Merry Christmas

Merry Christmas

We had some exciting news before Thanksgiving. I went to see Dr. Larson for my three month check up which was also my one year anniversary of being lymphoma free. I'm now on every 6 month visits. For the most part my life is back to normal. It's taking a year to recover, but I'm doing almost everything I did before and then some.

I had some fun goals to meet before my one year anniversary being lymphoma free. One was to run in a half marathon.

On October 23rd Dena and I ran in the Mankato half marathon. My goal was to finish and I did that. Dena was a great sport and joined me in my training. Dena told me she's won't be running in a half marathon next year. We did a great job of planning some runs before the half, like running a bunch of 5K, 10K, and a 10 miler. My parents and Alyssa Gabrielson came to cheer us on. Alyssa, thanks for taking time off to cheer us on. I will say it was a lot of work, but tons of fun.

Me actually running during the Mankato half marathon. It was a hot October morning. Who would think you could actually wear shorts (or a running skirt) in October. We brought enough running clothes along for a week.

Bailey is back to my parents for the winter. Over Thanksgiving I was resting only to find out I had strep throat on Friday morning.

On Christmas Eve we went to my grandma's and grandpa's. Jake and Mel Nicholson were in town and they have a cute little guy for me to entrain.

Any of my cousins who missed Christmas eve. We have the normal picture of Grandpa to show. Yes we are singing and reading the Bible story of Jesus birth. And Grandpa's resting.

My hair is back. I'm able to get it up with out using bobby pins. My goal now is to grow it out and donate it to Locks of Love when it's long enough.

I wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

Anna

BIR

Since my last blog entry, Dena and I ran in the Lumberjack days 5K. Again I dropped a few minutes in my time. We had fun stopping for coffee and a little shopping after the race in Stillwater. Next year we might be up for trying the 10 mile.

The Lumberjack Days 5K was the same weekend as the Annual Tennant Family camping trip. It was fun going and seeing everyone. I was able to go on a bike ride. They have really nice trails at Baker Park in Maple Plain, MN.

After my dad was in Scotland for two weeks for work. He returned just in time to go to Brainerd International Raceway for the Lucas Oil Nationals. We went for the day on Saturday and had a great time seeing people and watching some good races.

This is a Ford Mustang that I would buy when I win the lottery. You can buy it directly from the factory, bring it to the track, and race it. It goes 8.9 to 9.0 in the quarter mile.

This is "Fast Jack" Beckman, a professional funny car driver, a fellow Lymphoma Survivor.

Ashley Force Hood, another funny car driver, at the ropes signing autographs.
We went back to have my picture taken with Ashley but she was already done.

Jason Line and Greg Anderson (both from Minnesota) racing in Pro Stock. Picture was taken from our seats.

This is my dad and Jason Line. Jason is from Minnesota and remembers my dad from his days of racing at BIR. He is telling my dad that he still has his old race car and he's bring it home to North Carolina. It's pretty cool that he remembers where he came from.

What I have been up to.

Right before the 4th of July I went to the doctor thinking I only had a knot in my left shoulder. It had been there about 4 to 6 weeks and 4 messages later it hadn't gone away so my dad talked me into going to the doctor to have it checked out. I was lucky to get in right away. I found out I had a hairline fracture in my left shoulder blade. There is not much they can do besides give me pain meds and that took me another week to go get some from the doctor so I could sleep. I was being a little stubborn. I'm done swimming for a while but I'm trying to do everything else. I'm still running. I still have the goal of running in a half marathon in October.

I spent the weekend of the 4th painting in Austin and at the lake.

On the Wednesday after the 4th, 3M (where Dena works) has a fun 5K run. Dena, my dad, and I have run the race before. This year Steve Feeney and Tom Mathews joined us. They came back and finished with me. I had this year's personal best in the race.

Joshua Nicholson got married July 10th to Abby. Joe came home from Wales for the wedding. It was the first time I have seen him since he left. Joe you finally made the blog. Aren't you lucky. (From L to R: Anna, Grandma Wetterlund, Joe Nicholson, Cindy Wetterlund, and my mom Carol)

This past Saturday my dad and I went back to Austin to do some more painting at my grandma's house. We are almost done painting. But while we were gone we had a storm. The pictures below are of the storm damage we had at home in Ham Lake. We are very lucky we had no structual damage just trees. Just a good Sunday afternoon of cleaning up the branches.

This weekend I'm running in the Lumberjack 5K (one of my favorite 5Ks) and it's the annual camp out for the Tennant family.

Have a great rest of the week
Anna

Relay for Life

Sandy (Co-Chair of the Anoka Area Relay for Life) and I

Me speaking at the Relay for Life (I was Honorary Chair giving my Survior's Story)

In line at the Survivor Lap

Here is my Speech

I was first diagnosised with melanoma on my left caft muscle 14 years ago. I was very lucky to have surgery and then go on living my life as a normal invincible 21 year old. Then 13 years later I was diagnosised with Hodgkin’s lymphoma, this time I was still very lucky given a 95 % cure rate. When I was first diagnosised a friend told me God only gives you what you can handle and you have the strength to handle this. I also think that a positive attitude and being a little stubborn helped in my treatments.

When I first found out I that I had Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, my sister took it upon herself to go to the doctor with me and is still going to the oncologist with me on my 3-month visits. I really think it’s because my doctor is very entertaining. When I was in chemo someone always went with me, my parents, my sister, or one of my friends.

Before my first treatment while in the waiting room at the Cancer Center I saw Julie Benson a swimming mom in for treatment. It’s amazing how much one person's presence can help calm someone. Julie also gave me words of wisdom from her experience.

I'm amazed with all the words of encouragement, and generosity people have shown. I'm must say this wasn’t easy but it's a lot easier with the support that others gave me.

During a pre shaving hair cut, I was in the hairstylist chair telling her I wasn’t going to spend my money on a wig. I was going to be a hat and big earring girl (thanks to a cousin for the earring collection) when I lost my hair. She told me to call the Cancer Society and I could get a wig from them. It was fun trying on different wigs and trying to figure out my new look. I also took the Look Good, Feel Better class which was so much fun. Not only getting tons of new make up but also being with women who had gone through different cancers and were in different stages of cancer treatment.

I also took advantage of the Neighbor to Neighbor program at Unity Hospital. I was able to get massages, healing touch. Pilate’s from Pilates on the Porch by far my favorite. I wasn’t able to do much for exercise during my treatment so that made me feel like I was doing something.

Other then some respiratory problems I didn’t have any major problems with my chemo or radiation. On November 20^th I was told I was lymphoma free and I could get my life back to normal. It’s a new normal I can’t do 100 things on one day but I can still do a lot of things with a nap in the mix. I also had all exercise restrictions removed. I will say my dad wasn’t overly impressed with the doctor the day he said I could start running with no limits. I’m not back to where I was physically but I’m getting there in time. I have a goal of running a half marathon in October. I have been lucky to run with my dad, sister or a friend. They are super good to me and don’t let me go run by myself and are helping me reach my goals.

This Saturday, I and some awesome co-workers made a road trip to Tracy Minnesota to see a co-worker get married.

Elisabeth with the lovely flowers her friends from Community Ed made.

Bryan, Elisabeth, Tricia, and myself

Things I have learned

About a week ago Dena and I met with Dr. Larson. Everything looks good, no change. The scar tissue in my lung hasn’t changed so they figure it will always be there. So another 3 months off from doctor visits.

Last weekend we had my grandma’s estate sale. Lets just say it interesting what people are looking for and what they are willing to pay for. My mom, Dena, and I helped my dad during the sale.

This week I met with a Nutrition Educator to see if that could help with my fatigue. Here are a few things I learned.

She pointed out to me that I have lost over 40 pounds since I finished chemo and radiation. That averages out to 1.8 pounds a week. Let’s just say she was impressed. I guess the walking, running, kickboxing, swimming, and trying to eat better has paid off.

I’m not getting enough calcium. I’m getting about half of what I need. One thing calcium does is helps activate enzymes needed to convert food to energy. So she suggested I take a calcium pill (I’m not sure how I feel about that) and also try and eat lite yogurt, lowfat cheese, and I can have a small non-fat latte everyday.

The next thing is I need to eat more protein. I’m getting about half the amount of protein I need. Some ways she suggested that I help increase my protein is to add edamane (soy beans) into my soups and salads. (I guess I should try the Trader Joes brand) which is about 14 grams of protein per ½ cup. I should also try Boca Soy Burgers with about 18 grams of protein per burger. I can also add more cheese to my salads, soups, and onto vegetables. I should eat more egg whites, they only have 20 calories with 6 grams of protein per one egg white. I need to strive for 82 grams of protein a day.

On that I didn’t know (or look up) note, I really like Caribous Very Berry 7 grain oatmeal. It has 460 calories so that’s maybe not the best choice for breakfast. But it is good and I can have it once in a while.

I need to work on keeping better track of my food and write a food journal. I’m not very good at keeping up with my food journal.

This summer I decided I could give softball another try. I haven’t played in about 10 years. So I’m subbing on a co-ed team. The last two times I was asked to play that games where rained out.

Exciting things coming up

Saturday June 5^th Dena and I are running in the Monica Jensen 5K for the Monica Jensen Foundation which is a charitable non-profit organization whose purpose is to raise awareness, educate, and provide funding for research and treatment of Melanoma. Both Dena and I have had melanoma. http://www.monicajensenfoundation.org/

Also Friday June 25th I will be giving the survivor speech at the Anoka Relay for Life. I don’t know what I’m going to say yet but I have some time. http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR?pg=team&fr_id=22974&team_id=583042

Have a safe and happy Memorial Day weekend.

Anna

Happy Birthday Bryan and 5K

Bryan Happy Birthday.
He's trying to explain something to us.
My Dad, Dena and I ran in a Cinco de Mayo 5K today
Pre-race picture
Yes I do actually run. (in the gray shirt)My dad and Dena went back to finish with me.
I dropped 3 minutes off my last 5K in April.
Not where I was, but I'm getting better.

Happy May Day

Ross and Jeanine

Chris and Anna (Dena was out of town for work).

Happy May Day now summer can begin.

Last weekend we celebrated the marriage of Ross and Jeanine (one of my dad's cousins). It was fun seeing family since most of the time it's for Funerals or Weddings. My dad's family has had a lot of funerals in the last few years. It was fun dancing the night away. I also got to share chemo/radiation/ recovery stories with one my cousins. Who suggested I go see a nutrientiets to see if that could help with my fatigue. He's also surprised on what I can do and how much I can do today.

Also last weekend I went to a wine tasting at Wine Styles in Champlin http://www.winestylesstore.com/ with a group of Community Education people. I was really fun. I'm not much of a wine drinker and they did a good job of not only having us taste wine but educating us on wines and what to look for.

On Thursday night I went to a Leukemia and Lymphoma Society banquet. We heard from a doctor who works at Childrens Hospital and does research. This summer one of my friends is hoping to take a group in to get a tour of his research lab. That will be pretty cool to see.

I will say I'm tired after this past week. I had lots of meetings at work that interfered with my nap time so I wasn't able to get my normal naps in. I have spent quailty time this weekend sleeping so far.

I'm also working on finding a sunscreen that I can wear without getting a rash from wearing it. I'm hoping to find something soon that works since I'm at a great risk for Melanoma which I had before radiation.

I'm also excited to be back to getting the boys on the bus after being off for 6 weeks. Now I'm just going out to their house on Thursday which just happened to be treat (donut) day for the boys.

Have a Great May Day
Anna

Spring Break is over

It's been a while since I last updated. I'm getting really bad at updating my blog.

I had a crazy Spring Break this year, it was Wednesday to Tuesday. It was nice having a week off, but it was a busy week. I started the vacation by going to the Minnesota Zoo for a sleepover with 50 4th and 5th graders. It was a good time with a lot of learning time for them. We got to the zoo around 5:00pm and they were learning about dolphins and the other aquatic animals until 10:30pm. It was a long day for the kids. Wednesday I went to the Wild game with my little friend Alex. It was fun seeing the game through his eyes also the importance of snacks. Thursday the whole family went down to Austin to help my dad and Auntie Patty clean out my grandma's house. I will say and my aunt may hurt me next time she sees me but I was upstairs at my grandmas and my aunt was talking downstairs and I told Dena she sounds just like Grandma Gabrielson but don't tell her. We had fun giving my aunt a heart attack when we were moving the stove from the basement. Friday I went to a movie called the Diary of a Wimpy Kid. I can't say it was good or bad but the kids at school really like it. We also had some family over to see my aunt before she left. Saturday, I actually ran in a 5K. My goal was to finish which I did. I can't believe how good it feels to run again. Sunday of Spring Break was Easter, it was nice spending time with family. Monday was my day of cleaning and resting. My last day of break I went to lunch with Joshie (one of the boys I used to get up in the morning). It was fun seeing him and his friends.

This past weekend Dena, cousin Mary, and myself hosted a Bridal Tea Party for our cousin Jeanine who got married in February. It was fun meeting Ross's family and seeing Mary. Sunday I meet some girls from the pool and their babies for brunch at Oak City http://oakcitymn.com/

Now I'm back to work and life is back to normal or my new normal. I'm still running and try to swim a little. I'm throwing the idea of doing a 1/2 marathon before the end of the year and maybe a sprint triathlon in August. My parents keep telling me to be practical and don't get my hopes up to high and that I need to listen to my body. It's also been nice that I haven't had to to go the doctor in a month and I still don't have to go until May.

Finally

The snow is finally gone. I was able to go on all the planned ski trips with the kids. I ended the year with 4 broken arms, 2 minor head injuries, and 1 major wipe out by the advisor (that's yours truly) with all that said it wasn't a bad year.

One of my favorite things about teaching swimming lessons is when the kids do something new and really like it. Yesterday we had the last day of swimming lessons for this session and lifejacket day all in one. Finally one of the girls who I have had all year went off the diving board by herself and wanted to go some more. It's so cool to see their excitement of their accomplishments.

Since I'm done skiing, one of my friends kids had her day of fun with me. We went to the Mall of America to Underwater World. I haven't been there in a long time so it was fun seeing it through the eyes of a four year old.

I have also been running with a friend 3 days a week, usually in the morning. We have been following the Coach to 5k plan. http://www.coolrunning.com/engine/2/2_3/181.shtml We have finished week 6. I signed up for my first 5K in over a year and a half. Dena and I are running next Saturday in the Running Opener. You are welcome to join us if you are a runner. http://finalstretch.com/races/running_opener/Info.html I must say I'm very excited to run again. My goal is just to finish.

This morning I finally got my hair colored. I can't tell you how great it feels. One picture is from yesterday (teal is taken by a four year old) and the other one is from today. Dena, you finally have your picture of my hair.

Tomorrow, Aunt Pat (aka Auntie Patty) comes to town to help with the fun job of cleaning my grandma's house out or bonding with her brother.

On Wednesday I start my spring break but first I have my annual Minnesota Zoo Overnight with 50 4th and 5th graders on Tuesday. I'm hoping they decided they need some sleep, because I really like to sleep. I have my week planned with some fun stuff, a Wild game, trip to grandma's to help clean, a trip to the movies, a 5K to run, lots of seeing friends and family, and some time for some relaxation.

Until next time
Anna

Clean Bill of Health

First and foremost Dena is requesting I update my blog. She is tired of being my last blog entry.

On the health note, I received a "CLEAN CLEAN" bill of health on Monday afternoon. It was exactly 1 year and 4 days after I was diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma. What a year it has been. I have been very blessed with a great support system especially my parents and sister, a number of friends, and especially the boys in the morning. The boys were more then amazing with me. Not once did they care if that I was sick because to them I was always just Anna. To them I'm very blessed to have them in my life. Also at the doctors appointment I found out I can color my hair. Watch out world the color change will come in March.

A few other things I learned is how much fun it was to wear hats and a great pair of BIG earrings. I saved so much time in the morning.

On the fun note, one of our cousins got married in Mexico followed by an awesome reception in Rochester in January. You can't beat a dessert reception and a reason to dress up.

I also have been skiing a few times. I'm loving all the snow especially when it comes to skiing. I'm not really liking the shoveling. The house I'm staying at has the longest driveway in the world.

Tonight we celebrated Jessica (my sister in-law) birthday. Bryan, Jessica and the kids came over for dinner and ice cream cake.

Have a wonderful week
Anna

Happy Birthday Dena

Today is my sister Dena's Birthday. Dena has been one of my main supporters. Without question, she was at many of my chemo treatments and doctors appointments. I actually think she likes going to the doctor with me. I have a pretty entertaining doctor. She also makes sure I answer the doctors questions correctly and asks the right questions. We have spent quality time together this last year. I think I even turned her on to my favorite part of the morning, Kathie Lee & Hoda. Dena is also one of my proof readers so who knows what this will actually look like later. Thanks Dena and Happy Birthday.

Each week for me things are gets better and better. I was able to ski on Friday night with the kids and kickboxing on Saturday morning. This morning I went for a run/walk with a friend. I'm only hoping I can move in the morning. It's so nice to be active again and driving everyone else around me crazy because I'm willing to try everything.

And the Vikings had a great win this afternoon.

Happy Birthday Dena
Have a great week!!
Anna

Happy New Year

I hope everyone had a Merry Christmas and safe and Happy New Year.

Since my last blog things have gotten back to normal. Each week things get better and better. My dad will tell you that each week I get more and more stamina. I’m hearing less and less 'do you really need to do that?' Watch out world here I come!

Also, I never knew how entertaining watching hair grow is to some people. People are frequently touching or commenting on my hair.

One of the most exciting things is right before Christmas, Adam , one of my cousins, celebrated his 5th year cancer free. Adam has been lucky enough to answer my crazy questions through treatment and he more then understands what I have gone through. He’s one of a few people that hasn’t told me to slow down. Many people don’t understand what it’s like to be inactive for so long especially when I was so active before. We both got awesome Christmas presents.

I was able to go skiing with the ski club kids right before break (I had 12 days off for Christmas) and then Rolly, one of my cousins, and I went up to Spirit Mountain to go skiing. Spirit is one of my favorite places to ski in Minnesota. We went at night so it was actually pretty slow and we didn’t have to wait for the chairlifts very long.

Over my Christmas break I met my goal of not being home and trying to find stuff to do. Here are a few highlights of my week. Minnesota had a nice Christmas snowstorm and what fun it was to shovel the driveway. I am my dad’s daughter and I like having a clean driveway.

Christmas was three days long after it was all said and done. The picture of Jakob is one of my favorites from Christmas, he is pretending to be a present. The girls at the pool had a little gathering (thanks for hosting us Cathy). Not having to work, I made my biweekly trip to the Shortstop to hang out. It was wonderful seeing the Symen's family.

I went to Austin with my dad, he makes a trip to about every other week or so, to get the mail, check on the house, and work on projects. I basically supervised and helped him get some things ready for the Salvation Army. He did stop at Our House (one of the places my grandma stayed at) and got the last picture of Grandma, Dena, and myself. I also stopped at Grandma’s (Wetterlund) one day for lunch. She made our favorite Potato Dumplings followed by an afternoon of sledding.

The other exciting thing that I did during break is I finally set up my own facebook page. The pool girls, family and friends have been giving me a hard time for a while so I finally took the leap and did it.

I’m now wishing I was still on break, I didn’t get my list of stuff done or praying for a snow day. I’m also trying to decide if I should adventure and do a half marathon with a friend late spring or early summer.