Mesothelioma Awareness

I will be writing a final blog post, reflecting on the marathon and wrapping-up this entire experience, but first... 

The beauty and purpose of a blog is that it reaches a vast audience with just a click of a button.  Enter Emily Walsh.  She is the Community Outreach Director for the Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance.  She recently contacted me, along with other bloggers in the cancer community, to spread awareness of mesothelioma.  I said I would be happy to spread the word. 

September 26 is Mesothelioma Awareness Day.  Click here to see this year's campaign. It smartly blends mesothelioma statistics, asbestos information, a survivor story, and social media with a theme of "hope."  I particularly like their tagline, "From awareness grows hope. Each voice could save a life." 

In honor of Mesothelioma Awareness Day, Emily wrote an article, "8 Things You Should About Mesothelioma."  In the article, she highlights the following facts about mesothelioma:
1. Mesothelioma is caused by asbestos exposure.
2. No amount of exposure is safe.
3. Asbestos was once used in more than 3,000 consumer products.
4. It can be found in many older homes, schools, factories, and commercial buildings5. Asbestos exposure is still the LEADING CAUSE of occupational cancer in the US.
6. United States Veterans are at the greatest risk. 
7. Asbestos is still not banned in the US.
8. Mesothelioma can be caused by secondary exposure.

To learn more about the disease, visit: http://www.mesothelioma.com/mesothelioma

FINISH LINE: Clarence & Shirley Woelfel - Renal Cell Carcinoma and Malignant Melanoma

Clarence & Shirley Woelfel

Sept 28, 1927-Oct 12, 2008 / Aug 30, 1932-Oct 17, 2007

Clarence and Shirley are my mother's uncle and aunt.

This is their story, as told by their son and my mother's cousin, Gene:

     The plaque hanging outside of the UW Madison Cancer clinic reads “We fondly remember those that have gone before us.  Their courage and their strength are our beacon.”  For more than 4 years, appointment after appointment, good news, bad news, inconclusive results, operations, chemotherapy and the like, we witnessed both of our parent’s courageously battle cancer and related afflictions.

     We always knew our mother was a very strong woman.  She fought her battle with Malignant Melanoma with the strength and courage that we had never seen before.  When she was told that she had Melanoma, she set out to make a quilt for every one of her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Mom and Dad worked together as one to create each of the patch quilts. She accomplished her goal while going to UW Madison Cancer Clinic for appointments, surgeries, and treatments. She also had to make time to go to our father’s appointments. He was diagnosed with Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma. The support my parents gave each other through their battles with cancer was an inspiration to our entire family.
     Mom passed on October 17, 2007. Three hundred and sixty days later Dad passed. He was laid to rest next to the love of his life on October 17, 2008.

Make a donation in memory of Clarence and Shirley and others we have lost, those still fighting, and those who may one day be spared this fight because of what we‘re doing. 
Give to make yourself a part of this historical effort. 

Visit: http://www.firstgiving.com/fundraiser/andreavorpahl/stridingforacure

It's the final count down!

Less than 24 hours away from the marathon and... I am FREAKING OUT! Instead of being "cool as a cucumber," I'm more like a squirrel on acid. My heart is racing, my hands are shaking, and I can't concentrate. I'm sure the pot of coffee I drank doesn't help either.

For those of you requesting a picture of what I'll be wearing tomorrow, here you go!

So how exactly am I going to run 26.2 miles?...

1.  I have my clothes laid out, my bib pinned (I'm #2974...in case you're wondering), after-race bag packed, shoes by the door, watch and iPod charged, Skratch set out, fuel belt loaded, coffee maker ready, and three alarms set (just in case!)  I know I'm going to have trouble sleeping tonight, but at least I won't lay awake  making a mental list of all the things I need to do in the morning. 

 2.  "Run with your heart."  This is the mantra I've used during training and what I'm sticking with for the marathon.  For those of you wondering, "What the heck is a mantra?"-  a mantra is sounds, syllables, words or groups of words that are repeated with the goal of creating a positive transformation; a sacred thought or a prayer.  I chose this mantra for a couple reasons:

     A. If you've ever practiced yoga, you've heard the phrase, "Open your heart."  It means expanding and opening the chest by pulling the shoulders down and back, slightly lifting the chin, and looking up.  When I do this, my posture improves and I end up running with my chest - or heart -  first. I find it helps me breathe easier and lengthens my stride.
     B. I know my legs will get tired, but the encouragement and inspiration I've received from my patients, family, friends, coworkers, and new acquaintances will bring me to the finish line.  Their stories, memories, and words I hold dearly in my heart and I think of them often.  They are my angels and I know they'll be by my side every step of the way (and if I'm really lucky, they'll let me draft off of them.. :)  

3. Have faith!  I have been training for 18 weeks.  I have logged over 380 miles and 66 hours of running.  I have done everything I possibly can to be ready for tomorrow.  Now, I just need to take a deep breath and believe in myself. 

GOALS:
1. FINISH!  And let's be clear... not finishing, is NOT an option.  I am incredibly stubborn, so if I have to crawl my way to the finish line, so be it!  Being a first-timer, I do not care about my race time (or dignity, for that matter)... I just really want to cross that finish line. I can't wait to put that medal around my neck and know that I DID IT! 

2. ENJOY the experience.  This marathon is a celebration that caps off months of hard work training and fundraising for Cancer Research institute.  I'm really looking forward to seeing my family and friends in the crowd and hope seeing will give me a surge of energy.  Besides, research says smiling releases feel-good chemicals in the brain and it's really tough to stay in a bad mood when you're smiling.  :)

... see you tomorrow! 

MILE 26: Ray Gleisner - Adenocarcinoma

Ray Gleisner

July 1, 1939 - September 24, 2013

Ray and his wife, Faye

Ray's story, as written by his son, Bob and his daughter-in-law, Laura.  

     In the summer of 2013, Ray began experiencing double vision and a loss of balance. In early August, doctors thought he had two small strokes.  Further testing revealed he had Adenocarcinoma of the brain, lung and liver...but they were not able to find the source of the cancer.  Undeterred, he went through 10 full-brain radiation treatments.  Unfortunately the cancer progressed rapidly.  He had to be hospitalized within a few days of completing the radiation and passed away five days later.  While in the hospital, he was able to visit with all of his brothers and sisters, children, grandchildren, great grand-children, most of his god-children, and a number of friends. 

     Raymond J Gleisner, age 74, of Dodgeville, passed away peacefully on September 24, 2013.  Ray served 22 years in the Armed Forces, 12 years in the Air Force and 10 years in the Army Reserves where he retired as a First Sergeant.  He was a member of American Legion Post 97, VFW Post 7345, and Chapter 4 of the Wisconsin Vietnam Vets.  Ray retired from Hennessey Implement where he worked as a farm implement mechanic for many years. He enjoyed spending time with his family and friends as well as sharing jokes and stories.  In addition Ray and his wife Faye enjoyed camping, flea markets and taking long drives in the country. 

     

Bob and Laura added, "The spirits of those you are honoring through this run will no doubt sustain you in your journey. Those who have battled cancer fought through some challenging times. Imagine them by your side, cheering you on."

Make a donation in memory of Ray and others we have lost, those still fighting, and those who may one day be spared this fight because of what we‘re doing. 
Give to make yourself a part of this historical effort. 

Visit: http://www.firstgiving.com/fundraiser/andreavorpahl/stridingforacure

MILE 25: Marvin Heeler - Thyroid, Prostate, and Bladder Cancer

Marvin Heeler

June 29, 1919 - July 25, 2007

Marvin is my brother-in-law's grandpa.

Marvin's family shared these words about him:

     Marvin first noticed a lump on his neck just after he turned 80.  After getting it checked out, he found out he had thyroid cancer. The prognosis was good, and after surgery to remove the lump he was cancer free for a few years.  By age 83 he was having prostate problems and upon checks with his doctors he was diagnosed with prostate cancer.  He had surgery to remove the prostate, had chemo treatments, and was given a great chance to remain cancer free. Such was not the case, as within a year he was hospitalized for a bladder infection. What was thought to be an infection turned out to be bladder cancer.  He again underwent surgery and more chemo treatment. Although the surgery was successful, the doctors now realized the chance of remaining cancer free was minimal. And sure enough, within a year Marv developed a skin rash on his belly area. At first he thought the rash was from a reaction to new pajamas he had just started wearing. As a result he waited a few weeks before seeking medical attention. By the time he saw his doctor again the rash had spread to a large portion of his body and he was in constant pain. The diagnosis that cancer had returned was not unexpected. At this time Marv was in his late 80’s and treatment options at that age were limited. The doctors were very up-front with Marv telling him exactly what his options were. Marv had a lot to do in life yet and his mind was as sharp as ever, so he did not want to give in to cancer or move into assisted living or hospice care. But he also realized that Lucille, his wife of 50+ years, could no longer provide the care he needed at home. Marv finally agreed to be put into hospice care, but was adamant that if he improved he would get to go home. After three weeks in hospice care he finally succumbed to the cancer and related health issues.

     If there is one thing our family learned about dealing with cancer it is to seek advice from as many different sources as possible; be aggressive in questioning medical providers as to alternative care and treatment options; and finally, seek second opinions if possible.

The Mile 25 was chosen because that is the birthday (February 25, 2010) of Marvin’s first great-grandson, Weston Heeler, who everyone in Marvin’s family says Weston looks like.

Make a donation in memory of Marvin and others we have lost, those still fighting, and those who may one day be spared this fight because of what we‘re doing. 
Give to make yourself a part of this historical effort. 

Visit: http://www.firstgiving.com/fundraiser/andreavorpahl/stridingforacure

MILE 24: Ronald Buechel - Prostate Cancer

Ronald J. Buechel
April 3, 1930 - January 17, 2012

Ronald is the father of my parents' good friend, Dan.  

Here is what Dan shared about his dad:

     
     My father was a very simple man and truly wasn't the kind of person who appreciated being in the spot light.  He was diagnosed in April 2011 with prostate cancer.  He was treated with 40 radiation treatments.  Additional diagnosis was bone cancer but was far too along for treatment.

Make a donation in memory of Ronald and others we have lost, those still fighting, and those who may one day be spared this fight because of what we‘re doing. 
Give to make yourself a part of this historical effort. 

Visit: http://www.firstgiving.com/fundraiser/andreavorpahl/stridingforacure

MILE 23: Sandy Scott - Lung Cancer

Sandy Scott
December 18, 1960 - November 26, 2005

Sandy & Jessica

Sandy is the mother of my friend, Jessica. 

Jessica shared these words about her mom:
   

     When we first realized something was wrong with my mom, we were at my cousin’s wedding shower in Madison in February 2004.  At the party, she kept bumping into walls and other objects, but the real concern was when we were driving home.  We went to merge onto the highway and she didn’t see the car next to us and almost ended up hitting it.   When we got home we figured out that her peripheral vision was going.  It took a long 5 days and many different doctor appointments including:  eye doctor, primary doctor and finally an oncologist, but by the end of the week we finally had an answer that changed our lives forever.  

     We found out that my mom was diagnosed with lung cancer that metastasized to her brain and lymph nodes.  My mom had a cough for several months prior to losing her peripheral vision, but we thought nothing of it until she started losing her vision.  At that time, my mom was diagnosed at a stage 4 with 3 months to live (as I found out after my mom passed).  She fought hard having many treatments of chemotherapy and radiation, tried gamma-knife radiation, and MANY medications, but it finally took over 1 year and 9 months later.  She passed away on November 26, 2005.  

     The entire experience was life changing and completely new and expected for a teenager.  I tried to take everything in stride and help my mom out as much as I could because I had no idea how much time we had together.  Don’t get me wrong, I cried many nights thinking that my mom won’t be their when I graduate college, be by my side at my wedding, or give me the advice as I have my own children, but I knew I had to be her rock through all those tough times.  Since my mom has passed, my life has taken my turns and gone up and down my hills.  I have had times of great depression and sorrow, and times of great joy, but I can certainly say my mom has had a huge influence on who I am and who I want to be as I grow.  I know she is always with me and will guide me through my future journeys. 

Jessica chose Mile 23 for her mom, because:  "although you may 'hit the wall,' keep striding and pushing yourself to the finish (even though your mind may play tricks on you.) Nothing can stop you from pursuing your dream of finishing a marathon and helping many in the process - just like I will never stop pursuing my dreams after my mom passed away.  Just remember, you are going to have good and bad days of training and miles throughout the marathon, but each day/mile is a blessing, so use all of those inspiring individuals to push you through. God bless and good luck!"

Make a donation in memory of Sandy and others we have lost, those still fighting, and those who may one day be spared this fight because of what we‘re doing. 

Give to make yourself a part of this historical effort. 

Visit: http://www.firstgiving.com/fundraiser/andreavorpahl/stridingforacure

MILE 22: Grandpa Steffes - Bladder Cancer

David Steffes

December 31, 1934 - January 22, 2006

David's story, as told by his wife and my Grandma, Marjorie Steffes:   

     
     His cancer started with pain in the lower groin area, frequent trips to the bathroom, and bladder infections.  He was tested for prostate problems, but instead they discovered a tumor in the bladder.  He started chemo treatments and had many rounds with the hope that it would shrink the tumor.  It didn't work, and on December 19, 2004, they removed his bladder.  He had a small urine reservoir surgically created that allowed him to drain the collected urine.  However, this did not stop him from working part-time or golfing.

     Things were okay for awhile, but then problems with the colon started.  After many tests, it was determined that the tumor had invaded the colon and he underwent more chemo treatments.  Again, the hope was that the tumor would shrink.  And again, it didn't.  On August 31, his colon was also removed.  He then had two ostomies - one for his urine and one for his stool.  Things were not easy, but he was very receptive and we were very hopeful.  
     Sadly, the problems only continued.  A doctor discovered that his carotid artery was almost entirely blocked, but he would not operate out of fear of an immediate stroke.  He wanted David to finish his remaining 2 or 3 cancer treatments before they would stent the artery.  Unfortunately, he never got to finish those chemo treatments because while at home, he suffered a stroke and was taken to Calumet Medical by ambulance.  After several days he transferred to Holy Family in Manitowoc for more intense treatments.  He could not speak or eat on his own.  While there, he had a heart attack and was transferred into the Intensive Care Unit.  Family stayed by his side until on January 22, 2006, he passed away.  His ultimate cause of death was sepsis, an infection that invaded his entire body and took advantage of his immunocompromised state.  
     We enjoyed 31 years of married life.  He was a great husband and step-father to my four children, who were all teenagers at the time of our marriage.  
     We must always be grateful for each day in our lives.  

My Grandpa passed away on January 22, so he will represent Mile 22. 

Make a donation in memory of David and others we have lost, those still fighting, and those who may one day be spared this fight because of what we‘re doing. 

Give to make yourself a part of this historical effort. 

Visit: http://www.firstgiving.com/fundraiser/andreavorpahl/stridingforacure