Countdown Alive...Week Number Five!

Dear Blogger Family and Friends,

A big Texas "howdy" to one and all. How about a super-sized smile to go
along with that side order of hugs! As always, we look forward to your
weekly visit and thank you for stopping by! Now, grab a seat and get
comfy because we have loads to catch up on!

"Life has meaning only in the struggle. Triumph or defeat is
in the hands of the Gods. So let us celebrate the struggle!"

- Swami Sivananda

Perhaps we should pick up where we left off last week.....I believe it had
something to do with a PARTY!!!!!!!! Yep, that's it.... And with another
week tucked under our belt, the countdown stands at 5 weeks before
the public debut and Launch Party for The Faces behind Breast Cancer! YIPEE! Our goal is to raise tons of money for
M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, so please keep the RSVP's and book orders coming!

This week, the Pink Crusader thought it might be fun to give you a
"sneak peek" at the Party Program. We are delighted (and very fortunate)
to have breast cancer advocate Patricia Jennings as our keynote speaker.
In addition to being a vibrant, dynamic woman and IBC breast cancer survivor,Mrs. Jennings has most recently worked to get the New Mexico legislature to approve $3.3 million for IBC (Inflammatory Breast Cancer) research, in collaboration with M. D. Anderson Cancer Center. She is a true "she-ro" and shining example of how one person can make a difference. I should also add that she is the mother of five children and the wife of Senator Tim Jennings of New Mexico. How does she do it???????

Along with Patricia Jennings, we are pleased as punch to have guest speakers (and breast cancer survivors) Cheryl P. Donlin, from Pink Ribbons Project, speaking on behalf of the female participants in the book, and attorney Douglas Ustick speaking on behalf of the male participants. Cheryl and Doug are extremely active within the local cancer community and are known to many of you through their volunteer and outreach efforts. You may also recognize their names as co-hosts of a recent series of featured breast cancer programming on KPFT radio's "Open Journal," in affiliation with Pink Ribbons Project.

The program will follow-up with a special Tribute Video to the Faces behind Breast Cancer, produced and edited by friend and Marquette alumnus, Blane Smith of WABC, New York. Blane's mother is a breast cancer survivor and we appreciate the beauty and sensitivity of his artistic montage. Unfortunately, Blane will be unable to attend the party due to a scheduling conflict, but number one son, Dalip, will be on hand to introduce the video on Blane's behalf.

We will conclude our luncheon with a spirited and uplifting vocal performance by Michael Richards and the M. D. Anderson Celebration Singers, followed by a book signing event and media opportunity to meet the author, photographer and participants in the book.

Don't forget, everyone will receive a lovely goodie bag compliments of our generous sponsor Cellcosmet of Switzerland. Plus, you will have plenty of time to browse, bid and buy a huge selection of items at the Silent Auction and Vendor Bizarre. Tempting, isn't it? Then go for it, my little babies!

Okay, the oxygen supply is getting low....need to have something to talk about next week. We'll meet again....same time, same place!

For information regarding Invitations, Hotel Accommodations, Book Orders
and Payments, please refer to previous blog posts dated July 8th and July 15th.
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Personal Note: Our heartfelt thoughts remain with friend and fellow survivor, Julie Maas. Julie was released to home hospice care this week
and we ask you to join our prayer vigil for her and her family.
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This week's Written Contributions were submitted by friend and
co-survivor Marsha Yeager and long-time friend and co-worker Cecile Lavoie:

Marsha writes:

It seems we all over extend with responsibilities and put so much pressure on ourselves to achieve "everything." Coincidentally, I was reading an article in "O," Oprah's magazine, about how to stop worrying and how to give yourself a break. I liked this quote and so I am passing it on to you:

"There is nothing that wastes the body like worry, and the one who has
any faith in God should be ashamed to worry about anything whatsoever."
-Mahatma Gandhi.

Here is another one, a reflection, suggested by the Dalai Lama: "If you have some fear of pain or suffering, you should examine whether there is anything you can do about it. If you can, there is no need to worry about it. If you cannot, then there is also no need to worry."

Well, now... that is pretty good advice for all of us - Blessings, Marsha

Cecile writes:

SAVE YOUR FORK

There was a young woman who had been diagnosed with a terminal
illness and had been given three months to live. As she was getting her
things "in order," she contacted her pastor and had him come to her house
to discuss certain aspects of her final wishes. She told him which songs
she wanted sung at the service, what scriptures she would like read, and
what outfit she wanted to be buried in. Everything was in order and the
pastor was preparing to leave when the young woman suddenly
remembered something very important to her.

"There's one more thing," she said excitedly.

"What's that?" came the pastor's reply.

"This is very important," the young woman continued. "I want to be
buried with a fork in my right hand."

The pastor stood looking at the young woman, not knowing quite what
to say.

"That surprises you, doesn't it?" the young woman asked.

"Well, to be honest, I'm puzzled by the request," said the pastor.

The young woman explained. "My grandmother once told me this story,
and from there on out, I have always done so. I have also, always tried
to pass along its message to those I love and those who are in need of
encouragement. In all my years of attending church socials and potluck
dinners, I always remember that when the dishes of the main course were
being cleared, someone would inevitably lean over and say, 'Keep your fork.' It was my favorite part because I knew that something better was coming...like velvety chocolate cake or deep-dish apple pie. Something wonderful, and with substance!' So, I just want people to see me there in that casket with a fork in my hand and I want them to wonder 'What's with the fork?' Then I want you to tell them: 'Keep your fork ...the best is yet to come.'

The pastor's eyes welled up with tears of joy as he hugged the young
woman good-bye. He knew this would be one of the last times he would
see her before her death, but he also knew that the young woman had a
better grasp of heaven than he did. She had a better grasp of what heaven
would be like than many people twice her age, with twice as much
experience and knowledge. She knew that something better was coming.

At the funeral people were walking by the young woman's casket and
they saw the pretty dress she was wearing and the fork placed in her
right hand. Over and over, the pastor heard the question "What's with
the fork?" And over and over he smiled.

During his message, the pastor told the people of the conversation
he had with the young woman shortly before she died. He also told
them about the fork and about what it symbolized to her. The pastor
told the people how he could not stop thinking about the fork and told
them that they probably would not be able to stop thinking about it either.
He was right.

So the next time you reach down for your fork, let it remind you ever so
gently, that, "The best is yet to come."
- Author Unknown

Personal Note: Thanks to Marsha and Cecile for taking the time to share such lovely thoughts and inspirational words with all of us. We hope you will also pass them on to others who may benefit.
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FYI

From Donna Fong:
I use plenty of seasonings in my daily cooking and believe that is relieves a lot of my pain and helps prevent the cancer from recurring. It doesn't hurt to try. The cost is very minimum....plus, your food tastes delicious! - Donna

Spice Up Your Health With Everyday Seasonings
July 19, 2007

It's exciting to see the increasing focus of research on the health benefits of everyday spices like capsaicin for prostate cancer, turmeric to reduce inflammation, or ginger for nausea, to name just a few. A recent Wall Street Journal article reported how several plants abundant in China are being studied as a potential source of medicines by drug company Novartis AG. It's no surprise. Herbs and spices, derived from various plants, have a long history of medicinal use in Chinese medicine. So what else is there in the spice rack that we can use to "healthify" our meals in a delicious way?

"Everyday spices are an amazing source of phytochemicals, which are plant compounds with extraordinary healing properties," explained Jonny Bowden, author of The 150 Healthiest Foods on Earth (Fair Winds). "Many of these spices have been used in traditional medicine for hundreds of years, and Western medicine is just beginning to realize their potential." Here are a few of Bowden's top picks for powering up your foods:

CINNAMON
Let's take another look at cinnamon, for example. "There are anti-inflammatory compounds in cinnamon that can be helpful in alleviating pain, stiffness and even menstrual discomfort," said Bowden. "Additionally, compounds in cinnamon increase the ability of the cells to take in sugar, which is how it effectively lowers blood sugar and reduces the need for higher levels of insulin." A study published in Diabetes Care showed that cinnamon lowered not only blood sugar, but also triglycerides, total cholesterol and LDL ("bad") cholesterol in people with type 2 diabetes. Though it's not always the case with our other plant-based remedies, with cinnamon the inexpensive supermarket variety is basically as good as any of the pricier oils and extracts sold in specialty stores.

GINGER
Then there is ginger, known as the "universal medicine" in Ayurvedic medicine. Daily Health News readers have already heard about using ginger to soothe an upset stomach and quell nausea. (See Daily Health News article from December 9, 2003). In fact, in one study on ginger root, it was shown to be as effective as Dramamine in holding seasickness at bay. Ginger also packs plenty of powerful antioxidants, Bowden told me. "And animal studies show that ginger has antimicrobial effects and helps boost the immune system as well."

TURMERIC
Turmeric -- the spice Bowden waxed most enthusiastic about -- is a member of the ginger family, and also a heavy hitter in health benefits. "It's as close to a magical substance as you're likely to find in the kitchen cupboard," he told me. He attributes this spice's anti-inflammatory properties to "curcumin," which is also responsible for making Indian food and curry dishes yellow. In India, turmeric is used to treat arthritis precisely because of its ability to lower inflammation, Bowden said, noting that research indicates that curcumin also may have an anti-tumor effect. If you're not an Indian food eater, you can try it in rice dishes or even on eggs. Do not use medicinal amounts of turmeric during pregnancy, though, because it stimulates contraction of the uterus.

OREGANO
Another spice touted for its health properties is oregano, which Bowden tells me "has been shown by research to have 42 times more antioxidant activity than apples and 12 times more than oranges." Oregano contains a powerful cancer-fighting compound called rosmarinic acid as well, and its anti-inflammatory properties make it useful in supporting joint function. Oregano is also a source of calcium, magnesium, zinc, iron and potassium.

GARLIC
Of course garlic is not always used as a spice, but it does have a well-deserved reputation for adding flavor and boosting health. One of the oldest medicinal foods we know of, it is recognized even by conservative mainstream medical professionals as being helpful in reducing cholesterol. Bowden cited a study that found garlic reduces triglycerides by up to 17%. It has a small but notably positive effect on blood pressure. "In places where the consumption of garlic is high, there's a decreased risk of stomach and colon cancer," Bowden added.
Some other spices that have health-promoting properties include...
Cardamom. Another member of the ginger family, cardamom is in spiced chai tea and used to flavor Turkish coffee, and is added to baked goods in Scandinavia. It stimulates digestion and flow of bile.

Mustard seeds. These are a source of magnesium and selenium, and can be taken orally to stimulate appetite and circulation, and to help neutralize inflammatory materials in the GI tract.

Parsley. A good source of vitamin K and potassium, and also helpful for detoxification.

Rosemary. Contains lots of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, plus substances that help prevent the premature breakdown of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that's vital for memory and healthy brain function.

Sage. Contains rosmarinic acid (like oregano), which is both an antioxidant and an anti-inflammatory, along with thujone, which can be protective against salmonella and candida.

Thyme. Helps relieve chest and respiratory problems, including coughs and bronchitis.

MORE THAN A PINCH?
Since many of the research studies on these items used high doses of them, I asked Bowden how much of each is needed to make a difference. The answer varies, he said, but usually more than is typically used for seasoning is required to achieve a notable benefit -- though it seems logical that adding a variety of spices, more often and in plentiful amounts, would have a cumulative positive effect. Though some of the dried spices retain their healthful properties, usually fresh herbs are nutritionally superior -- not to mention delicious, and fun and easy to grow. (You can read more about creating your own herb garden in the Daily Health News article from April 6, 2004.)

One thing that is especially nice about Bowden's recommendations is the fact that all of these spices are common flavors you can add to all sorts of foods -- they're easy to find and don't require a refined palate to enjoy. So go ahead and spice up your menu -- your food will taste more interesting and you'll feel better, too.

Jonny Bowden, a certified nutrition specialist, is the author of The 150 Healthiest Foods on Earth (Fair Winds) and the forthcoming The Most Effective Natural Cures in the World (Fair Winds). His free audio course on
7 Super Foods is available at www.jonnybowden.com.

Source: Daily Health News DailyHealthNews@dhn.bottomlinesecrets.com
Bottom Line's Daily Health News is a registered trademark of Boardroom, Inc. Copyright (c) 2007 by Boardroom Inc.
Required Disclaimer: The information provided herein should not be construed as a health-care diagnosis, treatment regimen or any other prescribed health-care advice or instruction. The information is provided with the understanding that the publisher is not engaged in the practice of medicine or any other health-care profession and does not enter into a health-care practitioner/patient relationship with its readers. The publisher does not advise or recommend to its readers treatment or action with regard to matters relating to their health or well-being other than to suggest that readers consult appropriate health-care professionals in such matters.

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DAILY REMINDER:
"Fund Free Mammograms"

Go to The Breast Cancer Site at http://www.thebreastcancersite.com/tpc/EEB_0115_BCSm
and help fund free mammograms for the homeless, working-poor, and
un-insured women. It costs nothing to you, except one daily click on the
pink "Fund Free Mammograms" button. You can even request automatic reminders via e-mail. Please make your free click now, and thanks for your continuing support! The Breast Cancer Site, One Union Square, 600 University Street, Suite 1000, Seattle, WA 98101 Phone: 1-888-811-5271

UPCOMING EVENTS: Mark Your Calendars and Save the Dates!

Artist Expo Houston 2007 partnering up with
Susan G. Komen For the Cure
http://www.artistexpohouston.com/
Calling all artists for the Artist Expo Houston to be held on July 24 28, 2007 at the Houston Marriott Westchase at 2900 Briarpark Drive, Houston. Classes will be held for a variety of art forms. Participants are encouraged to come on Monday , July 23rd in the Grand Ballroom, from 4-6:30 p.m. to paint a cork board in support of Susan G. Komen for the Cure Houston Affiliate. Artists can check out the newest products at the Artist Expo Exhibit Hall. Komen Houston Affiliate will receive $1.00 for every walk-in registration.

ROSEBUDS II MEETINGS
(For those who have had or are at high risk for recurrence
and/or metastasis) The Rose, 3400 Bissonnet.
2nd and 4th Thursday of each month 5:45 - 7:30 p.m.
JULY 26 AUGUST 9 & 23 SEPTEMBER 13 & 27
www.RosebudsSupport.org

ROSEBUDS MEETINGS
The Rose, 3400 Bissonnet.
Open to all Breast Cancer Patients/Survivors
1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month 5:45 - 7:30 p.m.
AUGUST 7 & 21 SEPTEMBER 4 & 18
www.RosebudsSupport.org
We look forward to seeing you!

KNOCKOUT ROSES
A support group for women diagnosed under 40
2nd Monday of each month, @ 5:45
August 13, September 10, October 8, November 12, December 10
The Rose, 3400 Bissonnet.
Contact Amy Rigsby, Technical Director of The Rose 713-660-6675.

SOS SUPPORT GROUP DINNER
Tuesday, August 14th, 6:30pm
The Black Walnut Cafe, Sugar Land.
RSVP not required.

Y-ME SHARERING NETWORK TELECONFERENCE
Clinical Trials: What's in it for Me?
Speaker: Hyman B. Muss, M. D., Medical Oncologist
Professor of Medicine, Univeristy of Vermont & Vermont Cancer Center
Wednesday, August 15, 2007 7:00 - 8:00 pm CDT
Register now at 1-800-221-2141 or visit www.y-me.org/sharering

2007 SUSAN G. KOMEN FOR THE CURE HOUSTON SURVIVOR PARTY
August 22, 6-8pm at The Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa
111 North Post Oak Lane
Special Guest: Dorothy Weston Gibbons, Chief Executive Officer, The Rose
Open to Breast Cancer Survivors only, RSVP by August 10th
For additional information visit www.komen-houston.org

"THE FACES BEHIND BREAST CANCER" LAUNCH PARTY
and fund raiser for M. D. Anderson Cancer Center
Sunday August 26, at 1:00 - 4:00 pm.
Keynote Speaker: Patricia Jennings, Breast Cancer Advocate
Come early at 12:30 for Silent Auction and Vendor Bizarre
Houston Marriott Westchase, By invitation only
Read blog posts for weekly updates or visit the web site www.pinkcrusader.org

LIVING FULLY WITH AND BEYOND CANCER
M.D. Anderson Network's 19th Annual Patient and Caregiver Conference
September 6-8 2007 Registration begins June 11
Marriott Westchase - Houston, Texas
For more info call 1-800-345-6324 or visit www.mdanderson.org/patientconference

TOUR DE PINK 2007
Pink Ribbons Project
www.tourdepink.org
Please join us on September 9th at Prairie View A&M University for our third annual Tour de Pink - the only Texas bike ride solely benefiting breast cancer. We offer 12, 23, 47, 63, 80 and 100 mile routes for cyclists of all levels! A post-ride festival will feature artists and entertainment from the Houston and Prairie View communities for cyclists, volunteers and their families. Form a team, join a team or participate as an individual! Not able to ride or make it out to the event? Register as a VIRTUAL RIDER, fundraise for the cause and reap all the benefits of the participants!

This is reminder that each participant is required to raise a $75 pledge in addition to their registration fee. You can donate to your favorite cyclist online now! Text PINK to 78247 to receive Tour de Pink updates on your cell phone! For more information on Pink Ribbons Project, please visit http://www.pinkribbons.org/.

THE ALICE THOMSEN LYMPHEDEMA AWARENESS GROUP of HOUSTON Meetings are scheduled on the 3rd Tuesday of every other month at the American cancer Society Building,6301 Richmond (between Hillcroft and Fountainview) at 7:00pm. The 2007 dates are September 18 and November 20th. For further information call 281-546-6438.

CANCARE MEDICAL UPDATE on METASTATIC BREAST CANCER
Telephone Education Workshop
Thursday, September 20, 2007, 3-4pm EST
Speakers: Joyce O'Shaughnessy, M.D., Co-Director Breast Cancer Research Program Baylor-Charles A. Sammons Cancer Center, Texas Oncology
Patricia Spicer, MSW, Breast Cancer Program Coordinator, Cancer Care
For more information, call CancerCare at 1-800-813-HOPE (4673)
Or register online at www.cancercare.org

2007 SUSAN G. KOMEN HOUSTON RACE FOR THE CURE
The Susan G. Komen for the Cure Houston Affiliate
Saturday, October 6, 2007 Sam Houston Park- Downtown
Race Day Schedule
7:45 a.m. Opening Ceremonies & Memorial Birds
8:00 a.m. Family Walk and Kids K by ConocoPhillips
8:15 a.m. 5K Coed Timed Competitive Run
8:25 a.m. 5K Coed Non-Competitive Run
8:35 a.m. 5K Coed Walk
9:15 a.m. Runners' Awards Ceremony
10:00 a.m. Awards Ceremony and Survivor Celebration
For more Information: Phone: (713) 783-9188 Fax: (713) 783-9187
http://www.komen-houston.org email: info@komen-houston.org

2007 BREAST HEALTH SUMMIT
The 2007 Breast Health Summit will be held on October 18, 2007 at the United Way in Houston. Please pass this information on to others who may be interested. Additional information will be sent out later by both e-mail and postal mail. If your mailing address has changed, please be sure to forward the updated information to Pat Dames at pdames@the-rose.org
The Rose
12700 North Featherwood
Houston, TX 77034
281-464-5150
Fax 281-484-7083
www.the-rose.org

"Sharing is Caring"
As always, The Pink Crusader welcomes your comments, stories, poems, and events. Posts are updated every Sunday. Please send your written contributions to thepinkcrusader1@aol.com.

"Celebrate we will, for life is short but sweet for certain."
- Dave Matthews Band

Until next week stay strong, stay well and keep on dancing up a Texas storm!

Love, Josie
The Pink Crusader
thepinkcrusader1@aol.com