Who we are.

Join the fight against pancreatic cancer! The 2015 Pancreatic Cancer Research Walk is Sunday, November 1st at Sloan's Lake Park, Denver, CO.

All the money raised goes directly to pancreatic cancer research thanks to the Lustgarten Foundation!

Saturday, December 31, 2011

New Year's Eve Fireworks Downtown Denver

December 31, 2011

The sky will once again sparkle over the 16th Street Mall this New Year’s Eve with the New Year’s Eve Fireworks Downtown, presented by the Downtown Denver Partnership. Co-sponsors of the display are VISIT DENVER and the Downtown Denver Business Improvement District. As part of the Partnership’s Winter in the City program, the two spectacular fireworks shows will occur at 9 p.m. and Midnight, taking place simultaneously at two undisclosed sites along the 16th Street Mall. It is recommended that viewers stand along the 16th Street Mall for optimal viewing.             

Friday, December 30, 2011

Gene identified that increases pancreatic cancer risk


Thursday 29th December 2011

Gene identified that increases pancreatic cancer risk

Doctors and those in biomedical science jobs have been looking for new ways of identifying the spread of cancer through the body and now researchers believe they have found a gene that increases the risk of pancreatic cancer.

It is thought that mutations in the ATM gene can raise the chance of the deadly disease being passed on through a family. Having a better knowledge of how the gene works will give doctors a better chance of spotting it at the screening stage. Many doctors use endoscopy as a screening tool for pancreatic cancer, but researchers are still evaluating this technique in clinical trials.

Pancreatic cancer is one of the deadliest strains of the disease, with less than five per cent of people diagnosed with the condition surviving. While many strains of cancer now have an improved survival rate, the pancreatic branch of the disease has remained the same and, according the NHS, figures give the patient two to three months to live once diagnosed. Approximately ten per cent of patients come from families with multiple cases of pancreatic cancer.

The team at the Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Centre in Philadelphia used next-generation sequencing, including whole genome and whole exome analyses, and identified ATM gene mutations in two samples which had been passed through the family.

When the initial findings were examined in a large series for patients, ATM mutations were present in four of 166 subjects with pancreatic cancer but were absent in 190 of the close family.

Alison Klein, Ph.D., lead author and associate professor of oncology at the centre, said: "There was significant reason to believe this clustering was due to genetics, but we had not, to this point, been able to find the causative genes that explained the cluster of pancreatic cancer for a majority of these families."

Written by Angela NewburyADNFCR-1780-ID-801251686-ADNFCR
http://www.mediplacements.com/article-801251686-gene_identified_that_increases.html

New Years Traditions

Auld Lang Syne

The most commonly sung song for English-speakers on New Year's eve, "Auld Lang Syne" is an old Scottish song that was first published by the poet Robert Burns in the 1796 edition of the book, Scots Musical Museum. Burns transcribed it (and made some refinements to the lyrics) after he heard it sung by an old man from the Ayrshire area of Scotland, Burns's homeland.

It is often remarked that "Auld Lang Syne" is one of the most popular songs that nobody knows the lyrics to. "Auld Lang Syne" literally translates as "old long since" and means "times gone by." The song asks whether old friends and times will be forgotten and promises to remember people of the past with fondness, "For auld lang syne, we'll tak a cup o' kindness yet."

The lesser known verses continue this theme, lamenting how friends who once used to "run about the braes,/ And pou'd the gowans fine" (run about the hills and pulled up the daisies) and "paidl'd in the burn/Frae morning sun till dine" (paddled in the stream from morning to dusk) have become divided by time and distance—"seas between us braid hae roar'd" (broad seas have roared between us). Yet there is always time for old friends to get together—if not in person then in memory—and "tak a right guid-willie waught" (a good-will drink).

But it was bandleader Guy Lombardo, and not Robert Burns, who popularized the song and turned it into a New Year's tradition. Lombardo first heard "Auld Lang Syne" in his hometown of London, Ontario, where it was sung by Scottish immigrants. When he and his brothers formed the famous dance band, Guy Lombardo and His Royal Canadians, the song became one of their standards. Lombardo played the song at midnight at a New Year's eve party at the Roosevelt Hotel in New York City in 1929, and a tradition was born. After that, Lombardo's version of the song was played every New Year's eve from the 1930s until 1976 at the Waldorf Astoria. In the first years it was broadcast on radio, and then on television. The song became such a New Year's tradition that "Life magazine wrote that if Lombardo failed to play 'Auld Lang Syne,' the American public would not believe that the new year had really arrived."

Hogmanay (Scotland)

The birthplace of "Auld Lang Syne" is also the home of Hogmanay (hog-mah-NAY), the rousing Scottish New Year's celebration (the origins of the name are obscure). One of the traditions is "first-footing." Shortly after midnight on New Year's eve, neighbors pay visits to each other and impart New Year's wishes.

Traditionally, First foots used to bring along a gift of coal for the fire, or shortbread. It is considered especially lucky if a tall, dark, and handsome man is the first to enter your house after the new year is rung in. The Edinburgh Hogmanay celebration is the largest in the country, and consists of an all-night street party (visit their Hagmanay website here).

Oshogatsu (Japan)

The new year is the most important holiday in Japan, and is a symbol of renewal. In December, various Bonenkai or "forget-the-year parties" are held to bid farewell to the problems and concerns of the past year and prepare for a new beginning. Misunderstandings and grudges are forgiven and houses are scrubbed. At midnight on Dec. 31, Buddhist temples strike their gongs 108 times, in a effort to expel 108 types of human weakness. New Year's day itself is a day of joy and no work is to be done. Children receive otoshidamas, small gifts with money inside. Sending New Year's cards is a popular tradition—if postmarked by a certain date, the Japanese post office guarantees delivery of all New Year's cards on Jan. 1.

Spain

The Spanish ritual on New Year's eve is to eat twelve grapes at midnight. The tradition is meant to secure twelve happy months in the coming year.

The Netherlands

The Dutch burn bonfires of Christmas trees on the street and launch fireworks. The fires are meant to purge the old and welcome the new.

Greece

In Greece, New Year's day is also the Festival of St. Basil, one of the founders of the Greek Orthodox Church. One of the traditional foods served is Vassilopitta, or St Basil's cake. A silver or gold coin is baked inside the cake. Whoever finds the coin in their piece of cake will be especially lucky during the coming year.

United States

Probably the most famous tradition in the United States is the dropping of the New Year ball in Times Square, New York City, at 11:59 P.M. Thousands gather to watch the ball make its one-minute descent, arriving exactly at midnight. The tradition first began in 1907. The original ball was made of iron and wood; the current ball is made of Waterford Crystal, weighs 1,070 pounds, and is six feet in diameter.

A traditional southern New Year's dish is Hoppin' John—black eyed peas and ham hocks. An old saying goes, "Eat peas on New Year's day to have plenty of everything the rest of the year."

Another American tradition is the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California. The Tournament of Roses parade that precedes the football game on New Year's day is made up of elaborate and inventive floats. The first parade was held in 1886.

Widely Observed New Year Symbols and Traditions

Resolutions: It is believed that the Babylonians were the first to make New Year's resolutions, and people all over the world have been breaking them ever since. The early Christians believed the first day of the new year should be spent reflecting on past mistakes and resolving to improve oneself in the new year.

Fireworks: Noisemaking and fireworks on New Year's eve is believed to have originated in ancient times, when noise and fire were thought to dispel evil spirits and bring good luck. The Chinese are credited with inventing fireworks and use them to spectacular effect in their New Year's celebrations.
For more New Year's features see the History of New Year and Saying “Happy New Year!” Around the World.

Thursday, December 29, 2011




 Thank You!

Your participation in The Lustgarten Foundation's 2011 Pancreatic Cancer Research Walk Series helped us raise a grand total of $3,337,774 from the 2011 walks/runs. Since Pancreatic Cancer Research Walks were established in 2001, these events have raised $16,108,514!

On hundred percent of the funds raised will go directly to Pancreatic Cancer research. It is only through research that we will find a cure. The Lustgarten Foundation has provided $38 million in research funding, which has resulted in identifying genes that cause this cancer, developed technologies to distinguish between harmless cysts and these that may become malignant, and continues to support new therapies that have shown a significant improvement in the average survival time.

This progress would not be possible without your support and participation. We thank you again and look forward to seeing you in 2012!

We wish you and your loved ones a healthy and happy New Year.


100% of donations will go directly to pancreatic cancer research. Cablevision Systems Corporation underwrites all of The Lustgarten Foundation's administrative expenses to ensure that 100% of every donation goes directly to pancreatic cancer research.

Is there a relationship between Gluten & Cancer?

A striking association is that celiac disease predisposes patients to the eventual development of lymphoma and other cancers. If this relationship is re-stated as "cereal grains cause cancer," the implication is more easily understood. There is evidence that strict adherence to a gluten-free diet long term will reduce the incidence of lymphoma.
High-grade T-cell lymphomas of the small intestine are the most common neoplasms. The intestinal mucosa distant from the tumor contains T cells often of the same clone as the high-grade T-cell lymphoma. It appears that the T-cell lymphoma evolves from reactive intraepithelial lymphocytes through a low-grade lymphocytic neoplasm to a high-grade tumor.  Ulcers may appear in the jejunum and are probably part of the same disease process, occurring when the neoplastic T-cells are low grade and recognition of tumor cells in biopsies of the ulcers may be impossible. Patients with enteropathy-associated T-cell lymphoma have genetic markers - the HLA DQA1*0501, DQB1*0201 phenotype, although additional HLA-DR/DQ alleles may represent risk factors for lymphoma development. (see abstract)
Malignancy and survival in dermatitis herpetiformis: a comparison with coeliac disease.
Author Collin P; Pukkala E; Reunala T
Address Medical School, University of Tampere, Finland.
Source Gut, 1996 Apr, 38:4, 528-30
BACKGROUND--Dermatitis herpetiformis is a lifelong, gluten sensitive skin disease. Patients with dermatitis herpetiformis, similar to patients with coeliac disease not adhering to a gluten free diet, seem to have increased risk for lymphoma. AIMS--This study looked at the occurrence of malignancy and survival of patients with dermatitis herpetiformis and compared the results with those seen in patients with coeliac disease or in the general population. PATIENTS--A total of 305 adult patients with dermatitis herpetiformis diagnosed at the University Hospital of Tampere in 1970-1992 were studied. Most patients started a gluten free diet and at the end of the study 93% of the patients were adhering to the diet. A control group comprised 383 adult patients with coeliac disease, 81% of them adhered to a gluten free diet, 6% had a normal diet, and in 13% the diet history remained unknown. METHODS--The occurrence of malignant diseases and survival of the patients were assessed up to the end of 1993. Standardised incidence ratios (SIR) with 95% confidence intervals were used for the malignant diseases. The survival of the patients was compared with that of the general population. RESULTS--Thirteen (4.3%) patients with dermatitis herpetiformis developed 14 malignant disorders during the follow up (SIR 1.25; 95% confidence intervals 0.68 to 2.09). A non-Hodgkin's lymphoma occurred in four patients with dermatitis herpetiformis, significantly more than expected (SIR 10.3; 2.8-26.3). Thirteen (4.3%) patients with dermatitis herpetiformis died during the follow up but there was no increased general mortality. In coeliac disease, 13 (3.4%) patients developed malignancy (SIR 1.16; 0.62 to 1.97), 31 (8.1%) patients died but the survival rate did not differ from that in the general population. CONCLUSIONS--The incidence of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma was significantly increased in patients with dermatitis herpetiformis. The results also confirm that the patients with dermatitis herpetiformis treated mainly with a gluten free diet have no increased general mortality.

Protective effect of gluten-free diet against development of lymphoma in dermatitis herpetiformis.

Author Lewis HM; Renaula TL; Garioch JJ; Leonard JN; Fry JS; Collin P; Evans D; Fry L
Source Br J Dermatol, 1996 Sep, 135:3, 363-7
Abstract A retrospective study of 487 patients with dermatitis herpetiformis showed that lymphoma developed in eight patients, the expected incidence being 0.21 (standardized registration ratio 3810). All lymphomas occurred in patients whose dermatitis herpetiformis had been controlled without a gluten-free diet (GFD) or in those who had been treated with a GFD for less than 5 years. The results are suggestive of a protective role for a GFD against lymphoma in dermatitis herpetiformis and give further support for advising patients to adhere to a strict GFD for life.

Primary T cell CD30-positive anaplastic large-cell lymphoma associated with adult-onset celiac disease and presenting with skin lesions.

Author Mantovani G; Esu S; Astara G; Lampis B; MacciÄo A; Usai P; Santa Cruz G; Mura E; Ferreli A
Source Acta Haematol, 1995, 94:1, 48-51
We report the case of a 52-year-old woman with primary CD30+ anaplastic large-cell lymphoma of T cell phenotype with skin involvement, stage IVB, fulfilling almost all the clinical, histopathologic and immunophenotypic criteria for this disease, associated with adult-onset celiac disease. The diagnoses of malignancy and celiac disease were made during the same clinical episode. The clinical course of the patient has been extremely favorable and she is in complete remission, 15 months after finishing consolidation therapy.

Study of the immunohistochemistry and T cell clonality of enteropathy-associated T cell lymphoma.

Author Murray A; Cuevas EC; Jones DB; Wright DH
Source Am J Pathol, 1995 Feb, 146:2, 509-19
Specimens from 23 patients with enteropathy-associated T cell lymphoma were studied by immunohistochemistry after antigen retrieval. Specimens from 14 of these patients were investigated for the presence of clonal T cell gene rearrangements in both the tumor and the adjacent enteropathic intestine by the polymerase chain reaction. Primers for T cell receptor beta and gamma genes were used in a combination that permits the identification of approximately 90% of T cell receptor rearrangements. Clonal rearrangements of the T cell receptor were found in 13 of the 14 tumors studied. Specimens of enteropathic bowel resected with the tumor, but showing no morphological or immunohistochemical evidence of tumor involvement, showed clonal T cell receptor gene rearrangements in 11 cases. In 10 of these, the amplified DNA was of the same molecular weight in the enteropathic bowel as in the corresponding tumor. In 2 cases, sequencing the polymerase chain reaction product showed identical T cell receptor gene rearrangements in the tumor and in the adjacent intestine. Uniform staining for p53 was seen in 22 of the 23 tumors. In 9 of 19 cases studied, collections of small lymphocytes in the enteropathic bowel expressed p53. In all but one of these specimens, a clonal rearrangement of the T cell receptor genes was identified. We interpret these findings as support for the concept that enteropathy-associated T cell lymphoma arises on a background of gluten-sensitive enteropathy with evolution of neoplastic T cell clones from the reactive T cell population present in the enteropathic bowel.

Enteropathy-associated T-cell lymphoma in the West of Ireland: low-frequency of Epstein-Barr virus in these tumors.

Author Walsh SV; Egan LJ; Connolly CE; Stevens FM; Egan EL; McCarthy CF
Source Mod Pathol, 1995 Sep, 8:7, 753-7
Abstract The Epstein-Barr virus has been implicated in the etiology of endemic Burkitt's lymphoma, post-transplant lymphoma, large-cell anaplastic CD30 (Ki-1)-positive lymphoma, and in many T-cell lymphomas. A recent report has found Epstein-Barr virus genome in association with 4 of 11 cases (36%) of enteropathy-associated T-cell lymphoma. In a retrospective study, we have characterized 22 consecutive cases of enteropathy-associated T-cell lymphoma from the West of Ireland where celiac disease is endemic. All cases were immunophenotyped with T- and B-cell markers

Premalignant conditions of the small intestine.

Author Ryan JC  Source Semin Gastrointest Dis, 1996 Apr, 7:2, 88-93
Abstract Cancer of the small intestine is rare compared with other sites in the gastrointestinal tract. Of the four major primary small-bowel tumors (adenocarcinomas, lymphomas, carcinoid, and leiomyosarcomas), adenocarcinomas and lymphomas are associated with diseases that seem to increase the risk of developing these malignancies. In the case of immunoproliferative small intestinal disease and celiac disease, both of which are thought to predispose patients to the development of primary lymphoma, treatment of the predisposing conditions seems to decrease the risk of developing subsequent malignancy. Recognition of the increased risk associated with other conditions, such as immunodeficiency syndromes, nodular lymphoid hyperplasia, Crohn's disease, the gastrointestinal polyposis syndromes, hereditary nonpolyposis colon cancer, neurofibromatosis, long-standing ileostomy, and urinary diversion procedures, may lead to early diagnosis and improved survival.

The gut as a lymphoepithelial organ: the role of intestinal epithelial cells in mucosal immunity.

Author Tlaskalova-Hogenova H; Farre-Castany MA; Stepankova R; Kozakova H; Tuckova L; Funda DP; Barot R; Cukrowska B; Sinkora J; Mandel; L; et al Source Folia Microbiol (Praha), 1995, 40:4, 385-91
 Abstract Mucosal surfaces covered by a layer of epithelial cells represent the largest and most critical interface between the organism and its environment. The barrier function of mucosal surfaces is performed by the epithelial layer and immune cells present in the mucosal compartment. As recently found, epithelial cells, apart from their participation in absorptive, digestive and secretory processes perform more than a passive barrier function and are directly involved in immune processes. Besides the well known role of epithelial cells in the transfer of polymeric immunoglobulins produced by lamina propria B lymphocytes to the luminal content of mucosals (secretory Igs), these cells were found to perform various other immunological functions, to interact with other cells of the immune system and to induce an efficient inflammatory response to microbial invasion: enzymic processing of dietary antigens, expression of class I and II MHC antigens, presentation of antigens to lymphocytes, expression of adhesive molecules mediating interaction with intraepithelial lymphocytes and components of extracellular matrix, production of cytokines and probable participation in extrathymic T cell development of intraepithelial lymphocytes. All these functions were suggested to influence substantially the mucosal immune system and its response. Under immunopathological conditions, e.g. during infections and inflammatory bowel and celiac diseases, both epithelial cells and intraepithelial lymphocytes participate substantially in inflammatory reactions. Moreover, enterocytes could become a target of mucosal immune factors. Mucosal immunosurveillance function is of crucial importance in various pathological conditions but especially in the case of the most frequent malignity occurring in the intestinal compartment, i.e. colorectal carcinoma. Proper understanding of the differentiation processes and functions of epithelial cells in interaction with other components of the mucosal immune system is therefore highly desirable.

Gluten = Proteins From Cereal Grains

Gluten Free: The exclusion of wheat, rye, barley are the initial steps when gluten allergy is suspected.  Gluten elimination should be part of a more comprehensive diet revision plan, preferably in the form outlined in the Alpha Nutrition Program. The Program  is gluten-free and is recommended as the best diet revision strategy for anyone with diagnosed celiac disease, or any person with symptoms suggestive of gluten allergy.  Learn more about the Alpha Nutrition Program  Gluten free recipes are found in the book, Alpha Nutrition Cooking and Recipes.

Wednesday, December 28, 2011

Famous and Pancreatic Cancer: Pete Burness. Director, Animator and Oscar Winner.

Pete Burness was well known for directing Mister Magoo as well as contributing creatively to Rocky & Bullwinkle, Tom & Jerry, Capt Crunch, George of Jungle ... and many other 60's animated classics.  


Like so many, his life came to a close too soon.  He was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in mid-60s and passed away a mere 6 weeks later.


Here's one of his Oscar winners ...


After Pancreatic Cancer, 'Southern Style' Gets A Healthy Makeover

By Tomise Martin and Dawn Dorsey, Staff Writers

Growing up in Louisiana, Roger Giles ate plenty of farm-fresh vegetables. But, true to Southern cooking traditions, they often were fried in bacon grease and served with high-fat foods like buttered cornbread and biscuits.

Roger Giles_0909_1.jpg"When I graduated from high school, I was athletic and weighed 195 pounds," Giles says. "But, as I entered my early adult years, I started having 'yo-yo' weight gain. By my mid-50s, my weight had ballooned to the 270-plus range."

Pain was the first sign
Last year, Giles had two attacks of acute pancreatitis, a sudden inflammation of the pancreas that frequently is painful. When he felt the symptoms returning in October, he went back to the doctor, hoping for some answers.

"We did a lot of tests, but none of them were conclusive," he says. "They couldn't find the problem, and I really wanted to know what was going on. We suspected cancer, so I went to
M. D. Anderson." Giles was admitted to M. D. Anderson on Dec. 15, and two weeks later he was diagnosed with adenocarcinoma, the most common form of pancreatic cancer.

Diagnosis was not a shock
"To be quite honest, I wasn't the least bit surprised," he says. "I recognized I had some kind of serious problem internally; I just didn't know what it was."

To treat the cancer, Giles had eight weekly treatments of chemotherapy, followed by six weeks of daily radiation treatment.

"From the beginning, my sole goal has been to attack this disease with the most aggressive treatment available," he says.

Weight, cancer are linked
In addition, Giles participated in a study at M. D. Anderson that showed a relationship between high body mass index (BMI) and pancreatic cancer.

According to the American Cancer Society, pancreatic cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer death in the United States. More than 42,400 people will be diagnosed with this disease, and more than 35,400 will die from it this year.

Roger Giles_0909.jpgHe's found the right weight
When the pancreatitis hit last fall, Giles weighed 272 pounds. Within a week, he started losing weight at an alarming rate.

"I was losing a pound a day; within four weeks I lost more than 20 pounds," he says. "I couldn't eat solid foods because the pain was excruciating, and I put myself on Ensure to maintain nutrition."

Now, after losing even more weight during treatment, Giles' weight has leveled off at 185 pounds, and he says he feels comfortable there.

"My diet has changed drastically," he says. "I've lost 90 pounds. I'm at a healthy weight, and I understand the importance of staying fit."

It's time to change
Giles has always enjoyed gardening, and now it serves as more than just a favorite pastime that occupies his thoughts during and between treatments. It contributes to his diet and is a reminder to be healthy.

These days, he sticks to a low-fat diet built on fresh vegetables from his garden and stays active. He's also on somewhat of a one-man mission to convince people of the importance of healthful eating.

"Statistics say more than half the people in our country are overweight," he says. "It's time we awakened to that fact. As a nation, we all need to change the way we eat, especially fast food, and high-fat and high-calorie diets. It's an ongoing struggle."

Related article:
Q&A: Pancreatic Cancer and Obesity

M. D. Anderson resources
Pancreatic Cancer

Gastrointestinal Cancer Center

Lisa Niemi: Healing From the Loss of Patrick Swayze


The dancer, writer, and horse woman channels her grief into advocating for pancreatic cancer research.

By Linda Formichelli
WebMD the Magazine - Feature
Reviewed by Louise Chang, MD

Since 2009, when actor Patrick Swayze died from pancreatic cancer, his widow, Lisa Niemi, a dancer, writer, and yoga practitioner, has focused not only on her own healing process, but on leading efforts to fight the disease in this country.  WebMD the Magazine sat down with Niemi and asked her about her grieving, her advocacy work, and her thoughts on marriage and self-care.

A little more than a year ago, your husband, Patrick Swayze, passed away from pancreatic cancer. How are you doing these days? As you look back on this very tough time, do any life lessons stand out?

For quite some time, I couldn't see a damn lesson in sight. It was just tough. What lessons did appear to me came out very, very subtly. Mostly it was about living in the moment. Every day that he was alive and I was alive was a victory, and it didn't matter what was going to happen in the future or what happened in the past.

You've taken a leadership role in the battle against cancer. What are you doing right now?

We've started the Patrick Swayze Pancreas Research Fund at Stanford University. Also, I'm going to be a spokesperson for the Pancreatic Action Network. Of the five big cancers, pancreatic cancer is woefully underfunded.

You and Patrick wrote a memoir, The Time of My Life, which came out two weeks before he died. What has the response been from readers and fans?

My brother had a neighbor who read the book, and he turned to my brother and said, "Wow, Patrick was really a big star." My brother was like, "Hello!" But the response to the book has been just fantastic, I imagine because it had a lot of details that people are not really aware of, like how hard that Patrick worked to get where he was.

Have any of your health habits changed in the last year?

I was always pretty good about it to begin with. I have regular mammograms. In the last few years, I started getting an annual physical. But I have yet to get around to the colonoscopy. Now that you mention it, maybe it's time to do that.

You and Patrick were married for more than three decades. Do you have any advice for a healthy marriage?

I've had friends who appear to be very unhappy in their relationship. But generally, the problem isn't the other person. It's a problem in yourself, and you need to address your own unhappiness or frustration or impatience. A lot of people focus on the 25% that's wrong in their relationship instead of celebrating the 75% that's right.

Who influenced you the most when it comes to your health?

My mom was a nurse. She's 85 now and retired, but she's one of those people who will say, "You need to go check that out." Of course, she's qualified and she's got a lot of common sense.

Read the rest of the article at:
http://www.webmd.com/cancer/pancreatic-cancer/features/lisa-niemi-healing-loss-patrick-swayze

Monday, December 26, 2011

Denver Holidays: Blossoms of Light with Photos

Blossoms of Light -- A Denver Tradition


December 2, 2011 - January 1, 2012
Embrace the holiday season at Blossoms of Light. Over one million colorful lights draped in elegant designs highlight the Gardens winter beauty. Romantic and popular kissing spots will return, as well as the always anticipated HoloSpex glasses. Warm drinks and tasty treats will also be available. Seasonal entertainment will be available on select evenings. Free for children 2 and under. No pets please. Blossoms of Light is a separately ticketed event and not included with daytime admission.

From the 2011 Blossoms of Light; photo by M. Burness

From the 2011 Blossoms of Light; photo by M. Burness

From the 2011 Blossoms of Light; photo by M. Burness

From the 2011 Blossoms of Light; photo by M. Burness

From the 2011 Blossoms of Light; photo by M. Burness

From the 2011 Blossoms of Light; photo by M. Burness


Study points to foods to combat pancreatic cancer

Post by John Chappels on 20 December 2011 in Health & Wellbeing


Study points to foods to combat pancreatic cancer A mushroom omelette could be an important part of a diet designed to tackle pancreatic cancer.

New research has found that a diet which includes high levels of trace elements nickel and selenium might help combat the disease.

Nickel is thought to help the body produce red blood cells, and is found in lentils, mushrooms, nuts and oats, while selenium is known to boost the body's immune system. Rich sources of this include eggs, fish, meat and Brazil nuts.

The study, carried out on 118 patients suffering from pancreatic cancer, involved studying levels of 12 trace elements found in their bodies. It then compared these with the amounts found in 399 hospital patients who did not have cancer.

Significant variations in the levels of the trace elements were found among the cancer patients' samples.
In future, researchers hope to be able to study whether adding selenium to a diet helps cut the risk of developing pancreatic cancer – a disease which is diagnosed in more than 7,600 British people every year, 80 per cent of whom are aged over 60.

More news about Health & Wellbeing

Related articles

Sunday, December 25, 2011

2009 Denver Christmas Lights


One Filmmaker's story of Denver's Christmas Lights.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TPh6Hti88ns

Merry Christmas!



Happy Holidays from all the Lustgarten volunteers in Denver.  We appreciate that for some this may be a more difficult holiday than for others.  Pancreatic cancer and it's impact can we far reaching this time of year.  But no matter how pancreatic cancer has touched your life, we wish you happiness and joy this season, know that you are not alone in this fight.  We will find a cure with your help!


Whether you are celebrating old traditions or starting new ones, her are some ideas of things to do in Denver this holiday season.


Experience the warm glow of the holidays as Colorado spruces up for the holidays at annual Christmas parades and light spectaculars in downtown Denver, with more spectacular festive happenings throughout the state .... 




Denver Parade of Lights - A festive parade and marching bands marks the season with information on this year's holiday blowout in downtown Denver with related info on Mile High Holidays in Skyline Park and New Year's Eve fireworks.


Best Christmas Light Displays in Denver, Colorado - A native takes you through the top Christmas attractions including the Parade of Lights in downtown, the Zoo lights display and the Blossom of Light at the Botanic Garden.


Greeley Colorado Christmas Attractions - Information on holiday family fun at the annual Festival of Trees and the Greeley Lights the Nights spectacular in Lincoln Park.


Pueblo Zoo Electricritters - The holiday light show for kids of all ages with dates, times and more information as the holidays draw near.


Colorado Christmas - See how the Pickett family light show grew over the years to the Christmas extravaganza it is today, with a behind-the-scenes look at how it gets done and the final result at their mega-watt home in Colorado Springs. Includes photo gallery, videos.


Christmas Tree Farms in Colorado - A complete list of tree farms offering pre-cut and cut-your-own trees, along with dates and opening hours plus more on seasonal sleigh rides and hay rides.

Patients: Gather information before participating in a clinical drug trial


Tuesday, Dec. 20, 2011

Trial at the John B. Amos Cancer Center tests new pancreatic cancer treatment

- kmccarthy@ledger-enquirer.comDr. Andrew Pippas, clinical oncology research director at John B. Amos Cancer Center is principle investigator for the state of Georgia for a current clinical drug trial regarding the treatment of pancreatic cancer.

This trial is for previously untreated stage-4 pancreatic cancer patients. It will test whether adding a new drug, bavituximab, to the standard treatment of the disease improves quality and length of life.

Pippas said it’s his job, along with all other cancer doctors, to provide their patients with all the information that will allow them to make a rational decision about their treatment. He said doctors often recommend clinical drug trials, if the patient qualifies, because they believe it to be the best available cancer treatment.

“There are patients who still feel like any kind of clinical trial is experimentation,” said Pippas.

He said that patients don’t always understand the process of a clinical trial, which scares them into believing that participation could be an unsafe risk.

“There are patients who don’t understand that they are really protected on a clinical trial and there’s a whole group of by-laws and rules that the NIH (National Institutes of Health) set up to protect them,” he added.

Before a drug like bavituximab, the drug which is currently being tested, can be administered to human subjects, it must be tested for safety and efficacy in the laboratory and on animals, said FDA public affairs officer Pat El-Hinnawy.

“The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) would certainly not allow products on the market that are not safe or not effective,” said El-Hinnawy, regarding the importance and safety of clinical trials.

Promoting the bavituximab drug trial in the state of Georgia is the Georgia Center for Oncology Research and Education. Formed in 2003, Georgia CORE is a non-profit organization devoted to increasing access to new cancer treatments and more effective cancer care.

According to the organization’s literature, the availability of clinical trials in Georgia grew 41 percent between 2009 and 2010, due in large part to the network they’ve helped create throughout the state.

“Every new therapy, regardless of what cancer it (treats), started in a clinical trial,” said Nancy Paris, president and CEO of Georgia CORE.

The current standard treatment for pancreatic cancer is a drug called Gemzar, which has been shown to improve the quality of life for pancreatic cancer patients, but not length of life, said Pippas.

In the bavituximab drug trial, participants will be randomly selected to receive either the standard treatment (Gemzar) or the standard treatment plus bavituximab. The patients and doctors will be aware of who is receiving which treatment and each patient’s progress will be monitored.

Bavituximab is considered a first-in-class treatment, which means that it treats cancer in a different way than other drugs. Bavituximab targets and attacks blood cells within the cancerous tumor, shrinking the tumor and hopefully increasing the efficacy of chemotherapy. In early stages of the disease, it could allow for a previously inoperable tumor to be surgically removed.

After three months of treatment, the patient would be evaluated to see the effect of the treatment on the disease.

“We would continue either until the disease went away completely or until they had evidence of progression or they had some issue going on,” said Pippas. “We would continue (treatment) indefinitely.”



TO PARTICIPATE

      If you are a previously untreated stage-four pancreatic cancer patient and would like to participate in the current clinical drug trial, contact the John B. Amos Cancer Center at 706-320-8700. Press option 5 and ask for Nancy Price, the clinical research program manager.





 WHAT TO CONSIDER BEFORE PARTICIPATING IN CLINICAL RESEARCH

      People should know as much as possible about the clinical trial and feel comfortable asking the members of the health-care team questions about it. Dr. Andrew Pippas is the principal investigator for a current pancreatic cancer clinical drug trial taking place at the John B. Amos Cancer Center, among four other locations in the state. Pippas said he tries to provide patients with as much information about clinical trials as possible so they can make the best decisions about their treatment options.

      Here are some questions from The Center for Information & Study on Clinical Research Participation (CISCRP) that patients should consider asking before participating in a study:

      • What is the purpose of the study?

      • Who is going to be in the study?

      • Why do researchers believe the new treatment being tested may be effective? Has it been tested before?

      • What kinds of tests and treatments are involved?

      • How do the possible risks, side effects, and benefits in the study compare with my current treatment?

      • How might this trial affect my daily life?

      • How long will the trial last?

      • Will hospitalization be required?

      • Who will pay for the treatment?

      • Will I be reimbursed for other expenses?

      • What type of long-term follow up care is part of this study?

      • How will I know that the treatment is working? Will results of the trials be provided to me?

      • Who will be in charge of my care?


Saturday, December 24, 2011

The Amazing Grace Christmas Light House - Official Version


Sometimes we just need a little Christmas cheer.  Enjoy!

The Amazing Grace Christmas House. Designed and programmed by Richard Holdman in Pleasant Grove, Utah.

News from ASCO Gastrointestinal Cancer Symposium

Assistant Professor, Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology

Kopetz2.jpgThis past weekend, experts in gastrointestinal malignancies gathered to review interval advances in the field at the ASCO Gastrointestinal Cancer Symposium. Of the studies presented, three are worth noting that are likely to change the standard therapies or provide exciting research opportunities.

Neuroendocrine Tumors

Treatment for neuroendocrine tumors has made recent advances, exemplified by a study reported at the meeting for the oral tyrosine kinase inhibitor sunitinibPancreatic neuroendocrine tumor (PNET) is one of the most common subtypes of an uncommon tumor. PNETs traditionally have been treated variably with somatostatin analogs, interferon or cytotoxic chemotherapy, although several recent studies have demonstrated promising molecularly targeted treatment approaches.

Laboratory studies have suggested that treatment with agents that inhibit blood vessel formation may provide benefit. Sunitinib is an inhibitor of vascular endothelial growth factor signaling, one of the main drivers of new blood vessel growth.

In an international randomized Phase III study, 340 patients with advanced PNET were planned to be enrolled in a study comparing observation alone to a daily oral dose of sunitinib. After only 171 were enrolled, the study was stopped as it was already evident that patients treated with sunitinib had improvements in their cancer and were living longer.

On average, patients had their disease controlled for 11.4 months with sunitinib treatment, compared to an average time to tumor growth of 5.5 months with no therapy. Similarly, sunitinib-treated patients lived twice as long. Side effects from the treatment were modest, and included development of high blood pressure and irritation/redness of the palms and soles. If validated, these results will open a new treatment option for patients with advanced pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors.

Pancreatic Cancer

Traditional pancreatic cancers have been difficult to treat and very few advances have been made in the field over the past few years. Recent data has suggested that the insulin-like growth factor receptor (IGFR) pathway may be a promising candidate for treatment of many cancers, including pancreatic cancer based on limited laboratory studies.

One of the first and largest studies to evaluate an inhibitor of IGFR in combination with chemotherapy was recently completed at M. D. Anderson and reported by Milind Javle, M.D., in an oral session. In this study, patients were treated with a monoclonal antibody to IGFR in combination with chemotherapy. The study demonstrated that the combination was safe, with some patients having prolonged disease control. A Phase II portion of the study is ongoing using a novel adaptive study design, which allocates more patients to the treatment arm that appears to be performing the best.

Importantly, Dr. Javle and his colleagues are concurrently collecting important information to understand how the tumor is responding on a molecular level to the novel therapies. This combination of concurrent molecular studies and novel study design was praised by the expert discussant at the meeting as an optimal model for future studies in pancreatic cancer.

Colon Cancer

Significant effort has been focused on new techniques to detect and prevent colon cancer. One recent advance was presented by K.P. Raj, M.D., on the role of polyamines in colon cancer development.

Previously animal studies suggest that very high levels of diet intake of polyamines can increase colon cancer, while decreasing polyamines can reduce colon cancer development. Polyamines come from two sources: they are synthesized in the body as well as ingested in the normal diet, with highest levels in orange juice, red meat, peas, corn and nuts, among others.

A large chemoprevention study of DFMO and sulindac had previously shown a 70% reduction in new precancerous lesions. In this study, 375 patients with prior precancerous lesions were randomized to DFMO/sulindac or placebo, with all patients obtaining normal screening colonoscopies. DFMO and sulindac inhibit new synthesis of polyamines in the body, among other potential mechanisms of actions. Dr. Raj analyzed the dietary intake of polyamines in patients on this study to determine the role for the dietary forms of polyamine in cancer formation.

These results demonstrated that patients who reported high dietary intake of polyamines had larger and more advanced colon polyps prior to starting the study. For patients with lower reported dietary intake of polyamine, treatment with DFMO and sulindac resulted in a 94% reduction in advanced cancers. In contrast, in patients with high dietary intake of polyamines, there was no benefit seen with the chemoprevention. Further studies are needed to understand this finding, but it suggests that in high-risk patients, chemoprevention may only be beneficial with appropriate dietary modifications. 

Collectively, these findings reiterate the active ongoing research in gastrointestinal malignancies, while highlighting areas where significant improvements are needed in our ability to detect, diagnosis and treat gastrointestinal cancers.

High bodily levels of nickel and selenium may lower pancreatic cancer risk


High bodily levels of the trace elements nickel and selenium may lower the risk of developing the most common type of pancreatic cancer, finds research published online in Gut.

Similarly, high levels of lead, arsenic, and cadmium could boost the likelihood of developing the disease, the study shows.

The researchers assessed 12 trace element levels in the toenails of 118 patients with exocrine pancreatic cancer—the most common form of the disease—and just under 400 hospital patients without cancer.

Nails, and particularly toenails, are considered reliable indicators of trace element levels, rather than dietary assessment, because they capture intake/exposure from other sources over the long term.

Analysis of the nail content showed that levels of certain trace elements were significantly higher or lower among the cancer patients than among patients in the comparison group. The higher or lower the level, the greater or lesser was the risk of having the disease.

Patients with the highest levels of arsenic and cadmium in their nails were between two and 3.5 times more likely to have pancreatic cancer than those with the lowest levels.

And those with the highest levels of lead were more than 6 times as likely to have the disease.

On the other hand, those with the highest levels of nickel and selenium were between 33% and 95% less likely to have the disease compared with those with the lowest levels.

These findings held true even after taking account of other known risk factors, such as diabetes, overweight, and smoking.

Smoking is thought to account for around a third of all cases of pancreatic cancer. Tobacco contains trace metals, including cadmium, which is a known cancer causing agent, and has been associated with an increased risk of lung, kidney, and prostate cancers.

High levels of selenium, on the other hand, have been associated with conferring protection against certain cancers, and previous research indicates that selenium may counter the harmful effects of cadmium, arsenic, and lead.

The authors point out that despite decades of research, the causes of pancreatic cancer remain largely unknown: "Our results support an increased risk of pancreatic cancer associated with higher levels of cadmium, arsenic, and lead, as well as an inverse association with higher levels of selenium and nickel," they conclude.

"These novel findings, if replicated in independent studies, would point to an important role of trace elements in pancreatic carcinogenesis."

###
Notes for editors:
Gut is one of more than 35 specialist titles published by BMJ Group. It is co-owned with the British Society for Gastroenterology. www.gut.bmj.com


Friday, December 23, 2011

Cancer Tip Sheet – Getting Through the Holidays: Tips for Cancer Survivors

Introduction
It’s holiday time! The whole world seems consumed with tinsel and glitter but those who have been coping with a cancer diagnosis, chemotherapy, or radiation may not feel like celebrating in the same ways that they used to. At various times during the cancer journey, survivors have definite limitations and may not be able to function at normal capacity. This is a good time for survivors to evaluate their priorities and decide what is meaningful for their families and themselves. Knowing how cancer can change a person feels physically and emotionally, cancer survivors have shared the following thoughts in the hope of making holidays easier to handle and enjoyable for others dealing with the disease.
Deciding What Can Be Comfortably Done
We must decide what we can handle comfortably and let those needs be known to family, friends, and relatives, for example: 
  • Whether we can handle the responsibility of the family dinner, holiday parties, etc., or if we wish someone else to take over some of these traditional tasks; 
  • Whether we will stay home for the holidays, or “escape” to a totally different (and relaxing) holiday environment this year; 
  • Whether we can handle all of the shopping, or if we can make lists and let others shop for us, or shop online or from catalogs; 
  • Where we can Invite friends into our home to share a holiday happening such as trimming the tree baking cookies, making decorations, or have a having a gift wrapping party;
Making Changes
Don’t be afraid to make changes. It really can make things less stressful and more enjoyable!
  • Consider opening Hanukkah and Christmas gifts on a different day or at a different location;
  • Have dinner at a different time or place or try new foods;
  • Consider combining numerous friend and family get-togethers into one or two;
  • Let friends or family members assist with decorating, making cookies, etc.;

Helping Others
Many people derive pleasure from doing something for others. You might consider doing the following:
  • Making handmade gifts or baked goods for family members, and attach small tags with special sayings on them;
  • Writing a letter to special friends or family members to let them know how much their support has meant to you;
  • Donating money to a charity in honor of family members;
  • Inviting a guest that doesn’t have a family (such as a foreign student, senior citizen, etc.) to share in your family events;
  • Getting family members to go in together to buy small gifts, then wrap them individually and take them to local nursing homes for others to enjoy. Use this activity in the place of buying each other gifts that aren’t desired or needed.
Questions to Ask Yourself
Whether it’s greeting cards, holiday baking, putting up the tree, decorating outside, or having a big family dinner, ask these questions before making any decisions:
  • Have I openly discussed my feelings and wishes with friends and family who may be affected?
  • What are the pros and cons of changing this tradition?
  • Can other family members share this task?
  • What is most important about the holidays to me, and how can I maintain that spirit?
Something Special for Yourself
Remember to take time to do something special for YOURSELF!
  • Spend as much time and effort on selecting yourself a gift as you would for someone else. Then, wrap it up and select a very special time and place to enjoy the gift.
  • Buy two tickets to an event you want to attend. Keep one for yourself, and give one to a friend as a special holiday gift.
  • Consider a “winter holiday”– take time out to enjoy what nature has to offer this season.
Related Articles:

Thursday, December 22, 2011

Hope Cancer Resources

Not local, but a great blog with helpful ideas and resources.  Check it out.


Our Mission...
We provide compassionate, professional cancer support and education in the Northwest Arkansas region today and tomorrow.


Who we are...Hope Cancer Resources
We provide cancer support and education in the Northwest Arkansas region today and tomorrow. Our support programs for cancer patients include financial and emotional support, patient navigation, transportation and Spanish interpretation services. Cancer prevention education is provided to the communities in Northwest Arkansas. Please contact us if you are interested in supporting us by volunteering or giving a gift. Business Office: 5835 W. Sunset Springdale, AR 72762 Ph: 479-361-5847 Fax: 479-361-9104 Website: http://www.hopecancerresources.org 



http://hopecancerresources.blogspot.com/

New Hope For Treating Pancreatic Cancer

By Milind Javle, M.D., associate professor, Department of Gastrointestinal (GI) Medical Oncology, MD Anderson Cancer Center

Recently, a clinical trial published in the New England Journal of Medicine has offered new hope for patients suffering from pancreatic cancer.

This trial enrolled over 300 patients with advanced cancer of the pancreas, who were treated with either the standard chemotherapy with gemcitabine or with a four-drug chemotherapy combination called FOLFIRINOX.

A five-month improvement in survival was noted with FOLFIRINOX; this regimen also delayed cancer progression. This study is important because for the first time a drug combination has been shown to extend survival of pancreatic cancer patients by a significant degree over that offered by gemcitabine, alone.

Paradise Santa

The community of Paradise is rallying together this Christmas to help a man stricken with cancer.

Employees from the skilled nursing facility... "Life House Cypress", are reaching out to one of their co-workers.

The 28-year old man, who wishes to remain anonymous, is battling pancreatic cancer.

His fellow co-workers have adopted his family for the holidays to ensure his four year old son receives plenty of Christmas presents this year.

Santa even stopped by to deliver the gifts himself, with the help of the Paradise Fire Department. 

"The greatness of the community has been overwhelming. We were just trying to get our work people involved and so we had put it on Facebook, called into radio stations and news stations, and put a story out there. it's been overwhelming how much support that we've gotten.

A fund for the family has also been set up at US banks.

The fund is called the superhero fund if you'd like to donate.