca in celebration of National Cancer Survivors' day and we talked a little about my story and what I do to spread the world about cancer awareness. I have done so much in such a short time to spread awareness and inspire those battling the disease, or those still trying to decide what to do with their lives. We only have one life to live, so we might as well enjoy it, spread the love, help those when we can, volunteer to the fullest and embrace - those who have been there for us, stayed by our sides, helped us through our trials and tribulations, told us they love us, and made a lasting impact on our lives.

For this Cancer Survivors Day, I want to thank my Mom for being there for me through even the hardest of times and always lending me a hand, an ear, a kiss and a hug when I needed it. To my "pop-aratzzi" Evan for all of his support, love, and great times watching movies, and rubbing my feet at the hospital. My vest friend Julie for sleeping at the hospital with me, even when I was unconcious, coming to my side when I had a bad experience with a nurse and being there indefinately to help me through it all. My aunt Jaymie and grammie Lucille who always brought a smile to my face with their cute cards and phone calls. My Aunt Rita & Uncle Avi in florida, who sent their prayers and wonderful cards to me, with great inspirational words. My AMAZING DOCTOR - Pablo Parker, WONDERFUL NURSE PRACTITIONER - Lynn Bonner for saving my life and never giving up HOPE. Thank you to all of my family and friends for supporting me through it all and being there when I needed help. The amazing staff at the City of Hope and forgive me if I don't mention you all - Irene, Angie, Kelly P, Bonnie, Ginny, Jeannene, Anne C, Valerie, Stella, Cassie, Marie, Janine, Gloria, Najat, Corie, Sallie, Annie W, Stacey, Maria, Susan, Holly, Sandra, Ron, Monique, Maila, Wendy,and other wonderful and amazing people!

All for the love of dancing!

There I was, in the middle of the nail salon doing my infamous "butt dance" in front of the patrons of the salon - with the mani/pedicurists in the background cheering me on.

It was classic, and so me. The typical thing that you could find me - the new cancer ass kicking girl doing. It all started "The butt dance" after I had my stem cell transplant last April, and realized that I could do this unique dance. I could of kept it as a secret, kept to myself in my abyss of wild and wacky talents, but I didn't I showed it - to almost everyone I knew. The first witness to this dance, was my mom, followed by friends I had at the City of Hope - nurses, doctors, phlebotomists, social workers, patients. Anyone who hear about it, wanted to see it, just like my little wire creations around the hospital.

So, today my mom and I went to get our toe nails done, which was a favorite past time of ours. There I was sitting in my spa chair enjoying a chair massage, getting my toes done. My mom sat next to me completely relaxed and I was enjoying myself while I made a necklace. The mani/pedicurists in the salon watched me do my intricate jewelry work. Now I don't know how the conversation came up, but it did. And I ended up telling the ladies that I could dance - one dance in particular. They were shocked to hear that I had a "butt dance" that no one I had met was able to do. The ladies then told me "After you're done with your pedicure, we will go in a room and you can show us the dance!" I can't even begin to tell you how excited these women were, about seeing my dance. My mom sat next to me laughing and telling the group how I did this everywhere, and how great of a dance it was.

So, my mom leaves, I am sitting there waiting for my nails to dry and a few of the girls lead me into a seperate room, and turn up the music. And there I was..... surrounded by these mani/pedicurists doing my "Butt dance" and needless to say, they were hystericall! What followed that was unexpected, the girls turned up the music and one of the pedicurists and I were dancing around the shop. For over 30 minutes, we danced all around, with the partons hysterically laughing and enjoying the show. I can't even describe how much fun it was and how exhillirating it felt to just let loose and boogie. I showed the ladies the "butt dance" and they all replied "How do you do that? I can't do that!" I just laughed and continued to dance with my new found friends. We were all having a great time, which is always a lot of fun and fabulous in my book!

I know that once others read this, they will ask me to show them the dance, and I will proudly do it! :)

Picking Up Where I Left Off

I go through these spells, where sometimes I just don't feel like writing. Perhaps it's because I try to keep myself so occupied, that at times I loose sight of what I was doing or what I needed to get done. It's like I zone out into my own world and poof! There I go, lost in the moment and onto something new. With little or no realization that I had something else left to do. Poof! There I go again.

So, I had my MRI on February 20th, a super early morning appointment and a much needed test to see what was going on with my memory. I saw my doctor a week later, and he scheduled a consult for me to meet with a Neurologist and a Neuro-psychotherapist. The Neurologist would be able to tell me just what was going on with my back and the numbness in my right leg, and the neuro-psychotherapist would be able to figure out what was going on with my memory problems. When I saw my doctor, he told me that I had black dots on the MRI scan of my brain. These black dots were scarring from the total body radiation that I had in preparation of my stem cell transplant. How would this affect my memory? Dr. Parker told me that 3 things could happen as a result of this new finding. The scarring could: a) go away and have no effect on me, b) get worse and I would have to go on alzheimer's medications, or c) would stay the same.

The rest of the day was good, it was just a little discouraging to hear that I have a small medical condition as a result of the radition. But when I look at it, I mean really look at it, It isn't that bad. I mean it could be worse - like getting another type of cancer. - But knock on wood -that shouldn't happen. :)

Ok breathe... take a deep breath. Stay calm.

I am really good at staying calm during what may considered high stress times. I'm not sure exactly how I do it, but I usually take a big deep breath, and breathe out, and stay calm and collected. For anyone in my position, well my position at this moment may be overly worried or stressed out when parts of our lives are a little different or things change with our bodies.

The past few days have been a little weird for me. I've been spacing out a lot, some disorientation, and forgetting a lot of normal things that I usually don't forget. Like taking my meds. Lol. I've experienced dizziness, extreme fatigue, and some other weird effects like forgeting the previous days activities or having to write everything down so I don't forget.

So today, I spent the day, once again at the City of Hope, this time with my friend Lucy. We spent numerous hours waiting and chatting up a storm, while waiting to see my doctor. Dr. Parker, once again had me do some goofy things - bouncing up and down on one leg, putting my feet together and closing my eyes while standing there, and my favorite - the drunk walk- as if I was walking on a tightrope. Lol. All the while, I was laughing, I once again felt like a complete dork. But what would life be like without a little dorkiness? :) I was calm, as I waited for the results of my blood test and what Dr. Parker would have me do next. There before me, stood my two nurse practitioners smiling at me - Miss Lynn & Miss Michelle. Dr. Parker told me that my blood tests and cultures were all normal, nothing showed up there, but he decided that I would need to get an MRI of my brain within the week. Hence he told me that I couldn't drive, until he got the results of the MRI. Oh man! No driving?! That stinks, but I can do it.

My next appointment is a horrible 7am MRI appointment at the City of Hope on Friday the 20th of this month. I already have a ride with my friend Glen, who will be picking me up at 6am! Ugh. I am definately not that functional that early in the morning! And how will I get to the gym this week? Hmmmm. When I know what's going on with me on Friday, I will write once again - before you know it, the results will be in!

The key to dealing with stressful or tough situations is simple. Don't stress out, take it one breath at a time and stay calm. Sometimes we over-react to things that really may have simple answers/solutions to them. We know our bodies and we know whats normal for us, so if something feels out of the ordinary for you, document it - make sure to include the date and let your doctor know how you're feeling. It could be nothing, or it could be something that needs to be treated right away! Don't ignore your body's smoke signals! ;) Till next time.