Meeeeeerry Christmas!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all readers my blog. If you celebrate any other holidays and observances, best wishes to you as well. May the coming year bring much health, happiness to you and yours, and better treatments for multiple myeloma and other cancers. Let's hope for a cure while we're at it. On a personal note, my next results appointment is in late January, preceded by my 3rd skeletal survey to date, so I'll have news about that in a few weeks.

Ok... I can't wait any longer. I have to share this wonderful site, along the lines of Awkward Family Photos. Ladies and gents, here is Sketchy Santas. Ohhhhh baby, there are some good ones here.

Shatner and Palin

Perfect follow-up to my last post. William Shatner appeared on the Tonight Show to do a "dramatic reading" from Palin's Going Rogue book. Then to Shatner's Surprise, Palin appeared to read from his autiobiography "Up Till Now". Made for an amusing Tonight Show moment.

Tawkin' With Sarah Palin Fans

As a Canadian, I was relieved when Obama became President of the USA. It was a relief to have intelligence and awareness back in the White House, after too many years of Bush. But wait, as a Canadian, is this any of my business? You're darn tootin' it is. The USA has massive influence on the world stage, is our neighbour and trading partner, and major gaffes aside, it is a force for good in this world, all things considered (not including Iraq and Afghanistan). When McCain ran with Palin, I couldn't help but think, "oh no, here we go again", but voters spoke. Loudly. Whew.

Uh oh... look over yonder. Here comes Sarah Palin. Again. This lady is a somewhat more refined version of Bush, at least where ideologies are concerned. Yet they have so much in common - a disturbing lack of awareness or foreign policy, of management and did I mention awareness? There is a slim chance she may become the next President. She has supporters, who don't seem to know (or care) that she is an intellectual lightweight, covering her ignorance with America this and jobs that... which brings me to this video.

The people at New Left Media recently interviewed regular American folks at a Palin book signing. The interviewers asked open-ended questions to many people, and probe a bit to see if they have anything to back up their statements or beliefs. Like Palin during the Katie Couric interview and others, most of them don't, apart from "I'm an Amercian" or some anti-socialism comment (when cornered, play the pride, freedom and paranoid card). Many believe that Palin has the qualities and spirit of a great leader, capable of offering so much to the people of the USA. She does, if that means comedy.

Now I love people. All kinds of people. But votes of ignorance can be dangerous when folks see something that just isn't there. As for Palin, I'm sure she's a great person, a loving mother and a good soul. As a leader, she has much to be proud of... however, in my book, a truly smart individual would recognize that she is simply not up to the challenges posed by the presidency, and not even consider the position, else this becomes an example of the Peter Principle.

Without further ado (and ranting), here's the video.



And so ends my first armchair political blog post.

The Ice Caps are Melting

Hmmm... what to write about this week. Gee, I wonder what treats Tiny Tim might have for us. Ah yes, a cozy yet nightmarish sing-along about melting ice caps and global warming causing chaos, drowning and death. The addition of little kids in this macabre sing-along makes it warm and fuzzy. Or not. I wonder what the kids were thinking, but they may have become desensitized during rehearsals, or at least held tight by their parents that evening with promises of new bikes and choruses of "there there".

The mere fact this video exists is an Inconvenient Truth. Meh, who am I kidding. I loved it.

Art of Noise

While listening to some "oldies" on XM radio, I heard Close (to the Edit) by  Art of Noise. The video features a little punk girl along with the AoN guys. This video was banned in New Zealand for encouraging violence toward children, which does not make sense once you've viewed the video. Seems the AoN guys wore masks in the video for more than the artsy feel - they did not want to be perceived as Huey Lewis and the News. Not sure how that would have been possible, unless Mr. Lewis also used chainsaws in his videos. Personally, I think a chainsaw should be taken to his recordings.

How Do I Spell Relief?

How do I spell relief? I-N-D-O-L-E-N-T. Had an oncology appointment today and got the good news. Blood test results are fine although they showed very high ferratine levels. I've read that bloodletting is a treatment for high iron levels. Drain some blood, drain some iron. I've yet to hear anything official from my doctor, and in the meantime, I'll stay away from magnets.

In my search for internet gems, here's another to share with you. Kermit the Frog doing his version of the Talking Heads' Once in a Lifetime.

Carl Sagan - A Glorious Dawn (Auto-tune)

Among my interests are pop culture, science and having fun with media. I ran across a video that combines all three and had to share. Melodysheep, a YouTuber, took some Carl Sagan videos and mashed them up with Stephen Hawking video. Some auto-tune effects, looping and synthesizers were added for this impressive result. I must have listened to this 20 times so far. It's a fine tribute to both scientists. I really hope Hawking gets to see this. Be amazed and enjoy.

The Devil and Daniel Johnston

Many moons ago I had a radio show while at university. It was a great Thursday 8:00-10:00pm slot and I used this time to explore the best in alternative music. Well, at least what I considered to be the best. During this time I picked up a tape called Yip/Jump music by Daniel Johnston. Daniel was a unique and troubled soul, having bipolar disorder and believing Satan was after him. His music was very melodic, touching, urgent, sometimes disturbing and always deep. He became a musical star in his own right, and his songs have been covered by The Flaming Lips, Beck, Death Cab for Cutie and Tom Waits. I suppose you'll either love or hate his music, but if you do like it, you'll like it a lot.

A few years ago, a documentary film was made called The Devil and Daniel Johnston. I've seen it at least five times and continue to be amazed by his genius and shaken by his instability. In some respects, he reminds me of Pink Floyd's Syd Barrett.

As one of its coolest apps to date, Apple has released the Daniel Johnston's "Hi, How Are You" game. Appropriately, you play Jeremiah the Frog trying to escape Satan's curse, with some of Daniel's songs as background music.

Daniel is still around, living in Texas, still performing on occasion, and producing his own style of art. I recommend you take the time to check out his movie. Here's the trailer.

Another Test Day

Sorry I have not posted in a while. I recently started working again after a great vacation, and it's been nuts, to say the least. So here's a bits and pieces post.

Another test day's already here. As usual, Bence-Jones and blood tests, following by waiting for a call from one of my doctors. To my knowledge, my MM is still indolent, but it's a bit unsettling to wonder for how long. I often forget I have stage I cancer... and it's nice.

A Canadian actor, Lisa May (37), was recently on television to promote her new movie and discuss her mutliple myeloma diagnosis. You can check out the video here.

A new Canadian lottery is starting soon, on the same day as my birthday, no less. So, wish me luck.

I'll leave you with this gem of a viral video.

My Digital Life

What a busy past few weeks this has been. I'm glad to share that I passed both Comptia A+ exams and am now a certified computer technician. It was designation suggested for work and has been a personal goal of mine for a while. I've also been enjoying what was left of my vacation by doing some nothing, which takes some doing. Oh yes, and researching new vehicles, mainly small crossovers and SUVs. I can't but help being a bit morbid and wonder if it's the last vehicle I'll ever buy. Trying to decide between a Subaru Forester, a Nissan Rogue or a Hyundai Santa Fe. Or maybe I'll just get a team of dogs and a good sled to carry me through the winter. Mush.

Health-wise, nothing all that new to report. A Bence-Jones test I had done a few weeks ago was rejected thanks to traces of blood in my urine. I don't see any blood when I urinate and hope this isn't a sign of another health issue. Bone pain and extremity sensations continue, varying from throbbing, pins and needles to warmth. Could be related to MM neuropathy or just arthritis. That's the hassle of MM. It makes you paranoid since you wonder if every little ache and pain signals the progression of the disease. Oh cancer, how I loathe thee.

In changing the subject, I'll leave you with this jem - Idioteque by one of my very favourite bands - Radiohead. I love this band for their muscial complexity, energy, artistry and sound. Top notch, in my book.

Thinking Ahead about Biophosphates

Howdy. I haven't posted in a while due to studying for my A+ Certification and enjoying goofing off during my vacation. All said, I've been feeling pretty good apart from increasingly frequent pain in my humerus, femur and tibia bones. My doctor says while this could be a symptom of myeloma, it could just be arthritis. I've also been experiencing what I think is neuropathy in my extremities (tips of fingers and toes). Although my MM has been diagnosed at stage I and indolent, it's still a bit unnerving to think about what might be coming. Still, I'm not letting this stop me from living and it seldom gets be worried. I went through a major "freak out" period just prior to being officially diagnosed, between my bone marrow biopsy and results appointment. I refuse to feel like that again. Although I'm feeling positive I am still being proactive.

Although skeletal surveys show my bones to be strong and free of lesions, I am aware that in the future I may need to take biophosphates. These drugs are also used in treating osteoperosis, and are used to bind areas where bones have been destroyed. A rare but serious side effect is osteonecrosis of the jaw, where the jaw bones do not receive adequate oxygen or nutrients and can collapse. This side effect occurs in 1-6% of patients, and can be caused by dental work prior to or during taking biophosphate drugs. For this reason, it is recommended patients have dental work compelted prior to taking biophosphates or stop taking the drugs prior dental procedures (on their doctor's recommendations, of course). In thinking ahead, I'm getting a filling replaced in efforts to fix a fractured tooth. Oh, the joy. My dentist said I would not be a high risk for jaw disease, but did recommend the problem be addressed.

You can read more about biophosphates and MM here.

Going to the dentist reminds me of the following skit featuring Tim Conway and Harvey Korman. I love how they stuggle to keep a straight face through the skit. Fortunately, my dentist is much more competent than this guy. Enjoy.

UPDATE: I jist goth backsh from da dentisht. Went well, but I'm shtill a bit fwozen.

Multiple Myeloma Genome Unlocked

A fellow myeloma forum member once said "it's a good time to have multiple myeloma", in reference to the rapid pace of discoveries about the disease and what makes it tick. Case in point - the MM genome has been unlocked. Hopefully this will lead to more effective and individualized treatments, and possibly a cure down the road. I find comfort in my faith in science and medicine, and am confident several new options will be available when this disease progresses. Good news for anyone with MM.

In other news, it's been a busy week. I attended an intensive Cisco A+ Essentials Skills training and passed with flying colours. Now for the A+ Certification exam. Yep, I'm a geek. And speaking of which, someone took footage from Star Wars and created a Han Solo PI video, as a tribute (or sorts) to Magnum PI. Here's a side-by-side comparison. I think it's pretty impressive.

Results Day

I met with my doctor today and all is well! No bone lesions, kidneys are functioning normally and blood numbers are excellent. The doctor said the MM is still indolent and has stretched the time until my next appointment. However...

My x-ray results show compression of the C3 vertebrae, and there is an indication I'k suffering from spina bifida. This was news to me and my doctor. Because I had the x-rays taken at my local hospital (instead of the one I travel to for the oncology appointments), my doctor insisted the x-rays be re-interpreted. I can't help but think mine were mixed up with someone else's.

All in all, good news! Must say I feel a bit odd to have started a cancer blog when I'm still at stage I, not that I'm complaining.

In other news... As some of you might know, my wife and I went to NYC this July and had a fantastic trip. I took a pile of videos and photos, most of which I posted on facebook. Here's the first video I took, on our way from the airport to our hotel. Listen closely.

Fight Myeloma Podcast

I stumbled across a podast called Fight Myeloma on iTunes this evening. It's from the Huntsman Cancer Institute at the University of Utah, and features info on wellness, patient stories and myeloma basics. You can access the podcast on the Hunstman Cancer Institute website, or from iTunes.

Need a Laugh?

Need a smile, laugh or distraction from thoughts of cancer - or life in general for that matter? Check out Awkward Family Photos. You might even want to submit one of your own... or not. Here's a preview, and you're welcome.

Back Home & Back to Reality

I am still buzzing from my trip to NYC. What energy, flow, buildings, warmth, crowds, fun and noise! My wife and I had a great time, loved the 2 musicals and 1 play we saw (I highly recommend God of Carnage), and The Late Show with David Letterman was fun. I got my photos taken with Rupert and Biff Henderson, which was quite a thrill, being a long-time fan. We had a good mix of seeing tourist attractions and just hanging out and absorbing the New York experience. We had a great tour or Greenwich Village and Soho, which focused on rock & roll landmarks such as Cafe Wha?, the site of the famed CBGB's and Electric Lady Studios (thanks, Shawn!). We will definitely be going back. Inspired, I took hundreds of photos and video, uploading them to Facebook to share with family and friends. Seems I've inspired a few to take their own trip to the Big Apple!

The trip made me forget about my cancer, which was one of the best parts. I have more blood tests and another skeletal survey today with results later this month. The trip was both a great distraction and a ton of fun. I'm leaving it on my bucket list, however. We will definitely be going back!

PARP Inhibitors - New Hope for Treating Cancer?

One of the great difficulties in treating cancer is controlling the reproductions of cancer cells and getting them to die. Unlike normal cells, cancer cells don't have natural lifespan. They grow and spread in an effort to survive much to a cancer patient's dismay. They also ignore the body's chemical message regulating cell reproduction and growth. Luckily, science is paving the way for better treatments for myeloma and other cancers.

I ran across a blog posting on PARP inhibitors and their role in inhibiting malignant cell reproduction and even inducing apoptosis (death) of cancer cells. As opposed to chemotherapy which ravages one's entire body, PARP is used as a focused molecular therapy. As my doctor puts it, many present treatment options are equivalent to using an atom bomb to kill a mouse. New ones use a BB gun to kill the mouse. Although the studies have focused on breast cancer, they may offer hope in treating a variety of cancers. From a website I visited, "studies suggest the drugs selectively inhibit cell proliferation and are active against a broad range of tumor types." This is crucial in treating myeloma and other cancerous cells - cancer cells are cellular reproduction gone haywire. They don't die like normal cells, hence the increase of plasma cell numbers in bone marrow.

A PARP article in the New England Journal of Medicine article also offers hope, and suggests the present procedures involving clinical trials need to be reviewed. This may lead to greater and faster access to new drugs.

Hope indeed. Oh, and no mice were harmed during the posting of this blog message.

Star Trek Meets Monty Python

As readers of this blog and come to know (and as some have come to appreciate), I enjoy posting the occasional fun/odd video I find on the Internets. I found the following this morning and thought I'd share, being a huge fan of Star Trek and Monty Python. Always good to have a laugh or a smile sometimes! Hope you enjoy this.

New York City Here We Come!

It's time for the big NYC trip! My wife and I have been planning this for weeks and we finally leave this Sunday for 5 days in the Big Apple. On the agenda:

• Late Show with David Letterman taping (I am thrilled about this.)
• Broadway: Rock of Ages, God of Carnage and possibly Mamma Mia!
• A "Real New York Tour" through downtown NYC with a stop at Ground Zero.
• Walks through Chinatown, Soho, Greenwich Village and Central Park.
• Visit to the American Museum of Natural History, the South Street Seaport Bodies exhibition, the Apple Store on 5th Ave (I'm a recent Mac convert).
• Shows at the Iridium Jazz Club (Les Paul and surprise guest) and the Comedy Cellar.
• Staten Island Ferry trip.
• Views from the top of the Empire State Building and the Rockafeller Center.
• Lots of great food in well-researched eateries, and of course, a slice of cheese pizza.
• More to be determined, including some down time to just take it all in.

I am fortunate to feel well enough to take this trip, and plan to enjoy every minute. Although I still do not need to begin treatments, some aches and pains have me a bit paranoid - but they are not slowing me down. I have blood tests and a skeletal survey scheduled for the Monday after our return, and I learn the results at my oncologist appointment on July 23rd. Here's to hoping supplements and exercise can keep this disease at bay for a while yet.

Latest Results, NYC & Letterman?

It's very odd to be diagnosed with cancer and not need to start treatment. Not that I'm complaining. I received a call from my oncologist's office yesterday. I was told my Beta-2 microglobulin levels are normal, at least for now. This protein is found on the surface of white blood cells and is indicative of increased production (or destruction) of plasma cells in the bone marrow. It is an important marker for people with multiple myeloma. So far I'm still at stage I MM, where I hope to remain for a long time. However, I am still starting my bucket list. Top of the list - New York City!

My wife and I will be leaving for NYC in July. So far, we've booked tickets for Rock of Ages and God of Carnage with James Gandolfini (aka Tony Soprano). Checking out the John Lennon exhibit at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, taking a ride on the Staten Island Ferry, possible Shakespeare in The Park, viewing the city from the top of the Rockafeller Centre and more. Really looking forward to experiencing the vibe and people of the city, as much as the attractions. Oh yes, and being a recent Mac convert, I will be visiting the Apple Cube store.

I am hoping for Letterman tickets. I've applied, swallowed my pride and wrote to his office asking for tickets, but haven't heard anything yet. Seeing Dave would definitely be huge. Here's to hope.

UPDATE: Just got a call from the Late Show this afternoon! We're going to the Ed Sullivan Theatre to see Dave!!

Obama Fly Swat

A few days ago, Obama swatted and killed a fly that was annoying him during an interview. Of course, someone had some fun with the video clip. In this case, a guy by the name of Mike Relm.

As a tech and media geek, I love how people can take a video clip and make it fun and all their own. Enjoy.



In MM news, my next blood tests and skeletal survey are July 13th with results day on July 21st. All after the big NYC trip with my loving wife, thank you very much. Still at stage I for the moment and hoping to stay there for quite a spell.

Jason Carpenter's Myeloma Video Blog

I ran across a video blog from Jason Carpenter, an MM survivor. At 33, Jason was diagnosed with late stage MM. He created the blog to document his treatment, experiences and to provide updates to family and friends. The videos are help people understand what myeloma "feels" like, from associated pains, side effect of meds, back surgery, chemo and a stem transplant.

I found it very encouraging that his last posting was made on May 9, 2009. Seems he was too busy living to continue posting - that is great news for him, and inspiring for people living with myeloma.

Jason has a collection of his YouTube videos, which you can see here. However, I could not see how to sort them chronologically, so I'm posting the links in order.

Here's hist first clip:



Road to Remission (Videos 2-10 were posted on August 16, 2007)
2: The Diagnosis
3: How People Reacted
4: Dealing with the Doctors
5: My Meds and Their Side Effect

6: How I'm Feeling
7: Puke Time
8a: Doctor Follow-Up Part 1
8B: Doctor Follow-Up Part 2
9: How I Feel/Stem Cells
10: How I Feel/Subway Story

11: How I Feel (August 21, 2007)
12: Doctor Recommends Back Surgery (April 28, 2007)
13: BIG Week for Me/How I Feel (August 27, 2007)
14: Pre-Op Blood Draw (August 29, 2007)
15a: First Cancer Treatment Follow-Up (August 30, 2007)
15b: First Cancer Treatment Follow-Up II (August 30, 2007)
16: What the Shrink Thinks (August 20, 2007)
17: Well-Wishing Strangers (September 5, 2007)
18: A Word on Gossip (September 5, 2007)
19: Big News/How I Feel (September 6, 2007)
20: Back Surgery/How I Feel (September 17, 2007)

21: Back Surgery/Hospital Footage (September 17, 2007)
22: Back Surgery/Hospital Footage (September 17, 2007)
23: Back Surgery/Hospital Footage (September 17, 2007)
24: Back Surgery/Hospital Footage (September 17, 2007)
25: Back Surgery/Hospital Footage (September 17, 2007)
27 Part 1: Not One of My Better Days (September 29, 2007)
27 Part 2: Not One of My Better Days (September 30, 2007)
28: How My Grandma & I Are Feeling (October 9, 2007)
29: New Cancer Levels/Rash/Beard (October 26, 2007)
30: How I'm Feeling (Not Well) (November 11, 2007)

31: How Fam & Friends Should Get Involved (November 25, 2007)
32a: Cancer Numbers Increasing? Lurker? (December 4, 2007)
32b: Cancer Numbers Increasing?Lurkers? (December 3, 2007)
33: Paris/Dominican/Welcome College Buddies (December 27, 2007)
34: Transplant/Primping Out Hospital Room
35: Emotional Breakdowns/Lonely as Hell
36: Bad News Involving a Sperm Bank (January 4, 2008)

Transplant Updates:
Remission (January 9, 2008)
Pneumonia, Stranger in Need, Remission (January 25, 2008)
Bone Marrow Stem Cell Transplant (March 4, 2008)
Autologus Stem Cell Transplant (March 8, 2008)
Recovery Hits Snag: The Common Cold (March 22, 2008)

Sister's 30th B-Day, Go UMass (April 2, 2008)
Advice on Hair Falling Out (April 9, 2008)
Testosterone, Hair Coming Back! Part 1 (April 26, 2008)
Testosterone, Hair Part 2 (April 26, 2008)
I'm baaaaaaaaaack (July 28, 2008)
Sorry for the Lapse (October 23, 2008)

Monthly Infusions (November 5, 2008)
A Video From the Top of the Mayan Temple (May 9, 2009)

Test Results - Whew!

Had my latest oncology appointment this morning, and my myeloma is still indolent for the time being. Whew. Blood test numbers are excellent and there is no indications of secretions into my bloodstream. Although my doctor said it could remain indolent for a "quite a while", I am very aware it could progress to the next stage very quickly. My wife and I were very relieved at the news. As soon as we got home, we booked our plane tickets for New York City, part of my bucket list. The trip is also part of our 5-year wedding anniversary, and we intend on really enjoying ourselves.

I asked him about the odd bone pain I was experiencing in my right leg and lower and upper arms. He said it could be myeloma-related neuropathy, but it could also be arthritis. My mother has been suffering with arthritis for years, and it started in her early 40s. This could be genetic. So what are the next steps? More blood work and another skeletal exam in July. Should the myeloma be progressing, my doctor will call a city hospital to determine if I am a candidate for stem cell and high-dose chemo, and then the real journey begins.

In other news, I've been a fan of The Office (UK) for years, and finally gave The Office (US) a try. I love both of them now, and I highly recommend them for a laugh and a distraction. The writing and dead-pan deliveries are brilliant. If you need a laugh, check out this series. Case in point (from the UK version):

Local Relay For Life on June 6th

My town's Relay for Life cancer fundraiser is this weekend. Relay for Life is a 12-hour event in support of loved ones who have cancer, and in memory or its victims. People raise money from sponsors and walk around a track in 1-hour shifts. There's music, friends and spirits are high. "Luminaries" (candles) are purchased and lit in memory or support of loved ones. I've been a participant for years, but this is the first Relay since my diagnosis. When my wife asked me if I wanted to go to the Survivors' Dinner and Victory Lap, I respectfully said no.

I am not in denial or embarassed about having cancer. I know I have myeloma, and have accepted that I will have to live with the disease. My wife said from the minute I was diagnosed I was considered a survivor, but since I've yet to start treatment it doesn't feel that way. I just don't feel I've earned the right to walk amongst the survivors in the victory lap. Another reason is that I don't want the attention it may bring as poeple find out I have cancer. To my knowledge, few people in my town and few colleagues know I am "ill", and that is fine with me. Or, maybe they do know, and aren't saying anything because they are uncomfortable or just hate my guts. I am not dwelling on the possibilities.

I will be there on June 6th as the Survivors take their walk around the track. I will cheer them on and feel for and with them. I will take my scheduled walk from 3-4 a.m. (ugh, what was I thinking). Maybe next year I'll join the Survivors. Should I start treatment by then, maybe I will feel differently. My next oncology appointment is on June 9th. I will get the results of blood tests and learn if myeloma has progressed enough to start treatment, or if I can take a free pass for another two months. What a life.

I can't not share this

One of my hobbies is discovering oddities on the internets. A friend sent this to me today and I can't not share this... from the 70s colour coordinated outfits to the cheesy lyrics, the video is rather special. My dear readers, proving this blog is about more than cancer, I present Sonseed:



(Thanks, M)

Blood Tests Tomorrow

When I was diagnosed with with stage I MM on April 16th, my doctor decided to monitor my condition with blood tests every two months. Tomorrow's test day, with my next oncology appointment on June 9th. I've been experiencing more frequent and intense bone pain over the past weeks. More worrisome than painful - until yesterday. It was the first time I've felt "sick" since my diagnosis, and I had to skip a retirement dinner for a colleague because of the discomfort. I fear this might be stage II creeping up, but I'll know more in June. Until then, I'm livin', and being an internet addict, enjoying stuff like this:

Vitamins, Curcumin and Wheatgrass

I've started to take various supplements to help my system fight cancer. After doing some research on various helpers, here's what I'm adding to my arsenal. I'm hoping this will complement exercise, healthier food choices and a positive attitude.

• Curcumin - A powerful anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory. According to wikipedia, it also may induce apostasis, or death of cancer cells. Sold! I take 1-400g capsule 3 times daily.
• Vitamin D - Softening and weakening of the bones is an eventual symptom of myeloma. Bisphosonates are often given to help strengthen bones, but I've read that vitamin D can be a huge help. Taking 1-1000UI capsule in the morning.
• Anti-oxidant multivitamin - I was taking Centrum Protegra, but a dietician familiar with eating to fight cancer recommended a better vitamin. My "Le Naturiste" brand contains vitamin C and E, zinc, selenium, lycopene, grape seed extract and other anti-oxidants. I take 2 capsules daily.

Coming soon - wheatgrass. I received my seed kit a few days ago and the seeds are germinating. I have my Z-Star manual juicer fastened to the kitchen counter and ready to go once the wheatgrass is ready for harvest. Many believe wheatgrass can "shrink cancer", boost the immune system and help the body eliminate toxins. I just figure it's worth a try. I'd like to stick around for as long as possible.

A Few of my Favourite Things - Music Edition

There's more to any cancer patient than a disease. So, in an effort to share a bit of what makes me me, here's the first in a series of A Few of My Favourite Things, starting with music.

Music has always been a huge part of my life. It's motivation, an escape, comfort, fun, jarring, emotional and just plain fun. My tastes range from punk to Acadian folk music, from Nana Mouskouri to Hüsker Dü, from Hank Snow to Joy Division. My musical tastes really expanded when I started listening to CKDU, the Dalhousie University radio station. I even had my own show there for a while. Here are some favourites in case you're interested in checking some of this stuff out. It's well worth it, if I do say so myself.

• Wire's Pink Flag album. It's perfect - edgy, melodious, full of fast, short tunes. Their song Strange was covered by R.E.M., and when you listen to the lyrics it fits that myeloma feeling pretty well.
• Jacques Brel's "Ne Me Quittes Pas". A brilliant song about pleading for the love of another. One of the most powerful songs and videos I have ever heard or seen.
• Just about anything by Radiohead. Their music is exquisitely layered with different instruments, moods and melodies. A band you can love and respect, especially for dissing Hannah Montana. Sorry, Miley... There, There.
• Johnny Cash's At Folsom Prison album. I've always wished I'd seen him in concert, but I did see him in a shopping mall walking around with a rather hyper June Carter. They were alone, just enjoying each other and free from crowds of fans. Another favourite would be his cover of Nine Inch Nail's Hurt. Brilliant video.
• Nick Drake battled several demons and depression while creating some very beautiful and influential music. Such as Pink Moon. He died way too young, as did Tim Buckley and his son, Jeff Buckley.
• Plus a ton of other bands, such as The Police, R.E.M., The Guess Who, Leonard Cohen, Kate Bush, XTC, Minutemen, Joy Division and more.

I also play some acoustic guitar, but I'm an amateur in the true sense of the word. I play for the love of playing, despite very mediocre skills. I've always wished I could play the guitar, or even the ukulele effortlessly. Like the following gentleman. Enjoy.

A One Cheek Sneak (In More Ways Than One)

Time for a laugh. Back in the 80s, I used to watch a TV evangelist named Robert Tilton. It was the best comedy on television, and an infomercial masquerading as religious programming. His rants often bordered on non-sensical and his facial expressions were dramatic, quirky and bizarre. When he ran out of things to say, he'd scrunch his eyes closed or start speaking in tongues. Hysterical. He asked viewers to send in monetary "vows of faith", and they did, to the tune of $80 million a year. In the 90s, his ministry came crashing down thanks for various investigations, including one by ABC News' Primetime Live (part 1, part 2, part 3). He's back at it, but is a shadow of his former self.

As an exquisite example of poetic justice, Tilton may forever best be remembered as The Farting Preacher, as you'll see from the following video. You might have seen this before, but if not, you're in for a treat. Watch it once for the fun, and a second time for the weird showmanship that was passed for passion - pardon the pun. I've known about the video for years, but shared it with some colleagues a few days ago, and thought it would make a great blog post. Oh, and you're welcome.

Bucket List

Gee Wally, being faced with one's own mortality sure ain't no fun, especially at 42. So, what's a guy to do? Why, start a bucket list, of course. First on the list is a trip to New York City with my lovely wife. My next blood tests are in a just over a week, and I hope my beta-2 microglobulin levels are stable enough so I don't have to start treatment just yet. Wouldn't want to miss a chance to see the Big Apple, check out Gods of Carnage on Broadway with James Gandolfini and Jeff Daniels, and have the mandatory slice of NYC pizza.

I've sent in a request for Letterman tickets, so Dave, if you (or someone in your staff) sees this... puh-lease accept our request for tickets. Or if you like, email me and we can make some arrangements! (Hey, I'm an optimist!) We also want to try for Daily Show and Colbert Report, and comedy gods willing, we'll see at least one taping. Also on the list are Central Park, the Metropolitan Museum, the hop-on-hop-off tour, and Times Square, for starters. Can't wait.

What comes next on the bucket list? Who knows... I'm hoping I'll have plenty of time to consider the 2nd item of a very long list.

Dietitian's Recommendations

I met with two dietitians yesterday, one of whom has just returned from a cancer health spa in Florida. He shared a lot of tips about what to eat and not eat in order to boost one's immune system. Here are some of his recommendations:

• Avoid aspartame, Splenda, pop (too acidic - cancer cells thrive in an acidic enviroment)


• Limit servings of fruit to 2 servings a day because of the sugar content (I will be choosing low GI fruits).


• Take a good multivitamin (said Centrum was not very good). He recommended vitamin D (1000 UI was great.


• Take digestive enzymes and probiotics (such as BioK) to help digest food better and more quickly, giving one's immune system more time and energy to fight the cancer cells.


• Invest in a manual juicer and drink juice from dark green veggies, with some onions and garlic. A manual juicer preserves the integrity of the enzymes.


• Have a green salad with every meal.


• Yellow and red peppers are better than green ones.


• Green tea, green tea, green tea! (Unless you are taking Velcade, since it interferes with the medication)


• Coffee is still ok in moderation, but switch from cream to milk.


• Eat organic almonds, soaked in water overnight. Helps release enzymes for the best health benefit.


• Avoid acidic foods (hence no more pop).


• Exercise is important... cancer cells do not thrive in an oxygenated environment. Walk.


• He recommended avoiding Splenda and to use Stevia (liquid sweetener).


• Eat quinoa instead of potatoes. He said buckwheat was fine to eat too, along with whole grains.


• Avoid juice powders such as Crystal Light, since they may contain aspartame or Splenda. Water is best.

To save time, I bought an electric juicer for veggies and fruit, but ordered a manual Z Star juicer for wheatgrass and a wheatgrass kit. All part of efforts to feel more empowered and helping my immune system fight cancer. Now to find juicing recipes. Cheers!

Two Myeloma Videos

The following videos might help you understand a bit more about myeloma. Both videos are from Myeloma UK.

An introduction - what is myeloma?



What is it like to live with Myeloma?



I hope these videos help you better understand this disease. My bone pain is slowly starting to increase in both frequency and intensity. My next blood tests are at the end of May... I'm thinking that treatment is not far away, but am hoping for the best.

Gates of Heaven

One of the best movies I've ever seen is a documentary about the relocation of a pet cemetery. Filmed in 1978, Gates of Heaven presents a touching and often hilarious look at pets, life, people and death. It's also a guilty pleasure - you can't help but be amused by some of the people interviewed. One moment you find yourself laughing and the next thinking about insights offered by the variety of people in the film. I'm not sharing this because I have cancer, so don't mistake this post for anything other than wanting to recommend this movie as a true gem.

In his review Gates of Heaven, Roger Ebert states the film "has become an underground legend, a litmus test for audiences, who cannot decide if it is serious or satirical, funny or sad, sympathetic or mocking." Once you see the film, you will understand what he means. Ebert also mentioned he has seen this film over 30 times.

Here are two favourite clips from the movie. Enjoy.

"Hey, where did you get the name for your blog?"

As friends and family find out about my cancer diagnosis, many have said they will include me in their prayers. I smile, and thank them with great sincerity. In my opinion, prayers are the same as good thoughts, and anyone can use those. However, I do not entertain the hope that God may listen to them and miraculously cure my cancer. After all, he has not done so for people much more deserving of his help, and with much lighter requests.

I've always been fascinated by the idea of God and religion. I respect people who choose faith and believe. I sometimes wonder what happens once we die. Is it much like flipping a switch and we're either on or off? Will our souls continue in any way shape or form? I doubt it. Luckily, I am in a win-win position. If I'm right, I won't know the difference to even be disappointed. If there is a God, he'll forgive me for having my doubts, and I'll be in Heaven. He wouldn't send me to hell now, would he? Then again, I would think Heaven would be rather boring, especially for an eternity. I'll take the off switch, thanks.

Eating to Live, Lose and Fight

As part of my screw cancer attitude, I've been making some huge changes to my eating habits. I've always been overweight and sedentary. As an example, I used to read Men's Health magazine while eating chips thinking, "oh yeah, I'll have to try that healthy idea out tomorrow. " Get the idea? A friend of mine, who is also a physician, recommended a book on Foods That Fight Cancer by Richard Béliveau. It explains how cancer forms and how it can be prevented and fought. It describes not only the science of cancer, but that of food. This book is my guide to smart eating. It actually feels empowering to be eating healthier, knowing I am losing weight and helping my immune system fight cancer. Bring on the broccoli. Did I just type that?

My family doctor and I discussed the likely stem cell and chemo treatements and the effect myeloma will have on my bones if or when it develops. I'm too heavy for my frame, and need to lose weight by eating better and exercising - pronto. As my doctor said, "consider yourself in training." Cue the Rocky theme.

A Perfect Metaphor

This video is a perfect metaphor for people facing cancer. You feel screwed, but must remain positive. Enjoy.

Diagnosis... The Best Kind of Bad News

Hi... I'm just some guy with cancer. I was officially diagnosed with stage I multpiple myeloma on April 16th, 2009. Myeloma is cancer of the plasma cells in the bone marrow. They multiply and don't die, crowding out other blood cells. The disease leads to softened bones, bone lesions, kidney problems and increasing risk of infection. Luckily, I do not yet have any bone lesions and my plasma cells are at 15%. My doctor says the myeloma is indolent, or inactive, for the time being at least. I'll need another biopsy in 6 months, and blood test every 2 months. Should levels of beta-2 microglobulin increase, I'll need to start treatment immediately. My doctor hinted it will consist of Vel/dex followed by an autologous stem cell and chemotherapy procedure. Whew. The news was very surreal, and on the drive back from the appointment, I asked my wife to confirm that I truly heard I have cancer. Oh, did I mention there was a build up to that moment?

Blood tests led to concerns which led to more tests, the discovery of monoclonal gammopathy, and a bone marrow biopsy. On March 26th, I had an appointment to learn about the biopsy results. I learned I had smoldering myeloma and had more tests. I was in a fog for days... you name the emotion, and I had it - fear, anger, sadness, frustration. After 3 weeks of waiting, I had my next appointment, and got the rough(er) news. To my surprise, getting the "official" cancer diagnosis was actually calming. I was through feeling panicked and helpless. Cancer was here, so I couldn't worry about getting it anymore. The diagnosis pushed me to a new level of coping, and of making choices. I choose to make the most of the time I have left, to enjoy time with my wife, my family, my friends. To remember that my job is not my life. To take the time to smile, laugh, live, and as a colleague of mine (and cancer survivor) said, "to enjoy every sandwich".

So this news brings me to this blog. I created it to for several reasons. I want to share and document my journey with myeloma as a form of therapy, to help me work out my thoughts about life and this disease, and maybe even to help other people with myeloma. Don't worry, it won't be all cancer talk. You'll see.