TLC (Together we Live with Cancer!) Supportive Newsletter

Transcription

Together we
Live with
Cancer!
MATTHEWS
ONCOLOGY
ASSOCIATES
SHEBOYGAN
CANCER & BLOOD
SPECIALISTS
TLC is a “Supportive Community" that provides cancer survivors, their families, friends
and caregivers with health and wellness opportunities for the body, mind, heart and spirit.
Fall, 2014 (Volume 14, Issue 3)
“Getting the wind knocked out of you is
the only way to remind your lungs how
much they like the taste of air.”
– Sarah Kay, Spoken Word Poet
INSIDE THIS ISSUE:
MY TWO CENTS WORTH (1
ST
CENT):
SURVIVING & THRIVING:
The Lesson of the
Impermanent Cent!
2
By Tim E. Renzelmann
What Does Being an A.S.S. Mean to Me? 11
By Felicia Shaw
SURVIVOR SPOTLIGHTS:
Julie Burhop
4
Me and My Soles
4
THE LOCAL CANCER COMMUNITY:
Breast Cancer Survivor
Dennis Brand
Melanoma & Prostate Cancer Survivor
7
By Felicia Shaw
H. Marshall Matthews, M.D.
Oncology/Hematology
920-458-7433
How to Stay Connected with
The Local Cancer Community
WHAT ARE THE CHANCES:
You Light Up My Life!
11
By Karen Alsteen
What You Should Know About The
Sheboygan County Cancer Care Fund! 11
ACTIVE SURVIVORS OF SHEBOYGAN:
Exercise Good Judgment:
Become an A.S.S.!
TLC Survivor Exhibit “People’s Choice”
Award Winner (& MORE)
10
9
15
Part II of this article will explore SCCCF’s “Survive,
Thrive & Be Fit” program and appear in the next
issue of the TLC Supportive Newsletter!
1621 N Taylor Drive, Suite 100
Sheboygan,1WI 53081
www.moa-scbs.com
S. Mark Bettag, M.D.
Oncology/Hematology
920-452-1650
MY TWO CENTS WORTH:
eventually turns into a permanent coating that can
actually protect the coin. And copper is known to
age with a rather distinct “tone” that I find quite
appealing. But today’s primarily zinc coins… well,
they have a different look and once the thin
copper coating wears off, these coins break down
much faster than their copper counterparts.
I realized that, despite the fact that the penny
is still a part of our monetary system, the copper
penny that I fell in love with many years ago is no
longer with us. It has been replaced by its much
more inferior counterpart and offers a mere
illusion that things have not changed! This is the
lesson of the impermanent CENT and a reminder
of the lesson of impermanence.
Impermanence is the notion that everything,
absolutely everything in this life is constantly
changing and absolutely nothing is permanent.
One of my most significant lessons of
impermanence came about a week before
Christmas in 1996. After my initial diagnosis in
1992 I had been cancer-free. I had met and
married my dear wife Shel and adopted her son
and welcomed her two stepdaughters into my life.
At the time I was originally diagnosed I never
really struggled much with the “Why me?”
question. I will admit, however, that as someone
who had lived an active and healthy life, I was a
bit stumped by the “How me?” question. But after
learning that the cancer had come back, I
agonized over the “Why NOW?” question.
As the weeks and months unfolded, I
struggled. At one appointment with Dr. Matthews
he asked me how I was doing to which I rather
tersely replied, “I’m fine!” Of course, he saw right
through that charade. “Really?” he inquired. “You
do realize that FINE stands for Frustrated,
Insecure, Neurotic and Emotional?” Hmmm???
That sounded about right!
We talked and, eventually, he counseled me
as he often did. He reminded me that having a
wonderful wife and three lovely children in my life
was not something I should lament or something
that should bring worry or despair into my life but
something I should appreciate, embrace and
enjoy! He reminded me to be thankful for what I
have today and not worry about what I might lose
tomorrow. It was a lesson of impermanence!
We easily accept the notion of impermanence
when it relates to pain, suffering, despair and
cancer; but when it comes to the people we love,
the relationships we find meaningful and the
things we value we quickly reject it. But there are
many benefits of accepting and embracing the
notion of impermanence in all areas of our lives:
The Lesson of the
Impermanent Cent!
I re-CENT-ly, went to the
bank to pick up a $50 bag of
pennies to sort through in search
of the increasingly rare wheat penny and other
collectible coins. This is something I did fairly
regularly in my younger years and was a common
practice during stressful periods of my cancer
experience but something I haven’t done in years!
In fact, when I got to the bank I learned that
pennies no longer come in $50 “bags” but in $25
“bricks” (cardboard boxes). No matter… I got two
bricks of pennies (100 rolls/5,000 pennies) that
took me only a few nights to search through.
First, the good news: I was pleased to find
27 wheat pennies, the oldest of which was a
1937! Additionally, I found 14 Canadian pennies
(yep, I collect them too), a couple foreign coins
(that I just tossed into my “foreign coin” bin) and
113 pennies dated 1998 (these I save and give to
Terry, my brother and marrow donor, in honor of
our 1998 “Tim & Terry MARROW-thon”/bone
marrow transplant).
As for the bad news: Although I was pleased
with the results, there weren’t any great finds and
it was a rather disappointing experience. You
see, despite prescription glasses, additional
magnification and good lighting, it has become
much more difficult to read the dates on many of
the pennies that passed through my hands.
Pennies that I once described as “magnifi-CENT”
now seemed quite “unpleas-CENT” as many were
dark, corroded, and rather ugly looking!
The earliest U.S. One Cent pieces were pure
copper from 1793 to 1837. From 1837 to 1857
they were made of bronze (95% copper and 5%
tin and zinc). Between 1857 and 1864 they were
made of 88% copper and 12% nickel (giving these
coins a whitish color). From 1864 to 1962 they
went back to bronze (except for the 1943 One
Cent piece that was changed to zinc-coated steel
due to the need for copper to support the war
effort). In 1962 the coin’s tin content was
removed making the coin 95% copper and 5%
zinc. Then, in 1982, almost all of the copper was
removed and a composition of 2.5% copper and
97.5% zinc was instituted.
Copper is a particularly resistant metal which
made the mostly copper coins much more stable.
As the copper oxidates it develops a film which
2

When I embrace the notion of impermanence I
am better able to accept that which is beyond
my control and let go of useless fret or worry.

When I consider change to be the nature of all
things (including me) I am better able to
accept what comes my way and rely on my
own natural ability to change, adjust and
adapt.

When I am aware that all that I have and all
that I experience is impermanent I am apt to
give them the time, the attention and the
appreciation that they deserve, thereby
experiencing greater enjoyment in the present
moment.

When I recognize the notion of impermanence
I am better able to reduce or eliminate any
unhealthy attachments which results in less
sorrow and despair when they take their
inevitable leave.

Perhaps, above all, accepting the
impermanence of being human (my own
impermanence and that of those around me)
offers the greatest insights into what it truly
means to be human and to fully engage in the
human experience!
what do you want me to do with your pennies?” I
smiled back at her. You see, we tend to deal with
the stresses of life through humor and
lightheartedness and I thought she was just
kidding around. Then I noticed a tear rolling down
her cheek. So we talked. We talked about
pennies… and we talked about a few other
things… just in case! It was a difficult but
necessary conversation!
I explained that, despite the CENT-imental
value these pennies have for me, there are only a
few coins in my collection that are of significant
value (and I told her where those were). The rest
of the tens of thousands of wheat pennies I have
accumulated over the years, I explained, are
worth little more than face value. “So, just give
them away or cash them in!”
I certainly know I won’t be here forever to
enjoy my pennies… and I know that someday my
pennies will find a new home or a new purpose.
That’s okay! That’s the impermanence of life!
The notion of impermanence, much like a
cancer diagnosis, begs the question, “If today
were the last day of your life, how would you
spend it?” Most would choose to spend their last
day doing what is most meaningful to them with
those who mean the most. What would you do?
Go ahead… make a list… a list of the things
you would do if it were your last day. Then make
a point to do at least one of those things each and
every day! Some days it may be one of those
ordinary, everyday things (like walking barefoot on
the beach)… other days it may be something a bit
more extra-ordinary (like travelling to an exotic
far-away place to walk barefoot on the beach).
Some days may only allow for a few minutes of
living as though it was your last day… other days
may allow for hours. Just do at least one thing on
your list every day and if today should be your last
day you will be assured that you lived it well!
As Always, Tim
________________________________________
Gil Fronsdal observes, “Sometimes, realizing
that an experience is impermanent, we can relax
with how it is, including its coming and going.
Other times, seeing that change is inevitable
helps us to let go of clinging to how things are or
resistance to change. And sometimes
recognizing that we are all equal in being subject
to aging, sickness & death is the basis of
compassion.”
We all know that someday we are going to
die… but few of us really believe it. Wisdom
comes to us as we age; not only through life
experiences but from an awareness that we will
not live forever; an awareness that is often
heightened by a cancer diagnosis.
Another lesson on impermanence came in
the summer of 1998. Treatment for my recurrent
disease was proving to be ineffective and the
cancer spread to my chest, abdomen, pelvis and
bone marrow. At the time, my options were few
and it appeared my greatest and perhaps only
hope for a prolonged survival would be a bone
marrow transplant. We were excited and hopeful
for the possibilities but also worried and
concerned about the risks.
A few days before I would be admitted for the
transplant my dear wife Shel approached me and
asked, “Tim, if anything should happen to you,
“Know the true value of time; snatch,
seize, and enjoy every moment of it.
No idleness, no laziness, no
procrastination: never put off till
tomorrow what you can do today.”
– Philip Stanhope, 4th Earl of Chesterfield
3
SURVIVOR SPOTLIGHTS:
Julie and Dennis mark the 89th and 90th “Survivor Spotlights to appear in this supportive newsletter since
our first issue in January of 2001! I have been fortunate to have had the privilege to spend time with each
of our Survivor Spotlights and share a part of their life and their story with you… and I encourage you to get
to know your fellow cancer patients/survivors by getting active in the local cancer community!
Julie Burhop
Dennis Brand
Breast Cancer Survivor
Diagnosis: 1995, Recurrence: 2009
Melanoma & Prostate
Cancer Survivor
(See photo on pg. 16)
Diagnosed: 2010 & 2012 (respectively)
Note from Tim: Julie has been a patient here for
almost twenty years… but for reasons she speaks of in
this spotlight, she chose not to get involved in the local
cancer community until last fall when she signed up for
SCCCF’s “Survivorship Through the Lens” Outdoor
Digital Photography Workshop where she earned
several “People’s Choice” awards (including “Best of
Show”)! Since then Julie has participated in a variety
of events and activities in the local cancer community
and is a perfect example of how you never know what
you may be missing unless you come and check us
out!!! I have been pleased to see Julie attend a variety
of events and activities because that tells me she finds
the time to be worthwhile… but I am also appreciative
of her involvement as she has motivated, encouraged
and inspired others! You see, involvement in the local
cancer community is not only about what you can get
out of it… but what you can give through it… and Julie
has certainly given much! Since this interview Julie is
back on chemo. Nevertheless, she always seems to
have a smile on her face, gratitude in her heart, and
kind words to say to those around her and is NOT
letting her life be slowed down or defined by cancer!
___________________________________________
(See photo on page 16)
Note from Tim: I very much enjoy the opportunities
that my position allows… But, as I have often said, I
would much rather have a cure for the diseases called
cancer and be unemployed! That is especially true
when I see a familiar face walk through our clinic doors
for the first time, as I did when Dennis did so in 2010!
I have known Dennis for a long time. He is a good
friend of my dad and the owner of Bump’s Bar on
Sheboygan’s south side where my dad and I have
rehydrated after an occasional round of golf, played
more than a few games of cribbage, and enjoyed their
delicious burgers, fish fry and other foods! It’s a great
little corner bar! I remember being there on one
occasion when a couple patrons were using some
rather offensive language and Dennis simply walked
over and said, “Either clean up the language or there’s
the door!” The rest of our time there that night was
more pleasant because of it! That’s Dennis. He is a
no-nonsense kind of guy with a very practical
approach to life! As all of our lives get more and more
complicated by the nanosecond… I find his
perspectives and philosophies to be quite refreshing.
He is realistic, practical and to the point and, much like
this “Survivor Spotlight” he keeps things “short, sweet
and to the point!”
The Summer of 1995!
It was the summer of 1995. I noticed a lump
while I was showering. Just knowing that it was
there bothered me so I went to the doctor. Of
course, the doctor said, “It’s probably nothing!” I
was still young and there isn’t any history of
cancer in my family so I wasn’t real worried. Two
days later they told me that I had cancer. I just
couldn’t believe this was happening to me and
right away I thought I was going to die! I
remember wanting to just crawl up in a ball and
cry... but you can’t really do that… not for very
long anyway.
_______________________________________
Prostate Cancer AND Melanoma!
It started in 2012 with a backache. Nothing
terrible… I just knew it was there and it wasn’t
getting any better. I saw a couple of
chiropractors, but that didn’t do any good. Then I
had a physical, and my urine test showed some
abnormalities. I had more appointments and
more tests and they found my PSA was high.
When they told me I had prostate cancer it
bothered me a little but I had cancer before.
(Cont’d on pg. 8)
(Cont’d on pg. 5)
4
SPECIAL SPOTLIGHT:
Julie Burhop
It has been a fairly slow-growing cancer and I’m
thankful for that, but I also realize that you just
never know and that things can change. I just
hate last minute surprises and as I’ve gotten older
I just like to be prepared… even if that means
being prepared for the worst!
Dr. Matthews has always been honest with
me and he told me that my cancer isn’t curable
but it is treatable. You really don’t know what that
means right away… but eventually it sinks in. I’ve
been in treatment now since 2009 and I know that
it is the treatment that is keeping me alive… and
that’s okay!
I’ll get chemo for a stretch in order to control
or reduce the cancer and then they put me on a
hormone receptor so that my body can recover
and I’ll do that until I need to go back on chemo.
I’ve been fortunate because the treatments have
been working. I’ve actually been off of chemo
since March and that’s been nice. I know that
eventually I’ll have to go back on chemo so I’m
really enjoying things now! You just really learn to
appreciate things more and you look at things
differently. I really appreciate waking up and
feeling good and I don’t mind doing my
housework when I’m feeling this good. It’s just a
whole different attitude you have when you feel
good, especially knowing that it may not last.
(Cont’d from pg. 4)
___________________________________________
I had a mastectomy and scheduled
appointments with two different oncologists… but
when I met Dr. Matthews I immediately liked him
and cancelled my appointment with the other
doctor. Initially, I had twelve rounds of chemo
(one round per month for a year).
A different kind of terribleness!
After my initial year of treatment I did the
usual follow up with Dr. Matthews… but in the
summer of 2009, fourteen years later, it showed
up again! The initial diagnosis and the recurrence
were the same and yet they were different! The
initial diagnosis was just such a huge shock! I
certainly understood that the cancer could come
back and Dr. Matthews even told me that because
of the kind of cancer it was and because of my
young age that there was a really good possibility
that it would come back someday.
I think anyone who is diagnosed with cancer
thinks about it coming back… but you hear all of
these stories of people being cured these days…
and there was a part of me that was hoping I
would be one of the lucky ones. You also hear
the stories of people whose cancer does come
back… and they don’t always end so well, either
because the cancer becomes more aggressive or
is no longer treatable. So I guess I would say that
the recurrence wasn’t as much of a shock… but it
was more devastating. I guess it was a different
kind of terribleness!
Cancer is my something!
I do wonder, sometimes, why me? It’s not
that I feel sorry for myself, because I don’t really
do that. But, honestly, I’ve had somewhat of a
difficult life. Don’t get me wrong, it’s been a
wonderful life and I’m not complaining… but
sometimes I have to wonder, “When is it my
turn?” The only answer I’ve come with, especially
the last couple of years, is that everybody has
something! Maybe it’s a health problem, maybe
it’s a family problem, maybe it’s a financial
problem… but we all have something. I guess
cancer is my something and it sucks!
Older & wiser!
I was so naïve when I was younger and I had
three kids I was raising. The initial shock of
cancer wore off and I just got through that year of
chemo and then I went on with my life. I guess
maybe I’m just smarter now – you know, “older
and wiser!” My philosophy and the way I deal
with this has changed. I sort of plan for the worst
– knowing very well that the worst can happen.
Then, if the worst doesn’t happen, I don’t feel as
devastated. I’m not negative about it… just more
realistic.
I get really panicky and unbelievably nervous
when it comes to scans. In fact, one time Dr.
Matthews told me that I get so nervous that I even
make him nervous! He sees how high my blood
pressure gets and suggests I take Alprazolam.
But after I get the results and I realize that my
worst fears didn’t come true I am usually relieved.
There is so much that I am grateful for!
I have a really supportive family; my kids, my
mom, my brothers and sister; they would do
anything for me. Like the one day I was having a
down day and I ran into my brother at the grocery
store. He could tell I was tired and almost in tears
so he invited me out for dinner! Those are the
kinds of things that mean so much to me. Then
there are the times when my mom or my sister will
come over and offer to vacuum or clean or help
me out. I’ll usually say, “No… I want to do it!”
They don’t always get it… but I WANT to do these
things myself because I still CAN do these things
5
time talking about it! I’ve even gone to some of
the support groups (“Survivorship Sessions”) and
they have been interesting and fun as well.
myself. Things may not always get done as
fast… but they get done… and it’s good for me to
do them! But I know they mean well and they are
there for me if I need them and that means so
much.
This cancer thing is a learning experience for
the whole family. I try to protect the people
around me because I know they may be hurting
and they try to protect me and help me because
they know that I’m hurting. I’ve talked with my
mom about how hard this is for her to see her
daughter go through something like this.
We’ve always been a close family. Most of
us live within a few blocks of each other. I travel
with my family, I work with my family, and I go out
to eat with my family. I have a few good friends…
but my family is the biggest part of my life. Maybe
this cancer has made us all just a little more
aware of the importance of family.
I’m really glad I have a job… and so grateful
that the people I work for at Alpine Insulation
accommodate my situation! That just really
makes going through something like this a lot
easier. I can’t imagine going through something
like this and then worrying what’s going to happen
if I can’t come in to work because I’m not feeling
well or because I have a doctor’s appointment.
There have been times, especially after longer
rounds of chemo, when I would make so many
mistakes… you know, “chemo brain… but they
are so understanding and they realize I just have
off days. I certainly don’t take advantage of that
because I value having a purpose and goals in my
life… and my job provides some of that for me…
and it gives me a sense of normalcy.
(Note from Tim: Join us for our current “Survivorship
Through the Lens” Workshop currently in progress –
Contact Tim at 920-458-7433.)
So much has changed.
When I first went through treatment in 1995
Dr. Matthews was in the Medical Arts building on
Superior Avenue. I remember feeling sick even
before I walked through the door. Maybe the antinausea medications weren’t as effective back
then… but I think part of it was psychological too.
I just dreaded going for chemo then! But now
things are so much better.
Patients are treated more effectively with
fluids and growth factors… and the experience in
the treatment room is so much nicer. I really don’t
mind being in the treatment room. In fact, I sort of
enjoy it. There is a special bond that you develop
with others who are going through treatment. You
meet people who are on the same cycle as you
and you get to know them. Like Amy Uraynar
(previous survivor spotlight). I am so glad I got to
meet her and she is a great gal. We were always
pulling for each other… so when she got good
news… we all got good news! And the nurses are
wonderful!
Cancer is still a terrible thing to go through…
but I don’t think some of the newer patients really
appreciate how much better things are today than
they were just twenty years ago… and that is
something that I really appreciate!
My advice to a new cancer survivor:
Have hope! Just don’t throw in the towel. I
have met people who tell me, “If I ever get cancer
I’m not going through chemo!” I don’t get that at
all!!! I think human instinct is to fight to stay
alive… and maybe they would change their mind
if they are ever in that situation. Besides, chemo
isn’t the most horrendous thing in the world. It
isn’t always fun… but you can get through it. You
never really know what it’s like until you
experience it. When I compare my first treatment
back in 1995 to now… it is so much better and I’m
sure that things will only get better!
Do the stuff you have always wanted to do
but never did! One of my goals was to go to
Hawaii and I did that in May and I just got back
from Alaska in August! I had to work hard to do it.
Do what you need to do in order to do what you
really want to do! I felt so good after those trips!!!
My next goal is to go to Europe! I really like to
travel and it gives me a goal to work towards. I
We all know we have something in common!
I attended a meeting with other cancer
patients back in 1995 but all they did was talk
about their cancer and their tumor markers and
how terrible things were… blah-blah-blah-blah!
After that I decided I’d never go to a support
group again. I would always see the newsletters
in the waiting area but I was always a little afraid
to pick it up because I don’t want to read about
the “doom & gloom” of cancer. So I guess I never
really realized all that was being offered. Then I
saw the “Survivorship Through the Lens” flyer in
the exam room and that caught my attention. I
have always enjoyed photography and I really
enjoyed the sessions. After that I started
participating in other things. The game night was
awesome and kayaking on the Sheboygan River
was great! We all know that we have something
in common (the cancer), and we talk about it
when it comes up… but we don’t spend the entire
6
typically go on a cruise about every year. It’s
what I love and I work hard to be able to do it.
And try to live as normal of a life as you can.
Keep working if you can and try to keep doing
what you did before cancer. Even if you don’t feel
like it. You will feel better about your situation.
There is life with cancer. There is always
hope. And, believe me, you can get through it!
________________________________________
Varsity Team (30-minutes or more of moderate
intensity activity 5 days or more per week):
Terri Y., Karen S., Diane M., Tim R., Carrie G.,
Cindy B., Barb B., Karen A., Dan K., Candy M.,
Tony L, Leah H., Monica W.,
Junior Varsity Team (30-minutes or more of
moderate intensity activity 3-4 days per week):
Felicia S., Judy K., Carolyn E., Lori P., Janet S.,
Stacy J., Kathy B., Mary Ellen S..
ACTIVE SURVIVORS OF SHEBOYGAN:
Currently “Trying Out” for the team: (first
three months of participation):
Lenny B., Beth S., Karen R.
Exercising Good
Judgment: Become
an A.S.S. (Active
I invited the “Active Survivors of Sheboygan” and
“Survive, Thrive & Be Fit” survivor/athletes to
share how they have benefitted from any of the
many activities and here is what they said:
Survivor of Sheboygan)!
“When I participate in the local cancer community
activities I really feel good. After a couple of years of
enduring surgeries and treatment, I feel that I am
taking control of my body again and increasing my
strength and energy levels. I now realize how
important these activities are to reaching an optimal
recovery.” – Felicia S.
We all know that exercise is good for us. And
yet, according to statistics, less than 5% of adults
participate in 30 minutes of physical activity each
day!
Many who undergo grueling cancer treatment
become less active and gain weight and,
according statistics, few will return to their prediagnosis body weight or activity level. That may
be cause for concern since studies of several
different cancers have revealed that being
inactive or overweight after completing treatment
was associated with shorter survival times and a
higher risk of recurrence.
There is an abundance of evidence to
support that those cancer patients and survivors
who are more active and participate in a regular
exercise program can not only eliminate or reduce
various treatment-related side effects and improve
their quality of life but may also prevent the
cancer from recurring.
Congratulations to the current team of 24
“Active Survivors of Sheboygan” who are
exercising good judgment by incorporating
moderate exercise and activity into their treatment
plan while encouraging and supporting their fellow
cancer survivors to do the same!
To earn a spot on the Active Survivors of
Sheboygan Team (and an official A.S.S. shirt),
survivor athletes must meet exercise and activity
requirements for three consecutive months (and
must continue to meet those requirements to
maintain their spot on the team)!
Please join me in recognizing and
congratulating our current Active Survivors of
Sheboygan Team:
“Having fun while staying fit and getting to do it with a
great group of people.” – Candy M.
“I am amazed at what I can actually do compared to
what I thought I could do. I feel accomplishment, pride,
camaraderie and sore feet!” – Janet S.
“To die as healthy as possible – that is my goal so I
can enjoy an active life until the end.” – Christel S.
“I’m not just a survivor; I’m an ACTIVE SURVIVOR! I
have moved beyond cancer to become the person I am
today because I’m involved, active and thriving as a
result. Being with other active survivors is motivating
and uplifting.” – Terri Y.
“Interaction with a great group of folks. More flexibility
(I went from none to some) from yoga. Opportunity to
try different activities outside of the norm.” – Beth S.
“Feeling healthier and friendship with other members.”
– Karen A.
“Doing yoga with other cancer survivors, those in
treatment and others, is so rewarding. I feel a special
bond with all who participate.” – Bonnie G.
“One of the highlights of the summer for me was my
little kayak trip on the Sheboygan River with the
SCCCF. I absolutely LOVED it!!! – Chris L.
“The benefits I have received from the Survive, Thrive
& Be Fit program is simple. I feel better and stronger –
both physically and emotionally. The Active Survivors
of Sheboygan team has allowed many of us to be
supportive to others as well as receiving friendship and
encouragement. Now that’s a “Win-Win!” – Cindy B.
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SURVIVOR SPOTLIGHT:
Dennis Brand
There’s Nothing Wrong With Slowing Down!
Almost everybody I talked to after they retired
has said, “I don’t know how I got everything done
while I was working.” It’s not that after you retire
you have more to do… I think you just slow down
so it takes you longer to do things. It takes you
longer to get up in the morning. It takes you
longer to finish breakfast. You walk slower so it
takes you longer to get where you’re going. It just
takes longer to do everything. That’s not a bad
thing… there’s nothing wrong with slowing down!
Don’t get me wrong, I still get plenty
frustrated when I can’t do the things I want to do.
But you just can’t give up… you gotta keep trying.
I’ve always been a tough old bird. Just ask some
of my customers. If they notice that I’m tired or
not moving as fast they’ll say, “Acchh… you’re too
darn ornery to die!” They’re probably right! I tell
them, “Yep… I’m not ready to die yet… I still
haven’t pissed off enough people!” 
(Cont’d from pg. 4)
Things Are Going Okay!
In 2010 I had skin cancer removed and a few
months ago they removed two more cancerous
lesions. But that hasn’t been bad. Dr. Bettag
explained that they caught the skin cancer early…
but if it would have been more progressed, like
stage IV, I might not want to buy too many green
bananas. I like that about Dr. Bettag… he speaks
in plain English! So it wasn’t good news when
they told me my prostate cancer is stage IV. But
things are going okay.
One of the worst symptoms has been back
pain. Last summer it got so bad that I couldn’t
golf. Dr. Bettag told me that he would have me
back on the golf course by fall… and he did!!! But
it was tough! I was taking about 20 pills a day,
mostly for the pain. I was also being treated with
radiation so I was taking pills so I wouldn’t get
sick. Then I had to take more pills so I could
poop. I had to take pills for this and pills for that.
It was terrible. Then I lost my appetite and lost
almost fifty pounds.
Now I am on some experimental drugs. I can
still golf and that means a lot to me. I don’t have
much pain when I’m golfing… but after golf the
pain comes back but I try to manage the pain
without taking too many pain pills. I don’t like
taking pills. I’m starting to lose my appetite
again… but there are certain things that I really
like… and those things I can gobble down!
I’m Still Fighting!
Some people might hear, “You have Stave IV
cancer!” and just give up right away. Too many
people find out they have something wrong with
them and they just crawl in a corner and wait to
die. Not me. You gotta keep fighting. No one
ever said life was going to be easy… it’s just the
way it is! I may not be as tough as I once was…
but I’m still fighting!
Listen To Your Doctor!
I have a lot of customers that come in and
complain because they have this wrong with them
or they have that wrong with them. But then they
don’t take their pills and they don’t listen to their
doctor. If they would actually listen to their
doctors and do what their doctors tell them… I
think they would be better off! I guess some
people just want something to complain about!
Why Do Bad Things Happen to Good People?
I guess the good Lord just makes it that way.
I’m a church-going person and I guess he’s just
testing me to see if I’m going to jump ship or not!
I don’t know, I guess God does everything for a
reason but I sure as heck haven’t found a reason
for this. But that’s okay. If He wants me to know
I’ll know! Maybe this is his way of keeping me
from getting into trouble… because, God knows,
I’m too darn tired to get into trouble! 
I just can’t do all of the things I want to do or
all the things I used to do. I just get tired. I golf in
the morning, then I might tend bar for a few hours.
After that I head upstairs and take a nap in my
lazy boy. Then I’m okay. I can’t do as much
anymore and it takes longer for me to do
everything. Part of that, I know, comes with
age… so I can’t blame it all on the prostate
cancer.
Everyone Has Been Just Wonderful!
I have to thank everyone at Dr. Bettag’s office
because they have been great… from the front
desk, to the gal who takes my blood; to the
nurses… everyone has been just wonderful!
Same thing with everyone with St. Nicholas
Hospital Radiation. I’ve gotten great care but it’s
the little things that I remember… like the time I
got off the table after radiation and was a little
tipsy. One of the gals just grabbed me and said,
“Oh, I just wanted to hug you!”
I was never sick in my life… until all of this!
I always had perfect attendance and never
missed work. Sure, I had chicken pox and
mumps and measles when I was a kid. And I
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broke both of my arms at the same time when I
was in fifth grade. How? I was just putting on my
boots, lost my balance, and landed the wrong way
and broke both arms. I guess I’m making up for it
now!
still here! It’s another day! Don’t mope around or
sit around and not do anything… do what you can
and keep fighting.
Just don’t give up. Do what you can do. And
trust your doctors. That’s all you can do.
I have cancer but I’m enjoying life!
If I ever can’t play golf anymore… or if I can’t
do other things that I enjoy… then I don’t know.
I’ll cross that bridge when I get there. You just
can’t think about it all of the time… just say it aint
there.
I didn’t golf until I met my wife Peg about
twenty years ago. When we first met she asked,
“Do you golf?” and I said, “I’m not going to chase
a silly white ball around a cornfield!” Then she
said, “Well, then you’ll be spending plenty of time
alone at home.” So I bought a pair of clubs and I
started to golf. What do I like about golf? The
aggravation!  That and those occasional good
shots… those are what keep me coming back! I
know I can’t golf like I used to… not that I ever
was a great golfer. The ball doesn’t go as far…
but because I can’t hit it as far it actually goes
straighter! So, in a way, everything balances out.
It’s funny… I never really was able to golf 18
holes on a regular basis. When I was younger
there were times I just didn’t have the money…
and when I had the money I didn’t have the time.
Now I have the money and I have the time… but I
just don’t have the energy and I’m too tired to golf
18 holes… but I’m happy golfing 9 so I guess it all
works out. Playing these games has kept my
mind going, it’s a great way to socialize, and it
keeps me feeling young! I’m happy at the age
that I am and I certainly wouldn’t want to be 25
again! I’ve had my fun in my days… and I was a
holy terror… but I’ve really enjoyed the later years
of life and I’m okay with slowing down. I’m 66
now. I’m happy that I’m at the age I am. I have
cancer but I’m enjoying life.
Note from Tim: As I said… there are many more
comments from Dennis that I could share with
you… but I think this “short & sweet” spotlight
represents him well. There are, however, two
comments that he made that I want to end with.
This first one references those valuable treatment
books that have become so meaningful to so
many of you as you’ve gone through treatment:
I’ve got everything in here. Not just my
doctors’ appointments but EVERYTHING! See…
here you are (he points to this specific day in his
calendar book where he has written our
appointment time), and here is my next doctor
appointment, and here I am getting an oil change,
and here I am getting my hair cut. I carry this
book with me wherever I go!
Note from Tim: This final comment is one that I
want to share with you just to make you laugh…
knowing quite well that Dennis appreciates a good
laugh:
They told me I might lose my hair. Like I give
a sh#@ about that. I go to my barber every four
weeks not because I need a haircut but just to
aggravate my barber! You know, if I lose all of my
hair, I would still go to my barber and that would
really aggravate him! 
___________________________________________
WHAT ARE THE CHANCES?
You Light Up My
Life!
By Felicia Shaw
Just be happy!
I would say that I am a people person and I
enjoy people. My customers might call me a
crabby a$$ bartender but that’s because I like to
give them a hard time and I think they enjoy that.
Peg will tell people, “If he’s not giving you a hard
time… then he probably doesn’t like you.” I enjoy
joking around with people. I think you have to be
able to take a joke and you have to be able to
give a joke. When I play the crabby a$$
bartender, people know that I’m just messing with
them. But, really, I’m a happy-go-lucky-guy!
Just be happy! When you wake up in the
morning and get out of bed just be glad you are
Liang ji
“Good Chance”
“Good Opportunity”
“It is during our
darkest moments that
we must focus to see
the light.” ~Aristotle
Aristotle may have been born in 384 B.C., but
for any of us who have dealt with a cancer
diagnosis this quote has great significance, even
if it is 2,398 years since his birth. Light to any
survivor is the glimmer of hope that we can live
another day, survive the side effects of our
treatment, and maybe even be lucky enough to
beat this dreaded condition. I recall quite vividly
going through each chemo and radiation
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treatment. While I look back on it now I visualize a
dark tunnel and the little light in the distance was
sometimes the next minute that I was trying to
reach, or the next hour or day. It kept me totally in
the moment. I couldn’t think ahead too much. I
just couldn’t handle it.
As we complete treatment and move on in
our understanding of what survivorship actually
means, how many of us slip back into that dark
tunnel again, desperately trying to focus on that
little glimmer of light that can bring us back to fully
living again? Every time I am scheduled for that
dreaded scan I find I am right back in the
treatment moment again. Perhaps I physically feel
alright, but emotionally I can’t help but be worried.
Here comes that dark place again. I hesitate to
feel too positive just in case I am wrong and hear
bad news. I want to be prepared. I don’t let myself
feel what it will be like if I hear everything looks
fine. It seems dangerous to be too positive.
Having just completed one of these dark
rounds, I chatted briefly with Tim after hearing
good news. I was relieved but mentioned my
“dark place” from which I had just emerged.
Standing in the light of day Tim offered that
perhaps I think about it too much. Well, there is a
whole lot of truth to that idea. I have certainly
been known to ruminate over things that bother
me.
I went home and thought some more about
what Tim said and how I was handling this yearly
testing event. I started to read some of the
material that I have on gratitude and appreciation
that I haven’t reviewed in a while. While I like to
think about being grateful and appreciating where
I am, (considering things could be much worse), I
just really lost touch with that for the past week or
so. Thinking about “what if” isn’t the greatest brain
food for a cancer survivor. Practicing gratitude
and appreciation for our experience is a great
mental tool that helps us focus on the good stuff
of life instead of what if. That light we focus on
should be the spotlight on good things and good
people.
When a person goes into “worry” mode, they
become a threat to their own peace of mind. I just
wore myself out with worry the past few days so I
am speaking from recent experience. Instead of
looking at things through worried eyes it would
have been more positive to keep the grateful lens
working. If we turn on the gratitude it becomes a
habit. When I travel to that dark place, I turn off
the resources and the people who help me face
my health issues positively. This preoccupation
with self isn’t very productive. Seeing things with
grateful eyes helps us to see the interconnection
with other survivors. It helps us to see that we can
be receivers when we need a hand and givers
when someone needs our hand. It keeps us
positively energized and less worried about what
tomorrow may have in store for us.
A really great way to practice being thankful
and grateful is through participation in activities
with other survivors. Look over the activities of the
Local Cancer Community if you are looking for a
way to express your gratitude and appreciation for
life. I can tell you that the folks who participate
glow with gratitude. There are so many great and
varied activities and participating really helps you
say thank-you for life. These activities are part of
the light that Aristotle mentions and give us
another way to register something good and
positive in our brains. When things seem a little
difficult, we can draw on those positive brain
memories to get us through with less worry and
trauma.
I am thankful for all of the folks that I have
had the occasion to meet at the activities I have
attended. The exercise or the activity provides a
way to reframe any loss I have experienced into a
gain. The energy I receive gives me an
understanding of the power that my mind has to
transform the obstacle in front of me into a chance
to live again.
________________________________________
SURVIVING & THRIVING!
TLC Survivor
Exhibit “People’s
Choice” Awards
Winners (& More)!
Congratulations to all who participated in this
year’s TLC “Celebrating Survivorship - Survivor
Exhibit” this past June:
People’s Choice Award Winners:
1st Place: Gene Mathes: Wood Carving & More!
2nd Place: Myron Lapean: Outdoor Photography!
3rd Place: Ernie Meise: Teddy Bear Collection!
Pat Fields: The Amazing Little Scrubby!
Tim E. Renzelmann: My Tools of Active Living!
Janet Sampson: Bottles & More!
Mary Ellen Schmidley: Untitled
Survivorship Through the Lens: A Few Photos!
Active Survivors of Sheboygan: A Few Stories!
Note from Tim: Here are two stories from the Active
Survivors of Sheboygan display written by A.S.S.
10
members Felicia Shaw and Karen Alsteen who hope to
motivate and encourage other cancer patients and
survivors to get more “active” in the local cancer
community!
We thought that might be interesting to find out
more. I was afraid to go at first but I put on my
shoes and off I went with my trusty soles. We
found out all kinds of adventures we could go to.
First we joined the “Active Survivors of
Sheboygan” Group, then we gave the Sheboygan
Community Recreation Department’s “Couch to
Two Miles” class a try. We meet all kinds of new
friends and we found out we really could run two
miles. We went to The Freedom Run. Then we
tried the Acuity Health Challenge and the Turkey
Trot. Me and my soles were still looking for
adventure so we tried the LIVESTRONG program
at the YMCA. We meet more new friends and
have fun sampling all the different things the
YMCA has to offer. Me and my soles also took a
little trip to the open house at the South High
School Fitness Center. They had equipment me
and my soles could try too. When my shoes were
on a little break this winter, my boots gave hiking
and snowshoeing a try. It was fun to go out and
explore and see the tracks left by the deer, turkey,
and rabbits. We are not fast or speedy. We just
go out and keep moving. You never know what
the next adventure will bring you. I don’t know
how many miles we’ve travelled on our journey or
how many more we will travel in the future, but it
has been fun and rewarding. Come join our gang
and maybe you will find me and my trusty soles.
________________________________________
________________________________________
What Does Being An
A.S.S. Mean to Me?
By Felicia Shaw
As we move through and
complete treatment, sometimes it is difficult to get
back to our active selves. Let’s face it; the
regimen can take a lot out of a person. While we
get back to the things that we have to do like
family obligations and perhaps a job, sometimes
we neglect to contemplate what even more
activity could do to help us gain back our strength
and positive outlook on life.
I finally started saying “yes” to some of the
A.S.S. (Active Survivors of Sheboygan) activities
at the beginning of this year. First it was yoga,
and then I saw all the folks around me going to
the YMCA and making efforts to become more
active. What an inspiration they all are! I found
myself doing more and more exercise and
physical activity and I feel better than ever. It not
only helps a person physically, but mentally and
spiritually as well. Participating with people who
have gone through the whole cancer thing brings
a special bond and feeling of support that is
comforting.
There are so many opportunities to get
involved in, whether with the A.S.S. group or in
any pursuit that you find interesting. Recently, I
have gotten back into doing some gardening
which I have not shown an interest in for quite
some time. I am pleasantly surprised at how
much I am enjoying it again and how much I am
getting done in the yard as well. Open yourself up
to some activity and I promise it will make you feel
great and give you motivation to do even more!
Being an A.S.S. can be a very good thing; who
knew?
________________________________________
Things You Should Know About
The Sheboygan
County Cancer
Care Fund!
(Part 1 of 2)!
By Tim E. Renzlemann
I really can’t tell you exactly when the notion
of what has become The Sheboygan County
Cancer Care Fund came to be… that is a
question that only Dr. Matthews can answer. It
was an idea that, he explained to me, was
harboring in his mind for many years but he didn’t
have the luxury of time to turn it into reality. Then,
in March of 2000 when I joined the clinic staff, he
passed his idea on to me along with the resources
to make it happen.
We began as a group of concerned
community members who had an interest in
improving the quality of life for local cancer
Me and My Soles
By Karen Alsteen
Me and my soles have
been busy. First we
decided we need to do
something to start moving.
We hear they were starting
a group called “Active Survivors of Sheboygan.”
11
patients and survivors. Many of those same
individuals that gathered for the first time fourteen
years ago continue to sit on the organization’s
board of directors today. Next, we created a
simple mission statement: “The Sheboygan
County Cancer Care Fund, Inc. (SCCCF) is
dedicated to improving the health, well-being, and
quality of life for individuals and families of
Sheboygan County who have been diagnosed
with cancer or a disease of the blood. It is our
hope to provide care to all in our community who
are experiencing these diseases, even if a cure is
not possible.”
How did we plan on fulfilling this mission?
Simple! We would accept, review, approve and
grant requests for financial assistance (what we
call “gestures”) from eligible individuals (those
who reside in Sheboygan County and/or are being
treated in Sheboygan County who have been
diagnosed with cancer or a disease of the blood)
in an effort to assist them with the financial
challenges of their disease.
When I think back to my pre-cancer days I
was often attracted to those cancer charities that
touted their efforts towards a cure. I may have
had selfish intentions knowing that if a cure were
found I wouldn’t have to worry about it. But, as I
went through my own cancer experience I learned
that the hope for a cure can easily be
overshadowed by more immediate fears and
concerns of day-to-day life.
For me, the worst came in 1998. It was six
years after my initial diagnosis and almost two
years after my first recurrence. I was already
financially-stressed from previous and current
medical bills and facing the scary prospect of a
bone marrow transplant that was sure to result in
additional expenses and lost wages, all while
trying to pay the bills, put food on the table, and
provide my young family with the things they both
needed and desired.
I assure you, I am not complaining! I am so
very grateful for the successful outcome that I
have experienced and for the past sixteen years
(and counting) of disease-free living! It has,
indeed, been PRICELESS! Nevertheless, it has
come at a very real price to my family and me.
But any life-saving treatment is a really good
bargain… even of it comes at a cost equal to
one’s life savings!
I was (and am) fortunate! You see, I had the
love and support of a beautiful and hard-working
wife, two amazing parents, a caring family, many
kind friends and a supportive community that
helped us through those difficult times. I don’t
know what I would have done without them. But I
realize that not everyone is as fortunate. So,
when Dr. Matthews handed his idea over to me, I
understood the need for such a fund as well as its
value and potential perhaps as well as anyone
could! It is because of my own experiences that I
am so passionate about SCCCF and its mission
and why I am willing to do almost anything (from
cleaning toilets to shaving my legs – both of which
I have done) for the fund!
By 2001 The Sheboygan County Cancer
Care Fund incorporated and was approved by the
IRS as a 501(c)(3) charitable organization which
allowed us to begin accepting tax-deductible
donations from the public. Then, on June 25th of
2002, we offered our first financial “gesture” - a
$250 COBRA premium to a patient unable to work
due to her illness. By the end of that first year we
approved a modest $2,042 in financial “gestures.”
As the years passed, more people learned
about our unique organization and its profoundly
simple approach to helping those in our own
community with cancer. As more people heard
about us more money came our way. As more
money came our way we received more requests.
Since 2009 we have been approving well over
$100,000 a year in direct financial assistance to
local cancer patients and survivors and I expect
that within the next year or so we will reach the
$1,000,000 mark in approved “gestures.” But, if
you ask me, SCCCF has been a million dollar
idea from the very beginning!!! 
Considering the tremendous financial burden
that often accompanies a cancer diagnosis it can
be challenging to manage the limited funds that
come our way. The organization’s decisions are
governed by several philosophies that have
evolved over the years and that I would like to
share with you.
Small “gestures” can make a big difference!
SCCCF is a relatively small fund, averaging
only about $120,000 in annual donations in recent
years. As grateful as we are to the community for
their generous support, we realize that we cannot
address all of the financial needs of all of
Sheboygan County’s cancer survivors.
Nevertheless, the smallest “gesture” can make
the biggest difference. A review of recent
activities indicates that the average approved
financial “gesture” is worth about $315. That
doesn’t sound like much considering the high cost
of cancer care… but consider these words of
thanks from some who have benefitted:
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“I want to thank you for the financial help with
paying a couple of bills for me and my family. We
are truly grateful and feel very blessed for the help
from our friends, families, and those we don’t
even know yet give because they care.”
assistance any individual can receive (currently
set at $2,500 but can fluctuate based on dollars
available) over a two-year period. It has been
only on rare occasion that the limit has been
exceeded (and requires approval by the full
SCCCF board of directors). This allows us to
“spread the care” and offer help to many instead
of only a few. Additionally, we consider the fund
to be a limited-time, temporary or short-term
resource of financial assistance for applicants.
“Sitting in my second round of chemo today I
am so thankful to everyone responsible for this
kind gesture. I can’t tell you what a wonderful,
caring and loving concern I felt from The
Sheboygan County Cancer Care Fund when I
received the check. I love my wig.”
Eligibility Requirements:
In addition to having a confirmed diagnosis,
applicants must either reside in Sheboygan
County and/or receive their primary cancer care in
Sheboygan County to be eligible for assistance
and services. Additionally, they may be asked to
disclose their out-of-pocket expenses related to
their diagnosis and/or treatment and the extent to
which those expenses have impacted their quality
of life and/or living conditions.
We certainly understand that the needs of
cancer patients can be very unique from person to
person and we try our best to address the unique
individual needs. As a result, we do not have
strict criteria for which the funds can or cannot be
used. Instead, individual approvals are based on
common sense, good reason and fiscal
responsibility.
Some of the most common requests that we
receive are for assistance with treatment-related
expenses (medications, medical devices, dental
procedures, wigs) and basic living expenses (rent,
utilities, COBRA premiums, insurance premiums,
transportation and nutritional needs). But that is
not to say we don’t consider the more unique
requests such as that of an elderly lady on a
limited income who spent a lot of time in the
hospital and was concerned about the care of her
pet. We granted approval for a modest amount to
be applied to her doggy daycare bill.
It may surprise some to know that SCCCF
has a policy that prohibits payment to local cancer
clinics or hospitals (this includes: Matthews
Oncology Associates, Sheboygan Cancer & Blood
Specialists, Vince Lombardi Cancer Clinic, St.
Nicholas Hospital and Aurora Sheboygan
Memorial Medical Center). This policy is based
on the rationale that these organizations have
internal mechanisms in place to assist those
patients with substantial financial obligations.
Additionally, SCCCF has representatives from
these organizations on our board of directors and
we want to diligently avoid any perceived or
possible conflict of interest. We will, however,
“Due to cancer and the subsequent
operations I have lost the ability to speak clearly.
Therefore, I cannot call you on the telephone to
thank you for what you and your organization
have done for me. Hence, this letter. I really
appreciate your time and the money is close to
being a life saver so, THANK YOU VERY MUCH!”
“It is with my deepest appreciation that I
thank you for the assistance I’ve received over the
last couple of months. Words simply cannot
express how truly grateful I am. Because of the
SCCCF, patients like myself are able to go
through the process with some relief knowing
there is such a caring and supportive organization
willing to help. I’m thrilled to share that I’ve now
completed treatment and can move on to the next
chapter of my life.”
“Thank you very much for your generous
monetary/financial assistance which was applied
to my insurance/COBRA premiums. Your
kindness and assistance means so much (to me
and my family) and is greatly appreciated. I
commend your organization for reaching out and
touching so many lives in Sheboygan County.”
“We would like to thank you for your very
generous help with our unexpected medication
expenses due to my cancer. It helped ease some
of the stress in these very difficult times. Yours is
a wonderful organization that is a real blessing in
this community!”
Spread the Care by Offering Help to Many!
Knowing that it is impossible to address or
alleviate all of the financial needs of area cancer
patients, we have adopted a philosophy of helping
as many cancer patients and survivors as we can
with more modest financial “gestures.” Some
individuals and families may receive multiple
“gestures.” According to recent activity, the
average total financial assistance granted to an
individual in a year is about $700. We have
established guidelines that limit how much
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consider these medical bills when approving other
eligible expenses.
It’s pretty much common sense… however;
there are times when I am reminded that common
sense isn’t always so common!  On one
occasion I received a request from a cancer
survivor with what I would consider a fairly
uneventful history (early diagnosis, minimal
treatment, no discernible side effects) who was
many years out of treatment and under no
apparent distress. The request was for us to send
the survivor and the family (including aunts,
uncles, nieces and nephews; eleven individuals in
all) to Disneyworld in Florida (including airline
tickets, hotel and admission tickets). When I
called to explain that we wouldn’t be able to
approve the request, the individual remarked, “I
thought you were here to help cancer survivors!”
Then hung up on me! On another occasion I
received a request to assist with a grocery bill for
a patient in active treatment on a limited income.
I explained that we could cover most of the food
items but would not cover the cost of lottery
tickets, alcohol or cigarettes, to which came the
response, “Well… what good are you!?!”
Sometimes, I guess, all you can do is laugh! 
Fundraising Events & Activities: Thanks to the
organizers, volunteers, sponsors, donors and
participants who support these and many other
area fundraisers that benefits The Sheboygan
County Cancer Care Fund!
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Another Way to Fulfill Our Mission
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We all know there is more to life than money!
Likewise, there is more to SCCCF than providing
financial “gestures.” In the next issue of this
newsletter I will tell you more about some of
SCCCF’s other services including the Survive,
Thrive & Be Fit Program, Massage & Reiki for
Cancer Patients & Survivors, and more! In the
meantime, I encourage you to visit SCCCF’s
redesigned website (www.scccf.org) or contact
me to learn more!

Giving Credit Where Credit Is Due!


Of course, let’s not forget that none of this
would be possible without the generous financial
support SCCCF receives from so many people
and organizations! I don’t think it would be
possible to thank everyone that has supported the
efforts of SCCCF through their financial
donations, their time, their talents and their efforts,
but if I take a look over the past year or so… here
is just a sampling of those who have given so
much in so many different ways to SCCCF and
have allowed us to do the work that we do (This is
by no means an all-inclusive list and I apologize to
the many who have supported the fund but are
not listed here):










14
Unity Music Festival with special thanks to
Mary Ann Waldbauer (Annually in April)
Putting for Pink / Cruising for a Cure with
special thanks to Sunset Hills Golf Course
(Annually in August)
Hunting for a Cure with special thanks to
John Uttech (Annually in January)
2014 Lakeland College/Sheboygan
Symphony Orchestra “Movers & Shakers”
Fundraiser with special thanks to dance
performers Rodney Ellison & Dr. Ashok Rai
who represented SCCCF
Pink in the Drink All-Women Fishing Derby
with special thanks to Suscha’s Bar (Annually
in July)
Route 43 Harley Davidson “Ride to
Survive” (Annually in July)
Bob Rammer Jr. Memorial Golf Classic
(Annually in June)
Sheboygan Falls Chamber of Commerce
Main Street “Ladies Night Out” (Annually in
October)
Flowers for the Fund (Annually in April/May)
Cancer Crusade (Annually in October
(formerly “March of the Pink Brigade) and
coming up on Saturday, October 18th)
Fashion for Hope Style Show with special
thanks to Kacia (NOTE: due to a variety of
factors, the Fashion for Hope Style Show will
not be happening in 2014 but we are hopeful
for a successful return in 2015 – please
contact me if you would like to get involved in
this event)
Kohler Power Cook Book Sale
Sheboygan Softball Association Cancer
Benefit Tournament
Sheboygan Jaycess “Tourney of Taverns”
Farnsworth Middle School Fundraiser
UAW Local 833 Brat Fry
Sargento Family Picnic
Sargento Employee Fundraiser
Pick ‘n Save Employee Brat Fry
Entourage Salon & Spa Cancer Fundraiser
Howards Grove High School Volleyball
Team “Pink Out”
The Sheboygan Police Golf Outing
Sheboygan Falls High School Baseball
“Coaches vs. Cancer”


The Sports Core “Fighting Cancer with
Insanity”
Pink Heals of Sheboygan County
to do my best for the local cancer community for
as long as such an opportunity exists and I invite
and encourage you to get involved and join our
efforts as a participant, a volunteer, a supporter or
a donor.
________________________________________
Please go to www.scccf.org and sign up for “The
Local Cancer Community Update” to receive
weekly reminders of events and activities
(including fundraisers to benefit SCCCF) or watch
the “News/Events” page for announcements! And
if you have an upcoming fundraiser that will
benefit SCCCF and/or the local cancer
community… please contact me!
The Best Way to
Stay Connected
with The Local
Cancer Community!
Supporting Organizations
 Acuity Foundation
 Kohler Company & Associates
 Nemschoff
 Sartori Foods
 Merkel Foundation Donation
 J.L. French
 Entourage Salon & Spa
 CPN Hair Design
 Aurora Health Care Employee Partnership
Campaign
 Dr. Matthews/Matthews Oncology Associates
 Dr. Bettag/Sheboygan Cancer & Blood
Specialists
 Thrivent Financial Services
 Kettle Moraine Corvette Club
There really is a lot of good stuff happening in
“The Local Cancer Community!” And as our local
cancer community has grown and evolved… it
has become increasingly more challenging to
keep everyone informed about upcoming events
and activities. Well, thanks to Pattie Pilz of n-site
designs in Plymouth, The Sheboygan County
Cancer Care Fund has a redesigned website that
can be a valuable resource and an effective tool
that can keep all of us in the local cancer
community better connected!
I urge you to check out our website at
www.scccf.org and sign up for “The Local Cancer
Community Update” through which you will
receive weekly e-mails announcing survivor
activities, fundraising events and news and
information about to the local cancer community.
Simply visit our website and click on the
“Newsletter” icon to complete the sign-up process
and I encourage you to regularly visit the
“News/Events” page of the site where you can
learn about upcoming survivor activities,
fundraising events and read the most recent
issues of “The Local Cancer Community Update.”
________________________________________
Concerned & Supportive Community Members
 Ann & Ben Salzman
 Carolyn Neerhof
 Richard & Sharon Zimbal
 Jim & Phyllis Schnettler
 Tom & Dawn Zimbal
 Michael Walton
 Dave Zoch
Memorial Funds & Donations:
 Jeff Christel Memorial Funds
 Michael Haupt Memorial Funds
 George Sippel Memorial Funds
 Donald Gessler Memorial Funds
 Paul Notz Memorial Funds
 Helen Papendieck Memorial Funds
 Andy Smies Memorial Funds
 Kevin Covey Memorial Funds
 Delmar Schuler Memorial Funds
 Marvin Meinnert Memorial Funds
 Frank Yinko Memorial Funds
ABOUT THIS ISSUE’S TITLE QUOTE:
“Getting the wind knocked out of you
is the only way to remind your lungs
how much they like the taste of air.”
– Sarah Kay, Spoken Word Poet
It is a wonderful quote from one of my favorite
“Ted Talks” that has received almost 7 million
views! Here the rest of what she has to say at:
https://www.ted.com/talks/sarah_kay_if_i_should_
have_a_daughter. It’s well worth it!!!
I feel both honored and privileged to serve the
local cancer community through The Sheboygan
County Cancer Care Fund and I am proud of what
have accomplished. Furthermore, I will continue
15
SPECIAL SPOTLIGHT:
Julie Burhop
SURVIVOR SPOTLIGHT:
Dennis Brand
(Photo from pg. 4)
(Photo from pg. 4)
Julie Burhop, Cancer Survivor
Dennis Brand, Cancer Survivor
JOIN the TLC/SCCCF Local Cancer Community e-mail Update list:
To have this newsletter delivered to your home or e-mail account and receive regular e-mail
updates related to the local cancer community go to www.scccf.org and click on the
NEWSLETTER
icon (or :contact Tim)!
SURVIVOR
SPOTLIGHT
Suggestions
or ideas for Sheboygan’s Local Cancer Community:
Dennis Brand
(Cont’d
from
pg. 4)
If you
have
any
suggestion or ideas for the TLC Supportive Newsletter and/or any of our
Survivor and Co-survivor events and activities or would like to learn more about or get
involved in The Sheboygan County Cancer Care Fund, please contact Tim.
Tim E. Renzelmann
Patient Advocate / Cancer Coach - Matthews Oncology Associates / Sheboygan Cancer & Blood Specialists
Vice President - The Sheboygan County Cancer Care Fund
920-458-7433 / 920-457-2223 (920-45-SCCCF)
trenzelmann@physhealthnet.com
16
MATTHEWS
ONCOLOGY
ASSOCIATES
Together we
Live with
Cancer!
SHEBOYGAN
CANCER & BLOOD
SPECIALISTS
The TLC Supportive Community!
TLC (Together we Live with Cancer) is a
“Supportive Community” that provides cancer survivors,
their families, friends and caregivers with health and
wellness opportunities for body, mind, heart and spirit!
TLC “Supportive Newsletter” (Quarterly)
This supportive newsletter is sent FREE (via e-mail or postal mail) to any
area cancer survivor. To be added to our mailing see contact info below.
TLC “Survivorship Sessions” (Monthly)
These “Survivorship Sessions” are open to anyone experiencing cancer
looking for or willing to offer support, encouragement, information and
guidance related to the cancer experience. Meets on the 3rd Tuesday of the
month at 6:00PM.
TLC “Survivorship Can Be Fun” Gatherings
These periodic gatherings offer opportunities for cancer survivors to meet
and connect with other cancer survivors in a fun and casual setting that
focuses on life beyond a cancer diagnosis.
The Local Cancer Community Update
To receive regular e-mail updates on events, activities and opportunities in
the local cancer community sign up go to www.scccf.org and click on the
“NEWSLETTER” icon or use the contact information below.
Tim E. Renzelmann
 Matthews Oncology Associates  Sheboygan Cancer & Blood Specialists 
 The Sheboygan County Cancer Care Fund 
 1621 N. Taylor Drive, Sheboygan  920.458.7433  920.457.2223 
 e-mail: trenzelmann@physhealthnet.com 
UPCOMING EVENTS – FALL, 2014
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Together we
Live with
Cancer!
TLC is a “Supportive Community” for cancer survivors & co-survivors (families,
friends and caregivers). TLC is offered by Matthews Oncology Associates and
Sheboygan Cancer & Blood Specialists. For more information on the TLC
Supportive Community contact Tim at 920-458-7433 or 920-457-2223; e-mail:
trenzelmann@physhealthnet.com or visit The Sheboygan County Cancer Care
Fund’s website (www.scccf.org) and click on “News/Events”.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
TLC “Survivorship Sessions”: Conversations for Survivors & Co-Survivors
All Sessions Held at MOA/SCBS, 1621 N. Taylor Drive, Sheboygan, 2 nd Floor Conference Room
All area cancer survivors and their family and friends are invited to join us for these casual sessions as
together we explore the many facets of living through a cancer diagnosis, its treatment and beyond.
We can all use a little extra TLC! Snacks and beverages are provided.
Tuesday, September 16th at 6:00PM
St. Nicholas Hospital Oncology Rehab Program!
Guest Speaker: Tracy Dumke, OTR, CLT, CKTP (St. Nicholas Hospital and Prevea Therapy)
Tuesday, October 21st at 6:00PM
The Role of the Patient Navigator!
Guest Speaker: Sara Kaffine, RN (St. Nicholas Hospital Nurse Navigator)
Tuesday, November 18th at 6:00PM
Healthy Eating for the Holidays!
Guest Speaker: Lisa Funk, RD (MOA/SCBS Patient Nutritionist)
Tuesday, December 16th at 6:00PM
Year End Gathering: A Look Back, A Look Ahead!
Featuring: Photos & Stories of the year gone by and thoughts and ideas about the year to come!
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
St. Nicholas Hospital: Supporting Someone with Cancer – What to Say and Do
Thursday, October 9th from 6:00 to 7:30PM in the MOA/SCBS 2nd Floor Conference Room.
TLC “Survivorship Can Be Fun” Game Night – Variations of Yacht (Yahtzee)!
Wednesday, December 3rd from 5PM to 8PM in the MOA/SCBS 2nd Floor Conference Room.
SCCCF “Survivorship Through the Lens” Workshop Sessions!
On-going Fall Class – You are invited to join us for our next session (contact Tim)!
SCCCF “Gentle Yoga for Cancer Survivors” Monday Night Class!
Monday Nights Through December 15th at 5:30P in the MOA/SCBS 2nd Floor Conference Room
SCCCF “Active Survivors of Sheboygan” Team Talk (All Are Welcome)!
Mondays, September 29th at 6:45PM (following SCCCF’s “Monday Night Yoga).
SCCCF “Cancer Crusade” Fun Run/Walk (5th Annual) – FREE!
Saturday, October 19th from 7AM to 10AM with 9AM Group Start. Sheboygan YMCA
SCCCF “Steps to Survivorship” Riverfront Romp!
Wednesday, November 12th. 1st Walk at 4:30P. 2nd Walk at 5:30P. Sheboygan Riverfront.
SCCCF “Active Survivors of Sheboygan” Team Talks (All Are Welcome)!
Mondays, December 15th at 6:45PM (following SCCCF’s “Monday Night Yoga).
FOR THE MOST CURRENT EVENTS & INFORMATION:
Go to The Sheboygan County Cancer Care Fund’s website (www.scccf.org) and click on
the “News/Events” tab. Better yet, to be sure you get the latest scoop on event and
activities simply click on the “NEWSLETTER” icon and sign up to receive weekly “Local
Cancer Community Updates” via e-mail!
T
ogether we
S
MATTHEWS
C
&B
ONCOLOGY
L
ive with
S
A
Cancer!
“Survivorship Session”
SSOCIATES
HEBOYGAN
ANCER
LOOD
PECIALISTS
St. Nicholas Hospital’s
“Oncology Rehab Program”!
Tuesday, September 16th at 6:00 PM
Tracy Dumke, OTR, CLT, CKTP; Occupational Therapist
with St. Nicholas Hospital and Prevea Therapy will discuss
the many possible benefits of oncology rehab: decrease
pain; lessen fatigue; improve balance and walking; increase
energy and endurance; promote strength; manage swelling
from lymphedema; improve swallowing and eating; improve
speech problems; encourage a return to previous activities
at home or at work; assist with memory, concentration and
other problems; improve mood and quality of life and more.
RSVP Always Appreciated!
Light Lunch Provided!
(Feel free to bring a dish to pass!)
LOCATION:
Matthews Oncology Associates  Sheboygan Cancer & Blood Specialists
1621 N. Taylor Drive, Sheboygan  Second Floor Conference Room
 Call 920-458-7433 (Ask for Tim) for more information! 
“Survive, Thrive & Be Fit!”
Steps to
Survivorship!
Kohler Andrae State Park
(State Park Admission Fee/Sticker Required)
Friday, September 19th
Saturday, September 20th
6PM – Sunset Hike on the Cordwalk!
6AM – Sunrise Hike on the Cordwalk!
8PM – Nature Trail at Night! (bring a light)
8AM – Morning Trail Hike!
9PM – Campfire at the TeePee!
10AM – Morning Trail Run/Jog or Walk!
To RSVP and for meeting locations and details contact Tim:
920.458.7433 or trenzelmann@physhealthnet.com
Join us as, together, we take “Steps to Survivorship”!
 Water & snacks provided 
 Rain or shine… dress appropriately 
 Pedometers available for all cancer survivors 
 “Survivorship Through the Lens” Participants – bring your cameras 
 If interested in an overnight stay in the TeePee, contact Tim 
“Survive, Thrive & Be Fit!”
Gentle Yoga for
Cancer Survivors!
Monday Nights at 5:30PM
September 15th through December 15th
MOA/SCBS 2nd Floor Conference Room
Area cancer survivors are encouraged to experience
the benefits of this gentle yoga program! These FREE
sessions will include gentle stretching, breathing and
meditation to bring some peace, healing and relaxation
to the mind and body.
New this fall is an (optional) ½-hour advanced yoga
session following our regular session on the first
Monday of each month!
Unable to attend on Monday nights? Or interested in practicing more
than one night a week? Ask about how you can practice at other
participating yoga studios (including Midwest Power Yoga, Sheboygan Falls;
Peacefield Yoga, Sheboygan; Plymouth Yoga, Plymouth; Yoga on the Lake,
Kohler; Yoga Loft, Sheboygan) at no cost or a reduced fee!
For More Info or to Register Call 920-457-2223
Brought to you by:
Become an Active Survivor of Sheboygan
and “Exercise” Your Right to Survive!
Talk to Tim (920-458-7433) for Details!
Special financial
consideration by:
supporting someone with cancer – what to say and do
The diagnosis of cancer is life-changing, not only for the individual diagnosed but
also for the parent, grandparent, friend, neighbor and others who support that individual.
This presentation will focus on what you can do to help a child or adult with cancer.
Thursday, October 9, 6-7:30 p.m.
Medical Specialties Building, 1621 N Taylor Drive, 2nd floor Conference Room
Presenters: Mary Schueller, RN and Pat Smith, MSW
Register online at https://www.stnicholashospital.org/communityedclasses.php
or call (920) 459-4636
Free, light refreshments
will be served
one family of care
SURVIVORSHIP
THROUGH THE LENS
SESSION TWO: Tuesday,
October 14th at 5:30PM
Other Classroom Sessions Will Be Scheduled!
First Field Trip (optional): September 19th & 20th!
Has cancer altered the way you see the world?
Back for a SECOND YEAR! Join us for this FREE outdoor digital photography
workshop! Reflect on your cancer journey as you get outdoors and look through
the lens of a camera, learn digital photography basics and connect with other
cancer survivors. No experience is required and any digital camera will do (a cell
phone camera or any point & shoot camera is all you need).
With Returning Featured Photographer:
Tom Friederichs
About Tom Friedrichs: Tom bought his first SLR camera in 1983 and discovered that the combination of
photography and an interest in the outdoors is a perfect match. Having a camera along while hiking,
canoeing, and cross country skiing provided never-ending opportunities to capture images of nature at its
best. Tom soon joined the Sheboygan Camera Club whose membership has been an excellent source of
instruction and ideas. It wasn’t long before photography became Tom’s main motivation to get outdoors. He
has learned that photography will challenge you, and can be both rewarding and frustrating at the same time.
Photography is more than just a hobby; it is therapy, it is education; it can involve sport, culture, or art.
Photography is for any age and for any lifestyle. Add it to your bucket list.
Registration REQUIRED by Wednesday, September 3rd!
Register by calling Tim at 920-458-7433
Classroom/Sharing Sessions will be held in the MOA/SCBS
second floor conference room, 1621 N. Taylor Dr., Sheboygan
2014 Cancer Crusade
(Formerly “March of the Pink Brigade”)
Saturday, October 18th, 2014
7:00 AM to 10:00 AM - Sheboygan YMCA
Waiver: In consideration of the acceptance of my entry in the SCCCF Cancer Crusade on October 18 th, 2014, I release the Sheboygan
County Cancer Care Fund, Sheboygan County YMCA, Sheboygan Area School District, Sheboygan County, City of Sheboygan and any
other entities and individuals who are in any way connected with the event (including event volunteers) from any liability or claims for
any injury or illness which I sustain during my participation in this event or which is in any other way related to this event. I
understand that this release is being relied upon by the persons permitting me to participate. I hereby grant full permission to any and
all of the foregoing to use any photographs, videotapes, recordings or any other record of this event for any legitimate purpose.
________________________________
Print Name
________________________________
Address
______________________________________
Participant’s Signature
________/________/________
Participant’s Date of Birth
_________________
Date
__________________
City/State/Zip
____________
Phone
_________________________________________
Parent/Guardian Signature (if entrant is a minor)
______________________________________________________
E-mail Address
I am a cancer survivor:
 YES  NO
Commemorative Moisture-Wicking T-shirt: $15 guaranteed on 10/18 if post-marked before 10/1 (add $5 after 10/1).
 Small
 Medium
 Large
 X-Large
 XX-Large (add $5)
 XXX-Large (add $5)
Biggest Brigade Team Name: _________________________________________________________________________________
Note: If registering as a “Biggest Brigade” team, please insure all participants register together or list the same team name!

The first 150 participants to register (with or without T-shirt order) will receive a FREE pedometer!
Please send form with payment to “SCCCF – Cancer Crusade”, 1621 N. Taylor Drive, Sheboygan, WI 53081
2014 Cancer Crusade
(Formerly “March of the Pink Brigade”)
Saturday, October 18th, 2014
7:00 AM to 10:00 AM - Sheboygan YMCA
Waiver: In consideration of the acceptance of my entry in the SCCCF Cancer Crusade on October 18 th, 2014, I release the Sheboygan
County Cancer Care Fund, Sheboygan County YMCA, Sheboygan Area School District, Sheboygan County, City of Sheboygan and any
other entities and individuals who are in any way connected with the event (including event volunteers) from any liability or claims for
any injury or illness which I sustain during my participation in this event or which is in any other way related to this event. I
understand that this release is being relied upon by the persons permitting me to participate. I hereby grant full permission to any and
all of the foregoing to use any photographs, videotapes, recordings or any other record of this event for any legitimate purpose.
________________________________
Print Name
________________________________
Address
______________________________________
Participant’s Signature
________/________/________
Participant’s Date of Birth
_________________
Date
__________________
City/State/Zip
____________
Phone
_________________________________________
Parent/Guardian Signature (if entrant is a minor)
______________________________________________________
E-mail Address
I am a cancer survivor:
 YES  NO
Commemorative Moisture-Wicking T-shirt: $15 guaranteed on 10/18 if post-marked before 10/1 (add $5 after 10/1).
 Small
 Medium
 Large
 X-Large
 XX-Large (add $5)
 XXX-Large (add $5)
Biggest Brigade Team Name: _________________________________________________________________________________
Note: If registering as a “Biggest Brigade” team, please insure all participants register together or list the same team name!

The first 150 participants to register (with or without T-shirt order) will receive a FREE pedometer!
Please send form with payment to “SCCCF – Cancer Crusade”, 1621 N. Taylor Drive, Sheboygan, WI 53081
T
ogether we
S
MATTHEWS
C
&B
ONCOLOGY
L
ive with
S
A
Cancer!
“Survivorship Session”
SSOCIATES
HEBOYGAN
ANCER
LOOD
PECIALISTS
The Role of the
Patient Navigator!
Tuesday, October 21st at 6:00 PM
Sara Kaffine, RN, OCN, Patient Navigator at St. Nicholas
Hospital will join us to explain her unique role that is
designed to guide cancer patients medically, emotionally and
spiritually through each step of the cancer process by:






Educating patients and loved ones about their cancer diagnosis.
Answering questions about their cancer care.
Connecting them with helpful resources along their journey.
Guiding and empowering survivors as they make decisions.
Assisting with practical care concerns.
Advocating for patients during treatment.
RSVP Always Appreciated!
Light Lunch Provided!
(Feel free to bring a dish to pass!)
LOCATION:
Matthews Oncology Associates  Sheboygan Cancer & Blood Specialists
1621 N. Taylor Drive, Sheboygan  Second Floor Conference Room
 Call 920-458-7433 (Ask for Tim) for more information! 

TLC (Together we Live with Cancer!) Supportive Newsletter

Transcription

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