Dear Prime Minister,

Dear Prime Minister,

I’ve written to you in the past regarding Employment Insurance and Cancer patients.

Again, I find myself to be very concerned at the way you are handling the Haiti event; leaving sick Canadians in your own country begging for benefits that cover cancer patients.

Not only do we have to struggle with the shock of being diagnosed with cancer; we have to face operations, treatments, stress, and the worries about where to turn for financial help in order to keep our heads above water.

Doctors tell us not to stress as this is not a good thing for a cancer patient; yet we are forced to borrow from more fortunate individuals in our surroundings, weather it be family or friends, near or far in order to pay our medications, rent, and daily items such as food, etc. – and we have to let our other, not so important bills accumulate and face penalties and other financial burden when not covered by a private insurance.

I was not fortunate when diagnosed with cancer – I had just begun a new position; and the employer did not and does not to this day offer insurance. I had to personally battle with Employment Insurance – which finally gave in – but for only 15 weeks. With everything I’ve been thru in the past year, 4 times to the operating room, radiation both internal and external, I am still without employment and have turned to my extended family yet another time in order to help me with paying the rent.

I see, according to a CBC news article, that my federal government is earmarking up to $50 million to match Canadians' donations to charities aiding relief efforts in earthquake-ravaged Haiti.

How about helping those here at home who helped you into power instead of those abroad?

I can see helping out Haiti, sending them our troops, help them rebuild, etc… but lets face it, our government is already in a poor financial state according to reports – and I stongly urge you to make a difference in the lives of your fellow Canadians.
I do not know if you or your family have ever had to face cancer, you are sad then you start to worry. "What if I die"? "How will my family keep our credit and finances together if I can't work and EI only covers 15 weeks"? "What do we do once our financial future is ruined"? My doctor says recovery from cervical cancer can take over a year, 15 weeks is a drop in the bucket. These and other questions will plague your family. And now add the fear and stress of recovery. (If you recover at all…)

I have been volunteering my time and efforts in order to raise HPV and Cervical Cancer Awareness within my community – in a way to give back to the National Cervical Cancer Coalition, a California-based grassroots organization, which I turned to in order to get information about cervical cancer when I was diagnosed as I knew nothing about this when diagnosed, nor did I find an organization whitin the limits of this great land of ours who could offer the same information and support as the NCCC did.

I strongly urge you to please step back and take a moment of reflection, and try to put yourself in our shoes. You say there is no money to help cancer patients in their financial drain, however you can clearly open up the federal checkbook for a country that was already in financial ruin because of their own government.

It’s difficult to sit back and not say a word about this situation. It really upsets me to the point that I will strongly reconsider my political views next time the federal elections come around. You sit back and do nothing for us – yet you are so free to give our money away – instead help those in need in your own country. And I lay emphasis on the word “our” money; as it is our tax dollars that keep this country afloat.

If you want to donate to Haiti, fine, do it with your dime, but keep my dime out of it, as I need every penny to stay alive.

Karen Eryou
Sherbrooke, QC

Blog Jan. 2010

It may seem like it's been awhile since I've written – and yes, you would be correct. It seems that I have been concentrating my energy on my Facebook page (http://tinyurl.com/qcnccc) updating it on a regular basis.

I was scheduled to have my six-month checkup with my oncologist this past November. I called back in July to try and set up an appointment, only to have been told I would receive a letter in the mail.

I waited. And I waited. And I waited some more… every day I would check the mail for this infamous letter that would never arrive. Finally on December 7th I was fed up and gave them yet another call to find out what had happened and why I did not receive my letter for my November appointment.

The receptionist who answered my call stated that my oncologist had been running behind in his appointments and that I would be placed on a list. I took a deep breath and responded with "what is your name please?" Upon her reply, she then asked me if I had complications or if something was wrong. I was quick to answer "I was diagnosed with cancer, and I want to know if I am still in remission or if there are any other remaining or new traces. Is that enough of a complication?"

She said I would have to wait until January, but would see what she could do. Funny how once I asked for her name, things changed; and two days later I received the letter in the mail, dated nonetheless December 7. How ironic is that.

My appointment was scheduled for January as she had mentioned.

On Friday, January 8, 2010 was my six-month appointment (a few months late, but better than no appointment at all) with my oncologist.

Chad was home on Thursday that week, and took me to my appointment. We arrived early, just in case he was ahead of schedule – no luck, we had to wait. There were a few people ahead of me, including one older gentleman who was furious that he had not seen the doctor already.

When it came my turn – I was greeted by a student intern who was quite kind, and asked me my history, and how I was feeling. I answered him that I was still very tired with a low energy level and he said he would go thru my file and also mention it to my oncologist prior to my examination.

A few more minutes pass, and my oncologist entered the room with his student intern – a few questions, then up onto the cold but lovely white paper covered black examination table. The nurse then entered the room. And yes, you know the routine… ugh. Not the best of times, or the nicest of positions, but something that you can not go without.

After a few pokes, jabs, and conversation, the examination was over.

My oncologist said that it was normal for me to be tired on account of everything my body went thru in such a short amount of time. He said it takes time for the body to heal. He also told me to go about at my own pace, and rest when I felt the need.

Upon his exiting the room, he said "I will see you again in June or July."

When I was getting dressed, I made a mental note to myself, call in April to make sure I give the receptionist enough time to get me on the June or July list!

One must take care of oneself.

Two days later, after this visit to the medical center, I came down with a very bad cold – and had to resort to codeine. I don't get it. I am so anal about using the hand sanitizers, not touching anything, and I still get sick. Thank goodness for codeine.

Karen Eryou

January 18, 2010

Note: Codeine based cough syrup and pain reliver is available OTC in Canada.

2009 NCCC Chicago conference – Relationships Matter

Chicago IL – Wow! That’s my comment.

I had such a wonderful time attending my first ever NCCC conference this past weekend in Chicago – it was very emotional – tears – joy – laughter – new friendships – good food – lots of interesting speakers – everyone sharing stories – ideas – with one common factor : HPV and cervical cancer.

The event was overwhelming. So many people gathered in one location with one goal – to promote cervical cancer and HPV awareness, prevention and education.

My first day in Chicago began with checking into the hotel - meeting Rachel – finding my room – changing my clothes and heading over to be interviewed. Upon my entering the filming room – I met the film crew – along with a very nice fellow Canadian by the name of Cynthia who works with Zayas Henrick Mediaworks – who have put together several video pieces for NCCC.

Then I attended a meeting for NCCC chapter leaders and attendees who were interested in starting their own chapter.

After – was a quick break and then the cocktail event where singer songwriter and cervical cancer survivor Christine Baze performed.

The next morning it was rise and shine – as a full day awaited me.

Shobha Krishnam, MD and author of the book “The HPV Vaccine Controversy: Sex, Cancer, God and Politics” was a fantastic speaker and explained that there are over 100 types of HPV; with 15 of these types that are cancer causing. She went on to explain that 99% of cervical cancers are caused by HPV.

The causes are variable; can be biological, weakened immune system, stress, poor diet, erratic sleep patterns, excessive alcohol, cigarette smoking, long-term birth control (the pill) – and it is important to stress that one can get HPV from a monogamous relationship.

She stresses that cervical cancer is the second most common cancer detected among women and that prevention is better than detection. How can you prevent you ask – vaccination at an early age before being exposed to the virus. There are two vaccines available now in the USA: Gardasil produced by Merck and the newly approved Cevarix by GSK.

Gardasil as we know it protects against 4 types of HPV: 6-11-16-18 while Cevarix protects against 16 and 18 types of HPV.

In both – it is a series of 3 injections – suggested age group: between ages 11-12 and 9-26. Why 11-12 age group? Because the antibody levels are high – and no contact has yet been made with the HPV virus. The vaccines work as a shield.

The side effects that have been reported are: Pain, redness and swelling at the point of administration. While the adverse side effects are more commonly recognized as fainting, blood clots, and progressive muscular weakness.

Dr. Shobha Krishnam is also promoting HPV and cervical cancer awareness in 10 villages in India.

The conference continued with a presentation by Dr. Juan C. Felix, who also mentioned that there are 100 types of HPV, however he stated that there are between 17-20 types that cause cervical cancer; and explained that with the sexual route, even using a condom can only reduce the risk, but cannot fully protect against HPV. And the non-sexual route, mother to newborn causes a vertical transmission of HPV as does undergarments, surgical gloves, and biopsy forceps.

One in 200 babies born will receive an HPV – types 6 and 11.

In the USA; studies show that 30% of girls entering high school have already had vaginal sex – this according to the 2003 US Youth Risk Behavior Survey; and by grade 12, 60% of girls have had at least one sexual encounter.

As Dr. Felix mentions, we need responsible education. Someone asked the question about where does HPV come from… he explained that it is known to have been around back in the days of the Egyptians – as he had personally located HPV in a mummy at Cornell University.

Dr. Laura Dean of Stillwater, MN spoke of HPV Typing and said that 80% of both men and women will get HPV in their lifetime. We all carry HPV, however some people have stronger immune systems and can fight the HPV naturally without every having any symptoms – others have weakened or lower immune systems and cancer develops.

ThinPrep according to Dr. Dean is much more effective than the conventional PAP smear testing. Over 90% of all gynecologists in the USA use the ThinPrep Pap test for their patients now as it is more effective at detecting precancerous cervical cells.

Dr. Dean spoke in depth about Genotyping and went on to say that the HPV vaccine is a positive advancement in preventing cervical cancer. Dr. Dean can be reached by email at: ldean@lakeview.org

“Sex after Cancer” was the presentation by Dr. Hilda Hutcherson – she spoke of a healthy sexuality; the effect of cancer on female sexuality, emotions and treatments.

She was such an interesting speaker – even had us laughing at her slideshow presentation at times. She also spoke about different products available to better help the enjoyment of sex after having cervical cancer and mentioned an online store where items could be purchased.

She spoke about the desire factor, sexual self-esteem, scheduling intimate time with your partner – and in her words “Just do it.” She also said that one must most likely change the sexual script after having cervical cancer as our bodies change dramatically; she explains, decrease emphasis on intercourse, be creative, be adventurous, be bold, use your imagination, and reclaim your sexual birthright.

Laura Mosiello is from cancercare.org – she spoke about what CancerCare is all about – cancer pain and physical, practical and emotional implications as well as ways to affect change for a better quality of life.

CancerCare services assisted more than 100,000 people in the 2007-2008 year. Some of the emotional implications that Cancer Pain and Cervical Cancer bring are the following: shame, guilt, body image and changes in self perception, sexual changes and dysfunction, intimacy, fear of recurrence and the fear of dying.

Laura spoke of the “New Normal” – Re-interpret, re-examine, re-define, re-new, identify new self, accept new self and embrace new self; and accepting of the “New Normal” which identifies losses of old self, mourn the losses consciously, communicate your needs, instruct loved ones how best to help, integrate familiar aspects of old self, engage inherent challenges and re-invest in life.

For more information on CancerCare please visit their website at : www.cancercare.org

One of the NCCC quilts was circulated around during the conference for each of us to sign. These quilts travel the US and are on display at different events; hospitals, clinics, etc.

My entry onto the quilt square was the following:

Cervical Cancer

Forever altered

Forever a fighter

Why me?

Thank you NCCC

For making a difference in my life,

And the life of countless others.

To see some of these quilts and to get more information on the display of them – please visit www.nccc-online.org

The day went on with speaker David Romanelli – author of “Yeah Dave’s guide to Living the moment, getting to ecstasy through wine, chocolate and your ipod playlist.”

What a motivation – he is great. I had previously seen an interview he did with WGN morning news team in Chicago a few months ago – while I was recuperating from my radiation therapy. David was previously Shaquille O’Neal’s publicist.

He showed us film clips we could all relate to – he gave us a brief look at his life with his father – and also had us on our feet to do a couple of simple exercises and then broke out the chocolate – nothing but Chicago’s best: Vosges Chocolate available at www.vosgeschocolate.com. On Friday we tried the Soul Truffle and the Funk n Disco truffle and on Saturday during yoga, we tried the Rooster Truffle and the Naga Truffle. YUM! That’s all I have to say!!!

David spoke of the “Now Moment” – and wants each of us to incorporate three moments each day – and to check them off our checklist daily. They are: one funny moment, one beautiful moment and one delicious moment.

He also made these three suggestions: look people in the eye, avoid the cell phone when meeting someone, and to take interest in the other person.

Life is just a series of moments, if you miss the moment you miss your life – this is life according to David.

After this great day – we had free time in the evening to go visit the windy city or just chill with our new friends. I was asked to go out with a couple of groups; however I elected to hang out with Cynthia from ZHM.

We went walking in the brisk evening air in downtown along Chicago’s Magnificent Mile – amongst a few misty raindrops – we ducked into a few stores, visited MAC makeup boutiques, Macy’s, Bloomingdales, Filenes Basement, NIKE, and many others – ending our evening at the Cheesecake Factory for a wonderful meal – then we headed back to the hotel – but we also ducked into a Walgreen’s along the way as I wanted to take a drink back to the hotel – and not have to pay the $6 for a small bottle of Fiji water back there.

We called it a night once back to the hotel –I enjoyed a good night’s sleep – and was up bright and early to give Rachel and Shaundra a hand at setting up the room and displays for the day.

We opened the morning with the great debate – should boys be vaccinated as well as girls against HPV. The debaters were Tom Cox, and Juan Felix. The answer at the end of the debate was yes – and Dr. Felix even said that all his children, 4 girls and 1 son have been vaccinated.

They also mentioned that to date there have been an estimated 23 million doses administered, and the FDA and CDC continue to find that Gardasil is a safe and effective vaccine. In Australia, both boys and girls have been receiving the vaccine for the past 3 years now.

Dr. Felix said that vaccinating both boys and girls will reduce the stigma about HPV and cervical cancer.

Tamika Felder – NCCC member, shared her personal story with the crowd. She was diagnosed in May of 2001 with advanced cervical cancer. She emphasised the importance of sharing your personal story with others. Also recollected the slides we had seen from the previous day about certain types of HPV infections and warned all of us to “stay away from tainted ding-a-lings,” this make us all chuckle.

We then had a Q&A period with Tom Cox, MD. Juan Felix, MD and Dijljeet K. Singh, MD – and this was followed by Jacqueline Whitmore who spoke of advocacy, awareness and social networking. She is also a cervical cancer survivor and shared her story with us.

My conference to an end after the hilarious and yet touching life story of Julia Sweeney, of Saturday Night Live Alumna and also a 1995 cervical cancer survivor. She is an amazing person, and was also celebrating her 50th birthday amongst us – and was presented with a birthday cake.

I had to leave as my flight was at 4 – have to be at airport 2 hours prior to take off with the TSA clearance and we were a few miles from the airport – the Chicago marathon was planned for Sunday and the traffic was busier than ever. I missed the closing remarks and I also missed receiving my certificate of participation – but I did take in lots of information, made new friends, brought back ideas, and I can’t wait for the next conference!

Thank you NCCC for a wonderful time – thank you to each and every one who attended and also thanks to those who spoke at the convention – you make life easier.

If I can help just one person – my goal has been obtained!

Karen Eryou

NCCC Chapter Leader

Facebook: http://tinyurl.com/qcnccc

Death of DJ AM

I can’t believe it – he survived a plane crash with drummer extraordinaire Travis Barker – yet he is found dead, apparently of an accidental drug overdose.

Wow, I am blown away – only last week I was on the truck with Chad, and as we were getting this trailer repaired at a TA truck stop – here comes a truck and trailer all lettered up with Travis Barker and Blink 182. It was carrying Travis’ red 1966 custom vintage Cadillac Coupe de Ville. I went over to the driver who did not want to roll down his window – when I motioned that I wanted to take a pic with the trailer – he gave me the thumbs up – Chad snapped a couple pics. The driver then saw we were harmless; and that I was a Travis Barker and Blink 182 fan – he came out of the truck and asked if I wanted to see the car.

Oh my God! I could not believe it – the driver opened up the side door of the hauler and let me look at it – it has a shine like you would not believe. The driver said that Travis actually drove the Cadillac on a regular basis. If my memory serves me correctly, I recall Travis actually driving this car on his television reality show. The Cadillac is estimated at 80,000$ US; and if can be yours – all you have to do is enter a contest, and State Farm is also throwing in concert tickets, and more.“As much as I enjoy giving [my car] to you, I’m really going to miss it.” -Travis BarkerThe contest is in honor of the Blink 182 reunion tour, and State Farm is one of the tour sponsors; which is why the car was being transported from venue to venue for display.

Now back to DJ AM’s death; whose real name was Adam Goldstein, 36, according to TMZ’s website – he was found dead in his NY City apartment on Friday, August 28.
Again, according to TMZ, law enforcement received a call at 5:24 pm on Friday – and he was pronounced dead at the scene at 6:00 pm by FDNY. TMZ sources said that DJ AM had developed a dependency to Xanax and benzodiazepines – as a direct result of the plane crash a year ago that he and Travis Barker had survived. He had apparently developed a tremendous anxiety over flying – and he had to fly frequently because of his job.

Photos TMZ website

This was DJ AM’s last public appearance was a week ago Sunday when he threw out the first pitch at the Mets game at Citi Field. And for those who followed him on Twitter – his last post August 25, 2009 at 2:57 pm: “New york, new york. Big city of dreams, but everything in new york aint always what it seems.”
These are the lyrics of the opening line of the Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five song “New York, New York.” RIP DJ AM you will be missed.

Riverside Speedway Clash of the Titans 150

Karen Eryou

Groveton, NH – On August 16th, PASS sanctioned Riverside Speedway played host to a great afternoon of oval track racing. There were several divisions of racing including dwarfs and modifieds.

The Mason Tractor & Equipment Sales sponsored, Clash of the Titans 150 afternoon began with heat races which were very enjoyable with lots of action and a few fender benders thrown in for more excitement.

On lap 21 of the 26-car LMS 150-lap feature, Pat Corbett went for a scary ride down over the embankment between turns one and two, rolling over several times, with his #5 automobile coming to rest on its wheels. It was reported that Corbett was shaken up, but was later released from medical care.

Groveton local and master at the wheel, Randy Potter was in contention for the checkers running in the top three for a good part of the event. However with only eight laps to go, it was fender to fender racing between Lee USA Speedway regular Wayne Helliwell Jr. and Quinney Welch. When the checkers flew, it was Helliwell Jr. who crossed the line first taking home the 5,000$ grand prize for the afternoon. Welch hung onto second, while Potter crossed the start/finish line third.

Helliwell Jr., had to be helped out of his car as he showed signs of heat exhaustion. He thanked everyone in his victory lane speech, including the fans and his racing opponents for putting on such a great show.

In the 50-lap cyclone feature event, it was the #41 automobile driven by Jeff Ainsworth who was victorious as the checkers flew, followed by the #29 of Anthony Mason and third was the #10 driven by Loren Vear. There were a couple red flags for minor accidents, and the #10x driven by Richie Veilleux went down over turn two on lap 32 but no caution was shown.

The modifieds, and dwarf divisions also put on a great show.

Check out Chad Burr’s action shots of this event at: http://tinyurl.com/lqv8ba

NCCC international chapter

I received word three weeks ago that I had been accepted by the National
Cervical Cancer Coalition (NCCC) as an International Chapter for the
province of Quebec.

I was so thrilled - and I've noticed that if I keep busy and positive; this
helps me thru the day. This week I translated some of their documents into
French; as well as did some research for Canadian statistics related to
cervical cancer here in Canada.

More people need to understand that this silent cancer can be treated with
early detection - and education, detection, prevention and support are all
very important in the survival rate.

It only takes a simple, not pleasant, but brief visit to the doctor's office
for a regular PAP test - and these results are what can make a huge
difference in the detection and cure of cervical cancer.

I am a fighter - and I was lucky -I had a doctor who wanted to take me on as
a patient, and was so thorough and sent me for all kinds of tests, including
a mammogram which I had never had - blood work and the PAP test. Sherbrooke's
own, Dre Raymonde Vaillancourt's vigilance is the reason I am the person I
am today. She sent me to Dr. Bureau, who in turn referred me to Dr.
Bessette, who in turn sent me back to Dr. Bureau and then onto Dr. Nabid. My
three month post-radiation appointment is scheduled for next month where I
am expecting good news.

I have come out of this life experience richer in knowledge, and I want to
share this with other women who do not know about cervical cancer, the risks
and dangers, as well as the preventative measures that can be taken
including vaccination.

Please take the time to make that doctor's appointment and get tested for
HPV and have the PAP test - it can save your life.

For more information about the NCCC and to become a member; please visit:
www.nccc-online.org

Or you can email me at: keryou@ nccc-online.org

Or leave a message at 819.432.4522 and we'll call you back asap

A lifelong dream comes true

I've been a fan of Jackson Browne for many years - heck every since I was a
teenager and I have never been able to attend one of his few concert dates
as he was not a regular visitor to our neck of the woods.

As I am still recuperating from my bout with cervical cancer and the
radiation treatments, and taking it easy, I saw an advertisement on CITY
television out of Toronto that Ottawa was hosting a Blues Festival and
Jackson Browne was one of the performers. I quickly logged onto their
website to see when he would be there; as Ottawa is not that far away. well,
once online came disappointment - he had performed a week ago; another
missed opportunity.

I then went to his newly remodeled website - and saw that he is releasing a
new album in September and is on a kickoff tour. Looking at the dates, I
could not believe what I was reading - Shelburne Museum, on the outskirts of
Burlington, Vt. on that very night.

I began calling to see if tickets were still available - advised Chad who
was just returning from a quick trip to Ohio - and he advised me he was off
as his truck was going to be in the garage for a bit. Checking with his
dispatcher, he got the thumbs up that he was off until the next day. By now,
it was 14:00, and the concert gates opened at 6 and the concert itself began
at 7 with no opening act. Shelburne, Vt., is approximately 3 hours away;
depending on traffic. We had to decide quickly and get moving. Chad took
over the computer and ordered the tickets, grabbed sweaters, and an umbrella
as this was an open air concert. Out the door, into the car, and hit the
highways and byways to get there at 5:55 - presented ourselves to the
makeshift box office tent, picked up our tickets and headed thru the gates,
down across a field, to the front of the stage, and spread out our blanket
and got comfortable for the evening.



What a concert! Jackson Browne is as awesome today as he was so many years
ago - he can still hit the notes and has a great band and backup singers. It
was such a non planned event and enjoyable evening.

He closed the evening with The Pretender - and a curtain call had them back
on stage for Load Out / Stay.

This was, an evening I will never forget - nor will I forget the sacrifice
that Chad made to make this dream of mine come true - as he had to return to
work today - and we never got home until 4 am.

Goosebumps, amazement, I was speechless, the music just took me back in
time, and my problems seemed to be non-existent for that brief moment. Today
is back to reality; tiredness and all, but the memory of this very special
event will never be erased from my mind.

Thanks Chad for making this dream become reality!