Category: surviving cancer

The Greatest

Joanne Dragun, M.D.1 Comment

If you’ve visited a doctor’s office or ER, you may have been asked: “Why are you here today? What’s wrong with you?” (??)!! What a way to start a conversation!

Regardless the ailment, when you are seen in any medical office, you are handed paperwork to fill out listing all of your afflictions. This week I read through an orthopedic surgeon’s consult that, due to electronic medical records, was 13 pages long. It detailed everything about this patient, Mr. Pratt, from birth to present. Three small words near the end said, “No surgery needed”. What I found amazing is that in the report no where did it list anything that was right and good with this patient who unfortunately was diagnosed with prostate cancer in his bones.

The consult carefully crafted, didn’t say that up until this new pain, Mr. Pratt played golf, ran a business, was a terrific grandfather, married 50 years, volunteered at his church, looked after his also aging neighbors, had coached his son’s soccer team, taught his daughter to drive a stick shift, boogie boarded in the ocean with his grandson and thousands of other personal history items not found written anywhere in Mr. Pratt’s detailed report. But aren’t those the aspects of life that are really important? In the cancer center we analyze every minutia in records and films that is abnormal. Always looking for the dis-ease. Sure we are there to fix the abnormality but we can forget the good in the history, the real reasons Mr. Pratt is seeking care.

I recall the shock when Mohammad Ali described himself- such conceit, and pride. He made it his identity. Now so many years later, if you say “the greatest” the champ still comes to mind. There is nothing wrong with acknowledging our own strengths. Unfortunately, if you or a loved one are ill, all the focus shifts to the sickness. Everything else is forgotten until this one abnormal thing (such as cancer) is fixed.

May I suggest that you take a few minutes to define yourself? You have strength, wisdom and life experiences. Give yourself your own pat on the back everyday. Don’t let illness or injury define you. If you care for someone who is ill, then help to give them the dialogue. Remind them of how special and talented they are. Not just “I love you” but the why. That is the heart of the support. Don’t forget yourself. Look in the mirror everyday and remind yourself who you really are.

“Doc, I thought I was going to die. I was so scared”. Fear made the situation worse. Now with treatment, Mr. Pratt can get back to all that he loves and truly makes him great. Stronger in mind, body and spirit. He is able to face more challenges to come, not letting his identity be lost in the struggle.

This is what you deserve. Really seeing strengths behind the affliction. Then reaching out and helping you to reach within and gain control. Cancer physicians work feverishly to deliver the knockout punch to cancer. When we offer the hand to help our patients up from the mat- that is where the real healing resides.

Tell yourself everyday that you are the greatest. You deserve that identity too….because you are.

Just say “No thank you”

Joanne Dragun, M.D.6 Comments

First off, ‘no’ is not a four letter word. I recall the grades in Catholic elementary school. One was for obedience. There were many parents incredulous when their errant child came home with an ‘A” as they double checked the name on the report card. They’re often obstinate child seemed perfectly capable of following orders- just not at home! Anyone over fifty recalls when obedience to authority was valued and we feel guilty not complying with the norm. So, let me give you new permission. Saying ‘no’ is not defiant or selfish. In healthcare, decisions must conform with your own values, needs and vision for your life.

As a doc we say “treat” or “get tested” or often we just set you up for this craziness without asking. It’s a “trust me we know what’s best for you” mentality and you may be tempted to fall in line to get the coveted “A”. But treating cancer and all disease should come with life options, not just treatment options. Sure therapies have changed but more remarkably the decisions have too. Patients in the ’90’s would sometimes say, “Whatever you think, Doc”. Now they come with reams of web information. But here is what I find interesting: People are taking control of their therapy, not just with information but by bringing into the plan their own unique perspective and needs.

“Doc if I cannot be cured, I will not use our retirement savings for treatment. My wife has longevity in her family and could live another twenty years. I cannot leave her broke.” Mr. James has a point about consuming resources. Carlos has a great life here in the states and regularly sends money home to Honduras. “I can still work so if you could just help me survive as long as possible, it’s not for me but it’s good for my family”.

Even small issues are on the table: Sandra will not agree to a chemo that causes hair loss before her grandson’s wedding. “Its going to be the last time many of them see me so I have to look spectacular!” Elaine is a quilter and refuses the chemo that causes peripheral neuropathy with numbness in her fingers- she’ll accept the hormone therapy but that’s all. For the many patients I care for, it is not about whether they can survive and “do everything”. Often the decisions are about other aspects of life.

My best advice is very simple: If you or a loved one are diagnosed with an illness, listen to the “gold standard of care” from your physicians, do some research and then weigh the pros and cons of going all in vs no or less therapy.

A Doctor’s dictum is to “Do no harm”. I believe this includes encouraging the patients’ decisions, and avoid forcing our own skill and value system on them. Just because I can treat doesn’t mean that I should. Back up a pace, evaluate what is right for you.

If you have a doctor who is dogmatic “my way or the highway”, find someone who really sees you and accepts your role in the process. We don’t pay for your treatment. We don’t go home and care for your children, or help your parent, or spoon feed you grandmother. We don’t work your job and support your family. We are not attending your events when you want to feel well rather than sick with treatment. There is always risk to letting cancer grow, spread and take over your life. BUT there also is risk to saying ‘yes’ to everything.

Always speak up. Never be afraid. Find therapy that matches your own path and physicians who respect your part in the plan. When you are brave, find those who fight- fight- fight for you. When you are tired express that you are done. Live your own life always. Never be bullied even by well meaning doctors or relatives. You have the right to say ‘no’. Its not selfish its self-care. You will never ever be sorry when you are in control. We are all here for you, but only by choosing your own path can you have peace and your own unique wellness. Obedience to your own internal guide always deserves the “A”.

Puppies!

Joanne Dragun, M.D.

The Australian kangaroos and koala bears are capturing our imaginations as the wildfires roar. We feel heartbreak for their helplessness and grateful for the U.S. and international forces rescuing that beloved country.

Elaine arrives for therapy for lung cancer and tells of being moved by the tragedy. “Doc, I was feeling such a strong desire to do something. I wanted to help in some way. Then I realized I still have a power right here. At 78 I thought I was too old to get a new pet, but I got off the sofa, walked out the door. I went to the rescue shelter and adopted a puppy! I felt that he was waiting just for me. Oh my gosh, my husband was shocked when we came into the house, but “Barky” flew into his arms like he was finally home. Oh what joy I cannot tell you!”

Elaine already has her hands full but training a new puppy is a great distraction from her own drama. “I was putting away the Christmas decorations and he just tumbled through the mess and had a gay old time He is so comical we just laugh and laugh”. She tells how the puppy has bonded fiercely with her husband. “Barky doesn’t know that I have cancer, he just expects me to stop everything and pay attention to him. And I do! He doesn’t realize that my husband has Alzheimer’s disease and that sometimes he forgets we have a puppy”.

A new and exciting, fun-filled routine has captured their imaginations and filled their once sad and painful home with renewed life.. I ask to see a picture, but even better her husband is waiting with him in the car. We head to the parking lot and as I peep through the window, both are sound asleep with Barky snoozing on his belly. What a sight. This bundle of joy greets Elaine with wags, licks and adoration and my heart sings with happiness for them.

Elaine was inspired to open her heart and now their lives are changed magically. They are looking for a pet- friendly assisted living since her husband will need more care and she is in her own battle. What joy Barky will bring to others there as well. Who doesn’t fall in love with a furry, wiggly ball of happiness? Barky is a funny name because he is so busy giving attention and cuddles that I haven’t heard him yip once. I am thrilled for Elaine and her bravery in reaching out for renewal instead of giving into the drama of their situation. Both of their immune systems will be boosted by this tiny gift of goodness, and the several daily walks will enrich their togetherness and stamina.

Little puppy, you outshine all the medications, chemo and radiation we can offer. Love does that.

Hope for sale

Joanne Dragun, M.D.

Following Black Friday and Cyber Monday the next shopping enticement is the after Christmas sale. This subject came up as I visited with Beth last week and we discussed the festivities of the holidays. Its been a challenging six months with a diagnosis of pancreatic cancer for this lovely 62 year old. She had great joy visiting with family including several grandchildren- fully aware that next Christmas may be quite different.

“Doc, listen to this: I found a way to express faith that this year will go well for me. I went after- Christmas shopping and bought beautiful cards and ornaments. I especially like the ones with this year’s date because it’s a time I will never forget”. Beth is doing well and her last scan was stable if not improved. “Doc, my sale shopping gave me something tangible. Each time I look into the closet, I will see a sign of my faith”. I ask if I can share her unique idea with others. She said that when she didn’t have strength, she believed there was a mission for her to complete, even if just to inspire others. “I made a decision to write out my cards now for next year. I can enjoy crafting a note of love to my family and friends and if I am unable, then I will ask my husband to mail them next Christmas. Won’t everyone be surprised?!” I thought, what courage!

“After all Doc, what’s the sense of buying something on sale then not using it? That would be throwing money away and I’ve always been thrifty. I often look through my box of treasures and mementos. I like sending something tangible- people aren’t going to store emails for years. As I go through boxes of pictures and reminisce, I pull out pics to tuck into the cards too. What do you think?”

“Beth, every card you send will be a gift to your loved ones, so I agree the idea is wonderful.” Writing good wishes and sending love to others is a clever way for Beth to boost her immune system, perhaps enough for her to mail them herself next year. Never doubt the value of faith and hope. We cannot buy them; we cannot invest in them; and we cannot gift them to someone. We can only feel and believe. Faith and hope are never on sale but always priceless.

2020 Vision

Joanne Dragun, M.D.

“Future is fantasy“, Yogi Caryn softly reminds us to pay attention and be mindful, a requirement to avoid falling over in the balancing poses. Her words resonate and have everything to do with life off the mat. But many of us resist the idea that projecting into the future is fantasy. Isn’t this refreshing new year and decade all about expectations? Are all resolutions flights of fancy? Is it conceit to think we can conjure a future based in desires? 2020 vision is perfection, so it’s exciting to anticipate “seeing” the best in our lives this year.

The lesson from Caryn is that living mindfully now influences the future. Moving toward a vision with passion adds excitement and commitment to our lives. But over investing in tomorrow, steals the present moment.

This 20’s decade provides us with a new starting point. As with any goal, preparation is key to success. While we focus on the year ahead, may we consider the concept that centering our minds prepares us for a better future with clarity? Caryn is encouraging us to be here right now and the benefits will follow. It really is not hard, we can re-train our thinking with meditation. It is a way to control thoughts and help us cultivate a habit of mindfulness.

“Oh Doc, I barely have time to make a meal or do the laundry; you expect me to sit still?” Yes I do. My sister Marie (who is a bundle of energy) thoughtfully gifted me a meditation app and I am taking time to sit quietly everyday, so lets do this together. There are several meditation apps that can guide you toward enhancing your well being far beyond what making a list of wishes can do. It only takes 5 minutes per day.

This new year’s commitment can benefit us the entire year. All those years of making and breaking of resolutions just led to frustration anyway. Let mindfulness be your new steady state and expect greatness to enter your life.

If you need convincing, meditation benefits you because it reduces inflammation in the body which is the root cause of cancer, heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, autoimmune disease, hypertension, dementia and memory loss and so much more. So, doctor’s orders: close your eyes, follow the breath and enjoy a new vision for 2020. You deserve this.

Happy 2020. My vision sees a perfectly wonder-filled year ahead for you.

Angels and Elves

Joanne Dragun, M.D.3 Comments

A brick row home in Philadelphia set the stage for brilliant excitement of the season. Large bulb colorful lights framed a doorway as a beacon of warmth and love. The chubby Douglas Fir tree was tucked into a corner of the living room as space magically appeared to accommodate. A Lionel train chugged thru the carefully and lovingly placed tiny colorful houses lit from within. “Merry Christmas Happy New Year” banner was anchored over the arch into the dining room announcing a welcome to all and a cardboard fireplace in another corner with stockings attached. Relatives arrived regardless the weather, filling the home with love and cheer Christmas Eve and later in the evening an open house began. Mom passed her homemade pizza and Christmas cookies to joyful neighbors and friends who, in this mostly Jewish neighborhood adopted the holiday for the evening.

Twenty years later while working at Fox Chase Cancer Center in Philly, I witnessed a similar phenomenon. The hospital was well loved and developed a wonderful tradition. Permitting as many staff as possible to be home with families on Christmas, it opened its doors to the community for help. Barreling in, long before ugly Christmas sweaters were a thing, the excited Jewish community arrived in festive attire and joyfilled hearts. There were no HIPPA laws so they could help at the nurses stations, the kitchen was buzzing and no one cared if the orders were correct. Two elderly ladies struggled and giggled to work the industrial bucket wringer until they gave up and swiped the sheet from a gurney for a large spill. Men carved the meat in the busy cafeteria as if they were tailgating, the dessert slices were generous and the festive cafeteria gave the doctors, nurses and staff, who were necessary in a busy hospital, a chance to enjoy the excitement.

I cannot tell you how very grateful I am and I want to personally thank everyone who contributes to helping others treasure their holiday time with family. A colleague from Pakistan routinely covers another physician and I have a wonderful Doc caring for patients so I can visit grandchildren. When I was an intern on call and working 100 hours a week, my request for Christmas day off to be home for my sons and husband was ignored. When the schedule came out, tears sprung to my eyes and I could hardly get thru morning report. I was crushed with one more sacrifice; 36 hours on call. It was all just too much. A fellow intern put a hand on my shoulder as we headed out the door. “Joanne, out of 40 of us, you are the only one with children ( I was 12 years older having started school in my thirties) my girlfriend is out of town for Christmas but wants to celebrate New Year’s Eve. Lets switch!” And just like that my own Christmas was saved by a magical 6’4″ elf.

Christmas isn’t just a religious holiday. It holds excitement as children that evolves as we age, to anticipation of togetherness, gifting our hearts and love to each other. The emotions are fierce.

To those who celebrate and those who make it possible, my heartfelt wishes for every blessing. My thanks for your support, hope for those deployed for safe return, health for those who are ill, comfort for those who suffer, food for those hungry and warmth for those who are cold, memories in our heart for those no longer here to celebrate. Love for us all knowing that we are a community of people faithful to each other and God has given us a season to celebrate the miracle of our sacrifices and love.

Happy Hanukkah, Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays. May your every wish come true.

Comfort and Joy

Joanne Dragun, M.D.2 Comments

There is a new trend in holiday gifts. No, not the 72″ plasma TV. Shelves are packed with cozy comfort. Embrace the trend and hopefully find that gifting yourself and others some of these “doctor recommended” items will enrich your holiday, while soothing some “doctor-induced” side effects to treatment.

Oh so hot! Women with breast cancer and men on hormonal therapy suffer with hot flashes even long after menopause. Cooling sheets, pillows and towels are now available, a small fan to place by the bed and even peppermint bath and lotion can cool them down.

Have the tingles? peripheral neuropathy in hands and feet after chemo may be helped with tens units now available (often used for pain- but stimulation works) , foot massagers and hydro baths help too.

Work it out! Following a few weeks of physical therapy, keep the activity going so exercise bands, squeeze balls and rollers are useful.

Pampering is welcome! Certificates for massages, reflexology, scalp stimulation,makeup application and salon services can boost a mood.

Snooze alarm. Physicians are limited in our ability to prescribe pain and sleep aids. I recommend trying CBD oil and creams, chamomile tea, eye masks, meditation apps or CDs and a new favorite: weighted blankets.

On the scent. Scented oil diffusers or essential oils for topical use are calming. Lavender infused wraps and stuffed animals are always appreciated.

Change the mind and the mood. When my mother was not active, my sister gifted her with a beautiful scarf to lay over the blanket and add cheer to the room. Another sister advises continued learning and mind stimulation and with a subscription to “The Great Courses”.

Reminisce. Gifting memories with booklets or albums.

Can’t open a jar? Arthritic issues abound so copper infused compression gloves, knee braces, hot wax hand therapy and hemp infused creams may help.

Applause. Tickets to a show or game shake the doldrums and remind them life goes on.

Comfort food. Any homemade dish or cookies please.

Feel free to add your ideas here to inspire others. We are all about the wellness, but the true gifts of comfort and joy are not my “favorite things”. It is your presence in their lives. That gift is priceless and always the most appreciated.

ps: suggestion: print, highlight favorites and leave for Santa to discover!

Note: If you click the website link URL below, you get to see the adorable picture with each post – love this one!

Break with Tradition

Joanne Dragun, M.D.1 Comment

Do you have some special holiday traditions? Have you found them changing over the years? A comical one in my family for 18 years had us driving our Bichon Frise up and down the East coast to be sure he was part of the festivities. Scooter was worth every effort, but he probably dreaded holidays. When I see cute Christmas napkins with the doggie in the car I know pet lovers understand. What are your traditions now? Often modifications are necessary and can happen quickly.

This week many patients describe their upcoming Thanksgiving plans, some with trepidation. “I need a doctor’s note to get out of it this year. My kids, grand kids, babies and dogs all come into town and I am just not up to it!” I tell Miss Thelma that she can turn her kitchen over to them and just enjoy the visit. A few days later she is excited because she invited another patient who is without family to come to her busy home. “My grandson is going to pick up Mrs. Evans and I can’t wait for her to see my great grandchildren!” A new tradition is forming.

Marco is a big burly man who finished therapy and loves to cook. He just needs someone to cook for. “Doc I feel so blessed because I am done with you (what?) Since my wife died a few years ago and the kids are out of town, I decided to help at the church kitchen this year. I make a mean cornbread stuffing!” Mr. Griffith is handling treatment for prostate cancer very well and since he retired, busy with household renovations. “My wife added a job to my ‘honey-do’ list: make a reservation for Thanksgiving dinner!”

What these and so many other conversations have in common is a break from former customs. Although we love the comfort and familiarity of traditions, holding them too close can result in melancholy for times lost. The people I have the fortune to see have a new perspective with this health battle. Acceptance. Change what you can to still enjoy yourself. Looking forward instead of pining for the “old days” opens us up to many opportunities.

Karen said, “While my husband is deployed and with no family nearby, I am so happy that a few of us wives are getting together. We are all bringing a special dish and ordering the turkey. Thanksgiving sure has changed for me but now I can’t wait!” Since ‘the only constant in life is change’ (Heraclitus), be open to new experiences. You may be surprised how your day can welcome peace when your mind and heart are seeing the world so differently now.

What did cancer teach you? I am sure it was to accept, modify and be grateful. Scooter never could speak up for himself. I bet for all those years he wished he could just stay home but tradition kept us on a path. Changing your routine and customs may come as a relief for you and others, so explore options. It’s your life, your holiday. Be true to your own ability and desire. Be bold to make a new memory or be peaceful and tucked in. Whatever you do is right for you. Since Thanksgiving is about gratefulness, let transformations in your traditions bring you contentment. Life isn’t about the holiday. Its about celebrating you.

Happy Thanksgiving everyone- just remember to make it your own.

Healing words

Joanne Dragun, M.D.

“Doc, I want your opinion. The medical oncologist told me I had a 50-50 chance of beating this. What do you think? ” I am often faced with these conversations but wondered how to help fearful Gertrude who has metastatic disease and is still doing well with aggressive treatment.

“Do you have a coin in your purse?” She pulls out a quarter. “So Gertrude, the other Doc essentially described your survival as a flip of the coin. Why not try it, OK?” First she is dismayed but timidly hands me the quarter. “Here we go, heads you are a survivor and tails you live a good life. Call it!” I says these words so fast and flip quickly before she processes that I didn’t say live or die. It hits the floor and we both look down. “Tails it is! you live a good life!”

Did I negate Gertrude’s concern and misguide her? She is 80 years old, the disease will take its toll and some side effect from it will shorten her life- how long? I don’t know. She keeps tolerating therapy and does well. She already is a survivor so “heads” is right. She can still live a good life so “tails” is as well. Docs shouldn’t be in the business of scaring people to death.

“Gertrude, everyday we each have a zero or 100% risk or hope for survival. No body lives 50% and so as long as you do well, you are living your best life.” Worry and fear will only ruin what time she has left. Careful to not ignore end of life discussions, I often send patients to hospice who are finishing the fight. What I object to is the vagueness of percentages that have no meaning but to insight fear. And so, our little game today gave Gertrude a lift and I am reminded how words can heal. Speech “therapy” comes in all forms. Physicians may hold the tools for wellness but we do not hold the key for life and so for my practice, I refuse to steal what isn’t mine to give or take away.

It is important to think, read and speak healing words over our drama. My best advice is to give yourself 100% chance everyday.

Goal Oriented

Joanne Dragun, M.D.

What goals have your set for yourself? Is one to beat cancer? Probably in there somewhere, but usually our goals are more tangible: get to work, exercise 30 minutes per day, eat healthy. Very simple objectives. If you are on chemo right now, the goal may be to do all of these without being sick.

Every goal starts with an intention then action. Will you choose to set one today? Finish a project or start one? Mix up your routine, sign up for a course, go to a social? What all of these have in common regardless the objective is movement from inertia. “Hey, Doc I have cancer over here-leave me alone!” Remind yourself that you are not living for the cancer, you are living for you.

How about if we make a deal? There are 48 half hours in a day. If you haven’t exercised, then start for 30 minutes. That still leaves you 47 half hours to do other things! When we think about time in this way, it opens so many opportunities. It’s not some enormous commitment. Its 2% of your day.

Out of 1440 minutes in a 24 hour period, 30 is almost nothing, but the impact on you can be everything. Find something enjoyable or challenging. That’s it. Do this for you. When it becomes a part of your routine, find something else for another 30 minutes. It may be as simple as a walk in nature or visiting or calling a friend.

There are many opportunities to enhance your life that cancer has no control over. Take your power back thirty minutes at a time. Watch yourself gain strength. Allow intention to find destination. If you can remember to smile while you do it, even better!

Reminder: Monday is Veteran’s Day. We do not take you for granted. Thank you for your service.