Visiting your blog and your readers' comments 5 times a week makes me think of life, death, and everything in between. It's about so much more than cancer.

Sent by Leslie Bjorncrantz | 7:39 AM ET | 07-25-2008

Have to love Alice, she takes care of our hero. AND, unlike me, she knows PERSONALLY where you are and what you are going through. She understands the anger and fear and emotions that you are experiencing and I hope that you can talk to her also! Take care Leroy -love to you and to Laurie. You know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Jan

Sent by Janice Goldberg White | 7:57 AM ET | 07-25-2008

Dear Leroy and Laurie,
When my husband first got DX with Stage IV lung cancer, I spent the next 18 months taking care of him and telling people about all the stress it was causing me. The most common responses that I would get from people were, "Elaine, it's not about you" or "Imagine how he feels!" When we brought hospice into the house and hired a nurse's aide, we were glad to have her there but were surprised when at the end, she cried as hard about my husband's passing as the rest of us. Who would have thought that it was about her. Cancer and its aftermath affects everyone touched by it and it extends outward like tentacles of an octopus touching all in its wake. Thanks, Leroy for reminding me to keep on fighting. Now that my husband is gone, I have an entire new set of challenges and anyone who says that it's not about me just doesn't get it.

Sent by Elaine | 8:00 AM ET | 07-25-2008

Hats off to Alice!
If I were in her shoes, I'm not sure if I would want or be able to be around cancer that much.

Sent by Sue in Rochester, NY | 8:06 AM ET | 07-25-2008

Leroy - I can get wrapped up in my problems very easy - but then I have to remember that there are others who have it much worse right now. I have a roof over my head, a good job, and family and friends. I am blessed in so many ways and sometimes I have to remind myself of that. Cancer took the love of my life - but also opened my eyes to the other loves of my life. The disease does attack so many - to damn many!!! Keep fighting the fight, Leroy, and feel blessed for what you do have in your life.

Sent by Deb from Michigan | 8:26 AM ET | 07-25-2008

Right you are. It's a tidal wave that splashes everything.

I know my family needs a break from it, I'm glad they are able too. This is a heavy load, one I wish my husband and children never had to pick up.

Yes, the waves crash over us everyday. We get up and dare them to try again.
We keep fighting...together.

Salty hugs from Cape Cod,
Debra Altschiller

Sent by Debra from New Hampshire | 8:27 AM ET | 07-25-2008

Seems that it is you being in wonderland this time instead of Alice! She sounds like a WONDERful person. I hope the week-end treats you kindly.

Sent by Susan | 8:38 AM ET | 07-25-2008

There is a perfect example of what I always say....life is circular. Sometimes we're the ones doing the giving and sometimes we have to be able to receive.
God bless Alice, and God bless you, Leroy.

Sent by Nancy K. Clark | 8:38 AM ET | 07-25-2008

Dear Leroy~ I wish you a happy, peaceful, weekend and will look forward to your return on Monday. You, like so many of us, seem to be wavering back and forth trying so hard to understand what is happining to you. Sure wish you find some peace of mind, take one day at a time, and try to get the most of your time left here. As you said- Alice has been through so much and yet here she is, taking care of others, forgetting herself. You should listen carefully to her. What about your Laurie? Love and good weekend.

Sent by J C R | 8:38 AM ET | 07-25-2008

Yes, you never know. After several weeks of lymphedema massage following breast cancer surgery, one day I complimented the lovely woman who did my treatments on her beautiful curly hair. Is that a permanent, I asked? No, she replied, it's chemo hair. She had had breast cancer also! It's all around us. Everywhere.

Sent by Wendy | 8:43 AM ET | 07-25-2008

Is that all we can do Leroy? Seems to me like we should be able to do more, but what?

Alice sounds like a beautiful person.

God bless you.

Judy

Sent by Judy Voller | 8:50 AM ET | 07-25-2008

This week I took my 99 year old friend to her oncologist; turning 100 on August 23 she had a breast removed in April due to cancer.

She wonders aloud at times why cancer came to her at 99 and thinks she must have lived just a bit too long.

As we waited in the doctor's office, my own experiences were mirrored by other women waiting: those full heads of hair thanks to their wigs, the "do-rag" type scarves, and the baseball hats.

While I have no indication my own cancer has returned, my mind was filled with thoughts of how many are diagnosed every single day and the similar paths we follow in fighting this disease no matter our age.

Have a good week-end Leroy and Laurie and cherish each other.

Peggy

Sent by Peggy | 9:10 AM ET | 07-25-2008

I'm glad you have someone to help and glad you have been able to get Alice to share her story. I'm sure we are often unaware of how many Alice's walk among us each day.

It is never easy to face cancer but when I realize how much support I have, the good insurance I have I am painfully aware of how difficult it would be without those things.

I often spend hours on the phone working with the insurance company and hospitals. I've spent my life as a bureaucrat and am really good at that stuff but what about those that don't know the questions to ask or the process to follow. It always make me really sad. Peace

Sent by Dona | 9:14 AM ET | 07-25-2008

Leroy: It is abount you. It is about all of us with this dreaded disease. We hope, hope that one day will get up and be disease free. Our strength, our energy will return and we can return to the world!!! What fun to be out in the work world, meeting friends for dinner! Friends did take me to the movie yesterday "WHEN DID YOU LAST SEE YOUR FATHER" Good movie and fun to be out with friends, but I was so tired. It will take a day or to regain some energy. Back to knitting and flipping channels. Happy and peaceful weekend everyone

Sent by diana from kc | 9:16 AM ET | 07-25-2008

Leroy, I am glad Alice is the person helping you. Haveing dealt with the cancer herself I am sure she understands many of the issues you are going through. You are right, way too many people are affected by this disease. I hope that one day there will be a cure. In the mean time as you say just keep right on fighting.

I hope that you and Laurie will have a good weekend. I will continue to keep you both in my prayers, as well as the others out there that are continueing the fight.

Sent by dorothy in oregon | 9:18 AM ET | 07-25-2008

It's amazing how the angels in our lives show up just when we need them...

Sent by Lori | 9:32 AM ET | 07-25-2008

Leroy,
Thank you for the reminder....
Some days, my own pain is such that I forget, I am not alone. Others are hurting too!
My dear friends, God's peace, continued prayers and abundant blessings!
Enjoy the weekend, see you Monday!

Sent by Laurie Hirth | 9:46 AM ET | 07-25-2008

And Alice does that probably she has to work.

Just like I have to keep going and take care of my daughter alone- her father died when she was 2.

People live and die of all kinds of things and most are not as fortunate as you or I.

Sent by JA | 9:51 AM ET | 07-25-2008

Maybe what we can not do on our own we can do together. What about a Leroy Seivers Foundation? Have you ever thought about it? We your cyber family can do so little for you Leroy. This might be an opportunity to give us the chance to give back to you. Maybe something good could come from it.

Sent by Janie | 9:51 AM ET | 07-25-2008

Dear Leroy, I apologize for not being on here for this past week. My Dad was hospitalized last Friday for what appears to be the final steps of his journey. He went under in hospital hospice care two days ago. He has fought the good fight. He has stopped eating and is not usually present with us--but somewhere else.

Take care and have a good weekend Leroy--you and Laurie! We care about you and we love you!

Sent by Linda Lee | 9:52 AM ET | 07-25-2008

Dear Leroy,
You are right. We don't have to look far to find many more people dealing with cancer. Alice sounds like a gem to have gone through all she has and now work with cancer patients.
Charlotte in Rural Ridge, PA

Sent by Charlotte Kewish | 9:52 AM ET | 07-25-2008

It's amazing how we sometimes get into that rut of thinking that this is only about us. Then we meet someone like Alice and I think it gives us hope. Keep fighting Leroy. Prayers for you and Laurie as always.

Sent by Linda | 9:56 AM ET | 07-25-2008

It just occured to me, after reading your post for the second time this morning while looking for "comments", that every other word we hear these days is FIGHT, or fighting Cancer, or this and that. Were we born to always be "fighting"? Is that what life is all about? TV is full of those words and yet we give "lip service to PEACE"
Do we even know what that word means? Doctors and Reserches are supposed to be "fighting diseases". Patients should keep their bodies in the best shape possible to help. Our minds play an important part too, as your Alice shows you.
Maybe we should become more peaceful. Not "give up or surrender", but accept the hand that is dealt us and do our best. I am very confused Leroy, and you sound the same.

Sent by J C R | 9:58 AM ET | 07-25-2008

Thank you for sharing this revelation with us. We need to be reminded. Alice is showing her gratitude and compassion by giving back. She is not focusing on herself. Instead she is giving of herself. What better way of making use of one's life. I'm so glad that Alice is a part of your life. Thank you for sharing her with us.

Sent by Linda | 10:00 AM ET | 07-25-2008

3 of my 4 grandparents had cancer. My mom and my brother died of it. Now my cousin is fighting breast cancer. I used to think my family was cursed but I was so wrong.

Sent by Liz L. | 10:09 AM ET | 07-25-2008

Leroy,
Today we celebrate the life of Randy Pausch, a professor of computer science at Carnegie Mellon University. In 2006, Pausch was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, and less than a year later, the cancer metastasized to his liver and spleen. He was given 6 months to live. He has spent the last year lecturing about his life and dreams and outlook on life. Some of you have probably seen him on Oprah or other various TV shows. He would always start off his lecture by doing push-ups. If you haven't seen this lecture, you can google it.

Last night he passed away. Like you Leroy, he dedicated the balance of his life after diagnosis to helping people understand the importance of life while living.

Yes Leroy, You are right. It's not all about you. But for us, and in your circle of people, right now...it is all about you!

Keep on living buddy!

Warmest Regards,
Michael

Sent by Michael (Lifegiver Survivor) Chicago | 10:18 AM ET | 07-25-2008

yup, I have had Colon Cancer for 5 years now. Yes, it has been a constant battle of surgeries, radation, chemo therapies. etc. Everytime I relaps I start all over again, but one thing I will not do is let this cancer get the better of me in my attitude. And, I fight it everyday, I do alternatives as well. But, I refuse to dwell...As soon as I start to think about the negitives I stop myself and smile and live for today as happy as I can...even if it is moment by moment. At the moment it is in my lungs and I am on very aggessive chemo therapies. Thank goodness for the medications to fight the side effects. If they get really bad I usually just sleep it off..and let my body obsorb and recup for a few days. This seems to really help. I do the chemos' every 2 weeks. Good luck to you Leroy! I pray for you daily!

Sent by sue | 10:20 AM ET | 07-25-2008

It really does - and I think that's why as someone who is very fortunate to not be living with cancer I still follow your blog daily and care so much about your journey. I've seen what this disease was capable of doing to my mom, to many of my friends' families, to my 26 year old friend who passed on this past Fall. Everywhere I look there is cancer compromising the lives of wonderful people. It is important to be aware of that, it is important for me to read your blog and try to gain an understanding of what you and Laurie are going through, because the human connection there is what will inspire our society to keep researching, to keep fighting, and keep reaching out to others. This is why even though I'm a big admirer of your work prior to "My Cancer", I think the work you're doing for the world right now is so amazing.

Sent by liz | 10:22 AM ET | 07-25-2008

IF ONLY THE WORLD HAD MORE ALICES......WHAT A WONDERFUL WORLD IT WOULD BE......

Sent by Teresa in WV | 10:24 AM ET | 07-25-2008

What a blessing Alice is. It borders on the spiritual to care for others in time of need - it is there that one encounters the essence of humanity.

Leroy, as for calling it a "fight," you know you may call it whatever you wish to get you through. I take it to mean continuing to make the effort to put one foot in front of the other in the journey.

Please tell Alice she will soon have a ready-made fan club to cheer her on!

Linda

Sent by Linda | 10:45 AM ET | 07-25-2008

Check out this video from the NASA sight - I found it very cheering.

http://antwrp.gsfc.nasa.gov/apod/ap080722.html

Sent by Bev C. | 10:51 AM ET | 07-25-2008

Hi Leroy,

I know that when something like cancer comes into your life, by one way or another you realize that you are not the only one, and you also come to many new realizations. Before my mom died my dad ran into some many people that he didn't even know that has gone through the struggles with cancer. It is a lot like when you buy a new vehicle, you end up seeing the same type of car all over the place, but cancer is a little more disguised.

Thanks again for the blog!

Nicholas Zeitler

Sent by Nicholas Zeitler | 11:01 AM ET | 07-25-2008

Dear Leroy,

Yay for Alice!! I'm glad that she is doing well and helping you as well. You are right, we need to keep on fighting, too.

Sent by barbara j | 11:01 AM ET | 07-25-2008

I'm with Lori - "...I believe there are angels among us..."

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XHfleTZWAsI

Sent by beth | 11:02 AM ET | 07-25-2008

I agree that it is fighting. We were made to survive and anything that threatens that is fought. There is so much here that is beautiful and I for one, don't want to give it up. The unknown is scary. Thanks be that we have wonderful people around us in our journeys through life.

Sent by Susan in the beautiful mountains of Colorado | 11:13 AM ET | 07-25-2008

Dude, we're all connected, we just need to figure out at what level. Bless Alice for helping you - she knows the beast but yet chooses to help others fight it. Not that cancer is a blessing, but the opportunity it provides for us to meet all kinds of wonderful, caring people is. Funny how the ying and yang work, isn't it?

I wish you peace.

Sent by Joyce in FL | 11:16 AM ET | 07-25-2008

I want to thank you for your writings of
your journey. my husband and I have been dealing with his congestive heart
failure and the stages of facing the
truth of the diagnosis. I would not wish
this for anyone, but, we are more
honest with our feelings, our pain, the
journey and where it leads us. Thank you
for your bravery, honesty, openness and
letting us in to your and Laurie's journey. Peace and Love, Diane

Sent by Diane | 11:18 AM ET | 07-25-2008

Leroy, let's all stop fighting cancer for a moment, take a deep breath and remember...It really IS all about each one of us...you and Alice and me and Laurie and everybody who comments here. God is right there with his eye on each one of us, helping us to learn from each other just what we need to know to complete our journeys here. I love knowing that we won't be leaving until they're truly complete.
Leroy, can you see yourself still doing this blog when you're an old geezer?! :) That could be what God has in mind for you, you know!

Sent by Pat | 11:18 AM ET | 07-25-2008

Leroy,

I think all of us would be hard pressed to find anyone whose life has not in some way been touched by cancer.

Both my grandmothers died from it. My mother died from it. It took one of my husbands.

The ways this disease changes my life continue to unfold years later. Some of the changes are sad; others are good for me.

Blessings.

Sent by Diana Kitch | 11:22 AM ET | 07-25-2008

Alice has already helped me - by making me realize we're not alone. We never know what people are going through, do we?
Leroy - you and Laurie and everyone on this blog constantly help me keep going. I don't know what I would do without all of you.
I will miss you over the weekend.
JCR - like you, my husband doesn't like the term "fighting" or "battling" cancer. I think it emphasizes to him the intensity and danger of the beast, but he doesn't want to give up either. It is confusing to to try to understand the best way to approach the disease, and I worry that too much negativity can cause more harm-but it is also hard to achieve a peaceful and positive mindset. I try but can't sustain it.
I'm also sad to hear about Randy Pausch's passing and think of his wife and children today.
Love to all.

Sent by Tina from Alton, IL | 11:30 AM ET | 07-25-2008

How comforting it must be to have Alice as your home health aid/nurse - one who truly understands both you and Laurie.

From a different Alice

Sent by Alice May - Nebraska | 11:32 AM ET | 07-25-2008

Well Leroy, sounds like Alice is another angel in your life. I wouldn't be too self critical though. All that you have shared here on this blog makes it clear to me that the reason you are doing so well is that you intrinsically know it is not all about you. You are a power of example to so many people and draw on others' strength by giving to others. You are a fighter, a natural leader. Good leadership is defined largely by doing, leading by example. When someone 'walks the walk' and not just 'talks the talk' others are compelled to follow. In that way a true leader lets others see their courage in the face of difficult odds. We see their vulnerability, we see their true metal in challenging moments. And if we are lucky we see if they have true humility; a very real sign of a born leader. You are all these things for me Leroy and I'd be willing to wager others would agree. You exhibit great humility today in sharing this story about Alice. It touches my heart and brings tears to my eyes because in the midst of all your difficulties you can look up to someone else in admiration and respect...keeping in perspective who you are and what you need to do...keep fighting: leading us on. Humility is knowing who we really are what our 'job' in life is at any given monent: that we are no less and no better than anyone else and hear to learn and help others. Thank you so much I love who you are and am honored and grateful to know you through this Blog. Graham from Sag Harbor.

Sent by Graham G. Hawks | 11:33 AM ET | 07-25-2008

I love it when something like that, Alice telling you of her cancer, zaps us with a truth about life we might not otherwise see or hear. For some reason it makes me think of Howard's End a book we read eons ago in high school, and the theme of connectedness or the lack of it.

It's very hard not to focus on yourself when you are in pain physically or emotionally. So when these gifts come if we can hold them and rest in them for awhile it's so valuable.

Hoping for a good weekend for everyone and a sense of connectedness that might plug us into something wonderful.

Nancy O

Sent by Nancy Oliveri | 11:49 AM ET | 07-25-2008

Did you have any idea how much cancer affected people before your diagnosis. I didn't. I will be changed forever because of it.

Take care

Sent by Irene | 11:53 AM ET | 07-25-2008

Leroy, Life is about living, we take that for granted, until something like this happens. Then we think it is about dieing! At somepoint, we lose the battle. But then you run across someone who has a story of survival. It gives you hope again, the ability to extend the fight, because there is always hope! Hang tough--Thoughts, Stan

Sent by Stan Wozniak | 11:56 AM ET | 07-25-2008

Enjoy the weekend, Leroy and each and every reader. With some special moment a gift to all.

Sent by Lucy from Alaska | 11:58 AM ET | 07-25-2008

Leroy, you are so right. When I visit my doctors for follow up, I am astounded at the number of people there, clearly in all different stages, fighting the disease. It's about all of us - not just those with the cancer, but also about our loved ones, caregivers, and health care professionals. We will stick together and fight for each other. Alice sounds like an incredibly giving person. You are lucky to have her in your life!

Sent by Kate | 12:21 PM ET | 07-25-2008

Dude:

I remember when I was younger, I would fantasize "If I got cancer I would quit my job and only do the things I want to do for the time I had left." Then when I actually GOT cancer all I longed for was routine. Because I got an infection in my biopsy, my surgery was delayed, and I went to work each day. But in the midst of a project, I would start to feel the panic rise and I'd jump up from my desk run out the front door and walk around the block. The receptionist got used to seeing me flee, but some of the lawn chair sitters in the neighborhood greeted me with quizzical looks each time.

When I see someone in a cafe with chemo head (bald), or the turban come do-rag look, I try not to stare, but I keep wondering "What's your story? What kind of cancer nabbed you?"

In my county, 4 out of 7 women will develop breast cancer! This is beyond an epidemic, 1200 salmonella cases NATIONWIDE have essentially destroyed the tomato market, yet no one yet has tracked down the environmental factor that has lead to this breast cancer explosion.

Okay I'm wandering. The point is, Alice is probably thrilled to be able to continue doing what she did for a living. The "normal" is what we all long for in cancer world.

Peggy C.

Sent by Peggy Carey | 12:32 PM ET | 07-25-2008

Thanks, Leroy, I need that reminder, too. Serving others, when we can, however we can, is what it's all about, after all. You do that for us every day.

Sent by NancyGM | 12:33 PM ET | 07-25-2008

Dear Leroy,
Thank God you have Alice. Thank God we have YOU........

Prayers to all.

Sent by sasha | 12:39 PM ET | 07-25-2008

Yep, it is not all about me- I remind myself of that often. Unfortunatley almost everyone I know has been affected by cancer in some way. Sadly, I just read that Randy Pausch passed away today. His speech, which was meant to benefit his children, is very inspirational. If any of you have not listened to the "Last Lecture" than I recommend you do. Thanks again Leroy for this blog- I hope you know the enormity of its benefits.

Sent by Susie R. from OH | 1:21 PM ET | 07-25-2008

On a day when Randy Pausch has left us (see post above: he was the professor who inspired millions by giving a 'last lecture' and writing a book about hope and dreams more than about cancer) - and on a day when I wait with a family member to find out if she has orthopedic cancer- Leroy, your post was welcome. It's about so many of us, so many families- some waiting, some grieving, and I hope, many more moving forward, post-treatment and into a period of thriving and helping others.

Sent by Barbara K | 1:23 PM ET | 07-25-2008

Good Afternoon Leroy, Laurie and All,

Leroy, I too, am glad that you have Alice as she understands on a deeply personal level what you are going through. I am also shocked at the sheer numbers of people who have cancer. Before my diagnosis I only knew one person who had been diagnosed. Now I know 20, not including me. And sadly, the numbers keep going up.

Laurie, I'm glad that Alice is there for you too. Since she is willing to share personal information about her cancer, I'm sure she will be a support for you as well.

To Linda Lee, I am so sorry to hear that your Dad's journey is nearing it's end. I know your heart is heavy! Please know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

To All, As we offer support to Leroy, Laurie and each other, we know that our journey is filled with twists and turns.
We face good news and bad and never know what lies in wait over the next hill. Tom and I had a good news/bad news day yesterday when I got my scan results. The good news is that the cancer appears stable at present. The bad mews, it is more wide spread than I was aware. There is involvement of: lung, thyroid, spleen and pelvis. We were overwhelmed when we left the doctor's office yesterday. Today has been a day of reflection and trying to stir the embers of HOPE! But we know that when those embers do flicker there are others there to help us stir the flame! God Bless!

Eileen Pruyne
Charlotte, NC.

Sent by Eileen Pruyne | 1:38 PM ET | 07-25-2008

Dear Leroy,

I had a dream last night that I met you and Laurie, like in a mall Food Court! It was weird! You were sitting at one of the little tables, and you had a long gray ponytail! The dream made little sense, and I can't even remember what we said, but I do remember that ponytail. Guess it's just my subconscious tapping into my prayers, as I think of you many times during the day and pray for you before bed. I guess I just want you to be around a long time, hence the long hair. My prayers will now extend to Alice and her family, and as always, everyone else here. Have the best weekend possible. May God bless, heal and comfort all.

Sent by Connie | 1:41 PM ET | 07-25-2008

We all have to keep fighting this monster. Fight on, Leroy. Much Love.
Wendy

Sent by Wendy | 2:13 PM ET | 07-25-2008

Dear Leroy,

Life's visitors and companions we all are, and the untold stories that lie just beneath the surface of our bodies! Standing in line at the grocery store; walking along the sidewalks; anywhere and everywhere, we are all connected by our stories, told and untold. Cancer is a very prevalent story, indeed -- It's always helpful and comforting to meet someone who has walked the same path; who understands. Blessings to Alice, and blessings to you and Laurie, and blessings to Dr. Pausch and his family ... God bless us every one.

With warmest thoughts and wishes always,

Kim Forester

Sent by Kim Forester | 2:18 PM ET | 07-25-2008

HI Leroy,

I'm glad you have Alice. I wish you a peaceful weekend. You are in my prayers.

Sent by Marcy in NJ | 2:28 PM ET | 07-25-2008

Leroy,

One of the incredible things about this blog is that it brings together all of the players in Cancer World; whether it's the cancer person, the life giver, or, like me, the life giver survivor, the dr., the nurse, the health practitioner and even the observer from a different illness. And we all have this connectedness that pulls us up and keeps us going--at least for another day.

What a wonderful gift you have given to so many people, Leroy.

By the way, with Alice you'd think there would be some good analogy about Alice and the Looking Glass. I'm just not clever enough to find it.

Everyone, please have a good weekend.

Sent by Kathy B. from Michigan | 3:06 PM ET | 07-25-2008

Every once in awhile, God throws cold water in my face to bring me back to reality and realize that as you say, "it's not just about me." One of these instances was when I was in chemo. I and another woman, whom I didn't know, started on the same day so we had some kind of weird bond when we would see each other on subsequent chemo days. Around the fourth round of my therapy, I was feeling pretty sorry for myself --- I was sick, tired, well, you know how it is. A real personal pity party. As I sat in the chemo room, my "friend" came in and sat down next to me, asked how I was, and I began my list of complaints. I asked how she was doing and she said, "Well, not so good. They have now found another tumor in my brain and I must begin radiation along with the chemo."
As you can imagine, I felt ashamed of myself for thinking that I had it the worst of anybody. Whoosh! Another dash of cold water.

Sent by Marilyn Trujillo | 3:32 PM ET | 07-25-2008

GoodMorning Leroy and Family,
Can your doc's do nothing more for you?
Are there any trials that you can be put on?.
Have you decided there is nothing more?
Have your doc's decided there is nothing more?
It is difficult for me to think there is nothing more that you can do to stop this disease.
Page - Gresham Oregon

Sent by Page Hendryx | 3:40 PM ET | 07-25-2008

We live in a gracious world. I'm always awaiting the next scan from my colon cancer, too...worried, but never sure if I should be. And then we get to hear about many, many people helping others...on NPR just yesterday...replanting day lilies because someone lost their rental. Helps me remember that we don't have to be sick to be lucky...

Sent by Mark Chambers | 3:46 PM ET | 07-25-2008

Leroy and Laurie:

I am so very glad that you have Alice. She will be such a great help to you and yes, will grieve with Laurie as well. She may need her more then than she does right now.

Cancer it seems is touching all of us in some manner, but so are heart disease and so many of the other terminal diagnoses. However, the only one that matters to us at the moment is the person that we love that is suffering so much.

I truly believe that there are Angels among us....those people that God puts into our lives to help us see just how fortunate we are and how much he loves us.

I am coming to the belief that Cancer and some of these long term disease are God's way of giving us a chance to say goodbye to our families and our loved ones - and as in the case of Randy Pauch today, a legacy to his children. Many people who leave this world suddenly are not given that gift of extra time with their families. When we all learn to appreciate time, without concern for materialism, we may be on the road to becoming a more loving and appreciative world.

You and Laurie are in my prayers Leroy, for your blog has been very helpful to me and has helped me face the death of a beloved aunt, from breast cancer. May God bless you both.

Sent by Cindy Sivula | 4:38 PM ET | 07-25-2008

Eileen P., my heart is heavy for you and Tom. Stay strong my friend, focus on the good news and know that we are keeping you and many others in our prayers! I pray you have a peaceful weekend filled with new moments that are not ordinary!

Sent by Laurie Hirth | 4:48 PM ET | 07-25-2008

Leroy:

No matter what words we use for cancer, it certainly isn't a passive beast. If the past three years or so haven't been a "fight" then why do I feel like I've been beat up? Tomorrow morning at 9 am MDT, Burge will have been gone one year and today, I feel completely warn out.

Last night my youngest, Scott, had a wonderful 16th birthday where everything went smooth...except a missing place at the table none of us wanted to address until all the guests were gone and Scott and I were alone. We really missed our loved one.

Yesterday, I finally went to grief counseling and discovered that for all the self talk, I'm far from being finished with needing to talk out what cancer took from me and once again, I thank you for giving us this blog.

Perhaps Alice knows how I feel about working though what has happened by helping you and others. "It's is ALL about me for now", but my psychologist says it's OK to feel that way for a little longer....when I'm done healing myself, I'll be so much stronger and available to help others who are coming through what I just left. I hope I do justice to the cause.

Give Laurie a hug today, Glad to hear from Elaine, Laurie Hirth, and the others working though their grief. May you all have a peaceful weekend.

Nikki

Sent by Nikki in Kansas | 4:55 PM ET | 07-25-2008

I was unaware or did not pay attention until I too got cancer. Then you join a very large family. Besides myself and you Leroy I personally know 15 others. One of my closest friends is dying of breast cancer. She travels closer and closer to heaven each day.

Sent by Bonnie Allman | 5:33 PM ET | 07-25-2008

Hi Leroy and Laurie,

Speaking of angels, this song sees me through a lot, and I would like to share it with you both ... and anyone else reading this. Here is the link, I hope it works:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rEtvcsqGipo

The song is sung by Jane Silberry and K.D. Lang. I have found it beautiful for years. If the link doesn't work, just go to www.youtube.com and put "Calling All Angels" in the search box, and several videos will come up. My computer is being a little funky, so the link might not work corrcctly.

Yes, cancer touches everyone.

Heartlight,

Kim Blankenship

Sent by Kim Blankenship | 6:27 PM ET | 07-25-2008

What a strong woman. My thoughts and prayers to you, Laurie, Alice and all who suffer because of this wretched disease. With care and hope.

Sent by anne lumberger | 6:30 PM ET | 07-25-2008

Dear Leroy and Laurie,
This is my first post. I've lurked for a long time. I'm a scholar interested in how people support each other through illness. And, yeah, I've been the supporter (like Alice) and the supportee. My sense is that it's a circle and that we need to learn both parts of it to be whole. My prayers are with both of you.

Thought you also might be interested in some sister bloggers - here's the link for an article about them in the Seattle Post-Intelligencer.
http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/local/372201_cancerbloggers25.html

Love to everyone on the blog,
Diane

Sent by Diane Tobin Johnson | 7:06 PM ET | 07-25-2008

Hi Leroy & all,
Read this blog everyday, haven't posted for awhile. My mother died last month from her lung cancer. She managed her disease with a few rounds of chemo then comfort care thru hospice. She passed peacefully. That's my very personal contact with one who has cancer. Plus my older brother just finished his painful, but effective treatment for prostate cancer. And now I'm having another breast biopsy next week (6th of various kinds since 1998), just to be sure.

"Cancer detection screening" effects millions of people yearly especially women who have regular mammograms and pap smears. How's that for it's not all about me. So far I've dodged the cancer bullet, but it is unnerving to face the probing again and again. Cancer just needs to go away. So much wasted time, money, efforts, emotions all around. Even when you don't have cancer we are advised to get all of today's recommended cancer screens, to continue to look for it early.

For now I'll get thru this biopsy and the dreaded waiting time for results. Vented a bit which shows this blog helps those who look as well.

Sent by Marge from Texas | 7:53 PM ET | 07-25-2008

Many people never know a CNA until they or a family member gets sick, otherwise they are usually just part of the invisable working class.
As an RN for 24 years, I can testify to the hard work done by the CNA/Home health aide; they give the care that not many family members would consider doing, they do the backbreaking labour and they serve as maids, often dismissed without a please or thank you. In hospitals and nursing homes, they work under impossible patient loads-they get the work done but they cannot begin to meet the needs of their patients. They work at the LOWEST levels of pay, many without benefits and with scant to no respect from their employers or the public. They often work overtime or two jobs to make ends meet.Most that I have worked with are dedicated professionals who sincerely care for their patients and go well beyond the call of duty despite how they are treated.
I can also testify to the fact that on any given day in America there are numerous nurses and aides working sick and working after being diagnosised with cancer-they come to the floor after radiation or chemo because they cannot afford the time off and they may jeapordise their health care benefits-such as they are (and they are usually paltry, even at the best hospitals). I have worked with nurses who would be throwing up after chemo and then return to the floor with the help of co-workers to finish the day-even though they were dragging.
NOTHING IS JUST ABOUT ANY ONE OF US-WE ARE ALL IN THIS TOGETHER.

Sent by Syndi | 8:02 PM ET | 07-25-2008

Does anyone not know someone that has been affected by cancer? I doubt it, really. My first encounter came when I was 13, my grandmother. Then my grandfather, my father (survived and lived until 90), my sister, cousin, aunt, friends, the list continues. Some continue as best the can for as long as they can. Some it stops them cold, and they cease to live. It takes all kind.

Today we are home, we spent the day in Indianapolis, at their zoo, botanic garden. It is a great place to visit, and reasonably priced. Then to the Indiana War Museum. WOW, is an understatement. It was built after WWI and covers all the major conflicts, including 9/11, the USS Indianapolis (WWII). However, the most beautiful area, the top floor! The columns, ceiling, and wall. WOW!

It's good to be home, I have a lot of reading to do to get caught up...

Sent by Sue Chap | 8:11 PM ET | 07-25-2008

My wish is that we keep peacing.

It's what I'm trying to do. I understand why the word "fighting" is used, but I am wanting to live without "fighting" all the time, and I think "peacing" is a way I'm going to try.

Wishing you peace and love and oceans of comfort.

Sent by Kim & Virgie | 8:48 PM ET | 07-25-2008

Yes, I can relate... my family has a very strong maternal history of breast cancer. My grandmother died at age 33 of it; three of her sisters had it. My mother, her sister and three of their cousins had it; also two nieces. I always expected that was what I and my daughter were facing. At age 68, it still has not materialized.

When my 19 year old son had a brain tumor removed while in the USMC, we went through seven months of extreme difficulty, and almost lost him several times. Yet I remained very grateful for the positive things in our lives at that time. He was in an excellent hospital with good doctors, fairly close to our home so that we could be with him a good part of the time; so many young men were dying there without their families (they were just sooo far from home). His tumor turned out not to be malignant, so despite his difficulties, he survived with rather limited physical problems. We became so much closer as a family. While he was in the hospital and we were worrying if this was or wasn't cancer, and what were his chances, my brother-in-law dropped dead of a massive heart attack at work. Total surprise and the reality that we all face death, every day, was really brought home to me.

In the past year, two cousins were treated for newly diagnosed cancer; one is terminal. My daughter was diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer; her cousin was diagnosed with Stage II and lost a lung. My daughter didn't make it but, so far, her cousin is doing well. Two days before our daughter's death, my husband was diagnosed with Stage I and underwent intensive surgery (whipple procedure) and was hospitalized for over a month and it took another three months to recover. During that time, his brother was diagnosed and died of cancer.

My husband would get annoyed when I would say how "lucky" we were. He couldn't see past what he was going through at the moment but I was so grateful that his was such an early stage and that his doctors felt confident that they had gotten it all.

No matter what is going on in our lives, things can always be so much worse. And, while it's natural to feel sorry for ourselves at times like these, it really doesn't help much to dwell on it. The only result I see from this is that it drags us down and everyone around us. If we are able to look beyond our current circumstances and see the good in life and count what blessings we do have (insurance, caretakers, family, faculties that are not affected by the disease), and that we are not alone, it truly helps so much. I feel I was blessed that my daughter, although only 46 at the time of her diagnosis, was a positive person and able to find peace with what was happening in her life; she fought it as much as possible, but accepted the possibility that she may not make it; this helped so much at the end of her life.

I trust that we all find the strength and the courage to face whatever life has in store for us. You are all in my prayers. Thank God for the Alice's in our lives.

Sent by Betty Obst | 9:30 PM ET | 07-25-2008

Dear Leroy and all,
Whatever will become of this blog and what will we all do with the great void, silence and emptiness that it seems likely will befall us soon? And Leroy, thank you for your great courage to print all these comments, no matter how honest, and no matter how painful. Love, Joyce

Sent by joyce smith | 9:56 PM ET | 07-25-2008

Unfortunately, I know lots of people who, if diagnosed with cancer, don't have much hope for treatment because they are poor--extremely poor. Something needs to be done about basic heath care for people in this country.
Michael: Thanks for the post about Randy Pausch. What a great group of people contribute to this blog!

Sent by N. Holmes | 10:31 PM ET | 07-25-2008

I just started reading your blog this week. You are amazing Leroy, I am blessed by the outpouring of love around you! Have a sweet weekend.
T. Stanley from CA

Sent by Theresa Stanley | 11:02 PM ET | 07-25-2008

As serendipity would have it, dear friend Jack at www.jackzen.com said today: "Talking with Chris Holdwick this morning about the power of stories in patient care. She's spent a career helping hospital cultures transform into this country's top performing providers.

Her thought on the importance of solitciting the stories of others and sharing our stories: "How can you provide good care without knowing their stories and them knowing yours?"

Thank you for sharing your story.

Sent by Elaine | 11:58 PM ET | 07-25-2008

I have a friend who always says " It IS all about me".. And isn't it? I mean , my life , my joys, my troubles are all about me. I am, after all, the center of MY universe. It is a rare, very rare, person who doesn't first think about themselves in any given situation. Oh sure, adults, in what we conceive of as a civilized culture, are taught to think of others first, but deep down, I believe we all think of ourselves first, even if we don't act that way. It is only human nature. But that being said, it does help to remember than no matter how bad we think we have it, someone else is having it worse than we are.
A note to Alice : "You Go Girl!!"

Sent by Theresa Lovin | 6:00 AM ET | 07-26-2008

Leroy, I know that God will send many more angels to watch over you in the coming days. Rest my friend, rest ! Enjoy every hour every minute you can of this life. Know that the one waiting for you is eternal.
I am fighting breast cancer myself. I have just finished all my treatments on June 11th. Chemo to shrink the tumor, 2 sugeries to remove the tumors, then radiation to kill any cancer cells that were left behind, maybe ?? Now the waiting begins. Will it or want it come back ? How sad it is to live with a shadow hanging over your head ? It's hard. Cancer sucks ! I will do it. I have no choice. I lost my mom, my dad, my sister, my grandfather all to cancer. It is was not pretty. The only thing I ask of God is not to let my two wonderful sons have to see me die from this disease like I had to see my family do.
I guess after seeing all of that I must of not ever thought I would end up with it. I never even had thoughts that wondered there. When I got the diagnosis last October I was shocked but not really that overwhelmed.
The chemo was hell. I thought it was gonna kill me. I was ready to give up. I wanted to go, I was ready and not afraid. I had an angel visit me one day through one of my nurses when I was in the hospital after one of my chemo treatments that knocked me for a loop. It lifted me up and I made it through. After all that I know now that this cancer can come back and take me at any time. I am ready if that times comes.
God bless you my friend in all the days ahead of you. LOVE AND PEACE BE WITH YOU! Angels are all around you and they are watching over you and yours.
If they come for you, Fly high, fly high, and you will be among the angels watching over me.
What a beautiful life you have lived and shared with so many. You are truly blessed ! God loves you and so do I.

Sent by Mary Anne | 8:05 AM ET | 07-26-2008

Leroy - Randy and you are my heros. I to have Pancreatic cancer so I felt a special bond with Randy. I feel a bond with you ever since I saw you on the Ted Koppel show. Now there is Alice. I have the best support system I could ever ask for and listening to others who have the support makes me feel great to know there are those who care even if the government does not. The Livestrong Summit was here in Columbus this weekend. It is sad that we have to have summits like these to bring attention to this dreaded illness. Hopefully with more Alice's in the world people will begin to understand that there is life after cancer for some and they give back to help others. Then the world of non cancer patients will begin to help those in need. Keep on going Leroy and give Alice a hug for being such a caring person.

Sent by Cathy | 11:08 AM ET | 07-26-2008

I have been a nurse for over 30 years & have dealt with patients & cancer & disease & trauma all my life, BUT it wasn't until my husband was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer 2 1/2 years ago that I GOT IT!! Until you live this disease 24/7 you don't GET IT. Alice gets it & I am sure she can understand the pain you are going through both physically & emotionally so much better than others. I am not saying people without experiencing cancer cannot give great care, but those who have been touched have a better understanding. We have been living our life PET scan to PET scan & since we have to get a scan every 3 months because of the nature of how aggressive lung cancer can be, it has been hard. You cannot make long term plans because you just don't know what is going to happen in 3 months & where your life will be. Elaine is correct about how the disease touches every member of the family. I sometimes feel the weight, because of being a nurse, of knowing what may happen next. I sometimes think it would be better if my husband would not wake up one morning instead of having the disease return to his only remaining lung. It is a terrible way to live. I also have learned to live life as if I were dying & I do appreciate that gift. Living in the moment is a beautiful thing. His last scan showed new nodules in his only remaining lung. The nodules didn't light up in the PET scan just could be seen in the CT scan. This could mean nothing or could mean they are just too small & will light up next PET scan. I quit my job, we came to Michigan to spend the summer with our sons & we will return to Florida to face what comes next the end of August. We are having a wonderful trip & got to see our 2nd grandchild 1 hour after she was born in June. I feel so lucky to be able to make this trip with my husband. I guess like life, you have to take the good with the bad & YES cancer does have some good mixed in with all the bad. Have a great weekend & tell Alice thanks for all she does from another cancer survivor & a fellow health care worker.

Sent by Kathy | 12:08 PM ET | 07-26-2008

Hi Leroy,

God works in mysterious ways...I too am living with cancer -- DX with non-small cell lung cancer Stage IIIb, first scan on 2/26/08. My husband and I have traveled in and out of this country seeking treatment options and after weighing all options, I've decided to work on my immune system to reverse the acidic environment into an alkaline environment in my body. To date, after 3 CT scans, my tumor is shrinking and still no symptoms of lung cancer -- accidentally found from left shoulder xray. I have other non-small cell lung cancer email buddies who also started on this natural regiment and have achieved unbelievable results and had worse conditions than I. We all decided against conventional due to its not working with our immune system and keeping the cancer cells at bay.

I am female, never smoked, no medical history, but have inoperable lung cancer and will be 49 in August. I'm not promoting or trying to sell anyone anything. I hope this will get to you.

I will keep you in my prayers and pray that you will get this message -- there is a reason why I have this and I think it's to help others know about other alternatives.

Sent by Rose Dietrich | 3:52 PM ET | 07-26-2008

Hello, this is Judith Newkirk from Long Beach, CA, one of the many who pray frequently for you and the others.
I'll talk about "something else" this time. I, a person who was so afraid of flying, returned last night from seven flights in 17 days. First I attended the AFT convention in Chicago, then I visited family in Houston and Little Rock. Last stop was in Richmond, Indiana, for the Centennial T Party for the Model T Ford. Let's talk about that.
There were 928 Ts there, and 375 of them were in an amazing parade through town on Thursday afternoon, with many of the riders in period costume. What fun! There were nearly 1000 VolunTeers in town, wearing lime green "T" shirts, and ever so helpful in oh, so many ways.
I had a great time, but became a little misty now and then realizing how quickly time marches on, and recalling the stories of how my grandparents had driven from Iowa in a Model T Touring car in 1918 to settle with their baby in Los Angeles that year.
I have been checking up on you whenever a computer became available, every few days.
Take care, enjoy each day, and know you all remain in my prayers.
With loving thoughts,
Judith

Sent by Judith Newkirk | 5:04 PM ET | 07-27-2008