Sunday, November 18, 2007

Our first guest blogger! THE GRASS MAN!!!!


Hello Crazy Sexy Cancer world! Michael from Hippocrates here. When Kris asked me to write a blog for her peeps, I blushed, smiled and felt honored all at the same time. It would be my pleasure to inform people of GREENS and how amazing they are!

First of all, allow myself…to ...introduce....myself. My name is Michael Bergonzi, Greenhouse / Expo Manager / Health Educator Director at Hippocrates Health Institute in West Palm Beach, FL for the past seven years. My career in the field of alternative health & wheatgrass began in San Diego, CA back in 1990. Growing grass for a living and not ending up in jail seemed like a pretty cool job! Ok, I'll take it! Of course, the cost per one ounce is $1.00 rather than $350.00! =)

Most people now a days have at least heard of wheatgrass juice if not actually tasted it themselves from a juice bar or health food store. (There are always some people that enjoy drinking it, but no one ever hangs around those people!) The taste of wheatgrass is not always a pleasant one and we are told that it must be our bodies that are detoxing. However, that is not always the case. For example, as a wheatgrass grower, I would bring a tray of grass to the health food store, ready to juice. If they juiced it that day, it would not taste at all bitter or cause that nausea feeling. But, they choose instead to put it in the store window for a display for people to see it, and now it stays in the window for two more days in which the sun shines on it, which it should never. They haven’t watered it, which they should everyday, and now, that same sweet tasting wheatgrass has aged almost 80 years in two days. It’s kind of like people, the older it gets, the more bitter it becomes! =) Wheatgrass should be harvested when a second blade becomes visible, and then the entire tray needs to be cut at the same time. It may then be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week without losing it’s value and taste.

Let’s talk about the ‘greens’ on the planet Earth. First of all, everyone can agree that we, as humans, are mammals. Most of the mammals on this planet are living on leafy greens. In fact, we are one of the few mammals that still eat meat and the only mammal that cook our food. To say that protein only comes from eating meat is an uneducated statement. Sprouts, sprouted beans and GREENS are the best source of proteins for our bodies. Think about it on a bigger scale. How is it possible that most every mammal (and you all agreed that WE humans are mammals) can live on eating just leafy greens? Elk, moose, deer, giraffes, gorillas, elephants, horses, etc… and don’t forget the one that WE get most of our food here in the USA from, the COW!!! Ahhhhhhh… and here is the problem now a days. You see, in the past, when you lived on red meat and dairy products, in-directly you lived on GRASS. The cow was eating the grass; we were eating the cow. It just makes sense. We were getting the EARTH in our diets. But, today, that is NOT the case. Most cows are now trough fed, mostly grains, which are making their systems too acid base, and are having to be shot full of antibiotics, steroids and of course hormones. They go over to the trough, eat as much as they can, and now want to take a nap because they are ‘full.’ (Ringing true to us as humans these days who drive through the fast food joint, meaning WE are being trough fed too! Staying full, getting tired and staying sick.) A cow taking a nap because it’s too full? Are you kidding me? So, the problem now is our red meat and dairy aren’t what they used to be. We are not getting the GRASS (green / earth) in our diet any longer. Look, I have been in this field now for 17 years, too long to judge anyone for what they choose to eat. I just want to educate people on “what’s simple is TRUE.” Get the Earth back in your diet, more oxygen back into your cells and exercise once a day. (yoga, walking, stretching, etc…)

OK. Is any of this making sense yet? Let’s go to the first thing your body needs to live. Before food, before water, you need OXYGEN!!! Everyone reading this, please pause for a moment and take a DEEP BREATH… Count to three on the inhale and three on the exhale. Wasn’t that good? Let’s face it, the only people that really focus on breath these days, unless you’re into yoga, thai-chi or meditation, are smokers! =( Personally, I smoked for 10 years, and I know why I felt the ‘need’ for a cigarette, because it would relax me. Exactly, what are you doing when you smoke? (You now have to leave your job and go outside the building. Amen to that law, so you get a bit of stress relief too.) You’re BREATHING DEEP, for the first time all day. I am NOT encouraging smoking, however, I am encouraging breathing. Try it without the “stick.” Walk away from people, your job, etc… and go somewhere, by yourself, and spend 5 minutes breathing deep. It’s amazing how much calmer you will be after doing this.

Now, let’s take a moment and go back to how ‘wheat’ grass came to light. A woman by the name of Ann Wigmore founded Hippocrates in Boston approx. 50 years ago. She actually healed her own health issues by chewing on ‘lawn’ grass. That’s right; I said lawn grass, not wheatgrass. She began chewing on it and got sick for many weeks, but stayed with it till she eventually started feeling better and better. She learned that the grass / greens were the most complete foods on the planet, as well as having other healing properties. The wheat seed was chosen because of its sweeter, more palatable taste. (Her cat picked it out.) She also learned that the green / chlorophyll will increase the hemoglobin in the blood which then distributes oxygen to every cell in our body. Take another deep breath! Remember that oxygen is a good thing? Ann started this because of watching the animals do it, as well as a statement that was made to her as a child, “Instinct guided creatures, left to them selves, do not make mistakes.” (I LOVE that one.) Most of us chewed on grass as children, if it was around. Why then and not now? We lost sight of our instinct. Here’s a FYI on oxygen content on the planet these days: 100 years ago, there was over 30% and now it is at an average of 15%. The most out there, if you live in a lush, green area, is 21%. However, in downtown major cities it is down to 9% or less. Does anyone remember ‘smog alerts’? I do, but not since 1990, when they stopped telling people. Fact: Oxygen in the cells means less chance for cancer to survive. GREENS = Chlorophyll = increased hemoglobin = more OXYGEN in your cells. GET IT NOW? Don’t forget, fresh wheatgrass juice is the best way to FEEL a difference. Drinking 2 ounces / day on an empty stomach is optimum.

In closing, remember these two simple words: “Stay Present.” More too come on GREENS and sprouted beans next month… Till then, yours in the greenhouse at Hippocrates Health Institute in West Palm Beach, FL, breathing in approx. 30% oxygen everyday, Michael Bergonzi

For questions on growing your own wheatgrass or sprouts, visit my personal website (which I am still working on improving) at www.hippocratesgreenhouse.com and send me an email anytime.

PS. Hi gang, it's me Kris. Just so you know, Michael is the #1 grower of wheatgrass and sprouts in the country, maybe the world. His knowledge is vast. Michael created and perfected many of the greenhouses at the top healing centers. He is a transformative man (with a kick ass sense of humor) and he will be back for a visit soon! Thank you rock star Michael!!!!!!!!

64 comments:

Anonymous said...

Michael - Many thanks for your post and all of the information!
How do you suggest we newbies ingest this without feeling sick? I've not had fresh wheatgrass - the trays in our local juice bars looks awful. I did buy the frozen shots at Whole Foods....not tasty at all..in fact, gag-worthy. Any ideas?

JenFrear said...

Michael-thanks for sharing your knowledge of wheatgrass and its many benefits with us.

I love knowing that everyone on this board is doing their part to become a better person; inside and out.

Happy juicing and big deep breaths to all!

Jenny in Cleveland

scnewme said...

Good Morning Michael and Kris!

What an awesome post to see first thing this morning (and the photo is easy on the eyes too, lolol) - congratulations on being the first guest blogger on the site!!!

I have become one of the many believers of this "new" lifestyle, encouraged by sista cowgirl Kris, and for the past couple of weeks I've totally enjoyed juicing and eating much better - finally feeling as if I can help myself in the battle against canser - and feeling so much better already!

I haven't tried wheatgrass yet, and I have a question for you. I've seen it packaged in the refrigerator section of my local grocery store and was wondering if you believe that it has "aged" and therefore not really worth buying from them. Also, how difficult would it be to grow my own - living in New Jersey and already have the heater going!!

Kris, big thanks again for sharing your knowledge, experience and friend Michael with us - I feel so fortunate and have so very much to be thankful for this holiday season!!

Wishing you all the best,

Sherry

Lindsay said...

Hey everyone this is Roslin, but I had to change my sn...something went a little crazy with my password...who knows. But anyways...


Had a rough couple days...I had massive surgery in May and my Abdominals were literally cut in half and well my tumor was growing through nerves. To make a long story short after I had surgery I lost a large tumor, my psoas muscle, a kidney and quite a few nerves. I have episodes of chronic and intense nerve pain "attacks" to the point where I cannot even move. I have them about twice a month or more depending on how stressed I am. This last episode landed me in bed all weekend...having trouble walking. And the meds are barely taking the edge off.

If anyone knows anything about intense nerve pain and/or anything I can do at home or naturally to help with this pain...it would be so helpful...I'm feeling desperate =(

Gettin Healthy said...

Thank you for all the information Michael. I am a new wheatgrass gal and was wondering if you can provide some additional tips for selecting "good wheatgrass"? Visually what are things to look for when purchasing flats of wheatgrass in stores? Also I think I need some additional information on what the second blade is please! :):) If I am going to do this I am doing it right but I think I need the "Wheatgrass for Dummies" version. Thank You!

LauraB said...

Great information, thank you for sharing your knowledge. I hope to see you at Hipprocates before too long. Keep sharing your knowledge, this has been great for so many people on so many levels.
-Laura

Obsessedwithlife said...

Thanks for the info!

Rachel

http://www.iamobsessedwithlife.blogspot.com/

Jennifer said...

Annalin -

I'm so sorry you are suffering. I'm not going to compare my pain to yours, but pain is pain and I'll just tell you what I had and still have and then get to the point. I had/have a TON of female problems. Adenomyosis, endometriosis, polyps, ovarian cysts, pelvic congestion syndrome. I had 4 surgeries in 2 years. Ended up losing my uterus, but the pain from endo, adhesions, nerve damage and cysts continued. I recently (almonst 3 months ago) started taking a supplement called MSM. It is supposed to be a natural anti-inflamatory. I pretty much tried everything in the book for my pain from vicodin to shiatsu massage and some other things I'm too embarrased to say. Anyways this MSM stuff is working. I haven't been in pain for over 2 months now. And believe me that is a major breakthru for me. I used to spend days in bed or on the couch curled up in a ball because of the pain.I have had a few days, that I can count on 1 hand that I felt a little crumby, but nothing like before. Of course I'm still waiting for the ball to drop because this seems to easy, and I stumbled upon it by accident. I haven't been able to find any info on MSM for my problems, but it is working. There have been many studies, and it is supposed to be safe, with no side effects and no drug interactions. You could give it a try and see. Won't hurt right. Again, I'm really sorry you are suffering. I hope I've helped.

Jennifer

Anne said...

Thanks for the blog, Michael.

I juiced my first wheatgrass last week--bought a baggie of fresh cut wheatgrass at Whole Foods and juiced about three ounces total over three days--an ounce at a time. It tasted like lawn clippings, but not unpleasantly. I didn't get nauseated.

I'll be checking out your site and maybe e-mailing for some advice about growing.

In the meantime, one question: Where do I get the seeds to grow it? Anyplace other than the Internet?

Lindsay said...

Jennifer,
Thanks so much for your comment, I will do a little research on that...any idea helps! One of my best friends has ovarian cysts and pelvic congestion syndrome as well and it has caused her hell over the past few months. I see you had nerve pain as well...isn't it horrible?? For now..they gave me hydrocodone but it doesn't do much other than take a little edge off and make me drowsy and out of it. Pain is def. still there...I'm walking today though..more than yesterday..blehh =(

Thank you so much for your post.

Lindsay said...

***Oh P.S.
obsessed with life- I was reading your blog about how you love 11/11 and I laughed because my birthday is 11/11/87...just made me smile.

Jennifer said...

annalin-

Yes, I was told I had nerve damage. My gyno sent me to a pain management specialist because the vicodin, which is hydrocodine, just wasn't doing it for me, and the side effects are just nasty. The pain mngmt. spec. said he could give me some kind of injections for the pain, but since I had all those surgeries, my nerves probably weren't where they are supposed to be and it would be hit or more likely MISS! I said no thanks, I'm not a pin cushion! So then he told me to take an antidepressand and join curves. OMG! I left there feeling very angry. I am not overweight and only depressed because of the pain. Plus I can't work out because of the pain. What an idiot. After many more months of searching I found this MSM and I don't know why but it is working. I also take St. John's Wart. I always take that through the winter because I get the blues. And I take Acidophilus for my constipation. So maybe the combonation of the 3 are what's doing it. I don't know, but if it helps you then I'll be sooooooooooo happy because living your life in pain is just not living.

Jennifer

Obsessedwithlife said...

Annalin-
Thanks! That's so cool. Thanks for stopping by and letting me know. Truly appreciate it!

Rachel

http://iamobsessedwithlife.blogspot.com/

Anonymous said...

Micheal-- AWSOME BLOG! That was so great! You should write a book! I find what you were saying so interesting! I like hearing about the 'history of wheatgrass'. I am ashamed to say my first and only experience with wheat grass was at a Jamba Juice. I ordered a 2 oz. shot and..........uhg. Pretty bad. I felt so sick to my stomach the rest of the day too! I am not giving up on the stuff though-so don't worry! I would love to learn to grow it myself. Seems like a reasonable thing to do! Cant wait to hear what you talk about next!

Take care!
Jessica

Anonymous said...

Kris! I just responded to the post and wanted to say hi! Hope everything is going well!!

Anonymous said...

Hi Micheal and Kris...

I have been wanting to participate in your little wheatgrass revolution but I have been a bit hesitant. I have a blood clotting disorder that requires being on blood thinners. All that vitamin K packed in that little shot can drastically alter clotting factors...
I already take a higher dose than many people would because of a vegan diet and being unwilling to forgo the broccoli and the leafy greens.
So do you have any thoughts...
What is a girl to do?

Susan For HHI said...

Hey Crazy,Sexy,Grassman!!

Don't get excited it just me Susan wanted to respond to ur first blog. Hey all u single girlfriends out there the grassman is single and he's hot! Who needs myspace!! (don't get mad, just breathe, inhale 123, exhale 123).lol

I have had the pleasure of working for Michael for almost 6 months. He has taught me how to grow wheatgrass, sunflower, pea and buckwheat greens. We also did the sprouting of all the beans for Hippocrates.That's a big responsibility!! all those live enzymes!!!! for all of the clients and guest to eat has been an honor for me. Everyone who works in the greenhouse takes their job very serious.

Michael is a master grower and he knows his stuff. Once u get the routine down it can be pretty easy to do (in the right environment of course). You guys r lucky to have access to Michael now and all his years of experience. Not only can he grow some good weed he is an awesome speaker. He has alot to say and give. "It's all good" as Michael would say and he also lectures very passionatly about being in the moment. "Stay Present" I'll let him fill u in on all of that IMPORTANT stuff. They'll be alot for him to blog about so it's time to buckle up and pay attention.

Thanks grassman for your insight and thank you Kris for ur passion and compassion for ur fellow canser posse's quest for good health and to living large!!

JUICING FOR LIFE!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Susan

apoopslingingmonkey said...

Thanks Michael! Awesome post , I look forward to your post on sprouts! I'd love to grow all my grass and sprouts, but I have limited space, and no time to really do it-but maybe its alot easier than it seems lol. It looks like a time consuming thing. But yet I'm sure its worth it! :) Kris had mentioned in a comment somewhere last post or post before about having her stuff delivered. I'd love something like that too- do you deliver?lol I'd to have fresh grass and sprouts delivered to my house weekly- now that would be cool :) ...and... also lol, 'Susan For HHI' says the grassman is single? lol! how on earth is that possible?! I guess your true love and passion is grass ;)

Kris ~ Thanks for your awesome guest bloggers! :) Have fun in Boston!

goony &
Annalin ~ have you guys tried acupuncture yet? I've heard some miracle type results for nerve issues and pain and all sorts of aliments. Please try it a regimen for a few months and see if it works. Its worth the try, just imagine if it worked for you both! :)

Lindsay said...

Interesting idea...are things like acupuncture covered by medical insurance? I'm going to meet with the pain management team at my CanSer institute to try to get this under control...it's just all about drugs and sometimes those don't work! It's very frustrating...still hurting pretty bad...having the boyfriend bring dinner to me tonight since I can't stand long enough to make anything. I feel like I'm 20 going on 85. Thanks for the ideas everyone keep em coming!! <3

Jennifer said...

apoopslingingmonkey

My insurance won't cover accupuncture and we don't have enough income to afford it. My gyno is somewhat educated in eastern medicine? Is that right? And he sent me for 4 sessions of shiatsu (he also runs a spa) for free of charge to see if it worked. Shiatsu is pinpoint massage that is supposed to clear your chi. It was actually quite painful in some spots, not like a relaxing kind of massage. Anyways it was an awesome experience, but it didn't work, at least not in those 4 sessions. But I've heard it does work, and so can accupuncture, so if you can afford it, go for it!

Dharma said...

goony,
this is my first time posting and i'm wondering how long it took for the MSM to help with your pain ? I just started taking it four days ago and am praying for a miracle pain cure !
thanx, tina

Lauren said...

Michael's single!?! AP Monkey must be right, he's only got time for grass.
What's a girl to do? I could dye my hair green and wear grass skirts.
Ok...enough silliness. A single, 28-year old girl, who enjoys horseback riding and long walks on the beach, should really learn to be more mature.

Seriously though, I've started juicing, and love it, so next on the agenda is wheatgrass and sprouts! Can't wait!

Lindsay said...

I just had a though for Kris's next post..a pain post. Who doesn't have it? And I bet many of us are recovering from some major surgeries and have some complications stemming from them. Just a thought.

Dani11 said...

I was just wondering if anyone posting on this website has any info or stories regarding ovarian cancer...my mom was just diagnosed with stage 3c and everthing I have read has not been the most positive. Are there any stories out there of women who have taken on this healthy lifestyle and have had a long remission? I just want to help her in anyway that I can... Thank you so much.

Jennifer said...

just t - I was in pain for more than half the month, every month for the last 5 years. I was just comming off of a 23 day in-a-row pain period when I started the MSM and within a few days, I think it was only 2 or 3, I was no longer in pain. My pain came with extreme swelling in my lower abdomen, so much so that I would look pregnant, and the swelling is completely gone too. I haven't written in my pain journal since September 6th!!!!!!!! I had a couple of days of mild aching, but nothing like before the MSM. I really really hope this works for you too. It is the only thing that I have changed in my diet so it has to be the MSM.

annalin, I think a pain post would be great! I don't want to give anyone false hope, but I would like to get the word out about MSM just incase it could help someone.

Jennifer

Jennifer said...

just t

By the way, I take 3000 mg a day. I take 2000mg in the morning, and the other 1000mg in the evening. I got mine from www.ritzmanrx.com. You can go there and compare what I have to what you have. I bought the MSM 1000mg/120 bottle. I think it's $15.00 and it's a 40 day supply.

Jennifer

Dharma said...

goony,
geeezzz, I bought 1500mg tabs, 60 tabs, for $12.00. I take one three times a day. Mine are from solgar, I got them from my nutrionist. I think I need to look at your site !!!! thanx for sharing the info, and answering me back so quick ! I'm really glad you have found relief from your pain ! I'm at the end of my rope with mine, I'm learning to live with my hip and shoulder pain, but the pain in my neck and head is to much for me ! my occipital nerves are in spasm and are causing constant migraine like pain. I've lost my patience and that's not a good thing when you have five kids ! sorry, now i'm complaining, and I really shouldn't be, I don't have canser, I only have lupus and fibromyalgia. But it's nice to get it out ! thank you again for all your help. I'll let you know about the MSM. I'm so thankful for this site !!! thanx Tina

Anonymous said...

Hi everyone!
I have been reading this blog for a long time, but this is my first time posting. I feel like I know most of you already, like you are long time friends:)

I am not a canser cowgirl myself, but I a chronic cowgirl, and a true believer in the greens, raw, wheatgrass, yoga, breathing etc :)

Firstly, I would like to say a huge THANK YOU to Kris. I saw you on Oprah with Dr Oz (I LOVE HIM!!) and then I caught your documentary on TLC one night. I then found it again and made my hubby watch.
After that day, I borrowed a juicer from my Aunt and began juicing. I have to admit, I loved it right from the beginning! My hubby actually likes the juice too, BONUS! I then got hooked on this blog :), bought your book, along with Raw Detox and the Ph Balance book.(yours is the only one that I have started.)

My husband and I have been undergoing fertility treatments since 2000. I have done many procedures and have taken many more drugs in the process, with no luck. I have come to the belief that I have immunological issues.. and am now seeing a naturopath... along with juicing, eating better, and learning LOTS!

Thank you Michael for sharing your vast knowledge of wheatgrass. I am so interested in growing mine! I actually really like the taste of the juice... surprisingly. I buy it from the grocery store right now, but would be interested in getting some seeds and giving it a go.

I look forward to getting to know you all better in the future..

I just wanted to say thank you, thank you, thank you.
Namaste my friends... Namaste..

Unknown said...

Kris,
How do I contact you? I am a recent non-Hodgkins survivor and have blogged about my journey with the big C as well. My blog is called www.ichoosehope.com and I am happy to share it with you. I watched your documentary the first time it aired and cried throughout most of it. I recently spoke in front of 8,500 members of Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's Team in Training for the San Francisco Women's Nike Marathon in October. It was amazing. And you can also check out a blurb about me here: http://www.newsweek.com/id/69786

I am proud of you and thank you for inspiring many women, families, friends, men, and humans to face their cancer or challenges bravely.

Peace,
Amy Bartlett

Mark Crismon said...

Hi Kris,

Been a while since I stopped by the blog to say hi, but I was thinking about you and thought I drop a note to tell you how sexy you and your courage are.

I am happy to see you educating yourself and others on the holistic approach to health. Your doing great work and you are awesome.

Much love, Mark

Dee said...

This post is fantastic. I love it, full of information! Definitely things to think about, and a lot of common sense as well.

:)

Unknown said...

thank you michael very informative... also i like your theory on the reason why smoking relaxed you.

Lindsay said...

Hey All-
Day three of the nerve pain..feeling almost sick to my stomach but forcing myself to try to stand up straight. I'm just going to take the elevator on campus wherever I can. Has radiated to my lower belly. Well here goes nothing...I'll write on my blog letting u know how this pain filled day rolls.

Michael it was a great post, I don't use wheatgrass but it has sparked my interest.

Has anyone heard of Capsaicon cream?

<3 Lindsay

TexasToCali said...

MIKE! Awesome blog my friend...AWESOME. Great writing and great knowledge.

Signing off, AND staying present,
Andrew

Joelene said...

It's great to see how we pursue our own health with passion--to live and breathe with all our being, paying attention to what is in this moment inside and outside the body.
I admire my brother's passion in his work. My sister has recently set up a business to sell seed and things.
See -- Donna Boyle,
Whole Life Greens, LLC--
www.wholelifegreens.com --
info@wholelifegreens.com --
802.793.2197

To all of us who are pursuing health and wholeness, and sharing experiences, may we be together in the light of love.

Lauren said...

Good luck Annalin and all of you dealing with pain. I'll be thinking of you.

Has anyone heard of Reiki? I'm going to do a workshop on it next month, but don't know yet how effective it is.
It's supposedly a way of alleviating pain by sending out positive energy. Somebody correct me if I'm wrong about the description.

Jamie said...

Great post! A lot of great tips and loads of info!
Well I've now downed two green smoothies over the past 4 days. And seriously, I had to really work to drink the whole glass! I desperately hope that juicing the greens tastes better.
Yesterday was a bad day with lots of junk food and sugar. I'm becoming increasingly discouraged with this new healthy change. I find it so hard and after days of salads I am starting to get sick of spinach and lettuce etc. and am hungry about an hour or 2 after I eat. I need a meal guide or something.

Lauren - Reiki (depending on who you talk to) involves accessing what Reiki healers believe to be the "universal life force energy" in order to facilitate healing. The energy flows through the reiki healers hands. There are also beliefs that intention is very important (so if the patient doesn’t sincerely want to be healed the energy won’t flow).

Michelle said...

Hi girls and guys!!!
Jamie: just curious, what do you use for your green smoothies? I've been doing the green juice and today i found a nice combo:
2 cukes, 2 stalks celery, handful of kale, 1 pear and 1 organic small lemon. Tastes pretty good!!
Michael: Thanks for an awesome post! Very informative and helpful! And why oh why are you single?? :O)...Whats really cool is that i am becoming part of a community of RAW food eaters and green juice drinkers where i live. Networking, joining forums and living this life has enabled me to meet lots of new friends online and in person! So, not only is it physically wonderful, its socially, mentally, emotionally, and every which way healthy!!! Kris as always my friend you ROCK!!!
MichelleJ

P.S. Anybody live in the NY area? If interested in Raw food get togethers email me michellejoy61@gmail.com...

Jamie said...

Hey Michelle J – Thanks for the juice list! i'll try that one sometime soon.
The first smoothie I made I used the Dr. Oz blend I found online (I hope it’s right)
4 Celery, 1 cuke, 1c Spinach, 1 Lemon (juiced), 1 Lime (juiced), 1 green apple, small handful of parsley (approx 1/4c) and some water.
There is supposed to be some ginger but I didn’t have any so I didn’t add that.
This one – too much celery for sure and I don’t like the lime- I’ll stick with lemon after this.

The second smoothie I made was on Saturday morning and I used the one that Kris mentioned in one of her blogs or comments:
cuke
avocado
handful of spinach
green apple
2-3 scoops of stevia (I used one teaspoon)
filtered water
ice cubes (didn’t use ice cubes)
1 scoop of hemp powder (hemp is very high in protein)
(I don’t have green vibrance so that wasn’t added)

I think I should have added some lemon to cut the “green” taste so much.

I think I need to just keep playing with the stuff. I don’t know.
I basically have been a bit down and discouraged about life and also about the healthy eating thing. I don’t have the will power that so many other people do (not saying I won’t keep trying!) And when I get like this – everything just seems to be “useless” :) It’s just everything – I’m finding myself to drained and tired to even bother making up some healthy food and am already out of ideas for meals with raw veggies. I’m not a fan of (for example) eating broccoli raw (unless it’s with salad or some type of dip) and just can’t seem to get “full” off just salad all the time. Sorry I’m complaining and I feel terrible. I have nothing to complain about really!

Michelle said...

Hi Jamie: I hear you about feeling bad sometimes, we all do. Cannot be positve 24/7 although that would be really nice wouldn't it? Your smoothie recipes (to me) sound really good!! May i ask, how old are you? You know everybody started somewhere with the green juicing and eating RAW...slowly of course. I do know one person in particular (a male) who was 400lbs. He was almost ready to do the gastric bypass and something inside of him said "DON'T" and he didn't. Instead he started the RAW diet, no transition, just did it one day and never looked back. To date, he has lost over 100lbs and feels and looks great!! Just a cool story i wanted to share with you!! Jamie, you can email me anytime if you want to talk privately...no problem. Where do you live? Be strong, my friend!! You will get through this and we are all here to help!!!
Michelle

Jamie said...

Ok I've maxed out my comment limit for the day! lol.
Michelle J - I actually just turned 30 on Saturday. So yeah - this is certainly something new. I mean overall I've been "healthy" in that I do be careful about my intake but I eat meat, bread, stuff like that. For my pasta (I have pasta occationally) I've always used whole grain for the past few years (same with bread and such). And I usually steam my veggies.
I guess the best anyone can do is keep trying right? Some may be more successful but really giving up is the only failure I guess.

Everyone here is so great. I don't think I've ever felt so "ok" with being honest about stuff.
I live in Saskatchewan (Canada). I think that most people here are from the US..but I could totally wrong! :)

Michelle said...

Hi Jamie, Wow, your far!! I am in NY!! Too bad, we maybe could have met at some point. I just bought a good bread you may want to try, its called Ezekiel 4:9 Sesame sprouted grain bread. I believe Kris uses this product. It is 100% flourless. Here is their website: www.foodforlife.com. I wasn't sure if i would like it but its really good. It's organic too!! I think the sprouted grains makes the difference!! Check it out!! Again, anything i can do to help!!!
Michelle

Missy said...

Oh Michael... you're single? Well... maybe you should hand deliver one of your wonderful nutrient-filled wheat grass trays to my house up here in Canada! ;-)

Witness said...

Jamie,
Hang in there lady! I totally understand how hard it is to stay on a diet (lifestyle?) like this. All last week I was doing so well, having huge salads all the time, eating almost no dairy, very little bread and then boom! Friday night I ate Mn'M's for dinner! D'oh! It was all stress related, I admit, I should have just done some yoga and eaten the damn salad, but those MM's were just STARING at me and it was all downhill from there. I say go online and type in "raw food recipes" and see what comes up. Its free and you might see something that catches your eye. Also, I am so NOT full on into the whole raw food thing yet, I'm taking baby, tiny, teeney steps towards this because its the only way I know I will ever stick to it. So I get excited if I manage to eat one raw meal a day! Because it's more than before! Just keep reading this blog and keep being honest to yourself!

Becky said...

I had a huge piece of cheesecake for my dessert at lunch after I had a huge raw juice this morning...it's ok....babysteps is the way to go. The fact that we're trying is a big step.

Lindsay said...

Oh Lordie. So today as I have been sharing I still wasn't feeling well. But I have good news...I am being switched to neurontin (sp?) and oxycodone. Praying praying praying this will help. If anyone knows anything about neurontin I would love to hear from you either on here or on my blog...

Now to elaborate on how sick and out of it I've been feeling I locked my keys in my car today...and had to pay $50 to get them out. I'm a college kid...that's a lot of money to me. I also live in Buffalo so I was standing there waiting to this locksmith FREEZING for 1/2 an hour. ohhh guys...it's been a rough few days.

RENATO DOHO said...

Hi! I just watched the Oprah program with you here in Brasil. You're wonderful! I just e-mailed the channel that broadcasts the Oprah program here to ask if they could broadcast your documentary, Crazy Sexy Cancer. I hope they could do.

Thank you for being the way you are.

Renato

bav said...

Michael,

Thank you so much for all the info! If someone is going to do a daily shot of wheatgrass, realistically, how much space does one really need to grow? I am assuming you need 2 trays, the current tray you are harvesting to juice, and one ahead to start growing the next batch? For those of us apartment dwellers, I am trying to sort out if I can functionally grow my own. I have been finding what I buy in the store, although it looks fresh, must not be, b/c it makes me sick. So if I can grow my own to ensure proper harvesting, I would like to.

Thank you!!

b

Babs said...

Kris,

I'm sure you probably know this already or even tried it, Dr.Bruess's Total "C-word" Care diet is quite similar. Let me know if you need more information on that.

bav said...

Ok, pain sufferers, Kris asked me to see if I could offer any guidance. So here goes.

Chronic pain is a tough sitch, I'm not gonna lie. Pain impacts every aspect of your life, how you eat, how you sleep, how you move. You may not even be aware of it, but people tense up when in pain, they contract, which shifts body mechanics, which creates for more pain. They hold their breath.

Many chronic pain sufferers, for reasons unclear, have systems that become increasingly heightened to trigger pain. Instead of having a little pinch to a mild stimuli, many chronic/neuropathic pain sufferers experience an excruciating pain to some small noxious event. It's like your system becomes over-sensitized. It somehow resets your thresholds, your "set point," your triggering mechanisms. This can be especially so with neuropathic pain, which a few of you specifically mentioned.

So, how to break the cycle??

Some of this is fact, some of this is my opinion. I am simply offering it as information. If it works for you great. If it doesn't resonate with you, that is fine too. I totally respect people's right to choose what is right for them. As I said, pain is no fun. And unfortunately, it is really up to the person in pain to get themselves out of it, so it is super hard, I understand that.
Medications are only one small part of the solution. So it is awesome you are communicating with one another about it!!

First and foremost, I think the Crazy Sexy Lifestyle is just as important for chronic pain sufferers as it is for canSer babes. If you have both, even moreso!! In order to allow your body to return to what I will call a "zen state" ie pain-free, we need to get out the toxins. As much as we do know, I think there is SO much more we don't know about what goes on in the human body. What are all those preservatives, chemicals, pesticides in our foods doing to those delicate nerves? To those pain receptors? To the feedback mechanisms our body uses to signal our brain to feel pain? I'm guessing not anything good. So keep those juicers revving, girls. Get that oxygen-laden green juice into your system. Do your best in your own personal life to reevaluate what your food choices are on a day-to-day basis. And start taking away the sugars, the refined products, the dairy. Get in the high-quality food products. We need to pamper your temple (your body) so we can restore peace and serenity. Nutrition affects absolutely everything we experience physically, emotionally, mentally....even pain.

Food combining for quick-exit will be critical for you if you are on pain meds. Narcotics are incredibly constipating! Even if you are still pooping, believe me, the motility in your gut is slowed. So whatever you are ingesting, it is sitting inside you for longer than normal b/c the whole system is slowed down b/c of the pain meds. So, again, consider trying to go more towards Kris' suggested nutrition tips, and away from a mainstream diet. You may want to stock up on smooth move tea, aloe juice, whatever keeps your pooper moving.

Next, I encourage you to find a way to move your body. I'm not talking marathons here, or anything that is going to put you in the fetal position due to pain. But depending on your kind of pain, research has shown that inactivity makes things worse, and yes, even for neuropathic pain. Can you find a nice, gentle restorative yoga class? A stretching routine? Swimming? Exercise accomplishes a number of things. It stretches the fascia, the ligaments, muscles, everything that contains all kinds of nervous tissue. This helps to release toxins being held, to pull blood (ie oxygen) into the area, to contract lymph vessels, to help carry away tissue wastes. I'm not going to lie, the first week might be rough, if you haven't been active for awhile, but that should quiet quickly. Soreness should feel different than pain. In addition, exercise releases all kinds of yummy hormones in our brain, not only endorphins, but others that lift mood, increase energy, and yes, help decrease pain!! So, do what you can. Even if you start with a minute of dancing in your underwear, shake that booty somehow!

Depression often goes hand in hand with pain. How could it not?? It is miserable to hurt constantly. And chemically, what goes on in the body and brain, there are reasons for this. If you are prone to depression, ongoing pain may make it worse. If you are new to pain and never have been depressed, don't be surprised if you find yourself in new territory. Constant discomfort permeates into every area of your life and it can wear you down! So you need a strategy that works for you. I do encourage chronic pain sufferers to find a great therapist, social worker, shrink, minister, whomever, to touch base with weekly. Someone to vent to, someone to give you some perspective about how awesome you are doing with all that you are trying to juggle. Someone who can suggest meds if that is appropriate for you, or guide you to someone who can. Keeping your mental closet as tidy as you can is really going to help b/c pain effects the brain so much, not just the body part where you experience the pain!! This does NOT mean you are having pain b/c you are depressed, or that it is all in your head or anything like that. It means, unfortunately, your brain is involved in the pain feedback loop. That is how our body is set up, it's just anatomy. So attending to the health of that organ (yes, your brain) is going to help the pain syndrome.

Seek out alternative providers. Osteopaths trained in "Manipulative Medicine", craniosacral work, fascia release can do wonders for pain. I'm not talking the wrenching, cracking kind of manipulation. I am talking GENTLE, where you aren't sure what (if anything) they just did. But somehow a few days later, you feel WAY better. I recommend looking for someone who specifically deals with chronic pain. I can't live without mine. And b/c they are doctors, insurance covers it.

Acupuncture is phenomenal for pain! Certain kinds of pain receptors are in our skin. They each correspond to a certain area, think small circular patch. The acupuncture needle stimulates that little meridian, like dropping a pebble in a pond, it then sends ripples out. By stimulating the area, it then actually allows that pain pathway to quiet down. This can transmit to deeper (beyond the skin) internal pain meridians. Many insurance plans now cover acupuncture, check with your carrier.

Massage, is a delightful blend of the benefits of exercise, osteopathy and acupuncture all rolled into one. I suggest someone trained in myofascial techniques, acupressure, physical therapy/sports massage. These folks tend to have increased training in the anatomy of pain fibers, pathways etc. And yes, many insurance carriers now cover massage. If the first person you see doesn't give you some relief after a few sessions, try someone else. Massage manually moves toxins out, draws blood to an area, releases spasms, moves lymph, contracts muscles, stretches etc etc. It may "hurt." I am not talking about going for a relaxing, zone out massage. I am talking about going for a "massage treatment." You need to be able to communicate with your therapist about how much pressure is too much, about what you can (or cannot) tolerate. There are therapists out there who specialize in pain, call around, ask if they work with neuropathic pain sufferers, chronic pain etc. My massage therapist can make some of my pain go away completely that cortisone shots did not help! Seriously.

I like arnica. You can rub it on a certain area if you have a joint, muscle etc that hurts. But you can take it as a pill for you neuropathic girls. I am not familiar with the MSM you mentioned, what does it stand for? I am a fan of Naturopaths if you want to find natural remedies. They know their stuff, and can work with you. This will be important if you are on pain meds, b/c some of the herbal stuff impacts how those are metabolized.

Annalin, it's funny, I was thinking, that girl needs to be on neurontin, and then I got to your final post. Neurontin (gabapentin) was actually developed as an anti-convulsant. We don't know how it works though. However, it used more now for its off-label uses for post-herpetic neuralgia and chronic neuropathy. Lots of diabetics are on it for their neuropathic pain. It is a great drug. And I much prefer it to narcotics. It has a short half-life, meaning it peaks in your blood fairly quickly, and then starts to drop off. So for best effect, try to be religious about your dosing times. If you are going to be strict about anything, be stringent about taking your neurontin on time throughout the day! Usually, you start off low (about 300mg) and work your way up gradually. This helps offset side effects, which tend to be minimal. If you do have some side effects, they usually go away within a couple of weeks, so hang in there. Side effects include, drowsiness, dizziness, GI upset (the main one), walking weird (ataxia) etc. Do NOT take antacids 1-2 hours within having taken neurontin, they decrease the absorption of the drug, which can lead to toxic levels. Do not mix with any other CNS depressants (alcohol, sedatives, antihistamines, opioids etc.) It can also lead to increased CNS depression (sedation, lethargy, coma if severe) if mixed with kava, valerian or chamomile. It is metabolized via kidneys, not liver, so if you have renal disease, watch your kidney function. Don't become pregnant or nurse, it does enter breast milk, or talk with doc first. Use caution with driving when you first start taking it until you know how it is going to affect you. I have seen lots of success with this drug for lots of people. I have seen the reverse, no effect, for others. But for the most part, titrated to the right dose, it can be awesome.

And don't forget to breathe. I am a proponent of breath therapy. If you can't find a certified breath therapist near you, or can't afford it, you can do it at home. Simple techniques, with tremendous benefits. When I first learned of this 15 years ago, I thought it was hooey. Until I went for my first session. Amazing what happens when we breathe properly!

I think dry brushing is a quick easy thing to do that could help tons too, especially being on narcotics. But I will let Kris dish on that subject.

Pain Service, those guys know a LOT about pain. They are usually anesthesiologists by training, so their bedside manner may need some evolution, but these guys know pain. A good group will have a comprehensive pain program that only has meds as one part. Ask what services they offer. Is there a pain support group? Alternative therapies? Social workers to touch base with you? etc etc Like anything in life, there are great doctors, mediocre doctors, and not-so-great doctors. If you did not have a good dynamic with the first person you saw, see someone else. These guys can be an incredible resource, challenge them to do better, to learn more, to stretch their boundaries.

Whew! I'm sure I forgot something, but those are my highlights. More than any other problem, I think pain requires a comprehensive approach. Take Kris' Cancer Tips book and replace cancer with pain. I encourage you to tackle it from all angles, from a crazy sexy lifestyle perspective. I empathize. I know it's hard. But it can be done. And because you are here on this blog, you are claiming your power, you are on your way to finding for yourself what heals your body. And I can't applaud, encourage, support you enough in that endeavor.

Big hugs,
b

tink said...

Kris,
You are suchan inspiration to us all!! My mother has breast cancer that missed her so much..it came back after a 7 year vacation. Now is it visiting her in her bones, abdomine and liver. My sister and I are always thinking of new and better ways to live our lives and our mom is finially getting on board with us, she has changed her dish soaps to natural ones, she eats more organic and she loves your green smoothie (as do I, I make it every day!) thanks for all the information you provide us with..may we all live happy, memorable lives and for any of you out there that are in pain, you are in my thoughts and prayers!!
M

LauraB said...

Good morning people,
I want to share with you the fabulous morning I had with my kids (they are 5 and 2 1/2.) We have this fabulous children's CD titled 'Kids in Action.' It is a series of inter-active songs ranging from dancing, stretching, resting and even going on that infamous 'Bear Hunt' we all did as kids. This morning my 5 year-old asked if we could do "Kids in Action' before going to school, why not, it got them to turn the TV off! So, I decided to jump in with them.....a little dancing with myself and my boys....twirling them around the family room is so much fun, a stretching, reaching, tip toe walking, bear hunt finding, a marching, deep breathes and lots of arm-movements to say the least. Not only was it a blast playing with my kids and not only did I feel great after moving around, but my 5-year-old hit the nail on the head. A few minutes after we were done playing around he came up to me and said, "hey mama, I feel great after doing "kids in Action, I love it. We should do it everyday in the morning, it is a great way to 'get movin'" I kid you not, he said those exact words. It just goes to show we should all step back and listen to the innocence of children. My kids see my husband and I exercise all the time, in fact they even do some yoga stretches with us and pretend to lift weights and "go jogging." etc. (It is amazing the down-ward dog pose a 5 and 2 year old can get into.....they are so flexible. I think partly because they have no stress in their bodies yet. So, enjoy your day, juice it up and in the words of my 5 year-old....get movin'! Kris, I know this is an echo to your mission, but it is so important so I thought I would share.

This is my first Thanksgiving on the Living Foods diet. I am a little nervous of how I am going to do. We are going to my parent's house and although my mom is very supportive, there will be loads of food that I don't want to eat. My cravings have mostly subsided these last few months, but I don't want to fall off the wagon. I do have a cleanse planned for next week, but wish me luck.

Thanks, Laura!

Jamie said...

A little off topic but would love some feedback:
An acquaintance of mine did her agriculture thesis on organic and non-organic vegetables. According to the research and findings, the organic veggies were much higher in heavy metals than non-organic. What is worse for us, the pesticides and chemicals or the heavy metals? I’m not 100% certain if the testing was also based on certain areas of growth (i.e. specific soil)?

Another thing I’ve learned is (and I guess we really all know this) advertising can be so misleading! I watch a news report that found that some stores that claim they sell organic produce actually treat the produce with chemicals once they have arrived at the store.
I guess in today’s world you just have to do the best you can. There is no way to be 100% sure of anything anymore. A great article here on what “Organic” really means (although note this was written in 2000 and pertains to Canada and I haven’t looked into any new laws regarding inspection) I still say that eating a veggie that has not been sprayed with pesticides but may have some contact due to a nearby farm that does spray (even with great distance this stuff does carry!) or where the soil may have some contamination from water run off … well it’s better than eating one directly sprayed right?
http://www.cbc.ca/consumers/market/files/food/organics/index.html
I actually found a lot of interesting stuff in their archives related to food: http://www.cbc.ca/consumers/market/files/food/index.html

Jennifer said...

just t - Sorry for the delay in responding, my son was home from school, sick yesterday and then last night I got very dizzy and hot and took my temp and it was up 3 degrees from where it normally is. I was just bragging to family about how healthy I am, so I guess that's what I get! I don't have canser either. I joined this blog because canser is all around me and I want to help the ones I love who do have canser, and prevent it from getting to me. I do have other health problems that I believe can also be healed through diet, and the juicing is the most beneficial diet change I've made in my entire life. Since I started juicing I have stopped craving sugar. My husband said since he started the juice he hasn't had a single soda. I realized that i hadn't either, and didn't want one!

BAV- MSM stands for METHYLSULFONYLMETHANE. Big word huh!LOL. I believe it has changed my life. I was living in chronic pain and really wanted a natural way out, and I think I may have found it.

I just finished reading a book that I wanted to share. It is called "The Juiceman's Power Of Juicing" by Jay Kordich. He talks about wheatgrass and specifically how to grow it and credits Hippocretes Institute for there work with wheatgrass. And this book is from the early 90's! There are a lot of good juice recipes and info on the what each veggie and fruit give us nutritionally. It's a great book, and I got if from the library so it was free info!

I also just finished Kris' book Crazy Sexy Cancer Tips. GREAT BOOK! I would be happy to send it on to anyone here that can't afford to buy it. Just let me know and I'll put it in the mail.

Jennifer

Dee said...

Jennifer- (goony) that juicing book sounds really interesting! I'm definitely going to see if I can get it from Bookswim or something.

Thank you so much for that info :)

Dharma said...

Bav- WOW !! thank you so much for taking all that time to share all the great info !! thank you also for supporting us non-canser babes ! Kris's book is changing my life big time !! i'm juicing ( not enough, but i'm trying ),i'm dancing to one song a day ( not well, but again, i'm trying ) i'm singing loudly in the shower ! i made my alter ! and more. i agree that the crazy sexy lifestyle applies to us " chronic " people too.
I do have one question for you. what are your thoughts on coffee ? thanx.

laura- what a great story about you and the kids ! My eight year old daughter and i do my daily one dance together. though she prefers to dance to " big and rich" or " bon jovi ".lol

goony- your inspiring me to start juicing more. i get so lazy about it cuz i hate to clean the damn juicer ! i can't wait till Kris comes out with hers, i need to up-grade. i'm curious, do you do wheatgrass ? if so, when and how much do you do ?
you also reminded me that i have the " juicemans " book ! i bought it when i bought his juicer along time ago. i just went and got it and dusted it off. i forgot what a great book it is ! he has juices in there for EVERYTHING ! he even tells you what order to juice everything for the optimum amount of juice. thanx so much !
I hope you and your son are feeling better !

bav said...

just t,

no worries, girl. i have been doing some reading today on the MSM you take. and went back to your origingal post to remind myself of your health issues, lupus and fibromyalgia. and this is my OPINION on what I learned. Basically, I believe you are getting benefits from the MSM b/c it is counteracting the inflammatory, acidic, allergic, mucus-laden condition most of us are in b/c of our diets. Kris' goal of alkalinity for us all, if you can commit to it, I think could potentially not only make you pain free, but vastly improve, if not resolve your health problems. Yes, I know it is a bold claim, but I truly believe this. Seriously.

Both lupus and fibromyalgia have inflammation and immune system components in common. In fact, are major factors in both. Girl, I know it seems overwhelming at first thought, but I really encourage you to get on the crazy sexy lifestyle - pronto. I think it will change the quality of your life tremendously. I realize trying to change overnight is not realistic, I'm not suggesting that. Pick one place to start, and just begin.

Because alkalinity is key for you, I would encourage you to avoid coffee. I know, I know. But caffeine is super acidic, not good for your constellation of problems. Herbal organic tea instead?

I actually am incredibly hopeful for you. I think you have the power to help your body return to "zen." It will take some learning and work, but you CAN so do it.

Viva la Crazy Sexy Lifestyle for all!!!

Hugs,
b

Dharma said...

bav- thank you so much for the words of encouragement ! i just sat here and cried for a good ten mins. i think it was good tears ?! i feel relieved and empowered that someone belives this crazy sexy lifestyle will help me ! the coffee thing sucks !! but i kinda knew that was coming.lol. thank you again for the encouragement ! i think i'll wear my cowgirl boots tomorrow !!!

Basic Me said...

Hello Kris and everyone.. I have missed you all. Misson work and Thanksgiving are crazy nutty times. I have been catching up and I am amazed at the posts and the content. bav. is brilliant as always. Micheal did a fabulous job.. and I am loving the instant energy from the wheatgrass.. I just down it like medicene and have been lucky.. I wonder if it would hurt it to mix it with other things in the beginning to keep the nausea down? Other greens. I know many need a transition diet to move to all raw and the wheatgrass and the colonics.. babysteps.. I have to say it make you feel great though..

Roslin- I am going to put my two cents in and it is worth just that. But I have a ton of misable experience with pain. I am recovering from bone cancer. I was told the leg has to come off.. well I said NO and I was given a choice. The could cut every nerve from my hip to my knee and I could live in excruitiating pain forever or they could take the leg. Well hell a girl has to have toenails to get a pedicure and I wasn't going in for the half price special on the five toes for less deal. So ha. pain... Pain..and pain I was never ever prepared for. I feel like someone is ripping my flesh off and setting me on fire all the time. But there is light at the end of the tunnel. First. Get to someone who is a neurologist and pain specialist to help you. There are several really specialized guys out there and find someone that works with you. Tell them what you want. I tell my precious dr. no pain and no pills and he laughs and says someday!! And we move on. Now here are some alternatives that you may not know about. A neurologist pain specialist not anesthesiologist can go in and shoot those nerves that are aggravated with marcaine I opt out of the marcaine/depo-medrol steroid mix because I am not into the roids they make you bloat feel like shit and gain wieght.. haven't we all got enough going on. Anyway my guy is great. I get 27-33 nerve blocks and epidurals to keep me pain free(as I can be) for six weeks. Now when I first began this treatment he told me I had to workout and the treatment would slowly build in effectiveness. Five years later I can walk seven miles a day... I still hurt and burn and I take meds.. and they are high power meds like Kadian slow release morphine that allows me to never even know that it is releasing and I can have a normal life. But if I miss the meds or the shots.. BOOM bedtime for weeks. Now the effects vary but most of the time I can function and I have a high energy high maintance life.. So I got my life back. And I dont have to be screaming in pain or losing my mind. Neurotin works for many folks.. so does Lyrica.. that is a new one and it is good. I haven't had much luck with them and they made me feel sick as a dog. I also cannot say enough about getting ahead of the pain. If you can find a dr. and get him to relieve your pain.. then keep ahead of it.. life is much easier. Listen to you body and don't overdo.. if you dont sleep your pain will be higher.. stress same thing.. so balance is key. this diet has helped renew my energy and my lifestyle has improved. My husband has ALs and it comes with pain of its own and different treatments. I can tell you this a heating blanket and Lidoderm patches if the pain is epidermal they can help. Capsasain can light your world up. And cause it to hurt more. I have a theroy that any irritant can make things worse. Think alkaline and soothing. I do think elimintation is so important and when you have gotten the crisis down then work to keep it down. If I can do anything for you please let me know. There are two Dr.s in Alabama that take assignents from all over the country.. if you want thier numbers please email me calliekyle@comcast.net I hope your pain is better today and you find relief. And if there is anything I can tell you is dont take no for an answer. Find someone to help you call the dr. until he helps or get a new one.. and dont get frustrated.. It will get better. Pain.. can be controlled. And today is the best day to start. I will be praying for you and sending you my thoughts and prayers. Callie

Lindsay said...

Hi Callie & everyone!
Day 4 and my pain has reduced to a dull ache. A little ache in the shoulders and a some pain when I deep breathe but NOTHING compared to the weekend when I was bedridden. I had a "normal life day" today. Did everything I had to do and more. Started my neurontin last night before bed and it KNOCKED ME OUT!! Boyfriend said I didn't move all night. My nurse practitioner told me to start off slow, one before bedtime and work my way up to 3 a day if my body can handle it.
Callie- I love how you referred to being stuck in bed when the nerve pain acts up. I think the only people who understand the pain we go through are the people who actually watch us get in the fetal position in bed and scream into a pillow. Thank you for all the ideas and advice I appreciate it more than you know.

I guess I figured since I was 20 I could handle pain on my own and I didn't need meds. I thought my body was young and would just take it and bounce back a day later. Finally after I couldn't take it anymore I called my canser institute and they got right on it, I had my new medication that day. I guess when I got the C it was such a huge blow to me bc I lead a very active life. I was a competive cheerleader all through elementary-high school. Being active keeps me sane!! So my body was very in shape before I had massive surgery and afterwards it has and probably never will be the same. That's hard to accept, but I bike at a local gym and plan to do a lot of swimming on my Florida trip, which I leave for this Thursday!!

I am considering trying acupuncture when I am able to and I have a gift certificate to a spa from my recent birthday. So I plan on trying some acupressure or gentle massage, since my nerves don't affect my back too much. I also want to clarify that my DR's are amazing, in fact I have an entire team that works with me not to mention an entire pain management team. It was my own fault for not telling them how I was feeling...not their mistake. Roswell Park is fantastic facility with research going on 24/7 very exciting!! I actually donated my tumor to research. Well everyone I just wanted to keep you updated since you have been so helpful with all your advice, thank you again so much. It's nice to have people who know what it's like to be...US!

Basic Me said...

Hey Roslin,
I am so happy you are feeling better. I understand so much how it feels to look down and your body seem not like yours anymore when my tumor was removed I thought oh this will be little hiccup and I will be back on the road to being me. Well hells bells and shot gun shells.. did I have a surprise coming because I generally take the harder road I didn't have the leg removed after the required year in bed to let the graft that had never been done heal.. I was no longer the soccer babe that road a horse all afternoon play soccer in th morning.. and run.. oh I loved to run.. but giggle I still run.. it hurts like hell but it works and lovely dr. oz says in seven years you can rebuild your body.. I am going to be back to being so buff I may just photograph it and hang it over the fireplace haha.I know how you feel about your body being the same. But I bet all kidding aside that you will come to like yourself more everyday.. and no matter what anyone says 20 is terrific but 40 hold on to your socks.. if fabulous.. and you have the best years left to live and be amazed by the beauty in you and in life. I am thrilled your pain is better. It will give a lot of folks praying for you a great sigh of relief. Many Blessings dear one.
XOOXXOXOXOOX Callie

selftaughtgirl said...

I'm also hoping for some help with what to do if wheatgrass makes you feel nauseated. Is it okay to have the shot of wheatgrass mixed in with, say, some lemonade? Or will it completely dilute the benefits?

Elaine said...

Michael, keep doing what your doing. I am new to drinking wheat grass, and totally see the benefits. Will be starting my own mini greenhouse soon and will be contacting you for some tips. thanks

beautylogicblog said...

My mom cured herself from lymphoma with the Ann Wigmore diet. Amazing