Limited Edition Bracelets Benefit The Lustgarten Foundation

The Lustgarten Foundation, London Jewelers, and Roberto Coin are pleased to announce the creation of three Roberto Coin Limited Edition Bracelets designed exclusively to benefit The Lustgarten Foundation.

Woven sterling bangle bracelet with purple overlay, retails for $275, $100 will be donated to The Lustgarten Foundation. The design is also available in sterling silver or 18k yellow gold with a magnetic clasp that has an amethyst stone on one side. Retail price for the silver is $450, $150 will be donated to The Lustgarten Foundation. Retail price for the gold is $1600, $500 will be donated to The Lustgarten Foundation.

Purchase bracelets now or for additional information please call 877.601.9924 or visit any London Jewelers location today.

Cancer Match?

Cancer Support Network, Dating and Social Support

CancerMatch is a powerful cancer survivor networking site. Meet people who are diagnosed with cancer from all over the world. With CancerMatch you can:

• Create a circle of friends who share your diagnosis, or, simply, care about you
• Build your own network of contacts who share your diagnosis
• Use built-in communication services to meet or mentor
• Write your own blog
• Join a live chat group or person to person chat
• Post your real life event or attend other members' events
• Create and lead your own live chat or support group
• Meet new friends and, maybe, even fall in love

Not a member yet? Please click here to join CancerMatch or push the "Join" button below to apply and start networking on CancerMatch!

Check it out at: http://www.cancermatch.com/

Detecting Early Stage Pancreatic Cancer

Lisa Schulmeister, RN, MN, APRN-BC, OCN, FAAN,
Published Online: Monday, September 12th, 2011
http://www.onclive.com/social-media/Nurses_Blogs/0911/Detecting-Early-Stage-Pancreatic-Cancer

Pancreatic cancer is likely at or near the top of the list of most-feared cancers. With a life expectancy of only 5-8 months from the time of diagnosis, it would be wonderful if this cancer could be detected earlier, when there is a greater chance of cure or long-term control of the disease.

Abdominal pain, jaundice, and weight loss are signs and symptoms of pancreatic cancer, but often do not occur until the cancer is no longer in its early stage. Pancreatic cancer has been described as a “silent” cancer until it is locally advanced or metastatic, at which point effective treatment options are limited. In stage 1 disease, however, resection of the pancreas improves overall survival. Early detection is therefore critical.

The tumor marker CA 19-9 has been used to help diagnosis pancreatic cancer for many years. However, using this tumor marker has a screening tool has met with limited success. Researchers at the University of Chicago hoped to identify a way to detect pancreatic cancer in its earliest stage. They conducted a study of 546 people, ages 50-80, that had a first-degree relative with pancreatic cancer. First-degree relatives included parents, siblings, and children. All were given a serum CA 19-9 test; if the level was elevated (greater than 37 units/mL), the person also underwent targeted endoscopic ultrasound (EUS).
 

CA 19-9 levels were elevated in 27 patients (5% of the group), with neoplastic or malignant findings detected in 5 (0.9%) and pancreatic adenocarcinoma (stage 1 disease) in one (0.2%). No additional patients in the CA 19-9/EUS study had developed the disease at 1-year follow-up. In the comparison group of 124 patients who received a diagnosis of pancreatic cancer at the same facility but were not part of the study, one patient (0.9%) presented with stage 1 disease, 52 (46%) with stage 2, 20 (17%) with stage 3, and 41 (36%) with stage 4. Although only one patient each in the intervention group and in the comparison group had stage 1 disease, the difference was statistically significant because the detection of stage 1 cancer in the comparison group was so rare.

The researchers concluded that potentially curative pancreatic adenocarcinoma could be identified with the CA 19-9/EUS screening protocol, and that stage 1 cancer is more likely to be detected by this protocol than by standard means of detection.

Walk Memories

Sloan's Lake serves as a great backdrop for the walk.

The Phillips Family -- they started it all.

The 2009 Walk.  A little snow couldn't stop us!

Over 300 attendees in 2010.

Coping with Cancer

An Interview with Christine Clifford

Interview with Dr. Wegmann, co-founder and editor of TheNewWellness.com on October 13, 2009 "All of us have read or heard stories about people who turn lemons into lemonade. It isn't often that we get the privilege of meeting such an individual."  Read more.

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What a Simple Gesture Can Do

Most people when they hear that someone has cancer do not know what to say. They do not want to say they ”wrong” thing, so they often end up saying nothing. This causes the cancer patient to feel even more isolated and alone. A simple gesture and offer to help can be music to a cancer patient's ears.  Read more.

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As Simple as ABC

Last summer, August 21st to be exact, I tripped over my son's hockey skates (I know, I know…hockey skates in the middle of summer?!? But hey, that's what we do here in Minnesota). I broke my toe, tore two tendons in my wrist, and thoroughly damaged my pride. Under ordinary circumstances and for the average person, this would be just one of life's little “mishaps”.  Read more.

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A Year For A Cure?

Here's a toast to a New Year, and to health, joy, prosperity, peace and happiness. I'm really excited about this New Year and everything we all have to look forward to. For with every New Year come change, resolution, promises and commitment. As we reflect on all the things that took place in our lives last year, don't we all have a lot to be thankful for?  Read more.

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Laughter: It's A Family Affair!

Three days after undergoing breast cancer surgery in December, '94, I heard the doorbell ring downstairs from my place of rest in my bedroom. "Mom!" screamed my second-grader Brooks, "More flowers for your breast!"  Read more.

Walking for a Cure!

It's time to register for the Denver Walk.


The incredible support of friends like you has helped grow the Walk Series to a major force in the fight against pancreatic cancer. Through 2010, the Pancreatic Cancer Research Walk Series has raised more than $12.7 million! Please join us at The Denver Walk, and help us build on this success.

Once registered, you will receive a Starter Kit in the mail. The Kit contains materials you need to reach your fundraising goal. Our on-line registration site also provides information on how you can create your own personalized fundraising Web Page, send e-mails to your personal contacts, track donations and send thank-you emails to your walk supporters.

Volunteer at the Walk

Volunteers are among our greatest assets: from venue selection to cheering participants across the finish line, we rely on volunteers to help organize, manage and implement every aspect of our Walks. Simply stated, volunteers make it happen!

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.

We have a NEW facebook page!

Looking for information on the 2011 Walk?  Wanting to connect with others in Denver and throughout Colorado struggling with pancreatic cancer?  "Like" our new facebook page and stay connected!

https://www.facebook.com/notifications?id=161854773899129#!/pages/Lustgarten-Foundations-Pancreatic-Cancer-Fundraising-Walk-Denver/161854773899129

2 New Diabetes Pills Up Pancreatic Cancer Risk Threefold

Agencies Posted online: Sat Sep 17 2011

Washington : Two new drugs used to treat Type 2 diabetes could significantly increase the risk of developing pancreatitis and pancreatic and thyroid cancer, a new study has warned.

 
Researchers from the Larry L. Hillblom Islet Research Center at UCLA examined the US Food and Drug Administration’s database for adverse events reported between 2004 and 2009 among patients using the drugs sitagliptin and exenatide.

They found a six-fold increase in the odds ratio for reported cases of pancreatitis with these drugs, compared with four other diabetes therapies they used as controls.

In addition to the six-fold increase in reported cases of pancreatitis, the researchers also found a 2.9-fold greater rate of pancreatic cancer in patients using exenatide and a 2.7-fold higher rate of pancreatic cancer in patients on sitagliptin, compared with the other therapies.

Additionally, they found a statistically significant increase in the risk of thyroid cancer among the exenatide group, but not among the sitagliptin group.

The study has been published in the journal Gastroenterology. 

Bennett Elementary School Teacher is Walking for a Cure

By Gerry Tuoti

TAUNTON —More than a year after successfully undergoing cancer surgery, Bennett Elementary School teacher Denise Dukeman has dedicated herself to raising money for research into the disease that nearly cut her life short.

Dukeman, who was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in March 2010, is holding a fundraiser June 18 at the Portuguese American Civic Club to raise money for her team to participate in a pancreatic cancer walk in Boston on Oct. 2.

All money generated by the walk will benefit the Lustgarten Foundation, an organization devoted to researching pancreatic cancer. Research into that illness, she said, lags behind research into other forms of cancer when it comes to funding.

The fourth-grade teacher said being back in the classroom has given her a tremendous lift.

“Work has been truly gratifying, just to know you are part of another family,” Dukeman said.

The children, she added, have been very interested in finding ways to help her raise money for cancer research. Students sold bracelets earlier in the year to raise funds. Another boy, Dukeman said, went from door to door in his neighborhood soliciting more than $100 in donations for the pancreatic cancer walk.

“I think it’s great for kids to know that even as children they can have a part and come up with ways to help,” she said.

The June 18 event at the PACC will feature a number of family- and kid-friendly activities. There will be meat-on-a-stick, music, raffles and games. Dukeman also plans to have children’s meals available, containing hot dogs, chips and juice.

A strong support network, Dukeman said, has been vital during her sickness, surgery and recovery.

“I’m so grateful for the support I have,” she said. “Everyone’s been so supportive.”

When Dukeman began feeling stomach pain last March, she initially thought she had come down with a flu bug that had been going around the school. But since the pain was accompanied by jaundiced skin, her doctor became concerned.

After her doctors conducted a series of tests, Dukeman learned she had a malignant tumor on her pancreas.

Unlike most pancreatic tumors, however, Dukeman’s was operable. Within weeks, she underwent the Whipple procedure, a major seven-hour surgical operation that removed the tumor from her pancreas.

She explained how the experience has altered her outlook and has given her a greater awareness of the little things in life.

“You appreciate things that you just kind of took for granted,” she said.

Contact Gerry Tuoti at gtuoti@tauntongazette.com.

Copyright 2011 The Taunton Gazette. Some rights reserved

Read more: http://www.tauntongazette.com/archive/x311048492/Cancer-surviving-Bennett-Elementary-School-teacher-holding-fundraiser-for-disease-research#ixzz1O3N9ggpW

There are Lustgarten Events throughout the country!

2011 Clinton County Pancreatic Cancer Research Walk Clinton County OH 8/28/2011
2011 St. Louis Pancreatic Cancer Research Walk St. Louis MO 9/10/2011
2011 Albany Pancreatic Cancer Research Walk Albany NY 9/11/2011
2011 Bridgewater Pancreatic Cancer Research Walk Bridgewater NJ 9/17/2011
2011 Fremont Pancreatic Cancer Research Walk Fremont CA 9/17/2011
2011 Cedar Rapids Pancreatic Cancer Research Walk Cedar Rapids IA 9/18/2011
2011 Paramus Pancreatic Cancer Research Walk Paramus NJ 9/18/2011
2011 Kansas Pancreatic Cancer Research Walk Kansas KS 9/25/2011
2011 New England Pancreatic Cancer Research Walk New England MA 10/2/2011
2011 Long Island Pancreatic Cancer Research Walk Long Island NY 10/9/2011
2011 Indianapolis Pancreatic Cancer Research Walk Indianapolis IN 10/16/2011
2011 Dallas Pancreatic Cancer Research Walk Dallas TX 10/23/2011
2011 Dutchess County Pancreatic Cancer Research Walk Dutchess County NY 10/29/2011
2011 Fairfield County Pancreatic Cancer Research Walk Bethel CT 10/30/2011
2011 Denver Pancreatic Cancer Research Walk Denver CO 11/6/2011
2011 Pennsauken Pancreatic Cancer Research Walk Pennsauken NJ 11/6/2011

Support Lustgarten: Cedar Rapids Pancreatic Cancer Research Walk

http://www.cedarrapidswalk​.kintera.org/

Cedar Rapids Pancreatic Cancer Research Walk
Sunday, September 18, 2011


Pre-Registration Fee $50 / Walk-In Registration Fee $60
Registration 8:00 am / Walk starts at 9:00 am

Join us on Sunday, September 18, 2011 at Noleridge Lagoon Cedar Rapids, IA. Pancreatic Cancer Research Events are a great way to increase funding for research and raise awareness for pancreatic cancer. Lustgarten Foundation Events serve as a wonderful celebration of the progress being made in the fight against this disease, and your important participation provides hope for the future. 

Support Lustgarten: Bridgewater Pancreatic Cancer Research Walk

http://www.bridgewaterwalk​.kintera.org/

Bridgewater Pancreatic Cancer Research Walk
Saturday, September 17, 2011

Pre-Registration Fee $50 / Walk-In Registration Fee $60
Registration 8:30 am / Walk starts at 10:00 am

Join us on Saturday, September 17, 2011 at Duke Island Park, Bridgewater, NJ. Pancreatic Cancer Research Events are a great way to increase funding for research and raise awareness for pancreatic cancer. Lustgarten Foundation Events serve as a wonderful celebration of the progress being made in the fight against this disease, and your important participation provides hope for the future. 

Have you heard about Caring Bridge?

Often when you are battling a disease like Pancreatic Cancer it's hard to keep up with everyone who loves you.  Caring Bridge is a new Lustgarten partner, and is here to support you through your treatment.  It’s your personal and private journal, guestbook and photo album—all in one place. Sharing your CaringBridge website with your friends and family makes staying in touch easy and stress free.  And best of all, it's free!  Learn more at http://www.caringbridge.org/lustgarten.

Identifying a Doctor and Facility When You Have Cancer

Diane Simeone, M.D., director of the Pancreatic Cancer Research Program provides insight for patients looking for a cancer treatment.

Diane Simeone, M.D.

Meet the Expert:
Diane Simeone, M.D.

Learn more: Pancreatic Cancer Information

This interview is provided courtesy of the Lustgarten Foundation. Based in Bethpage, New York, it is America's largest private foundation dedicated solely to funding pancreatic cancer research. Founded in 1998, the Foundation provides critical support in the search for better diagnostics and treatment of pancreatic cancer, and to date has provided more than $38 million to more than 125 research projects at medical and research centers worldwide.

The interviewer is Virginia Cravotta, an award-winning journalist. Ms. Cravotta has been Senior Affairs Correspondent for News 12 Long Island, NY, since 1995.

Virginia Cravotta (VC):
A particular concern for individuals diagnosed with pancreatic cancer is whether they have time to research treatment centers and receive second opinions before settling on a course of action.

Dr. Diane Simeone (DS):
It is important that a patient who decides to be evaluated and/or treated at a high volume center understand how long it will take to be seen. Typically, being seen within a few weeks is reasonable; longer than that is not. There are times when medical issues need to be dealt with urgently, such as when a patient is experiencing biliary obstruction, significant pain, or difficulty eating with nausea and vomiting. Generally, however, once acute medical issues are addressed, there is a window of time to seek out the best course of action.

VC:
Once someone is diagnosed, what is the best way to select an oncologist and/or treatment center

DS:
It is important to seek care from doctors or from a center that provides very high quality care and is experienced with the care of pancreatic cancer. This is definitely a cancer requiring a multi-disciplinary treatment approach. "Multi-disciplinary" refers to relying on the input of gastroenterologists, surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, as well as allied health care professionals including oncology nurses and social workers.

Generally, patients ask their primary care doctor for a referral to someone who they know is an expert in the care of pancreatic cancer. Alternatively, your doctor may refer you to a center that has expertise in treating pancreatic cancer. There are sources of information available to help patients sort this out if your doctor isn't familiar with the best oncologist or center with expertise in pancreatic cancer. One way to begin is to find out if there is a National Cancer Institute (NCI) – Designated Cancer Center in your area. NCI-Designated Cancer Centers are considered centers of excellence, which have received recognition for their expertise. Additionally, there are resources to help you find physicians experienced in the care of pancreatic cancer.
It's important to know that the doctor is board certified in their specialty; the volume of pancreatic cancer patients they've treated; how many pancreatic cancer patients are seen at their center; and whether there is a team that works together to make optimal decisions about what treatment is going to be best and the timing of treatment.

You may need to meet with more than one doctor. In fact, the NCI recommends getting a second opinion to compare and contrast recommendations and get a sense of whether your doctor's recommendations are supported by others.

VC:
Tell us more about NCI-Designated Cancer Centers and the advantages of being treated at a high-volume cancer center. How might a patient check the quality-of-care offered at various cancer treatment centers?

DS:
Patients are best served by being seen in high-volume centers, which offer a multi-disciplinary team of physicians and allied support services. Additionally, these centers offer multi-disciplinary tumor board meetings, where you will be evaluated by doctors representing all of the different specialties who all "weigh-in" and determine your optimal treatment plan. There are numerous components to think about when it comes to best quality of care at treatment centers.
With regard to surgery, it's particularly important to identify a surgeon with expertise in pancreatic surgery. There is data to show that the number of pancreatic resections your surgeon performs annually is an excellent predictor of surgical outcomes. Probably the biggest difference in mortality among high and low volume surgeons is due to the complexity of pancreatic surgery. Therefore, it's a good idea to ask your surgeon how many pancreatic resections he/she perform annually. At a minimum, you want them to perform 15 to 20 pancreatic resections per year. You also should ask your surgeon about their complication rates and, in particular, their 30-day operative mortality rate.

Continue reading this article at: http://www.cancer.med.umich.edu/living/choosing-a-physician2.shtml

Support Lustgarten: Paramus, NJ

Live in New Jersey?  

Join Lustgarten on Sunday, September 18, 2011 at Bergen Community College, Paramus, NJ. 

Register Now!