oh, pain relief can be HUGE!
congrats on getting a bit of relief Leroy!

Sent by Jenn | 7:54 AM ET | 12-19-2007

Leroy, Would you tell me what you were able to find over the counter for your pain? I think we might all be interested and I would certainly give it a try. Thanks.

Sent by Sally Conway | 7:58 AM ET | 12-19-2007

CONGRATULATIONS LEROY! That is wonderful. Sometimes the simplest solutions are those that allude us and make us more frustrated. Even OTC medications can be beneficial in chronic pain.

NOW GET SOME WELL DESERVED REST! Don't over do it just because you are feeling better.

Sent by Sue Chap | 8:02 AM ET | 12-19-2007

Leroy,

I had the same experience. Unbearbable pain after my thoracic surgery. It hurt so much, talking brought tears to my eyes. Nothing really worked until my surgeon suggested advil. It was amazing. I am sorry I never suggested it to you. Sometimes i still get that pain some 11 months later. Two advil and it goes away for weeks. It gets better. Keep the faith. Pat Sclafani

Sent by Pat Sclafani | 8:03 AM ET | 12-19-2007

Amazing what another day will bring! Keep on going, Leroy.

Sent by Pat Z | 8:04 AM ET | 12-19-2007

Yeah!!! What wonderful news! You have made my day!

Sent by Jen | 8:05 AM ET | 12-19-2007

Leroy, that's a score I like!

Best to all for some good, pain-free holidays!

Sent by Marilyn | 8:07 AM ET | 12-19-2007

YAHOO! Santa came early!

Sent by Susan | 8:31 AM ET | 12-19-2007

Good news.

I hope that today it's, "Leroy 2 Pain 0"

Sent by Michael Brownholtz | 8:37 AM ET | 12-19-2007

I knew there had to be a reason to get out of bed today! It was so I could hear some good news! I'm so happy and relieved for you! That chronic pain can just suck all the joy out of living. Glad you're feeling better.

Sent by Karole Ives | 8:39 AM ET | 12-19-2007

Awesome! Talk about living one day at a time...and thank God for a more comfortable one day at a time for now.

Sent by Leslie Erickson | 8:52 AM ET | 12-19-2007

I'm singing over your news! Don't know if this is related, but, there's a neurologist at Johns Hopkins who advocates treating migraine headaches in the same fashion. (I read about him in an NPR interview.) It worked for me too!

Wishing you more days with rapidly diminishing pain.

Sent by Sheara | 8:52 AM ET | 12-19-2007

Today's comment resonated with me. Although the pain I experienced throughout my treatments (and before I was diagnosed) doesn't sound as bas as yours, it is true that the slightest change or lessening of pain strengthens one's spirits! Before cancer, who would have thought such small things could make such a difference. Thank you for sharing with us. You give me courage!

Sent by Susan | 8:55 AM ET | 12-19-2007

Wonderful, wonderful Leroy!! Such encouraging words. Yes, pain can take all the Joy out of your life and try to make you KNEEL. But you didn't and won't do it. For all you go through, you never lose the "brightness" of your mind, and that is so great. I have been following PBS's series on the Brain and it's mysteries. It is a fascinating series and I am learning much about what occured in my head last April when I suffered the mild stroke which has taken so much of my vision. I am learning what happened to me and why I experienced those "lights" and "patterns" for the first days following the attack. I had thought it may have been because I was an artist and maybe had those colorful patterns, etc, all stored in my mind.
Our minds are so facinating and I know Leroy, that you must be reaching and searching back into yours and recovering the amazing things that are stored there. So very glad that you are better!!

Sent by J C R | 8:55 AM ET | 12-19-2007

Hang on Leroy. My prayers are with you.
You are incredible !!!
God Bless...
Nova

Sent by Nova | 8:55 AM ET | 12-19-2007

This is great news!! Continuing to try the various drugs and combinations until you find the one that works for you is often the key.

This seems to be true, in your case, for your pain. I also subscribe to this approach in trying to combat cancer. What works for me does not work for you even though our cancers appear to be identical. I believe that at the molecular level, our so-called identical cancers, are unique and that accounts for the differences in responses from patient to patient. If the "garage guys" could only identify why this is so and how to treat these differences then we could reasonably expect the same response in patients with the same type of cancer treated with the same drug or drugs. Wishful thinking perhaps but nevertheless, it is my hope.

Hope that the reduction in your pain continues and that good restorative sleep will be your new normal.

Sent by Al Cato | 9:02 AM ET | 12-19-2007

I met you on the TV special with Mr. Koppel(great production). I myself am a lung cancer survivor and I immediately became an admirer and supporter in your journey. Each morning I look forward to reading your words so eloguently and truthfully written. I'm sure I can speak for many others in saying that you have touched my heart and made a difference in my life. Bless you and thanks for sharing.

Sent by mary anne | 9:03 AM ET | 12-19-2007

Great news! Have some seasonal chocolate!

Sent by MT | 9:04 AM ET | 12-19-2007

Leroy, what great news. A bit of relief even in its smallest amount is still victorious. My prayers are with you that more victories lie ahead. Happy holidays!

Sent by Jen McGeorge - Boston | 9:05 AM ET | 12-19-2007

Leroy, I had a very similar experience when I was in the hospital in June for my reconstructive surgery. The opiate and narcotic pain meds had given me a massive migraine - hurt so much I could barely talk. The pain from the surgery was non-existent in comparison to the migraine. I told my doctor that Excedrin usually did the trick, but (ironically) the hospital didn't have any! After my husband brought some from home, my migraine went away within 30 minutes. And I felt human again. So today, I think I know just how you feel, and I am so happy for you. We will all keep our fingers crossed that it keeps working.

Sent by Gretchen Hoag | 9:17 AM ET | 12-19-2007

I hear a collective sigh of relief knowing that our friend and mentor is feeling just a bit better today!!! YIPPEE.....

Sent by Karen | 9:26 AM ET | 12-19-2007

What a splendid gift to know you feel better than yesterday, and how humbling to realize you'd not had that feeling for some while. Yes! this day is yours! May you have many feel-better days, Dear and Valiant Heart Leroy! Please convey a big hug to Laurie too from all of us for making this journey with you.

Sent by Sarah | 9:31 AM ET | 12-19-2007

Dear Leroy,

Great News!

I told you God loved you, and so do we! So glad you're feeling better.

Prayers for comfort and healing for you and everyone.

Sent by Connie E. | 9:31 AM ET | 12-19-2007

Terrific news. Have a cookie or several and enjoy today like a dessert.

Sent by anne lumberger | 9:35 AM ET | 12-19-2007

As my mother always says, "There's nothing like food when you're hungry." There's also nothing like relief when one is in pain. I'm sure that your Christmas will all the brighter for the comfort and joy of not being suffering as you've been. It's a consummation devoutly to be wished. All the best to everyone who reads this blog. "God bless us everyone."

Sent by Nancy K. Clark | 9:41 AM ET | 12-19-2007

Yahoooo.. nothing like starting the day with good news. Bless your heart, Leroy.. Hope it's the simple fix you've been looking for.

Sent by Sharon | 9:49 AM ET | 12-19-2007

Great news - everything is so much better when you don't have to deal with pain. I became an absolute witch when didn't take my pain medicine on time. Don't worry about complaining - we understand and share in your joy as well as your pain.

Sent by Vicki (FL) | 9:57 AM ET | 12-19-2007

I'm glad to hear your pain is gone. I remember waking up opening one eye first and surveying the "land" to see how I was feeling. It was always such a nice surprise to feel good and open the second one and smile.

Sent by Lisa | 9:58 AM ET | 12-19-2007

leroy, i've been mulling over since yesterday that you find cancer worse than summary execution in Latin America, which you faced in your news job. i feel the opposite. i think it is hard for me to imagine a worse death than summary execution (for no reason or stupid reasons) with no chance whatsoever to examine one's death or a chance to lead the "examined life" prior to death. i know those of you in the news business are rather blase about the risks you undertook but for those of us not in that business, it is quite a horrifying idea. i don't like being a cancer patient but at least it is a kind of violence that i can wrap my mind around whereas summary execution in latin america, i cannot. it is likewise hard for me to imagine a worse death than daniel pearlman's and the thoughts left with his survivors. so all in all, yes, i will take cancer over summary execution in these hostile places! congrats on finding a pain reliever that worked. carol

Sent by carol irvin | 10:05 AM ET | 12-19-2007

I am happy for you Leroy, I hope the pain continues to diminish. Wishing you a happy, comfortable day. Love liz

Sent by liz | 10:11 AM ET | 12-19-2007

Today is yours, yours, all yours!

Though I regret to say that today I will be going to the funeral of a young woman who died of breast cancer. She leaves two young daughters in elementary school, and a husband of thirteen years.

My cancer is chronic and incurable, but I count my blessings that I can probably look forward to several more years with my family. This is just so sad. When one thinks one has it bad, there is always somebody who has it worse.

Sent by Ruth from Virginia | 10:17 AM ET | 12-19-2007

HURRAY! What is the name of the OTC drug that worked for you?

Sent by Ruth White | 10:31 AM ET | 12-19-2007

AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!! WOOOO HOOOO!

XO

Lori

Sent by Lori | 10:37 AM ET | 12-19-2007

YES!!!

I want to echo a comment from yesterday - you are my hero too. Thank you thank you thank you for giving of your self so generously here. You may never know how many you have helped by sharing your insights in a way that only you are perfectly suited to do. Bless you for being here, bless you for caring.

I continue to pray for your complete healing so you can continue to inspire others for the rest of your very long and blessed life.

Sent by Nichole in FL | 10:45 AM ET | 12-19-2007

I'd like to think getting on my knees for you yesterday and praying did work. But whatever worked, thank God!! Have a wonderful holiday!!

Sent by DiAnn | 10:50 AM ET | 12-19-2007

you have turned a page....a better story unfolds...keep on keeping on...you are a great inspiration to all.

Sent by ruth | 10:54 AM ET | 12-19-2007

Yes! We have all been waiting to hear this good news from you. Enjoy every moment of relief you get.

Sent by Laurel M. Jones | 10:54 AM ET | 12-19-2007

Hooray!! I would imagine that at this point, just feeling better than you did five minutes ago is a victory.

Sent by Marilyn Trujillo | 10:57 AM ET | 12-19-2007

GO Leroy! What great news.

Sent by Mollie | 11:11 AM ET | 12-19-2007

I too found that Ibuprophen worked where the prescription drugs did nothing but make me sleepy. Granted it was for sciatic pain not anywhere near what you are dealing with. Only proviso was kidney damage is I took too much so I'm trying to be cautious.

Sent by Susan Sawatzky | 11:28 AM ET | 12-19-2007

Jackpot ! Keep the faith, it's only going to get better !

Sent by Allison Wilson | 11:44 AM ET | 12-19-2007

Have you tried Vicodin?

Sent by Kathy | 11:53 AM ET | 12-19-2007

Leroy,

Well, THANK GOD!! I was absolutely ecstatic when I read your post this morning. I think all of us have "heart" pain when you hurt physically. Mine's gone today.

Sent by Diana Kitch | 12:17 PM ET | 12-19-2007

Hooray!

Sent by Diane | 12:19 PM ET | 12-19-2007

Three thoractomies now (cut through the lats, break a rib).. nine months after my last one, what do I take for pain? Ibuprofen. Prescription painkillers were needed post-op, but didn't work after I was healed.

Recently I've tried some acupuncture to deal with some chronic pain issues (related to the thoracotomies and earlier abdominal and leg surgery) and have had good results (so far, knock on wood) - feeling better than I have in months. I highly recommend trying it.. persistent pain drains away your reserves, and makes everything just a little bit harder. It is a relief just to feel better, even if you don't feel good.

Sent by Hans Lipke | 12:35 PM ET | 12-19-2007

Great news! My father was diagnosed with Stage 4 Colorectal cancer last March. I just wrote a blog post that will provide a little holiday inspiration to anyone who has LIVED with the disease, or supports someone who is living with it. Here's the link if you'd like to check it out: http://papercutstar.wordpress.com/

Sent by Star Borner | 12:46 PM ET | 12-19-2007

I was so happy to read your blog today. Pain sucks. But it feels so good when it lets up a little. Thank goodness that finally happened for you.

Sent by N.R. | 12:48 PM ET | 12-19-2007

I much prefer Motrin (alternated with Tylenol at times) for pain relief than any of the prescription pain killers. They make me so nauseous and "loopy" feeling.

Sent by Vicky (NY) | 1:02 PM ET | 12-19-2007

Hi Leroy-- Pain stinks. I am so glad for your reprieve-- my heart sings with joy for you.
Jean

Sent by Jean | 1:27 PM ET | 12-19-2007

Good ! May it continue.

Not writing often, but thinking of you and reading every day.

Sent by Jack Burrington | 1:48 PM ET | 12-19-2007

That's great news Leroy. Take one day at a time and enjoy that "feel good" feeling.

Sent by Teresa in WV | 2:01 PM ET | 12-19-2007

It's great that you found the right drug. I had a big thoracic procedure (twice) where I was basically filleted like a salmon.

The "gold standard" pain medication just gave me a stomach ache and little pain relief. After a little experimentation, the less effective alternative worked fantastic and made a world of difference.

I feel like I learned two things about pain management, the drugs that work are an individual thing and it's best not to listen to the hype about various drugs, try different things and see what works. Second, pain really does have a tipping point, if you get a certain measure of relief, the scales tip and life gets much, much better. This might be a tiny change in medication.

jeff

Sent by Jeff | 2:43 PM ET | 12-19-2007

Leroy, just checking in again and hoping that your day is continuing to improve. Gretchen has the right idea I believe. We know our own bodies best and sometimes something as simple as a tablet of Exedrin will do the trick! May it be so in your case. Maybe just too much medications and drugs. Keep up the great work!

Sent by J C R | 2:49 PM ET | 12-19-2007

Whohoo! I am so happy for you. Sometimes life pops up with a little surprise, doesn't it? Acetaminophen worked better for me than opiates when I had bone pain. Go figure! I am so glad you are not in such a pain fog as before.

Sent by Alycia Keating | 2:57 PM ET | 12-19-2007

Elival, an old/tested antidepressant, works well for some kinds of deep or post-surgical pain. After gallbladder surgery it was the only thing that worked for a pain that went all the way through my body, front to back. None of the other prescriptions worked. Best to you. Ann

Sent by Ann Harmon | 3:38 PM ET | 12-19-2007

Good Afternoon Leroy, Laurie and All,

Leroy, Best news I've heard from you in quite some time. Welcome back to the sunshine and hope those dark clouds are gone for good! Enjoy your freedom to roam around, gingerly of course!

Laurie, Did I hear a big sigh of relief from you? Us too!

To All, It's so nice to share good news! Sure makes everything look so much better. Smiles all around!!

God Bless.

Eileen Pruyne
Charlotte, NC

Sent by Eileen Pruyne | 3:46 PM ET | 12-19-2007

Wow Leroy~~~Great news!! You faced more than your share so this makes me very very happy. : )

Keep on trucking Leroy!!
Warm hugs
Robin T

Sent by Robin T | 5:27 PM ET | 12-19-2007

Dear Leroy,

So glad to hear that you pain has subsided. Hopefully, you will be able to fully enjoy the holiday. Take care and may God bless us all during this holiday season.

Sent by sasha | 5:54 PM ET | 12-19-2007

Awesome news today...keep fighting...!!!

Sent by Laurie Hirth | 6:40 PM ET | 12-19-2007

Sometimes the pain meds can be worse than the condition they are intended to treat. Anticipating some major orthopedic surgery in January, I have been exploring alternatives (this will be my 24th and 25th surgery, so I know pain meds). Movement always works, even if you don't think you can. Then I'm trying hypnotherapy and massage. Good luck!

Sent by Sarah | 6:50 PM ET | 12-19-2007

HOORAY!!!!!!!!!!! Best news I've heard all day, Leroy.

Sent by Amy | 8:26 PM ET | 12-19-2007

I am writing in for my aunt who is seeking suggestions for medical treatments for advanced metastasis in the liver and neck lymph nodes.

Sent by Britt. S | 9:14 PM ET | 12-19-2007

Such great news! Frankly, I was worried. You need to be able to sleep, and constant, intense pain prevents that. Your body needs sleep in order to heal itself. Yayyyyy!

Sent by Victoria Ferreira | 10:30 PM ET | 12-19-2007

Oh, Leroy, that is the BEST news I've heard all day. All week. All the last couple of weeks, for that matter.

Sounds so trite to type 'I feel your pain,' but I do--I've been dealing with chronic pain since January. I know how draining it can be, and how wonderful those (relatively) pain-free moments can seem when you can catch them. So keep your hands up, Leroy, and keep trying to catch those pain-free moments. I'll be keeping my fingers crossed for you.

Pat

Sent by Pat Steer | 10:46 PM ET | 12-19-2007

Dear Leroy,
We are so happy that you have some improvement in the pain. May it continue and grow!
Fond regards,
Radha

Sent by Radha Speer | 11:22 PM ET | 12-19-2007

Thanks Leroy for such fun news. Make hay while the sun shines.

Sent by linda h. | 12:30 AM ET | 12-20-2007

Hooray, Leroy!
I am so glad to hear you are feeling better. Any improvement is much appreciated.
Best wishes to all,
Judith

Sent by Judith Newkirk | 1:39 AM ET | 12-20-2007

Hello.
I have been following your posts for several months and, though I don't have cancer, I have had very similar health challenges with very look-alike details: the blood tests, the hospital stay, the tubes, the "death sentences" that doctors sometimes like to use to get us to do what they think is right when we ourselves just aren't sure or don't know or are simply terrified and overwhelmed by what is happening to and around and through us. My paid right now is not physical, thank goodness, but rather emotional, the feeling that I've lost the emotional support of someone very important in my life, and naturally there is no pill that will help me get over that one, and its persistence has me waking up every morning in tears. I am moved by your recent progress, especially in finding something that begins to alleviate your pain, that helps you get your mind off it for a while and lets you contemplate other things. At least in my emotional state I can distract myself with other chores and indeed, the pain is less and less. I hope this becomes true in your case. Thanks so much for sharing your experience with all of us.

Sent by revel | 3:17 AM ET | 12-20-2007

That is very, very good news indeed. Here's wishing for even less pain in the coming days and weeks. I have all my fingers crossed, tightly.

Sent by L.Wieland | 5:03 AM ET | 12-20-2007

hi there.....seems to be many things people have in common. i have been reading your newsletters after i accidentally heard about you and have also experienced many of the feelings you have expressed. i, too, have just come off of pain killers and am trying to find over the counter alternatives after having lobectomy surgery as a result of cancer. advil or motrin have been mentioned...can you tell me what you have found successful? best wishes for the holiday season to you and your family. being together is the best gift of all. sincerely connie

Sent by connie | 2:42 PM ET | 12-20-2007

Woo hoo!!!

Sent by sara | 11:00 PM ET | 12-20-2007

Leroy-
You have been an inspiration. My best lesson learned from you is if ever stopped at a roadblock never get down on your knees. You don't and it is amazing.
Bless you.

Sent by Carla | 9:50 AM ET | 02-08-2008