The last time I posted was March 8, 2013. I’m sorry for that. That is one thing about cancer that no one can prepare you for โ you are never really ever right in the head again. I know, “How can you tell?” I know many of you are asking that question right now. Because of my transparency (at least until March 8) my open-book life has left open for all to see that I am, on a good day, not that right.
He ain’t right.
I love that we live in a place where you can say that about someone (or yourself) and people know what you’re talking about. A hell of a lot of water has gone under our family’s collective bridge since March 8. We lost two dear members of our family animal pack. Our Golden Retriever, Dixie, was killed by a logging truck and I buried her badly ruined body. I cried a gallon of tears standing there with a bag of lime and a shovel. By myself, because I wanted no one else to have to see the carnage that was once a beloved member of our family. That same week, Azrael (Azzy), who lived on our farm for at least 15 years up and left. She likely want off to die. Cats will do that. They want to spare the ones they love the trauma of their departure.
If you’ve noticed a tender spot in our latest issue of Columbus and the Valley on our stance on rescuing animals, you’d be right. We have recently rescued a beautiful five-year-old Golden Retriever we named Izzy and a big orange male cat named Garth. These new guys have joined our other inside cat, Zoey, and our only remaining outside cat, Furry Football, and the pack is back whole again. I lost the battle of having indoor cats. I thought (I just thought) I didn’t want them living inside. Jill was of the other opinion. She won that battle, but oh, so did I! The delicious goodness of being able to hug a sweet cat and to have them purr and look at you just like you were the one who hung the moon is therapeutic beyond any possible measure. Physical pain can absolutely melt away and emotional pain is soothed as if real medicine just kicked in. There is real healing in the eyes of a pet. In case you didn’t know that, you know it now.
That animal has chosen you to be its human. They are all in. They’re job is to be your best cheerleader. They’re unfailingly in your corner. Well, at least the dog is that way. I’ve really confirmed over the past few months that we actually work for the cats. They used to rule the world and they’ve never forgotten it. But believe me, if you don’t want your heart invaded, if you don’t really want to fall completely in love with a purring pair of eyes (and the occasional claw) don’t give a cat an inch! They are incredible animals, easy to keep, and impossible not to love, if you get to know them. For those of you who either don’t like or don’t know cats, you’re not living to your full potential. I hope one day you’ll come around and know what the rest of us fully-evolved people know.
One more thing about rescue animals. During this sad time of loss and subsequent discovery, Jill and I had the opportunity to visit on several occasions our Columbus Animal Care and Control Center. Wow, is all I can say! The people there are dedicated, kind and attentive. The animals are well fed, well cared for, clean and loved. I can’t say enough good things about our experience in adopting Izzy. Please use them if you’re thinking about getting an animal. But be warned, sit on your hands for at least one trip out there on Milgen Road. There are some sweet faces out there and they’re all saying, “please take me home!”
Now, for what you came here for, here is my belated health update. My last post (March 8) I reported that the daily 800mg Votrient dose was working. The almost 4cm tumor on my left adrenal gland had shrunk by about 50%. And two small tumors in Strainer (my remaining right kidney) were less noticeable. During our visit with Dr. Andy Pippas at the John B. Amos Cancer Center, he let us know that my scans of last week showed continued, significant shrinkage of the lesions. The adrenal nodule is only about 5-10% of its original size and the two small spots on Strainer are almost entirely gone! So, the white hair, vomiting, lack of appetite, sensitivity to the sun, itchy skin and chronic diarrhea now seem to be a small price to pay for stabilizing this cancer, giving me more life to share with my family and friends and more time to make my mark on a place that I love.
I have lost a frightening amount of weight. About 70 pounds, representing over 26% of my body weight, has come off due to the lack of appetite and my inability to keep food down. I’m meeting with Beth Bussey, a wonderful nutritionist at the JBACC, and we’re plotting to find foods I can eat that I can properly digest. The big thing is my appetite. I would slap the smile off Jim Morpeth’s face for a Country’s barbecue sandwich! But, I wouldn’t be able to eat it without an almost immediate refund. Recently, we stopped by the new Meritage on First Avenue in UpTown for lunch. Chef Ashley Simmons Parsi-Graciani goes to great lengths to whip me up a vegetarian delight that hits my sweet spot (whatever that happens to be in that given moment). More often than not, when I finally sit down to eat, the nausea sets in and I just can’t bear the thought of putting something in my mouth. It is really frustrating, and the dramatic slide of my weight is becoming a concern to my caregivers.
It is a shame that marijuana is an illegal substance. I left my marijuana doctor office today with a prescription for Marinol (http://www.marinol.com/). This is a synthetic rendering of THC, the active ingredient in marijuana. It should banish nausea and also stimulate my appetite. We’ll see. It is shameful that there is a naturally growing herb that could bring relief to people who are suffering with cancer, aids, glaucoma and other serious chronic conditions, and that we can’t legally acquire it. Boy, I never thought I’d be putting myself out there to be an advocate for legalizing marijuana. But I’m there, folks. It just makes me angry that this good medicine is out there, but I can’t have it. I’m not expecting to see much public feedback on this one, but I’m curious about what people think about my comments here on this volatile subject.
I’m going to weigh in here on another volatile subject. At least, some of the local media and the nutbags โ the regular 20 or so posters โ who have tried and convicted MY DOCTOR, Dr. Andy Pippas for a alleged boatload of billing infractions. I know the media has a job to do. I do that same job every day. But, I really don’t like the tone that so many people have taken against a man who has lengthened lives and provided healing to thousands. I had him look me in the eye today and tell me exactly what I needed to hear to expend whatever personal energy I can to be a loud, proud member of Team Pippas. I am walking around today because of his great care and the care of the members of his John B. Amos Cancer Center team. I’ll be happy to talk to anyone about my experiences under his care. But if you want to engage me and just run him down, I’ll cut you off at the knees.
I hope to be able to keep a steady writing pace. There is much good going on in our lives and it makes me happy to be able to share it. I’ve said a lot in this post. There’s more where that came from.
Brenda French says
Good to hear that things are going in a positive light for you and yours. In the French household LUCYPDOG is family. You can find our beautiful labs facebook page under Lucypdog. She has lots of friends and loves everyone. I will let her explain what the “P” stands for. I dread the day when she takes her final breath. As a nurse I was just sharing with someone today I have had the honor of being there when a life enters this world (working labor and deliver) and with many family members and strangers as they left this world. It is the circle of life, we are all going that way sooner or later. Thank God we have sweet,always glad to see us, never complaining, tail wagging animals to love us along the way.
Jan Venable Davenport says
Good news !!! Keep it going !!!
…….and now, if you could just convince that stinkin’ brother of yours that CATS are awesome ๐ ๐ ๐
Love you !!
Donna Gafford says
I adore your beautiful writing. Especially love it when it has such good news within it. I am thrilled. I thank God (literally) for the wonderful care you have received from Dr Pippas. I also am praying that your nausea abates and your appetite is restored. Love to you and Jill.
Missy Lott says
Hello Mike (and Jill),
So happy to see and read your post today. So sorry to hear about your pets, but happy that you have adopted two more.
I pray continually for you and your family. I’m so pleased to read about the tumor(s) shrinkage. PTL!!!
About Dr Pippas. My family cannot say enough wonderful things abou the doctor that helped my niece, Katy Carroll Moncus! And I mean physically as well as mentally. He is a great doctor and man! Praying that these VULTURES will find other prey soon.
God Speed Mike! I so enjoy your post. My prayer is that you continue to feel like writing and FOR WEIGHT GAIN! If only my mom, Marie Richardson and close friend, Waunette Winowich, could be here to cook you something good to eat. Yummmm, makes me hungry!
God Speed Mike!
A past Seale resident – now Auburn resident!
Missy Richardson Lott
Ruth Martin says
Mike, I am so happy for you and Jill. Thank you Lord for your mercy. Our Pearson’s MRI was very successful as well. Just waiting for the call to Duke University to begin his vaccine regimen. Loved seeing you and all the family at Julia Ann’s birthday celebration. Fun day with wonderful family!
Jim Thomas says
Mike,
You continue to amaze me with your good humor and resilience. Perhaps a pleasant shopping trip to California or Colorado might be in your immediate future. And what a story that would make.Continued success with your arduous treatment process. We think of you and continue to pray for your full recovery all of the time. You are by far the toughest guy I know.
Cyndy says
He’s BAAAAAACK! And SMOKIN’. Well, maybe not smokin’ yet, but soon. There is no reason on earth you shouldn’t have easy, legal access to marijuana. And if that ever happens, I hope you’ll remember who your friends are.
Tom Butler says
Mike,
Never under estimate the power of a rescue pet… Sigi is very flattered to have been included in CandTV.
But the real joy is the news of the shrinkage although the weight loss has me concerned as well… Wishing you and Jill nothing but good thoughts.
Delane Chappell says
Absolutely wonderful news! Just makes my heart sing!
As for the man (Dr. Pippas) and the JBACC team who is keeping me alive, I’m with you.
Peggy dozier says
Mike
Can’t tell you how happy I am. The news is wonderful!! Like you, I owe so much to JBAcancer center….( my life!!) and like you, I am outraged at the allegations against my oncologist ( dr. Bassett ) I leave the written word to you and I thank you so much for for being the advocate for those of us who don’t share your talent .
Again, I’m thrilled for the c u r e … ( yes, I’m claiming that for you) !! Keep “us”‘posted
Ramona says
Yay, yay, yay! I’m happy dancing for you my friend. Remember that I am your liberal sister…pot should be legalized. Period. Sending much love, friend!
Eddie & Nancy Reid says
No one who really knows Mike Venable can say that ” he ain’t right”. You are one of the most right people that we know. So wonderful to read about your good news, as we have told you so many times, God hears all the prayers that are prayed for you every day and he is answering as only He can.
On the Marijuana issue, you are right on. As you know Nancy’s brother is a Dr. and he has always said this drug could help so many people including his and Nancy’s mother concerning her Parkinsons. Wish our gov. would wake up on this issue.
So glad your animal friends are bringing you so much joy we would be lost without ours.
We love you and Jill,
Eddie and Nancy
Cindi Ludwig says
Mike,
Bob and I have wondered over these last few months how you are doing. I am thrilled to hear the good news about your cancer battle! I am saddened by the loss of your precious pets. I am happy to hear you have new animals to love and lift your spirits. You are amazing and we continue to lift up healing prayers for you.
Eddie & Nancy Reid says
No one who really knows Mike Venable can say “he ain’t right. So wonderful to read about this good news, as we have told you many times God hears all the prayers that are prayed for you everyday and He is answering as only He can.
On the marijuana issue you are right. As you know, Nancy’s brother is a Dr. and he has always said that this drug could help so many people including my mother in-law concerning her Parkinsons. Wish our gov. would wake up on this issue.
Glad that your animal friends are brining you so much joy, we would be lost without ours.
We love you and Jill
Eddie and Nancy
Carol Ann Kaplan says
It is always nice to see that you have written in your blog. Before reading it I already know that I will feel a range of emotions. This entry was no exception.
I am thrilled that your cancer is slowly dwindling.
I’m sorry about your recent losses. It is a terrible thing to lose our beloved pets.
Post pictures of your new family members often.
Love to you and Jill.
Blanche McIntyre says
Glad to hear that you’re doing well! When I met you at our Lakeside reunion last summer, I immediately saw how happy you make Jill. That’s often how I see folks – you can see their goodness reflected in the eyes of their family. I’ve kept you on our prayer list at All Saints’ Episcopal in Homewood, so we’re continuing to send prayers your way. And, as far as the marihuana issue, I think it is absolutely absurd that medical marihuana is illegal. Sometimes I cannot imagine why things are the way they are, and this is one of those. There is not one good reason that medical marijuana is not allowed. I hope things continue to get better and better. And, as far as the comments about your pets, my five dogs and one cat all agree with you. I have to give my husband, Gordon, kudos here. He came into my life as a one-pet kind of guy and he has been with me through pet ducks, ferrets, birds, etc. as well as the usual dogs and cats. My hobby has always been keeping freshwater fish in aquariums, and the poor man now has four tanks in our house. Tell Jill I said “hello” and keep us posted on your improving health!
Wayne & Frankie Lake says
Hi Mike and Jill,
We love you both and give God all the praise and glory for we know through Him all things are possible….we just have to keep the faith. We continue to pray for you without ceasing and look forward to your future updates.
Sorry to hear about your pets….they become our children….But thankful you have found new ones to love and call family. Thy truly lve us unconditionally!
Take good care of yourself and we hope you get your appetite back soon and can enjoy the foods you love. It will come.
Keep us all posted…we lve to hear from you.
Love and Prayers,
Wayne and Franke Lake
Betsy Covington says
This makes me happy, friend.
Di says
You know I am smiling at this post along with a few tears down my check! Love you both and thanking our awesome God! Cheers from The Outer Banks! See you soon!
Angela Ward Fox says
Mike,
I know that it is an amazing thing when our eyes are opened and we see the important simple things in life. A wife that lives you unconditionally, the right to a medicine that makes you become a healthier human being, the kindness of strangers, and the sweet feeling of a pet on your lap. God has lot’s of things he sends us here to learn and share with the world and I truly believe we choose these lessons for ourselves in order to help become more in his image. I personally have so very much to learn I am sure I will be back several more times. Loving the good news about the tumor shrinkage now if we could just fix that eating business. Keep up the good work and I pray that fake marigiwana stuff works. Hugs Angela
Wanda Farish says
So glad to read the good news, Mike! Sorry to read about the loss of your pets. That is so hard for so long! As for legalizing pot, all I know is that, if my son needed it for health reasons, I would get it for him. Legal or not.
The Rankins says
Thanks be to God! Such wonderful news for a wonderful person.
Bonita Cantrell says
Been with ya here for a while now on this journey. You continue to be an inspiration to me! Well wishes, thoughts, and prayers are still being sent in your direction. I’m in your corner! Keep the spirit & the fairh!!! I also love the truth! Thanks for being you!
Mary Starke says
I’m so glad that you’re blogging again–and that you feel like blogging. I’ve missed your wry sense of humor and your candid comments.
Lisa Kelly says
WOW, really good to hear from you…. It goes without saying that you and Jill and family have been in our prayers. God is good!
We are toooo excited to hear the great news about the cancer….. Pippas is one-of-a-kind by far. Sorry to hear about the pets, they are truly members of the family. If you guys ever come to Auburn/Opelika for any reason, we would never forgive you if you didn’t look us up!
Mary Tilley choi says
Mike…so sorry to hear about your dear Dixie and Azzy. Just broke my heart.
It is wonderful to read your writing again and even more amazing to hear your good numbers. I will continue to pray for you and Jill.
Also, I totally agree. Marijuana should be legalized for medical reasons!
God Bless, Mary
Katherine Haas says
I’ve been trying to tell this to people for years regarding what you said about cats. Everyone who says they hate cats and says they are not as loving and personable as dogs has never had a true connection with a cat. I love dogs too, but I have had cats all my life and always will. I feel like when you do achieve that understanding with a cat, it is somewhat of an accomplishment to be proud of. I communicate with my cat on many levels. Now I’m starting to sound like a crazy cat lady, SO…
Regarding your paragraph on marijuana: AGREED!
Sandy Gunnels says
Dear Mike & Jill, So thrilled to read this! I’m officially inviting y’all to my 70th birthday party and I expect all 3 of us to be there!
Re: your question about THC. I am definitely not for legalizing “street drugs” but when a medical use is discovered for said drugs, PATIENTS should be able to receive them by prescription. Oxycontin is a heck of a lot more dangerous(Georgia grammar)than marijuana but its great for patients who use it correctly. I would fight anyone who wanted to take it away from patients because there are knuckleheads out there who abuse it. Doesn’t make sense to me that THC is not available by prescription.
Love you!
Betsy Lawrence says
So thankful for your good report!
ginny anthony says
Mike and Jill,
what fabulous news!!! Richard and I are thrilled and continue to pray for your good health! Now, we must find a way for medical marijuana! Truly ridiculous that it is not available.
Love, Ginny A
Jo Ann says
Thanks to our wonderful God and we will continue our prayers and keep our faith that you will be healed. Dr. Pippas is a special healer with God given talents. Anything that will ease suffering and pain should be medically available to the sick.
All 4 of the dogs irresponsibily left homeless in our neighborhood are now important family members. They are always there with love and companionship. We feed 6, once stray, cats that have since been neutered and included in the refuge.
Keep up the fight things are sure looking up.
Tom says
Great news Mike, another miracle!
Grandin Eakle says
Mike,
I am glad to hear the tumors are shrinking… I will pray that you will find a way to keep your appetite whetted!! I understand your stand on weed but I am not sure what the answer is to that age old question! Cats are cool but my dog has said no to one as long as he is around.
Don’t get me started on the media. Dr. Pippas has brought so much good to this community. It is a shame that people are so ready to try and convict people in the public court of opinion now-a-days! I hope Dr. Pippas can withstand the onslaught.
Grandin
Stacey says
You are an incredible man and I am so glad that things are getting better for you.
Pat Daniel says
Mike,
So glad to hear that the report was good, that the tumors continue to shrink. Here’s hoping and praying that your team Pippas can help with the nausea and lack of appetite as well! I, for one, think it’s ridiculous that you cannot legally access marijuana! Some things just defy logic. Steve and I continue to keep you and Jill in our thoughts and daily prayers.