Monday, June 22, 2009

I was recently contacted by the National Awareness Coordinator for the Mesothelioma Cancer Center. Asbestos.com asked me to post this important information regarding asbestos exposure.

Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a cancer that develops in the mesothelial cells that line many organs and body cavities. With this type of cancer, cells of the mesothelium become abnormal and divide uncontrollably and without order. They can attack and harm nearby tissues and organs. Most cases of mesothelioma begin in the thoracic cavity (pleura) or the abdominal cavity (peritoneum).

One of the only known causes of mesothelioma is exposure to a mineral known as asbestos. Asbestos was in widespread use throughout most of the 20th century in a number of military and industrial applications. The primary uses included insulation, brake lining, flooring and piping. Asbestos was valued so highly because of its durable and fire-resistant qualities.

A large majority of houses built before 1980 also contain asbestos insulation. The substance is harmless if left undisturbed, but once it is damaged or deteriorated it releases microscopic asbestos fibers into the air which can then be easily inhaled or ingested. Most mesothelioma cases caused by asbestos can be traced back to military or occupational exposure. The most common occupations affected by asbestos include firefighters, electricians and auto mechanics. Secondhand exposure is also a risk for families of those who worked with asbestos. The fibers can attach themselves to clothing and be brought home to the worker’s family.

Unfortunately, effective treatment of mesothelioma is not very common. The reason for this is that malignant mesothelioma has an unusually long latency period. It normally takes anywhere from 25 to 50 years for noticeable symptoms to show up. Because of this, mesothelioma is not typically diagnosed until its later stages when treatment options become more limited.

As stated before, mesothelioma is most treatable when caught early so if you are aware that you have been exposed to asbestos at any point in your life, it is important that you let your doctor know so that you can be monitored for any asbestos related illnesses.


Friday, June 12, 2009


Dear Family and Friends,

I hope that this update finds you healthy and happy.

Shortly after my move to New Mexico, I was awarded a grant from The SAMFund, a scholarship fund for young cancer survivors. This grant paid my rent for six months, while I got on my feet in a new city. To date, The SAMFund has awarded a total of $400,000 to close to 200 individuals across the country.

Here, you can find the link to the list of 2008 recipients: The SAMFund

I know that during these financial times, we are all thinking about money... but, I want to thank all of you that contributed to my fundraising efforts for breast cancer last year and/or my roommate Emily's efforts in support of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. While we often wonder where our money is going when we make a donation to cancer "research," I can attest to you that it is your donations that make scholarships and grants for cancer survivors possible. As a person who knows a lot about debt (ie: student loans), I have come to learn that medical debt is very real for the majority of us.

Thanks again for all of your contributions.

Hugs,
patty

Personal update: I have successfully completed my first year of my dual-master's degree track at the University of New Mexico in Latin American Studies and Community & Regional Planning (a 3-year plan). I am looking forward to my last follow up scan in July 2009. Afterwards, I will continue to have CT scans once every three years. After two trips home to be with family and friends, I plan to return to Buenos Aires for a conference relating to my thesis research on self-governance and alternative economies.