Great results from my latest Prostate biopsy!!

Hello everyone,

I got great results from my biopsy last Friday! The tumor that the Dr saw in my June MRI was the same low grade, non-aggressive type cancer as the original biopsy in 2014.  Due to what he saw in the June MRI, he had expected a higher grade, more aggressive cancer to be found.  We also discovered that I have 2 genetic markers which explain the presence of my cancer.  My PTEN marker, which normal;y works to suppress tumors, is under-expressed, and my ERT marker, which can contribute to disorganized and malformed cells (aka cancer) in the prostate, is over-expressed.

This doesn’t necessarily mean that I’m going to develop any more cancer, but does mean that I’ve got to keep a close eye on it, and I’ve also got to do everything I can to help my body compensate for its genetic deficiencies.  I faithfully believe that God has shown me how to overcome this “condition” and I plan to proceed with my natural treatments.

Thanks to everyone who took the time to pray for me, my condition and my family during this time.  Please continue to keep me in your prayers, that I would be faithful to what God has shown me, and I would be persistent and consistent in taking the steps necessary to help my body overcome my genetic flaws.

Be blessed,

Tom Sexton

Went in for the 3T MRI guided biopsy on Monday

Monday morning I got up bright and early to drive to Chattanooga for a 3T MRI guided biopsy by Dr. Joseph Busch.   As usual, his staff was very cordial and professional.  The biopsy is to gather samples from a clinically significant spot that Dr Busch saw on my MRI back in June.  He stuck it 4 times, and jokingly said "I think I stuck it enough times to get most of it out".  :-)  He is sending the samples off to get the diagnosis, and has also asked them for the PTEN and ERG values of the samples.

I'm on my last day of antibiotics today, with no ill effects.  After the infection I got from my last biopsy, I was a little wary.  Of course, riding a bike the day after my last biopsy probably didn't help any, but I've learned my lesson.

I should have the results back in a day or so, and will follow up with posting the results.

Be blessed,
Tom

The Bioactivity of Essential Oils

This article explains how Oils have the ability to cross cell membranes and provide benefits directly to the cell.  This helps to overcome problems caused when the cell membrane transport mechanisms are suboptimal. 

Excerpt:

   Two features of essential oils enable them to be able to passively diffuse:

1. Lipid solubility
2. Small molecular size

   The cellular membrane is composed of lipids. Because essential oils are lipid soluble          and small, they have no problem crossing the membrane.

http://doterrascienceblog.com/bioactivity-of-essential-oils/

No claims, just facts!

Since everyone seems to be in an uproar these days regarding "claims" being made for alternative remedies to cancer, I thought I'd go on record as claiming that I'm not "claiming" anything except my belief that God created us "in His image", which for me means that he equipped our bodies to regulate and heal themselves given the proper raw materials and conditions.

Here are the facts, jack!  You can draw your own conclusions.

May, 2014

• Discovered that PSA was 4.07. It had been gradually climbing for the last 2 years, so we decided to do a biopsy (TRUS guided)

Aug, 2014   Diagnosed with Prostate Cancer. 

• My biopsy included 12 cores, and revealed that my cancer is rated T1C, with a Gleason Score of (3+3=6) with 6 cores containing cancer. 
  
  
  The cores were as follows:
  
  
  Left side:
  90%, 40%, 30%, 5%
  
  
  Right side:
  5%, 5%

Sep, 2014   

• For 20 days I took daily doses of Haelen 951. 
• I changed (ie improved) my lifestyle with the following changes:
• Strenuous exercise at least 5 days a week
• Daily consumption of vitamins to help meet my nutritional needs

Oct, 2014 

• On Oct 10, my PSA reading was 4.29.
• I started consuming daily doses of several Essential Oils

Nov, 2014

• 1.5T MRI
• There is a 1.0 x 0.6 cm focal area of decreased T2 signal within the left posterior aspect of the peripheral zone of the prostate at the mid portion on image 18 of series 19.  There is no definite extracapsular spread of disease.  No involvement of the neurovascular bundle demonstrated.  There is focal enhancement corresponding to the area of prostate signal abnormality.  Overall, the prostate measures 4.8x3.5 cm.

Feb, 2015

• PSA is now 1.68

June, 2015

• June 3, PSA is 2.11
• June 10, 3T MRI
• Prostate Measurements:  transverse 4.9cm, sagittal 5.2 cm and anterior posterior 3.0 cm
• T2W imaging of the peripheral zone demonstrates a concordant 13mm x 9mm x 11mm focal abnormality in the left posterior lateral base adjacent to the left neurovascular bundle.  The irregularity of the capsule and the 10 mm contact with the capsule suggest microcapsular invasion at this site. The neurovascular bundle is not encompassed by the tumor.  The focal abnormality in the peripheral zone demonstrates restricted diffusion demonstrating low ADC values 450 to 700.  There is no high signal intensity on b 1400 imaging but there is focal enhancement with DCE imaging.
• T2W imaging of the transitional zone demonstrates poorly organized BPH nodules in a normal size gland.
• DWI demonstrates restricted diffusion in the left posterior lateral base with low ADC values compatible with intermediate grade disease but no high signal intensity on b 1400 imaging.
• DCE imaging demonstrates an asymmetrical type II curve lies to concordant focal abnormality in the left posterior lateral base.
• No seminal vesicle extension, no pathological lymphadenopathy and no bone metastasis.
• PI-RADS Category 4: Clinically significant cancer is likely to be present.
• Due to "clinically significant cancer" findings, I will be getting a biopsy at a later date.  Due to all of the other positive factors, it doesn't have to be right away.

Oct, 2015

• PSA is 1.72

Dec, 2015

• 3T MRI planned for Dec 7.

I'm feeling great, and fully expect the results of the Dec MRI to indicate no or less cancer tissue than we saw in June.

Be blessed,
Tom

Latest PSA results are even better than the last! 1.72

Almost 14 months ago I was informed that I had Prostate Cancer.  My PSA level was 4.29 with 6 of 12 biopsy cores  indicating cancerous tissue.  The Medical community immediately recommended surgery, radiation, or drugs.

I'm happy to say that as of yesterday, my PSA is down to 1.72 (from 2.11 on prev  quarter's test) and that my cancer, if any still exists, is NOT a part of my life!  I believe that God designed our bodies with the capacity to heal itself, given the proper Faith, raw materials and  environment.  My regimen of Essential Oils, vitamins and regular exercise will always be a part of my life as I fully believe that they have enabled my body to return to the healthy condition that He originally blessed me with.

I still plan on an MRI targeted biopsy before the end of the year to check the status of one spot that the radiologist was concerned about back in July, but I'm fully expecting that "spot" to be gone when he goes looking for something to sample!

There's a new Oster in town! The old blender finally kicked the bucket.

Well, my old Oster blender of at least 15 years finally kicked the bucket the other day.  My first thought was to rush out and get a new Ninja blender, as my parents and friends like theirs, and I've seen so many commercials for them recently on TV.

As I'm standing in Walmart though, looking at the Ninja Blenders, the thought crosses my mind....

Why am I considering paying $99 for an entry level Ninja, when a top of the line Oster is only $60. Plus my old Oster had served me well for so many faithful years, AND, I'd be able to use the glass jar and blades from my old Oster on the new one (btw I had just purchased new blades for the old Oster hoping it would help the blending, but in the end, the motor finally gave out).

So I ended up with the Oster Designed for Life 7-Speed Blender, Brushed Stainless, BLSTRM-DZ0-015

It has a 6 cup glass jar, 600 watts of power, and a 5 Year Satisfaction Guarantee Warranty.  I use it at least 5 days a week to make shakes for breakfast.  1 push of the "Chop" setting takes care of the hard stuff (apples, carrots, frozen berries), and then a spin on the 'Frozen drink' setting finishes it up.  I like the fact that it also has 2 separate pulse options, one for high speed, and one for low speed.  The Chop setting also looks like it would make some good salsa, but I haven't tried that out yet. The other speed choices are low, med and high, but who needs 14 different speeds to blend something anyway? :) 

If you need a good strong blender, with a glass jar, and good warranty, I'd highly recommend this Oster.

Latest PSA numbers still good!

Last week I went in for my annual physical.  My PSA is now 2.11, up a little from the last test, but still in good shape. I'm still taking my EOs 5 times a day, vitamins with every meal, and working out 5 times a week, and still feeling great!!  Beats the heck out of worrying about post operative side effects from the RP that my Urologist wanted to perform.

These PSA results help confirm my plans to hold off on the next MRI until around Jan, 2016, and then do a biopsy, if necessary.

Thanks for all the prayers and good wishes!!

Be blessed,
Tom

Prolaris Test Results

Hi everyone,

During my last visit to my Urologist (when we "discussed" the fact that my PSA had dropped dramatically), the Dr recommended a Prolaris Biopsy test be performed.

I got the results back today, and honestly don't know what to think. At first I was bummed. Scoring a 0 on a test is usually not good.  Then I looked at the score explanation.  The results range down into the negative range (-2.3 to be exact).  Dang, I guess I should be even more bummed..... but I'm not!! :)

The chart explanation indicates this:

• The above chart illustrates the AUA Low Rick category, which is composed of patients with varying degrees of cancer aggressiveness.  Cancer aggressiveness can be stratified within the category based upon Prolairs Scores, which are indicated below the graph.

So is the chart basically showing different "aggression" levels of low risk cancer?  If so, what's the difference between a non-aggressive low risk cancer and an aggressive low risk cancer?

My Dr has reviewed the report, and per the nurse, his suggestion was to read it myself and if I had questions to schedule an appointment. I interpret that as his not being concerned about the results.

I've attached the report below, and here are my thoughts/questions:

1. Does my "More Aggressive" rating still fall within a characterization of "Low Risk"?  Is my cancer considered 'low risk' but more aggressive than other low risk cancer, or 'more aggressive' (ie not low risk)? 
2. The scores on the line are based on a median Prolaris Score as of April 10, 2013.  Really? This is a "cutting edge" report and they're still using results from 2+ years ago?
3. I'm given a 6% Mortality Risk at the 10 year mark, if managed conservatively.  What exactly is 'managed conservatively'? Does that mean I've undergone surgery, radiation, etc, or that I've just assumed a more healthy lifestyle and performed active surveillance?
4. What exactly do I do with a 6% change that I'll die in 10 years from prostate cancer (if managed conservatively aka no medical treatment)? 
5. What the heck is a CAPRA score?  I've been researching Prostate Cancer for 6 months and this is the first mention I've heard of it. My score is appartenly 5, which equates to 'intermediate risk', which is supposed to, but doesn't, align with my Prolaris assessment of 'low risk'.  BTW, you can find your CAPRA score here: https://urology.ucsf.edu/research/cancer/prostate-cancer-risk-assessment-and-the-ucsf-capra-score 

At this point, I don't really know whether to feel good or bad about these results. Another challenge I have with this report, is that its Gleason score differs from my 2 original biopsy analyses (one by Johns Hopkins). I'm looking forward to my 3T MP MRI next Tues to determine if I still need to be worried about cancer.

Oh, and the Prolaris report also listed by Gleason Score as 4+2.  Both the initial biopsy and 2nd opinion by Johns Hopkins indicated a 3+3.  Not exactly sure what to think about that.

Be blessed and thanks for tuning in,

Tom

More evidence that Essential Oils can play a role in cancer treatments

Hey folks,

Check out this article, Exploitation of Cytotoxicity of Some Essential Oils for Translation in Cancer Therapy, posted in Feb of 2015.  

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4334976/# 


BTW, Cytotoxicity is the quality of being toxic to cells. In the article, scientists explain how some Essential Oils are toxic to cancer cells, yet harmless to normal cells.

They also point out the Antitumoral Activity of selected Essential Oils.

The following quotes are very inspiring!

"From the available literature essential oils seem to have a great potential as anticancer therapeutic agents; "

"Although, from the data reviewed in this paper, the use of essential oils in cancer therapy is very promising,,,,"

As usual, this information does not constitute medical advice, so please do your own research and make your own personal decisions before determining a treatment for your cancer.

Be blessed,
Tom

Hmmmm

I've just returned from my latest Urologist appt to discuss my prostate cancer, during which he gave me his assessment of my PSA dropping from 4.29 to 1.38 in the last 8 months. His reply was "Hmmm, what kind of treatment have you been doing to achieve this? " I told him, and he added it to his notes. That was the end of that conversation.  He suggested that the next step would be biopsy.

I had read about the MRI guided biopsy that is being done at the University of Birmingham, and asked him what he thought. He agreed that a biopsy would be the next step, and referred me to Dr Joe Busch in Chattanooga. When asked whether he thought the cancer might be gone, he indicated that it's probably still there, but just not "active" and that after the biopsy, we'd still need to discuss what, if any, type of medical treatment I should consider.



We also agreed to have genetic testing done by Prolaris.  I have done some research on Genomic testing, but will have to spend some time on this one.  The test is supposed to tell how agressive the cancer is, in order to determine how quickly action, if necessary, needs to be taken to address it.  The test will be done on my initial biopsy, from back in August, 2014. I initially thought maybe we should get the test done on the latest biopsy, but I'm claiming that it won't find any, so the only test that could be done would be on the initial biopsy.

I'm sticking with my theory that the cancer is totally gone, and this is no longer a concern!! 

Natural Cancer Treatments in the News

While medical advances are being made, it seems, almost daily, investigation in natural treatments for cancer is growing too!  These treatments aren't backed (yet) by clinical trials, multi-billion dollar pharma companies, or the majority of Drs but they're gaining recognition.

And by treatment, I don't mean a 'guarantee to cure to eliminate' your cancer.  While some natural treatments are in fact being looked at as cures (and have reportedly worked for some), many more can supplement your medical treatments, speeding the recovery, or at least improving the quality of life during the treatment.

Here are some of the latest I've noticed, and before you write them off as "quackery", remember that treating cancerous organs rather than cutting them out was once considered ludicrous too.


Exercise:

Article: For Prostate Cancer, Referral-Based Exercise Program Beneficial:
Link: http://www.cancertherapyadvisor.com/prostate-cancer-exercise-clinician-referral-treatment/article/409738/

Excerpt:
For men with prostate cancer, clinician referral to and participation in an exercise program has a positive impact on mental health, according to a study published in Cancer.
--------------------------------------------------
Article: For Prostate Cancer, Referral-Based Exercise Program Beneficial:
Link: http://www.cancertherapyadvisor.com/prostate-cancer-exercise-clinician-referral-treatment/article/409738/

Excerpt:
For men with prostate cancer, clinician referral to and participation in an exercise program has a positive impact on mental health, according to a study published in Cancer.

--------------------------------------------------
Article: Walking improves health outcomes for prostate cancer survivors
Link: http://www.upi.com/Health_News/2015/04/17/Walking-improves-health-outcomes-for-prostate-cancer-survivors/1111429278465/?spt=su

Excerpt:
"... according to new research, something as simple as walking three hours per week can make a significant difference."

Foods:
--------------------------------------------------
Article: Swedish study explains coffee cancer link
Link: http://www.thelocal.se/20150418/swedish-study-explains-coffee-cancer-link#.VTJVjPQ4ULE.twitter

Excerpt:
"The caffeine turns off the signal paths to breast cancer cells. This results in slower cell proliferation and increased cell death," said Ann Rosendahl, a researcher at Lund University and co-author of the recent report detailing how coffee protects against breast cancer recurrence.

The report has just been published in the medical journal Clinical Cancer Research.

Natural Supplements:

--------------------------------------------------
Article: Mistletoe: The holiday plant is making headlines as an alternative cancer treatment
Link: http://www.oncologynurseadvisor.com/mistletoe-the-holiday-plant-is-making-headlines-as-an-alternative-cancer-treatment/article/391492/

Excerpt:
An oncologist at Johns Hopkins successfully treated a patient who had advanced colon cancer with an extract of the seasonal botanical, sparking interest in the plant's anticancer properties.

--------------------------------------------------
Article: Vitamin D and prostate cancer: Higher intake improves active surveillance outcomes
Link: http://www.oncologynurseadvisor.com/vitamin-d-and-prostate-cancer-higher-intake-improves-active-surveillance-outcomes/article/409401/

Excerpt:
The group concluded that men with low-risk prostate cancer who are undergoing active surveillance might derive benefit from taking 4,000 IU of vitamin D3 per day, without experiencing side effects from the treatment. A randomized trial is currently underway to further explore these observations. Hollis said that vitamin D is now widely used in the urology service at the Medical University of South Carolina, demonstrating how the studies have impacted clinical practice

--------------------------------------------------
Article: Vitamin D May Keep the Lid on Prostate Cancer
Link: http://www.peoplespharmacy.com/2015/04/09/vitamin-d-may-keep-the-lid-on-prostate-cancer/

Excerpt:
Some men diagnosed with low-grade prostate cancer may be able to keep it from progressing by taking extra vitamin D.

--------------------------------------------------
Article: Vitamin D can boost the immune system against colorectal cancer
Link: http://www.oncologynurseadvisor.com/vitamin-d-can-boost-the-immune-system-against-colorectal-cancer/article/395554/

Excerpt:
The research, published in the journal Gut (2015; doi:10.1136/gutjnl-2014-308852), represents the first time that a link between vitamin D and the immune response to cancer has been shown in a large human population.

Others:
--------------------------------------------------
Article: Artificial Sweetener Saccharin Shows Promise In Cancer Treatment
Link: http://www.letlifehappen.com/2015/04/05/artificial-sweetener-saccharin-shows-promise-in-cancer-treatment/

Excerpt:
You may have heard whispers that the artificial sweetener saccharin (commonly known as Sweet‘N Low) is a carcinogen. But according to a new study presented today at the 249th National Meeting & Exposition of the American Chemical Society, it could actually be useful in developing treatments for aggressive cancers by deactivating a protein found to facilitate the spread of cancer

--------------------------------------------------
Article: 20 Medical Studies That Show Cannabis Can Be A Potential Cure Cancer
Link: http://www.collective-evolution.com/2013/08/23/20-medical-studies-that-prove-cannabis-can-cure-cancer/

Excerpt:
Below are 20 medical studies that suggest cannabis can be an effective treatment and possible cure for cancer. This is a good starting point for the push for further human clinical trials.

If you've noticed an article or study that you'd feel would help others, please fell free to post it here!

Be Blessed,
Tom

Disclaimer:  This information is based on links to content I do not own, but have posted to help bring attention to, in order to broaden people's thinking about how to deal with the condition of cancer.

Can you afford to ignore the potential?

In my research for natural ways to treat my cancer, I've come across many abstracts documenting theories, usually with evidence, that Essential Oils (EOs) have an positive effect on cancer cells (ie bad for cancer, good for us).  Many abstracts I've read indicate a high probability of producing a treatment, and end with a recommendation that further clinical research be done.

I have not included any references to claims made by companies trying to sell products in any way, shape or form.

One thing that really encouraged me is that, in any of these abstracts, I haven't seen any documentation of possible side effects, or negative effects of these natural substance.  I've also tried to find known side effects of EOs, and haven't been able to.

For me, I couldn't find any reason not to give some of the EOs a try, and I've been extremely pleased with the effect that they, along with exercise and good vitamins, have had on my PSA levels.  I hope to soon verify whether the cancer has been eliminated or significantly reduced in my prostate.

Here are some examples of abstracts about ingredients/substances found in EOs that helped me.

Abstract:Oct, 2014
Anticancer activities of essential oils constituents and synergy with conventional therapies: a review.

Excerpt:

Many studies have shown that a large number of terpenoids and aromatic compounds contained in essential oils have significant anticancer activities, both on cell lines and on tumors in animals.

Link: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24831562

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Abstract:Dec, 2011
Boswellia sacra essential oil (aka Frankincense) induces tumor cell-specific apoptosis and suppresses tumor aggressiveness in cultured human breast cancer cells.

Excerpt:

Similar to our previous observations in human bladder cancer cells, Boswellia sacra essential oil induces breast cancer cell-specific cytotoxicity. Suppression of cellular network formation and disruption of spheroid development of breast cancer cells by Boswellia sacra essential oil suggest that the essential oil may be effective for advanced breast cancer. Consistently, the essential oil represses signaling pathways and cell cycle regulators that have been proposed as therapeutic targets for breast cancer.

Link:http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22171782

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Abstract:Mar, 2015
Cycloartan-24-ene-1α,2α,3β-triol, a cycloartane-type triterpenoid from the resinous exudates of Commiphoramyrrha (aka Myrrh), induces apoptosis in human prostatic cancer PC-3 cells.

Excerpt
These findings indicate that MY-1 exerts significantly pro-apoptotic activity against human hormone-independent prostatic cancer and support MY-1 as a potential anticancer drug.

Link: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25591732

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Abstract: June, 2014
Essential oils and their constituents as anticancer agents: a mechanistic view

Excerpt
EOs from different plants have been reported to have anticancer potential against mouth, breast, lung, prostate, liver cancer, colon cancer, and brain cancer and even in leukemia [23–28]. Not only EOs but their constituents like Carvacrol [29], d-limonene [30], Geraniols [31–33], Myrcene [34, 35], perillyl alcohol (POH) [36], α-humulene [37], β-caryophyllene [38], Thymol [39, 40], Citral [41], and others have also been reported to possess cytotoxic effect on the cancer cell lines and in vivo studies.

Link: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4070586/


-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Abstract: 2015
Activities of ten essential oils towards Propionibacterium acnes and PC-3, A-549 and MCF-7 cancer cells.

Excerpt
A growing body of scientific reports has recently focused on the potential of essential oils as anticancer treatment in the attempt to overcome the development of multidrug resistance and important side effects associated with the antitumor drugs currently used.

Link: http://www.hindawi.com/journals/ecam/2015/397821/
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The website http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/  has a wealth of information, and a good search feature. I encourage you to visit it, and see if it can offer any information that may help you in your efforts to address a form of cancer.

These any many more abstracts and "scientific" papers can be found supporting the investigation of using natural substances to treat cancer.  There are also recent papers out even indicating that exercise is healthy, and could benefit treatment regimens.  Yes, that was meant to be sarcastic. :)  I'm still trying to figure out when we started needing scientists to tell us that physical activity was good for the body.

What do all these scientific terms mean????   I'm not going to claim to know, but I'd ask you to think about what is leading scientists and researchers to investigate treatments from natural substances.  In my case, I already have my opinion, based on experience! :) 

Even more encouraging is the fact that scientists are now leaning towards Immunotherapy (helping the body's immune system cure itself) as the next big cancer treatment.  I'll let you determine your own interpretations, but many of the abstracts and articles on EOs document the properties of the oils that contribute to the body's own natural cellular functions, such as apoptosis, or programmed cell death.  Other characteristics of EOs are Cytotoxicity, or the quality of being toxic to cells [cancer cells, not normal cells, in these cases].

Hopefully something here will help you in your quest to address a cancer that is affecting your life!  I feel that God has blessed us with bodies that can heal themselves, and sometimes we just have to give them additional help in order to overcome all the unhealthy things that we've been breathing, eating and living around all our lives.

DISCLAIMER:  None of the information provided here is meant to be medical advice.  I've documented other sources of information that I've found, and my direct experiences, but do NOT guarantee that what I've accomplished will work for you.

Belief!

The greatest force in the human body is 
the natural drive of the body to heal itself - but that force is not independent of the belief system. 
Everything begins with belief. 
What we believe is the most powerful option of all.

- Norman Cousins

PSA IS DOWN ANOTHER .3 TO 1.38!!!

Hi everyone,

Just got an awesome report from my Urologist!  My PSA level is down to 1.38!!  Praise God for giving us bodies that can heal themselves, if we take proper care of them.

To recap:

My PSA history is as follows:

2007:  2.55

2009:  3.1

2010 : 2.4

2011:  2.68 (this is where it started creeping up)

2012:  3.8 in Jan, 2.5 in Oct

2013:  2.86 in May, 3.8 in Nov

2014:  4.07 in May, (this lead to biopsy in Aug, which confirmed the cancer)

2014:  4.29 in Oct

After changing my lifestyle with the treatment listed below:

2015:  Feb 17th    1.68

2015:  April 9th     1.38

My treatment for Prostate Cancer has been as follows:

• Fervent daily prayer for healing!
• In the morning with a small glass of the protein shake mentioned below:
  4 drops of each: Frankincense, Myrrh, Grapefruit and Wild Orange Essential Oils.
  I plan to cut back to 2 drops once I've determined that the cancer is gone.
• With each meal:  (all Vitamins from Nutrilite) Multivitamin + Omega3 supplement + Calcium + Vitamin D + Saw Palmetto + encapsulated EOs (Frankincense, Wild Orange, Lemongrass, Thyme + some others)
• Right before bedtime in a glass of juice or water:
  4 drops of each: Frankincense, Myrrh, Grapefruit and Wild Orange Essential Oils.
  I plan to cut back to 2 drops once I've determined that the cancer is gone.
• Strenuous exercise 4-5 times a week to start my day
• After exercising, I consume a protein shake including Nutrilite Chocolate Protein powder, 1 Clementine orange, 1 banana, 1/2 cup frozen blueberries, 1/2 cup strawberries, 1 XS Strawberry +  Burn energy drink,  a handful of spinach leaves, a handful of kale leaves.

Official report!

DISCLAIMER:  None of the information provided here is meant to be medical advice.  I've documented other sources of information that I've found, and my direct experiences, but do NOT guarantee that what I've accomplished will work for you.

Time for PSA test

Heading to Dr. office for quarterly PSA test.  Will meet with him in 2 weeks to get his assessment of my situation. Praying to get a diagnosis of "remission"!

Be blessed,
Tom

Do you wonder too?

Today I went to see an Orthopedic Dr for pain that I'm having in my right hand fingers and right forearm.   Even though my cancer was in my prostate region, and the pain is in limbs a long way from there, and I fully believe that I've eliminated the prostate cancer from my system,  that still small doubt creeps in and says "What if your cancer has metastasized to your bones?

Is this the way it will be going forward, always wondering.... Is it the cancer or something else?

I'm currently scheduled for an MRI to verify the Dr's theory that there's a pinched, or otherwise compromised nerve in my spine/neck area that is causing the pain.  All of the symptoms point to that region. More to come later.

Be blessed,
Tom

Why you should ask for an MRI to look for cancer!!

There have been cases where multiple biopsies were performed, and they STILL didn't manage to find the cancer that was there.

Some other links on the use of MRIs to assess cancer:

http://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info.cfm?pg=breastbimr

https://ccr.cancer.gov/urologic-oncology-branch?qt-lab_branch_patient_tabs=7#qt-lab_branch_patient_tabs

http://www.epostersonline.com/focther2011/?q=node/1597

http://newsroom.ucla.edu/releases/prostate-cancer-now-detectable-241575

http://www.uab.edu/news/focus-on-patient-care/item/5439-new-hope-for-potential-prostate-cancer-patients

https://health.ucsd.edu/news/releases/Pages/2014-08-12-mri-guided-prostate-biopsy.aspx

I personally had an MRI performed to determine whether my Prostate Cancer has metastasized outside of the prostate. I'm glad to say that the finding was the it was local to the prostate!!

What's the deal with the PSA test?

Guys, read this, especially if you've had a Radical Prostatectomy

A new study published in European Urology indicates that genomic study can predict rapid metastatic disease in node-negative, high-risk men managed by radical prostatectomy without adjuvant therapy.

Although rapid metastasis in men treated with radical prostatectomy is relatively uncommon, using tumor genomics to identify these men who have a highly lethal form of metastatic disease is an important advance.

http://genomedx.com/press-releases/study-published-european-urology-shows-decipher-prostate-cancer-classifier-predictive-rapid-metastasis-high-risk-men-prostate-surgery/ 

New findings on the effects of Omega fatty acids on prostate cancer tissue

A recently published study further supports the idea that fatty acids can fight prostate cancer.

Mar 18, 2015:  How fatty acids can fight prostate cancer
 

Summary:

A mechanism by which omega-3 fatty acids inhibit the growth and spread of prostate cancer cells has been found by researchers. The findings, which are at odds with a 2013 study asserting that omega-3s increase the risk of prostate cancer, point the way to more effective anti-cancer drugs.

Source:

Washington State University. "How fatty acids can fight prostate cancer." ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, 18 March 2015. <www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/03/150318074521.htm>.

Previous studies:

Nov 18, 2013:    "Low-fat fish oil changes cancer tissue in prostate cancer, study shows."

Summary: 

Men with prostate cancer who ate a low-fat diet and took fish oil supplements had lower levels of pro-inflammatory substances in their blood and a lower cell cycle progression score, a measure used to predict cancer recurrence, than men who ate a typical Western diet, researchers found.

Source:

University of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences. "Low-fat fish oil changes cancer tissue in prostate cancer, study shows." ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, 18 November 2013. <www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/11/131118133048.htm>.

Oct 26, 2011: "You are what you eat: Low fat diet with fish oil slows growth of human prostate cancer cells, study suggests."

Summary:

A low-fat diet with fish oil supplements eaten for four to six weeks prior to prostate removal slowed down the growth of prostate cancer cells -- the number of rapidly dividing cells -- in human prostate cancer tissue compared to a traditional, high-fat Western diet, according to a new study.

Source:  University of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences. "You are what you eat: Low fat diet with fish oil slows growth of human prostate cancer cells, study suggests." ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, 26 October 2011. <www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/10/111025135931.htm>.

We're now live on Twitter!

Please follow me at @NoPC4Tom

Be blessed,
Tom

Immunotherapy, medical vs natural

There's something I just can't understand.

When big pharma touts a new drug that helps the immune system fight off cancer, everybody gets excited, it gets tons of media coverage, and people are "waiting in line" to try it. But when someone mentions that a natural oil, which has been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years, with no known side effects, that helps the body's immune system fight off cancer by functioning properly, they're dismissed, or worse yet, criticized for taking "too much risk".

Have we really given up hope on the amazing bodies that God designed, and the natural materials he put on earth to provide for and sustain us? I have not!

If you want a quick, possibly temporary fix from the medical community, most likely with additional side effects, there are plenty to choose from. If you prefer a longer term fix provided by helping your body to do what God designed it to do naturally, invest a little time in figuring out how you can modify and supplement your lifestyle to get the results that you desire.

Be blessed,
Tom

Scientific explanation of how Essential Oils do what they do

If you're interested in the scientific explanation of how Essential Oils (EOs) do what they do, this article does a great job of explaining it.  Here are a few excerpts I took from the article:

• The current review indicates that EOs and their constituents act by multiple pathways and mechanisms involving apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, antimetastatic and antiangiogenic, increased levels of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (ROS/RNS), DNA repair modulation, and others to demonstrate their antiproliferative activity in the cancer cell.
• Among plant derived compounds, essential oils (EOs) from aromatic plants have been reported to possess anticancer properties [10, 11]. EOs have also been reported to improve the quality of life of the cancer patients by lowering the level of their agony [12].
• The lipophilic nature of these EOs enables them to easily cross the membranes of the cells and reach inside the cell. EOs are described as strong antioxidants [10, 17] and antimicrobial [18] and are in use for the management of severe diseases like cardiovascular [19], diabetes [20], Alzheimer's [21], cancer [22], and others.
•  EOs from different plants have been reported to have anticancer potential against mouth, breast, lung, prostate, liver cancer, colon cancer, and brain cancer and even in leukemia [23–28].
•  Antioxidant activity of EOs has been reported to be helpful in the scavenging of free radicals generated in the diseased state, leading to the cancer prevention
• EOs have potential to induce damages at the DNA level that drives the cancer cells towards cell death. This activity is especially harmful in cancer cells, while no such damage is encountered in the normal cells; this provides added advantage of using these EOs
• One of the peculiar properties of the EOs is that though being cytotoxic to cancer cells, these induce proliferation of the normal cells [88]. 
• Therefore, EOs inhibit the cancer cell progression and thereby showing anticancer properties.
•  EO constituents are potent in cancer prevention and treatment.

 I could have, and wanted to, include about 20 more points about how great Essential Oils but I'll let you read the article itself to get the bigger picture.  I hope you find something here that will prove helpful in your treatment, as applicable, or in your assistance to someone else that may be experiencing cancer.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4070586/

Have a blessed day,
Tom

Links to research on natural cancer treatments

Here are some links and terms that I've found helpful during my research of natural treatments for Cancer. I've highlighted some items that caught my attention, but please read these documents in their entirety when making your own decisions. Not all of the links are about prostate cancer and also include data on breast cancer, ovarian cancer, bladder cancer, and others.

By the way, it’s also encouraging to see that the medical community is also starting to realize that the body can heal itself (aka immunotherapy).  The problem is that they propose accomplishing that with drugs (which always seem to have nasty side effects).

http://home.ccr.cancer.gov/connections/2014/Vol8_No1/intheclinic.asp

http://www.cancer.gov/researchandfunding/progress/immunotherapy-using-immune-system-to-treat-cancer

What is Cancer?

Per the National Cancer Institute

Cancer is the name given to a collection of related diseases. In all types of cancer, some of the body’s cells begin to divide without stopping and spread into surrounding tissues.

Cancer can start almost anywhere in the human body, which is made up of trillions of cells. 

Normally, human cells grow and divide to form new cells as the body needs them. When cells grow old or become damaged, they die, and new cells take their place.

When cancer develops, however, this orderly process breaks down. As cells become more and more abnormal, old or damaged cells survive when they should die, and new cells form when they are not needed. These extra cells can divide without stopping and may form growths called tumors.

Many cancers form solid tumors, which are masses of tissue. Cancers of the blood, such as leukemias, generally do not form solid tumors.

Cancerous tumors are malignant, which means they can spread into, or invade, nearby tissues. In addition, as these tumors grow, some cancer cells can break off and travel to distant places in the body through the blood or the lymph system and form new tumors far from the original tumor.

Apoptosis:

The death of cells that occurs as a normal and controlled part of an organism's growth or development.

Frankincense

Also known as olibanum,1 comes from the Boswellia genus trees, particularly Boswellia sacra and Boswellia carteri. The milky white sap is extracted from the tree bark, allowed to harden into a gum resin for several days, and then scraped off in tear-shaped droplets.

Apoptosis in human cancer cells. - a great explanation of why the body doesn't just flush out cancer cells

Anticancer activity of essential oils and their chemical components - a review (Published Nov, 2014)

Essential oils are widely used in pharmaceutical, sanitary, cosmetic, agriculture and food industries for their bactericidal, virucidal, fungicidal, antiparasitical and insecticidal properties. Their anticancer activity is well documented. Over a hundred essential oils from more than twenty plant families have been tested on more than twenty types of cancers in last past ten years. This review is focused on the activity of essential oils and their components on various types of cancers. For some of them the mechanisms involved in their anticancer activities have been carried out.

Characterization of 3alpha-acetyl-11-keto-alpha-boswellic acid, a pentacyclic triterpenoid inducing apoptosis in vitro and in vivo  (Abstract, published 2009)

3Alpha-acetyl-11-keto-alpha-boswellic acid (3alpha-acetoxy-11-oxo-olean-12-en-24-oic acid, 1) was synthesized by a radical-type reaction using bromine and 3alpha-acetyl-alpha-boswellic acid isolated from the oleo-gum-resin of Boswellia carterii. 1D and 2D NMR (COSY, HMBC, ROESY) at 500 MHz were used for shift assignments and structure verification. The compound investigated is present in a herbal preparation extracted from Boswellia serrata oleo-gum-resin, it inhibits the growth of chemotherapy-resistant human PC-3 prostate cancer cells in vitro and induces apoptosis as shown by activation of caspase 3 and the induction of DNA fragmentation. In addition, compound 1 is active IN VIVO as shown by inhibition of proliferation and induction of apoptosis in PC-3 prostate cancer cells xenotransplanted onto the chick chorioallantoic membrane.

Frankincense oil derived from Boswellia carteri induces tumor cell specific cytotoxicity (Research Article, published Mar, 2009)

Frankincense oil appears to distinguish cancerous from normal bladder cells and suppress cancer cell viability.

Myrhh, fragrant resin with ancient heritage, may bear anti-cancer agents Press Release, published Dec, 2001

The myrrh compound appears to kill cancer cells by inactivating a specific protein, called Bcl-2, which is overproduced by cancer cells, particularly in the breast and prostate, the researcher says. Overproduction of this protein is believed to promote the growth of cancer cells and make cells more resistant to chemotherapy.

Boswellia sacra essential oil induces tumor cell-specific apoptosis and suppresses tumor aggressiveness in cultured human breast cancer cells (Abstract, published Dec, 2011)

CONCLUSIONS:

Similar to our previous observations in human bladder cancer cells, Boswellia sacra essential oil induces breast cancer cell-specific cytotoxicity. Suppression of cellular network formation and disruption of spheroid development of breast cancer cells by Boswellia sacra essential oil suggest that the essential oil may be effective for advanced breast cancer. Consistently, the essential oil represses signaling pathways and cell cycle regulators that have been proposed as therapeutic targets for breast cancer. Future pre-clinical and clinical studies are urgently needed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of Boswellia sacra essential oil as a therapeutic agent for treating breast cancer.

Frankincense oil derived from Boswellia carteri induces tumor cell specific cytotoxicity (published Mar, 2009)

CONCLUSION:

Frankincense oil appears to distinguish cancerous from normal bladder cells and suppress cancer cell viability. Microarray and bioinformatics analysis proposed multiple pathways that can be activated by frankincense oil to induce bladder cancer cell death. Frankincense oil might represent an alternative intravesical agent for bladder cancer treatment.

Acetyl-keto-beta-boswellic acid induces apoptosis through a death receptor 5-mediated pathway in prostate cancer cells (Abstract, published Feb, 2008)

Acetyl-keto-beta-boswellic acid (AKBA), a triterpenoid isolated from Boswellia carterri Birdw and Boswellia serrata, has been found to inhibit tumor cell growth and to induce apoptosis. The apoptotic effects and the mechanisms of action of AKBA were studied in LNCaP and PC-3 human prostate cancer cells. AKBA induced apoptosis in both cell lines at concentrations above 10 microg/mL. AKBA-induced apoptosis was correlated with the activation of caspase-3 and caspase-8 as well as with poly(ADP)ribose polymerase (PARP) cleavage. The activation of caspase-8 was correlated with increased levels of death receptor (DR) 5 but not of Fas or DR4. AKBA-induced apoptosis, caspase-8 activation, and PARP cleavage were inhibited by knocking down DR5 using a small hairpin RNA. AKBA treatment increased the levels of CAAT/enhancer binding protein homologous protein (CHOP) and activated a DR5 promoter reporter but did not activate a DR5 promoter reporter with the mutant CHOP binding site. These results suggest that AKBA induces apoptosis in prostate cancer cells through a DR5-mediated pathway, which probably involves the induced expression of CHOP.

Molecular targets for green tea in prostate cancer prevention. (Abstract, published Jul, 2003)

In cell-culture systems that employ human PCa cells DU145 (androgen insensitive) and LNCaP (androgen sensitive), we found that the major polyphenolic constituent (-)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) of green tea induces 1) apoptosis, 2) cell-growth inhibition, and 3) cyclin kinase inhibitor WAF-1/p21-mediated cell-cycle dysregulation.

My Prostate Cancer story

Hello,

My name is Tom Sexton, and this is my story of being diagnosed with, and how I’m dealing with, Prostate Cancer. I've always been relatively healthy, working out fairly often, but not consistently, not eating "too" badly, and occasionally taking my vitamins. On August 8th, 2014 I was diagnosed with Prostate Cancer, (adenocarcinoma).
 

I hope that my experience can benefit, and maybe even inspire others to put your faith in God and what your body can achieve naturally.  Genesis 1:27 says "So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them".  This scripture strengthens my belief that cancer is a condition that man has brought upon himself, and that our bodies, if allowed and assisted can actually repair themselves.


I am BEATING Prostate Cancer with faith and a lifestyle change, not surviving an organ removal, radiation, or some other form of medical treatment until the cancer comes back!! By changing my lifestyle, I plan to permanently remove Prostate Cancer from my list of concerns.

If you're wondering what caused me to take my Prostate Cancer treatment "into my own hands", here were some of my findings on the long term survival rate of prostate cancer patients:

Per WebMD:

Nearly 100% of men with low- to intermediate-grade prostate cancer ( the most common types) can expect to live at least five years after the initial diagnosis. According to the American Cancer Society, 91% of men diagnosed with prostate cancer survive at least 10 years and 76% survive 15 years. Since many men who get prostate cancer are already elderly, they are more likely to die from causes other than the cancer.

More than 90% of the time prostate cancer is discovered while it is either confined to the prostate gland or has spread beyond the prostate only to a small degree, referred to as regional spread.

Among the less than 10% of men whose prostate cancers have already spread to distant parts of the body at the time of diagnosis, about 31% are expected to survive at least five years.

My key takeaway here was the lack of a "survival rate" in these statistics. Of course, the "can expect to live at least 5 years after the initial diagnosis" didn't exactly give me a warm fuzzy feeling either.

A search for 'mortality rates for prostate cancer' finds the following on Cancer.org, dated 1/30/2015.

According to the most recent data, when including all stages of prostate cancer:

• The relative 5-year survival rate is almost 100%
• The relative 10-year survival rate is 99%
• The 15-year relative survival rate is 94%

I'm currently 47, with a 5 year old son that I'd like to grow up with (no comments from the peanut gallery), and a wife that I'd like to spend a LOT more time with.  These statistics didn't provide the solution I was looking for.

My History

My PSA has been in the 2's for several years (see pic below), but had jumped up to 4.07 on May 20. 2014, so we did a biopsy. On Oct 10, my PSA reading was 4.29. My biopsy included 12 cores, and revealed that my cancer is rated T1C, with a Gleason Score of (3+3=6) with 6 cores containing cancer. 

The cores were as follows:

Left side:

90%, 40%, 30%, 5%

Right side:

5%, 5%

My urologist indicated that it was a low grade, non-aggressive cancer, so I had some time to think about solutions, although he immediately recommended a radical prostatectomy (Da Vinci method), as I am young and would recover quickly, and “most likely” not have any side effects.

Although I've spoken with several people who are happy with the results of the Da Vinci surgery, I wasn't comfortable with the potential side effects (incontinence and impotence). I investigated many other recommended "solutions" (radiation, seeds, ablation, etc) also and still wasn't happy with the potential side effects.

I was also concerned that my Dr's way of determining whether the cancer had metastasized (ie spread) was to judge the "stickiness" of the nerve bundles as the surgeon pulled the nerves away from the prostate during the procedure. On that note, I got him to agree to prescribe a DCE-MRI (Digital Contrast Enhanced MRI). The MRI reading indicated that the cancer was local to the prostate.

I did a lot of research, and soon discovered that a growing community of folks believe, and have demonstrated that the body can heal itself, including cancer, if it's given the right assistance and conditions.

My wife and I had recently started using Essential Oils, and I learned that Frankincense and Myrrh are natural cancer fighters. About that time, I started supplementing my diet with external applications and internal consumptions of Frankincense, Myrrh, Wild Orange, and Grapefruit Oils.

My treatment for Prostate Cancer has been as follows:

• Fervent daily prayer for healing!
• In the morning with a small glass of the shake mentioned below:
  4 drops of each: Frankincense, Myrrh, Grapefruit and Wild Orange Essential Oils.
  I plan to cut back to 2 drops once I've determined that the cancer is gone.
• With each meal:  (all Vitamins from Nutrilite) Multivitamin + Omega3 supplement + Calcium + Vitamin D + Saw Palmetto + encapsulated EOs (Frankincense, Wild Orange, Lemongrass, Thyme + some others)
• Right before bedtime in a glass of juice:
  4 drops of each: Frankincense, Myrrh, Grapefruit and Wild Orange Essential Oils.
  I plan to cut back to 2 drops once I've determined that the cancer is gone.
• Strenuous exercise 4-5 times a week
• After exercising, I consume a protein shake including Nutrilite Chocolate Protein powder, 1 Clementine orange, 1 banana, 1/2 cup frozen blueberries, 1/2 cup strawberries, 1 XS Strawberry +  Burn energy drink  + a handful of spinach leaves + a handful of kale leaves.

During the first several months I also consumed Haelan 951 daily for about a month.  I'd take 4 ounces twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. This juice provides 5 anti-cancer compounds (Isoflavones, Protease Inhibitors, Saponins, Phytosterols, and Phytic Acid) that I feel are helping my body.

What I haven't done:

• Totally cut out sugar. I do limit my sweets, but have not cut back on natural sugar from fruits.
• Totally cut out red meat. I occasionally have red meat, including the occasional juicy steak.
• Totally cut out alcohol. I like a glass of red wine occasionally, and according to some research, the resveratrol is actually healthy.
• I didn't make drastic dietary changes, but did cut back on Diet Cokes.

I'm now in much better shape than I've ever been, I feel great and have lots of energy, and as of Feb 17th, my PSA has dropped to 1.68!

My PSA history is as follows:

2007:  2.55

2009:  3.1

2010 : 2.4

2011:  2.68 (this is where it started creeping up)

2012:  3.8 in Jan, 2.5 in Oct

2013:  2.86 in May, 3.8 in Nov

2014:  4.07 in May, (this lead to biopsy in Aug, which confirmed the cancer)

2014:  4.29 in Oct

 

2015:  Feb 17th    1.68!!!
2015:  Jun             2.11
2015:  Oct             1.72


The 4.07 in 2014 is barely above the "acceptable" range for my age group, but the gradual climb since 2013 prompted my Urologist to recommend the biopsy.  And I'm glad he did!

My next PSA test is in April, with a Dr visit afterwards to discuss the findings.  

I'm not claiming that any one of these things will "cure" cancer, but as I've read in many other cases, it's my belief that changing your lifestyle can allow your body to cure itself, and return to the way that God designed us (Genesis 1:27) [ ... in His own image].

I urge you to pray hard to see what God wants you to do, do your own research (contact me if you like at nopc@thomaste.com ), and know that there is growing evidence that the side effects of modern medicine and procedures can be totally avoided.


DISCLAIMER:  None of the information provided here is meant to be medical advice.  I've documented other sources of information that I've found, and my direct experiences, but do NOT guarantee that what I've accomplished will work for you.