I Am Doing Great - Just Like You!

Nice One!

2008-01-12T15:53:00.000-08:00

You can be fully satisfied with where you are, understanding that you're eternally evolving. When you get into that place of feeling appreciation of where you are and of who you are, and appreciation of what you are, and you accept that you are a never-ending, always unfolding Being, then you can stand in that delicate balance of being optimistic about what is to come, without being unhappy about where you stand. Find a way of eagerly anticipating future changes, while at the same time you are in love and satisfied with who, what, where and how you be.
Abraham-Hicks

Reggae Evolution - Best of 2007 Show

2007-12-27T08:56:00.001-08:00

Jah Ray and I have joined forces for the Best of 2007 show and it will air on Tuesday, January 1, 2008 from 7-10 PM on KAZI 88.7 FM. We have picked out the very best tunes for the year so I hope you can tune in.

If you missed the show, you can download it here: Music4Life Podcast.

DJ-RJ

Relay For Life

2007-12-16T22:47:00.000-08:00

We have started a team at the radio station to raise money for Relay For Life in April.

My Reason to Relay is to join people around the world in celebrating those who have survived cancer and supporting the lifesaving mission of the American Cancer Society.

Please make a donation to me or join my team. You are helping deliver the hope that future generations will not have to endure cancer threatening the lives of their friends and family. We have the power to fight back against a disease that has affected me and millions of others.

RELAY FOR LIFE

Thank you!

RJ

Year End

2007-12-14T20:46:00.000-08:00

Well, I am happy to say I have no foreign items protruding from my body. I have healed from my two recent surgeries and I have lots of energy.

I am looking to rock some Christmas parties if anybody is interested. Let me know!

RJ
973-8686

More Victory, More Love

2007-11-27T22:01:00.000-08:00

Well today I had that catheter taken out of my shoulder and what a relief that is. It's buried under the bandages, so maybe it hasn't fully set in yet that it is really gone. I imagine in a few days I will get to see what it looks like when I unveil it. The doctor had mercy on me and only charged me half-price, so I give thanks for that blessing.

Went tonight to my friend Jason's birthday celebration at Momo's. I heard a great band named Suzanna Choffel. They were quite soulful and sweet vocals that reminded me a bit of Nelly Furtado. The drummer had a hilarious 70s wig on and the keyboard player's dog wandered off and onstage while they were playing. Check them out.

Just started reading my 2nd book by Paul Ferrini this week and he is just amazing! Teaching me moreso that LOVE is what we should all be doing with everyone that we meet and not worrying about what we perceive to be wrong with people and judging them. Read his Mastery Prayer.

Let us all remember how loved and blessed we are to be alive right now.

DJ-RJ
ps: From his 12 Guidelines:
Experience your equality with every person you meet. If you think or feel that you are "less than" or "more than" another person, understand that fear is present. Take a deep breath and be aware of the fear and the unworthiness behind it. Then bring love and compassion to yourself.

Surgery Went Well

2007-11-13T09:41:00.001-08:00

I am at home recovering from surgery. Mom and I went for breakfast after we got out. I was a lil groggy and didn't eat much. I had the tube removed almost 5 months to the day of having it put in. So happy to have it out!!!!!

Great!!!!

2007-11-12T11:50:00.000-08:00

Today is the last day of having the feeding tube in!!!! I can't wait to get this thing removed tomorrow morning. Mom will be taking me bright and early at 6AM. Should be back home by 9:30 or so.

Next Wednesday, I will go see Dr Ashworth and have the port-a-cath removed from my shoulder.

Life just continues to get better for me and I am so thankful for this opportunity to have life!

RJ

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Now playing: Abjeez - Nasle Man

Two New Interviews

2007-11-08T20:49:00.000-08:00

Two great reggae artists, one from Germany and one from Ohio plus you can hear me playing drums too on one of them. Hope you dig these:

Music4Life Podcast

Bless You in all that you do!

DJ-RJ

Makes Me Wonder...

2007-11-06T09:26:00.000-08:00

Other studies have found that electromagnetic waves from mobile phones may affect people's health. A preventative medicine team led by Prof. Choi Jae-wook of Korea University surveyed 177 brain cancer patients admitted to the hospital in 2005. In 137 or 77.4 percent of the patients the cancer was located near the spot where the patient held their mobile phone.

"People who held their mobile phones to their right ears got cancer on the right side of the brain, and those who used the left ear got cancer on the left side of the brain," said Yoon Song-yi, one of the team's researchers. "It's too early to conclude that the way they used their mobile phones increased their risk of getting cancer. The final results will come by the end of the year."

http://english.chosun.com/w21data/html/news/200711/200711050007.html

My cancer was in the left side of my mouth, the same side I always have the cell phone on.

RJ

Saturday Update

2007-11-03T11:21:00.000-07:00

Lots of things happening this week!

I went golfing yesterday with Will and we played at Hancock and had a great time. It was a perfectly beautiful day too.

The other big news is that I have scheduled the removal of my Gtube for November 13th. My prayer is that I can find a way to pay for the facility. Last time I was fortunate to only have to pay $1,000. Maybe they will give me the same deal again and an angel will help me come up with that amount.

Still more big news is Anne and I joined Lifetime Fitness and we will be working out together and getting fit. The place is just amazing! Check it out, north and south locations.

Gotta get ready for my gig today. Enjoy this lovely weather!

Peace to you!

RJ

Lucky Dube

2007-10-18T19:38:00.000-07:00

I just found out Lucky Dube was shot and killed this evening. He was the biggest reggae star from South Africa. I met him once after a show at Liberty Lunch, and he was a kind loving man.

I will do a tribute to him on my reggae program on KAZI 88.7 FM between 7 and 10 pm.

With lyrics like these his music will keep touching many hearts for years to come:

When you flash that badge
You want everyone to shiver
When you flash that badge
You want everyone to worship you
I got no time to worship human kind
I only worship the All Mighty
Through his prophets I have learned
To give respect to everything he created
I give love to those who gimme love
Love those who gimme war
I love those who hate me
I bless even those who curse me year x 2

Chorus
Gimme gimme respect
Show me show me respect.

You could be the president
You could be his deputy
You don't even have to know
My political affiliation
You don't even have to know
My religious affiliation
Respect me, for who I am
And not what I am
Nobody even cares about your dollars
Nobody even cares about your bling bling

Give love to those who give you love
Love to those who hate you
Bless even those who curse you, yeah x 2

Chorus
Gimme respect

Tennessee Update

2007-10-17T12:40:00.000-07:00

Dad and I got to play 18 holes of golf today and it was fun. Reminds me that I need to play more often. Here's Dad:

The trees here are changing and it is beautiful. Haven't seen too much yet. Took it real easy yesterday. Went with dad to his bowling league last night. Got to meet the whole team. Nice guys:

More later...

RJ

On The Road Again...

2007-10-15T10:53:00.000-07:00

The last week has been incerdible. Did radio on Monday and Tuesday. Wednesday I got to play drums with Lion Head at Flamingo. We did a 2 hour set and I don't know how I was able to pull it off still. I had a great time though! Got to be creative and take the music to some cool places. Ras Jorge played bass and we figured that we hadn't played together in about 17 years or so since the old Root 1 days. Here we are (thanks to Debbie for taking the shots):

Here I am playing and to my surprise singing too. I was able to hit some notes:

Did my usual thing at Sacred Shelf on Thursday. Mostly took it easy on Friday and then Saturday had a planning session with a couple and went to mom's church fall-fest after that. Saturday night, I got to open again for Ricardo Lemvo & Makina Loca. They blew me away again as they have every time! Such incredible African and Latin music! Anne and Alex went and we all danced and enjoyed the vibes.

Here is a video clip I shot of the incredible drummer:

Friday night got to play dress up:

Sunday I played a wedding in Georgetown which went very well other than when it rained on the dancefloor. We moved the dancefloor to the covered area and it was fine.

Today is Monday and I am getting ready to get on a plane to Tennessee to see my dad and spend some time up there. Flying in to Nashville and then driving over to Fairfield Glade. I hope to take some pictures while I am there.

Have a blessed week!

RJ

Great Swing Music

2007-10-07T08:45:00.000-07:00

Mom, Lori and I went to see A Ride With Bob Friday night at Paramount Theatre. It was a play that told the story of Bob Wills written by Ray Benson of Asleep At The Wheel. The music was incredible and the actors were great too. Learned a lot about Bob's life and what he went through.

I was really impressed by The Quebe Sisters, who my sister had seen a few weeks ago in Ft Worth. These 3 young sisters play fiddle and sing like The Andrews Sisters. Simply amazing! We go to meet them and buy a CD. Quite impressive to see so much talent! Check them out!

Last night I performed at a wonderful wedding at Great Hills Country Club. The dancefloor was full almost the whole night. Got a chance to play some cumbias for a change and enjoyed that. They also had mariachis and a Dragon Dancer that was very cool.

RJ

October 13th - Will You Come Celebrate With Me?

2007-10-02T12:36:00.000-07:00

I am really excited about this show!!!!! Come out and celebrate with me and dance your butt off!!

RJ

On Saturday October 13th, Flamingo Cantina continues its exploration of international flair as Ricardo Lemvo and Makina Loca fuses an entire diaspora’s worth of influence to a chassis of Afro-Cuban origin. Born in the Congo of Angolan ancestry, Ricardo Lemvo formed Makina Loca 17 years ago in Los Angeles and the 10-piece band quickly attracted worldwide attention with their seamless blend of Cuban son montuno and Zairean soukous. With Lemvo fluently singing in each of Spanish, Lingala, Kikongo, French, English, and Portuguese, a Makina Loca set conjures exotic travel as an escape route from American cultural isolation. Promoting its fifth album titled Isabela after Lemvo’s newborn daughter, Makina Loca expects to open the hearts of those long-due for the Cuban clave’ rhythm to act as their Afro-Latin tour guide.

DJ-RJ opens the show with a hot mix of salsa, merengue, bachata, reggaeton and more.

Doors at 8:30 p.m. Cover is $12/$14; tickets are available at End of an Ear Records located at 2209 S 1st St and Flamingo Cantina located at 515 E. Sixth Street, venue phone 512/494-9336. www.flamingocantina.com.

Good News!!!!!

2007-09-28T15:20:00.001-07:00

My first CT scan results came back today and no cancer !

YEAH!!!!!!!

RJ

Closer To Thee

2007-09-27T23:23:00.000-07:00

I discovered a CD today called Grace by Snatam Kaur while working at the bookstore. Or maybe it discovered me? She sings the Sikh devotional music, Kirtan and I am totally blown away! I digest a lot of music and not many things have this kind of effect on me. I have been listening to it all day while driving around and it brings me closer to God. The pure love and joy put into these recordings sinks deep into your soul. It keeps you in such a high place that you will feel the effects and stay in a loving mind-state after enjoying it. I'm sure this won't be my last CD of hers.

Thank you Snatam for the beautiful gifts you give us.

Check her out!

DJ-RJ

Updates - Flying Solo (NOT so low)

2007-09-26T15:34:00.000-07:00

Hey amigos!

I am having a great Wednesday here as the beats keep rolling...

I got my CT Scan done today in Round Rock. My doc will get the results tomorrow. Not sure when they will trickle down my way. I have an appointment to see my doc on October 5th. Hopefully I will know before then.

On Sunday, I did my first wedding by myself with no MC to run the mic. My voice wasn't great, but sufficient to get it done.

Kris Brown has been here for the last two days doing overdubs on the Iginga album project. It's coming along nicely.

I have been able to eat a bit here and there. Lo-mein with tofu seems to go down pretty easily and it is tasty!

Gotta get back to my laundry.

Love to all of you !!!!!

RJ

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Now playing: TC - Flatline
via FoxyTunes

Sacred Shelf

2007-09-17T21:04:00.000-07:00

I trained today with Barry at the bookstore and it was great. We had some great reasoning and I picked up on things pretty quick. We have great things for gifts: cards, awesome books and CDs and lots of cool stuff. I will be here on Thursdays and my first day will be this Thursday from 10a-2p. Come by and see me and say hello and pick up something for those you love.

We're inside Unity Center at 9603 Dessau Rd.

RJ

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Now playing: Liquid Mind (Chuck Wild) - I Am Willing
via FoxyTunes

Big Weekend

2007-09-16T22:30:00.000-07:00

This was a busy weekend for me! Almost like my normal life used to be...

Friday night, Anne and I went out to see Stephen Marley & Zap Mama at Emo's. Stephen Marley was as I had expected. Zap Mama, however, blew me away! They're from Belgium and they played so many styles of music with incredible female harmonies. From funk, hip-hop, reggae, rock, African music, latin and all very tightly executed.

Check them out: Zap Mama

Saturday night I did a wedding out in Buda at Kali-Kate with DJ Ted and it was great. Ceremony was flawless and Ted's humor on the mic really made for a nice evening.

Today was a huge day for me. Had a great morning at church. I volunteered to help out at Sacred Shelf, which is our awesome bookstore. I am excited to begin training and learn more about all the great books, CDs and things we sell, plus getting to know more of our members. I will be there on Thursdays from 10-2pm.

I went out with some friends to Mongolian BBQ and I got a plate of food and was able to eat about half of it. It was so tasty! Onions, tofu, veggies, and even iced tea!

After that I went home and took a nap and then went to see Anne & Kalaiah. We hung out and Anne cooked a real nice meal with an awesome smokey seitan that was tasty! She also made a soup which I had two bowls of. Very tasty!

Interesting that my sense of smell has become much more sensitive since I've gone through this. Food is tasting great and I am truly savoring it.

RJ

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Now playing: Alaine - Rise In Love
via FoxyTunes

Riding

2007-09-14T14:57:00.000-07:00

My friend Greg and I went for a bike ride today around the hood. He said we went about 5 miles. It felt great and hot!

Ripping a bunch of CDs to the computer today getting ready for a wedding gig tomorrow in Buda.

Have yerself a blessed lil weekend!!!

RJ

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Now playing: Kenny "Babyface" Edmonds - Fire And Rain
via FoxyTunes

A Month Later - Feeling Good

2007-09-13T21:00:00.000-07:00

It has been 4 weeks today since I finished my radiation treatments at Tx Oncology. I felt great today and got out and enjoyed the sunshine.

I am still not eating solid food yet and I miss it so much. I did eat half a Pringle this week! I also gained almost 5 pounds back so I am celebrating that. I have not been able to talk much this week due to my tongue being so tore up still. I could go on and on and I won't. Just know that I am healing in God's time and I just have to be patient and I am.

One way I have been enduring is by watching lots of movies. A friend turned me on to Trusted Opinion, where you can join and see what movies I have been watching and rate your own too. It's a social network kinda site and it's also tied in to Netflix for those of you doing that.

Have a good day!

RJ

To be upset over what you don't have is to waste what you do have.
~Ken S. Keyes, Jr., Handbook to Higher Consciousness

A Prayer

2007-09-12T16:36:00.000-07:00

"Dear God,

What would You have me do today?
I am listening in the silence of meditation.
How can I help the world?
I accept the inheritance You have offered me.
I accept the tasks that are mine to do.
Work through me that all might be filled with love and joy.
Now is the time for love and I am willing.
Thank You. Amen "

--by Ric Beattie

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Now playing: Ras Shiloh - Give A Little Love
via FoxyTunes

Doctor Says...

2007-09-05T10:45:00.000-07:00

No more chemo!!!!

I went to see him yesterday and he says I am doing better than he expected. Went out to eat last night and it was hard for me to eat. My tongue is torn up and I think since I have been speaking again that maybe the sharp edges of my teeth are contributing to it. Just a theory of course.

Watched Monster last night and the acting was incredible!

Excited about starting a new recording project today.

RJ

There are no accidents... there is only some purpose that we haven't yet understood.
~Deepak Chopra

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Now playing: Machel Montano - Band Of The Year (B.O.D.Y.) Road Mix
via FoxyTunes

COFFEE!!!!!

2007-09-03T13:54:00.000-07:00

Oh the little things, how special they are! I went to Starbuck's today and drank a nice latte! It was so tasty, I savored every drop. What a nice Labor Day this has been!

RJ

FOOD!!!!!

2007-08-31T22:37:00.000-07:00

I was able to eat some tofu and veggies tonight at a Vietnamese restaurant! It was an amazing moment and quite emotional for me when I realized I was actually able to eat food again. All I could do was give thanks for the ability to be able to eat something through my mouth again.

RJ

On The Air Tonight

2007-08-28T12:48:00.000-07:00

Hope you can join me tonight as I make my return to the airwaves with some fresh new reggae sounds for you. I am looking forward to it!

Reggae Evolution on KAZI 88.7 FM 7-10 PM

There is an open invitation to anybody who wants to come by during the show and see the brand new studios that were just finished.

Have a blessed day!

RJ

Good Weekend

2007-08-27T15:13:00.000-07:00

Had a great weekend. On Saturday, I went to KAZI's 25th Anniversary Celebration at the station. I had not been to the station for about 6 weeks, so it was nice to reconnect with my radio family. Lori, John and the boys went along with Anne & Kalaiah. Got to hang out with Anne on Saturday night. We watched a great DVD called The Ultimate Gift. Check it out if you can. Sunday, Alexandra and I went to The Domain, Austin's new urban living and shopping community. What a cool place.

Seems like my hair loss has slowed quite a bit. The saliva and phlegm continue to be my biggest issues to deal with. Other than that I feel pretty good. I have part of my voice back, not full strength though yet.

RJ

What "One Song" Can Do...

2007-08-22T18:01:00.000-07:00

Today, I bumped into a an old song from 2002 that I had not heard in awhile. It was a song called "Music Is Everything" by High Contrast. I played it really loud at least 5 times and it really just lifted my spirits up. That song led me onto iTunes where I did some digging and found some new Drum & Bass songs that took it even higher. High Contrast' "If We Ever" is currently the number one song in the UK on 1Xtra's DnB chart. That one I played loud too and just drank it into my soul. The beautiful strings & piano riffs of the intro are just so sweet. I'm sure I have played it at least 10 times today on this TV-free day. Later I found out that the vocalist on the tune is Diane Charlemagne, who used to be a member of 52nd Street. I used to play their records back in the 80s on my R&B show so that made it even more cool to tie her in.

I discovered Drum & Bass music back in '94 on a trip to London when it was then called 'Jungle.' I've been hooked ever since and occasionally check in to see what is happening with this music. There are many sub-genres of DnB, some with reggae & R&B influences and some that are a little darker and not as accessible for my ears. Much of the stuff I really dig now comes from Hospital Records. It's cool, clean and grooves so hard that my mother says I shouldn't even listen to it while I am recovering. I have to remind her what it means to me and how it helps me keep my vibration high so I can do the healing that must be done.

I just burned it onto CD for the car and I am excited about taking a drive tomorrow. Here is the playlist:

Artist	Name
Nu:Tone	Beliefs
High Contrast	If We Ever
High Contrast	Everything Is Different
Cyantific	Good Weather
Commix	Be True
Blame + The Pedge	Avalon
Apex featuring Ayah	Space Between (Featuring Ayah)
Akira vs. T-Ak featuring Ellie	Change
Akira	Expedition

Check out some of them on iTunes and let me know what one song can do for you. Or maybe you'll come by and I can play them for you?

RJ

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Now playing: High Contrast - If We Ever
via FoxyTunes

Miso Hongry !!!!!

2007-08-21T20:34:00.000-07:00

Well I guess I have to just go ahead and accept the fact that today was a great day for me! I went out to Hutto to see my nephews. We watched the Imax Space Station DVD and hung out for a good portion of the day. I went to the pool with them later and got to take some shots of the kids. While there, I met an amazing 3 year-old boy named Stone who has Downs. He had such a happy spirit that really touched and inspired me. He was a great swimmer too. After that, I went to Zen and got some miso soup. I was actually able to sip some of it before putting it in my tube and also had some water earlier in the day so let's just call this progress and give thanks!

RJ

Over One Big Hump

2007-08-16T20:38:00.000-07:00

I finished radiation today and was showered by confetti by the staff and my family. I gave all of the staff hugs and thanked as best as I could with no voice. I had hoped to feel great today and my body had other plans after a morning feast of phlegm. I got sick right before Mom and I left for treatment. It has been quite a journey and we're not quite finished yet. I have a followup appointment in 6 weeks when I hope to be declared cancer-free. Until then, I guess I am in limbo as I await my body to return to some state of normalcy. Looking forward to a meal of some real food I can put in my mouth and savor. Giving thanks for the healing I am given every day--a gift!

RJ

Good Monday

2007-08-13T16:25:00.000-07:00

Did chemo today and it was easy once the phlegm party in my throat settled down. Slept through most of it until about 1:00 when my uncle David showed up. Got my radiation after that and I only have three more to go! Hard to believe how 8 weeks has just flown by. My neck is healing up incredibly fast from the radiation burns and I am happy about that. Now if I can just get my voice back before Saturday's wedding...

RJ

Almost Done

2007-08-06T16:14:00.000-07:00

Well, apparently there are one or two people that read this thing and every so often they bug me to blog... so I will give some updates about how tings been runnin' lately.

It is now Friday afternoon. Mom and I just returned from Whole Foods and treatment. I thought the day was going well until I very violently threw up everything in my stomach. It was no fun at all. Keep thinking I am getting used to that, and I am not. Still not as bad as the day last week when the docs put me on the Fentanyl patch. It was 50mcg/per hour and way too much for my sensitive system to handle. Threw up 8 times that day trying to get it out of my system. It was pure hell. Seems like there have been those days lately, hence my not blogging. My body is creating so much phlegm and mucus that I don't what to do with it. I wake up around every 20 minutes gagging on it and it's all over the place. Real fun I'm telling you! I'm just glad my body is making saliva and that all the suffering with the Ethyol looks like it paid off.

I have only 4 more radiation treatments to go next week and then I will be on to some serious healing. I may have two additional chemos, I am praying that maybe I won't need them.

I want to thank every person who has helped see me through this. Especially my family, for putting up with me and also Anne. Also, the people who came out to the benefits and pitched in, the bands & DJs who played and also Ruta Maya & Flamingo.

All for now, gotta go lay down and see what's on the tele.

RJ

Benefit this Friday

2007-07-24T12:49:00.001-07:00

I hope those of you who didn't make it out to the last one can make this one. There will be four bands on-stage.

8:00 - reggae DJ (tba)
9:00 - Common Language
10:00 - Three Shoes Posse (with me on drums)
11:30 - Mystic Roots (from California, who usually backs Pato Banton)
1:15 - Crucial Prophets

There will be vendors set up also, including Anne's awesome Threads of Change t-shirts, which are very very comfortable. Healing Is Believing wristbands will also be available and they have been getting a great response from everybody.

Hope you can make it!

Blessings!

RJ

I'm Still Here

2007-07-24T12:31:00.000-07:00

Hey peeps!

Just an update for you on the latest.

Had a great weekend. Went to see Kelly Willis with my sister on Saturday night and they have a tight band fi real. Lori was so excited to meet one of her favorite singers.

Opening the show was Hayes Carll and he was good too, some of his songs were funny. His drummer, Lisa Pankratz is the daughter of Mau Mau Chaplains drummer Mike Pankraatz and she was great too. I had not seen her play in a long time.

Sunday I ran sound at church and struggled to get through the day due to the rawness of my mouth. Luckily on Monday, I got some new drugs, one being a triple mix of liquids that numbs out my mouth when I need it. been doing pain pills as needed also so much better with that now.

Gotta run and get ready for The Dad Show show for tonight which is 6-7 pm on KAZI 88.7.

RJ

"I'm Back And I'm Proud"

2007-07-21T09:59:00.001-07:00

Well I haven't written in awhile. Life has been up and down the last week.

It looks like I am done with eating food through my mouth. Making the transition to the tubular way. Certainly easier that eating with my mouth.

Lots of my hair falling out this week and I am wondering if that is going to slow down, or if I will end up shaving it off. Not sure at this point.

Played with Three Shoes Posse last night at Ron Paul's Austin Presidential Campaign 2008 grand opening. The performance went very well and we had fun.

Off to Kalaiah's birthday party right now.

Thanks again to all of you who have contributed with prayers, financial help and words of encouragement. You can still make donations through TexasReggae.org.

Know that you are blessed in all you do!

RJ

Great Weekend

2007-07-15T07:45:00.000-07:00

This week had a few shaky days due to nausea. It's all been good since Friday. Had a wedding gig out in Liberty Hill last night and had a blast. Congrats to Kaylana & Jason and their whole family. They were some of the sweetest people I have worked with. Excited about the benefit today at Flamingo. Life is so good!

RJ

Birthday Party & Benefit - This Sunday

2007-07-09T12:53:00.001-07:00

Hope you can make it! This is going to be a great event.

BANDS SCHEDULED TO PERFORM:

6:00 - Vida Deluxe
7:30 - Irie Jane
9:00 - Mau Mau Chaplains

Food by Winston's Hot Sauce and Chow Baby, silent auctions and DJs also.

Location is at Flamingo Cantina, 515 E 6th street in downtown Austin.

Thank you all for your support. I really appreciate all of it.

RJ

Monday's Treatment

2007-07-09T12:39:00.001-07:00

Chemo's ok today for the most part. Had a reaction to the Taxell at first. I got 'tomato head' and short of breath for a minute, so they stopped the IV and gave me more Benadryl and Solumedrol (a steroid) and I am fine now. Just doing some work and chilling...

Weekend was great. Got to see Alexandra, Anne, and Kalaiah. Watched a couple of good videos too: DejaVu with Denzell Washington and Dreamland which had some very interesting characters.

Did a wedding Saturday night at The Austin Club. Great venue.

RJ

A Happy Friday

2007-07-06T09:39:00.000-07:00

I took Kytril this morning and returned home from treatment and I am not feeling nauseous at 11:40. Took an Ativan last night and slept great. Looking forward to doing a wedding on Saturday and rocking the house.

RJ

Happy 4th of July

2007-07-04T13:29:00.000-07:00

I had a fever of 101 last night, today my tongue is totally white. So I called my doctor and he said I have Thrush and is prescribing antibiotics. I spent around 16 hours in bed from last night until this morning. Luckily, WalGreens is open and will fill the prescriptions for $163.

Happy Independence Day!

RJ

Our Lovely Healthcare System

2007-07-02T20:48:00.000-07:00

Mom and I went to see SICKO tonight and it is another great piece of work from Mr Moore. He shows how universal healthcare could make this such a better nation. He shows how it is done in the UK, Canada, and France--and it works!

Go see this movie!

Then let's figure out how to vote for somebody who gives a damn to make this happen. We've been hijacked by insurance companies who have bought our politicians. It's so sad, and it doesn't have to be this way.

It just reinforced my lesson earlier in the day. I was speaking with my pharmacist about a different solution for my nausea. I did Compazine and Promethazine last week with mixed results (see Ralph below). It had been suggested that I try Kytril. When I asked her how much they were she told me 20 pills would cost me $600!

My social worker put in an application to see if I can get some help from the drug company. I should find out tomorrow how that will work out.

RJ

Good Monday

2007-07-02T12:47:00.000-07:00

Almost finished with chemo today and it was a breeze. Didn't have any problems at all, other than falling asleep for a minute. My brain woke me up at 5:00 this morning, so I am a little sleepy I guess.

Weekend was great. Got to see Alexandra, Anne and Kalaiah. Rehearsal went well and the doc this morning said I will be fine to perform at the benefit on the 15th. More details coming soon on that.

RJ

Ralph!!!!!

2007-06-28T16:22:00.000-07:00

I met with Dr Chyle this morning and he also noted some change in the primary site in my mouth which made me happy. The shape of the tumor has noticeably changed. Thanks to God!

I took Promethazine this morning before I went to my appointment and I still got nauseous. Made it all the way home and soon as I got in the house--RALPH!!!! It was no fun, though I did feel better after that and slept for almost 6 hours. The pharmacist gave me Lorazepam, which I will try again tomorrow and see how it helps with the situation.

It's 6:30 now and I am having some soup which seems to be settling ok.

RJ

Pills Pills Wonderful Pills

2007-06-28T06:45:00.000-07:00

I spoke with the pharmacy this morning and they are going to switch me from the Compazine to another drug for nausea. The Ethyol causes my stomach to be queasy, so hopefully this does the trick. I am also meeting with Dr Chyle this morning for my weekly visit.

I looked in the mirror this morning and the primary site in my mouth and it looks like it has changed, so that is good news.

Also, I have to take a moment and big up my frined Lisle who has been staying with me since last Friday. He has helped me so much with driving to appointments and telling me some good things that I need to hear. He leaves on Saturday morning...

So much I am thankful for...my family and friends who are pushing me up through these times.

RJ

Tuesday

2007-06-26T20:09:00.000-07:00

Today's treatment was fairly easy. The hardest part was getting the subcutaneous injections of Ethyol in my abdomen. It burned a little going in. Felt a little nauseous afterwards, probably from skipping breakfast. All I had was my protein shake and vitamins. Lessons to learn I guess. I'll do better in the morning.

Did the Dad Show tonight and then met with a client to work on her wedding reception.

RJ

Easy First Day

2007-06-25T21:08:00.000-07:00

So I did the first day of chemo and radiation today and it was easy. Glad I got the port-a-cath put in. Made it much easier to get the IV drugs.

Special thanks to the group of folks who met me at the front door cheering me on. That was a surprise to see. Thank you Lori for putting it together.

We movin' forward!

RJ

Weekend Tings

2007-06-24T13:30:00.000-07:00

Friday's gig at The Wyndham went well. Many of the people left before we finished at 9:00. My friend Lisle is here from Trinidad and he helped me setup and even ran a few tunes.

Last night, Anne was able to loosed up my peg tube and that has provided me with much needed relief as it was pinching my skin and was very uncomfortable.

Had a great morning at church. Got a nice healing session and then lunch at Golden Wok.

Off to rehearsal now...

Wishing you a blessed day !

RJ

Looking Good!

2007-06-21T22:18:00.000-07:00

Went to see Dr Naples for the follow up visit and he said my gums look fine. Also picked up some Compazine and all is ready for treatments to start on Monday.

Let's get it on already!

RJ

On The Air Tonight

2007-06-19T16:55:00.000-07:00

I am doing my first live show tonight on KAZI 88.7 FM from 7-10 PM. The new studio is awesome!

Tune in and enjoy the vibes!

RJ

Today's Visit

2007-06-18T13:50:00.000-07:00

I went to see Trini today at Texas Oncology and get some info on Amifostine. I will be receiving this via injection every day before my radiation treatments to help decrease side effects. I also received a supply of Zyrtec to help prevent rashes, and later this week will receive a supply of Compazine for nausea prevention.

On Thursday, I go to do a followup with Dr Naples so he can bless my gums and teeth before treatment starts next Monday.

RJ

Happy Father's Day

2007-06-17T19:29:00.000-07:00

I hope all of you had a chance today to take a moment and remember the roles that fathers have played in our lives. Every chance I get to spend with mine is very special and I really appreciate those moments as I know I will not always have them.

I worked at church this morning and that was quite a challenge to get up and get ready. I'm still adjusting to the idea of this tube hanging out of my belly. It is quite strange for me. Alexandra reminded me that it's only temporary and I guess I needed to hear that. We had lunch today and it was so nice to spend the time with her!

After that, I went home and my sister came over over with John and the nephews and we all went to grab a bite at Opal Divine's. More good family medicine that was very nice.

Heading to the cancer center in the morning to meet with Trini and get started on some pre-meds.

RJ

"That Was Easy"

2007-06-15T12:18:00.000-07:00

I just got home from surgery and it was very easy. I didn't feel like a zombie when I woke up like last week. So far I feel good. A little tightness in my belly. I can't even feel the port-a-cath yet, maybe due to the local anesthetic.

Mom and Anne went with me. My two little angels.

RJ

We Are Victorious

2007-06-14T17:19:00.000-07:00

To maintain courage and faith is to ensure victory. To believe in one's own victory is to give ourselves the wings and the strength to fly. With just this belief we will have the courage to work on our obstacles with ease and win over them. Before we restart anything that we had failed in before or even when we start a new important task, we need to make sure that we tell ourselves that we are victorious. When we remind ourselves again and again that victory is our birthright, we will automatically get the courage to succeed.

~ Brahma Kumaris, Mt Abu.

FLOride

2007-06-13T21:07:00.000-07:00

I went to see Dr Baines today and got the flouride trays for my teeth. I will have to put those in every night for 20 minutes before I go to sleep. The challenge for me on this one is going to be buying into flouride.

Surgery for the tubes is scheduled for Friday at noon with Dr Ashworth.

Digging in the crates tonight with DJ Fizz looking for some vinyl to move out to pay for some of these loverly Xpenses.

More tomorrow.

RJ

Totally Tubular!!

2007-06-12T20:20:00.001-07:00

So I met with Dr Ashworth this afternoon to see about the next surgery to install the Port-A-Cath and PEG Tube. He was real cool and right around the corner. It will probably happen this week so I will have another thing to recover from. Bring it on I say! I ready to fight dis ting haard!!!

Also, heard from April at Texas Oncology and we are going to get both drugs comped for the chemo treatments. Very good news! Waiting to see about getting the Ethyol comped which will help minimize the damage to my salivary glands. I see it happening so hold that thought for me please!

Thanks to all of you who are reading the blog and praying for me. I really appreciate that!

RJ

Doing Great

2007-06-12T12:25:00.000-07:00

I met with doctor Chyle today and got my mask fitted for radiation. I will have 38 daily treatments beginning on Monday, June 25th. The whole team at Texas Oncology has been great and very personable.

Also, got a Sonicare tootbrush to take of my teeth better during care and afterwards. Thanks Mom!

More later after the GI doc visit...

RJ

OMG, Yummy Wheatgerm!!!!!

2007-06-10T16:09:00.000-07:00

I began taking one of my new supplements today called Avé. The doc said it wouldn't taste good, though it actually isn't that bad. According to the papers that came with it, it does all these amazing wonderful things:

Supports cell metabolic regulatuion (which I obviously need!)

Promotes immune system modulation (oh modulate me baby!)

Maintains healthy cellular & humoral immune balance (I need more humor in my life--fo sho!)

It's only $124 for a 30 day supply, so order now. I'm sure their operators are standing by!

Mom made me take off the hillbilly music and now we're listening to Dale & Grace, sippin' a cup o' Avé. Life is good!!!!

RJ
PS: we need some more participation in the comments. Come on kids, we're having fun here! Play along with Uncle Winky.

Ho Hum... Sunday...

2007-06-10T15:45:00.000-07:00

I just awoke from a nice afternoon nap. My body said sleep and so I listened. It was good. Still have lots of swelling going on. Was mixing at Unity this morning with a bag of ice in one hand. Mom has been here all afternoon and organizing the kitchen details. She loves this ole hillbilly music I'm playing off iTunes radio. Tee hee... more later my friends...

RJ

Chewing...

2007-06-09T09:50:00.000-07:00

I think I have taken chewing for granted for all of my life. Last night I discovered how blessed I have been to be able to chew my food. The first solid food I ate last night was a Cliff Bar which are probably my favorite food bars. It usually takes just a minute or two to eat one. Last night it took me 15 minutes to eat it. I have no molars now in the bottom of mouth, so I will have to relearn how to eat until I get some implants to replace them after surgery. I'm sure it will be easier after my mouth heals up and I am not so sore from the surgery as I still have the two middle molars.

Just had some oatmeal for breakfast and that was no problem. My cousin Madeline is on her way over to hang out for awhile.

RJ

Oops, I Did It Again!!!!

2007-06-08T16:39:00.000-07:00

It's 6:40 on Friday and I feel pretty great! I am up and around and Mom and Debbie are here. The surgery was perfect and Dr Naples is great. Gonna watch some movies tonight and stay offline.

Thank you God for my healing which I am receiving right now!

RJ

"Bite It"

2007-06-07T13:07:00.000-07:00

I am getting 7 teeth removed tomorrow. Dr Naples is awesome and the whole staff was very helpful.

Met with Dr Leupnitz, my nutritionist this morning and I am so glad we have him on board. Got a bunch of supplements that will improve the treatment's efficiency.

RJ

For Anne

2007-06-06T23:57:00.000-07:00

My beloved, you have been so sweet to me for the last 2 & 1/2 years. You have been supportive of my dreams and believed in me even when it was challenging to trust that it is all as it should be.

Words are just not enough for me to express all of the love and respect I have for you and how you live and love others. Warm fuzzy thoughts fill my heart when I think of you! I can't wait to get through this bump in the road and love you for the many beautiful years we have to share together, doing projects, making music, praising God and touching all those around us.

So on this special day I say Happy Birthday Anne!

I love you so much!

RJ

Moving Forward

2007-06-06T23:13:00.001-07:00

We now have a plan for treatment and it will begin on Monday, June 25th at Texas Oncology in Round Rock. My docs there will be Darren Kocs & Valerian Chyle. We met with them on Monday and the whole visit flowed very well and they were very warm and friendly. They say the chemo I will be getting will be very mild and that I wont lose my hair or get sick from it, so give thanks for that!

Dr Chyle referred us to Dr Robert Naples upstairs in his building for a 2nd opinion on my teeth and I am going to do a consult with them on Thursday to see which of my teeth I will have to part with.

In the morning, I will be visiting with nutritionist Glen Leupnitz to make a plan about how to get through treatment and eat well.

Mom and I watched Al Gore's movie, An Inconvenient Truth tonight and it was excellent. So glad I finally got to see it. Go and rent it if you have not seen it. Our Mother is depending on us to make a change.

Gotta sleep now...

Have a blessed day--because you are!

RJ

Mondaze

2007-06-04T16:46:00.000-07:00

Had a full day so far. Dropped off the records at Texas Oncology in Round Rock, where I get to meet tomorrow with Dr. Kocs and see about chemo treatment.

Mom has been here for awhile and we are enjoying some time together and doing some organizing which is great.

RJ

How Do You Say... Ah Yes...

2007-06-03T20:37:00.000-07:00

Great weekend!

Played at the UT Golf Course at Steiner Ranch on Saturday night and had a great time celebrating the birthdays of Tyler & Leslie.

Today I did sound as usual in the morning and had an awesome healing session from Randy & Richard that was very powerful. Another journey with the Most High!

In the afternoon, I went to do a site survey with a client at a fairly new venue called Texas Old Town in Kyle. It's set up like an old western town and moderately priced.

After that, Genie came by and we dug around in some old school and Will brought some food by. Then during the rain storm Anne and Kalaiah came by and we went to Curry In Hurry for a minute before they closed.

May Monday bless you with more love!!!!

RJ

One of the best ways to remain light, even in the middle of chaos and heaviness, is to keep a conversation with God. Chatting to God, whose responsibilities are unlimited, about trivial matters that are wearing us down gives us a more entertaining view of life. It requires a certain stillness of mind to hear His advice, but with practice we learn to sense His perspective on our minor irritations.

I See Light

2007-05-31T16:29:00.000-07:00

I have sent an application to Dr Truitt in Nuevo Laredo to see about getting care from him.

I decided today to cancel the oral surgery until I see if this might be an option for treatment. I have very good feelings about this and trust that God is working it all out.

RJ

Oral Surgery

2007-05-30T10:30:00.001-07:00

Just got home from Dr Theriot and I will have oral surgery on Friday morning to remove 3 wisdom teeth. Fun stuff!

RJ

Healthy Teeth

2007-05-29T20:24:00.000-07:00

I went to visit Dr Baines today and he gave me a clean bill of health with my teeth. No cavities. Tomorrow morning I am going to see an oral surgeon about my wisdom teeth to see if they want to remove them before chemo/rad. They said it would be harder to remove them later and I don't totally understand why and hope to learn tomorrow.

Alex and I went out to eat tonight with Dante and I got stuffed...

RJ

Are You Juicing?

2007-05-29T06:54:00.000-07:00

I had a great smoothie this morning before breakfast. I had bought some romaine lettuce last week and had not had a chance to make a salad yet with it. So I put it in the juicer with some organic carrots and a tomato and it came out very tasty. My body really agrees with it too as I am drinking it. I think it just knows that it is the good stuff and part of my healing. Last night I had a salty snack and it did not go over quite as well.

Off to see the dentist today and see what they have to say about my teeth.

RJ

Throwdown!

2007-05-27T22:19:00.000-07:00

Had another great wedding Sunday at Green Pastures tonight! The place was rocking. Having dad with me has been wonderful and I've really enjoyed our time together. I almost have him fully trained as far as hooking up the gear, running a computer, well that's another story. Special thanks again to Tanya for making it all smooth.

RJ

Weekend

2007-05-27T09:06:00.001-07:00

I did a wedding last night for Joni & David and it was great to be working again and also to drive too! Dad and I had a great time out at Kindred Oaks in Georgetown. What a beautiful place they have. Donna and Elaine were very helpful doing whatever it took to make sure the evening flowed smoothly. The Arundel Ensemble performed in the ceremony and were excellent too. It's so great to keep making more new friends with the work I have been chosen to do.

I went by Alex's graduation party afterwards and got to see my baby and a bunch of her friends and family. Special thanks to her mother Melissa who put it all together.

RJ

Next Step / Alex Graduates

2007-05-25T04:44:00.001-07:00

Yesterday was a big day!

Went to see Dr Doner at ADC. He is a medical oncologist and was to have been administering chemo for me. He said he couldn't do anything for me since I don't have insurance. So I will be talking to the folks at Shivers in Austin and also MD Anderson in Houston to see if they can help me.

Last night Alexandra graduated from Anderson and the ceremony was held at the Erwin Center. I'm so proud of her for making it through. My mom and dad were there and also Alex's mom and other members of our family. It was quite beautiful.

RJ

Oncologist

2007-05-23T16:03:00.000-07:00

I went to see Dr Brown today at Austin Cancer Center with Lori and Mom. We all clicked very nicely together. He is very direct and to the point and I like that. We are looking at 8 weeks of radiation/chemo treatment. I was happy to meet the receptionist Sandra, who went to school with a friend of mine named Yellow who passed away a couple of weeks ago. She is from the VI and a big reggae fan so we have that in common which will be nice.

RJ

Wednesday Morning

2007-05-23T05:14:00.001-07:00

Well my brain decided it did not want to sleep this morning and woke me up at 5:30. It's 7:15 now and after a few great text messages came in I decided I would get up and start the day.

This like it will be a great day. Two big things happening today. My daughter has her last day of high school at Anderson. I'm so proud of her. It seems like yesterday when she was just a baby.

The other thing is that I will be meeting my new friends at Austin Cancer Center and see what the plan is for the radiation treatment.

The things that have been on my mind are the amazing amount of friends and love that I am surrounded by. All these angels are helping me on my path to healing. Daily miracles and things coming into alignment just when they should. Thank you God!

Last night my friend Sarah came by and helped me with some Quick Books accounting stuff and another friend Diane came by and brought some homemade calzones by that were killer!

Today I can hopefully get some more of this glue off of my neck. The incision looks very clean so far from what I can see of it. I have two weddings this weekend. I am picturing a glue free DJ!!! LOL

Wishing you a blessed day!

RJ

"Be enthusiastic. Remember the placebo effect - 30% of medicine is showbiz."
By : Ronald Spark

"Always bear in mind that your own resolution to succeed is more important than any other one thing."
By : Abraham Lincoln

Monday

2007-05-21T17:31:00.000-07:00

Had a great weekend.

Went to church on Sunday with mom and got filled up with spirit. Had a healing session after the service and it was great. I will be having these twice a week for the next few months to accelerate my healing. So many great friendships I have made at Unity that I am grateful for.

Went to see Alexandra after lunch with mom. We went in and got her a new camera for a graduation present. I'm so proud of her that she is graduating this week.

My father arrived Sunday afternoon and we have been hanging out doing our usual musical history research on lots of 50s songs. I always learn so much when he comes and stays with me and I really treasure our time together.

Got to hang out with my beloved Anne today before she flew off to Cleveland to be with her mother who is having a procedure done there this week. We had a great day together.

After she left, mom took me to see Doctor Kriesel for a checkup on my neck. He says I'm doing great and that I should be able to rub the Dermabond glue off of my neck by the end of the week. That will be nice. It's so tight and limits my range of motion as far as how far I can rotate my head.

All for now.

RJ

What A Week!!!

2007-05-18T14:59:00.000-07:00

Today is Friday.

Last Thursday my life changed.

I received a call from Dr Kevin Kreisle who diagnosed me with oropharyngeal squamous-cell cancer. It started in my mouth and spread quickly to my lymph nodes in my neck. He called me and said I had to come into his office on Friday morning at his Round Rock office. I was scheduled to setup at Bluebonnett Elementary in Round Rock to DJ for their field day. I setup and played for a bit and headed to his office, where Mom and Anne met me at 8:45. He gave me the lowdown and possibilities for treatment. One of the options was surgical removal. When he told me my voice would not be the same, I am almost lost it. He continued on with the other option, which was removal of the lymph nodes in my neck that were infected, followed by radiation therapy. I had a lump in the left side of my neck for the past few weeks.

My first trip was to ProMed on South Lamar and they mis-diagnosed it as an ulcer after spending no more than 2 minutes with me. I was prescribed anti-biotics and an oral solution, both of which did nothing. Next I sought treatment from a Chinese doctor and did 2 treatments with her. I didn't feel like I was getting anywhere and knew I had to have an answer. My beloved Anne called some of her friends and Lauren called back and said I should check out Dr Brode at Austin Regional Clinic on Ben White. I went to see him and saw that he was genuinely concerned with my well-being. He ordered me to have a catscan done. I went to ARC on May 4th to get it. The results were sent to Dr Kriesel and I saw him on the 8th. He read me the results and did a biopsy on the black spot growing in my mouth. Results showed that I had cancer and that we had to move fast to remove the bad cells that had spread to my lymph nodes. I finished my Friday school gig and my Saturday wedding and even did my usual sound gig at Unity Center. Some time Sunday afternoon, it finally hit me like a load of bricks! Was I making the right decison with the surgery? I had been so busy focused on work that I had not really had time to process it all. After several panicked hours, I calmed down and decided to go forward with the surgery.

Monday morning Anne and I checked into good ole Hotel Brackenridge at 5:30 am. Mom and Lori met us there. One of the people who processed me in happened to have the same last name as my mother, so we were related with roots in the small town of Commerce, TX. Surgery began around 8am and I came to some time after noon. As soon as I woke up I began throwing up from the anesthesia. No fun at all when you've had your neck sliced open. I think they sedated me and gave me something for the nausea. I awoke again at 2:30 and they took me up to the 8th floor to check in to my room. After the elevator ride, I got in my room and began throwing up again. Reminders of my body's sensitivity to drugs. I decided then that I would try to stay off of morphine or hydrocodone if at all possible and somehow I succeeded. I figured I could put up with a little discomfort if it wasn't too bad. The main discomfort I had was the tightening of the skin as I felt God's little angels doing their healing work in me. The swelling was bit uncomfortable, not too bad. I also set my mind on the idea that I would be released on Wednesday and frequently reminded those around me to correct their language with that outcome in mind. Expect the best, yeh? Two nights in the hospital and I did not get much sleep at all. I sleep very lightly and was not able to get much rest. Monday evening my butt had gone to sleep after lying on it all day, so I got out of bed and took a walk around the halls with a little help. Lots of friends came by that day and hung out with me and brought cards, flowers, and even an excellent Lance Armstrong book which I am devouring. What an inspiration his story is and the writing is excellent too.

Tuesday went very well and I continued to walk around the halls and had more guests come by. The highlight of the evening was when my cousin Kelley surprised me with a to-go box from Casa De Luz. Brack's attempts at a vegan food option left much to be desired, which we suspected. We went to Whole Foods Sunday night to get some things to get us through the days. Anyway, Casa's food is excellent macrobiotic veghead food! Full of that magical thing called life. I devoured all of it even after eating the frozen veggies that had been delivered.

Wednesday morning I awoke early before mom who was sleeping next to me. I got up and hit the bathroom and splashed my gown into the toilet as I sat down to do my morning bidness. So I threw that off and took a walk to the nurses station to find a fresh one. I got one and found Dr Kriesel making his rounds. I spoke to him and he agreed that I was doing great and would order me to be released that morning. Got my new gown and went back to my room to wait for mom to wake up as I knew she didn't get much sleep the previous night. My sister Lori had stayed with me Monday night away from her two boys and mom didn't get much rest. Both of them and Anne made things so easy with their encouragement and positive attitude.

Gotta also say special thanks to the other angels on the 8th floor at Brack who helped me get through: Jessica, Armand, Beulah, Rosario, Cresencia. I have been with Anne who is also a nurse for the last 2 & 1/2 years and I must say I now have a much better understanding of what nurses do and go through to genuinely help people. They are amazing people!

Thursday I made a trip to see Dr Kriesel's office and got the drain tubes taken out of my neck. After that lunch at Golden Wok which was excellent.

Fast-forward to Friday and I had a great day today. I finally got to shave my face today and that was a relief. Spent some time with Anne and it was great with her. We watched a movie about Dorothy Dandridge that was good but tragic. My friend Jane came by for a prayer healing session and that was great spending some time alone with her and the Creator.

My next doctor visit with Dr Kriesle is Monday and I will meet with my oncologist on Wednesday for an initial consultation and treatment plan.

Through all of this, the support of my mother, daughter, Anne and family and friends has been amazing! I love all of you dearly!

I know that I am going to make it through this and I ask all of you for your prayers and positive thoughts.

RJ