Re: USA Africa Dialogue Series - Cancer: My New Thing by La Vonda R. Staples
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Pablo Idahosa
Apr 20, 2013, 7:15:06 AM4/20/13
to usaafric...@googlegroups.com
Sister, La Vonda,
Recently, we have missed the humour, the power and the honest wisdom for last while. That silence has not diminished all of the attributes that you bring
to and for us. In your strength you are strong for all of us, as it takes strength share this with us. We cherish you so much, and are here with you, and ail care for you if and when you need us.
One love,
Pablo
On 2013-04-19, at 5:35 PM, "La Vonda R. Staples" <lrst...@gmail.com> wrote:
> http://www.lavondastaples.com/2013/04/cancer-my-new-thing.html
>
> Cancer: My New Thing
> I thought by now I'd be deep into PR for my book of essays. Never thought
> that I would be busy filling out papers and applications to save my life.
> Not meaning the expression but factually to save my life. I have cancer
> in my gall bladder and liver. The jury is still out on my thyroid. Can't
> put a name on that until the next biopsy. For now we'll say that there are
> nine new little friends who have hitched a ride inside that gland. Their
> presence was not requested nor was it appreciated.
>
> Cancer does not run in my family until very late in life. Really late for
> us. We live so long we consider seventy to be young. We have only had two
> cousins to die before the age of fifty. I will do all I can to not become
> number three.
>
> In July 2012 I went out and got myself a physical. Healthy as an ox as
> usual. I didn't have no kind of nothing that I wasn't supposed to have.
> January 2013 I started to get sick and could not get well. Coughs. A
> cold. The flu. Congestion in my chest. I quit my cosmetics job in
> February and all symptoms went away except one. A nagging pain in my side.
>
> I took a trip to the local emergency room and received a false diagnosis of
> UTI and a lecture from a nurse practitioner who didn't have time to put her
> hands on me and examine me before passing sentence. She told me that I had
> to wipe from front to back. I told her that I wipe sideways. She didn't
> appreciate my humor. She gave me antibiotics even though I protested
> loudly. Me and antibiotics really don't get along. True to form I got
> sicker during the single week I took this caustic stuff.
>
> For some reason which shall always be unknown to me I didn't go to the free
> clinic for a follow up. I borrowed money to go and see a doctor who would
> take cash payments. He put his pleasantly warm hands on my belly. My
> liver was so swollen he could feel it. In an instant the first test was
> ordered. The ultrasound showed tumors on my liver, thyroid, and an
> abnormal gall bladder. The next test was a week later. Paid for it cash
> money, too! It was a CT scan. This one gave the diagnosis. Cancer of the
> gall bladder and liver. I was told that there was no point in discussing
> my thyroid because my other two errant organs needed attention as soon as
> possible. I wish the state health insurance folks would listen to my
> doctor.
>
> I'm in a golden window of time where all my systems are still functioning.
> This is giving me time to run around like a maniac to all kinds of
> government office of which I previously was without knowledge. I'm glad I
> live in a country where we have these systems but I wish these systems were
> easier to negotiate.
>
> I plan to seek treatment at a single location. I'm optimistic but I'm also
> realistic. I don't know how long my ability to handle my own affairs will
> last. No one can tell me why the bile ducts in my liver are still
> functioning normally. No one can tell me why my thyroid is not releasing
> in thyroid mishaps into my blood. No one can tell me if I'll wake up
> tomorrow and have jaundiced eyes in addition to the pain which keeps me
> from beginning my day until two or three hours after I've ceased to sleep.
>
> I have to assume that each day that I'm able to take care of myself at home
> is a gift. I treat it as such. I complete what I can and plan what is
> left to be completed. That's the best I can do.
>
> My life will never be the same after cancer. Today it's my firm belief
> that I will have a life after cancer. I believe I will go on and I will be
> stronger, more appreciative, and better after this. I believe that it was
> time for my lesson in the valley. I've always been a good student. I just
> wish this wasn't such a hard lesson to learn.
>
> --
> You received this message because you are subscribed to the "USA-Africa Dialogue Series" moderated by Toyin Falola, University of Texas at Austin.
> For current archives, visit http://groups.google.com/group/USAAfricaDialogue
> For previous archives, visit http://www.utexas.edu/conferences/africa/ads/index.html
> To post to this group, send an email to USAAfric...@googlegroups.com
> To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to USAAfricaDialogue-
> unsub...@googlegroups.com
> ---
> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "USA Africa Dialogue Series" group.
> To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to usaafricadialo...@googlegroups.com.
> For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
>
>
Recently, we have missed the humour, the power and the honest wisdom for last while. That silence has not diminished all of the attributes that you bring
to and for us. In your strength you are strong for all of us, as it takes strength share this with us. We cherish you so much, and are here with you, and ail care for you if and when you need us.
One love,
Pablo
On 2013-04-19, at 5:35 PM, "La Vonda R. Staples" <lrst...@gmail.com> wrote:
> http://www.lavondastaples.com/2013/04/cancer-my-new-thing.html
>
> Cancer: My New Thing
> I thought by now I'd be deep into PR for my book of essays. Never thought
> that I would be busy filling out papers and applications to save my life.
> Not meaning the expression but factually to save my life. I have cancer
> in my gall bladder and liver. The jury is still out on my thyroid. Can't
> put a name on that until the next biopsy. For now we'll say that there are
> nine new little friends who have hitched a ride inside that gland. Their
> presence was not requested nor was it appreciated.
>
> Cancer does not run in my family until very late in life. Really late for
> us. We live so long we consider seventy to be young. We have only had two
> cousins to die before the age of fifty. I will do all I can to not become
> number three.
>
> In July 2012 I went out and got myself a physical. Healthy as an ox as
> usual. I didn't have no kind of nothing that I wasn't supposed to have.
> January 2013 I started to get sick and could not get well. Coughs. A
> cold. The flu. Congestion in my chest. I quit my cosmetics job in
> February and all symptoms went away except one. A nagging pain in my side.
>
> I took a trip to the local emergency room and received a false diagnosis of
> UTI and a lecture from a nurse practitioner who didn't have time to put her
> hands on me and examine me before passing sentence. She told me that I had
> to wipe from front to back. I told her that I wipe sideways. She didn't
> appreciate my humor. She gave me antibiotics even though I protested
> loudly. Me and antibiotics really don't get along. True to form I got
> sicker during the single week I took this caustic stuff.
>
> For some reason which shall always be unknown to me I didn't go to the free
> clinic for a follow up. I borrowed money to go and see a doctor who would
> take cash payments. He put his pleasantly warm hands on my belly. My
> liver was so swollen he could feel it. In an instant the first test was
> ordered. The ultrasound showed tumors on my liver, thyroid, and an
> abnormal gall bladder. The next test was a week later. Paid for it cash
> money, too! It was a CT scan. This one gave the diagnosis. Cancer of the
> gall bladder and liver. I was told that there was no point in discussing
> my thyroid because my other two errant organs needed attention as soon as
> possible. I wish the state health insurance folks would listen to my
> doctor.
>
> I'm in a golden window of time where all my systems are still functioning.
> This is giving me time to run around like a maniac to all kinds of
> government office of which I previously was without knowledge. I'm glad I
> live in a country where we have these systems but I wish these systems were
> easier to negotiate.
>
> I plan to seek treatment at a single location. I'm optimistic but I'm also
> realistic. I don't know how long my ability to handle my own affairs will
> last. No one can tell me why the bile ducts in my liver are still
> functioning normally. No one can tell me why my thyroid is not releasing
> in thyroid mishaps into my blood. No one can tell me if I'll wake up
> tomorrow and have jaundiced eyes in addition to the pain which keeps me
> from beginning my day until two or three hours after I've ceased to sleep.
>
> I have to assume that each day that I'm able to take care of myself at home
> is a gift. I treat it as such. I complete what I can and plan what is
> left to be completed. That's the best I can do.
>
> My life will never be the same after cancer. Today it's my firm belief
> that I will have a life after cancer. I believe I will go on and I will be
> stronger, more appreciative, and better after this. I believe that it was
> time for my lesson in the valley. I've always been a good student. I just
> wish this wasn't such a hard lesson to learn.
>
> --
> You received this message because you are subscribed to the "USA-Africa Dialogue Series" moderated by Toyin Falola, University of Texas at Austin.
> For current archives, visit http://groups.google.com/group/USAAfricaDialogue
> For previous archives, visit http://www.utexas.edu/conferences/africa/ads/index.html
> To post to this group, send an email to USAAfric...@googlegroups.com
> To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to USAAfricaDialogue-
> unsub...@googlegroups.com
> ---
> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "USA Africa Dialogue Series" group.
> To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to usaafricadialo...@googlegroups.com.
> For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
>
>
Anya Egwu
Apr 20, 2013, 6:39:28 AM4/20/13
to usaafric...@googlegroups.com
| La Vonda,keep the vision of a life after cancer strong and alive, and you will certainly have a life after cancer. Be strong and courageous. God will see you through. --- On Sat, 20/4/13, La Vonda R. Staples <lrst...@gmail.com> wrote: |
Shola Adenekan
Apr 20, 2013, 3:43:22 AM4/20/13
to usaafricadialogue, La Vonda R. Staples
Many thanks for sharing this, Lavonda. I think yours is a very important story. Most of our folks do not know, and do not want to talk about cancer. But we must talk about it, as it is increasingly affecting our communities.
Well done! Be brave. You can fight this and I believe you will win!kenneth harrow
Apr 20, 2013, 12:34:38 AM4/20/13
to usaafric...@googlegroups.com
hi lavonda
we all on this list will be praying for you and sending you all our healing thoughts!
ken
we all on this list will be praying for you and sending you all our healing thoughts!
ken
-- kenneth w. harrow faculty excellence advocate distinguished professor of english michigan state university department of english 619 red cedar road room C-614 wells hall east lansing, mi 48824 ph. 517 803 8839 har...@msu.edu
Kevin Ibeh
Apr 20, 2013, 11:01:43 AM4/20/13
to usaafric...@googlegroups.com, usaafric...@googlegroups.com
La Vonda, my dearly treasured Sister I haven't yet met. You inspire in spades, you show such great example, by your courage, mental strength and spiritual clarity. Sister, you're not going anywhere. The God of Our People will heal you. The God of Our People will restore you. You, La Vonda R. Staples, are not done here. Not by a long mile.
Best wishes,
Kevin
Sent from my iPhone
On 20 Apr 2013, at 13:56, "kenneth harrow" <har...@msu.edu<mailto:har...@msu.edu>> wrote:
hi lavonda
we all on this list will be praying for you and sending you all our healing thoughts!
ken
On 4/19/13 5:35 PM, La Vonda R. Staples wrote:
<http://www.lavondastaples.com/2013/04/cancer-my-new-thing.html>http://www.lavondastaples.com/2013/04/cancer-my-new-thing.html
Cancer: My New Thing
I thought by now I'd be deep into PR for my book of essays. Never thought that I would be busy filling out papers and applications to save my life. Not meaning the expression but factually to save my life. I have cancer in my gall bladder and liver. The jury is still out on my thyroid. Can't put a name on that until the next biopsy. For now we'll say that there are nine new little friends who have hitched a ride inside that gland. Their presence was not requested nor was it appreciated.
Cancer does not run in my family until very late in life. Really late for us. We live so long we consider seventy to be young. We have only had two cousins to die before the age of fifty. I will do all I can to not become number three.
In July 2012 I went out and got myself a physical. Healthy as an ox as usual. I didn't have no kind of nothing that I wasn't supposed to have. January 2013 I started to get sick and could not get well. Coughs. A cold. The flu. Congestion in my chest. I quit my cosmetics job in February and all symptoms went away except one. A nagging pain in my side.
I took a trip to the local emergency room and received a false diagnosis of UTI and a lecture from a nurse practitioner who didn't have time to put her hands on me and examine me before passing sentence. She told me that I had to wipe from front to back. I told her that I wipe sideways. She didn't appreciate my humor. She gave me antibiotics even though I protested loudly. Me and antibiotics really don't get along. True to form I got sicker during the single week I took this caustic stuff.
For some reason which shall always be unknown to me I didn't go to the free clinic for a follow up. I borrowed money to go and see a doctor who would take cash payments. He put his pleasantly warm hands on my belly. My liver was so swollen he could feel it. In an instant the first test was ordered. The ultrasound showed tumors on my liver, thyroid, and an abnormal gall bladder. The next test was a week later. Paid for it cash money, too! It was a CT scan. This one gave the diagnosis. Cancer of the gall bladder and liver. I was told that there was no point in discussing my thyroid because my other two errant organs needed attention as soon as possible. I wish the state health insurance folks would listen to my doctor.
I'm in a golden window of time where all my systems are still functioning. This is giving me time to run around like a maniac to all kinds of government office of which I previously was without knowledge. I'm glad I live in a country where we have these systems but I wish these systems were easier to negotiate.
I plan to seek treatment at a single location. I'm optimistic but I'm also realistic. I don't know how long my ability to handle my own affairs will last. No one can tell me why the bile ducts in my liver are still functioning normally. No one can tell me why my thyroid is not releasing in thyroid mishaps into my blood. No one can tell me if I'll wake up tomorrow and have jaundiced eyes in addition to the pain which keeps me from beginning my day until two or three hours after I've ceased to sleep.
I have to assume that each day that I'm able to take care of myself at home is a gift. I treat it as such. I complete what I can and plan what is left to be completed. That's the best I can do.
My life will never be the same after cancer. Today it's my firm belief that I will have a life after cancer. I believe I will go on and I will be stronger, more appreciative, and better after this. I believe that it was time for my lesson in the valley. I've always been a good student. I just wish this wasn't such a hard lesson to learn.
--
You received this message because you are subscribed to the "USA-Africa Dialogue Series" moderated by Toyin Falola, University of Texas at Austin.
For current archives, visit <http://groups.google.com/group/USAAfricaDialogue> http://groups.google.com/group/USAAfricaDialogue
For previous archives, visit <http://www.utexas.edu/conferences/africa/ads/index.html> http://www.utexas.edu/conferences/africa/ads/index.html
To post to this group, send an email to <mailto:USAAfric...@googlegroups.com> USAAfric...@googlegroups.com<mailto:USAAfric...@googlegroups.com>
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--
kenneth w. harrow
faculty excellence advocate
distinguished professor of english
michigan state university
department of english
619 red cedar road
room C-614 wells hall
east lansing, mi 48824
ph. 517 803 8839
<mailto:har...@msu.edu>har...@msu.edu<mailto:har...@msu.edu>
--
You received this message because you are subscribed to the "USA-Africa Dialogue Series" moderated by Toyin Falola, University of Texas at Austin.
For current archives, visit <http://groups.google.com/group/USAAfricaDialogue> http://groups.google.com/group/USAAfricaDialogue
For previous archives, visit <http://www.utexas.edu/conferences/africa/ads/index.html> http://www.utexas.edu/conferences/africa/ads/index.html
To post to this group, send an email to <mailto:USAAfric...@googlegroups.com> USAAfric...@googlegroups.com<mailto:USAAfric...@googlegroups.com>
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Best wishes,
Kevin
Sent from my iPhone
On 20 Apr 2013, at 13:56, "kenneth harrow" <har...@msu.edu<mailto:har...@msu.edu>> wrote:
hi lavonda
we all on this list will be praying for you and sending you all our healing thoughts!
ken
On 4/19/13 5:35 PM, La Vonda R. Staples wrote:
Cancer: My New Thing
I thought by now I'd be deep into PR for my book of essays. Never thought that I would be busy filling out papers and applications to save my life. Not meaning the expression but factually to save my life. I have cancer in my gall bladder and liver. The jury is still out on my thyroid. Can't put a name on that until the next biopsy. For now we'll say that there are nine new little friends who have hitched a ride inside that gland. Their presence was not requested nor was it appreciated.
Cancer does not run in my family until very late in life. Really late for us. We live so long we consider seventy to be young. We have only had two cousins to die before the age of fifty. I will do all I can to not become number three.
In July 2012 I went out and got myself a physical. Healthy as an ox as usual. I didn't have no kind of nothing that I wasn't supposed to have. January 2013 I started to get sick and could not get well. Coughs. A cold. The flu. Congestion in my chest. I quit my cosmetics job in February and all symptoms went away except one. A nagging pain in my side.
I took a trip to the local emergency room and received a false diagnosis of UTI and a lecture from a nurse practitioner who didn't have time to put her hands on me and examine me before passing sentence. She told me that I had to wipe from front to back. I told her that I wipe sideways. She didn't appreciate my humor. She gave me antibiotics even though I protested loudly. Me and antibiotics really don't get along. True to form I got sicker during the single week I took this caustic stuff.
For some reason which shall always be unknown to me I didn't go to the free clinic for a follow up. I borrowed money to go and see a doctor who would take cash payments. He put his pleasantly warm hands on my belly. My liver was so swollen he could feel it. In an instant the first test was ordered. The ultrasound showed tumors on my liver, thyroid, and an abnormal gall bladder. The next test was a week later. Paid for it cash money, too! It was a CT scan. This one gave the diagnosis. Cancer of the gall bladder and liver. I was told that there was no point in discussing my thyroid because my other two errant organs needed attention as soon as possible. I wish the state health insurance folks would listen to my doctor.
I'm in a golden window of time where all my systems are still functioning. This is giving me time to run around like a maniac to all kinds of government office of which I previously was without knowledge. I'm glad I live in a country where we have these systems but I wish these systems were easier to negotiate.
I plan to seek treatment at a single location. I'm optimistic but I'm also realistic. I don't know how long my ability to handle my own affairs will last. No one can tell me why the bile ducts in my liver are still functioning normally. No one can tell me why my thyroid is not releasing in thyroid mishaps into my blood. No one can tell me if I'll wake up tomorrow and have jaundiced eyes in addition to the pain which keeps me from beginning my day until two or three hours after I've ceased to sleep.
I have to assume that each day that I'm able to take care of myself at home is a gift. I treat it as such. I complete what I can and plan what is left to be completed. That's the best I can do.
My life will never be the same after cancer. Today it's my firm belief that I will have a life after cancer. I believe I will go on and I will be stronger, more appreciative, and better after this. I believe that it was time for my lesson in the valley. I've always been a good student. I just wish this wasn't such a hard lesson to learn.
--
You received this message because you are subscribed to the "USA-Africa Dialogue Series" moderated by Toyin Falola, University of Texas at Austin.
For previous archives, visit <http://www.utexas.edu/conferences/africa/ads/index.html> http://www.utexas.edu/conferences/africa/ads/index.html
To post to this group, send an email to <mailto:USAAfric...@googlegroups.com> USAAfric...@googlegroups.com<mailto:USAAfric...@googlegroups.com>
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--
kenneth w. harrow
faculty excellence advocate
distinguished professor of english
michigan state university
department of english
619 red cedar road
room C-614 wells hall
east lansing, mi 48824
ph. 517 803 8839
--
You received this message because you are subscribed to the "USA-Africa Dialogue Series" moderated by Toyin Falola, University of Texas at Austin.
For previous archives, visit <http://www.utexas.edu/conferences/africa/ads/index.html> http://www.utexas.edu/conferences/africa/ads/index.html
To post to this group, send an email to <mailto:USAAfric...@googlegroups.com> USAAfric...@googlegroups.com<mailto:USAAfric...@googlegroups.com>
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Emeagwali, Gloria (History)
Apr 20, 2013, 10:57:19 AM4/20/13
to usaafric...@googlegroups.com
La Vonda,
Really sorry to hear about this.
Please stay strong.
Professor Gloria Emeagwali
africahistory.net
vimeo.com/user5946750/videos
Documentaries on Africa and the African Diaspora
________________________________
From: usaafric...@googlegroups.com [usaafric...@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of La Vonda R. Staples [lrst...@gmail.com]
Sent: Friday, April 19, 2013 5:35 PM
To: usaafric...@googlegroups.com
For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
Really sorry to hear about this.
Please stay strong.
Professor Gloria Emeagwali
africahistory.net
vimeo.com/user5946750/videos
Documentaries on Africa and the African Diaspora
________________________________
From: usaafric...@googlegroups.com [usaafric...@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of La Vonda R. Staples [lrst...@gmail.com]
Sent: Friday, April 19, 2013 5:35 PM
To: usaafric...@googlegroups.com
Subject: USA Africa Dialogue Series - Cancer: My New Thing by La Vonda R. Staples
http://www.lavondastaples.com/2013/04/cancer-my-new-thing.html
Cancer: My New Thing
I thought by now I'd be deep into PR for my book of essays. Never thought that I would be busy filling out papers and applications to save my life. Not meaning the expression but factually to save my life. I have cancer in my gall bladder and liver. The jury is still out on my thyroid. Can't put a name on that until the next biopsy. For now we'll say that there are nine new little friends who have hitched a ride inside that gland. Their presence was not requested nor was it appreciated.
Cancer does not run in my family until very late in life. Really late for us. We live so long we consider seventy to be young. We have only had two cousins to die before the age of fifty. I will do all I can to not become number three.
In July 2012 I went out and got myself a physical. Healthy as an ox as usual. I didn't have no kind of nothing that I wasn't supposed to have. January 2013 I started to get sick and could not get well. Coughs. A cold. The flu. Congestion in my chest. I quit my cosmetics job in February and all symptoms went away except one. A nagging pain in my side.
I took a trip to the local emergency room and received a false diagnosis of UTI and a lecture from a nurse practitioner who didn't have time to put her hands on me and examine me before passing sentence. She told me that I had to wipe from front to back. I told her that I wipe sideways. She didn't appreciate my humor. She gave me antibiotics even though I protested loudly. Me and antibiotics really don't get along. True to form I got sicker during the single week I took this caustic stuff.
For some reason which shall always be unknown to me I didn't go to the free clinic for a follow up. I borrowed money to go and see a doctor who would take cash payments. He put his pleasantly warm hands on my belly. My liver was so swollen he could feel it. In an instant the first test was ordered. The ultrasound showed tumors on my liver, thyroid, and an abnormal gall bladder. The next test was a week later. Paid for it cash money, too! It was a CT scan. This one gave the diagnosis. Cancer of the gall bladder and liver. I was told that there was no point in discussing my thyroid because my other two errant organs needed attention as soon as possible. I wish the state health insurance folks would listen to my doctor.
I'm in a golden window of time where all my systems are still functioning. This is giving me time to run around like a maniac to all kinds of government office of which I previously was without knowledge. I'm glad I live in a country where we have these systems but I wish these systems were easier to negotiate.
I plan to seek treatment at a single location. I'm optimistic but I'm also realistic. I don't know how long my ability to handle my own affairs will last. No one can tell me why the bile ducts in my liver are still functioning normally. No one can tell me why my thyroid is not releasing in thyroid mishaps into my blood. No one can tell me if I'll wake up tomorrow and have jaundiced eyes in addition to the pain which keeps me from beginning my day until two or three hours after I've ceased to sleep.
I have to assume that each day that I'm able to take care of myself at home is a gift. I treat it as such. I complete what I can and plan what is left to be completed. That's the best I can do.
My life will never be the same after cancer. Today it's my firm belief that I will have a life after cancer. I believe I will go on and I will be stronger, more appreciative, and better after this. I believe that it was time for my lesson in the valley. I've always been a good student. I just wish this wasn't such a hard lesson to learn.
--
You received this message because you are subscribed to the "USA-Africa Dialogue Series" moderated by Toyin Falola, University of Texas at Austin.
For current archives, visit http://groups.google.com/group/USAAfricaDialogue
Cancer: My New Thing
I thought by now I'd be deep into PR for my book of essays. Never thought that I would be busy filling out papers and applications to save my life. Not meaning the expression but factually to save my life. I have cancer in my gall bladder and liver. The jury is still out on my thyroid. Can't put a name on that until the next biopsy. For now we'll say that there are nine new little friends who have hitched a ride inside that gland. Their presence was not requested nor was it appreciated.
Cancer does not run in my family until very late in life. Really late for us. We live so long we consider seventy to be young. We have only had two cousins to die before the age of fifty. I will do all I can to not become number three.
In July 2012 I went out and got myself a physical. Healthy as an ox as usual. I didn't have no kind of nothing that I wasn't supposed to have. January 2013 I started to get sick and could not get well. Coughs. A cold. The flu. Congestion in my chest. I quit my cosmetics job in February and all symptoms went away except one. A nagging pain in my side.
I took a trip to the local emergency room and received a false diagnosis of UTI and a lecture from a nurse practitioner who didn't have time to put her hands on me and examine me before passing sentence. She told me that I had to wipe from front to back. I told her that I wipe sideways. She didn't appreciate my humor. She gave me antibiotics even though I protested loudly. Me and antibiotics really don't get along. True to form I got sicker during the single week I took this caustic stuff.
For some reason which shall always be unknown to me I didn't go to the free clinic for a follow up. I borrowed money to go and see a doctor who would take cash payments. He put his pleasantly warm hands on my belly. My liver was so swollen he could feel it. In an instant the first test was ordered. The ultrasound showed tumors on my liver, thyroid, and an abnormal gall bladder. The next test was a week later. Paid for it cash money, too! It was a CT scan. This one gave the diagnosis. Cancer of the gall bladder and liver. I was told that there was no point in discussing my thyroid because my other two errant organs needed attention as soon as possible. I wish the state health insurance folks would listen to my doctor.
I'm in a golden window of time where all my systems are still functioning. This is giving me time to run around like a maniac to all kinds of government office of which I previously was without knowledge. I'm glad I live in a country where we have these systems but I wish these systems were easier to negotiate.
I plan to seek treatment at a single location. I'm optimistic but I'm also realistic. I don't know how long my ability to handle my own affairs will last. No one can tell me why the bile ducts in my liver are still functioning normally. No one can tell me why my thyroid is not releasing in thyroid mishaps into my blood. No one can tell me if I'll wake up tomorrow and have jaundiced eyes in addition to the pain which keeps me from beginning my day until two or three hours after I've ceased to sleep.
I have to assume that each day that I'm able to take care of myself at home is a gift. I treat it as such. I complete what I can and plan what is left to be completed. That's the best I can do.
My life will never be the same after cancer. Today it's my firm belief that I will have a life after cancer. I believe I will go on and I will be stronger, more appreciative, and better after this. I believe that it was time for my lesson in the valley. I've always been a good student. I just wish this wasn't such a hard lesson to learn.
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Chidi Anthony Opara
Apr 20, 2013, 9:43:31 AM4/20/13
to USA Africa Dialogue Series
Higher and higher
Minds of faith
Soar,
From above releasing
Rays of hope
To erase
Infirmities of body.
(A stanza from my unpublished poem titled “Rays Of Hope”)
CAO.
Minds of faith
Soar,
From above releasing
Rays of hope
To erase
Infirmities of body.
(A stanza from my unpublished poem titled “Rays Of Hope”)
CAO.
udo...@appstate.edu
Apr 20, 2013, 12:24:26 PM4/20/13
to usaafric...@googlegroups.com
Sister Lavonda:
We have become a family in this forum since brother Falola started this dialogue
going many years ago. As my late father would say: "The voice of the masses is
like the voice of God." I hereby join our family in wishing you a speedy recovery.
Ike Udogu
----- Original Message -----
From: kenneth harrow <har...@msu.edu>
Date: Saturday, April 20, 2013 8:56 am
Subject: Re: USA Africa Dialogue Series - Cancer: My New Thing by La Vonda R.
Staples
We have become a family in this forum since brother Falola started this dialogue
going many years ago. As my late father would say: "The voice of the masses is
like the voice of God." I hereby join our family in wishing you a speedy recovery.
Ike Udogu
----- Original Message -----
From: kenneth harrow <har...@msu.edu>
Date: Saturday, April 20, 2013 8:56 am
Subject: Re: USA Africa Dialogue Series - Cancer: My New Thing by La Vonda R.
Staples
La Vonda R. Staples
Apr 20, 2013, 3:08:52 PM4/20/13
to usaafric...@googlegroups.com
Thank you. You don't know how much these voices across the wires have helped me. We say "cancer" as an abstract term without knowing all facets involved. I had heard of the pain, weight loss, and other unpleasantness. With my early experiences I can honestly tell you that I would not wish this disease on my worst enemy. I don't think it is even a just punishment for those who are pedophiles or child murderers. To wake up each day and have the first act to be wiping away tears. I wake into a consciousness of pain.
I, who have enjoyed exemplary health since I bounced into this world as a 10 pound 24 inch long brown baby girl. I am just a big ball of life. With all of the good and bad intertwined. I am used to a lot of physical activity and holiday eating of bacchanalian proportions. Now? I eat my meals off of a saucer to avoid the pain of my expanding stomach colliding with my aching liver.
Absolute joy or absolute sadness? Only in pain and sadness have I learned to call on God as if He is my real Father, sitting next to me, holding my hand. Crying tears in sympathy with me and over me and for me.
My doctors have told me that I will never be the same. Two offered to have the gall bladder out immediately but also told me that since my systems are still functioning I have time to wait to be admitted to the Siteman Cancer Center run by Washington University here in St. Louis. The decision, at the time, seemed to be a mild journey of a few days. That changed quickly.
Each day I am buoyed along by words such as yours and others who have sent me well wishes. They are the helping and healing hands which take over when it seems that my resolve to have all three organs treated by those who specialize in cancer has grown as thin as the tread on a poor boys' sneakers.
I thank you,
Vonda
La Vonda R. Staples, Writer
BA Psychology 2005 and MA European History 2009
“If your dreams do not scare you, they are not big enough.”
Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, This Child Will Be Great; Memoir of a Remarkable Life by Africa's First Woman President.
Segun Ogungbemi
Apr 20, 2013, 11:15:01 AM4/20/13
to usaafric...@googlegroups.com
Is there anything you think, at this moment, we can do for you? You mean so much to us even though I have not met you physically.
The instrument of survival is the dynamic will to live on. Don't give up.
With love and best wishes,
Segun Ogungbemi.
Sent from my iPhone
Sent from my iPhone
zackwilliams alfred
Apr 20, 2013, 3:43:33 PM4/20/13
to usaafric...@googlegroups.com
Dear La Vonda, Like most people on this network, I have not met you, but I am moved by the strength in your posting, which I feel is crucial in coping with Cancer. Continue to be strong; we will remember you in our prayers and thoughts.
Tunde
Tunde
Chika Onyeani
Apr 20, 2013, 12:36:21 PM4/20/13
to usaafric...@googlegroups.com
Fresh Abacha N3.2tr. Loot, Baby Thieves, Looming Power and Fuel Scarcity reported in Nigeria
Agency Report
Former and late Nigerian dictator, Gen. Sani Abacha
Lagos, Nigeria (PANA)
– Fresh Abacha loot, discovered by the government, two baby thieves
arrested by the police, demand for compensation by Boko Haram victims,
looming power and fuel scarcity, and corruption in the civil service
were some of the stories reported in Nigeria this week. (Read More)
- AZANIA MUSIC: By American-Sierra Leonean Superstar
- Boko Haram’s Amnesty, MEND’s Threat to Attack Mosques Reported in Nigeria
- Fresh Abacha N3.2tr. Loot, Baby Thieves, Looming Power and Fuel Scarcity reported in Nigeria
- Boston Marathon Bomber Nabbed Alive by Police – Breaking News
- Relaxed Boston ‘Bomber Suspect 2″ Partied With College Friends on Wednesday, Two Days After Marathon Massacre
- AfDB upbeat over Africa’s economic growth
- Remarks at the Africa Health Forum
- COMAI IV: How Africans can better own their Integration?
- AU-EU Joint Press Conference
- FBI Identifies Two Suspects in Boston Bombing
- National Bar Association and Constituency for Africa Caucus on Capital Hill to Strengthen Engagement in Africa
Chika A. Onyeani
Publisher/Editor-in-Chief
African Sun Times: www.africansuntimes.com
Host: All Africa Radio: www.allafricaradio.com
Tel.: 973-675-9919
Fax: 973-675-5704
Cell: 917-279-4038
Publisher/Editor-in-Chief
African Sun Times: www.africansuntimes.com
Host: All Africa Radio: www.allafricaradio.com
Tel.: 973-675-9919
Fax: 973-675-5704
Cell: 917-279-4038
"It
is not what you call me, but what I answer to, that matters most" -
Capitalist Nigger: The Road to Success, Onyeani's internationally
acclaimed No. 1 bestselling book.
Have you bought
Onyeani's new blockbuster novel, The Broederbond Conspiracy,
www.thebroederbondconspiracy.com? or www.theblackjamesbond.com, adapted
by the San Francisco State University "to teach students how to write a
spy novel."
Nkolika Ebele
Apr 20, 2013, 2:51:37 PM4/20/13
to usaafric...@googlegroups.com
Try the herbal alternative, like the Aloe /Whisky treatment. It can be of help. Google it and find out more. Please do not be defeated in spirit.
Nkolika
From: Anya Egwu <ikec...@yahoo.co.uk>
To: usaafric...@googlegroups.com
Sent: Saturday, April 20, 2013 11:39 AM
Subject: Re: USA Africa Dialogue Series - Cancer: My New Thing by La Vonda R. Staples
La Vonda R. Staples
Apr 20, 2013, 4:08:45 PM4/20/13
to usaafric...@googlegroups.com
The only thing anyone can do is pray. I wish there was something but there isn't.
Kwabena Akurang-Parry
Apr 20, 2013, 4:49:12 PM4/20/13
to usaafric...@googlegroups.com
Sister La Vonda:
We are all praying for the restoration of your health. Be well.
Kwabena.
Date: Sat, 20 Apr 2013 15:08:45 -0500
Subject: Re: USA Africa Dialogue Series - Cancer: My New Thing by La Vonda R. Staples
shina7...@yahoo.com
Apr 20, 2013, 4:31:13 PM4/20/13
to usaafric...@googlegroups.com
For La Vonda: A Smile for Survival
There is no threat yet
that matches the brightness
of a resolute smile;
No cellular twitch
compares with a steely
resolve.
We sleep each night
with all repressed fears
and awake each morning
always ready to fight on.
Headache
Heartache-
always ready to fight on
Tears
Wears
Ups
Downs-
always willing to fight on
A step today,
another tomorrow;
a year, five-
on and on,
smiling through
our Sisyphian ordeal;
always able to fight on
Science writes a report,
God disposes it
and the heart snatches
a spiritual smile
that stirs the body
into metabolic motion
...ready to move on!
Adeshina Afolayan
There is no threat yet
that matches the brightness
of a resolute smile;
No cellular twitch
compares with a steely
resolve.
We sleep each night
with all repressed fears
and awake each morning
always ready to fight on.
Headache
Heartache-
always ready to fight on
Tears
Wears
Ups
Downs-
always willing to fight on
A step today,
another tomorrow;
a year, five-
on and on,
smiling through
our Sisyphian ordeal;
always able to fight on
Science writes a report,
God disposes it
and the heart snatches
a spiritual smile
that stirs the body
into metabolic motion
...ready to move on!
Adeshina Afolayan
Sent from my BlackBerry wireless device from MTN
From: "La Vonda R. Staples" <lrst...@gmail.com>
Sender: usaafric...@googlegroups.com
Date: Fri, 19 Apr 2013 14:35:08 -0700 (PDT)
ReplyTo: usaafric...@googlegroups.com
Subject: USA Africa Dialogue Series - Cancer: My New Thing by La Vonda R. Staples
Ayoola Tokunbo
Apr 20, 2013, 6:50:35 PM4/20/13
to usaafric...@googlegroups.com
Dear Sister La Vonda,
It is well. Our prayers and thoughts are with you at this crucial period.
You will not die before your time. Be strong and have faith in God that you will surely pull through this.
Be well our sister.
Tokunbo and Biola
Date: Sat, 20 Apr 2013 14:08:52 -0500
It is well. Our prayers and thoughts are with you at this crucial period.
You will not die before your time. Be strong and have faith in God that you will surely pull through this.
Be well our sister.
Tokunbo and Biola
Date: Sat, 20 Apr 2013 14:08:52 -0500
Subject: Re: USA Africa Dialogue Series - Cancer: My New Thing by La Vonda R. Staples
joan.Osa Oviawe
Apr 20, 2013, 6:35:16 PM4/20/13
to usaafric...@googlegroups.com
Sis,
Sending you prayers and positive wishes.
joan
Sending you prayers and positive wishes.
joan
BEN NWOSU
Apr 20, 2013, 8:54:13 PM4/20/13
to usaafric...@googlegroups.com
Hi Lavonda,
Your story is such a moving one. Its somewhat difficult to give you suggestions on the right attitude to this development because you come across as a realistic fellow with a cast iron will-power. I like to remind you as you already know, that all cancer stories do not have similar endings. On a deep note of empathy, may you have a victory story after this challenge.
Ben.
Your story is such a moving one. Its somewhat difficult to give you suggestions on the right attitude to this development because you come across as a realistic fellow with a cast iron will-power. I like to remind you as you already know, that all cancer stories do not have similar endings. On a deep note of empathy, may you have a victory story after this challenge.
Ben.
From: zackwilliams alfred <ab...@blueyonder.co.uk>
To: usaafric...@googlegroups.com
Sent: Sunday, 21 April 2013 7:43 AM
Subject: Re: USA Africa Dialogue Series - Cancer: My New Thing by La Vonda R. Staples
Emeagwali, Gloria (History)
Apr 20, 2013, 10:13:23 PM4/20/13
to usaafric...@googlegroups.com
I am happy to say that I had a chat with Lavonda and she is in fighting spirit.
Our support is key.
Adeshina, this is a nice poem .
G
________________________________
From: usaafric...@googlegroups.com [usaafric...@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of shina7...@yahoo.com [shina7...@yahoo.com]
Sent: Saturday, April 20, 2013 4:31 PM
To: usaafric...@googlegroups.com
Subject: Re: USA Africa Dialogue Series - Cancer: My New Thing by La Vonda R. Staples
Our support is key.
Adeshina, this is a nice poem .
G
________________________________
From: usaafric...@googlegroups.com [usaafric...@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of shina7...@yahoo.com [shina7...@yahoo.com]
Sent: Saturday, April 20, 2013 4:31 PM
To: usaafric...@googlegroups.com
Subject: Re: USA Africa Dialogue Series - Cancer: My New Thing by La Vonda R. Staples
Okey Ndibe
Apr 21, 2013, 12:25:24 AM4/21/13
to usaafric...@googlegroups.com
I'm sorry to be coming a bit late to this thread.
I'd like to assure La Vonda of my prayers as she battles this dreadful but not insurmountable disease. It can be hard to do, but it's important to keep your spirits up. I believe that one's spiritual disposition is a big factor in healing the body.
God bless.
ON
From: "Emeagwali, Gloria (History)" <emea...@mail.ccsu.edu>
To: "usaafric...@googlegroups.com" <usaafric...@googlegroups.com>
Sent: Saturday, April 20, 2013 10:13 PM
Subject: RE: USA Africa Dialogue Series - Cancer: My New Thing by La Vonda R. Staples
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emeka...@yahoo.com
Apr 21, 2013, 3:38:44 AM4/21/13
to USAAfric...@googlegroups.com
Dear Lavonda,
I can imagine the emotional upset you are passiing through. I am hopeful that it was detected early enough and can be handled. Our prayers are with you.
Emeka Ezeonu
I can imagine the emotional upset you are passiing through. I am hopeful that it was detected early enough and can be handled. Our prayers are with you.
Emeka Ezeonu
Sent from my BlackBerry wireless device from MTN
From: "La Vonda R. Staples" <lrst...@gmail.com>
Sender: usaafric...@googlegroups.com
Date: Sat, 20 Apr 2013 15:08:45 -0500
ReplyTo: usaafric...@googlegroups.com
Subject: Re: USA Africa Dialogue Series - Cancer: My New Thing by La Vonda R. Staples
Tade Akin Aina
Apr 21, 2013, 5:51:15 AM4/21/13
to usaafric...@googlegroups.com, usaafric...@googlegroups.com
Please accept our prayers for healing and complete recovery.
-taa.
Sent from my iPad
-taa.
Sent from my iPad
bol...@yahoo.com
Apr 21, 2013, 8:36:13 AM4/21/13
to usaafric...@googlegroups.com
As we all pray for La Vonda to be healed of her cancer, I am wondering if a La Vonda health/cancer fund has been created where we can all support our sister by donating towards her medical bills.
I think this will be very useful in our sister's fight to beat the monster. Anyone has ideas on how to go about this?
Best regards,
Julius
I think this will be very useful in our sister's fight to beat the monster. Anyone has ideas on how to go about this?
Best regards,
Julius
Sent on the TELUS Mobility network with BlackBerry
From: Okey Ndibe <okn...@yahoo.com>
Sender: usaafric...@googlegroups.com
Date: Sat, 20 Apr 2013 21:25:24 -0700 (PDT)
ReplyTo: usaafric...@googlegroups.com
Oluwatoyin Adepoju
Apr 21, 2013, 7:57:51 AM4/21/13
to usaafric...@googlegroups.com
My God!
Toyin
Toyin
On Fri, Apr 19, 2013 at 10:35 PM, La Vonda R. Staples <lrst...@gmail.com> wrote:
http://www.lavondastaples.com/2013/04/cancer-my-new-thing.html
Cancer: My New Thing
I thought by now I'd be deep into PR for my book of essays. Never thought that I would be busy filling out papers and applications to save my life. Not meaning the expression but factually to save my life. I have cancer in my gall bladder and liver. The jury is still out on my thyroid. Can't put a name on that until the next biopsy. For now we'll say that there are nine new little friends who have hitched a ride inside that gland. Their presence was not requested nor was it appreciated.
Cancer does not run in my family until very late in life. Really late for us. We live so long we consider seventy to be young. We have only had two cousins to die before the age of fifty. I will do all I can to not become number three.
In July 2012 I went out and got myself a physical. Healthy as an ox as usual. I didn't have no kind of nothing that I wasn't supposed to have. January 2013 I started to get sick and could not get well. Coughs. A cold. The flu. Congestion in my chest. I quit my cosmetics job in February and all symptoms went away except one. A nagging pain in my side.
I took a trip to the local emergency room and received a false diagnosis of UTI and a lecture from a nurse practitioner who didn't have time to put her hands on me and examine me before passing sentence. She told me that I had to wipe from front to back. I told her that I wipe sideways. She didn't appreciate my humor. She gave me antibiotics even though I protested loudly. Me and antibiotics really don't get along. True to form I got sicker during the single week I took this caustic stuff.
For some reason which shall always be unknown to me I didn't go to the free clinic for a follow up. I borrowed money to go and see a doctor who would take cash payments. He put his pleasantly warm hands on my belly. My liver was so swollen he could feel it. In an instant the first test was ordered. The ultrasound showed tumors on my liver, thyroid, and an abnormal gall bladder. The next test was a week later. Paid for it cash money, too! It was a CT scan. This one gave the diagnosis. Cancer of the gall bladder and liver. I was told that there was no point in discussing my thyroid because my other two errant organs needed attention as soon as possible. I wish the state health insurance folks would listen to my doctor.
I'm in a golden window of time where all my systems are still functioning. This is giving me time to run around like a maniac to all kinds of government office of which I previously was without knowledge. I'm glad I live in a country where we have these systems but I wish these systems were easier to negotiate.
I plan to seek treatment at a single location. I'm optimistic but I'm also realistic. I don't know how long my ability to handle my own affairs will last. No one can tell me why the bile ducts in my liver are still functioning normally. No one can tell me why my thyroid is not releasing in thyroid mishaps into my blood. No one can tell me if I'll wake up tomorrow and have jaundiced eyes in addition to the pain which keeps me from beginning my day until two or three hours after I've ceased to sleep.
I have to assume that each day that I'm able to take care of myself at home is a gift. I treat it as such. I complete what I can and plan what is left to be completed. That's the best I can do.
My life will never be the same after cancer. Today it's my firm belief that I will have a life after cancer. I believe I will go on and I will be stronger, more appreciative, and better after this. I believe that it was time for my lesson in the valley. I've always been a good student. I just wish this wasn't such a hard lesson to learn.
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Uyilawa Usuanlele
Apr 21, 2013, 1:58:02 PM4/21/13
to usaafric...@googlegroups.com
While we all join together to pray ceaselessly for sister La Vonda's healing, i also wish to enjoin all to support Julius Haruna's suggestion of some kind of fund to back up our prayers.
Uyilawa
Subject: Re: USA Africa Dialogue Series - Cancer: My New Thing by La Vonda R. Staples
amomo...@yahoo.com
Apr 21, 2013, 2:20:30 PM4/21/13
to Toyin Falola
I second Uyilawa's proposal. La Vonda has certainly carried herself with dignity and respect. She opened up to us to bear her heart and harrowing experience because she trust and have confidence in our community. We must push further the frontiers of her confidence in us. We do not expect that a request for money or financial assistance will come from her. We all know what cancer is and how it guzzles money, whether one has Health Insurance or not.
In the same spirit with which we support her with prayers, we should all contribute some money. I suspect people like Pablo Idahosa and Ken Harrow know her quite intimately. I urge them to help us out with bank details, by making the necessary contact. If they do not, anyone else should help out.
For us in far away Africa we will need Swift and Sort codes and street address of recipient.
One love.
Abu
In the same spirit with which we support her with prayers, we should all contribute some money. I suspect people like Pablo Idahosa and Ken Harrow know her quite intimately. I urge them to help us out with bank details, by making the necessary contact. If they do not, anyone else should help out.
For us in far away Africa we will need Swift and Sort codes and street address of recipient.
One love.
Abu
Sent from my BlackBerry wireless device from MTN
From: Uyilawa Usuanlele <big...@hotmail.com>
Sender: usaafric...@googlegroups.com
Date: Sun, 21 Apr 2013 13:58:02 -0400
amiol...@yahoo.co.uk
Apr 21, 2013, 2:57:46 PM4/21/13
to usaafric...@googlegroups.com
Your ability to put your thoughts and feelings in 'black and white' is simply awesome. I shall include your will to live beyond the experience of cancer in my prayer point as I raise the cup of salvation and call on the Lord's name (Ps. 116:13)
Joseph Oladejo Faniran PhD
Catholic Institute of West Africa
P. O. Box 499, Port Harcourt 500001
Rivers State, Nigeria
Joseph Oladejo Faniran PhD
Catholic Institute of West Africa
P. O. Box 499, Port Harcourt 500001
Rivers State, Nigeria
Sent from my BlackBerry wireless device from MTN
From: "joan.Osa Oviawe" <joano...@gmail.com>
Sender: usaafric...@googlegroups.com
Date: Sat, 20 Apr 2013 15:35:16 -0700
ReplyTo: usaafric...@googlegroups.com
Subject: Re: USA Africa Dialogue Series - Cancer: My New Thing by La Vonda R. Staples
Emeagwali, Gloria (History)
Apr 21, 2013, 7:43:17 PM4/21/13
to usaafric...@googlegroups.com
Good idea. Medical care is very expensive.I suggest that we channel contributions to
Prof. Falola within a 2- week period. He would then give La Vonda a money order.
I am contributing $100.
Professor Gloria Emeagwali
Prof. of History & African Studies
History Department
Central Connecticut State University
New Britain
CT 06050
________________________________
From: usaafric...@googlegroups.com [usaafric...@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of Uyilawa Usuanlele [big...@hotmail.com]
Sent: Sunday, April 21, 2013 1:58 PM
To: usaafric...@googlegroups.com
From: usaafric...@googlegroups.com<mailto:usaafric...@googlegroups.com> [usaafric...@googlegroups.com<mailto:usaafric...@googlegroups.com>] On Behalf Of shina7...@yahoo.com<mailto:shina7...@yahoo.com> [shina7...@yahoo.com<mailto:shina7...@yahoo.com>]
From: "La Vonda R. Staples" <lrst...@gmail.com<mailto:lrst...@gmail.com>>
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Prof. Falola within a 2- week period. He would then give La Vonda a money order.
I am contributing $100.
Professor Gloria Emeagwali
Prof. of History & African Studies
History Department
Central Connecticut State University
New Britain
CT 06050
________________________________
From: usaafric...@googlegroups.com [usaafric...@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of Uyilawa Usuanlele [big...@hotmail.com]
Sent: Sunday, April 21, 2013 1:58 PM
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Sent: Saturday, April 20, 2013 4:31 PM
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Date: Fri, 19 Apr 2013 14:35:08 -0700 (PDT)
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Subject: USA Africa Dialogue Series - Cancer: My New Thing by La Vonda R. Staples
http://www.lavondastaples.com/2013/04/cancer-my-new-thing.html
Cancer: My New Thing
I thought by now I'd be deep into PR for my book of essays. Never thought that I would be busy filling out papers and applications to save my life. Not meaning the expression but factually to save my life. I have cancer in my gall bladder and liver. The jury is still out on my thyroid. Can't put a name on that until the next biopsy. For now we'll say that there are nine new little friends who have hitched a ride inside that gland. Their presence was not requested nor was it appreciated.
Cancer does not run in my family until very late in life. Really late for us. We live so long we consider seventy to be young. We have only had two cousins to die before the age of fifty. I will do all I can to not become number three.
In July 2012 I went out and got myself a physical. Healthy as an ox as usual. I didn't have no kind of nothing that I wasn't supposed to have. January 2013 I started to get sick and could not get well. Coughs. A cold. The flu. Congestion in my chest. I quit my cosmetics job in February and all symptoms went away except one. A nagging pain in my side.
I took a trip to the local emergency room and received a false diagnosis of UTI and a lecture from a nurse practitioner who didn't have time to put her hands on me and examine me before passing sentence. She told me that I had to wipe from front to back. I told her that I wipe sideways. She didn't appreciate my humor. She gave me antibiotics even though I protested loudly. Me and antibiotics really don't get along. True to form I got sicker during the single week I took this caustic stuff.
For some reason which shall always be unknown to me I didn't go to the free clinic for a follow up. I borrowed money to go and see a doctor who would take cash payments. He put his pleasantly warm hands on my belly. My liver was so swollen he could feel it. In an instant the first test was ordered. The ultrasound showed tumors on my liver, thyroid, and an abnormal gall bladder. The next test was a week later. Paid for it cash money, too! It was a CT scan. This one gave the diagnosis. Cancer of the gall bladder and liver. I was told that there was no point in discussing my thyroid because my other two errant organs needed attention as soon as possible. I wish the state health insurance folks would listen to my doctor.
I'm in a golden window of time where all my systems are still functioning. This is giving me time to run around like a maniac to all kinds of government office of which I previously was without knowledge. I'm glad I live in a country where we have these systems but I wish these systems were easier to negotiate.
I plan to seek treatment at a single location. I'm optimistic but I'm also realistic. I don't know how long my ability to handle my own affairs will last. No one can tell me why the bile ducts in my liver are still functioning normally. No one can tell me why my thyroid is not releasing in thyroid mishaps into my blood. No one can tell me if I'll wake up tomorrow and have jaundiced eyes in addition to the pain which keeps me from beginning my day until two or three hours after I've ceased to sleep.
I have to assume that each day that I'm able to take care of myself at home is a gift. I treat it as such. I complete what I can and plan what is left to be completed. That's the best I can do.
My life will never be the same after cancer. Today it's my firm belief that I will have a life after cancer. I believe I will go on and I will be stronger, more appreciative, and better after this. I believe that it was time for my lesson in the valley. I've always been a good student. I just wish this wasn't such a hard lesson to learn.
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http://www.lavondastaples.com/2013/04/cancer-my-new-thing.html
Cancer: My New Thing
I thought by now I'd be deep into PR for my book of essays. Never thought that I would be busy filling out papers and applications to save my life. Not meaning the expression but factually to save my life. I have cancer in my gall bladder and liver. The jury is still out on my thyroid. Can't put a name on that until the next biopsy. For now we'll say that there are nine new little friends who have hitched a ride inside that gland. Their presence was not requested nor was it appreciated.
Cancer does not run in my family until very late in life. Really late for us. We live so long we consider seventy to be young. We have only had two cousins to die before the age of fifty. I will do all I can to not become number three.
In July 2012 I went out and got myself a physical. Healthy as an ox as usual. I didn't have no kind of nothing that I wasn't supposed to have. January 2013 I started to get sick and could not get well. Coughs. A cold. The flu. Congestion in my chest. I quit my cosmetics job in February and all symptoms went away except one. A nagging pain in my side.
I took a trip to the local emergency room and received a false diagnosis of UTI and a lecture from a nurse practitioner who didn't have time to put her hands on me and examine me before passing sentence. She told me that I had to wipe from front to back. I told her that I wipe sideways. She didn't appreciate my humor. She gave me antibiotics even though I protested loudly. Me and antibiotics really don't get along. True to form I got sicker during the single week I took this caustic stuff.
For some reason which shall always be unknown to me I didn't go to the free clinic for a follow up. I borrowed money to go and see a doctor who would take cash payments. He put his pleasantly warm hands on my belly. My liver was so swollen he could feel it. In an instant the first test was ordered. The ultrasound showed tumors on my liver, thyroid, and an abnormal gall bladder. The next test was a week later. Paid for it cash money, too! It was a CT scan. This one gave the diagnosis. Cancer of the gall bladder and liver. I was told that there was no point in discussing my thyroid because my other two errant organs needed attention as soon as possible. I wish the state health insurance folks would listen to my doctor.
I'm in a golden window of time where all my systems are still functioning. This is giving me time to run around like a maniac to all kinds of government office of which I previously was without knowledge. I'm glad I live in a country where we have these systems but I wish these systems were easier to negotiate.
I plan to seek treatment at a single location. I'm optimistic but I'm also realistic. I don't know how long my ability to handle my own affairs will last. No one can tell me why the bile ducts in my liver are still functioning normally. No one can tell me why my thyroid is not releasing in thyroid mishaps into my blood. No one can tell me if I'll wake up tomorrow and have jaundiced eyes in addition to the pain which keeps me from beginning my day until two or three hours after I've ceased to sleep.
I have to assume that each day that I'm able to take care of myself at home is a gift. I treat it as such. I complete what I can and plan what is left to be completed. That's the best I can do.
My life will never be the same after cancer. Today it's my firm belief that I will have a life after cancer. I believe I will go on and I will be stronger, more appreciative, and better after this. I believe that it was time for my lesson in the valley. I've always been a good student. I just wish this wasn't such a hard lesson to learn.
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Assensoh, Akwasi B.
Apr 22, 2013, 5:50:26 AM4/22/13
to usaafric...@googlegroups.com
Very Impressive! In fact, one can contribute even more, if we set up a Fund, as brilliantly suggested by "Chief" Julius and other kind-hearted colleagues. It will certainly be great if it is a tax-deductible Fund, instead of all of our precious direct and indirect tax dollars going to only Uncle Sam each April tax day! (with a chuckle)
A.B. Assensoh.
________________________________________
From: usaafric...@googlegroups.com [usaafric...@googlegroups.com] on behalf of Emeagwali, Gloria (History) [emea...@mail.ccsu.edu]
Sent: Sunday, April 21, 2013 7:43 PM
A.B. Assensoh.
________________________________________
From: usaafric...@googlegroups.com [usaafric...@googlegroups.com] on behalf of Emeagwali, Gloria (History) [emea...@mail.ccsu.edu]
Sent: Sunday, April 21, 2013 7:43 PM
Ikhide
Apr 21, 2013, 8:21:39 PM4/21/13
to usaafric...@googlegroups.com, usaafric...@googlegroups.com
I also pledge $100 to the effort. Happy to send my little contribution once I have an address!
- Ikhide
- Ikhide
Oluwatoyin Adepoju
Apr 22, 2013, 12:36:25 PM4/22/13
to usaafric...@googlegroups.com
Memorable:
For now we'll say that there are nine new little friends who have hitched a ride inside that gland.
For now we'll say that there are nine new little friends who have hitched a ride inside that gland.
My life will never be the same after cancer. Today it's my firm belief
that I will have a life after cancer. I believe I will go on and I will
be stronger, more appreciative, and better after this. I believe that
it was time for my lesson in the valley. I've always been a good
student. I just wish this wasn't such a hard lesson to learn.
On Mon, Apr 22, 2013 at 5:34 PM, Oluwatoyin Adepoju <ovad...@gmail.com> wrote:
Wonderful sisterhood and brotherhood.
toyin
Oluwatoyin Adepoju
Apr 22, 2013, 12:34:53 PM4/22/13
to usaafric...@googlegroups.com
Wonderful sisterhood and brotherhood.
toyin
toyin
On Mon, Apr 22, 2013 at 1:21 AM, Ikhide <xok...@yahoo.com> wrote:
Chiedo Nwankwor
Apr 22, 2013, 1:16:19 PM4/22/13
to usaafric...@googlegroups.com
Dear La Vonda,
We join our faith with yours in praying that you overcome this sickness real soon. Your fighting spirit will shine bright to victory.
Best,
Chiedo Nwankwor
Kevin Ibeh
Apr 22, 2013, 3:44:11 PM4/22/13
to usaafric...@googlegroups.com, usaafric...@googlegroups.com
Yes colleagues, let's keep this going. I also pledge $100 to the Fighting Fund.
Kevin
Sent from my iPhone
Kevin
Sent from my iPhone
La Vonda R. Staples
Apr 22, 2013, 4:20:15 PM4/22/13
to usaafric...@googlegroups.com
At first when I read AB's proposal I was horrified. I didn't ever want anyone to think that I was writing, openly or covertly, for material gain. I was just trying to find a way, find my way, through this life event.
My next feeling was an overwhelming sense of gratitude that someone would have a desire, a yearning, a need to help another human being. I have seen too little of that in my life.
Then I spoke with a great sister, Dr. Gloria, she told me, "this is the African way." So my horror was relative to the way with which I'm most familiar: the American way. This means that people give, not to help, but to receive a tax credit, thereby causing huge problems for those who are receivers as the giver gets a credit while the donation is seen as income for the give-ee.
I'm going to take a step out on faith and for once, be humble,. If anyone would like to send a donation please make it in the form of a money order. I have a post office box so that I do not have to make my home address public. It is as follows:
La Vonda R. Staples
Post Office Box 123
St. Louis MO 63042
Please do not make this any bigger than it has to be. To be blunt, I made less than poverty wages last year. However, the fund for which I am applying in order to receive full medical treatment without a bill requires that those accepted make less than 23,000 in 2012. I'm dangerously close to that line. Further, it is a certainty that I will undergo chemotherapy and this generally entails a period of six months to 12 months when one cannot work I had to apply and be turned down for Medicaid in order to apply to the cancer center. In my state, Missouri, one cannot apply for Medicaid without first making an application for Social Security Income. This is a condition of receiving medical assistance in Missouri.
With all of these applications in the pending process I hope it is understandable that I am afraid of any type of assistance which comes in the form of a check, requires information such as a tax ID (re: social security number) or that the giver feels the need to report on his/her 2013 taxes.
Please understand that I am not a beggar. I do not seek assistance. I admit that I am in a precipitous state. I accept that God puts goodness in peoples' hearts to help those who need assistance. I am simply writing to give more illumination regarding my fear of any formal creation of a fund.
Thank you again,
La Vonda R. Staples
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