Monday: February 22, 2016

My first day of treatment lasted longer than expected and I returned home to my flat exhausted, cranky, defeated, and emotionally raw. Below is what I posted on FB - I was physically and emotionally unable to blog last night. I am leaving yesterday as it is. 

Minor emotional meltdown tonight. In short, I'm uncomfortable! I have an IV in my arm that is a small vein, causing pain if I move wrong and the infusions had to be slow dripped today due to pain/pressure - baby vein problems. 

Night sweats.

Hot sweats.

Weirdo German bedding.

No fan to circulate air. 

I could go on, but it all comes back to, I'm uncomfortable. So, after a long over due cry and a foot rub from Curtis, we made a plan. We reworked some things in the flat, plan to purchase some American bedding and find a fan. As for the IV, after tomorrow's infusions I will have it removed and find a new vein Wednesday. The IV's can only stay in for 2-3 days then have to relocate anyway. Mitigating my discomfort one baby step at a time.

Oh and the icing on the cake, I learned I get a shot in the behind every day for two weeks then every other day after that. Still teary but good; heading to bed. Send prayers, positive energy, and healing thoughts my direction.

Today, I am hopeful~

Sunday February 21, 2016

I was able to FaceTime with Jackson and Junior for a bit last night, that was nice. Our little puppy Junior was very confused by the entire event! We fell asleep around 12:00 last night and did not awake until 10:30 am. Still catching up on missed sleep and adjusting to the time change. I am feeling a great deal of excitement mixed with anxiety for the first day of my treatment to start Monday. I have a good feeling about this treatment and am hopeful that I will continue to have increased energy rather than feeling ill again.

Video of the day: https://youtu.be/WOGphiRSMKw

Sharing several photos taken from our roof top flat and along our walk to the center of town.

 

This was taken in a doorway to a business located along the cobblestone walkway. The area we are staying in has a dense population - housing is located above all storefronts. Although a bit windy today, the weather was warmer than it has been, around 54 degrees. There were many individuals out and about walking around. I was delighted to hear an English speaking family walking behind us today. The dad made a remark to his wife about someone being inebriated; the young child 5 or 6 years old asked what that meant - the dad replied when you drink too much or use drugs. While it may strike you as a mundane conversation - nothing special, to me it was refreshing to understand the mutterings that were occurring in my surroundings. I know I have spoke of the German people that we have encountered thus far as presenting as repressed and unfriendly. Another observation is that the number of smokers is incredibly high. There are discarded cigarettes all over the ground - it just smells like cigarette smoke nearly everywhere you go. I mean smoke if you may, but discard your cigarettes somewhere other than the beautiful cobblestone walkway.

Many know that I do not fancy being in large groups, tight spaces, or underground. Well, today I took the first step toward taking the underground transportation. Curtis and I jumped on the escalator to the underground train. However, we did not see a train but we did find an underground city. There were restaurants and shops. We only went about one city block underground and that was enough for me. Apparently the train is down another level underground - holy yikes. I have lots of time to continue to try new things and move outside my comfort zone.

Please send unlimited prayers, healing thoughts, and positive energy as I delve into this last chance breast cancer treatment. I hope everyone feels as though they are right here with me in Germany between photographs, videos, and my writings - I need you all and your support in order to continue walking this journey with grace.

Today, I am hopeful~

Saturday, February 20, 2016: First full day in Frankfurt

When we first arrived to our apartment, I used white sage to sage the entire space in an effort to clear negative energy, this apparently was only phase one of the clearing.  Late last night we were very tired from our travels, we decided to settle down early and we fell asleep around 9:30 pm. However, we both awoke around 11:30 pm and both of us thought it was morning – we were shocked to learn we had only slept a couple hours! I was recounting some odd dreams I was having, the setting was not in America, not sure if it was Germany, but all the dreams played out in a countryside setting and we spoke with accents of some sort. The dreams were disturbing – I found myself trying to protect children from brutality at every turn.  When I awoke, I grabbed the white sage and re-saged the apartment.  These dreams make me wonder about area we are staying, what the history of this building and the surrounding area may be – was I experiencing events of past days? I decided to shifted my mind to Corvallis and how my kids were doing; I exchanged a couple texts with them, learning all is well back in Corvallis. We were able to go back to sleep after taking a sleep aid – we are making efforts to get on German time, they are 9 hours ahead of pacific standard time. I awoke again around 6:00 am and texted with the kids again and went back to sleep. Later, I thought I heard someone knocking loudly on our door, but I continued to sleep and then a short-time later checked the time, it was 10:10 am. Excitedly, I woke Curtis and told him we had to get-up if we want to successfully get on German time. We slowly made our way to the shower and readied ourselves for the day. We emerged from our dwelling after making my first German “How to in Germany” videos. The video took two takes – I really cracked myself up doing the videos. 

How to in Germany Video Series:

Video #1 *take one https://youtu.be/iQZ8xraLlWw

Video #1 *take two https://youtu.be/t44hgNNK0GY

We then made our way over to the market. What stood out to this American, the cashiers sit at checkout, they do not stand! During our visit we stumbled around using our Google Translate app, it was clear we were foreigners. Thus far, the German people have not been a friendly people – they keep their heads down and focused on whatever they are doing, no time for excuse me, a smile, or an offer of assistance. Nevertheless, we find ourselves asking lots of questions - both parties trying to fill the language barrier. Curtis and I were both spent from that little adventure to the market but we pressed on to find something to eat. Close to our dwelling is a Bistro – thinking sandwiches and deli items. There was a menu posted outside the restaurant, in German. We enter and were greeted by a friendly young man, as he spoke German, I immediately began speaking English and was met with English. Yippee. English and a smile. The waiter presented menus, in German of course. I asked for an English menu, they did not have any however (some restaurants have English menus), straight-away, he offered to help. He announced that we were at an Italian restaurant – not what we were expecting but that was okay. I asked about Salmon and he described a salmon dish that sounded delicious; Curtis was given guidance too and chose a caramel tortellini stuffed with salmon. The food was delicious – my goodness I have turned into a foodie over the years.

PC – pre cancer diagnosis, I did not much fancy food and could take it or leave, except for chocolate! However, after my first chemotherapy infusion in 2011, I started loving food. If you read my blog you already know this story: I thought I wrote about it however, a quick glance at some early entries and I did not locate the beginning stages of my love for food. If I remember it correctly, it was several days after my second chemotherapy. Our house in Texas was nearly all packed and ready to move back to Oregon. Curtis and I were lying in bed watching Hell’s Kitchen, the contestants were cooking a salmon dish and I told Curtis I just had to have some blackened salmon along with some chips and salsa. He drove to a restaurant and order just that! While he was away, I drug my fatigued body out of bed, set-up the ironing board on the lowest setting –as my table, and sat in front of it waiting for my food to be delivered. When the food arrived, I strategically set out all my food in front of me and ate every single piece of food – it tasted so wonderful! Curtis was lying in bed watching me eat like he had never seen me eat before; he appeared a bit frightened by the site of me shoveling food feverishly into my mouth. This my friends was the beginning of me loving to eat flavorful delicious food.

Enough about food! We walked back to our apartment to drop-off the groceries and my leftovers then we headed back out in search of an umbrella, it is raining and chilly here. We too were determined to find the nearest Starbucks – this would give us a sense of familiarity. We did not find an umbrella but we did successfully locate Starbucks – it is located in the center of town and only about a 15-20 minute walk. Quick side note, German Starbucks do not accept the IPhone Starbucks payment app but did accept Visa as payment. We lucked out and avoided major downpours. There were two parks along the route and a Chinese Garden; it is supposed to be sunny by Wednesday this week so we will explore more when the weather turns. We made one last attempt to find an allusive umbrella but were unsuccessful we did however; purchase a bouquet of white tulips for the flat. During checkout, I handed the cashier my Visa – the cashier shook her head no and rattled off some German, the gentleman behind us said “welcome to Germany, credit cards are always tough for some reason Germans don’t like Visa…cheers!” 

We returned to our flat after being away for about 4-5 hours in total. When we stopped walking, I realized I had not taken a pain pill in I believe 24hrs, so I took one, followed by a hot soak – I love hot soaks. After relaxing a bit, I cut some vegetables to make a fresh vegetable broth; it will cook down for three hours. Well, there you have it, our first full day in Germany was quite successful. Cheers~

Teaser: Sunday’s “How to” video #2 will be entitled How take a shower in Germany.

Today, I am hopeful~

We have arrived in Germany~

Okay so there was a slight moment of panic once boarding the international flight, but not for the reason you may think. I was trying to get my barrings and looking at all the snappy adjustments on the seat. I decided to “try it out” the seat went back and my body started sliding downward as a foot rest appeared, it was a strange type of carnival ride. The other two anxiety provoking situations – the flight attendants waited until the plane was in motion to close the overhead bins; I was overly concerned about them being closed, why, I have no idea, and the last was that my personal item bag with my medications and other goodies was in the overhead bin. Curtis remedied the later as soon as the crew allowed movement within the cabin. The good news is that by the end of the flight, I had mastered all the seat settings.

 The 7-hour layover in Vegas turned out to be just fine and went by quickly, before we knew it, we were boarding the plane bound for Germany. So, as it turns out, I actually have the ability to travel on a 10+ hour flight without my anxiety lifting me out of my chair. Admittedly, this ability to travel may be an isolated event due to being in premium business class with lay down seats, fluffy white pillows, snugly blankets, headphones, free movies, a window seat, hot towel prior to dining, my husband dutifully beside me, free beverages, and LOTS of delicious food.   What was grossly uncomfortable was the language barrier! It was quite funny; I am wearing my mask, so all anyone sees is my eyes – the blank stare of these green eyes when the German rolls off the tongues of the flight attendants. Quickly, they learn that I am English speaking; Curtis on the other hand learned how to say “I don’t speak German” my mouth is still trying to master those sounds!

The amount of food the Condor Airline fed the passengers was crazy! In hind sight, photos would have been even better than a photo of the menu – I will try to remedy this on my flight home. They kept bringing food, rolls, and drinks; when looking at the menu you get a plate with ALL the appetizers, one main course, cheese plate, and desert. Then there are the croissants, breads, and, rolls they continue to try to temp you with. When it came to a beverage, I asked for ginger ale, I was told they do not have that but they do have bitter lemon. In my mind, I was thinking this beverage would be close to ginger ale…it was not! After over-stuffing myself with food, I took some medication and went to sleep. I awoke to the smell of breakfast about six hours later – I chose not to indulge in breakfast, I was still stuffed from dinner. 

Before we knew it, we were landing in Frankfurt, Germany and heading to baggage claim, we were briefly stopped to show our passports, the not so friendly man asked me if I was Arabian, I was a bit puzzled and said no. He then snapped, well I need to see your face – his weird way of asking me to remove my face mask. Now we wait at baggage claim, I was getting concerned that our bags had been forgotten, but alas, they appeared, the last bags to drop on the roundabout. After collecting all our luggage, we connected with our driver who was holding a sign with my name on it.

We drove from the airport to our apartment, the driver noting that Germany is an “ugly city”! He spoke pretty good English, which was a welcome change of pace. He helped us get our bags into our apartment, that is on the top floor, provide rapid instructions on how to use the keys – which is interesting how locks work here, and then he was off. What a relief to find that our apartment was not the one with the large photographs of people on the walls – that would have been too odd. I began to unpack all the bags we traveled with and got us settled in. We were hungry and thought we would take to the streets to find something to eat. Here is the thing, we can’t read a damn thing – it’s all in German – even the prepared food displayed in windows left me unsettled! I was hungry, tired, and cold – it’s really cold over here. It is pretty uncomfortable to not know and understand the language! We ended up going to a place called something Pizza – a word we knew. We sat and watched this older gentleman hand make the most delicious fresh pizza; we asked for it to go. When we arrived back at our apartment, I decided I needed to take a hot soak. If you are wondering, yes, I was eating my pizza while I was soaking in the tub- it felt divine. When I came out, I had my towel wrapped around me. I was standing at the windows enjoying the amazing colors of the sunset when I hear a voice yell out “take it off”! LOL oh boy, the surprise that awaits this young man, under the towel, I am confident he is not prepared to see. I closed the blinds.

Curtis and I are now lying in bed, watching a spot of TV and talking about tomorrow as we plan a  visit to a small local fresh garden market we happened on earlier tonight. I too have my eye on some fresh flowers for the apartment. Still not sure what breakfast, lunch, or dinner will look like tomorrow, but we will have the energy to figure it out a bit more. Until next time.

Today, I am hopeful

Portland to Vegas

Morning came entirely too early; when the alarm went off at 3:25 am I was thinking how in the heck am I going to be able to "do this" whole travel thing. Typically, I do not get out of bend until around 9:00-9:30 am. Nevertheless, I grumbled a bit and got out of bed and into the shower. All the bags were packed and now loaded in the car - it was time to leave. I gave Jackson a squeeze and told him I loved him and we were off to the airport. Upon arrival, things went remarkably smooth. You see typically going through security is quite the event due to my opt out status; I choose not to be exposed to radiation from the body scanner machine so instead I get the pat down. Usually, I am forced to stand in a separate location, off to the side, from the other passengers, awaiting a female TSA patdown specialist. It always reminds me of back in elementary school when the nurse did head lice checks - if you were thought to have head lice, you were made to sit on a metal chair, away from but still in site of all your classmates. Thankfully I never had lice but I always felt the student became a spectacle. Well today, my ticket noted that I was TSA Prechecked! Why? How? Not sure the answers to these questions but what it did mean is that my shoes could stay on, computer remain in my bag and best of all - no need for a TSA patdown, straight through the metal detector like the good old days.

Now, I am a morning person by nature and can find my spunk even in the worst of times, Curtis is not a morning person, not at all. So after getting through security we headed to Starbucks so he could get his coffee and for me - hot water to make some tea. After Curtis consumed his caffeinated beverage, he was a bit more prepared to take on his day of travel. Even more so after he had a bit of time to close his eyes and rest on the flight from Portland to Vegas - just enough time to refuel. 

During the flight, I sat next to a nice woman who works for the Doc Martin company. She was traveling to Vegas for a convention and then on to New York. She mentioned recently moving from California to Portland. She was very kind - I never did get her name. During the flight she was helping me locate an airport lounge that we could rest at during our 7hr layover. After deplaning, she walked us through the airport to the club; she even offered to pay for a day pass for us. We then learned that our Condor flight plans made this particular club complimentary for Curtis and I. The woman was definitely my Portland to Vegas Angel - she was so kind. She gave me a loving squeeze and with a twinkle in her eye, she wished me well. After Curtis and I got settled I asked him to try and find her so I could get her name, but she disappeared into the sea of travelers. Here are a few photos taken from the airplane.

 


It is only 11:30 right now - so about 5 more hours to wait until our flight begins to board for Germany. So for now, I am just chill'n in the lounge and thinking about what I am going to eat for lunch! LOL I am already feeling a bit impatient more so because I am so ready to get settled in Germany and begin treatment.

Please keep sending those prayers and positive healing energy my direction. I have a really good feeling that my health is going to return and I will beat the odds! Terminal, 6-months to live...I think they have the wrong girl.

Today, I am hopeful~

Ready. Set. Go!

February 14th, Curtis and I celebrated 12 years together, in the same space we were married - Cape Perpetua in Yachats, Oregon. It was a lovely day, just perfect as usual. Each year, Curtis and I visit the rock shelter and renew our love and devotion for each other. There is no fancy ceremony, it is an unspoken renewal of our love and commitment to our marital relationship. This is a remarkable day that I look forward to annually.

This is the view from Cape Perpetua, it is the highest point along the Oregon Coast. No matter how many times we visit, the view is forever stunning and brings back special memories for us.



As I write this entry, I am filled with excitement for the next season of my life. After planning for many months to travel to Germany, it is all coming together quite nicely. My bedroom includes four different packing vessels - 1 large suitcase, 1 small suitcase, 1 carry-on suitcase, and 1"personal item bag". I am 95% packed and ready to embark on this international adventure as I seek full and complete healing of my body. I am more filled with hope then I can ever remember.  I feel at peace, surrounded by love, and know that I am prepared for this adventure. There is absolutely zero room for doubt, negativity, or nay sayers. I believe that I will find the healing that will bring my body into balance while removing all disease. I am determined to enjoy each moment of international travel, treatment, time with my husband, adventures in Germany, peaceful healing moments, and immersing myself in all things healing.

Many of you have been with me during this journey, so don't be surprised that I am bringing you along with me to Germany. I will be documenting my travels and experiences through photos, videos, and writings, I don't want anyone to miss a moment of excitement along the way. I will not be posting updates on FB - I will only be posting on my blog so this is where all the magic is happening!

A request: I am calling on all my universal healers, peaceful healing thoughts, and prayer warriors to come together asking for complete healing of my body - the collective conscious is for my body to heal and find balance. I ask that each moment you think of me, to send a prayer or healing thought into the universe. I am counting on all of you to lift me up with your healing prayers and thoughts.




Upon my return, there will be significant aftercare expenses; if you feel compelled to financially support my aftercare, you can donate three ways:

Donate Online: https://www.youcaring.com/Team.Christina

Preferred way to Donate by Mail:

Christina Garrett

PO Box 192

Philomath, Oregon 97370

Selco Credit Union Direct Deposit: "Team Christina"

Today, I am hopeful~

*****************************************

WE DID IT!

Video of the day: February 11, 2016 

 https://youtu.be/sY2Mx-aon3s

We totally did it! We raised $38,000 for cancer treatment and travel expenses to go to Germany. Many thought it was impossible, but I always believed it would happen. Many have offered “this is a miracle” and I tend to agree – the outpouring of support, love, and care cannot be measured as is has been full-on since my health declined last summer. Thank you to each one of you that has supported and continues to support my journey. I feel wrapped in love each day when I awake – life is good. 

So here I sit, exactly one week prior to my departure, anxiously waiting for the next step to regain my health. I have a good feeling about this opportunity to regain my health. I too am acutely aware that I was given 6-months to live December 2015. Trust and believe, I plan on offloading this diagnosis and coming back healthier than ever. I encourage everyone to continue to share my story and to continue donating. There will be substantial aftercare costs on the horizon.

I am filled with gratitude that so many have shown up for me during this difficult time – you really do find out who your real friends are when you are facing chronic or terminal illness. I have the most amazing group of friends and loving family members. I could not walk this journey without all of you by my side. Whenever I walk around, I feel as though I have my celebrity entourage with me always. I am blessed. I know that there are many praying and sending healing thoughts for my body to find balance and be healed; I want encourage healing prayers and thoughts to be sent to me daily. You are all in this journey together beside me, and I love you for this.

While in Germany, I plan to share the day’s events as often as possible through videos and writing. Thank you for believing in me and sharing a piece of your heart.

Today I am hopeful~

*****************************************************

Surrounded by love~

The What about Bob? Movie & Raffle is Saturday! The raffle is going to be amazing so bring some extra money to purchase tickets. If you don't have cash, we will have a debit/credit card machine available. I appreciate everyone that has purchased tickets and for those planning to attend, this means the world to me to have so many supporting me, in the same space.Tomorrow is going to be a forever memory for sure!

$5 = 6 Tickets

$10 = 15 Tickets

$20 = 30 Tickets

If you are not able to make the event, you can still donate to Team Christina either online or by mail. 

Online:  https://www.youcaring.com/Team.Christina 

By Mail: PO Box 192 Philomath, OR 97370

We are only about $8500 away from meeting our goal to pay for travel and treatment expenses. Many thanks to everyone that continues to support Team Christina and my treatment fundraising efforts. 

Today, I am hopeful~

30-40 tickets left

I am grateful to everyone who has purchased tickets to Saturday's What about Bob? Movie & Raffle fundraiser. I just learned that there are about 30-40 tickets that have not been sold yet. PLEASE help me sell all 300 tickets for Saturdays event. Even if you cannot attend, consider making a donation: https://www.youcaring.com/Team.Christina

This event is bigger than the $10 ticket you are purchasing. To me, this is a heart 2 heart event for me, the people showing-up on Saturday will be wrapping me in love & support. If you do not have tickets, please consider coming to the event and having an amazing time. Good people. Incredible Raffle- items listed on the right side of the blog. Hilarious movie. Surrounded by love. PM/text me and I will save you a ticket and meet you at the box office entrance with your tickets on Saturday. The movie will begin at 12:00 at the Star Cinema in Stayton Saturday the 23rd.

Looking ahead, we only have about $10,000 left to raise to reach our goal so I can travel to Germany & get last chance cancer treatment. Please continue to share your generosity. Curtis and I leave February 18 and will be there through March 20. We can't do this without the continued generosity and  support of everyone. We are so close. Don't give up on me. I want to live.

The best thing that happened this week, I had a remarkable meet-up with four amazing 6th graders who, along with their class at school, write me letters. Lot's of fun stories exchanged from pleas for parental approval to access Netflix, confirming flip-phones still exist, being chased by cows, to adding extra caramel to your frappuccino for ultimate deliciousness! Thank you girls for making some incredible memories with me.


                     Today, I am hopeful~

Pre-Germany Treatment Choices Made

I started the New Year off hiking with two of my good friends along the Oregon Coast on the cliffs of Cape Kiwanda. It was magical! The weather was beautiful, not a cloud in the sky although it was cold and windy. Being that this was the second annual traditional get together, we were properly prepared for the cold weather with hats, scarfs, gloves, and coats. Prior to New Year’s Day, I decided to write down all the things that no longer served me that I wanted to release. Equally, I wrote about my hopes for the future. At the urging of my friend Karri, we each wrote down a word to describe 2016. The word I chose was Gratitude; my friends chose Self-Care, and Acceptance. We placed our pieces of paper – with our word written on it, into the jar. We then talked for a while and when the time was right, I threw the corked glass bottle into the sea.

All the tests are in, the PET/CT scan and several weeks of bloodwork have been considered and a treatment choice has been made. In some regard, the decision was quite simple, I mean really, who wants to endure chemotherapy and the path of destruction it leaves? Although cancer cell activity continues to increase, another infusion of chemotherapy, prior to departing for Germany seems counterintuitive. The PET/CT scan was received with concurrent good and bad news; it indicated a reduction in the size of multiple tumors however; there has been an increase in lymphnode involvement that is described as “accelerated” activity. Moreover, the chemotherapy did not slow the growth within the lymphatic system; rather it appears to have fueled activity. The fact is that chemotherapy failed to halt cancer cell activity in the lymphatic system. I too am not convinced that my body could tolerate and recover from another chemical poisoning. So after weighing all my pre Germany Clinic treatment options, I have decided to forgo subjecting my body to further doses of chemotherapy. This decision was not made lightly, this is my body and my life that I am fighting for.

I am so ready to get to Germany for treatment and remain hopeful that this will be the missing piece to regaining my health. My passport arrived this weekend, so I am all set to be an international traveler! There has been much discussion in my home as to travel plans specifically, when Curtis would travel over to meet me in Germany. At the urging of the treatment clinic, my current health struggles, and the current diagnosis, Curtis and I have decided that we will travel together and he will beside me for the entirety of my treatment. I have decided to reframe this month long adventure as the honeymoon that Curtis & never had. So Germany it is – tickets have been purchased and travel arrangements made. I encourage everyone to continue donating to the treatment fund especially due to travel expenses being more costly than anticipated.

A delightful group of 6th grade students has been corresponding with me over the past several months. During the holiday break, I received an envelope filled with precious letters. I too received a special bear with a handmade tag on its ear. Look closely at the photo – this bear was from a sweet student. I really enjoy receiving letters from not only the 6^th grade class but from those that continue to exchange letters with me along this journey. I have developed some very special relationships through writing.

I want to encourage everyone that is reading this blog to consider making a monetary donation to my treatment fund. We are incredibly close to raising all the money needed for my treatment and travel expenses. Remember, I have one child left in the home, he does not graduate until 2017  - I am going to that graduation! Many thanks to all that are rooting and supporting my efforts to leave this cancer behind me and find health. I am truly blessed by all those that are in my corner, you are my biggest cheerleaders.

Donate Please

Donate Online: https://www.youcaring.com/Team.Christina

Preferred way to Donate by Mail:

Christina Garrett

PO Box 192

Philomath, Oregon 97370

Selco Credit Union Direct Deposit: "Team Christina"

Today, I am hopeful~

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What about Bob? Fundraiser & Raffle

Saturday January 23, 2016 12:00pm

Star Cinema in Stayton, Oregon will be hosting a showing of the movie “What about Bob?” (Rated PG) January 23, 2016 @ 12:00. Tickets are being PRE-SOLD for only $10 each. This is a FAMILY friendly movie! 100% of ticket sales go directly toward the Team Christina treatment fund. Tickets are available for purchase at the link below or by a local ticket seller!

To purchase directly from the cinema - http://www.starcinema.net/

There will be a raffle the day of the showing. In addition, raffle tickets will be presold and sold at the door as well. Raffle items are listed on Christina's Blog: christinasrealtalk.blogspot.com

All funds raised will go directly toward breast cancer treatment for Christina in Frankfurt, Germany. Christina begins treatment February 22, 2016. Please contact christinasrealtalk@gmail.com to purchase PRE SELL tickets and someone selling tickets in your area will connect with you. There are only 300 seats!

Please help support this event, I am so close to raising the money needed to get treatment in Germany. Other ways to support are:

Donate Please

Donate Online: https://www.youcaring.com/Team.Christina

Preferred way to Donate by Mail: 

Christina Garrett

PO Box 192

Philomath, Oregon 97370

Selco Credit Union Direct Deposit:

"Team Christina"

Today I am hopeful~

*********************************

Tests are scheduled~

The next two weeks will be pivotal towards unearthing the current status of the cancer lurking in my body. Tuesday I am getting a PET/CT scan, followed by a week long liver cleanse, and lastly, monitoring my bloodwork. After all the information is gathered and reviewed, I will decide if I will do an infusion of chemotherapy prior to leaving for Germany for treatment. What is concreted, is that I will be traveling to the Infusio Clinic in Frankfurt, Germany, to begin treatment February 22, 2016. I am relieved to know that I have been accepted into the clinic for treatment. After years of research, this clinic offers me the best chance at extending my life in healthy manner.

Personal Video Post 12/28/2015  https://youtu.be/c2vHUwjEz0c

Donate Please

Donate Online: https://www.youcaring.com/Team.Christina

Preferred way to Donate by Mail: 

Christina Garrett

PO Box 192

Philomath, Oregon 97370

Selco Credit Union Direct Deposit:

"Team Christina"

 Today, I am hopeful~

*********************************

6 months to live...I learned this today~

Team Christina
Please make a donation to my treatment fund

The other night, I lay in bed awake, many thoughts twirled about my mind.  At the urging of a recent acquaintance I tried something I had never done before, I began praying to Mary. My head resting upon a pillow; a prayer clothe tucked inside, the room darkened, the sound of multiple fans humming that have been thoughtfully placed around my bedroom to help calm my hot flashes. I gently closed my eyes; quickly tears began to flow as I prayed silently – I asked that health be restored to my body, for me to continue living; I need to at least finish my job as a mother. After all, a special birthmother entrusted me in 1999, to raise her child – I must finish my commitment, he is only 16 years old. I asked for more time. I tearfully plead my case and opened my soul as I prayed; I have no memory of where my prayer ended and my sleep began. I do not think this is where the story will end, but rather a beginning to something wonderful that is just around the corner.  After all, I have found the most usually, peace as I walk this journey through breast cancer. I have become increasingly willing to present as transparent, open to receiving, and continue reaping the benefits of this new perspective – this new sense of being.  

Recently I watched two documentaries that have allowed me to experience a deeper peace and acceptance of this journey I am on, regardless of the outcome. The first was entitled “How to die in Oregon,” although there were moments that were difficult to watch, there were more times that the terminally ill individuals in the series would reflect on their situation and it made sense to me. I knew that feeling, that experience they were sharing, which meant someone understood me. In the end, it provided my soul peace that this is the right choice for me and my family, when the time is right.

The second documentary was entitled “A woman like me”, it interweaves the real story of Alex Sichel, diagnosed with terminal cancer in 2011, with the fictional story of Anna Seashell, who manages to find the glass half full when faced with the same diagnosis. The documentary follows Alex as she uses narrative film to explore what is foremost on her mind while confronting a terminal disease: parenting, marriage, faith, life, and death. At one profound moment, this tearful woman breaks, she speaks of fearing that she will “die angry” as she wonders, “why me” then remarks “I feel like what I am supposed to think is why not me!” She is trying to figure out “who is to blame” and finally says, “I fucked it all up!”

What struck me is when she exposed her anger after learning her cancer had spread; she questioned – why me [referring to the cancer diagnosis] and was on a quest to find who was to blame for this cancer. Her conclusion was that it was herself to blame.  For me, I only recall small moments that may be defined as anger, but mostly sadness is what rises up. I count myself fortunate to have not been angry about this disease, equally I have not really asked why me – I typically say, why not me. I too believe I have found peace along this journey because I know this is only one lifetime, that there is something greater out there – beyond this lifetime for me. Deepening my spirituality over the past 4 ½ years has been the catalyst for peace, comfort, love, acceptance, and hope. Knowing there is something greater and bigger than me in the world provides there is a greater purpose for all things.

Today, as I was driving home from my oncology appointment in Lincoln City, along the coast toward Newport, I pulled over several times to watch the furry of the waves crashing into the rocks. I saw the waves furry as them speaking to me; their deep sorrow of the news I received, the waves dancing in revolt of the 6-months to live diagnosis. I then looked off to the south and saw a small break in the weather where just a small bit of blue sky rested only for a moment, then disappeared. There is always a bright spot, in every situation. I too reflected that all the women I have known that have lost their lives to cancer – were true warriors, there was a grace, positive resilience, and silent strength held by all these women.

What is next for me? Well, here it is, the Real Talk. There is concern that the cancer has spread to my liver, this is not a good thing. I will be having a PET/CT scan next week to see what is going on. I too will continue to monitor my bloodwork and hope that the cancer cells will stop dividing and multiplying like crazy! These cancer cells are overachievers and like to outperform – of course, they do! I am considering getting a “bump” of Abraxane – one chemo infusion in January, if the tumor markers continue to elevate. I am only considering this in order to [potentially] hold back the cancer long enough until I travel to Germany –although there is risk involved with that choice; my body may not be able to handle another poisoning session – I may not recover. The Abraxane may not work; it may only make me sick. Lots of things to think about and monitor over the next couple weeks. Oh hell, it’s all a crapshoot from here on out. Triple Negative Metastatic Breast Cancer= death, it is only a matter of time. There is nothing curative – only interventions that may be life extending; I am hopeful for an extension that includes quality of life without too much suffering.

I ask you to consider my prayer I mentioned earlier – I asked that health be restored to my body, for me to continue living; I need to at least finish my job as a mother. After all, a special birthmother entrusted me in 1999, to raise her child – I must finish my commitment, he is only 16 years old. I asked for more time. Please help me get to Germany for this last chance treatment to extend my life and continue praying for a miracle. Please donate to my treatment fund – there is not much time left.

PLEASE DONATE

Donate Online: https://www.youcaring.com/Team.Christina

Preferred way to Donate by Mail: 

Christina Garrett

PO Box 192

Philomath, Oregon 97370

Selco Credit Union Direct Deposit:

"Team Christina"

 Today, I am hopeful~

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38 days remain Team Christina

Team Christina Personal Video 12/18/2015  https://youtu.be/p7aXyIduP4E

Today I received a $5000 donation. This is a very touching donation made by an individual that heard about my health situation and desire to travel to Frankfurt, Germany for treatment to try and save my life. This individual prayed to God asking for a sign, if it is Gods will for a donation to be made toward my treatment. Without hesitation, God provided a very clear sign that this was His will through a series of interesting events. Without sharing all the details, later that evening I was standing in this person’s home returning a lost cell phone. This individual was stern noting this donation is from God. Thank you God for blessing our family with this generous donation and for this individual being the vessel. This my friends is our creators hand in motion!

My grandma that is my guardian angel and with me always~

Most know that I am not religious but rather spiritual. I do believe the creator; the universe provides blessings, comfort, and support. I have been on the receiving end of many blessings throughout my lifetime this is clear proof that there are angels walking amongst us. There are guardian angels by my side, and my creator loves and cares for me. I too know that the creator, universe, understands the most tender parts of my soul and my ideology – it is understood without judgment. Do I proclaim Christianity – no, I do not. I do not prescribe to religious labeling. Instead, I choose to live a life that represents my belief system of offering myself as a caretaker for the underserved, friend to many, advocating for the marginalized forgotten ones on this earth, and being positive and hopeful. I try to live each day authentically transparent; I am perfectly imperfect. Actions speak louder than words. Anyone can profess to be anything – but action shows a person’s true character.

On the topic of religion, a couple weeks ago, I reached out to a childhood friend asking for a donation toward my treatment fund; the response was unfortunate. This individual began quoting Bible verses, stating that if I did not profess Jesus as my Savior that I was going to go to hell – that when I die, it would be wise of me to fall upon my face and ask Jesus for forgiveness in the hopes I would not be sent to hell. I respect differing belief systems but disagreed with this individual’s view of his God being so harsh and punishing. Instead of a donation, this person stated they were offering a greater gift, that of eternal life. I expressed that walking a “Christ” like life is more meaningful than professing to be Christian. For example, I can say I am a farmer, but that does not make me a farmer. If I am working on a farm and living that life – then I am a farmer. Live your professed truth – authentically. Although I know this individual is well intended and deeply rooting in a particular belief system, I believe it is increasingly meaningful to walk in alignment with your spoken truth setting aside judgement. Actions matching words. Oh and by the way, I let this individual know that “I am in good standing” with my creator – my heart is known fully.

Coming back around to the generous donation - I thank God for speaking into the life of the individual that recently learned of my health struggles and that God was able to use this individual as His vessel to deliver a message of love and hope. I too was deeply touched by the words offered by this individual – it was offered that I pray to Mary, as she was a human that walked this earth and is a mother that I may connect with her because she understands the heart of a mother. This brought tears to my eyes and touched my heart. I believe that blessings will continue to fall upon me that will make treatment possible and healing will come to my body. Thank you to everyone that continues to support and love me – event though, even when. For this, I am eternally sitting in gratitude.

Where I find the most peace, along the Oregon Coast~

Please continue to donate to my treatment fund, I trust everything will come together in perfect timing. There remains an outstanding need; funds to travel to Frankfurt, Germany – due to my declining health, it would be best to travel with accommodations enabling me to lay down during the flight and sleep – this too will help temper my anxiety with flying. Additionally, the clinic recommends you have a travel companion. Curtis and I were going to get creative with travel by having my brother spend a week with me and then maybe a friend traveling over for a week, and finally Curtis joining me in the later part of treatment and to accompany me home.

I see my oncologist next week and will be discussing my current health situation and learning if he thinks I will be able to travel 60 days from now. I have outlived this disease and beat the odds thus far – but I know that with this terminal diagnosis, when things go left, it will move quickly. Next week, I too will find out if my oncologist is in a position to make the 6 months left to live call in writing. This will enable me to begin the process of death with dignity – if it comes to that. Please keep praying for my body to return to health and that I will have access to the treatments that will support my body to heal.

I have been writing every day, but I am going to put things on pause for a few days so that I can get emotionally and physically grounded. Thank you for your continued support, endless positive healing thoughts, and prayers. 

PLEASE DONATE

Donate Online: https://www.youcaring.com/Team.Christina

Preferred way to Donate by Mail: 

Christina Garrett

PO Box 192

Philomath, Oregon 97370

Selco Credit Union Direct Deposit:

"Team Christina"

Today, I am hopeful~ 


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39 days left~ Team Christina

Today I had lunch with two of my favorite people Vicki Bern, Rachael Lehti and her adorable baby Zeekie! We enjoyed a delightful lunch at Gustovs in Keizer - many thanks to Vicki for treating us to a tasty lunch! Karri Manning was feeling a bit under the weather so she missed our girls luncheon. The four of us decided before we graduated from grad school that we would remain in touch with each other so we meet for lunch at least one time monthly. GFU Girl Power Forever~

Please watch my Personal Video of the day 12/17/2015
 https://youtu.be/ZOa_rPgvKtU

Please continue to spread the word and donate using one of the avenues listed below, to support my treatment in Frankfurt, Germany. you recall, yesterday I received the results of my bloodwork that indicated the cancer is becoming increasingly active again. Although this was to happen, it kind of took my breath away when reading the blood tumor maker results. I need to remain healthy enough to travel to Germany for treatment in February. 

Do you have airline miles you would like to donate? 

If yes, please email me at christinasrealtalk@gmail.com 

I am currently exploring flight options - keeping in mind that due to my declining health and flight anxiety, I need to travel in a seat that can lay flat so that I can sleep during the flight. The dates I need to travel February 18th or 19th returning March 19 or 20th. I'm departing from PDX traveling to Frankfurt, Germany airport.

Thank you to everyone that is helping make it possible for me to get this last chance treatment! With a terminal diagnosis, this is my last hope. I still need to share an very cool series of events that occurred Wednesday evening, when the time is right I will share - this definitely was a God moment, or as my friend Karri Manning says "Gods provisions". I love when Ask - Believe - Receive reveals itself. 

Donate Online

https://www.youcaring.com/Team.Christina

Preferred way to Donate by Mail: 

Christina Garrett

PO Box 192

Philomath, Oregon 97370

Selco Credit Union Direct Deposit:
"Team Christina"

Today, I am hopeful~