1 Year and Counting

12/29/2008

1 year and counting! Still Cancer Free, Alive and loving it!

God Bless and thank you all for your prayers!

I made it this far, I am not gonna stop now!

Talbott's New Year's RESOLUTIONS
1. KEEP ON KEEPING ON!
2. Never Forget Resolution #1 (for you NH Alums)

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!! 2009 is gonna ROCK!

Celebrate Life! I am. :)

Peace Out!

Musings and Hopes

12/21/08

Coming home from vacation, thinking too much. 7 days of sun, sea, and laughter with good friends. Christmas is coming, my health is good, and even the business is doing well.

So, what the hell? Why am I sitting here on this plane with tears flowing? Idle time is not my friend. Idle time tends to flip "the switch". Thinking about how that tumor changed my life and that of my families forever.

I didn't ask for this tumor, yet I can not complain. I look at who I have become in the last year in part due to this disease.

I am a stronger person, yet not afraid to show emotion. My fear is usually slapped away by a neverending feeling of hope that "Keeps me Keeping On"

My relationships with family and friends have strengthened. I don't take anything for granted.

So again, why am I crying? I am approaching a milestone in my life - 40 and more importantly, Cancer free for 12 months. Whatever the future brings, no one can take that away. 12/29/2007 - The day Dr. Denise Crute saved my life. The day I stopped taking life for granted and seeing it as the gift it is.

So, why the tears? This year, I have learned what the power of prayer means. I have learned that no matter what this Economy brings to never lose hope and pick ourselves up by our bootstraps and make it Happen! - Thanks to Jeff for your help on that one!

I really think the tears are those of pure joy. Tis the season, and every once in a while, it is therapeutic to reflect. Reflection shows you the past, and helps to illuminate the path forward.

So during this Christmas Season, take some time to reflect on the good & the challenges of this year. Pay attention to how those events have shaped your today. All politics aside - SHARE HOPE. Hope in each other, hope in the future, and live for today!

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to you and your families!

Peace

Madison Trip - Snow Day Redux

Went up to Madison for my monthly appt with Dr Ian to get my chemo drugs for the month. My Mom was scheduled to drive, but when we woke up to the Rain/Ice/Snow, we decided not to put her through that and opted for Kim to take a day off and drive.

As soon as we crossed the WI border, the snow pounced and we realized that we were not going to be home that night! Here we go again. So I dialed up the hotel at the UW Clinic and away we went. The 1.5 hr drive only took 3 hours. :)

We went to our appointments, of which went very well, my blood counts are perfect as Dr. Ian put it. Diana and I had to do the NeuroCognition Tests for the Clinical Trial. Spatial Recognition tests and memory tests. I ROCKED THEM! I have to take these test every 4 months during the clinical trial. They have become somewhat of a game, and Diana and I laugh alot during them...(Diana - I told you I would still remember at least 10 of them on Thursday - Bean, Corn, Potato, Lettuce - Tennis, Basketball, Golf, - and Engineer, Professor, Teacher, and Dentist!!!!! I GOT 11. ;) - You don't think I am not competitive do you? :)

Rock and Roll ...... this round of Chemo, and 2 more and I am done with CHEMO!!!! MRI is next month!

So after some tense time at the hotel trying to find someone to take care of our Dogs while we were trapped in Madison with parts of 90 closed, we were saved by Mendy!!! Thank you again for taking care of our dogs while we were stuck! She truly saved the day!

So Kim and I checked into the hotel, took advantage of the time and.... NAPPED! Woo Hoo!

The highlight of the day was when we walked down a block for dinner and had the best greasy bar burger in Madison! Go BLUE MOON!

18 Days until I am officially a Cancer Survivor!! 1 Year Post Surgery 12/29/2008. Thanks to your prayers and thoughts, I made it!!! Hope Lives!!

Peace Out!

Gratitudes

"Gratitude is an attitude where the mind and the heart unite in sincere appreciation. Throughout life, we experience great victories along with serious challenges. It is as though the good and the bad are in a constant battle to capture our thinking. In moments of clarity we remember… In all things be grateful… for as long as we live, we learn. That is what makes us better!" -Doyle Slayton

2008- My year of gratitudes

As you can imagine, I have alot to be thankful for. With Thanksgiving upon us, I feel compelled to share some of these thank you's to some people that have had an unbelievable impact on my life this year. Bare with me, but I need to list many of you out by name!

Dr. Zaheer- For having the foresight to recognize my symptoms as more than just an "inner ear infection" and send me to the hospital.

Dr. Crute- For your amazing skills as a surgeon and unending compassion that has proven to be one of the top reasons that I am still here.

Michelle- For the compassion that you brought into my room every day while I was in the hospital and taught me what Hope is all about.

Dr. Mehta & Dr. Robbins - Your team approach proves why you are ranked with the best in the world. You designed my Radiation and Chemo treatments to drive the success that I am having today and I am eternally grateful.

Jeff- For being there to support not only our business, but my family. There are no words that can adequately express my gratitude.

Marky P - For pulling together the greatest support group I could have imagined, creating a night to remember, and most importantly, for being there. It means more than I can say.

Lyle & Swan - For countless trips to Madison, reuniting old friendships, road tunes, and laughter. When I needed it most, you were both there. Enough Said.

Kim- For being my rock. It is what it is and we will deal with it - Together! A simple statement, but it has carried us both through the worst of times.

And so many more! From my family, to the amazing Talbott support group, to the nursing staffs, techs, and others at all of the medical facilities that I have been to in the last year, to those of you that encourage me with your comments on this blog. You have all been a huge part of my recovery!

My life is full of things to be thankful for, and I am sure by this point, you are thankful that his post is almost complete. :)

I could not let this Thanksgiving go by without sharing with you a small sample of how full of richness my life is because of all of these gratitudes. I am a better person because of what I have gone through and because of the people that have enriched my life in so many ways. For that, I am grateful! In these tough economic times, it is easy to forget all the things that we have to be thankful for, but this year has taught me to cherish every moment and believe in HOPE.

GOT HOPE? Share it with those you love!

Happy Thanksgiving to all, I wish you and your families a truly happy holiday.

Perspective is everything

David Bailey is a 30 something brain tumor survivor of over 12 years, and a musical artist. I have blogged about him before, his inspiration and music has been a big part of helping me keep my attitude positive. Here are two samples of David's work...His first song, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mhtHtURCIFs and a poem he recorded recently http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vVW2YdbKlmE&feature=related

This week David had a serious scare. He had another 8 centimeter mass removed on Thursday. He and his mother notified his fans via email. The first one announced that he had the tumor, the second announced the surgery date, and the third one gave us the results. He came out of the surgery great and should be home by Monday.

It was a strange and sad feeling when I heard the news. I have gotten to know this man through his music, and continue to lean on his music when I am in need. Watching him go through this scare from afar after 12 years as a survivor was a little rattling to say the least.

Selfishly, I thought back to my ordeal last December, which has been bouncing around in my head, avoiding the "switch" all week. Will a tumor come back to me? Is this what my life is going to be like? Will I have to deal with this forever? If it comes back, will I be able to fight it again?

Today, he sent an email personally to his fans, and I want to share it with you... This is why he inspires, he is known as the "Hope Guy" for a reason!!

I wasn't ready for another scar
I guess none of us ever are
They seem to take too long to heal
And as they do there's too much to feel
Scars are ugly - but can be fine
They only speak of some of the time
And yet they do also suggest
The passing of another test
The worst kind of test to take
Is one that lets your spirit break

I did not expect the weeping
Bless my soul this scar's for keeping
And when you see it, know this, friend
Although it's large, it's not the end
Fall down seven times, get up eight
Even if you hesitate.

A friend told me that hope's still alive.
Enough to wipe tears from your eyes?
you better believe it.

david m. bailey11-22-08

So, if that shit ever comes back to me, will I be able to fight it...YOU ARE DAMN RIGHT I WILL. "Fall Down seven times, and get up eight, even if you hesitate!" Those words will stick with me. Thank You David.

I would love to say that I am positive every minute of every day, but that would be a lie. The fear comes in waves and hits me like a brick, but all it takes is something like reading David's poem above to snap me out of it.

It is people like him, and the thoughts and prayers of all of you that show me that Hope is still alive. With Thanksgiving approaching, it is not hard to imagine what I am thankful for. Today, I am thankful for David Bailey's continued life and inspiration! Thank you David and congratulations on a successful surgery. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

More on Thanksgiving thoughts to come this week...I have a hell of a lot to be thankful for!

Peace Out!

The Hearts of Angels

I had to write tonight. I have been witness to an Angel at work...My niece Brianna.

I was wowed by her school program honoring veterans with my dad as one of the honorees earlier this week, but what she has done this weekend for a school project truly has me speechless.

Her project was to write a 5 paragraph "Story" about "a tomorrow". I have copied it below as it was written.

Here it is word for word:

Oh no! I just heard my Uncle Steve is in the hospital! This is so horrible!!!! How could this ever happen?! He has stage 4 brain cancer. His tomorrow is in danger.

When I heard the news, I started crying. I couldn't help it! He was so healthy. He is in the hospital right now. He already had his surgery. He has a scar shaped like a C. My brother and I always pray for him at night. We can't visit him now because I am sick. Soon we will visit him.

My Uncle Steve is still in the hospital. We keep trying to make him feel better with pictures, and drawing funny stuff, and coloring pictures. Alot of people visit him, like family and friends. We still haven't visited him yet. I can't wait to feel better so I can see him.

We finally saw my Uncle Steve today. He still has cancer. Almost every 2 months Uncle Steve has an MRI. He is still healthy and happy.

The lesson I learned from Uncle Steve's cancer is don't give up and keep trying. With a bit of support from your family, your tomorrow will be good and filled with love.

Wow! Brings tears to my eyes every time I read it.

Thank you Brianna. Thanks to you, my tomorrow will definitely be good and filled with love!!

It never ceases to amaze me...the power I get every day from the support of others - family and friends, and every once in a while...beautiful words from an angel.

--Brianna, if I have any pull with your teacher, you will get an "A" ! :)

Veteran's Day/MRI Day...

Veteran's Day

Thank you to all of our men and women of the military, past and present. We appreciate what you have done for us. Thank you to my Dad for his service to the Navy, to our Country in WWII, and to our family. Today is Veteran's Day, a day to thank everyone that has served in the armed services, and for me, another chance to thank my Dad for his part in making me who I am. Thank You Dad!

MRI Day

Sing along with me.... "It's off to see the wizard...the wonderful wizard of the tube" (ie MRI)... We knew it was going to be a great day for my 5th Post Radiation MRI. Kim had the day off, we had to go to Madison, and the forecast was for SNOW/RAIN Mix...yippee yippee. :)

So we got up early and started our trek north...turns out...it was worth the hassle.

To sum up the MRI results, I will phrase it the way Dr. Ian did... ROCK SOLID! Ok so to work down my checklist of living... Get a clean bill of health from my 5th Post Radiation MRI, and begin my 9th (of 12) cycles of Chemo... CHECK!, CHECK! WOO HOO!

Short Post tonight, but I wanted to pass on the good news and say thanks!

Peace Out!

Oops I forgot...

My apologies for not writing this entire month! I got caught up in that living thing again... I get so caught up in living that I sometimes forget that I have brain cancer. :) Oh isn't that just too bad! :)

Seriously, I have been feeling great! I bitch and moan about allergies, but my Mom and my Wife just write that off to me being a whiner...which could be a little true..."Big Damn Baby" I think is the term often used about me. :) And last time up to Madison, they even got Dr. Robbins in on the act...He asked my Mom if "I whined alot" and after my Mom stopped laughing, she informed him that I have a "low threshhold for pain"

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Talbott Time Machine circa 25 yrs ago, aka the "Jello Brain" years

Now the story on this goes back to middle school and AYSO Soccer games. My parents were convinced that I was a Drama Queen and every time I would get hit, I would fall to the ground and writhe with pain...In reality, it is because it probably hurt. Now granted, my father is allergic to all pain meds and in addition to walking up hill barefoot both ways to school, only gets to bite on a silver bullet for pain...in otherwords...he has a very high threshold for pain. Both my Mom and Kim fight Migraines and can function with headaches, etc... Me....HELL NO...GIVE ME DRUGS AND KNOCK MY ASS OUT! Hence...I accept it...I have a low threshhold for pain. :) Now back to your regularly scheduled program.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Ok...back to current day. Things have been going great. I was just matched up by Jonny Imerman (Imerman Angels) with a young woman who at 36 was diagnosed with a GBM and her husband. They are just beginning the Chemo phase with Temodar and Jonny thought I would be a match to connect with. I am really looking forward to being able to share my experiences, my attitude, and the perspective that each of you have helped me to develop! She is just beginning the fight with this disease and I hope that I am able to help them both through this challenging time!

So, although I haven't written lately, and I keep getting myself all caught up in this business of living...realize that all of you collectively known as the "Talbott Support Group" have created something special in me that I fall back on often to guide me through dark times.

Thank You all again!

PEACE OUT!

Dr.s and Angels

After every MRI, I am supposed to meet with my Neurosurgeon, Dr. Crute. These meetings as I have blogged before are always uplifting. I met with her on Monday and this time was no exception. First and foremost, she pointed out the Hippocampus and I was shocked that it wasn't a little guy in a furry costume (see last 2 entries to get the joke. :) )

Dr. Crute was fantastic as usual, she explained that she was late getting to our appt because she had to spend so much time looking at the MRIs, she is still just amazed that I am as stable as I am considering the tumor that I had. She looked and looked and couldn't find any changes...how cool is that! We talked about the future and that future keeps getting further and further out. Yeah! I like the sound of that.

As an added bonus, I was finally able to see Michelle, Dr. Crute's surgical nurse/PA who I haven't seen since I left the hospital. Now there is significance to that fact. I have not really blogged about Michelle before, but let me tell you she was a savior of mine. She was the one person who consistently checked on my several times a day at the hospital. She was the first person who told me NOT TO BELIEVE THE BULLSHIT that the house resident gave me about "getting my things in order" and I had 6-18 months. For that, I owe Michelle alot. She helped get my head around my diagnosis (no pun inteneded). So it was really cool to see her. I ran up and gave her a great big hug! I get emotional just thinking about it. Thanks Michelle!

That emotion was met with more emotion as I had the opportunity to connect directly with Jonny Imerman. Jonny is a mid 20's 6+ year survivor of testicular cancer and the founder of Imerman Angels, which is an organization that matches one on one cancer fighters with cancer survivors for mentoring and support. As I relived the story of my quest through cancer treatment, I got emotional as I told him about the "night to remember" event that you all through for me with Marky P at Cliffbreakers. I explained to him that I don't know how I would have every made it to the point I am at now without the love and support of my amazing wife Kim, my family, and my support group...YOU!

Jonny started this organization to help people who don't have that love and support. Jonny has added me to the list to help another Brain Tumor patient on a one on one basis. I can't wait to pass on the learning that I have had, the inspiration that I have received from Dr. Crute, and Michelle, and most of all the love and support that I have received from each and every one of you! It's now time to Pay it Forward.

PEACE OUT!

For those of you reading this that may have been touched personally by cancer in your lives, I encourage you to reach out to Imerman Angels, they can match you with someone that has survived your cancer and can help you do the same. www.imermanangels.com or call Rynell Cook at (312) 274-5529. There is no cost, just help.

If you want to help in another way, please consider donating, and donate in honor of your loved one who is fighting this horrible disease called cancer.

Getting Involved!!

I have recently had the opportunity to connect with other brain tumor survivors through a couple different online services. One is through a LinkedIN group called Immerman Angels. The Imerman Angels are a group of people dedicated to the support of people with cancer. Here is a blurb straight from their website...(http://www.imermanangels.org/)

Imerman Angels connects a person fighting cancer today ("cancer fighter") with someone who has beaten the same type of cancer ("cancer survivor"). The relationship provides a fighter the opportunity to ask personal questions and receive encouragement from someone who is uniquely familiar with the situation. The relationship provides a survivor the opportunity to personally help a fighter as he or she battles the disease

I found these guys and joined their online group, while in the normal course of business using an online networking tool called LinkedIN, which in essence is the MYSpace or Facebook for business networking.

What a great organization and concept. As I have been going through this treatment & healing process, I have been blessed with an amazing support team. A group of people that keep me strong, keep me fighting, and keep me sane! What I have found is that not everyone has the amazing level of strength of a support group that I do.

I can't imagine facing the battle OF and FOR your life without support!

I am in the process of becoming one of Immerman's Angels. I want to be able to directly connect with people that are fighting the same Cancer that I am fighting. I want to be able to channel the power that each of you have given me to give to others.

As you can see, I am extremely excited about this opportunity. I have wanted to give back by working with other Cancer Fighters. I have finally found a way to do that in a one on one basis!

I will find out more about the organization and the process to get involved over the next week. I will let you know what I find. Wish me luck, as this could be the way to share the power that each of you gave me with others who are in need.

Thank you to all who have given me the strength to get to this point!

Check these guys out...its a pretty cool organization! http://www.imermanangels.org/

Peace Out!

PS. By the way, I know the first thing I will share with other CANCER Fighters...How to get around...the "Cool Way" SCOOTERS RULE!

Health Update!

I apologize for not writing more often, but I have been caught up in NORMALITY...Not sure if that is a word, but what the heck!

So last Wednesday night, Kim and I had a remake of the "Snow Days" from Jan/Feb and went up to Madison and stayed at the hotel next to the "Brain Clinic". We of course got our standard UPGRADE and stayed in what Kim and I call...the Cloud Room! Great room with a comfy bed, and a nice LCD Flat Screen.

We did this, for a reason, and not because we like to vacation in Madison... :). The reason was my latest MRI. The MRI was at 7:15am, and I had to check in at 6:45am so we decided to go up early. We got to the hotel, checked in, and then hung out and watched TV...what an exciting get away...

The getaway did have a great ending, however, here it is straight from the MRI Report

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The current MRI is compared with the prior MRI July 24, 2008.

Findings:
Stable exam. Stable postoperative change or right middle cranial fossa. New mass or abnormal enhancement is not identified. Stable white matter changes in the right hemisphere. There is nonenhancing high signal which persists at the inferior aspect of the right frontal lobe, extending posteriorly along the surgical margin, to involve the HIPPOCAMPUS. These regions are also stable. Stable ventricular system.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ok, now that you have all had your Medical Terminology lesson for today, I will give extra credit for anyone that can tell me what the hell a Hippocampus is, and what the hell it is doing in my head. :) Dem Smart Docs tell me it means that I am ROCKING AND ROLLING along this healing process!

Seriously, I am mid stream on cycle 7 of Temodar. I have 5 more cycles after this one, and I have 3 more months until I hit the 1 YEAR MARK! Life is not good, it is FANTASTIC!!

PS...the above means...I am doing great, and that Dr. Crute continues to be my hero, and the greatest Neurosurgeon on the planet! :)

I promise to get back in the swing and write more often, but as you can tell I am loving living!

PEACE OUT!

***********************************EDITOR's NOTES**************************************

WE HAVE A WINNER! I have already received my first correct response as to what a HIPPOCAMPUS IS...Thank You Val! See Below! (NOTE THE GUY IN THE TENT)

Not to be out done, Mr. Mark Patrick has found a picture of the University of Talbott Hippo-Campus...See Below.

Health and Friends

This has been a big week. I will start with a health update. Met with Dr. Ian on Tuesday. This was just a check up and to get my Chemo pills for the month. He says that I am doing great! I am in my 6th cycle of chemo (Temodar) and have 6 more to go. We talked alot about how treatment will go forward. After 6 more cycles, I will be done with Chemo. I will continue to get scans every 2-3 months indefinitely. The goal again of this disease is to make it chronic so we just treat it forever. Dr. Ian described it in a great way. "The goal of my treatment is to make this disease chronic and treatable, like diabetes or heart disease. The only difference is that after 5 years of no reoccurence, Heart Disease, and Diabetes aren't considered cured...Brain Cancer is." He said that on his way out the door. When one of North America's Top Neuro Oncologists talks of hope and promise for my Brain Cancer prognosis....I tend to listen. :) So, I am Feeling Great, Loving Life, and growing healthier with every DAY!

I left Madison on Tuesday, only to pack up my Chemo Drugs and get on a plane on Wednesday for a working trip to Dallas, TX and the New Horizons International Conference.

Now, I have been involved with New Horizons internally, or as a partner for 9 or 10 years. Every year, this conference has been a summer ritual. Many of the people of New Horizons that I have met over the years have become my friends and mentors. They have helped me to grow as a leader and as a sales professional.

So when I arrived this year, I expected to see the same conference and atmosphere that I see every year. I underestimated the reach of my friend Marky P. Through his communication of my condition and journey, he has reached a huge contingent of my New Horizons friends.

The reception that I have received has been amazing! I run into people in the halls, and the outpouring of true good wishes and emotion has been tremendous. For those of you that are reading this that I have had an opportunity to see this week....THANK YOU. I can not tell you how good it feels to be here and to see good friends. It is things like this in life that makes me realize how rich my life has been and continues to be. You all give me strength!

NOW FOR ALL OF YOU AT NH.... SHOULDN'T YOU BE READING SOME RECORDS!! :)

Free to Ride

As has been the case for months, my doctor has put restrictions on my ability to drive. This has been a severely limiting restriction. I have had to burden the people I work with, friends, and Kim to allow me to get to Business Appts, Dr. Appts, and just out of the house errands.

I understand the rationale from the Doctor's perspective. They are afraid that I will have a seizure while driving (although I have not had one to date) and cause an accident. The biggest reason that I honor the Dr's wishes is that I don't want to take the chance of hurting someone else.

It is what it is, is our mantra, so I continue to follow his wishes. Dem Smart Docs know what they are doing. I am LIVING proof. :)

With the summer rolling through, the only chance I have to let my hair blow in the wind is riding my lawn mower!

But then it hit me! The doc is ok with me riding the lawn mower, and riding the golf cart, so why not a Scooter? Hell, my lawn mower has a bigger motor.

Now we had this idea several months ago, but never proceeded down the path. We have finally done it. Kim and I have purchased 2 - 49.5cc scooters! They are perfect for a trip in town down to the coffee shop, the gym, and even the ice cream shoppe. I think I could ride my bike faster than the scooter goes, but what the hell, I am FREE to get out of the house and let the wind blow in my HAIR! Did I mention I was bald?

So as a tribute to my new freedom, I asked a couple of friends to take a ride with me. We got a picture of it and I thought I would share. I hope you enjoy.

Peace out!

ENUFF SAID. When I stop Laughing, I will write a little more about the scooter.

The Year of Still Here!

"The Year of Still Here" is the slogan of the 2008 Jimmy Buffett tour. I don't think I could have written a better slogan based on my life circa 2008. :)

Kim and I were lucky enough to get tickets with a couple of our good friends to see the show last night. After almost 20 years of going to Jimmy Buffett shows, not much suprises me, but as soon as I saw the slogan when we got to the parking lot, I was FLOORED! Freaks and Fins on Parade, (of which Kim and I have been many times in past years) didn't phase me, but the irony of the slogan blew me away- The Year of Still Here, I can soooo relate. :)

It was a great show. You would think that after 38 years of touring every summer, that he might slow down, but if last night was any indication, he just gets better! After almost 3 hours of a show led by the king of summer himself, the 60 something Jimmy promised to be back for another summer! Kim and I are already making our plans!

The Year of Still Here! I think the Talbotts may have to adopt this slogan for our remaining 2008 Vacation Plans.

Talbott's on Tour 2008 - THE YEAR OF STILL HERE!

Doesn't quite have the ring that Jimmy puts to it, but it will definitely do!!

FINS TO THE LEFT!

An Inspiration passes, but his spirit is alive!

Today, Randy Pausch, the Carnegie Mellon Professor who gave the famous "Last Lecture" passed away. His lecture was about living and dreaming. I have written about the impact on me in earlier blogs, but needless to say the news hit me pretty hard today.

His energy and love of life and dreaming has been a huge inspiration to me. I truly feel for his family - Wife and 3 young children, but I am confident that he lived EVERY last moment he had with them and will continue to be with them in spirit forever.

His passing saddens me today as I think about what his family is going through. That sadness has begun to pass, because I know that Randy Pausch would not stand for it! He would want us to keep looking forward, keep dreaming, and keep living and cherishing every moment as he did.

Although Randy Pausch has passed from this Earth, I know his inspiration will live within the millions of people that he touched with his amazing lecture and unbreakable spirit. I know it will with me!

Thank you for the inspiration Mr. Pausch.

The results are in

Ok...my 3rd post radiation MRI Day has come and gone! The Results...Stable, no enhancement and no progression!

In other words, Results that I can LITERALLY LIVE with!!! Woo Hoo!

Our Clinical Trial coordinator made a point to say how good the resection was (the surgery to remove the tumor). Dr. Crute, once again proves that she is a ROCKSTAR!

It still amazes me what she accomplished. She not only removed the tumor, but had to untangle and rewire the blood flow. 11 Hours and 38 minutes of surgery.

Dr. Crute set the stage by removing as much of the GBM (Tumor) that was humanly possible, Dr. Mehta then took aim with the radiation beam and killed anything remaining, and Dr. Robbins is keeping me stable with Chemotherapy. I have to admit...I am one of the luckiest guys on the planet to have a crew of doctors who are so good! Dem Docs sure are smart!! :)

So, with all that in mind, its hard to express what I am feeling at this moment... MRI is clean, Cubs are in 1st Place and Jimmy Buffett is playing on Saturday. What more could I really ask for? World Peace? Not until we get that Republican out of office. :)

Ok, now that I have offended my parents, Republican Friends, and Sox Fan friends...I think I will call it a night.

Just wanted to drop a quick note tonight to tell you how well I am feeling and share the amazing results of our MRI today! 6 cycles down, 6 more to go. So, unlike the Sox, I am batting 1.000. :) (Sorry Marky...couldn't resist) ;)

Thank you all for your continued prayers, they continue to work!

Miss Ava says... GO CUBS!

Enjoying Time with Friends!

Its funny how sometimes things in life can seem so DAUNTING! This Economy, Work, Bills, Money, Family, Health, etc...

But I tell you what...the cure is simple!! Spend a weekend with some friends at a beautiful lake home on a beautiful lake and Laugh your ass off for 2 straight days! It's amazing how much better you feel Monday Morning...Unless you are Bonnie and Kim who gave "Big Mable the Tube" the ride of its life. :) Then you might have a couple of sore muscles today. :)

If you can't guess by now, that is what we did this weekend. Our Hockey/Cruise Crew (4 Couples) got together at Craig and Sue's for a unbelievable weekend. Relaxing, Laughing and having a great time...I don't know if it counts as Driving, but I gave that Waverunner a hell of a ride! :)

Kim and I being typical workaholics haven't taken many breaks over the years...no annual vacations, just a trip here or there... every couple years. After the last six months, you would think Kim and I were making up for lost time! :) Key West, Sue & Craig's, Cruise already booked for later this year!! Woo Hoo. :) What the hell, life is short might as well get out and enjoy ever minute! Just for a little more practice, Kim's sister invited us up to her lake house in 2 weeks. Even get to break out my Fishing Gear!

We have a couple weekends open between now and the end of the season...we might do some yardwork, but don't hold your breath. :)

As Jimmy Buffett says... WHAT A GREAT WAY TO FORGET ABOUT LIFE FOR A WHILE!!!! Thanks again Craig and Sue!!

Next MRI, Thursday...will let you all know how CLEAN IT IS!!!!

Peace Out!

A Sense of Community -

As a quick health update, before the topic of the day- :) , I feel fantastic, back to working out fairly regularly, the weather has been wonderful, and I was able to spend a few hours this weekend playing with my nephews Will and AJ at the Discovery Center, which is an interactive Kids Museum in Rockford. We had a blast, but boy did those kids where us out. I thought I was in decent shape until I tried to keep up with a 4 year old. :)

AN UPDATE from the last post - Gil had his surgery and it went well. He is home and recovering well! If you get a chance, wish him well on his blog http://gil.wolchock.blogspot.com. His Blog is always a great read and inspiring! Glad to hear you are up and around my friend.

As I approach my next visit to the "Tube" (MRI) on the 24th, my mind has started to wander back into the Cancer thinking realm. Not typically a fun place, but this time, I decided to reach out and find other GBM survivors to network with. I found a great website with message boards that I can communicate directly with GBM survivors and caregivers. It is a great little outlet for me to read about what others are going through, give advice, share my feelings, and realize how lucky I am to be doing as well as I am. I am truly blessed and this new outlet has given me a place to help others as well as help myself. Its a little thing, but those little things have amazing power!

So all in all, things are fantastic! I am happy and healthy, and grateful.

Go Cubs! from the admitted Bandwagon Fan and Peace Out from Miss Ava who is battling the split personality half Sox Fan, half Cubs Fan family. :)

Get your things in order....CHECK!

While I was in the hospital, after surgery, we had to wait a couple days for the results of the pathology report on the tumor. One of the Hospital's inhouse Doctors, whose name I don't remember, but face I won't forget is the one who broke the news to me that I had a Grade 4 Glioblastoma Multiforme- The "Worst Kind" in his words.

He made a statement that has stuck with me and is finally 100% complete as of today! When I asked him how much time I had left, he was smart enough not to give me a specific timeline, but added that I needed to "Get my things in order", which I took to mean that I needed to get my shit together so that if I die, I don't leave a mess for my family and my business partner to unravel. The first step was getting a Will in place, which we accomplished a few months ago, and the final step was getting things documented for our business to ensure a solid transition. We finally made that happen today! It was like this HUGE rock has been lifted from my shoulders! Get Your Things In Order- CHECK!

Ok...on to the next step...Blow out the "Curve" of all these clinical trials and "Live Long and Prosper!!!". :) Live Hear, Right Now! Life is GREAT!!

Here are some of the reasons why-

1. Spent some time with my parents yesterday, and had some one on one time with my Dad that I truly enjoyed...just talking about his projects in their woods at their house.
2. Kim and I got out to play a little golf on the 4th with our brother in-law. Company was fun, my golf game sucks, but whats new.... :)
3. Kim and I didn't miss an event of the US Olympic Swimming trials, which, with both of us being former swimmers is something we really enjoyed! I figure if 41 year old Dara Torres can beat all of the younger challengers and break the American record in the 50m, then my 39yr old fat ass can beat some wimpy tumor.

As my friend Gil recently put in his blog http://gilwolchock.blogspot.com/ , "sometimes it's the little things in life that give you the greatest enjoyment". I totally agree!

On a side note, If you have a moment, log on to his blog and give him some positive thoughts...He is having some reconstructive knee surgery this week and would appreciate the positive energy as much as I do when I read your comments! Keep em coming!

Thank you and Peace Out!!

A Sunny Getaway

Ok...I admit....the last 6 months have been a little mentally draining on Kim and I. :) (quite possibly could be the understatement of the year)

Kim and I had the opportunity to get away last weekend to Key West for a couple days at a Bed and Breakfast along with some time in the Sun! What a wonderfully relaxing trip! We accomplished EVERY ONE of our critical missions...

1. Sit in Sun by Pool/Beach with Book. CHECK!
2. Swim in Pool/Gulf to cool off as needed. CHECK!
3. Wander the island and shop for goofy Jimmy Buffett stuff and related swag. CHECK!
4. Relax. Relax. Relax. CHECK!
5. Forget about everything in the real world and BE NORMAL for a little while and enjoy each other for a few days. CHECK!

To kick off the trip, Kim and I met with Dr. Crute (my amazing surgeon) on Wed afternoon before we left. She reviewed the latest MRI from May. She was incredibly happy with the results! We then spent the next hour celebrating, laughing, and talking about good things! Dr. Crute has an amazing talent in helping us put everything in perspective. We both look forward to our visits with her. They truly brighten our day!

With Every passing day, I appreciate more and more the time that I have. I am ALIVE and Kicking and LIVING every minute! I know I sound like a broken record, but it is amazing how my outlook changes and improves every day. I find myself being alot more sentimental, and smiling for no reason other than I am just truly happy! Anger is an emotion that rarely pops its head. I love looking back at good things, and I am also looking forward further and further ahead!

I promised at the start of this blog to share my thoughts and feelings during this journey. Believe it or not, the dominant feeling I have is happiness. Happy to be alive, happy to be working, happy to have the friends and family that I do, and Happy to have been able to have had this last weekend to spend with my wife. And most of all, happy to think of the good things yet to come!

PEACE OUT!

6 Months Later...

Next Friday, June 27th will mark 6 months since my diagnosis with a Brain Tumor. With a little help from the best surgeon in the world, along with the support of my family, and my awesome support group led by my friend Marky P, and my wife, Kim who helped prop it all up, I am still here! Alive and Kicking and feeling better than ever.

I don't believe in looking backward except to celebrate, so this little trip back over the last six months is my way of celebrating each of you who in your own way helped me become what I am today... A CANCER SURVIVOR...

When I think back, I still smile and get a little emotional thinking about...

1. Opening my eyes after 12 hours of surgery to my wife's smile.
2. Lyle bringing Jimmy Johns to the crowd waiting during my surgery...
3. the "Livestrong" bracelets that Kev & Deb left for me while I was sleeping
4. The books that were sent to me by my dear friends... Gene, Beth, and Jeff - that helped build the fight in me.
5. Lyle calling Swan...enough said.
6. The drives to Madison with Swan, Lyle, Mom, and the snowy ones with Kim....ie SNOW DAYS!
7. Using this Blog to say what I have wanted to say for years to my Dad and explain to him that what he has done for me means so much to me and how much I love him.
8. Becoming closer to my Mom than I have ever been, and the Laughter that we shared that has helped me heal. :)
9. Watching Jeff keep our business up and running during my downtime...
10. Seeing my friend create one of the most special nights I have ever had (See "a night to remember, and night I will never forget) Gene put it best...Mark P you are an angel sent from heaven to us all! I think of the vision of walking in the room at Cliffbreakers and seeing 50 people from throughout my life there to wish me well...every day!!!
11. The wonderful techs at UW Madison who managed my Radiation Schedule
12. Getting the opportunity to see how I have touched people throughout my professional life through their own words. I am still so moved by MJ Wilcox and his words that I review them often.
12. To my AMAZING Surgeon - Dr. Crute who saved my life and who I can't wait to see on Wed to show her the great results of my 2nd post radiation MRI!!!

There are many more things that I could celebrate...for more detail...read back in this documentary of my journey...I am doing all that I can to ensure I leave nothing unsaid.

Thank you once again to everyone...continue to SHARE HOPE! It works!

Peace Out!

New Source of Strength

Just a short post to let you know that I am feeling absolutely fabulous! I am exercising several times a week and I truly feel as good as ever!

Wanted to share something that has become another source of strength for me. I only found this source a few days ago, but it has had a huge impact on me!

David M. Bailey is a Brain Tumor Survivor of 12+ years now, a singer/songwriter, and someone who has been coined "The Hope Guy". I met him at the American Brain Tumor Assoc. conference, but didn't really look him up until earlier this week. His music and lyrics are inspiring.

I am including two You Tube links of 2 different songs that represent me the most. Can you figure out which one represents me the most? :)

The Links are safe and tested. Please enjoy and let me know what you think. You may or may not like the music, but listen to the words. It truly has me inspired me....NOT TO SING...YOU DON'T WANT THAT, but Hope Does Run ETERNAL.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FiV0SsKVUbk

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

Check out his site http://www.davidmbailey.com/ for his bio and more about his music.

Please do tell me what you think. I hope you enjoy it as much as I have.

MRI Results...

Radiologist Impression of TALBOTT MRI as of 5/27/08:

1. Stable postoperative changes without evidence of recurrent or residual tumor surrounding the right temporal resection cavity.

ENGLISH TRANSLATION....MY MRI IS CLEAN AS A WHISTLE!!! No Tumor reoccurrence!

Another major landmark passes! Next major landmarks, 1 year, 2 year, and 5 year!

So for those of you watching at home that puts the score at...

The Greatest Surgeon in the World, a few more of Dem Smart Docs, and all the thoughts and prayers from the Talbott Support Group - 2
Stupid Brain Cancer Cells - 0

We are still in the first period, but we are KICKING ITS ASS! :)

(we just have to keep our head up cause we know the big C (cancer) doesn't play fair and will throw a cheap shot to anyone getting too cocky)

==========================================

Ok, so if you were having trouble and can't figure out my language above, Kim and I went to Madison bright and early this morning for a 6:45am MRI followed by my normal blood test and a meeting with Dr. Ian.

The results were outstanding! No recurrence of the tumor, and stability with the "secondary" area of focus! That is the exact thing we wanted to hear! Dr. Ian explained that we passed another major landmark with this MRI. The stats are really good for people who do this well at this point. The next major landmark is 1 year, then 2 years, then 5 years.

I am still doing the Oral Chemo (Temodar) 5 days out of every 28 days. We will continue that for probably another 9 cycles. I am responding well and we want to keep it up!! I will keep getting MRIs every 2 months throughout this first year. The goal is to keep up at the same pace! NO RECURRENCE, STABILITY with the other Secondary Focus. I would be ok if we said that every 2 months for the next 50 years---cause the more they keep saying it, the more I get to keep chugging!

So, if I sound "HIGH ON LIFE", it's because I am...ALIVE and loving every minute!

Thank you all again for you thoughts and prayers. I am living proof that they are working!

PEACE OUT!

Sharing Hope

This weekend Kim and I attended an American Brain Tumor Association Patient event in Chicago. The event was called Sharing Hope..for 35 Years. It was held all day Saturday, so Kim went in Friday night to keep from having to get up at the crack of dawn.

The first breakout session at this conference was a meet and greet in which they broke the participants in 2 groups...those in treatment and those after treatment.

Kim and I obviously went to the in treatment session. The room had about 40-50 people, patients and caregiver/support person.

Each person was given the mike to introduce themselves and tell a little bit about themselves and their story. The purpose was for people to be able to connect later throughout the day with people of similar interests. Needless to say, it was a pretty amazing and emotional hour.

The first person to speak was probably in his mid 40's, and he has had a Glioblastoma (what I have) for 21 years!! He has tried alot of the medications and treatments over the years and is currently doing Temodar, which is what I am doing. He has had 8 reoccurrences and surgeries over the years, and his advice to everyone was to keep humor in your life! WOW!

We continued around the room some people celebrating one year, 2 years or more, having dealt with reoccurences and multiple rounds of treatment.

One 23 year old kid told his story of having a GBM removed and going through treatment. Treatment seems to be going well, and he is looking forward to living out one of his dreams of doing a triathalon this summer.

The one thing other than Brain Tumors that each and every person in that room had in common was HOPE. It was pretty neat to see that many people in the same room in the same situation.

We went from that session right into the general session which combined both groups and equaled around 150-200 people. The general session was comprised of a series of speakers on topics from treatments, after treatment care, "The New Normal", to Diet, and a Q&A session. It was very informative and I especially appreciated the session on "The New Normal". It was aptly named and reinforced alot for me.

It doesn't take long to cheer yourself up at an event like this. Everyone around is so full of life and hope.

I am so happy that I went to this event. It gave me even more reason to continue on my path and continue to LIVE AND LAUGH!! HOPE is a pretty beautiful word!

For some pretty amazing stories about people with Brain Tumors who chose LIFE... Check out this page from the American Brain Tumor Assoc. Site... http://hope.abta.org/sharinghopestories

I would advise Kleenex or Puffs. :) But Tears are Cleansing Right? :)

PEACE OUT!

Mother's Day

With Mother's Day's happening yesterday, I thought I would spend a little time on this subject as it relates to my mother and her impact on me.

My mother has endured a pretty amazing emotional roller coaster ride in the last several months...From the depths of despair & shock, as I call her from the ER and say "Oh by the way, I am at the Hospital...they say I have a Tumor, to the Fear of my surgery and eventual diagnosis, to our current reality....Lots of Laughter! So, I think it is only fair to spend a little time on this special person in my life.

When I said our current reality....Lots of Laughter, I figure I better explain. One of the positive outcomes of my whole recovery process is that my Mom and I talk about every other day. Inevitably we start talking about something that just gets us laughing! My mom and I laughing can be a pretty infectious environment and it always brightens my day.

The latest topic is a computer that I attempted to build for her. After a series of issues, my mom has the partially built PC. Now is where the Keystone cops routine comes in. Several weeks later and several hundred $ later, my mom has a pile PC parts and the local Computers for Schools group has the rest. I think my mom and I could have created a movie short called "The Keystone PC Hacks try to build a computer"

Laughter aside, my mom and I have always had a special relationship. When I think back over the years, it is always the fun things that I remember. Like my mom coming to Iowa State Univ and my Fraternity when I was a Freshman for Mom's weekend. The laughter was really out of control after she got hammered on 2 glasses of wine and started telling stories about me to my Pledge Dad and his Mother. It took me a year to live that one down. :) The second best part of that weekend was she took me grocery shopping!!! For a freshman at college, that was huge...and she used her "hidden cash" to buy it, so Dad wouldn't find out. (OOPS Sorry for outing you Mom...Dad should forgive....it was 20 years ago.)

Its little things like that I think of when i think of my Mom. Memories like these and other little things like the fact that if I have ever been hurt or anywhere near a hospital, she has been there! And no matter what the situation, the two of us can find something to laugh about. I guess that's where I learned to grasp at the "Good Stuff" all the time.

So this is my tribute to my mom on Mother's Day. (A day late and a dollar short as usual)
Mom - Happy Mother's Day, I love you, and thanks for always keeping me laughing!

Hanging onto the "good stuff" continued

To follow up on my last post, I have compiled some "good stuff" to share.

First, I want to thank all of you that donated to Kim and I on our MS Walk 2008. We had a great time, Kim was able to see some of the resources available to her. Kim's Mom, sister, nieces, and nephew joined us on the walk. We had a great day hanging out and walking at the Arboretum in Rockford. It was a gorgeous day! Here is a pic of Kim and her walking team. I am there, just behind the camera. :)

So I think this event will definitely become an annual event for us. Next year, we will build a team and build it up. Thanks Steph, Brytt, Lori, Greta, and Jesse for coming out and joining us and thank you again to all of you who donated. We really appreciated it.

So, while I was enjoying the "good stuff" yesterday, I started thinking about some other good stuff, one of my friends that was at my party sent me some of the pics he took. So in honor of celebrating the good stuff in life, I wanted to share these pics from the party...

Now this is true Laughter...laughter that only comes from the heart! Mark and I sharing some "good stuff"

Another form of happiness. Tears of Joy, Mark and I reminicing, and my wife showing tears of happiness for all the love and support she is seeing for me. She is showing exactly what I was feeling at that moment. I get choked up now just seeing this picture. My rock for the three months of surgery and treatment and the head of my support team let some of their happiness tears show. It makes my heart happy to know how happy they are right there. Tears are cleansing right? (Kim-I know you don't like this picture, but I love you and wanted everyone to see another reason why.)

Kim and I, and darling Miss Ava...Who is not really sure what to make of all the good stuff she is seeing, nor having Uncle Teeb take her away from Mommy.

A bunch of wanna be poker playas enjoying the good stuff!

Thank you all that came to this event. It brings tears of joy to my eyes just remembering! I promise to post more pictures as I get them.

Don't forget to focus on the GOOD STUFF!! Life is alot more fun that way.

PEACE OUT!!

IT is what IT is.

IT is what IT is...a simple statement. A statement that has gotten Kim and I through more than many thought we could handle.

Our latest drama involves my wife Kim. About two years ago, my wife came down with something called OpticNeuritis. It caused temporary blindness in her right eye. It cleared up on its own, but through the course of Dr. appts, we learned that this is a common symptom of MS or Multiple Sclerosis. Now at the time, we chose not to do an MRI, because our Neurologist at the time said it would be inconclusive. Well a few weeks ago, Kim had the MRI done and her local Neurologist found a number of lesions on her brain and diagnosed it as MS.

We have known this for a couple weeks. The reason I have not blogged about it earlier was our fear of how people react when they hear "MS". MS is a very misunderstood disease. You probably know someone that has MS and don't even know it. It is a very common disease, and its a disease you CAN live with. Kim is starting a therapy called ReBiff that is a maintenance injection 3 days per week (kind of like an insulin shot). The purpose is to manage the symptoms in the short term and restrict the growth of the lesions in the brain, thus keeping the disease at bay as long as possible. As her Neurologist explains it...we are treating the disease now to help 20 years from now.

So, IT is what IT is. People have asked us both..."How can you handle all of this...from your Brain Tumor, to Kim's MS" Well, what else are we supposed to do? Sit around and Cry alot? Hell No that isn't going to happen...neither one of us are very good cryers.

The fact is We are alive, we love each other, we love our family and friends, we love what we do and we are choosing to LIVE! To us, there is no other choice. At least not one that is logical. :)

Life comes at you at a pretty fast clip. If you are not careful, the good stuff flys right by, and the bad stuff seems to hang out. Its like that optical illusion of the OLD WOMAN AND THE YOUNG WOMAN...depending on what angle you focus, the image changes.



You want to know how Kim and I do it? We keep changing our angle of perception. We are looking for the goodstuff and let the bad stuff fly right on by! This is a picture of us hanging on to the goodstuff!! :)

I am constantly inspired by my wife. This exercise reinforces that. It was a tough choice for her to disclose her MS diagnosis, but she is committed to show people that MS is something she has, not WHO she is!

She has MS, she is not defined by MS. She will not allow it to define her.

I have Brain Cancer, I am not defined by Brain Cancer. I will not allow it to define me.

If you were wondering where I get my inspiration, just look at the person in the picture next to me.

To put it in Kim's words... "That is just how we ROLL!"

If anyone would like to join us in our latest Journey, we will be walking together in the MS Walk 2008 in Rockford this Sunday, May 4th. Each and every one of you are welcome to join us! Send me a note or post a comment for more info.

PEACE OUT!

Spring is in the air...FINALLY

Ok, this Winter officially goes down as the longest Winter in History. The weather has finally begun to change! Now, I have always been a fan of change, and I have built my business on managing client's change. I am enjoying the change in weather, but another change has me a little disturbed.

To explain, I first need to let you know that this weekend, I had an old fashioned Poker Party at my house. All the old players were there from years ago when we played on a regular basis...Lyle, Swan, Lou, Doug, Jeff, and Skol. Now there is a reason we invite Skol. He is notorious for losing at poker and donating chips to every pot. He is ridiculously bad at bluffing and we love him for it. HOWEVER, this weekend, a first happened...SKOL won and won BIG! I have had to deal with alot, from surgery to Cancer treatment, but this is just TOO MUCH!!! :)

In all seriousness it was a great night. Kim set up the food and I even got to have my token drink (Dem Docs say I can have an Occasional Drink...that was it. :) )

I was able to spend time with friends, and do a lot of laughing. I can't think of a better way to spend a Saturday Night, except for the whole Skol winning crap. So if you see Skol, invite him out to Lunch...HE's BUYING!!!!!

Life has returned to as close to normal as I can imagine, the only exception being driving. I go back to the doc next week to fight that fight. :) I go back on April 30th for a checkup and restarting the Chemo. No MRI this month, only doing those every 8 weeks.

I apologize for not posting more often, but with things going so well, all I have to say is..LIFE IS GOOD, LIFE IS GREAT, and I am enjoying every minute I have! So, I will post when I have something interesting to say, or anything changes in my health. If you don't hear from me, then you can bet that I am working like a crazy man, DRIVING my mower, spending time with Kim, or just living life for every moment that I have!

Kim ran across a story that I think is a perfect life lesson. I hope you enjoy, I did!

One day I hopped in a taxi and we took off for the airport.We were driving in the right lane when suddenly a black car jumped out of a parking space right in front of us. My taxi driver slammed on his brakes, skidded, and missed the other car by just inches! The driver of the other car whipped his head around and started yelling at us. My taxi driver just smiled and waved at the guy. And I mean, he was really friendly.

So I asked, "Why did you just do that? This guy almost ruined your car and sent us to the hospital!" This is when my taxi driver taught me what I now call, "The Law of the Garbage Truck."

He explained that many people are like garbage trucks. They run around full of garbage, full of frustration, full of anger, and full of disappointment. As their garbage piles up, they need a place to dump it and sometimes they'll dump it on you. Don't take it personally. Just smile, wave, wish them well, and move on. Don't take their garbage and spread it to other people at work, at home, or on the streets.

The bottom line is that successful people do not let garbage trucks take over their day. Life's too short to wake up in the morning with regrets, so..... "Love the people who treat you right. Pray for the ones who don't." Life is ten percent what you make it and ninety percent how you take it!

Miss Ava says.... "Give my Daddy Lyle Back his chips!" Oh yeah and PEACE OUT!

Inspiration from Odd places

After the results of my latest MRI, I was on a pretty solid week long High, and it wasn't just me... Everyone around me was able to share in the excitement from my family to my friends!

I apologize for not posting earlier, but any post that I would have written would have been one word long... WOW.

On Dateline this week they had the story about Randy Pausch, the Carnegie Mellon Professor that was diagnosed with Pancreatic Cancer and given 6 month of good living left. I found it flipping the channels and was able to watch it in its entirety. The tears flowed easily by the end of the show.

The brief synapsis for those of you that missed it is that he is not letting his diagnosis bring him down. The story is about his "Last Lecture" and how he is using his positive outlook carry him through his Cancer fight. He puts it very eloquently..."We can not change the cards we were dealt, only how we play the hand!" The entire lecture was about 2 things - Achieving your Childhood Dreams, and Enabling the Dreams of Others, but watch out for the "Head Fakes at the end...thats what put me over the edge with the Tears. :).

As I hope you can see, there is some similarity to what he is doing and what I am trying to do. He is so much more eloquent and inspiring with his approach. This is solidified my perspective and inspired me. The most amazing similarity was one comment he made in his lecture. At some point during his acceptance phase after the diagnosis, Randy and his wife looked at each other and said "It is what it is".

Those are the exact words that Kim and I said to each other the minute they said that I had a tumor, the minute the gave the pathology report, and the minute that they layed out the treatment plan.

"You can't change the cards you were dealt, only how you play the hand." That is going to be with me forever.

You can get a copy of Randy Pausch's "Last Lecture" through Itunes U for free for you IPOD users or you can get it from YouTube...just search "Randy Pausch" or "Last Lecture" I can't recommend it enough. It is inspiring! It truly makes you realize what you have.

Peace Out!

And the Dr News gets BETTER!

Today was my follow up appt with Dr. Crute, the amazing Neurosurgeon who did my surgery. I brought the MRI from Madison for her to review. We were hoping to get a more detailed explanation as to what was in the MRI. What we got was even more amazing...

Dr. Crute was physically excited with the results! She reviewed the written report and reviewed it with us. First and foremost, the spot of the tumor shows no residue! The secondary focus that they originally glowed with contrast showed nothing. Dr. Crute explained that as probably a lower grade Glioma that was knocked out by the radiation and chemo round 1. Now Dr. Crute has seen alot of these tumors and is always very cautious and reserved with setting our expectations. However, today, she was absolutely excited about the results. You can imagine how that makes me feel. But what really put me over the edge today was what she said next.

"I can't make any guarantees with GBM Tumors, however, based on my experience, your age, and the results of this MRI, I believe you have added YEARS to your life expectancy."

YEARS! NOW THAT'S ABSOLUTELY AMAZING...This comes from an original diagnosis of 6-18 months.

Dr. Crute is Kim and My new Hero! She not only made our day, but she saved my life! From an amazing surgery, that she admitted was one of the worse she has seen, to results that are off the charts in a positive manner! Not only is she an amazing surgeon, but she, by far, has the best patient interaction (bedside manner) of any Dr. that I have ever met. From the day I was admitted, through my whole hospital stay, and now the follow up meetings that I look forward to, she spends time talking us through any and all issues until she is sure that we understand. She is one of the most overtly caring Dr. that I have ever seen. To see her positive emotional reaction today when explaining the results to us was awesome. It was the true and real emotion that she shared that truly helped me BELIEVE!

So, thanks to Dr. Crute, I now am looking forward YEARS, not months! That is news that I just couldn't wait to share!!!

Peace Out!

Spring is in the air...

Sweet Sweet Rebellion is MINE!!! Dr Ian said absolutely no driving....But I found a way to rebel. I have not gone the Moped route yet, but I found the next best thing...

TODAY I GOT OUT THE RIDING LAWN MOWER, DROVE AROUND AND DETHATCHED THE YARD!!! WOO HOO!!!

Ok, I know you are all thinking that I have just lost my damn mind... :) Well I haven't completely lost my mind, but cabin fever has taken over!

Its amazing how much cabin fever has hit me this year. With the longer than normal Winter and all the health issues, I have been out of my mind waiting to be able to spend some time outside...today was that day! Kim and I spent a couple of hours running errands and then came home and I jumped at the opportunity to spend an hour dethatching my yard!! It helped that I DROVE the mower. :)

Some days its the little things that make you smile! I have learned not to take any of them for granted anymore!

As is becoming a weekly feature...My BLESSINGS FROM THE WEEK

1. A GREAT MRI showing No Progression and even some tumor resolution! Better than my Docs expected and the best results we could hope for!
2. Spending time with Craig and Sue and going to a Hockey game!
3. Enjoying being outside and DRIVING...even just the Mower. :)
4. Reading the overwhelming comments on my results post. Thank you all for the positive thoughts. I truly love reading the comments from all of you.
5. Deciding on my avenue to give back..>Charity Poker Tourney for the American Brain Tumor Association! Watch for details!
6. The blessing of friends...thank you is just not enough

Have a great week Everyone! PEACE OUT (from Little Miss Ava with Spring Fever)!

An Idea to give back!

You all already know that I am a huge fan of Poker. So, as I was thinking of ways to give back, I remember that Rockford/Chicago has an organization called Rockford Charitable Games. http://www.rockfordcharitablegames.com/charities.php

I have attended many of these events over the years and they get a fantastic draw.

I have just reached out to the organization, so I will let you know as the planning progresses. I would love to hear your thoughts about this concept.

The Goal - To raise money and awareness for Brain Tumor Research. All proceeds will go to the American Brain Tumor Assoc. www.abta.org who is headquarted in Des Plaines, IL just down the road.

Would love to hear your thoughts on this idea and maybe even some ideas for Names...the Talbott Annual MEMORIAL is NOT an option cause I plan to be around for a long damn time...

So maybe the POKER RUN for the BRAIN? LOL...obviously I have no creative bones in my body.

Your thoughts and Ideas are very welcome!

PEACE OUT!

The first Post Radiation MRI Results

After 6 weeks of Radiation and Chemo, I have been on a 4 week vacation from treatment protocol to allow me time to heal. Per protocol, I had to have an MRI done today. They have been telling me all along that this MRI will more than likely not tell us alot. They actually expect to see some tumor swelling and even growth at this stage.

So, I woke up this morning around 4am overthinking the entire upcoming MRI event. Finally got out of bed around 6am and had breakfast. After a quick shower and getting ready to leave, my nerves got the better of me and I vomitted breakfast back to General Mills. What a lovely visual huh? Imagine what a great start to the day it was for me!

Once we got going, Kim and I picked up my Mom and headed North to Madison. We had a 9:30 MRI appointment which was then followed by lunch at the UW cafeteria, and then off to our appt with Dr. Ian and his coordinator Diana. So we went and had the first of two conversations with Dr. Ian.

MRI RESULTS- "No Recurrence of the tumor, secondary focus is "entirely stable!", report even shows some resolution of tumor (shrinking). The Report looks GREAT" It was the best report that we could have received. It was even better than "No Progression" ...in essence - The Radiation Worked!!!!

So, being the smart ass that I am, I jumped right in and said..."So Dr. Ian, this means I can start driving today RIGHT?" Well...after a 15 min tirade and explanation..."You do have a serious Brain Tumor, Liability, Legal thing, High risk patient, blah, blah, blah....I LOST... No Driving for me.

Now being the pouting baby that I am, what I took from the entire conversation...was just the no driving thing. From that meeting, I had to go get bloodwork done and wait for the results so they could dispense the chemo. So I sat and waited for the results of the bloodwork...totally pissed off about not winning my battle to drive. Now I understand the reason he is so strict. He is worried about being liable if he says ok. It is still incredibly frustrating considering I have never had a seizure and I am feeling so well, but I obviously don't want to take the chance of hurting someone else if I have a seizure while driving, but I was still PISSED OFF!

So being the ROCK that she is Kim says...in her own way (I am paraphrasing)..."Hey Dumbass, don't you realize what that MRI Meant...YOU TOOK A BIG STEP TOWARDS REMISSION TODAY!" You can LIVE without driving!" :)

Which of course she is right, so by the time we collected all of the chemo drugs, I finally felt the excitement of the MRI Results and had created a solution to the No Driving Thing....

He said no driving, not NO RIDING... at least with this I can only hurt myself. So don't be suprised if you see me this summer cruising my way around Marengo and my friends at Flatlanders in this hot new ride...

So in closing, it looks like I am going to be around a little longer to be a pain in the ass to my doctors! :) My Chemo will probably last 12 cycles. I take 5 days of Chemo every month at twice the dosage that I took before. I start tonight and go through Monday. I will go up to see Dr. Ian and Diana once a month for new bloodwork and picking up the next month's chemo drugs. I have some new targets that I heard Dr. Ian talking about today... Once a Survivor of a GBM makes it to the 5 year mark, he considers them cured. So, one step at a time, but I have a new goal. 5 Years!!!! Please keep up the positive thoughts and prayers, they helped me accomplish the AMAZING....a GREAT MRI REPORT after Radiation when the doctors expected it to be much worse!!!

LIFE IS GOOD!!!

PEACE OUT!!!

The Power of Friends

Quick Health Update

I am feeling fantastic and am actually excited for the next step. Next Thursday, April 3rd, I go back to Madison to get an MRI, meet with dem smart Doctors and start my next cycle of Chemo. I will also find out which arm of the clinical trial that I will be in. I promise to post and update you all with what I find out at that appointment. I apologize for not posting as often, but since I have felt so damn good, I have been keeping myself pretty damn busy...back to normal. I also wanted to let you know that I received some great ideas on how I can give back (from my last post) I will be utilizing some of those ideas and will let you all know what I decide to do. I am leaning towards developing some sort of annual event for survivors and families in the area.


Talking with people about my disease and how I have gotten through it prompts the same response every time...What a great group of Friends and Family you have. What an understatement!

As I celebrate the 3 month mark of recovery from my Brain Surgery today, I can't help but think about the people that have helped me get to this point. I can in no way come close to thanking everyone, but I do want to dedicate some time to some special people...As you already know, I do not believe in leaving things unsaid.

From the minute we learned of the tumor's existence through all the treatments, the trips to Madison, and through every "meltdown", Kim has been there. She is my rock, my best friend and I love her dearly and can't imagine having gone through this without her.

My Parents, from being at my side in the ER to being my driver to Madison, my Mom and Dad have been there. I believe it has brought us closer than we have ever been! I have been able to say things via this blog to my father that I have wanted to say for years, and the talks that my Mom and I had on our drives were fantastic! My Family, from my sister and brother in-law to my brother and sister in-law have been incredible. From a little gesture that meant so much... like leaving me Lance Armstrong "Livestrong" bands while I was sleeping just after surgery, to just calling to check in on me; It has meant the world to me. Thank you!


Friends- Throughout this blog, you have seen the power of my friends. I want to call a few out and personally thank them. Bear with me, but these people have helped me more than they will ever know with simple acts of kindness.


Ralph L- From early in my recovery process, Ralph reached out to me to check in on me and share his recovery experiences. We talked for a long time and he left me with such a feeling of "I CAN DO THIS", at a time that I really needed it. Ralph is who actually recruited me into the NH network. I have known him through work and respected him for years, but this experience and the sharing of his time has truly made him someone I am proud to call a friend. Thank You.


Swan and Lyle- When my wife came out of my hospital room after surgery Lyle asked her..."what can I do?" With tears in her eyes she says, Someone needs to call Swan. Without hesitation, Lyle says I will do it! Now there is a lot more to this story, but what is important is that....your gesture and the ensuing renewed friendship between you and Swan means more to me than I can ever express. You two are two of the closest friends I have and it has meant so much to be able to reconnect with both of you and bring the three of us together again after all these years! Swan- From Sunny to Rainy to Little Pink Houses, you have been there. To Both of you, the conversations that we had on our drives to Madison continue to bring me strength. Thank you for being there!


Jeff- Even the rock (KIM) needs a shoulder from time to time. You have been that shoulder. How can I thank the person who was there for my family at a time that I was unable to? From making her smile with your demented humor to helping with the dogs while I was in the hospital. These little gestures and things you did for my family while I was in the hospital are more than I could ever ask from a business partner and Friend. Our purpose in our business is to provide for our families and I can't thank you enough for providing for mine while I was unable. Thank You!


Mark P- You have all seen what an amazing person Mark is, and what he has done for me during this process. Gene L - said it best in a comment on an earlier post - Mark you are an Angel sent from Heaven to all of us. I couldn't agree more. From the minute you found out about my surgery, you jumped to action. You have been amazing...from coordinating the Talbott Support Group contact list, to keeping people updated on my status, to coordinating "A night to remember, a night I will never forget". Mark Patrick, you are an Angel sent from Heaven to us all!


As I celebrate 3 months of recovery, I have naturally spent some time recently thinking back over the last three months. I have been blessed in so many ways, from quick recovery and early release from the hospital to an incredibly uneventful Radiation and Chemo Phase I. Many people think that my attitude and outlook come from me...the reality is that I have fed off of the incredibly positive people in my life. Thank you is just not enough.



Peace Out!

Where do we go from here?

Ok, now this is getting ridiculous! They keep telling me that I have Cancer, but I am not sure I believe them anymore! :) I feel too damn good. :) Believe me, I am not complaining...lets hear it for the power of positive thinking and prayer!

So enough about me...Its time to take this blog discussion to a new area. In the short time that I am blessed to be on this Earth, how do I give back to others in need? The most obvious choice is by helping people that have my type of Cancer. I have noticed that Madison has a Brain Tumor Support Group that meets on a regular basis. What if I could put something like that together in Rockford? Does one exist? How do I take that up a notch and individualize it so I can actually help individuals with Brain Tumors by sharing my outlook and energy? These have been the ideas that are rolling through my head right now. I am beginning the search to find out what is already out there and where I may be able to help. If any of you have ideas, please send them to me. It needs to be something that allows me to directly share my outlook and energy with others that are suffering with Cancer, most specifically Brain Tumors.

I am full of life and full of positive energy thanks to all of you. Now is my time to pass that on to others...to Pay it Forward to use a cliche. I know I have been blessed and have had an incredibly uneventful treatment regimen, but part of that has to be Positive Attitude and Laughter. I refuse to think I am just that lucky. Those of you who have been to Vegas with me or played poker with me know that that is just not the case. :)

Throughout my 6 weeks of Radiation Treatment at UW Madison, I spent alot of time in the oncology wards and although the staff is incredible, the feeling in the waiting rooms is and was typically one of doom, gloom, or pain, especially in the chemo waiting room.

If I can take away the pain, or provide an alternate perception if even for a few minutes, of someone suffering, then it is all worth it. What better place to start than with people with Brain Tumors. I can relate to their treatments, or surgerys and I can share my positive energy and maybe even bring some smiles to their faces.

Maybe it is something as easy as volunteering for the American Cancer Society...who knows, but it is now a quest of mine. Deliverying teddy bears or games to the kids in the cancer ward...I know I could find the resources to help with that...

So, I don't know where I will go with all of this, but I am determined to find a way to give back. I am asking you all for ideas. I am open to anything as long as I can somehow see the faces of the people I am able to help.

The reason for all of this is simple and not anything grandious. I have been Blessed in so many ways throughout this journey, that I feel that I owe it to myself to give back to others.

Happy Easter Everyone!! I hope you all are able to spend time with your families this weekend.

Please share your ideas when you get a moment!!!

Some Blessings to Share from This week...
1. Running into friends at the grocery. Jerry and Jan, Jason and Katie, and Julie. It was great to see you all!
2. Spending the whole day today with Kim. Not doing anything fancy, just spending time together...a blessing in itself!
3. Getting a WII Game Console and watching Kim play the golf and boxing games...Laughing my fool head off the whole time :)
4. Spending time with Jeff talking about business issues and feeling productive.
5. Getting a call from Miss Ava - (as she was playing with Lyle's Cell Phone) :)

Peace Out!

A week of Normalcy

Well, its been one full week since the completion of radiation and the surprise party of my life. How am I feeling? Absolutely FANTASTIC!! I have had a fantastic week. Had two great events happen this week.

The first event was the opportunity to ride along on a trip with my partner Jeff to visit a client down in Peoria. It was great to spend some time catching up with Jeff, visiting with our client and getting out of the house!

The second event happened today. Kim and I went over to Kim's sister's to celebrate St. Patrick's day. We had a great dinner of Corned Beef and Cabbage, played catch with my nephew, and was able to play (ok mainly watch :) ) "Rock Band" (a Video Game) with my brother-in-law, nieces, and nephew. It was awesome to just hang out and play with the kids and have a few hours of true Normal! It sounds like a little thing, but it was a really awesome feeling playing catch with my nephew. It was so Normal! I loved it. My brother in-law and I even spent some time talking about the upcoming golf season...what could be more normal.

So, I would love to give you some big philosophical statement about this Cancer fight, but when it comes down to it...Life is great, and every minute that goes by, I am feeling less like a cancer patient and more like the old me! To me, that means I AM WINNING!

As Miss Ava would say... PEACE OUT!

A Night to Remember...A Night I'll Never Forget

Wow...Just Wow! What an incredible night!

The plan was simple. Dinner at Cliffbreakers, then off to Franny's for a cocktail with a couple people from NH Rockford. Nothing crazy...right Mark? NOT SO MUCH. :)

So, we met Mark at Cliffbreaker's in the Bar before dinner. We had a drink and then the hostess came and got us for our dinner reservation. I was still excited about Mark flying in to see me that I didn't even notice that we walked right by the dining room. Cliffbreakers has a lot of little private rooms for dinner and Mark indicated that he got us one of those. We stopped at the Vanderbilt room...Mark says "I love ya bro" and pushed me in the room. I walk into the room and could not believe my eyes...Close to 50 people, friends from throughout my adult life... all of them staring back at me. I am not sure how long I stood there in awe...it felt like 10 minutes...Just looking at the faces, tears of happiness welling up in my eyes.

I couldn't believe it so many friends all there to see me. The range was awesome..My Best Friend Denny from High School who flew in from Atlanta, the core team of NH Rockford, the core team of NH Chicago, my close friend Gil from my NH Days who flew in from Atlanta, Clients and close friends from Caterpillar that drove 3 hours in from Peoria, a good friend from NH days who drove in from Wisconsin, my closest friends from the area (including darling Miss Ava), my partner(who has been on the road for weeks but took time away from his family to be there), JB & Mark who flew in special from Phoenix, and so many more...

Mark literally planned and executed the absolute surprise of my life. I literally felt my knees start to wobble and jaw hit the ground. The fact that I stayed upright and didn't pass out was a miracle itself.

Kim comes up next to me and says...Oh by the way, we are staying here tonight. Two of my close friends from NH Chicago Kory and Tammy couldn't be there, but wanted to help, so they paid for our room. Unbelievable doesn't even do it justice. Thank you guys so much.

So, not only did he bring everyone together, he had a plan. Knowing that there are two hobbies that I enjoy the most, golf and poker....he planned a poker tournament for during this party....and for those that didn't play poker... CRANIUM! Johnny D....its OK I found the correlation of Cranium and my situation absolutely PERFECT and hilarious...Hell if I can't laugh about my situation by now, then I have a bigger problem. :)

How Mark coordinated so many people and kept it all a secret is amazing. Kim has started to fill in some of the gaps, but it still boggles my mind. You pulled it off in perfect form my friend. Thank You!

Steve Foor helped take the experience to another level by putting a DVD together with pictures and music from our NH Rockford days. It was amazing.

There were at least a dozen other cameras and video cameras there as well, so I will post pics as soon as I get them! If you had one of the cameras, please send me pics!!!!

Did I tell you how amazing this experience was? I was in the room around 6:45pm and spent the evening until almost 1:00am catching up with my unbelievable friends, hugging everyone that I could, crying, laughing, and saying WOW alot! I even played decent poker, which I can't believe because my attentions were all over the room all the time. I tried to give a speech on the fly before the poker started, and I said a few words, none of which I remember. I know I wanted to say more, but in the emotion of the moment, there was no way I was going to get the words out.

It truly warms my heart and blows me a way seeing so much love and support for me in one room. I could only dream that I have been able to touch this many people in my life. Add the prayers and positive thoughts that just the people in that room have sent me and continue to send me...its no wonder I feel so damn good! With this kind of support, I am gonna have some flabergasted Doctors as I continue to heal and wreck the curve of stats for my type of Cancer!

When I say, a Night to Remember...A Night I'll Never Forget, I think you can understand what an understatment that is.

To each and everyone of you that attended last night...>THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart!! I do not have the words to express how much last night meant to me. You are all absolutely unbelievable and I love you all! Last night strengthened my drive to beat this disease. I am stronger because of each of you. Thank You, Thank You, Thank You.

Radiation Complete!!!

Phase I has been accomplished!!! I am officially done with Radiation forever, and chemo for 4 weeks!

My next trip to Madison won't be until April 3rd. WooHoo! I just got 5 hours per day back!!

Kim, my Mom and I went up for the final treatment today. We met with Diana who talked to us about the interim and our questions. She did a great job explaining everything to us. I will get an MRI when I go back in April and meet with Dr. Ian and Dr. Mehta. At that time, I will find out what arm of the clinical trial I will be in. Then I get the Chemo drugs and new calendars. In addition, they will read the MRI and tell us what is says. In addition, I have to send in weekly blood work so they can keep an eye on me. After that, I repeat that same routine every 8 weeks until Chemo is done, which will depend on what the MRI scans say. Using Dr. Mehta's words "no progression" is the magic words.

Getting the final radiation treatment was uneventful until the end. At the end, the techs gave me my mask as a souvenir, and a special certificate that the techs wrote notes to me and signed. Kim also brought some chocolate that she picked out for the techs....BIG HIT!!! I think they were gone minutes after we dropped them off.

After leaving the Radiation treatment, we celebrated with a great greasy burger at the Blue Moon in Madison (which I highly recommend) best greasy burgers in Madison. :)

After we dropped my Mom off, Kim and I decided to run some errands, which upon hindsight probably wasn't the best idea. The reason was that we were both physically and emotionally tired before we began our errands. So several hours later when we got home, we each had a mini meltdown. For both of us it was the last 6 weeks of emotion finally coming to the surface. So, we cried for a while and let it out. I think for me it was the realization that I had survived the first 6 weeks of treatment and did it in great shape. In addition, it was a realization of how much our life has changed and for me, how much of a sacrifice that Kim has made for me. I truly understand why there are so many support groups for CAREGIVERS...it is exhausting. I couldn't ask for a better primary caregiver in Kim, nor could I ask for a better support group than the one I have with all of you. I think it just piled up and decided it was time to come out. Tears are cleansing right? :)

It took all day, but it finally hit me. Phase I is complete and I am still alive! Moving into phase II is scary, but exciting as well. I am still waiting in the back of my mind for the day that dem smart docs say...OK...its all gone, you can go back to living your life. That, however, is not going to happen. With a GBM Tumor, "no progression" is good...as Diana says, make this disease chronic.

So, I MADE IT! Phase I Complete and as Diana put it I am doing better than most people with the same tumor as me. That to me is GREAT NEWS! I like being an overachiever. :)

The initial celebration has been smiles and tears, but all in all excellent. The celebration continues tomorrow with my good friend Mark. Can't wait to see ya brother!

Got Kisses from Miss Ava today and she told me to tell you... PEACE OUT!!